Recharging in places other than albergues?

[Anne100]

Many times when I've been hiking long distances in the U.S. I've used outlets in restaurants to recharge my phone. Can you do this along the camino?

 

[Deleted member 3000]

There are outlets in many bars and restaurants.

 

[Anne100]

Is it usually okay with the owners to recharge gear while you're sitting there? Having ordered food and drink, of course!

 

[Deleted member 3000]

I have never seen anyone confronted on the issue. Cell phones are ubiquitous these days, so owners probably don't mind a couple of watts of charging.

 

[Anne100]

Thanks, falcon269!

 

[Peregrina 2013]

Merchants have been very gracious wherever you are in Spain. It is highly unlikely you would be unable to charge your device(s). All you have to do is ask when necessary. ¡Buen Camino!

Ultreia!

Mary

 

[Tincatinker]

Charging phones and other devices is probably easier in bars and restuarants than in Albergues. There is likely to be less competition for sockets of which there are seldom many. But please do ask before you plug in. It's like using the servicios, no one is likely to refuse but it is polite to ask.

 

[Anne100]

Courtesy is a good thing. Thanks for the responses!

 

[rosco]

Is a special type of plug required to charge cell phones etc?

 

[Tia Valeria]

The charger for your phone and the adaptor to Spanish sockets - 2 pin round.

 

[rosco]

Thanks!!!

 

[Walking To Listen]

Just Curious! What type of electrical adapter is required in Spain?

Thanks,
Walking To Listen

 

[ffp13]

Standard European power sockets which provide 220 VAC @ 50-60 Hz, most modern power packs are capable of operating over a vast range of input voltages ie 110 to 250 VAC @ 50-60 Hz.

Be wary if you are using American power packs, some American manufacturers refuse to provide universal power adapters for multiple possible power sources other than 110 VAC @ 60 Hz, the input voltage range will be printed/embossed on the power pack.

 

[piogaw]

You can buy a us adapter to spanish socket cheaply at the china bazar in spain.

 

[David]

You could buy a solar mobile phone charger - they aren't heavy and only cost about £5 (in the uk)

Like this one - http://www.maplin.co.uk/solar-powered-mobile-phone-charger-223748

or this one for £18
http://www.maplin.co.uk/freeloader-pico--lightweight-solar-charger-354195

 

[SYates]

You could buy a solar mobile phone charger - they aren't heavy and only cost about £5 (in the uk)

Like this one - http://www.maplin.co.uk/solar-powered-mobile-phone-charger-223748

or this one for £18
http://www.maplin.co.uk/freeloader-pico--lightweight-solar-charger-354195

They do look like an interesting alternative, have you or anybody else here ever tested them in the field? Thanks, SY

 

[Deleted member 3000]

I have a medium quality solar charger, and it is useless.

 

[Walking To Listen]

Thanks passionate pilgrims for all your insights, feedback, and recommendations. I now have a better understanding of my options and what I need to purchase. Thanks Again!

Walking To Listen
Orlando, Florida