Which travel adapter do you need when using a curling iron in Myanmar?

Myanmar power outlet

Summary

Check that your curling iron can work in Myanmar:

If not then:

  • Use a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] - you may still need to use the correct power adapter for Myanmar but these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for travel.
  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing curling iron and other applicances with a 230 volt Myanmar power outlet, however this is substantially heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel curling iron. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but won't change the actual shape of the plug on your curling iron to fit in the types of power outlet used in Myanmar, so please check that the power converter includes a suitable power adapter for Myanmar otherwise you will need to purchase another power adapter. Note that your own existing curling iron might not be suitable for travelling and you risk potential damage in transit. [11] [AD]
Warning: If your curling iron won't handle 230 volts used in Myanmar you run a risk of damage to your curling iron, an electrical fire hazard or a blown fuse. Prior to using your curling iron in Myanmar please read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a curling iron in Myanmar

Will my curling iron work in Myanmar?

This depends on if your curling iron can handle the 230 volt power outlets used in Myanmar:

Myanmar power outlets and plug sockets

What is the electrical frequency used in Myanmar?

The frequency in a Myanmar power outlet is 50Hz. [12]

What mains voltage is used in Myanmar?

Power outlets in Myanmar are 230 volts.

Which travel adapter do you need to bring to use a curling iron in Myanmar?

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

  • Plug Type C - This unearthed power outlet, technically called the Europlug, can be recognised by 2 circular holes next to each other for live and neutral pins.
  • Plug Type D - This plug outlet, technically called a type D power outlet, looks like 3 round holes in a triangular configuration for live, neutral and earth.
  • Plug Type F - This sunken circular power socket (also called the Schuko plug or type F power outlet) can be identified by the two circular holes 19 mm apart from each other where the twin pins slide into and a pair of thin grounding clips above and below.
  • Plug Type G - This plug outlet, technically called a type G power outlet, looks like 3 vertical holes forming a triangle pattern.

A suitable travel adapter to bring to use a 230 volt curling iron in Myanmar is a Type G plug adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of using a curling iron in Myanmar. Please note that unless you that have a dual voltage curling iron you might also have to bring a power converter.  [10] [13] [AD]

Which travel adapter do you need to bring to use a curling iron in Myanmar?

Dual voltage curling irons

Is my curling iron dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your curling iron supports a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug or the handle of your curling iron. The location might vary depending on the make and model of your curling iron and should also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage curling irons might change automatically but other models will feature a button 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 Myanmar then you should be able to use your curling iron with a Myanmar 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 Myanmar power outlet falls within the range shown on your curling iron then you should be able to use it in Myanmar.
  • Dual voltage will say a larger voltage range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your curling iron will be capable of being used in Myanmar or any other country if these numbers are shown.

Travelling to Myanmar with a curling iron

Can you carry on a curling iron in your luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for curling irons there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered curling iron in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA recommends that you should check that the airline which is flying you to Myanmar will allow curling irons onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft. 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 advices wrapping wires tightly around electronic items such as curling irons). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive curling irons in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against knocks and drops during your journey.   [14] [15] [16] [AD]

Is it safe to bring my curling iron to Myanmar?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage curling iron rather than packing your existing domestic curling iron to Myanmar as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Myanmar power outlet, provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Myanmar.

Please note that bringing your expensive domestic curling iron could put it at risk because of potential damage or loss in transit by an airline baggage handler in Myanmar. The costs of replacing an expensive specialised domestic curling iron in Myanmar could be higher than buying a cheaper dual voltage travel curling iron [2] . If you intend to pack your own curling iron in your luggage either slot it inside a boot or sneaker to protect from light damage, alternatively use a shockproof and heat resistant hot tools travel case which also allows the curling iron to be transported immediately after use without waiting to cool down.  [15] [AD]

Power converters for Myanmar

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

Voltage converter

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

An expensive and heavy power converter converts the voltage of 230 volts from a Myanmar power outlet to work with a non-230 volt curling iron, whereas a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your curling iron to fit into a power outlet in Myanmar. [11] [AD]

Do you need a power converter to use a curling iron in Myanmar?

The correct model of power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow your curling iron using a different voltage to work with the 230 volt power outlet used in Myanmar. Travellers wishing to bring their own curling iron can use a power converter, but it could be a lot cheaper to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel curling iron [2] than it is to purchase a power converter. Also, a travel curling iron can be noticeably lighter and smaller than a power converter making a travel curling iron more suited for travelling. [11] [AD]

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

How to power your curling iron in Myanmar with a 2 pronged Type C power adapter.

  1. Check that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply but if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions as you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your iron or blow a fuse. Some dual voltage curling irons might usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the iron ensure the switch is set to accept 230 volts; please refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on how to do this.
  2. You will need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4] if the shape of the power outlet which is used in Myanmar won't accomodate the plug shape of your curling iron. The Type C plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet used in Myanmar by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your curling iron to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Begin the process by plugging the Type C plug adapter into the power outlet. This ungrounded plug supply is identified by the two round holes adjacent to each other.
  4. Plug in the curling iron into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Myanmar power outlet.
  6. You can now turn on your curling iron in Myanmar. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Myanmar using a type C power adapter

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

How to power your curling iron in Myanmar using a Type D travel charger.

  1. Please check that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or works with a 230 volt power supply but if it doesn't then don't continue because you could damage your iron, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage curling irons typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the iron ensure you have set it to the 230 volt setting to use in Myanmar - consult the user guide for more information on how to do this.
  2. If the plug on your curling iron isn't the same type of outlet used in Myanmar you'll need to bring a Type D plug adapter [6]. This plug adapter is designed to convert different plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet used in Myanmar by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the curling iron to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Begin the process by plugging the Type D plug adapter into the Myanmar power outlet. You can identify the power supply by the three holes forming a triangle pattern.
  4. Plug in the curling iron into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Myanmar power outlet. The hair curling iron can now be used in Myanmar. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Myanmar using a type D power adapter

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

How to power your curling iron in Myanmar with a 2 pronged Type F power adapter.

  1. Check that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply; but if not then do not proceed as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your iron or blow a fuse. Before using a travel curling iron make sure the switch is set to accept 230 volts; please refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. You'll need to buy a Type F plug adapter [8] if the type of plug on your curling iron isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Myanmar. The Type F plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries into an electrical outlet found in Myanmar simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your curling iron to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Begin the process by plugging the Type F plug adapter into the power outlet. You can recognise this plug supply by the two large adjacent holes for live and neutral pins, plus two metal grounding clips on the top and bottom.
  4. Plug in the curling iron into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Myanmar power outlet. You can now turn on your curling iron for use in Myanmar. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Myanmar using a type F power adapter

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

A page showing how to use a curling iron in Myanmar using a Type G travel adapter.

  1. Ensure that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or works with a 230 volt power outlet - if not then do not proceed as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your iron or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel curling iron make sure the switch is set to accept 230 volts, please refer to the user guide to find out where this switch is.
  2. You will need to use a Type G plug adapter [10] if the shape of plug on your curling iron isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Myanmar. The Type G plug adapter helps fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet in Myanmar simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your curling iron to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Plug the Type G plug adapter into the Myanmar power outlet. This plug supply, technically called the Type G power outlet [9], looks like 3 vertical holes forming a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth.
  4. After that plug in your curling iron into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Myanmar power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on the curling iron for use in Myanmar. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Myanmar using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia entry about Myanmar
  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. 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..
  12. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  13. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  14. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for curling irons -
  15. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  16. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.