Traveling To Belize? Don't Forget Your Outlet Adapter

If you're travelling to Belize, you may need to bring a power adapter so you can use your electronic devices. The type of power adapter you'll need depends on the voltage and type of device you're trying to power. Belize has three types of power supply: type G, A and B. Type A has two flat parallel pins, type B has two flat parallel pins and a round grounding pin, and type G has three rectangular pins in a triangle pattern. The voltage in Belize is 110/220V, and the standard frequency is 60Hz. If you're from the US, you may not need a power adapter as the voltage and plug type are the same as in Belize. However, in some cases, you may encounter a type G outlet with a three-prong socket, which will require an adapter. It's recommended to bring a portable power bank in case of power outages, which are common in Belize.

Plug type A has two flat pins and is mainly used in the US, Central America, China, and Japan

Plug type A, also known as the NEMA 1-15, has two flat parallel blades or pins. It is mainly used in the US, Central America, China, and Japan, but can also be found in several other countries. This type of plug is typically used for smaller devices that do not require a ground connection.

In the US, the Type A plug was invented in 1904 by Harvey Hubbell II, and its design has remained largely unchanged since then. However, it is considered unsafe by international standards due to the lack of insulation and the risk of electrocution or shock. As a result, it has been outlawed for use in new construction in the US since 1965.

Despite this, Type A plugs are still commonly used in various countries, including Belize, which primarily uses Type A and Type B plugs. If you are travelling to Belize from a country that uses a different plug type, such as the UK, you will need to bring a suitable plug adapter. It is worth noting that some areas in Belize may not have access to electricity or may experience power blackouts, so it is recommended to pack a portable power bank as well.

Plug type B has two flat pins and a round grounding pin and also works with type A sockets

If you are travelling to Belize and are wondering if you need a special outlet, the answer is maybe. Belize uses three types of power supply: type G, type A, and type B. If you are coming from the US, you will likely have type A or type B plugs, which have two flat pins. Type B plugs also have a round grounding pin and are compatible with type A sockets.

Type B plugs are also known as American standard NEMA 5-15 and have two flat parallel pins that are 1.5 mm thick and spaced 12.7 mm apart. The length of the pins is between 15.9 and 18.3 mm, and the width is between 6.3 and 7.9 mm. The earth pin is 4.8 mm in diameter and is longer than the flat pins to ensure the appliance is grounded before power is applied. Type B plugs are used for currents up to 15 A and have an amp rating of 15 A and a voltage range of 100-127 V.

While type B plugs will work with type A sockets, it is recommended that you bring a plug adapter for type G sockets, which are also used in Belize. Type G sockets can be recognised by their three rectangular holes in a triangular pattern. If you are bringing devices with three-pronged plugs, you will definitely need an adapter, as outlets in Belize rarely have three holes.

Plug type G has three rectangular pins in a triangle formation and is used in the UK

If you're travelling to Belize from the US, you may need to bring a plug adapter for your electrical devices. Belize uses three types of power supply: type G, A and B. Type G plugs have three rectangular pins in a triangle formation and are used in the UK. If your device can run on 110 volts or is dual voltage and your plug fits in a Belizean power outlet, you won't need anything else. However, if your device can run on 110 volts or is dual voltage but your plug doesn't fit, you will need to bring a suitable plug adapter such as a Type G power adapter.

Type G plugs have three rectangular pins in a triangle formation. The central earth pin is 4mm by 8mm and 22.7mm long, while the line and neutral pins are 4mm by 6.35mm and 17.7mm long. The distance between the earth pin and the middle of the imaginary line connecting the two power pins is 22.2mm. Type G plugs also include a fuse, usually a 3A fuse for smaller appliances like computers, or a 13A fuse for larger appliances like heaters.

In addition to the correct plug type, it's important to check the voltage of your devices. Belize uses 110 volts, the same as the US, so American devices should work without a voltage converter. However, if your device doesn't run on 110 volts and isn't dual voltage, you will need a power converter for Belize to change the voltage to the correct level for your device.

It's worth noting that some areas in Belize do not have access to electricity and suffer from power blackouts, so it's recommended to pack a portable power bank if you want to keep your devices charged.

US travellers will need a power adapter for types A and G sockets

If you're a US traveller heading to Belize, you'll need to bring a power adapter to be able to plug into the types A and G sockets used in the country.

Type A sockets can be recognised by their two thin, adjacent slots, while type G sockets have three rectangular holes in a triangular pattern.

Belize's electricity supply is 110 volts, the same as in the US, so you won't need a voltage converter. However, it's worth noting that some areas in Belize don't have access to electricity and suffer from power blackouts, so it's a good idea to bring a portable power bank if you want to be able to charge your devices.

You may need a voltage converter if the voltage exceeds the maximum limit or is too low for your devices

Voltage Converters for Travelling to Belize

Belize uses 110 volt electricity, the same as the US. If you are travelling to Belize from the US, you will not need a voltage converter, as long as you are bringing devices that can run on 110 volts.

However, if you are travelling to Belize from a country that uses a different voltage, you will need to check if your devices can run on 110 volts. If they cannot, you will need to bring a voltage converter.

When You Need a Voltage Converter

You may need a voltage converter if the voltage in Belize exceeds the maximum limit or is too low for your devices. Voltage converters are necessary when travelling from a country that uses a different voltage, such as 220-240 volts, to one that uses 110 volts, like Belize.

How to Tell if You Need a Voltage Converter

To determine if you need a voltage converter for your devices, check the label on the power plug or the appliance itself. If it states a specific number, like 110V, then it is a single voltage device. If it states a small voltage range, like 220-240V, then it is also a single voltage device. If it states a large voltage range, like 110/240V, then it is a dual voltage device.

Dual voltage devices can typically be used in every country in the world and will only need a power plug adapter. However, if your device is a single voltage device that cannot run on 110 volts, you will need to bring a voltage converter to Belize.

Benefits of a Voltage Converter

A voltage converter will ensure a safe input voltage level for your devices in Belize. They are designed for electrical appliances that generate heat or use motors, like clothes irons or hair dryers.

Disadvantages of a Voltage Converter

Voltage converters are typically bulkier and more expensive than power plug adapters. They may also be less convenient to carry, especially if you are only bringing hand luggage.

Alternatives to a Voltage Converter

If you are only bringing USB-powered devices, like mobile phones or tablets, you may only need a USB travel power adapter that is dual voltage. This will allow you to charge multiple devices at once and is more lightweight and compact for travelling.

If you are only bringing low-wattage electrical items, like cameras, you may not need a voltage converter. Travel power strips can also be used for low-wattage devices, but they are bulkier and may not work with high-wattage appliances.

Planning Ahead

Before travelling to Belize, it is important to check how many electrical items you are bringing and what types of devices they are. If you are bringing multiple devices, a travel power strip or USB wall charger with multiple ports may be more convenient.

Additionally, consider whether you will have reliable access to electricity in Belize. There may be power outages or limited access to power in certain areas. In that case, you may want to bring a portable power bank or solar-powered charger as a backup option.

Frequently asked questions