Does anyone know if European rental cars, particularly ones in Ireland have cigarette lighters. I'm thinking of using the GPS on my iphone, but need to power it somehow and was thinking of bringing an adaptor.
Posted by
Sacramento, California U.S.A.
10222 posts
Yes, the power plug in cars are just like here in North America.
Posted by
Ann Arbor, Mi
3696 posts
There is also a device that you can plug into the lighter and it will allow you to use it as a normal plug and charge your computer, etc. off the car battery. I always have one in my car in the US and have taken one to Europe before if I was renting a car for a long period of time. Especially nice if you forget your adaptor. I got mine at Radio Shack.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32206 posts
Warren, All rental cars that I've used have been equipped with at least one 12-volt Lighter/Power outlet. For charging you can either use a dedicated iPhone Charger (I bought one at my local Cell shop, and always keep it in my car) or a more "universal" USB type Charger. I don't know what electronic stores you have in Castlegar, but larger centres like Cranbrook or Kelowna will have stores that sells items like that (or you could order online). As you're planning to use the GPS on your iPhone, I assume you've covered the aspect of data roaming, and EXPENSIVE charges? Happy travels!
Posted by
OP
Kelowna, BC, Canada
433 posts
Thanks for the replies. Ken, The app I use (IGO) doesn't require any network signal to work, nor WIFI and the phone plan I have (7/11-Speakout) doesn't work anywhere outside of Canada, so I should be ok. thanks
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32206 posts
Warren, It's good to hear that you've got all that sorted. I just wanted to mention it so you didn't get any "surprises" with your Cellular bill.