Which power adapter will I need to bring to use a curling iron in Dominica?

Dominicand power outlet

Summary

Check that your curling iron can work in Dominica:

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

If not then:

  • Use a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] - you may still need to use a power adapter for Dominica but these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for travel.
  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing curling iron and other applicances with a 230 volt Dominicand power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel curling iron. A power converter changes 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 Dominica, therefore please check that the power converter comes with the right power adapter for Dominica otherwise you will also need to bring a seperate power adapter. Also worth noting that your own existing curling iron might not be suited for travelling and you risk potential damage in a suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your curling iron won't handle 230 volts you run the potential risk of damage to your curling iron, an electrical fire hazard or a blown fuse. Prior to using your curling iron in Dominica check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a curling iron in Dominica

Will my curling iron work in Dominica?

This depends on if your curling iron can handle the 230 volts which are used in Dominica. If you're using either a dual voltage curling iron or your curling iron can handle 230 volts and you have the appropriate plug adapter then you'll be able to use your curling iron in Dominica. If not then you will need to consider bringing either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter, read our guide on do you need a power converter to use a curling iron for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Dominica power outlets and plug sockets

What mains voltage is used in Dominica?

The normal voltage in Dominica is 230 volts.

What is the electrical frequency used in a Dominicand power outlet?

The frequency used in a Dominicand power outlet is 50Hz. [8]

Which power adapter will you need when using a curling iron in Dominica?

Type D and G power outlets

Which power adapter will you need when using a curling iron in Dominica?

There are two types of power outlets used in Dominica, these are type G and D with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type D - You can identify the wall socket by three holes forming a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth.
  • Plug Type G - You can identify the wall socket by three rectangular slots forming a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth.

A Type G power adapter will allow you to use a 230 volt curling iron in Dominica; read the step by step instructions below for full details of how to use a curling iron in Dominica. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage curling iron you might also need to use a voltage converter.  [6] [9] [AD]

Buy a plug adapter for Dominica

Dual voltage curling irons

Is my curling iron dual voltage?

One method to tell if your curling iron supports dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug or the handle of your curling iron. The location will depend on the make or model of your curling iron, it could also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models can change automatically but other models will feature a switch which allows you to change between different voltage ranges.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage curling iron. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Dominica then you should be able to use your curling iron with a Dominicand 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 230 volts used in a Dominicand power outlet falls within the range shown on your curling iron then you should be able to use it in Dominica.
  • A large range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage curling iron capable of being used in Dominica or any other country.

Travelling to Dominica with a curling iron

Should I bring my domestic curling iron or dual voltage curling iron to Dominica?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage curling iron instead of packing your existing domestic curling iron to Dominica as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Dominicand power outlet, provided that you bring the correct power adapter for Dominica.

Please be aware that packing expensive domestic curling iron might place it at risk due to potential damage or loss in transit by a baggage handlers. The cost and inconvenience of replacing an expensive quality curling iron in Dominica might be higher than buying a cheaper dual voltage travel curling iron [2] beforehand to bring along with you. If you intend to pack 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 whilst hot without risk of burning.  [10] [AD]

Can I carry on a curling iron to Dominica in my hand luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for curling irons there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered curling iron in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also suggests that you should verify that your airline that is flying you to Dominica 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 by airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cables tightly around curling irons). If you do intend to pack 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 drops and knocks during your journey.   [10] [11] [12] [AD]

Power converters for Dominica

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

Voltage converter

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

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your curling iron to slot into a power outlet found in Dominica, whereas a more expensive and heavier power converter will transform a 230 volt Dominicand power outlet to work with a non-230 volt curling iron. [7] [AD]

Do I need a power converter to use a curling iron in Dominica?

The correct model of power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow a curling iron using a different voltage to operate using a 230 volt power outlet used in Dominica. A power converter is suitable for travellers who want to use their existing domestic curling iron, however it might be cheaper to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel curling iron [2] than it is to purchase a power converter. Also, a travel curling iron can be substantially lighter and smaller than a power converter making a travel curling iron more suited for travelling. [7] [AD]

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

Instructions showing how to use a curling iron in Dominica with a Type D travel charger.

  1. Please check that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or works with a 230 volt power supply but if not then do not proceed as you might blow a fuse, damage your curling iron or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel curling iron make sure the switch is set to accept 230 volts to use in Dominica - consult the instructions for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. You'll need to bring a Type D plug adapter [4] if the shape of the power outlet used in Dominica isn't the same shape as the plug of your curling iron. This plug adapter is designed to fit plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet found in Dominica simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the curling iron to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Begin the process by taking the Type D plug adapter and inserting it in the power outlet. The wall outlet (known as the Type D power outlet [3]) can be recognised by 3 round holes in a triangular shape.
  4. Then plug in your curling iron into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Dominicand power outlet. You can now switch on the curling iron to use in Dominica. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Dominica using a type D power adapter

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

How to power your curling iron in Dominica using a three prong Type G power adapter.

  1. Ensure that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't continue because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your iron or blow a fuse. Dual voltage curling irons sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the iron ensure you have set it to the 230 volt setting; please refer to the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. You will need to use a Type G plug adapter [6] if the shape of the power outlet which is used in Dominica won't accomodate the plug on your curling iron. The Type G plug adapter helps fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in an electrical outlet used in Dominica by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your curling iron to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type G plug adapter into the Dominicand power outlet. You can identify the wall outlet by the three rectangular holes forming a triangular configuration for live, neutral and earth.
  4. Plug in the curling iron into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Dominicand power outlet.
  6. The curling iron can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Dominica using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Dominicand Wikipedia web page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel curling iron
  3. iec.ch - Type D power outlet
  4. 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..
  5. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  6. 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..
  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. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  11. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for curling irons -
  12. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.