Travel essentials for the Maldives
Adapters, plugs, tap water, tipping and health basics.
Power & adapters
Type D, G adapter required
The Maldives uses Type G, the UK three-rectangular-pin plug, with some older Type D sockets. The voltage is 230V, the same as Australia. Most resorts supply adapters, but do not count on it.
230V, 50Hz
Tap water
Not safe to drink
Tap water on local islands is not for drinking. Resorts produce their own desalinated water and it is safe - most now provide filtered water in glass bottles in the room.
Staying connected
Good across the inhabited atolls; resort WiFi is universal though variable in quality.
A local eSIM is worth it if you are island-hopping or want data on the boat between atolls. If you are staying at one resort, their WiFi is usually enough and Australian roaming here is expensive.
Compare Maldives eSIMsHealth risks
- Sunburn and heat - the equatorial UV index is extreme
- Diving and snorkelling incidents, including decompression illness
- Strong currents in channels between atolls
Emergency numbers in Maldives
| All emergencies | 119 police / 102 ambulance |
|---|---|
| Police | 119 |
| Ambulance | 102 |
| Fire | 118 |
| Australian consulate | Australian High Commission Colombo covers the Maldives - +94 11 246 3200 |
Tipping and everyday costs
Resorts add a 10% service charge plus 16% GST. Beyond that, USD $5-$10 a day for a butler or dive guide is normal and appreciated.
What screening will actually let you pack
Half of what goes in the bag is decided by someone else. What you can take on a plane sets out the Australian rules item by item - power banks, liquids, scissors, aerosols - and what has to be declared at the border on the way home.
More Maldives essentials
Further reading: Power adapters by country: what Australians actually need to pack
How these comparisons are made
Plug types, voltages and frequencies come from the international electrotechnical standards data for each country, stated per destination with what that means for Australian appliances specifically - what needs an adapter, what needs a converter, and what should stay home. Read the full editorial policy.
Maldives travel essentials FAQs
What power adapter do I need for the Maldives?
A Type G adapter, the UK three-rectangular-pin plug, with some older properties using Type D. The voltage is 230V, the same as Australia. Many resorts lend adapters but it is not safe to assume.
Can I drink the tap water in the Maldives?
Not on local islands. Resorts desalinate and filter their own supply and it is safe - most now provide filtered water in glass bottles in the room rather than plastic.
Planning Maldives?
We will send you the Maldives guide as it grows - what to book before you go, which eSIM and travel card are worth it there, and what things actually cost in Australian dollars.