Which travel adapter will I need when using a curling iron in Turkmenistan?

Turkmen power outlet

Summary

First check that your curling iron can work in Turkmenistan:

If not then you can either:

  • Use a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] - you might still need the correct power adapter for Turkmenistan 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 220 volt Turkmen power outlet, however this is substantially heavier, bulkier 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 wall outlet used in Turkmenistan, therefore check that your power converter comes with a power adapter for Turkmenistan otherwise you will still need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Be aware that your personal curling iron might not be suited for travelling and you could risk damage in a suitcase. [9] [AD]
Warning: If your curling iron won't handle the 220 volts used in Turkmenistan you run a risk of a blown fuse, damage to your curling iron or even an electrical fire hazard. Before using your curling iron in Turkmenistan please check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a curling iron in Turkmenistan

Will my curling iron work in Turkmenistan?

It depends on if your curling iron is designed to operate using the 220 volts used in Turkmenistan. If you're using either a dual voltage curling iron or your curling iron is designed to operate using 220 volts and you have the correct power adapter then you'll be able to use the curling iron in Turkmenistan. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel curling iron [2]. Read our guide on will a power converter work with a curling iron in Turkmenistan for help deciding which option is more suitable. [9] [AD]

Turkmenistan power outlets and plug sockets

What mains voltage is used in Turkmenistan?

Power outlets in Turkmenistan are 220 volts.

What is the frequency used with a Turkmen power outlet?

The frequency found in a Turkmen power outlet is 50 Hz. [10]

Which travel adapter will you need to use a curling iron in Turkmenistan?

Type B, C and F power outlets

Which travel adapter will you need to use a curling iron in Turkmenistan?

There are three types of power outlets used in Turkmenistan, types C, B and F with the primary power outlets being type C:

  • Plug Type A - You can identify the plug socket by two thin adjacent slots next to each other for live and neutral pins.
  • Plug Type B - This power socket, technically called a type B power outlet, can be identified by two slots parallel to each other for live and neutral blades with a semicircular shaped hole below for the long earthed pin.
  • Plug Type C - You can identify this plug socket by two circular holes adjacent to each other where the two plug socket pins go.
  • Plug Type F - The sunken round power socket, technically called a type F power outlet or Schuko plug, can be identified by two large round holes 19 mm apart from each other and two thin metal grounding clips on the top and bottom.

A Type C plug adapter allows you to use a 220 volt curling iron in Turkmenistan - read the step by step instructions below for full details of using a travel adapter for Turkmenistan. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage curling iron you will need to confirm if you have to use a voltage converter.  [6] [11] [AD]

Dual voltage curling irons

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

A simple way to tell if your curling iron can support dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle or plug. This location might vary depending on the make or model of your curling iron and should also be written on the box. Some dual voltage curling irons can change automatically, however 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 Turkmenistan then you should be able to use your curling iron with a Turkmen 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 Turkmen power outlet falls within the range shown on your curling iron then you can use it in Turkmenistan.
  • A large range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage curling iron capable of being used in Turkmenistan or any other country.

Travelling to Turkmenistan with a curling iron

Is it better to bring your domestic curling iron or dual voltage curling iron to Turkmenistan?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage curling iron as opposed to bringing your existing domestic curling iron to Turkmenistan as it ensures that it will operate correctly with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Turkmen power outlet, provided that you use the correct power adapter for Turkmenistan.

Please note that bringing expensive domestic curling iron might put it at risk because of potential loss or damage in transit by an airport baggage handler in Turkmenistan. The cost and inconvenience involved in replacing or repairing an expensive specialised domestic curling iron in Turkmenistan might overshadow the cost of buying a cheap dual voltage travel curling iron [2] . If you intend to bring your own personal curling iron in your luggage either slide it inside a sneaker or boot 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 transported whilst hot without risk of burning.  [12] [AD]

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

According to the TSA guidelines for curling irons there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered curling iron in your carry on luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA suggests that you should verify that the airline that is taking you to Turkmenistan 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 when going through airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cables tightly around electronic items such as curling irons). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive curling irons in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against bumps and knocks during your journey.   [12] [13] [14] [AD]

Power converters for Turkmenistan

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

A power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow a curling iron using a different voltage to operate with the 220 volt power outlet used in Turkmenistan. A power converter is more suited for travellers wishing to bring along their own domestic curling iron, however it could be less expensive to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel curling iron [2] than it will be to buy a power converter. Also, a power converter is substantially bulkier and heavier than a travel curling iron making a power converter less suitable when packing compared to a travel curling iron. [9] [AD]

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 lightweight, cheap and small power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your curling iron to fit into a power outlet found in Turkmenistan, however a heavy and bulkier power converter will transform a 220 volt Turkmen power outlet to work with a non-220 volt curling iron. [9] [AD]

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

A guide on how to power your curling iron in Turkmenistan with a 3 prong Type B travel adapter.

  1. Ensure that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or works with a 220 volt power supply but if it doesn't then do not attempt these instructions because you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your iron or blow a fuse. Before using a travel curling iron which can toggle between different voltages make sure you have set it to the 220 volt setting - refer to the owners manual for more information on how to do this.
  2. You will need to use a Type B plug adapter [4] if the type of plug on your curling iron isn't the same shape as the power outlet which is used in Turkmenistan. This Type B plug adapter will help convert plugs from other countries into an electrical outlet found in Turkmenistan 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. Begin by taking the Type B plug adapter and inserting it in the wall outlet. You can identify the plug supply by two thin slots parallel to each other with a single semicircular hole below for the grounded pin. Please note power cables used with type B plugs which are rated at only 125 volts should not be used so please check first.
  4. Plug in your curling iron into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Turkmen power outlet.
  6. Your curling iron can now be used in Turkmenistan. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Turkmenistan using a type B power adapter

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

A guide showing you how to use your curling iron in Turkmenistan by using a two pin Type C power charger.

  1. Please ensure 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 don't continue as you may damage your iron, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel curling iron ensure you have set it to accept 220 volts for use in Turkmenistan, please consult the instructions to find out where this switch is located.
  2. If the plug shape on your curling iron isn't the same type of outlet used in Turkmenistan you will need to buy a Type C plug adapter [6]. This power adapter is designed to adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet in Turkmenistan 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 220 volt outlet.
  3. Start the process by taking the Type C plug adapter and inserting it into the power outlet. The plug outlet, also called the Europlug, can be identified by the 2 adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral.
  4. After that plug in the curling iron into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Turkmen power outlet. Your curling iron can now be switched on. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Turkmenistan using a type C power adapter

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

A guide showing you how to use your curling iron in Turkmenistan by using a two pin Type F power charger.

  1. Please make sure that your 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 continue because you may blow a fuse, damage your curling iron or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel curling iron which can toggle between different voltages make sure you have set it to accept 220 volts for use in Turkmenistan - please refer to the user guide to find out how to do this.
  2. If the shape of the power outlet used in Turkmenistan isn't the same shape as the plug on your curling iron you will need to use a Type F plug adapter [8]. This Type F plug adapter is designed to fit plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet in Turkmenistan 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 220 volt outlet.
  3. Start by taking the Type F plug adapter and inserting it into the power outlet. You can identify this plug outlet by two 4.8mm circular holes 19 mm next to each other where the two plug outlet pins go, plus a pair of metal grounding clips at the top and bottom.
  4. Plug in the curling iron into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Turkmen power outlet. Your curling iron can now be switched on. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Turkmenistan using a type F power adapter

See also

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