Whether you're planning a trip across the pond or a far-flung adventure to the South Pacific, it's important to understand the voltage and plugs used by the country you are visiting in order to use your hair dryer. Remember that a converter transforms voltage so you don't blow up your hair dryer, and an adapter allows you to change the shape of the plug to fit a power outlet.
Basic Electricity Guide
If you plan on traveling with a single-voltage device, like a hair dryer, you need to know the power supply at your destination to ensure you can use it safely. Traveling outside the U.S. can be tricky if your appliance doesn't have dual voltage; if this is the case, you'll need a converter and an adapter. Whereas electricity in the United States is typically 120 volts (at 60 Hz), many countries around the world use 220-240 volts (at 50 or 60 Hz).
Worldstandards offers a list of plugs, sockets, and the voltage used by each country, helping you determine the adapter, plug configuration, and converter you will need. Look on the handle or near the cord of your hair dryer to check if it is dual-voltage; it should say 110/240V. If not, you may need a converter. Some devices have a toggle switch for switching between voltages.
Adapter and Converter Choices
It's important to keep in mind that there are two different kinds of converters: the types that run heating appliances such as hair dryers and curling irons that use a lot of power and those that use less power for razors, computers, and camcorders. Not all converters and adapters are made alike, and it can take a good amount of research to find the best of the best. Our pick for the best travel hair dryer adapter combines convenience, affordability, and packability for a product that's a step above the rest.
Hyted 2000 Watt Travel Adapter/Converter
An all-in-one option that can be used in 120 countries, the Hyted 2000 Watt Travel Adaptor and Converter is powerful enough for hair dryers while still being extremely compact and easy to fit into a suitcase or carry-on. Weighing only 4.8 ounces, it is one of the smallest converters on the market that offers a special hair dryer mode. This device has a built-in short circuit and surge protector and comes with a lifetime guarantee. It's received over 1,900 perfect five-star ratings on Amazon, and though customers are very happy with this product, it was noted that the design does not work well in New Zealand power outlets, so keep that in mind if you're planning a trip to NZ. Tripsavvy includes this Hyted option among its list of best travel adapters; it is the only converter they recommend that can be used with a hair dryer.
Know Before You Go
If you are planning to travel internationally with a 110V single-voltage hair dryer, make sure you know what type of adapter you need and double-check that the converter you bring with you is made for hair dryers. Make sure you purchase your converters and adapters before you travel, as they can be surprisingly difficult to find abroad.
