Using a curling iron in Bhutan

Bhutanese power outlet

Summary

Check your curling iron can work in Bhutan:

  • If your curling iron can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can check) then you will only need to use the correct power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your curling iron will not fit in the outlet.

If not then:

  • Use a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] - you may still need an appropriate power adapter for Bhutan but these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for the rigors of travel.
  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing curling iron and other applicances with a 230 volt Bhutanese power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel curling iron. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but not the actual physical shape of the plug on your curling iron to fit in the power outlet used in Bhutan, therefore please check that your power converter comes with the correct power adapter for Bhutan otherwise you will need to bring a seperate power adapter. Note that your personal curling iron might not be suitable for travelling and you could risk potential damage in your luggage. [13] [AD]
Warning: If your curling iron won't handle 230 volts used in Bhutan you run the potential risk of damage to your curling iron, an electrical fire hazard or blowing a fuse. Before using your curling iron in Bhutan please check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a curling iron in Bhutan

Will my curling iron work in Bhutan?

That depends on if your curling iron can operate using the 230 volts which are used in Bhutan:

Bhutan power outlets and plug sockets

What is the frequency used in a Bhutanese power outlet?

The frequency found in a Bhutanese power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]

What voltage is used in Bhutan?

Power outlets in Bhutan are 230 volts.

Which power adapter will you need to bring when using a curling iron in Bhutan?

There are five types of power outlets used in Bhutan, these are type G, C, D, F and M with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type C - You can recognise the power outlet by two circular holes adjacent to each other where the two pins sit.
  • Plug Type D - The plug socket, also called a type D power outlet, looks like 3 holes in a triangular pattern.
  • Plug Type F - You can identify this plug socket by the two adjacent holes where the live and neutral plug socket pins go and two thin metal grounding clips on the top and bottom.
  • Plug Type G - This power socket (also called a type G power outlet) can be identified by the three vertical rectangular slots containing shutters forming a triangular shape.
  • Plug Type M - The plug socket, technically called a type M power outlet, can be recognised by the three holes in a triangular pattern.

A recommended travel adapter to bring when using a 230 volt curling iron in Bhutan is a Type G plug adapter - read the step by step guide below for full details of how to use a curling iron in Bhutan. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage curling iron you might also have to use a voltage converter.  [10] [15] [AD]

Which power adapter will you need to bring when using a curling iron in Bhutan?

Dual voltage curling irons

How can you tell if your curling iron is dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your curling iron supports a dual voltage outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle or plug. The location will depend on the make and model of your curling iron, it could also state on the box. Some dual voltage curling irons will change automatically, however other models will have a button which allows you to change between different regions.

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

Travelling to Bhutan with a curling iron

Can curling irons go in my carry on luggage to Bhutan?

According to the TSA guidelines for curling irons there are no restrictions when carrying a mains powered curling iron in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA suggests that you should verify that the airline who is taking you to Bhutan will allow curling irons onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing your curling irons in a dedicated heat resistant protective hot tools travel case leaves it easily accessible for airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping wires tightly around curling irons). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive curling irons in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the greatest protection against bumps and knocks during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Is it safe to bring my curling iron to Bhutan?

Bringing a dual voltage travel curling iron is preferable to bringing your existing curling iron as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Bhutanese power outlet, as long as you bring the correct plug adapter for Bhutan.

Be aware that bringing expensive domestic curling iron could put it at risk due to potential damage or loss in your check in suitcase by a baggage handlers in Bhutan. The cost and inconvenience of replacing or repairing an expensive specialised curling iron in Bhutan might be more than purchasing a cheaper dual voltage travel curling iron [2] . If you intend to bring your own curling iron in your luggage it is recommended to either slot 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 packed whilst hot without risk of burning.  [17] [AD]

Power converters for Bhutan

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

Voltage converter

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

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your curling iron to slot into a power outlet in Bhutan, whereas a heavier and more expensive power converter will convert a 230 volt Bhutanese power outlet to work with a non-230 volt curling iron. [13] [AD]

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

A power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow a curling iron using a different voltage to work with the 230 volt power outlet used in Bhutan. A power converter is suitable for travellers wishing to use their own curling iron, but it might be cheaper to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel curling iron [2] than it will be to purchase a power converter. Also, a travel curling iron can be significantly lighter than a power converter making a travel curling iron more suited for packing in luggage. [13] [AD]

How to use a curling iron in Bhutan using a type C power adapter

Instructions showing how to use your curling iron in Bhutan with a Type C power charger.

  1. Make sure that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply but if it doesn't then do not continue as you may damage your iron, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel curling iron which can toggle between different voltages ensure you have set it to accept 230 volts to use in Bhutan; refer to the owners manual to find out where this switch is located.
  2. You will need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4] if the shape of plug used on your curling iron isn't the same type of power outlet used in Bhutan. This Type C plug adapter is designed to fit plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet used in Bhutan simply 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 outlet.
  3. Insert the Type C plug adapter in the Bhutanese power outlet. The power supply (sometimes called a Type C power outlet [3] or Europlug) is recognised by the two round holes next to each other for live and neutral.
  4. Plug in your curling iron into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Bhutanese power outlet.
  6. Your hair curling iron can now be used in Bhutan. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Bhutan using a type C power adapter

How to use a curling iron in Bhutan using a type D power adapter

A step-by-step guide showing how to power your curling iron in Bhutan with a Type D power charger.

  1. Please make sure that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet; but if it doesn't then do not proceed because you may create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your iron. Some curling irons will sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the iron make sure you have set it to the 230 volt setting for use in Bhutan, please consult the user guide for more details on how to do this.
  2. If the type of power outlet which is used in Bhutan doesn't take the plug on your curling iron you'll need to use a Type D plug adapter [6]. The Type D plug adapter will convert plugs from other countries for a power outlet found in Bhutan by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your curling iron to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Begin by taking the Type D plug adapter and inserting it into the Bhutanese power outlet. This wall supply (technically called a Type D power outlet [5]) can be identified by the three round holes in a triangle configuration for live, neutral and ground pins.
  4. Plug in your curling iron into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Bhutanese power outlet.
  6. You can now turn on the curling iron for use in Bhutan. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Bhutan using a type D power adapter

How to use a curling iron in Bhutan using a type F power adapter

Instructions showing how to power a curling iron in Bhutan with a two pin Type F power charger.

  1. Check that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply but if not then do not continue as you might damage your iron, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel curling iron which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to accept 230 volts, refer to the owners manual to find out where this switch is located.
  2. You'll need to bring a Type F plug adapter [8] if the type of plug used on your curling iron isn't the same type of power outlet which is used in Bhutan. This Type F plug adapter is designed to adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries for use with a power outlet used in Bhutan simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the curling iron to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Firstly you'll need to plug in the Type F plug adapter in the wall outlet. You can recognise the power supply by two large circular holes 19 mm adjacent to each other where the two pins slide into, plus a pair of two grounding clips above and below.
  4. Next plug in the curling iron into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Bhutanese power outlet. You can now turn on the curling iron for use in Bhutan. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Bhutan using a type F power adapter

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

Instructions showing how to use your curling iron in Bhutan with a Type G power charger.

  1. Check that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or works with a 230 volt power supply but if not then don't attempt these instructions as you could create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your iron. Dual voltage curling irons usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the iron ensure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting - please refer to the instructions to find out where the switch is found.
  2. If the shape of the power outlet used in Bhutan isn't the same shape as the plug shape on your curling iron you'll need to bring a Type G plug adapter [10]. This power adapter helps adapt different plugs from other countries for use with an electrical outlet found in Bhutan simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the curling iron to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. First plug in the Type G plug adapter into the wall outlet. You can identify this power outlet by the 3 holes containing plastic shutters in a triangle configuration for live, neutral and earth pins.
  4. Plug in your curling iron into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Bhutanese power outlet.
  6. Your hair curling iron can now be used in Bhutan. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Bhutan using a type G power adapter

How to use a curling iron in Bhutan using a type M power adapter

Instructions showing how to power a curling iron in Bhutan with a three pinned Type M power charger.

  1. Please ensure that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then do not continue because you may damage your iron, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel curling iron which can toggle between different voltages ensure you have set it to accept 230 volts to use in Bhutan; refer to the owners manual for more information on where this switch is located.
  2. You will need to bring a Type M plug adapter [12] if the shape of plug used on your curling iron isn't the same type of plug outlet used in Bhutan. This Type M plug adapter is designed to fit plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet used in Bhutan simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your curling iron to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Start the process by plugging the Type M plug adapter in the Bhutanese power outlet. You can recognise the power supply by 3 large round holes forming a triangle configuration for live, neutral and ground.
  4. Next plug in your curling iron into the Type M plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Bhutanese power outlet.
  6. Your curling iron can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Bhutan using a type M power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - wikipedia.org page about Bhutan
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel curling iron
  3. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  4. Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
  5. iec.ch - Type D power outlet
  6. Type D plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type D electrical adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka..
  7. iec.ch - Type F power outlet
  8. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  9. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  10. 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..
  11. iec.ch - Type M power outlet
  12. Type M plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type M travel adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in African countries like South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Swaziland, as well as in parts of India..
  13. 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..
  14. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  15. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  16. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for curling irons -
  17. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.