Using your hair straighteners in Belize

Belizean power outlet

Will my hair straighteners work in Belize?

First check your hair straighteners can handle the voltage in Belize:

  • If your hair straighteners can run using 110 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you will only need to use a suitable power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair straighteners won't fit.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair straighteners and other applicances with a 110 volt Belizean power outlet, however this is considerably bulkier, heavier and more expensive than dedicated travel hair straighteners. A power converter changes the voltage but won't change the actual shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to fit in the types of power outlet used in Belize, therefore please check that the power converter comes with the correct power adapter for Belize otherwise you will also need to bring a seperate power adapter. Also worth noting that your own existing hair straighteners might not be suited for travelling and you risk damage in your luggage. [9] [AD]
Warning: If your hair straighteners won't handle 110 volts you run the risk of blowing a fuse, damage to your hair straighteners or even an electrical fire hazard. Before using your hair straighteners in Belize check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using hair straighteners in Belize

Will my hair straighteners work in Belize?

This depends on if your hair straighteners can handle the 110 volts which are used in Belize:

Can I use my US hair straighteners in Belize?

The instructions on this page assume that you're an America reader visiting Belize and provide advice on using your US hair straighteners with a Belizean power outlet.

Belize power outlets and plug sockets

What mains voltage is used in Belize?

The normal residential voltage in Belize is 110 volts.

What is the electrical frequency used with a Belizean power outlet?

The frequency used in a Belizean power outlet is 60Hz. [10]

Which plug adapter will you need to bring to use  hair straighteners in Belize?

Type A, B and G power outlets

Which plug adapter will you need to bring to use hair straighteners in Belize?

There are three different types of power outlets used in Belize, types G, A and B with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type A - You can identify the wall socket by the two slots adjacent to each other for live and neutral pins.
  • Plug Type B - This plug outlet (known as a type B power outlet) is recognised by 2 slots next to each other with a single hole below for the earth pin.
  • Plug Type G - This plug outlet (known as a type G power outlet) looks like 3 rectangular slots forming a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth.

A recommended plug adapter to bring when using 110 volt hair straighteners in Belize is a Type G power adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of using a power adapter for Belize. Be aware that unless you that have dual voltage hair straighteners you will need to confirm if you also need to use a power converter.  [6] [11] [AD]

Dual voltage hair straighteners

How can I tell if my hair straighteners are dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair straighteners

How can I tell if my hair straighteners are dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair straighteners will handle a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle or the plug of the hair straighteners. The location might vary depending on the make or model of your hair straighteners, it could also be written on the box. Some dual voltage models will change automatically but other models will feature a button which allows you to toggle between different voltage ranges.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates single voltage hair straighteners. If this number matches the 110 volts used in Belize then you should be able to use your hair straighteners with a Belizean power outlet.
  • A small voltage range with a dash such as 100-120V also indicates single voltage hair straighteners which can accomodate small voltage fluctuations. If the 110 volts used in a Belizean power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair straighteners then you should be able to use it in Belize.
  • A large range separated with a dash or slash such as 100/240V indicates dual voltage hair straighteners capable of being used in Belize or any other country.
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Travelling to Belize with hair straighteners

Is it safe to bring my hair straighteners to Belize?

It is preferable to bring dual voltage travel hair straighteners as opposed to bringing your existing domestic hair straighteners to Belize as it is safer to assume that they will operate correctly with the 110 volt power outlets used with a Belizean power outlet, as long as you use the correct plug adapter for Belize. Please be aware that bringing your expensive domestic hair straighteners could put them at risk due to potential loss or damage in your check in luggage by an airline baggage handler in Belize. The inconvenience and costs of repairing expensive specialised domestic hair straighteners in Belize could overshadow the costs of purchasing cheaper dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] before your trip. If you intend to pack your own hair straighteners in your luggage it is recommended to either slide them inside a sneaker or boot to protect from light knocks, or use a heat resistant and shockproof hot tools travel case or heat resistant mat pouch for hair straighteners and curling irons which will also allow the hair straighteners to be packed right after use without waiting to cool down.   [12] [13] [AD]

Can you carry on hair straighteners in your luggage?

Travel hair straighteners with heat protective cap

Can you carry on hair straighteners in your luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair straighteners there are no restrictions when bringing mains powered hair straighteners in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA recommends that you should check that your airline who is taking you to Belize will allow hair straighteners onboard and that they will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft.

Packing the hair straighteners in a dedicated heat resistant protective hot tools travel case leaves them easily accessible by airport security, they can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping wires tightly around electric items such as hair straighteners). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive hair straighteners 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.    [2] [12] [14] [15] [AD]

Power converters for Belize

Do I need a power converter to use hair straighteners in Belize?

The correct type voltage transformer (or power converter) allows hair straighteners using a different voltage to operate using a 110 volt power outlet used in Belize. Travellers wishing to use their existing domestic hair straighteners can use a power converter, but it could be more expensive to buy a power converter than it is to buy dedicated dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2]. In addition, travel hair straighteners can be noticeably lighter than a power converter making travel hair straighteners more suitable for packing. [9] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

An expensive and bulky power converter will convert a 110 volt Belizean power outlet to work with non-110 volt hair straighteners, however a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to fit into a power outlet in Belize. [9] [AD]

Hair straightener safety

Are hair straighteners dangerous?

The temperature of the ceramic plates used in hair straighteners can reach over 200 degrees with the potential to burn hair, skin, and even start a fire if not used correctly. According to figures from Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service electrical beauty products have been responsible for an estimated 650,000 fires in the United Kingdom alone.

How can I minimise risk using hair straighteners?

A heat resistant glove

How can I minimise risk using hair straighteners?

  • Skin protection: Wear heat resistant gloves during styling to protect hands from heat.
  • Children's protection: With 10% of children's burns being caused by hair straighteners it is recommended to look for flat iron hair straighteners which include a heat resistant bag to keep the plates closed shut when not in use, making it easier to store out of reach of children.
  • Luggage protection: Placing hair straighteners directly into luggage without allowing them to cool down can risk damage to clothes and heating up combustible or flammable packed items. If your hair straighteners weren't supplied with a heat protective cap then wrap them in a heat resistant mat or use a hot tools travel case to pack them into luggage whilst warm. A travel case will also keep expensive hair straighteners protected from damage during transit.
  • Hair protection: Applying a heat protectant spray prior to using hair straighteners is essential to prevent burning, as well as using the correct technique for your hair type - read our guide on how to use hair straighteners for comprehensive information.
  • Fire protection: It can take up to 40 minutes for hair straighteners to cool down so resting your straighteners on a heat resistant mat could reduce the risk of setting fire to furniture. Forgetting to turn off hot domestic appliances can also cause fires. This risk can be reduced by using a model of straightener with a timer socket which will turn itself off automatically after a certain length of time, you can also add this feature to any basic straighteners by using a timer socket in a power outlet.    [12] [13] [16] [17] [18] [19] [AD]
How can I add a safety timer to my existing hair straighteners?

Hair straighteners connected to a timer power outlet

How can I add a safety timer to my existing hair straighteners?

1 in 12 owners of hair straighteners admit to forgetting to turn them off after use, unless your hair straighteners have a built in automatic timer then leaving them on could potentially start a fire. However you can add this functionality to any model even if it doesn't have an integrated timer:

  1. Add an automatic timer to any hair straighteners by plugging them into a timer socket then plugging the timer into a power outlet.
  2. Turn on the timer and use the hair straighteners as normal.
  3. After you have finishing using the hair straighteners turn off the power at the outlet.
  4. However if you forget to turn the power outlet off then the timer will automatically switch off the straighteners after a pre-set length of time. Depending on the model of timer this could be 15, 30, 60 or 120 minutes - ideally pick the shortest length of time possible.
  5. For added peace of mind use a power outlet splitter to share the outlet from the timer with both your hair straighteners and a lamp. When the timer is running both the straighteners and the lamp will be turned on, making the lamp a clear indicator that the straighteners are still being heated. When leaving a room it is second nature to ensure all lights are turned off, if the lamp is still on then this acts as a reminder to switch off the straighteners.
  [18] [20] [AD]

How to treat a hot iron burn

If you accidentally burn yourself run cold water under your burn and if it is severe it is advised to seek medical attention from a doctor or hospital.

How to use hair straighteners in Belize using a type B power adapter

How to power your hair straighteners in Belize with a three pinned Type B power adapter.

  1. Please ensure that your straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or works with a 110 volt power outlet - if it doesn't then don't continue because you might blow a fuse, damage your straighteners or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel hair straighteners which can toggle between different voltages make sure the switch is set to accept 110 volts for use in Belize - consult the manufacturers instructions for more information on where the switch is.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair straighteners isn't the same shape as the outlet used in Belize you'll need to bring a Type B plug adapter [4]. The Type B plug adapter will fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in an electrical outlet used in Belize by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair straighteners to work with a 110 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type B plug adapter into the wall outlet. The wall outlet (known as the Type B power outlet [3]) is identified by the 2 thin slots next to each other where the live and neutral blades go with a hole below for the earth pin.
  4. Plug in your hair straighteners into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Belizean power outlet. You can now switch on your straighteners in Belize. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Belize using a type B power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Belize using a type G power adapter

How to power hair straighteners in Belize using a three pronged Type G power charger.

  1. Please ensure that your straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or works with a 110 volt power outlet - if it doesn't then don't continue because you might blow a fuse, damage your straighteners or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel hair straighteners which can toggle between different voltages make sure the switch is set to accept 110 volts to use in Belize - consult the manufacturers instructions for more information on where the switch is.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair straighteners isn't the same shape as the outlet used in Belize you'll need to bring a Type G plug adapter [6]. The Type G plug adapter will fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in an electrical outlet used in Belize by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair straighteners to work with a 110 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type G plug adapter into the wall outlet. The wall outlet (known as the Type G power outlet [5]) can be recognised by 3 vertical slots with plastic shutters forming a triangle pattern for live, neutral and ground pins.
  4. After that plug in your hair straighteners into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Belizean power outlet.
  6. The hair straighteners should now be ready to use. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Belize using a type G power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Belize using a type A power adapter

How to power your hair straighteners in Belize by using a three bladed Type A power adapter.

  1. Please ensure that your straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or works with a 110 volt power outlet - if not then don't continue because you might damage your straighteners, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Some hair straighteners might usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using your straighteners make sure the switch is set to accept 110 volts for use in Belize - consult the instructions for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. This guide assumes that you are not already using hair straighteners with a Type A plug - if it does then you won't need a power adapter (but please check that your hair straighteners will work with a 110 volt power outlet). You'll need to bring a Type A plug adapter [8] if the shape of the power outlet which is used in Belize isn't the same shape as the plug of your hair straighteners. This plug adapter will help fit plugs from other countries into a power outlet in Belize simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of the hair straighteners to work with a 110 volt outlet.
  3. Start by plugging the Type A plug adapter into the Belizean power outlet. You can identify the wall supply by the two slots for live and neutral blades.
  4. Then plug in your hair straighteners into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Belizean power outlet.
  6. The hair straighteners can now be used in Belize. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Belize using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Belize entry on wikipedia
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair straighteners
  3. iec.ch - Type B power outlet
  4. Type B plug 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..
  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. iec.ch - Type A power outlet
  8. Type A plug adapter - A two-blade, ungrounded electrical plug adapter for US plug types, Canadian power outlets, Thailand sockets, Mexico plug types, and select Asian power outlets..
  9. 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..
  10. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  11. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  12. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  13. Heat resistant mat pouch for hair straighteners and curling irons - Protects surfaces from hot hair irons and wraps around the appliance allowing instant packing into baggage.
  14. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair straighteners -
  15. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
  16. Heat resistant gloves for hair styling - Heat resistant glove recommended to protect skin against the risk of heat from a curling iron, flat iron or hair dryer.
  17. Heat protectant spray - Thermal protector spray used prior to styling with heated tools such as blow dryers and flat irons.
  18. Energy saving outlet with timer - Automatic power shut down of a connected appliance after a preset length of time.
  19. Flat iron hair straighteners which include a heat resistant bag - Example of hair straighteners with a protective bag suitable for travel.
  20. Power outlet splitter - A power outlet splitter transforms a single wall outlet into multiple AC outlets which is a practical solution for using multiple appliances in locations with limited access to power outlets, such as hotels or airports..