Which power adapter do I need for using a curling iron in Bahrain?

Bahraini power outlet

Summary

Check your curling iron can work in Bahrain:

  • If your curling iron can run on 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you will only need to use the correct power adapter listed below if the plug on your curling iron won't fit.

If not then:

  • Use a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] - you may still need a power adapter for Bahrain however these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for travel.
  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing curling iron and other applicances with a 230 volt Bahraini power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel curling iron. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but won't change the shape of the plug on your curling iron to fit in the types of wall outlet used in Bahrain, so please check that your power converter has an appropriate power adapter for Bahrain otherwise you will also need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Be aware that your own domestic curling iron might not be suitable for travelling and you could risk potential damage in transit. [5] [AD]
Warning: If your curling iron won't handle the 230 volts used in Bahrain you run the risk of a blown fuse, damage to your curling iron or even an electrical fire hazard. Prior to using your curling iron in Bahrain read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a curling iron in Bahrain

Will my curling iron work in Bahrain?

That depends on if your curling iron is designed to handle the 230 volts as used in Bahrain. If you're using either a dual voltage curling iron or your curling iron is designed to handle 230 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you'll be able to use it in Bahrain. If not then you will need to consider bringing either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter. Read our section on will a power converter work with your domestic curling iron in Bahrain for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [5] [AD]

Bahrain power outlets and plug sockets

What voltage is used in Bahrain?

Power outlets in Bahrain are 230 volts.

What electrical frequency is used with a Bahraini power outlet?

The frequency from a Bahraini power outlet is 50 Hz. [6]

Which travel adapter will you need to bring when using a curling iron in Bahrain?

The type of power outlet used in Bahrain is type G. You can identify this wall outlet by 3 slots in a triangle configuration. A Type G power adapter will allow you to use a 230 volt curling iron in Bahrain; read the simple instructions below for full details of using a curling iron in Bahrain with a travel adapter. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage curling iron you might also have to use a power converter.  [4] [7] [AD]

Which travel adapter will you need to bring when using a curling iron in Bahrain?
Get a plug adapter for Bahrain

Dual voltage curling irons

Is my curling iron dual voltage?

The way to tell if your curling iron supports dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug or the handle. The location will vary depending on the make or model of your curling iron and could also state in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models might change automatically, however other models will have a switch which allows you to operate between different regions.

  • Single voltage could say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Bahrain then you should be able to use your curling iron with a Bahraini power outlet.
  • Single voltage could also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 230 volts used in a Bahraini power outlet falls within the range shown on your curling iron then you should be able to use it in Bahrain.
  • Dual voltage will say a large voltage range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your curling iron will be capable of being used in Bahrain or any other country if these numbers are shown.

Travelling to Bahrain with a curling iron

Is it safe to bring my curling iron to Bahrain?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage curling iron rather than bringing your existing domestic curling iron to Bahrain as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Bahraini power outlet, as long as you use the correct power adapter for Bahrain. Be aware that bringing expensive domestic curling iron might put it at risk due to potential damage or loss in transit by airline baggage handlers in Bahrain. The cost and inconvenience involved in repairing an expensive quality domestic curling iron in Bahrain might outweigh the costs of buying a much cheaper dual voltage travel curling iron [2] before your trip. If you intend to pack your own personal curling iron in your luggage either slide it inside a boot or sneaker to protect from light knocks, alternatively use a shockproof and heat resistant hot tools travel case which will also allow the curling iron to be transported right after use without risk of burning.  [8] [AD]

Can curling irons go in your hand luggage to Bahrain?

According to the TSA guidelines for curling irons there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered curling iron in your hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA suggests that you should check that your airline which is taking you to Bahrain will allow curling irons onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing the curling irons in a dedicated heat resistant protective hot tools travel case leaves it easily accessible by airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cables tightly around curling irons). If you do intend to bring fragile or expensive curling irons in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the greatest protection against knocks and drops during transit.   [8] [9] [10] [AD]

Power converters for Bahrain

Do I need a voltage converter to use a curling iron in Bahrain?

A power converter (or voltage transformer) allows your curling iron using a different voltage to operate with the 230 volt power outlet used in Bahrain. Travellers wishing to bring along their existing domestic curling iron can use a power converter, however it can be less expensive to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel curling iron [2] than it is to buy a power converter. In addition, a travel curling iron can be substantially lighter and smaller than a power converter making a travel curling iron more suited for packing. [5] [AD]

What is the difference between a power adapter and a power converter?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a power adapter and a power converter?

A heavy and bulky power converter transforms a 230 volt Bahraini power outlet to work with a non-230 volt curling iron, whereas a more lightweight and cheaper power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your curling iron to slot into a power outlet in Bahrain. [5] [AD]

How to use a curling iron in Bahrain using a type G power adapter

How to use your curling iron in Bahrain with a Type G power charger.

  1. Check that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet but if not then don't proceed because you may blow a fuse, damage your curling iron or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel curling iron which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting for use in Bahrain; refer to the instructions for more details on where this switch is located.
  2. If the shape of the power outlet which is used in Bahrain isn't the same shape as the plug shape on your curling iron you'll need to use a Type G plug adapter [4]. The Type G plug adapter helps fit plugs on appliances from other countries for use with an electrical outlet in Bahrain by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the curling iron to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Begin by inserting the Type G plug adapter in the Bahraini power outlet. The plug outlet, technically known as the Type G power outlet [3], can be recognised by the three vertical rectangular holes containing shutters in a triangle shape.
  4. Plug in your curling iron into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Bahraini power outlet. The curling iron can now be used in Bahrain. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Bahrain using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Bahrain country Wikipedia page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel curling iron
  3. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  4. Type G plug adapter - An earthed BS 1363 certified UK power adapter, featuring a fuse to protect against overload and consequent fire risks. Ideal for use in over 50 countries, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and also in international cities like Dubai and Hong Kong..
  5. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
  6. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  7. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  8. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  9. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for curling irons -
  10. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.