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Barbados
Electrical outlets and plug types
(Tips for travelers from USA)

Travelers from USA need a power plug (travel) adapter but no voltage converter in Barbados.

Country of residence

Your destination
from🇺🇸 USA
to🇧🇧 Barbados
Voltage115 V
Frequency50 Hz
Outlet type APlug type A
A
Outlet type BPlug type B
B

In Barbados, they use power outlets and plugs of type A and type B. The voltage is 115 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz.

Travel adapter neededYou will need an adapter for type A power outlets in Barbados.
Frequency converter needed Be cautious with some devices due to the frequency difference.

Do power plugs from USA fit into Barbados outlets?

In Barbados, power outlets are of type A and B, similar to USA. A plug adapter is required for type A outlets. B outlets are compatible with your plugs, although they aren't always common in some areas.

sockets from🇧🇧 Barbados
plugs from🇺🇸 USA
Outlet type A
A
Plug type compatiblePlug type A
A
Plug type not compatiblePlug type B
B
Socket type not compatible

Your plug B does not match outlet type A.

Outlet type B
B
Plug type compatiblePlug type A
A
Plug type compatiblePlug type B
B
Socket type compatible

Your plugs match outlet type B.

Bring a grounding adapter to use your three-prong type B plugs in two-prong type A outlets.Bring a grounding adapter to use your three-prong type B plugs in two-prong type A outlets.

Power adapter for Barbados needed?

Since you'll need a travel adapter for Barbados when coming from USA, we suggest opting for a universal power adapter that works in many countries and will also prepare you for future trips.

We recommend getting a universal travel (plug) adapter that covers the most popular countries.
Universal Adapter
Ad

Make sure to get a power adapter for outlets of type A. If you often go abroad, consider getting an all-in-one adapter (most adapters even have additional charging ports for USB-A and USB-C).

Do I need a voltage converter for Barbados?

Barbados' voltage level of 115 V is quite similar to the 120 V system used in USA. These slight differences are usually considered by manufacturers.

Origin🇺🇸 USA
Destination🇧🇧 Barbados
Voltage120 V
Frequency60 Hz
Frequency
Voltage115 V
Frequency50 Hz
There is no need for a voltage converter in Barbados, when traveling from USA.

To confirm, check if your devices require a voltage converter by looking at the 'INPUT' label, typically found on the power adapter or charger. If the label shows "INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz," the device is built to handle different voltage and frequency ranges, meaning you'll only need a plug adapter for the outlets in Barbados. This is typical for devices such as notebooks, smartphones, digital cameras, and also for tablets, e-readers, and some battery chargers.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use my American hair dryer in Barbados?

Yes, you can use your American hair dryer in Barbados since the voltages are compatible (120 V and 115 V). However, due to the difference in frequency (60 Hz in USA, 60Hz in Barbados), the motor might run slightly differently. The hair dryer could heat up faster or slower but should still work. You do not need a voltage converter.

Can I use my American laptop or smartphone in Barbados?

Yes, your American laptop or smartphone will work in Barbados. Modern laptops and smartphones are designed to handle both 60 Hz and 50 Hz frequencies, so the frequency difference won’t be an issue.

Can I use my American curling iron or hair straightener in Barbados?

Yes, you should be able to use your American curling iron or flat iron in Barbados, as the voltage (120 V) is compatible. However, the difference in frequency (50 Hz in Barbados) could cause slight changes in performance. In most cases, the device should work, and a voltage converter is likely unnecessary. However, always make sure to check the label to verify compatibility with local standards.

If I live in USA, do I need a power plug adapter in Barbados?

Yes, when traveling from USA, you will need a power adapter for type A power outlets in Barbados.

Do I need a voltage converter for Barbados when traveling from USA?

No, you don't need a voltage converter because both countries use a similar voltage (120 V and 115 V). The only difference is frequency (60 Hz vs. 50 Hz), but most devices, especially modern electronics, can handle that.

Traveling to more countries?

See if your power plugs from USA fit into the sockets of other destinations and whether you need a voltage converter.

Adapter neededYou need a travel adapter
Converter neededYou need a voltage converter
Converter might be neededYou might need a voltage converter
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