Using a curling iron in Niger

Nigerien power outlet

Summary

Check that your curling iron can handle the voltage in Niger:

If not then:

  • Use a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] - you may still need to use an appropriate power adapter for Niger however 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 220 volt Nigerien power outlet, however this is noticeably bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel curling iron. A power converter will change the voltage but won't change the physical shape of the plug on your curling iron to fit in the types of power outlet used in Niger, so please check that the voltage transformer has an appropriate power adapter for Niger otherwise you will need to bring a seperate power adapter. Be aware that your personal curling iron might not be suitable for travelling and you risk damage in your suitcase. [14] [AD]
Warning: If your curling iron won't handle 220 volts used in Niger you run the potential risk of an electrical fire hazard, blowing a fuse or damage to your curling iron. Prior to using your curling iron in Niger please check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a curling iron in Niger

Will my curling iron work in Niger?

This will depend on if your curling iron is designed to handle the 220 volts used in Niger. If you're using either a dual voltage curling iron or your curling iron can operate using 220 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you can use your curling iron in Niger. 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 do you need a voltage converter to use a domestic curling iron for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [14] [AD]

Niger power outlets and plug sockets

What is the voltage in Niger?

The typical voltage used in Niger is 220 volts.

What frequency is used in Niger?

The frequency found in a Nigerien power outlet is 50 Hz. [15]

Which plug adapter do you need to bring for using a curling iron in Niger?

There are six types of power outlets used in Niger, types D, A, B, C, E and F with the primary power outlets being type D:

  • Plug Type A - You can recognise this power socket by two thin slots next to each other for live and neutral.
  • Plug Type B - This power socket (technically known as a type B power outlet) can be recognised by the two slots next to each other for live and neutral blades with a single semicircular shaped hole below for the long earth pin.
  • Plug Type C - The power outlet can be recognised by two holes next to each other for live and neutral pins.
  • Plug Type D - You can identify this plug socket by three circular holes in a triangular pattern for live, neutral and ground.
  • Plug Type E - You can recognise this power socket by two 4.8mm circular adjacent holes next to each other along with one metal earth pin protruding the top in a triangle pattern.
  • Plug Type F - You can recognise this power socket by two large circular adjacent holes next to each other, plus thin metal grounding clips on the top and bottom.

A suitable power adapter to bring when using a 220 volt curling iron in Niger is a Type D power adapter; read the step-by-step guide below for full details of how to use a curling iron in Niger. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage curling iron you might also have to use a voltage converter.  [8] [16] [AD]

Which plug adapter do you need to bring for using a curling iron in Niger?

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 dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle or plug. This location might vary depending on the make and model of your curling iron, it could also state in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models will change automatically but other models will feature a button or switch which allows you to operate between different voltages.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage curling iron. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Niger then you should be able to use your curling iron with a Nigerien power outlet.
  • A small voltage range with a dash such as 100-120V also indicates a single voltage curling iron which can accomodate small voltage fluctuations. If the 220 volts used in a Nigerien power outlet falls within the range shown on your curling iron then you should be able to use it in Niger.
  • A large voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage curling iron capable of being used in Niger or any other country.

Travelling to Niger with a curling iron

Is it safe to bring my curling iron to Niger?

Bringing a dual voltage travel curling iron is preferable to packing your existing curling iron as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Nigerien power outlet, as long as you bring the correct power adapter for Niger. It is also worth concidering that bringing expensive domestic curling iron might put it at risk because of potential loss or damage in your check in luggage by a baggage handlers. The inconvenience and costs involved in replacing an expensive specialised domestic curling iron in Niger might overshadow the cost of purchasing a cheaper dual voltage travel curling iron [2] before your trip. If you intend to bring along your own curling iron in your luggage it is recommended to either slide it inside a boot or sneaker to protect from light damage, alternatively use a heat resistant and shockproof hot tools travel case which will also allow the curling iron to be packed immediately after use without risk of burning.  [17] [AD]

Can you take a curling iron in your carry on luggage to Niger?

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 also recommends that you should check that your airline who is flying you to Niger will allow curling irons onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft.

Packing the curling irons in a dedicated heat resistant protective hot tools travel case leaves it easily accessible for airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of power cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cables tightly around electronic items). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive curling irons in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the most protection against bumps and knocks during transit.   [17] [18] [19] [AD]

Power converters for Niger

Do I need a power converter to use my curling iron in Niger?

The correct type voltage transformer (or power converter) allows your curling iron using a different voltage to work using a 220 volt power outlet used in Niger. Travellers wishing to use their existing domestic curling iron can use a power converter, but it might be a lot less expensive to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel curling iron [2] than it will be to buy a power converter. A power converter is also substantially heavier than a travel curling iron making a power converter less suited for packing. [14] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A heavy and expensive power converter transforms the voltage of 220 volts from a Nigerien power outlet to work with a non-220 volt curling iron, but a more lightweight and cheaper power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your curling iron to fit into a power outlet found in Niger. [14] [AD]

How to use a curling iron in Niger using a type B power adapter

How to use a curling iron in Niger with a 3 prong Type B travel charger.

  1. Check that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or works with a 220 volt power outlet but if not then do not continue because you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your iron or blow a fuse. Before using a travel curling iron ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting - refer to the user guide for more details on where the switch is found.
  2. If the plug shape on your curling iron isn't the same type of outlet used in Niger you will need to use a Type B plug adapter [4]. The power adapter is designed to fit plugs from other countries into an electrical outlet used in Niger simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of the curling iron to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Plug the Type B plug adapter in the power outlet. You can recognise this wall outlet by the two thin slots parallel to each other where the plug outlet blades go with a single hole below for the earthed pin. Be aware power cords used with type B outlets which are rated at less that 240 V shouldn't be used so please check first.
  4. Plug in your curling iron into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Nigerien power outlet.
  6. The hair curling iron can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Niger using a type B power adapter

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

Instructions showing you how to use a curling iron in Niger with a Type C travel adapter.

  1. Please check that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or can work with a 220 volt power supply but if it doesn't then do not proceed because you could create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your iron. Before using a dual voltage travel curling iron which can toggle between different voltages make sure the switch is set to the 220 volt setting; consult the manufacturers instructions to find out how to do this.
  2. If the plug shape on your curling iron isn't the same shape as the outlet used in Niger you'll need to buy a Type C plug adapter [6]. This Type C plug adapter helps convert different plugs from other countries for use with a power outlet found in Niger by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the curling iron to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Start by taking the Type C plug adapter and inserting it in the wall outlet. You can recognise this power outlet by two circular adjacent holes next to each other.
  4. Plug in your curling iron into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Nigerien power outlet. Your hair curling iron can now be used in Niger. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Niger using a type C power adapter

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

A guide showing how to power your curling iron in Niger using a Type D power adapter.

  1. Make sure that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or works with a 220 volt power supply; if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions as you might damage your iron, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Travel curling irons usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the iron ensure the switch is set to accept 220 volts to use in Niger, please consult the user guide for more information on how to do this.
  2. You will need to bring a Type D plug adapter [8] if the shape of plug on your curling iron isn't the same shape as the power outlet which is used in Niger. This plug adapter will fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for a power outlet in Niger by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your curling iron to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Insert the Type D plug adapter into the Nigerien power outlet. The wall supply (sometimes known as a Type D power outlet [7]) looks like 3 holes forming a triangular configuration.
  4. After that plug in the curling iron into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Nigerien power outlet.
  6. Your hair curling iron can now be used in Niger. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Niger using a type D power adapter

How to use a curling iron in Niger using a type E power adapter

How to power your curling iron in Niger using a 2 pin Type E power adapter.

  1. Check that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power outlet; but if not then don't continue because you may create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your iron. Before using a travel curling iron ensure you have set it to accept 220 volts for use in Niger - please refer to the owners manual for more details on where the switch is.
  2. You'll need to use a Type E plug adapter [10] if the shape of the power outlet which is used in Niger doesn't take the plug shape of your curling iron. The power adapter is designed to adapt plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet found in Niger simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of your curling iron to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. First plug in the Type E plug adapter in the Nigerien power outlet. This sunken circular power supply can be recognised by the two large holes 19mm apart from each other for live and neutral pins and a long metal earth pin protruding from the top forming a triangular shape.
  4. After that plug in the curling iron into the Type E plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Nigerien power outlet.
  6. Your hair curling iron can now be used in Niger. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Niger using a type E power adapter

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

How to power a curling iron in Niger using a 2 pin Type F power charger.

  1. Make sure that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or can work with a 220 volt power outlet but if not then do not attempt these instructions because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your iron or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel curling iron which can toggle between different voltages make sure you have set it to the 220 volt setting, consult the manufacturers instructions to find out where the switch is located.
  2. If the plug shape on your curling iron isn't the same shape as the outlet used in Niger you'll need to use a Type F plug adapter [10]. This Type F plug adapter is designed to convert plugs from other countries for use in a power outlet used in Niger by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the curling iron to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Start the process by taking the Type F plug adapter and inserting it in the power outlet. This recessed round wall outlet, sometimes called a Schuko plug or Type F power outlet [11], can be recognised by two holes 19 mm adjacent to each other where the two plug outlet pins go and a pair of two grounding clips above and below.
  4. Plug in the curling iron into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Nigerien power outlet.
  6. Your hair curling iron can now be used in Niger. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Niger using a type F power adapter

How to use a curling iron in Niger using a type A power adapter

How to power a curling iron in Niger using a 2 blade Type A power charger.

  1. Ensure that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or works with a 220 volt power outlet but if not then do not attempt these instructions because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your iron or blow a fuse. Before using a travel curling iron make sure you have set it to the 220 volt setting - refer to the user guide to find out where the switch is located.
  2. This guide assumes that you don't already own a curling iron with a Type A plug - if it does then you won't need a power adapter (but please check that your curling iron can work with a 220 volt power supply). You will need to bring a Type A plug adapter [13] if the shape of plug on your curling iron isn't the same type of power outlet used in Niger. The plug adapter helps adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet in Niger simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your curling iron to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Firstly plug the Type A plug adapter into the Nigerien power outlet. This wall outlet (technically known as a Type A power outlet [12]) is identified by 2 slots next to each other for live and neutral blades. Please be aware that power cords with type A sockets which are rated at less that 240 volts should not be used so please check first.
  4. Plug in the curling iron into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Nigerien power outlet.
  6. Your hair curling iron can now be used in Niger. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Niger using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Niger Wikipedia web page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel curling iron
  3. iec.ch - Type B power outlet
  4. Type B plug adapter - A Type B adapter, rated at 15 A and 125 V, featuring two parallel flat blades and a longer grounding pin, in compliance with NEMA 5-15 specifications. Suitable for travel to the US plug types and Canadian plugs..
  5. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  6. 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..
  7. iec.ch - Type D power outlet
  8. 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..
  9. iec.ch - Type E power outlet
  10. Type E plug adapter - A CEE 7/5 socket and CEE 7/6 plug compliant Type E adapter designed with a focus on safety, featuring two round pins and an earthing hole. Ideal for use in the France, Belgium, Poland and several African nations..
  11. iec.ch - Type F power outlet
  12. iec.ch - Type A power outlet
  13. Type A plug adapter - A two-blade, ungrounded electrical plug adapter for US plug types, Canadian power outlets, Thailand sockets, Mexico plug types, and select Asian power outlets..
  14. 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..
  15. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  16. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  17. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  18. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for curling irons -
  19. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.