How to use your curling iron in Pakistan

Pakistani power outlet

Summary

Check your curling iron can work in Pakistan:

  • If your curling iron can run on 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you will only need to use the correct power adapter listed below if the plug on your curling iron won't fit.

If not then you can either:

  • Use a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] - you might still need to use a suitable power adapter for Pakistan 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 230 volt Pakistani power outlet, however this is significantly heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel curling iron. A power converter will change the voltage but not the actual physical shape of the plug on your curling iron to fit in the power outlet used in Pakistan, therefore check that the voltage transformer includes a power adapter for Pakistan otherwise you will need to bring another power adapter. Please note - your own domestic curling iron might not be suitable for travelling and you could risk potential damage in transit. [11] [AD]
Warning: If your curling iron won't handle the 230 volts used in Pakistan you run the potential risk of a blown fuse, damage to your curling iron or even an electrical fire hazard. Prior to using your curling iron in Pakistan read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a curling iron in Pakistan

Will my curling iron work in Pakistan?

That depends on if your curling iron is designed to handle the 230 volts as used in Pakistan. If you're using either a dual voltage curling iron or your curling iron is designed to handle 230 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you should be able to use the curling iron in Pakistan. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel curling iron [2], read the guide on do you need a voltage converter to use a curling iron for help deciding which option is more suitable. [11] [AD]

Pakistan power outlets and plug sockets

What voltage is used in Pakistan?

Power outlets in Pakistan are 230 volts.

What electrical frequency is used with a Pakistani power outlet?

The frequency from a Pakistani power outlet is 50 Hz. [12]

Which plug adapter do you need to use a curling iron in Pakistan?

There are four types of power outlets used in Pakistan, types G, C, D and M with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type C - You can recognise the power outlet by 2 holes next to each other.
  • Plug Type D - You can identify this wall outlet by 3 holes in a triangle shape for live, neutral and ground.
  • Plug Type G - You can recognise the power outlet by 3 slots in a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth pins.
  • Plug Type M - You can identify this power outlet by 3 holes in a triangle configuration for live, neutral and ground.

A Type G plug adapter will allow you to use a 230 volt curling iron in Pakistan, read the step-by-step instructions below for full details of how to use a power adapter for Pakistan. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage curling iron you will need to confirm if you need to bring a voltage converter.  [8] [13] [AD]

Which plug adapter do you need to use a curling iron in Pakistan?
Plug adapters for Pakistan

Dual voltage curling irons

Is my curling iron dual voltage?

The way to tell if your curling iron will handle a dual voltage outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug or handle. The location will vary depending on the make and model of your curling iron, it should also be written on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage curling irons will change automatically but other irons will feature a button which allows you to toggle between different regions.

  • Single voltage could say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Pakistan then you should be able to use your curling iron with a Pakistani power outlet.
  • Single voltage could also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 230 volts used in a Pakistani power outlet falls within the range shown on your curling iron then you should be able to use it in Pakistan.
  • Dual voltage will typically say a larger range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your curling iron will be capable of being used in Pakistan or any other country if these numbers are shown.

Travelling to Pakistan with a curling iron

Is it safe to bring my curling iron to Pakistan?

Bringing a dual voltage travel curling iron is preferable to bringing your existing curling iron as it is safer to assume that it will operate correctly with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Pakistani power outlet, provided that you bring the correct plug adapter for Pakistan.

It is also worth concidering that packing your expensive domestic curling iron might put it at risk because of potential loss or damage in your check in suitcase by an airport baggage handler. The inconvenience and costs of replacing or repairing an expensive specialised curling iron in Pakistan could outweigh the costs of buying a much cheaper dual voltage travel curling iron [2] beforehand. If you intend to pack your own personal curling iron in your luggage it is recommended to either slide it inside a boot or sneaker to protect from light knocks, alternatively use a shockproof and heat resistant hot tools travel case which will also allow the curling iron to be transported right after use without risk of burning.  [14] [AD]

Can you pack a curling iron in your carry on to Pakistan?

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 United States. The TSA also recommends that you should verify that the airline who is flying you to Pakistan will allow a curling iron 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 checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cords tightly around electronic items such as curling irons). If you 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 provides the greatest protection against knocks and drops during transit.   [14] [15] [16] [AD]

Power converters for Pakistan

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

Voltage converter

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

A lightweight, cheap and small power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your curling iron to slot into a power outlet in Pakistan, whereas a heavy and bulkier power converter transforms a 230 volt Pakistani power outlet to work with a non-230 volt curling iron. [11] [AD]

Do I need a power converter for Pakistan to use my curling iron?

The correct voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow a curling iron using a different voltage to work using a 230 volt power outlet used in Pakistan. A power converter is more suitable for travellers who want to use their own domestic curling iron, but it might be considerably cheaper to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel curling iron [2] than it will be to buy a power converter. A power converter is substantially bulkier and heavier than a travel curling iron making a power converter less suited for packing in luggage compared to a travel curling iron. [11] [AD]

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

How to use your curling iron in Pakistan with a Type C power charger.

  1. Ensure that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet but if not then don't proceed because you might create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your iron. Before using a travel curling iron which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting - please consult the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. You'll need to use a Type C plug adapter [4] if the shape of plug used on your curling iron isn't the same shape as the plug outlet used in Pakistan. This power adapter will convert plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet found in Pakistan simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your curling iron to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Begin by inserting the Type C plug adapter in the wall outlet. You can identify this wall supply by 2 holes next to each other where the two pins slide into.
  4. Next plug in the curling iron into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Pakistani power outlet. The curling iron can now be used in Pakistan. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Pakistan using a type C power adapter

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

A step-by-step guide showing you how to power your curling iron in Pakistan with a Type D power charger.

  1. Check that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or works with a 230 volt power outlet - but if it doesn't then do not continue as you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your iron or blow a fuse. Dual voltage curling irons typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the iron make sure you have set it to accept 230 volts - please consult the user guide for more details on where this switch is located.
  2. You will need to bring a Type D plug adapter [6] if the type of plug on your curling iron isn't the same shape as the plug outlet used in Pakistan. This Type D plug adapter will help fit different plugs from other countries for a power outlet used in Pakistan simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your curling iron to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Begin by inserting the Type D plug adapter in the Pakistani power outlet. You can identify this wall supply by 3 circular holes forming a triangular pattern for live, neutral and earth pins.
  4. Next plug in the curling iron into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Pakistani power outlet. The curling iron can now be used in Pakistan. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Pakistan using a type D power adapter

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

Instructions showing how to power a curling iron in Pakistan by using a 3 pinned Type G travel adapter.

  1. Please make sure that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply - but if not then don't proceed because you may damage your iron, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel curling iron which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting for use in Pakistan; refer to the user guide to find out how to do this.
  2. If the plug shape on your curling iron isn't the same type of outlet which is used in Pakistan you'll need to use a Type G plug adapter [8]. The Type G plug adapter will help fit plugs on appliances from other countries for use with an electrical outlet in Pakistan by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the curling iron to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Plug in the Type G plug adapter in the wall outlet. This wall supply, sometimes called a Type G power outlet [7], can be recognised by the three vertical rectangular holes containing shutters in a triangle configuration.
  4. Plug in your curling iron into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Pakistani power outlet.
  6. The curling iron can now be used in Pakistan. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Pakistan using a type G power adapter

How to use a curling iron in Pakistan using a type M power adapter

A step by step guide showing you how to power a curling iron in Pakistan by using a Type M power charger.

  1. Check that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet but if not then don't attempt these instructions because you might create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your iron. Before using a travel curling iron which can toggle between different voltages ensure you have set it to accept 230 volts - please consult the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. You'll need to buy a Type M plug adapter [10] if the shape of plug on your curling iron isn't the same shape as the plug outlet used in Pakistan. This power adapter will convert plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet found in Pakistan simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your curling iron to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Begin by inserting the Type M plug adapter in the Pakistani power outlet. You can identify this power supply by 3 holes in a triangle configuration.
  4. Then plug in the curling iron into the Type M plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Pakistani power outlet. The curling iron can now be used in Pakistan. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Pakistan using a type M power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia entry about Pakistan
  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 D power outlet
  6. 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..
  7. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  8. 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..
  9. iec.ch - Type M power outlet
  10. Type M plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type M travel adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in African countries like South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Swaziland, as well as in parts of India..
  11. 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..
  12. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  13. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  14. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  15. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for curling irons -
  16. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.