A weekend away is the perfect time to charge slowly and cheaply: the car is parked for hours, and you are not in a hurry. But a holiday rental is someone else’s property and electricity, so a little communication goes a long way.
Ask before you book
- Is EV charging allowed? Some hosts welcome it, some list a dedicated charger, and some would rather you did not.
- What outlet is near the parking? A normal 10A power point, a 15A outlet in the garage, or three-phase in a shed?
- Is the outlet weatherproof or under cover?
- How would they like you to pay? A flat fee per night or per session is simplest.
Many listings now include “EV charger” as an amenity, so it is worth filtering for it.
What to bring
A certified portable charger plus the right adapters lets you use whatever outlet is there. Our chargers come with a bonus 10A adapter, and adapters for 15A and other outlets are available separately. Set the charger to match the outlet, 10A on a normal power point, before connecting the car.
Charging etiquette
- Never use an extension lead or power board. Park closer instead.
- Keep cables tidy so nobody trips, especially kids.
- Don’t run big appliances on the same circuit while charging at full current.
- If the host is worried about load, set a lower current. You will still add plenty overnight.
- Unplug before you leave, and pack the charger back in its case.
How much will you add?
Over a 12-hour night on a 10A outlet you can add around 120–180 km. On a 15A outlet, closer to 170–270 km. That is often enough for a weekend of local driving without visiting a fast charger at all.
Paying fairly
A full night at 10A uses around 25–30 kWh. At typical household rates that is often under $10, so a small flat fee is fair to both sides. Use our savings calculator to estimate costs at different rates.
Frequently asked questions
Can I charge my EV at an Airbnb?
Often, yes. Always ask the host first and agree how to pay.
Is a normal power point enough at a holiday house?
For most weekend trips, yes. Overnight on a 10A outlet adds roughly 120–180 km.
What if the outlet is too far from the car?
Ask if you can park closer. Don’t use an extension lead.
Key takeaways
- Ask the host about charging, outlets and payment before you book
- Bring a certified portable charger and the right adapter
- Set the charger to match the outlet and never use extension leads
- A night on 10A adds roughly 120–180 km