Using a curling iron in Solomon Islands

Solomon Islands power outlet

Summary

Check your curling iron can work in Solomon Islands:

  • If your curling iron can run using 220 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can check) then you'll only need to use the correct power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your curling iron will not fit in the outlet.

If not then:

  • Use a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] - you may still need the correct power adapter for Solomon Islands but these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for the rigors of travel.
  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing curling iron and other applicances with a 220 volt Solomon Islands power outlet, however this is noticeably bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel curling iron. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but not the actual physical shape of the plug on your curling iron to fit in the types of power outlet used in Solomon Islands, therefore check that the power converter has an appropriate power adapter for Solomon Islands otherwise you will still need to bring another power adapter. Be aware that your own personal curling iron might not be suited for travel and you could risk potential damage in your suitcase. [5] [AD]
Warning: If your curling iron won't handle 220 volts you run a risk of an electrical fire hazard, blowing a fuse or damage to your curling iron. Prior to using your curling iron in Solomon Islands read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a curling iron in Solomon Islands

Will my curling iron work in Solomon Islands?

That depends on if your curling iron can operate using the 220 volts used in Solomon Islands:

Solomon Islands power outlets and plug sockets

What voltage is used in Solomon Islands?

The normal residential voltage used in Solomon Islands is 220 volts.

What is the frequency used in Solomon Islands?

The frequency of the current used in a Solomon Islands power outlet is 50 Hz. [6]

Which power adapter do you need to use a curling iron in Solomon Islands?

Type I and G power outlets

Which power adapter do you need to use a curling iron in Solomon Islands?

There are two different types of power outlets used in Solomon Islands, types G and I with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type G - You can recognise the power outlet by three vertical rectangular holes in a triangular pattern.
  • Plug Type I - You can recognise the power outlet by three thin slots for the live, neutral and ground.

A recommended power adapter to bring to use a 220 volt curling iron in Solomon Islands is a Type G power adapter, read the step-by-step instructions below for full details of using a curling iron in Solomon Islands using a plug adapter. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage curling iron you will need to see if you also have to use a voltage converter.  [4] [7] [AD]

Dual voltage curling irons

How can I tell if my curling iron is dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your curling iron supports a dual voltage outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle or plug. The location will vary depending on the make and model of your curling iron, it should also state in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage curling irons will change automatically but other irons will have a switch which allows you to toggle between different voltages.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage curling iron. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Solomon Islands then you should be able to use your curling iron with a Solomon Islands 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 Solomon Islands power outlet falls within the range shown on your curling iron then you should be able to use it in Solomon Islands.
  • A larger range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage curling iron capable of being used in Solomon Islands or any other country.

Travelling to Solomon Islands with a curling iron

Is it safe to bring my curling iron to Solomon Islands?

Bringing a dual voltage travel curling iron is preferable to bringing your existing curling iron as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Solomon Islands power outlet, as long as you use the correct plug adapter for Solomon Islands.

Please note that bringing expensive domestic curling iron could place it at risk due to potential damage or loss in your check in luggage by an airport baggage handler in Solomon Islands. The cost and inconvenience involved in replacing an expensive specialised curling iron in Solomon Islands could outweigh the costs of purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel curling iron [2] before travelling. If you intend to bring along your own curling iron in your suitcase either slot 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 waiting to cool down.  [8] [AD]

Can curling irons go in your carry on to Solomon Islands?

According to the TSA guidelines for curling irons there are no restrictions when carrying a mains powered curling iron in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA suggests that you should check that the airline who is flying you to Solomon Islands will allow a curling iron onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. 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 cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping wires tightly around electronic items). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive curling irons in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against knocks and drops during your journey.   [8] [9] [10] [AD]

Power converters for Solomon Islands

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

A power converter (or voltage transformer) allows a curling iron using a different voltage to work using a 220 volt power outlet used in Solomon Islands. Travellers wishing to bring along their own domestic curling iron can use a power converter, however it can be more expensive to purchase a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel curling iron [2]. In addition, a travel curling iron can be noticeably smaller than a power converter making a travel curling iron more suitable when packing. [5] [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 small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your curling iron to slot into a power outlet in Solomon Islands, whereas an expensive and bulkier power converter will convert a 220 volt Solomon Islands power outlet to work with a non-220 volt curling iron. [5] [AD]

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

Instructions showing how to power a curling iron in Solomon Islands with a three pin Type G travel charger.

  1. Check that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or can work with a 220 volt power supply - but if not then don't proceed as you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your iron or blow a fuse. Some travel curling irons might usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the iron make sure the switch is set to the 220 volt setting for use in Solomon Islands, please consult the manufacturers instructions for more details on how to do this.
  2. You'll need to bring a Type G plug adapter [4] if the shape of the power outlet which is used in Solomon Islands isn't the same shape as the plug of your curling iron. The Type G plug adapter will help convert plugs on appliances from other countries for a power outlet found in Solomon Islands by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your curling iron to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Insert the Type G plug adapter in the Solomon Islands power outlet. You can identify the plug outlet by 3 rectangular holes in a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth pins.
  4. Plug in your curling iron into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Solomon Islands power outlet.
  6. You can now turn on the curling iron to use in Solomon Islands. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Solomon Islands using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Solomon Islands entry on wikipedia.org
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel curling iron
  3. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  4. 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..
  5. 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..
  6. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  7. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  8. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  9. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for curling irons -
  10. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.