How do I use my curling iron in Egypt?

Egyptian power outlet

Summary

Check that your curling iron can work in Egypt:

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

If not then either:

  • Use a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] - you might still need a suitable power adapter for Egypt however these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for the rigors of travel.
  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing curling iron and other applicances with an 220 volt Egyptian power outlet, however this is significantly heavier, bulkier 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 Egypt, so please check that the power converter includes a suitable power adapter for Egypt otherwise you will need to purchase another power adapter. Be aware that your domestic curling iron might not be suited for travel and you could risk damage in your luggage. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your curling iron won't handle 220 volts you run the risk of damage to your curling iron, an electrical fire hazard or a blown fuse. Prior to using your curling iron in Egypt please read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a curling iron in Egypt

Will my curling iron work in Egypt?

This depends on if your curling iron can handle the 220 volt power outlets used in Egypt. If you're using either a dual voltage curling iron or your curling iron can handle 220 volts and you have the correct power adapter then you can use it in Egypt. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter. Read the section on do you need a voltage converter to use your curling iron for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Egypt power outlets and plug sockets

What is the electrical frequency used with an Egyptian power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current from an Egyptian power outlet is 50 Hz. [8]

What mains voltage is used in Egypt?

Power outlets in Egypt are 220 volts.

Which power adapter do you need to bring to use a curling iron in Egypt?

Type C and F power outlets

Which power adapter do you need to bring to use a curling iron in Egypt?

There are two types of power outlets used in Egypt, types F and C with the primary power outlets being type F:

  • Plug Type C - You can identify this plug outlet by the two round holes next to each other for live and neutral pins.
  • Plug Type F - This recessed round power socket (known as a Schuko socket or type F power outlet) can be recognised by two circular adjacent holes next to each other where the live and neutral pins go, plus two metal grounding clips above and below.

A Type F plug adapter is suitable for powering a 220 volt curling iron in Egypt; read the simple instructions below for full details of using a curling iron in Egypt. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage curling iron you will need to confirm if you also have to bring a power converter.  [6] [9] [AD]

Dual voltage curling irons

Is my curling iron dual voltage?

A simple way to tell if your curling iron can accept a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle or plug. This location will vary depending on the make and model of your curling iron and should also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage curling irons can change automatically but other models will feature a button which allows you to toggle between different voltage ranges depending on which country you are in.

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

Travelling to Egypt with a curling iron

Can you take a curling iron in your carry on?

According to the TSA guidelines for curling irons there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered curling iron in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also suggests that you should verify that the airline that is flying you to Egypt 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 when going through airport security, it can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cables tightly around curling irons). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive curling irons in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against knocks and bumps during your journey.   [10] [11] [12] [AD]

Is it safe to bring my curling iron to Egypt?

Packing a dual voltage travel curling iron is preferable to bringing your existing curling iron as it ensures that it will operate correctly with the 220 volt power outlets used with an Egyptian power outlet, as long as you bring the correct plug adapter for Egypt. Note that packing expensive domestic curling iron might put it at risk because of potential damage or loss in transit by an airline baggage handler. The cost and inconvenience of repairing an expensive specialised domestic curling iron in Egypt could outweigh the costs of purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel curling iron [2] . If you intend to bring along your own personal curling iron in your suitcase it is recommended to either slide it inside a sneaker or boot 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.  [11] [AD]

Power converters for Egypt

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

A voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a curling iron using a different voltage to operate using a 220 volt power outlet used in Egypt. Travellers wishing to bring their own curling iron can use a power converter, but it can be more costly to purchase a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel curling iron [2]. Also, a travel curling iron can be substantially smaller than a power converter making a travel curling iron more suited for travelling. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your curling iron to fit into a power outlet in Egypt, but a heavy and bulkier power converter converts the voltage of 220 volts from an Egyptian power outlet to work with a non-220 volt curling iron. [7] [AD]

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

A guide showing how to use a curling iron in Egypt using a two 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 220 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. Travel curling irons sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the iron ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting to use in Egypt, please refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. You'll need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4] if the type of plug used on your curling iron isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Egypt. The Type C plug adapter will help fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet found in Egypt by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the curling iron to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Begin the process by taking the Type C plug adapter and plugging it in the Egyptian power outlet. You can identify the wall outlet by the two holes adjacent to each other for live and neutral.
  4. After that plug in your curling iron into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Egyptian power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on the curling iron to use in Egypt. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Egypt using a type C power adapter

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

How to power your curling iron in Egypt with a Type F travel charger.

  1. Check that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or can work with a 220 volt power supply - if not then do not proceed as you might blow a fuse, damage your curling iron or create an electrical fire hazard. Travel curling irons typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the iron ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting; please refer to the manufacturers instructions to find out where this switch is.
  2. You'll need to buy a Type F plug adapter [6] if the shape of plug on your curling iron isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Egypt. The plug adapter is designed to convert different plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet used in Egypt by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the curling iron to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Start by taking the Type F plug adapter and plugging it in the Egyptian power outlet. This sunken circular power outlet can be recognised by two circular adjacent holes next to each other where the live and neutral pins slide into, 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 Egyptian power outlet. The curling iron can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Egypt using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Egypt Wikipedia page
  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 F power outlet
  6. 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..
  7. 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..
  8. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  9. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  10. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for curling irons -
  11. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  12. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.