The Cayman Islands power adapters - what plugs are used in The Cayman Islands?
What adapter do I need for The Cayman Islands?
You need to bring a Type B power adapter to The Cayman Islands if your plug won't fit into a Cayman Islands power outlet.
The type of power adapter, converter or charger that's needed when visiting The Cayman Islands will all depend on the voltage and type of device that you're attempting to charge with a Cayman Islands power outlet. If you're unsure of what voltage your device can use then please read the section on how to find out the voltage of your device before going any further.
- If you are from America and travelling to The Cayman Islands you will not need a power converter or a plug adapter. One suggestion however is to pack a multiple USB travel power adapter as it will allow you to power more than one device with only a single charger.
- If your device is 120 volts or is dual voltage and the plug can fit in a Cayman Islands power outlet then you can use it in The Cayman Islands without needing anything else.
- If your device is 120 volts or is dual voltage but your plug doesn't fit in a Cayman Islands power outlet then you will need to bring a suitable plug adapter for The Cayman Islands such a Type B power adapter. A plug adapter for The Cayman Islands (or power adapter) is designed to change the shape of the plug on your device to fit into a plug outlet found in The Cayman Islands, but can't convert the voltage from 120 volts to use with another voltage.
- If your device can't run on 120 volts and isn't dual voltage then you will also need a power converter for The Cayman Islands to convert the voltage from 120 volts to the correct voltage for your device. You'll still need to bring along a suitable plug adapter for The Cayman Islands if the power converter doesn't use the correct Type B power adapter.
- If you simply want to bring your USB devices such as tablets or cellphones then a USB travel power adapter will be more suited and it should be dual voltage, but ensure that you bring a USB travel adapter which has a Type B power adapter otherwise you will also need to use a suitable plug adapter for The Cayman Islands. [3] [AD]
- An increase in use of a mobile phone during a vacation to The Cayman Islands will put an additional demand on the battery therefore you should pack a power bank if you need to keep your phone or other USB powered devices charged whilst travelling to an unfamiliar country.
The Cayman Islands power adapters
Power adapters for The Cayman Islands
If packing for a holiday it is helpful to know if you can charge your common gadgets at your destination. But, by not knowing which power socket is being used you could end up either weighing your suitcases down with unnecessary spare adaptors or bring the wrong adaptor, meaning needing to borrow a suitable adaptor when you're there that might not be compatible. Varying different combinations of voltages and plug types can often be daunting when planning on staying in a new country to the first time traveller. This isn't as complex as it appears, with only a handful of different types of plug sockets used in the world this guide tells you exactly what you'll need in advance to charge your electronics in The Cayman Islands. This page has links to step-by-step instructions telling you which power adapters you'll need to supply power to your devices when visiting The Cayman Islands by using their B or A type Cayman Islands 120 volt 60Hz wall outlets, Type B plug outlets will be normally used by most Caymanians. Most power adapters differ depending on which country you travelling to therefore please read our Wiki Connections world power adapters list where you'll find a full list showing charging devices in different destinations.
What is the best power adapter for The Cayman Islands?
The best power adapter for The Cayman Islands is a Type B power adapter which will allow you to use any 120 volt device or appliance. [3] [AD]
What is a power adapter?
A power adapter is a small and lightweight plastic adapter which permits a different type of power plug on an appliance from another region to safely fit into a power socket in The Cayman Islands.
Also known as: an electrical adapter, plug adapter, travel adapter, electrical adaptor, mains travel adapter or power adaptor. [5]
What does a power adapter do?
A power adapter for The Cayman Islands allows visitors travelling from another location to use electronic and electrical appliances in The Cayman Islands simply by changing the shape of the plug from one type to another.
Can a power adapter change the voltage in The Cayman Islands?
Power adapters only adapt the shape of a plug to fit into a 120 volt Cayman Islands power outlet and doesn't convert the power to a higher voltage. If you wish to safely use any 220-240 volt device you also need to bring a more expensive step up power converter for The Cayman Islands along with the correct power adapter.
Do I need a plug adapter in The Cayman Islands?
If the shape of the Cayman Islands power outlet power outlet in your home country then you will need a power adapter.
Where to buy a power adapter for The Cayman Islands
Power adapters are most likely be available in major airports prior to departure, however the range of adapters might be limited to popular destinations. It is recommended to research the exact type of adapter required prior to shopping at the airport. Look in the travel accessories section of airport newsagents, electronic stores and pharmacists but expect to pay 50% more than regular prices. Airports will be your last chance to buy a power adapter before departure, always check the returns policy to ensure you can easily exchange or refund a faulty or unsuitable product in an airside shop.
It will be more convenient and cheaper to buy the correct power adapter in advance of your trip. High street stores normally sell popular types of travel adapters to popular locations but for widest choice it is recommended to buy a power adapter online.
Where to buy a power adapter in The Cayman Islands
On arrival power adapters could be found in local electrical high street shops and drug stores, but always check the build quality first as safety standards might be different in a foreign country as this is important when dealing with electrical goods. Keep in mind that a shopping trip searching for power adapters in an unknown location might be impractical, especially as this needs to happen quickly before batteries run out.
Hotel receptions could have a power adapter for sale, hire or as a complimentary extra for guests; however, availability is normally limited and a hotel might not have the exact type required for your country. If in doubt, call ahead to the hotel first and request a reservation as it is unlikely that an adapter will be found in your room on arrival.
Electrical adapters for The Cayman Islands
Power Plug Adapters
Benefits of a power plug adapter
- Small and lightweight.
- Affordable.
- Straightforward design makes the plug adapter simple to use.
- Using a Type B power adapter will be ideal for The Cayman Islands.
Disadvantages of a power plug adapter
- Only 1 adapter for each device - for every appliance you want to bring you will also need to use a separate plug adapter.
- A plug adapter only modifies the shape of the plug to fit in a Type B Cayman Islands power outlet but doesn't change the voltage; if your appliance doesn't work with a 120 volt outlet and isn't dual voltage then you will also need to bring a voltage converter.
- Your hotel room in The Cayman Islands may only have one wall outlet available, therefore you will only be capable of powering a single appliance at a time.
- If you need to power any USB device then you also still need to bring your domestic USB charger as well.
- Should you plan to visit more than one country then you may need to bring multiple power adapter types. [3] [AD]
Universal Travel Power Adapters
Benefits of a universal travel power adapter
- Typical universal travel adapters will work in over 150 countries.
- An all in one design. Both small and lightweight.
- There are some universal travel power adapters which include multiple charging ports for USB electronics.
- Fairly easy to use.
- There are some models which have a surge protector built in, this will prevent your device from being overpowered by unstable power grids in some countries.
- The retractable pins don't get caught against other items when packed in your luggage.
- It can potentially still be functional domestically as a USB charger.
- Changes shape to Types A/B, E/F, G and I plugs so should work with a Cayman Islands power outlet.
Disadvantages of a universal travel power adapter
- Universal travel power adapters must not be used with a high powered electrical appliance such as hair straighteners, vacuum cleaners, kettles, curling irons or hair dryers.
- The pins, shutters and other moving parts might be fragile on some models which might make them prone to failure whilst abroad.
- Only provide power to a single appliance.
- A universal travel power adapter might not be completely universal; some models might not cover some countries with less popular power outlet types.
- Universal travel power adapters lack an in-built voltage converter meaning they aren't suitable for electrical devices which aren't 120 volts. [6] [AD]
Travel USB Wall Chargers
Benefits of a travel USB wall charger
- Perfect when you only have to power USB devices such as tablets, iPhones and MP3 players.
- Instead of carrying lots of domestic USB power chargers you will only need to pack one charger.
- Supplied with interchangeable heads which means they can be used in a large number of countries. The interchangeable adapter heads are usually lightweight and small making them easy to store.
- Offers surge protector built in.
- When you return home it could still be of use.
- The swappable heads will fit into Types A/B, E/F, G and I outlets so will work with a Cayman Islands power outlet.
Disadvantages of a travel USB wall charger
Travel Power Strips
Benefits of a travel power strip
- A travel power strip is able to power many electrical appliances and devices simultaneously via a single plug socket.
- Some models have voltage conversation for low wattage electronics such as cameras. So even if the appliance isn't dual voltage it should still function with a Cayman Islands power outlet by using a travel power strip. This will make them a lightweight and cheap substitute for a dedicated power converter.
- Some power strips should include multiple USB charging ports.
- Offers surge protection. The voltage from power grids in some areas might be tempremental, a surge in power might damage your devices. Some power strips will have a surge protector built in which will protect any device from being overpowered by an unstable power grid.
- When you return home the power strip could still work.
- US and Canadian power strips include Type A, B, D, E/F, G, H, I, L and N plug adapters so should work in The Cayman Islands.
Disadvantages of a travel power strip
- The conversion on travel power strips doesn't work with higher wattage appliances such as hair dryers or curling irons.
- Due to their size power strips might not be suitable for hand luggage.
- Travel power strips could be considered excessive for some travellers with only a small number of devices and appliances to charge. [8] [AD]
Plug Adapter Sets
Benefits of a plug adapter set
- A set works out more reasonable than purchasing multiple individual power plug adapter types.
- Covers every country.
- Ideal if you are visiting different countries.
- Each set includes Type A, B, C, D, E/F, G, H, I, J, L, M and N plugs so should work in The Cayman Islands.
Disadvantages of a plug adapter set
- Will involve some planning; prior to any trip you'll have to choose which adapters to pack in advance, or alternatively bring every adapter in the set along.
- Lots individual items to bring along.
- Having only one working power adapter the remaining power adapters will be useless using up space.
- Not every power adapter types are typically included in the set (and especially the less common adapters) - so check that your set includes an adapter which is compatible in The Cayman Islands.
- Each adapter only changes the shape of the plug but won't change the voltage. [9] [AD]
Voltage Converters
Benefits of a voltage converter
- A step up voltage converter will let travellers to use non-120 volt electronics with a power outlet in The Cayman Islands.
- Voltage converters have a surge protector, this will protect any device from being overpowered.
Disadvantages of a voltage converter
- It only changes the 120 volts from a Cayman Islands power outlet and not the shape of the plug to fit into a Cayman Islands power outlet, therefore you'll still need to bring the correct type of power adapter.
- The normal size and weight of most models makes them unsuitable for carrying in carry-on luggage.
- An expensive converter will be redundant after your trip to The Cayman Islands.
- Usually cheaper and more practical to purchase a dual voltage travel appliance than to purchase an expensive power converter simply to bring your existing single voltage domestic appliance in an incompatible country.
Comparison of electrical adapters for The Cayman Islands
Type B Power Plug Adapter |
Universal Travel Power Adapter |
Travel USB Wall Charger |
Travel Power Strip |
Plug Adapter Set |
Voltage Converter |
|
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Can be used in The Cayman Islands | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Types of plug included | B | A/B, E/F, G and I | A/B, E/F, G and I | A, B, D, E/F, G, H, I, L and N | A, B, C, D, E/F, G, H, I, J, L, M and N | B |
Compatible number of countries (A) | 45+ | 150+ | 150+ | 200+ | 230+ | 230+ |
Fits in a Type B Cayman Islands power outlet | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Useful when you return home | • | Yes | Yes | Yes | • | • |
Typical combined number of USB ports and AC outlets | 1 | 3 | 4 | 7 | 1 | 2 |
Powers USB devices | • | Yes | Yes | Yes | • | • |
Typical number of USB ports | 0 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
Powers a 120 volt AC appliance in The Cayman Islands | Yes | Yes | • | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Typical number of AC outlets | 1 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 1 (B) | 2 |
Converts voltage (?) | • | • | • | Yes (C) | • | Yes |
Surge protection | • | Yes | Yes | Yes | • | Yes |
Typical dimensions | 2.6 x 1.9 x 1.4 inches | 3 x 2.1 x 2.1 inches | 4.3 x 3.4 x 1.3 inches | 6.6 x 3.6 x 1.5 inches | 7.1 x 3.9 x 2.8 inches | 11.7 x 8.1 x 6.7 inches |
Typical weight | 4.5 ounces | 4 ounces | 4.5 ounces | 1.6 pounds | 13 ounces | 20 pounds |
Typical number of items to carry (D) | 1 | 1 | 5 | 8 | 12 | 2 |
Suitable for hand luggage | Yes | Yes | Yes | • (E) | • (F) | • |
Buy | Buy | Buy | Buy | Buy | Buy |
The Cayman Islands power outlets and plug sockets
What plug sockets are used in The Cayman Islands?
There are two different types of power outlets used in The Cayman Islands, types B and A with the primary power supply being type B:
- Plug Type A - You can identify this power socket by the 2 adjacent slots.
- Plug Type B - The plug outlet (technically known as a type B power outlet) can be identified by the 2 slots next to each other where the short live and neutral blades sit with a semicircular hole below for the grounded pin. [3] [AD]
What is the frequency used with a Cayman Islands power outlet?
The frequency of the alternating current from a Cayman Islands power outlet is 60 Hz. [11]
Is an electrical power outlet for the Caribbean the same as a Cayman Islands power outlet?
Various countries throughout The Caribbean use different voltages and power outlet types, a plug that could be used in The Cayman Islands might not function or fit in another island. When travelling to more than one island in The Caribbean you should either bring along a multiple power adapter travel set consisting of various types of power adapters, or a single international travel plug adapter as both these options ensure that you are covered for most different power outlet types that you might find on each island.
As all islands in The Caribbean use different standards of voltages and power outlet types you may find a plug that can be used in The Cayman Islands might not work correctly with an electrical outlet on another island. Before travelling check these pages for more instructions on what to expect for every island in the Caribbean: Anguilla, Antigua, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Cuba, Curacao, Dominican Republic, Dominica, Grenada, Grenadines, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique, Montserrat, Nevis, Puerto Rico, Saint Kitts, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent, Tobago, Trinidad and US Virgin Islands. [9] [9] [12] [AD]
How do I use a 220 volt appliance in The Cayman Islands?
To use a 220V appliance in a Cayman Islands power outlet you will need to use a step up power converter.
Should I use a portable charger in The Cayman Islands?
While electrical cuts aren't common with power being available to the entire population, visitors are still advised to bring a portable charger to recharge mobile phones.
- The dependence on mobile phones for some people is high and the thought of being offline can cause mild anxiety, particularly when being used when travelling to an unknown location. During a trip to The Cayman Islands increased use of mobile phones for storing calendars, taking photographs, social networks, getting directions and web browsing can syphon off power excessively. A flat mobile phone battery can possibly leave you in an unknown location without enough power to make emergency calls or being able to use sat nav to find your way back to accommodation or hotel. Bringing a portable power bank to The Cayman Islands alleviates those concerns as it means you can power up your mobile phone on the move.
- Use at least a 10,000mAh power bank which can store enough electricity to power over 3 full charges whilst a 20,000mAh portable charger should keep a typical mobile phone powered for roughly seven days.
- Providing that your laptop supports USB-C charging then bringing a portable charger for a laptop marked with PD (power delivery) which supplies 20Wh or more can be used to recharge the laptop when travelling to The Cayman Islands. Be aware that some airlines don't let you take batteries on an aircraft with more than 100 Wh of power and must be kept in carry-on luggage only so always ahead with the carrier.
- Small consumer portable chargers won't work with high powered items, although a rechargeable hair dryer or rechargeable cordless flat iron are available for travelling. [4] [13] [14] [15] [16] [17] [AD]
Will a solar charger work in The Cayman Islands?
The sunlight in The Cayman Islands will be adequate enough to charge solar power bank reliability, however it will need to be left in strong sunshine to provide suitable power for a single charge. This may prove inconvenient to constantly unpack a solar power bank and wait for it to recharge in sunny spells.
- Instead, the bigger panels used on a solar backpack will give the backpack the ability to generate more power within a shorter period of time, making them ideal for the weather in The Cayman Islands.
- Phones that have been plugged directly into the USB charging port of a solar backpack should gradually top up the power during sunny spells in The Cayman Islands, but this could prove inconvenient to have it continually tethered in the bag if it is to be needed constantly. A solar powered backpack is continuously exposed to light therefore will be powering up a regular power bank throughout the day, unlike a handheld solar power bank which needs unpacking and facing the sunlight.
- Even though the climate in The Cayman Islands is suitable, a bag should have a solar cell efficiency of at least 22%, can generate a minimum of 6 watts of power and can be used with a power bank of 10,000mAH or stronger.
- Unlike normal firm solar cells, the durable and flexible solar cells used in solar powered bags are designed to survive bending and scratching. Solar bags come in backpack, rucksack and messenger styles which makes them ideal for domestic, work and travel. [18] [19] [AD]
Sources
- International Electrotechnical Commission - World plugs by location (cited August 2014)
- Wikipedia - Mains electricity by country (cited July 2014)
- Index Mundi - Power outages in a typical month (cited May 2018, data collected between 2006 to 2017)
- Index Mundi - Access to electricity (cited May 2018, latest data collected 2010)
- timeanddate.com - Weather Around the World (cited May 2018)
The Cayman Islands chargers
What is a USB travel power charger?
A USB travel charger is a dual voltage charger with interchangeable plugs and multiple USB ports, suitable for charging multiple USB powered devices when travelling abroad.
What USB charger do I need for The Cayman Islands?
If travelling to more than one country the best international travel charger for The Cayman Islands is a multiple USB adapter which includes compatible plugs like a 4 port USB travel charger. Caymanians use two different types of plug sockets (types B and A) and using a power charger like this ensures that you are covered for type A.
As these chargers are supplied with interchangeable pins and can handle from 100 - 240 volts will mean you can travel to over 100 countries around the world simply by changing the supplied plugs. If your type of device can support Fast Charge (not all USB devices do) then you will benefit from quicker charging times by using one of these types of USB power chargers, along with additional support for certain power hungry devices like tablets.
Unlike other chargers this means you can power more than one device at the same time without needing to buy seperate power adapters. Because you are only packing a single travel charger will keep the overall weight and size down, making it perfect to fold up and store in hand luggage as well as being convenient for recharging your devices at the airport or on a plane. Because of their flexibility these types of travel chargers can be used at home so when you’re not on holiday they can sit overnight charging multiple smartphones, tablets and e-readers with only a single power outlet.
We recommend searching for a versatile travel charger similar to this online. The travel adapter illustrated here is the universal multi-device USB wall charger which has been successfully tested for charging multiple USB devices in numerous different countries on a daily basis. [7] [AD]
Why use a travel USB charger for The Cayman Islands?
- Typically travel USB chargers include multiple USB charger ports, meaning you should only need to bring a single charger to charge multiple devices. This reduces the size and weight of your baggage by only needing to pack a single USB wall charger rather than having to bring several power chargers along.
- Most travel USB chargers will include swappable plug heads for different countries. This is perfect when travelling to multiple countries which will probably use a different standard to The Cayman Islands.
- Good USB travel power chargers are compact, rugged and lightweight; perfect for the rigors of travel rather than risking packing a domestic charger which could be impossible to repair in The Cayman Islands.
- USB chargers can accept both the 120 volts used in The Cayman Islands power outlets plus different voltage standards in other countries.
- There is a possibility that hotels in The Cayman Islands only have a single wall outlet, by using a travel charger with multiple USB ports allows you to share the single power supply with family or other traveler rather than waiting to charge one device at a time.
- Because of their flexible nature they take the uncertainty out of visiting an unknown destination as they are guaranteed to work practically anywhere on the planet.
- Power outlets found in airports are often in short supply and the demand for charging multiple cell phones from other passengers before a flight can be high, so a USB travel charger with multiple ports and the capability to fast charge is ideal.
- Some countries power grids are unstable, a good quality travel USB charger allows for unexpected fluctuations to prevent damage to any devices attached to it. Attempting to repair an overloaded smartphone in The Cayman Islands might prove to be difficult and expensive.
- Higher priced USB chargers will also include power outlet strips to use multiple low wattage devices such as laptops, however these will be unsuitable for high wattage appliances such as hair dryers or clothes irons. Refer to our section on using travel appliances with a Cayman Islands power outlet for helpful guidelines on the best power adapter to use with a Cayman Islands power outlet for high powered devices.
- Certain cell phones and tablets might pull more than the normal 500 milliamps produced from a standard 5 volt USB adapter to charge or provide fast charge. Quality USB travel chargers will support fast charging incase some of your devices need extra power.
- Travel USB power chargers can also be useful when returning home by recharging multiple mobile phones and tablets every night using one power outlet. [7] [AD]
What is the best USB charger for The Cayman Islands?
A 4 port USB travel charger is the most compact option for travellers from any country wanting to recharge devices via USB, however for those also wishing to use their domestic plugs these power strips provide larger but more versatile solutions. All 3 power adapters offer surge protection which can be crucial for travellers to counties with unreliable or unstable power supplies. These power adapters come with interchangeable type C, I and G plugs covering both The Cayman Islands and over 150 countries around the world:
- BESTEK Portable International Travel Voltage Converter - The BESTEK travel converter has 4 USB charging ports with 3 AC power outlets and is the most popular portable power converter for travellers originating from North America going to The Cayman Islands using type B American plug sockets.
- ORICO Traveling Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip - Similarly having 4 USB ports but only 2 AC power outlets the travel adapter from Orico is also aimed at travellers from North America using type B plugs and is a much more cost effective alternative to the BESTEK with only 1 less AC outlet at almost half price.
- BESTEK International USB Travel Power Strip - This power strip has just 2 AC outlets but offers a generous 5 USB charging ports. This versatile power strip is compatible with both American plugs and popular plug types A, D,E/F, G, H, I, L and N making it ideal for most travellers from around the world visiting The Cayman Islands. [7] [AD]
Power converters for The Cayman Islands
What does a power converter for The Cayman Islands do?
A power converter for The Cayman Islands will enable travellers to use their 220, 230 or 240 volt electrical appliance with a 120 volt Cayman Islands power outlet.
Also known as: electrical converter, electrical transformer, voltage converter, power transformer or voltage transformer.
What is the difference between a power converter and a plug adapter for The Cayman Islands?
A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your device to slot into a power outlet found in The Cayman Islands, but an expensive and bulkier power converter will transform the voltage of 120 volts from a Cayman Islands power outlet to work with a non-120 volt device. [20] [AD]
Do I need a power converter for The Cayman Islands?
When travelling to The Cayman Islands from another country check your device can be charged using a 120 volt power supply.
- You need a step up power converter if you are travelling to The Cayman Islands from a country that uses 220-240 volts and your appliance or device won't support 120 volts. See the list of world power outlets page to find out which voltage your country uses.
- You shouldn't need a power converter if you are already using either a 120 volt device or one that supports dual voltage.
- Normally electrical devices which come from a different country which use a higher voltage (such as 230 volts) and used with 120 volts can take longer to charge or won't turn on. If your device charges slowly or does not power up when travelling to The Cayman Islands from a different region check that it can be used with a 120 volt power outlet otherwise you will need a step up power converter.
- You won't need a power converter if you are attempting to charge a smaller electrical device such as a laptop as these are normally dual voltage and designed for international use, however you should always check the device for dual voltage support prior to your journey.
- For powering high wattage appliances or generate heat (for example hair straighteners and clothes irons) then you will need to use a much larger higher wattage heavy duty power converter.
- It should be more cost effective to purchase a smaller robust dual voltage travel appliance than paying for a heavier high wattage power converter to The Cayman Islands just to use your existing domestic appliance.
- Read our comprehensive travel guides on using clothes irons, curling wands, hair straighteners and blow dryers in The Cayman Islands which includes recommendations for affordable dual voltage alternatives. [10] [21] [AD]
What converter do I need for The Cayman Islands?
If you need to use any 220, 230 or 240 volt appliance in The Cayman Islands you will need a step up power converter. [10] [AD]
What voltage is used in The Cayman Islands?
The Cayman Islands uses 120 volts in their normal power outlets. [2]
How to convert 120 volts to 220 volts
- Use a step up power converter to allow you to use 220, 230 and 240 volt appliances with a 120 volt Cayman Islands power outlet.
- If the power converter doesn't include the correct shaped plug then it will also be necessary to plug in the power cord from the power converter into a power adapter for The Cayman Islands before plugging that into a Cayman Islands power outlet.
- Some power converters include the ability to perform both step up and step down voltage conversions, therefore it may be necessary to manually switch the converter to output the voltage from 220-240v.
- Plug your appliance into the converter and turn the power on, your 220-240 volt appliance can now be used with a 120 volt Cayman Islands power outlet. [10] [AD]
What is the difference between a power converter and a power transformer?
Converters and transformers are both used to change one voltage to another, but this ambiguity can cause confusion as their purposes are different:
- Power converters are designed for simple electrical appliances which typically generate heat or use motors such as clothes irons, shavers or hair dryers. Transformers are designed for more complex electronic items such as televisions or games consoles.
- Buying a power converter is cheaper than buying a power transformer.
- Power transformers are larger and heavier making them more suited for permanent residential use; for example an expat wishing to use an imported television would need to use a transformer for this purpose.
- Power converters are more suitable for travellers wishing to bring domestic appliances abroad such as hair dryers or flat irons. However, it is more practical and cost effective to purchase a dual voltage appliance designed for travel rather than a heavier power converter.
- Power converters are suitable for 2 pin ungrounded appliances, it could be harder to find a converter if you want to use a grounded 3 pin appliance.
- Transformers can be used constantly however it is recommended that converters are used for no longer than a couple of hours at a time.
- Shops may sell transformers under the name of converters, for the purposes this guide we will be referring to both converters and transformers as converters.
What voltage is my device?
The best method to see if your device is dual or single voltage is to look for numbers printed on the existing charger or on the unit itself, typically near to where the power cord plugs into. The location might depend on the make or model of your unit and should also be written in the instruction manual.
- Single voltage devices might say a specific number - such as 220V.
- Single voltage devices could also have a small voltage range (around 20 volts) with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V.
- Dual voltage devices will typically say a larger range separated with a slash - such as 110/240V.
Substantiations
See the power adapter substantions section for more information on how we compared travel adapters.
What type of adapter do you need for The Cayman Islands?
Which type of plug adapter do you need to bring to The Cayman Islands?
The type of plug adapter that is suitable for The Cayman Islands will depend on various requirements. Prior to deciding the right adapter to buy we recommend using this checklist:
How many electrical items are you packing for The Cayman Islands?
- Add up how many applicances and devices you want to pack for The Cayman Islands (including tablets, laptops, cell phones, hair straighteners or clothes irons).
- Allow for more electrical items at a later date. Do you intend on buying a new laptop computer soon?
- There are an increasing amount of smaller rechargeable devices such as electric shavers that use USB as their power charging source, the next time you replace a device it could need a USB adapter so check that your travel adapter has enough spare ports to power these as well.
- Are you bringing children to The Cayman Islands who will need to recharge their phones?
What different types of electrical devices do you want to charge in The Cayman Islands?
- There are three different types of electrical devices or appliances:
- Low wattage electronic devices which can be plugged into an electrical outlet - for example a laptop.
- High wattage electrical appliances that plug into a power outlet - for example hair straighteners or clothes irons.
- USB devices that can be plugged into a USB port - for example mobile phones.
- Should you only want to take just USB powered devices you'll find that a simple travel USB charger is ideal as you will only have to bring that single compact charger with your charging cables and leave your domestic chargers at home.
- A travel power strip is designed for providing power and converting voltage for many low wattage devices of any voltage, however won't work with high wattage appliances that need voltage conversion and could potentially damage the power strip.
How many Cayman Islands power outlets will be available?
- Hotels in The Cayman Islands may only have one power outlet on the wall. This could present a problem if charging up batteries of multiple items such as cell phones, tablet computers and cameras overnight as you will only be able to charge one device at a time every few hours.
- To recharge multiple devices simultaneously we recommend packing a USB wall charger or a travel power strip that can charge multiple USB ports and outlets. [8] [AD]
Do your devices and appliances only work with 120 volt power outlets?
- The voltage from a Cayman Islands power outlet is 120 volts, so if you come from a country that doesn't use 120 volts and you don't have a dual voltage appliance (how you can tell) then you'll either need to use a bulky voltage converter or a lighter power strip with a built in voltage converter.
- It can be costlier to buy a voltage converter instead of bringing a dedicated dual voltage travel appliance (for example a dual voltage hair dryer, clothes iron, curling iron or hair straighteners for The Cayman Islands) which is designed for travel and often includes an assortment of plug adapters.
Will you only be planning on charging USB devices in The Cayman Islands?
- If you intend to use USB devices such as phones or tablets then it is recommended to just pack a travel USB wall charger.
- If you only use a normal power plug adapter you will still need to bring your domestic USB power charger as well. [7] [AD]
What is your budget?
- A basic power adapter can power only one device from a Cayman Islands power outlet (providing that works with 120 volts or is dual voltage), however investing in a little more means you can power multiple devices at once and bring them to various different countries.
Do you intend on visiting anywhere abroad in the future?
- A USB wall charger with interchangeable heads or universal travel adapter can potentially be reused for other trips in the future to other countries.
Do you plan on visiting countries other than The Cayman Islands?
- A simple plug adapter only typically works in the one country, so if you are visiting more than a single country you'll need to bring additional power adapters which can in turn add to the number of adapters you have to pack.
- However, travel USB wall chargers and universal travel adapters are perfect for travelling to multiple countries due to the inclusion of interchangeable heads.
Are you flying long haul to get to The Cayman Islands?
- With long journeys it's worth considering bringing an airport-friendly charger that works in different power outlet types, one which can be packed in carry-on luggage and can be used to quickly top up phones and tablets.
- Not all airports and airlines actually have power outlets for travellers therefore we recommend using a battery portable power bank which will recharge on the move. When you land you could have to rely on your phone to make telephone calls, sending emails , using mapping to locate your hotel or reading an itinerary - it is recommended that your phone has enough battery power stored. [4] [AD]
Will you always have reliable access to electrical power?
- The voltage in The Cayman Islands is stable however if you need to go to other countries you might need an adapter which will protect your electrical appliances. Electricty in some countries might often fluctuate which could potentially cause damage to your devices, so it is advisable to use an adapter which has surge protection such as a travel power strip.
- Be prepared for a power cut and countries with limited electricity by packing a solar backpack and portable power bank. [4] [4] [18] [AD]
Would you like to use your charger when returning home?
- Some models of travel power strips and travel USB chargers will also be useful when you return home.
Do you bringing just hand luggage to The Cayman Islands?
- Due to the increased size both travel power strips and most models of power converters could be too bulky and heavy for carrying in carry-on luggage, consider using either a USB wall charger or a lightweight universal travel power adapter. [6] [AD]
What can I connect to a Cayman Islands power outlet
Travel appliances that can plug into a Cayman Islands power outlet
Beats Pill speakers which can connect to a Cayman Islands power outlet
Jabra Bluetooth speakers which are compatible with a Cayman Islands power outlet
Mobile phones which can connect to a Cayman Islands power outlet
Apple iPhones that can connect to the Cayman Islands power outlet
Samsung Galaxy phones that work with a Cayman Islands power outlet
Amazon Kindle tablets which can connect to a Cayman Islands power outlet
A list of Apple iPads which are compatible with a Cayman Islands power outlet
Corrections
We endeavor to ensure all details on this page are correct and relevant to travellers visiting The Cayman Islands, if you wish to contribute any useful information or feedback please email travel@wikiconnections.org. For more comprehensive technical details visit the Wikipedia page on AC power plugs and sockets. [22]
Disclaimer
WikiConnections is not responsible for any injury or damage caused due to using any type of suggested product with any other electrical device or appliance in any location, full details are available on the disclaimer page. While WikiConnections strives to make the information on this website as timely and accurate as possible, we make no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the contents of this site, and expressly disclaim liability for errors and omissions in the contents of this site. All functions and capabilities should be checked prior to purchasing or using any power adapter. Assumptions on if any power adapter, charger, converter or power strip works in any location is based on data from publicly available sources and if it fits the primary power outlet used in that country. WikiConnections has not taken into consideration other less common power outlets which might be found as these might only be used in certain areas or in the process of being phased out.
Where possible, WikiConnections only recommends the type of product as being suitable along with alternatives and does not make any endorsement for any specific brand or product. Always check with the manufacturer to ensure full compatibility prior to attempting to use any device. Always check the reputation of the manufacturer and product to ensure the quality and safety of any electrical device being used.
External links
We endeavour to ensure that links on this page are periodically checked and correct for suitability. This website may receive commissions for purchases made through links on this page. As an Amazon Associate WikiConnections earn from qualifying purchases. For more details please read the disclaimers page.
- Wikipedia - Cayman Islands wikipedia page.
- iec.ch - International Electrotechnical Commission World Plugs
- Type B power 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..
- Portable power bank - Portable power banks are invaluable batteries for travel, especially in unfamiliar locations. Advanced charging technologies offer fast and efficient power delivery to mobile phones, tablets and headphones via USB ports..
- Wikipedia - power adaptor
- Universal travel power adapter - The universal travel power adapter is a versatile single solution for power on the go, compatible in over 150+ countries worldwide. A single unit compact design makes it a travel essential which easily fits into any travel bag..
- Universal multi-device USB wall charger - A universal multi-device USB wall charger features USB PD and standard ports for fast charging simultaneous. These includes interchangeable international plug adapters making it ideal for travel and certified for safety to protect against current and heat.
- Travel power strip - Combining surge protection, AC outlets, USB ports and swappable plug adapters, the travel power strip is a comprehensive power solution for global travellers..
- Power adapter set - A plug adapter set is a future-proof travel essential, containing various adapters to fit diverse power outlets around the world to ensure compatibility in a wide range of countries..
- Step up power converter - Step-up power converters are engineered to convert lower voltage outlets of 100V/120V to higher voltages of 220V/240V, enabling the use of appliances designed for higher-voltage environments in lower voltage countries..
- Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
- Portable international travel plug adapter - A portable international travel plug adapter serves as a versatile, all-in-one solution for travellers. Designed with a single AC outlet and multiple USB ports, such units offer global compatibility working in over 200 countries..
- Rechargeable hair dryer - Rechargeable hair dryers ideal for travel are lightweight and cordless for mobility, have low-heat settings for hair health, and a fast-charging battery for time efficiency. USB charging gives a wide range of charging options when travelling..
- Rechargeable cordless flat iron - Modern rechargeable cordless flat irons use advanced battery technology for consistent temperature control. Suitable for airline safe travel with universal voltage and USB charging capabilities..
- 10,000mAh portable charger - A portable charging device with a 10,000mAh capacity, commonly used for extending the battery life of mobile phones and other small electronics..
- 20,000mAh portable charger - A high-capacity charging device featuring 20,000mAh energy storage, capable of multiple charge cycles for mobile phones and some tablets. Suitable for extended periods away from power sources..
- USB-C PD power bank - A USB-C PD power bank utilises Power Delivery technology to facilitate high-speed charging, particularly for laptops requiring substantial power. A high wattage power bank ensures fast and efficient energy transfer, supporting USB-C enabled devices..
- Solar backpack - Incorporating large solar panel with USB outputs, solar backpacks are ideal as a reliable secondary source of energy for device charging in remote travel locations where electrical outlets are unavailable or unreliable..
- Solar power bank - Solar power banks integrate photovoltaic cells to offer a self-sustaining charging option, ideal when a backup power source is required for locations where electrical outlets are unreliable, scarce or unknown..
- 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..
- Heavy duty power converter - Heavy-duty power converters robust voltage transformation capabilities for designed for high-wattage devices, making them best suited for appliances like kettles and hair dryers that consume a significant amounts of power..
- Wikipedia - AC power plugs and sockets -