How to use your hair dryer in The British Virgin Islands
Can I use my blowdryer in The British Virgin Islands?
Check your hair dryer can work in The British Virgin Islands:
- If your hair dryer can run on 110 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you will only need to bring an appropriate power adapter for The British Virgin Islands listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit in the outlet.
If not then you can either:
- Use a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] - you might still need to use an appropriate power adapter for The British Virgin Islands but these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for the rigors of travelling. Read our recommendations for the best blow driers guaranteed to work in a British Virgin Islands power outlet, things to consider when purchasing a new travel hair dryer and a comparison table of six of the best dual voltage hair dryers to buy in 2023.
- Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 110 volt British Virgin Islands power outlet, however this is significantly heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter will change the voltage but not the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of wall outlet used in The British Virgin Islands, therefore check that the voltage transformer includes a power adapter for The British Virgin Islands otherwise you will need to bring another power adapter. Note - your existing hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you could risk potential damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Using a hair dryer in The British Virgin Islands
Will my hair dryer work in The British Virgin Islands?
That depends on if your hair dryer is designed to handle the 110 volts as used in The British Virgin Islands:
- If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to handle 110 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you'll be able to use it in The British Virgin Islands.
- If not then then you will need to consider bringing either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter. Read our section on can you use a voltage converter with a hair dryer in The British Virgin Islands for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]
Best travel hair dryers for The British Virgin Islands
How to choose the best hair dryer
When choosing the best travel hair dryer for The British Virgin Islands look for a strong but lightweight dual voltage model which works with a 110 volt British Virgin Islands power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, long power cord and ALCI safety plug. When drying thick hair look for a dryer with a faster 1600+ watt dryer and included diffuser.
9 tips for buying a travel hair dryer
- Try to look for lightweight travel hair dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers which have a folding handle mean more space.
- A modern blow dryer might include a cool shot option for rapidly cooling hair down after drying to hold in the style but this feature could be missing in cheaper models.
- The best travel hair dryers for styling should give control of both temperature and speed with two options; hotter faster speeds can dry thicker wet hair faster and a lower temperature with a slower speed can reduce damage to hair.
- To work with a 110 volt British Virgin Islands power outlet your travel hair dryer has to support dual voltage.
- Buying the cheapest dryer available could be risky, as well as concerns with safety there is also a greater chance that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to cheaper parts.
- It might be more convenient purchasing a dryer that includes a concentrator and diffuser instead of scouring stores looking for expensive 3rd party attachments which fit the unique dryer barrel size perfectly.
- Depending on the hotel room you could find they have a wall mirror installed away from a power outlet which could make it hard to style hair, therefore when buying a travel hair dryer look for the model with the lengthiest power cord possible.
- Safe travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will minimise the risk of overloading leading to starting electrical fires - models are identified with the 2 test and reset buttons.
- If you have thicker hair then you may need a hair dryer which has a more powerful motor; a higher wattage ceramic model which includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster to avoid damage.
Which is the best mini folding travel hair dryer with dual voltage?
- The Conair MiniPRO is the most cost effective small ionic blowdryer available on the market, the ceramic 1200 watt dryer is suitable for quickly drying fine and thin hair on the go.
- For a folding blow dryer which is both small and lightweight enough to carry in a purse then the 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat to protect against heat damage this dryer has options typically reserved for bulkier models.
Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used along with the right plug adapter for a British Virgin Islands power outlet they should work in The British Virgin Islands and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried around all day for drying on the go. Both have a 1.5 metre power cord, a twin speed motor and include a concentrator. [8] [8] [9] [AD]
Which is the best folding travel ionic hair dryer with a diffuser attachment?
- A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65m electric power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but lacks cool shot.
- The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a generous 1.82 metre power cord for greater flexibility when styling with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter for easy cleaning. With a strong 1875 watt motor it includes a cool shot button making it ideal for drying thick hair.
Each ionic hair dryer features both concentrator and diffuser with strong motors to make them the most suitable hair dryers for thick hair. They are both lightweight and will fold up to fit into carry-on baggage, only requiring a power adapter for The British Virgin Islands to work with a British Virgin Islands power outlet. [10] [10] [11] [AD]
Which is a good blow dryer for thick or curly hair?
Thick hair will take longer to dry and might be hard to dry without hair going frizzy, so the best option is an ionic dryer and for curly thick hair we suggest a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly without frizz. Both the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are recommended because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers, avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough. [10] [11] [AD]
Which is a good folding travel hair dryer for The British Virgin Islands?
- The Conair Compact Styler has a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and features cool shot that can will rapidly cool down hair to give a longer lasting hold.
- The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot button, uses a ceramic tourmaline air outlet for negative ions resulting in faster drying, 2 heat settings, a longer 1.8 metre power cord and includes a concentrator.
Both models fold, have an ALCI power plug which prevents power overloads and support dual voltage making both perfect for visiting The British Virgin Islands in carry on luggage when used along with a power adapter for a British Virgin Islands power outlet. [12] [12] [13] [AD]
Best hair dryers for travel
What is the best travel blow dryer for The British Virgin Islands?
Conair MiniPRO |
BaByliss PRO |
Conair Compact |
Berta Folding |
X5 Superlite |
Hot Tools 1044 |
|
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Class | Mini | Compact | Compact with diffuser | |||
Works in The British Virgin Islands | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Works in US | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Dual voltage | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Watts | 1200 | 1000 | 1875 | 1875 | 1600 | 1875 |
Folds | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Ceramic | Yes | Yes | • | Yes | Yes | • |
Ionic | Yes | • | • | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Tourmaline | • | Yes | • | Yes | Yes | • |
Infrared | • | Yes | • | • | • | • |
Speed settings | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
Heat settings | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
Cool shot | • | • | Yes | Yes | • | Yes |
Removable filter | • | Yes | • | • | • | Yes |
Concentrator | Yes | Yes | • | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Diffuser | • | • | • | • | Yes | Yes |
ALCI safety plug | • | Yes | Yes | Yes | • | Yes |
Cord length | 1.52m | 1.52m | 1.52m | 1.8m | 1.65m | 1.82m |
Color | • | • | • • | • • | • | • |
Buy | Buy | Buy | Buy | Buy | Buy |
Original testing and suitability of hair dryer models was compiled 2017, subsequent updates performed monthly - last updated September 2023.
The British Virgin Islands power outlets and plug sockets
What is the frequency used in The British Virgin Islands?
The frequency from a British Virgin Islands power outlet is 60Hz. [14]
What voltage is used in The British Virgin Islands?
Power outlets in The British Virgin Islands are 110 volts.
Which plug adapter do you need to use a hair dryer in The British Virgin Islands?
There are two types of power outlets used in The British Virgin Islands, types B and A with the primary power outlets being type B:
- Plug Type A - You can recognise the power socket by the 2 slots next to each other.
- Plug Type B - You can recognise the power outlet by 2 slots parallel to each other with a single semicircle shaped hole below for the slightly longer earthed pin.
A recommended power adapter to bring for using a 110 volt hair dryer in The British Virgin Islands is a Type B power adapter - read the step by step guide below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in The British Virgin Islands. Please note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to use a power converter. [4] [15] [AD]
Dual voltage hair dryers
How can you use your dual voltage blow dryer in The British Virgin Islands?
- First check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or that it works with a 110 volt power outlet.
- If your hair dryer supports dual voltage then make sure it is set to the 100-127 volt range. This is normally found on the base or handle of the blow dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to turn.
- Plug the dryer into the power adapter for The British Virgin Islands, then plug in the power adapter into the British Virgin Islands power outlet.
- The hair dryer can now be used with a British Virgin Islands power outlet.
- It's common on travel hair dryers which originated from a country that uses 220-240 volts to blow slower when plugged into a power outlet that supplies 100-127 volts.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?
One way to tell if your hair dryer supports dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the base, handle or the plug. The location will vary depending on the make or model of your hair dryer and could also state in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models can change automatically, however other hair dryers will feature a button which allows you to change between different voltages depending on which country you are visiting.
- A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 110 volts used in The British Virgin Islands then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a British Virgin Islands power outlet.
- A small voltage range with a dash such as 100-120V also indicates a single voltage hair dryer which can accomodate small voltage fluctuations. If the 110 volts used in a British Virgin Islands power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in The British Virgin Islands.
- A larger range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in The British Virgin Islands or any other country.
How can you change the voltage on a dual voltage travel hair dryer?
- Normal dual voltage hair dryers have some type of switch which changes between 2 voltages however some hair dryers can automatically detect the voltage from a British Virgin Islands power outlet.
- This dial or switch needs a screwdriver or coin to set the hair dryer to the correct voltage between the 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
- As well as switching this over it is worth making a note of the two switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to fading on some models.
Travelling to The British Virgin Islands with a hair dryer
Is it safe to bring a domestic hair dryer to The British Virgin Islands?
It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer rather than bringing an existing domestic blow dryer to The British Virgin Islands as it ensures that it will work with the 110 volt power outlets used with a British Virgin Islands power outlet (as long as you bring the correct plug adapter for The British Virgin Islands). Some models of travel hair dryer will typically feature a folding handle and will be much lighter, this helps reduce the size and weight when packed in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic blow dryer. Note that bringing an expensive domestic blow dryer could place it at risk because of potential loss or damage in your suitcase by airport baggage handlers in The British Virgin Islands. The cost and inconvenience involved in repairing an expensive quality domestic hair dryer in The British Virgin Islands might outweigh the costs of buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off . [16] [AD]
Do hotel rooms in The British Virgin Islands have hair dryers?
It will all depend on the hotel and the quality of the room. Hair dryers in hotels are normally found in the bathroom, these could be a slower air hose variety, or might be located in a bedroom wardrobe, drawer or cupboard.
When staying in budget motels, hostels and hotels a communal hair dryer might be offered at reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt as to hotel hairdryer availability you could either check on the hotel web site or call ahead to your hotel in The British Virgin Islands to find out what is available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are usable but are typically rudimentary models lacking a diffuser and notorious for low heat and slow air speeds. Those worried about hygiene should remove the grime from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.
Remember, if you are in doubt either telephone ahead to your hotel in The British Virgin Islands or use a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. [17] [AD]
Is a hair dryer allowed onboard a flight in The British Virgin Islands?
According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA recommends that you should verify that the airline who is flying you to The British Virgin Islands will allow a blow dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft.
Packing your blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible when going through airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cords tightly around electronic items such as hair dryers). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against knocks and drops during transit. [16] [18] [19] [AD]
Power converters for The British Virgin Islands
What is the difference between a power converter and a power adapter for The British Virgin Islands?
A lightweight, small and cheap power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in The British Virgin Islands, whereas a heavy and bulkier power converter transforms a 110 volt British Virgin Islands power outlet to work with a non-110 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]
Do you need a voltage converter to use your hair dryer in The British Virgin Islands?
The correct power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 110 volt power outlet used in The British Virgin Islands. A power converter is more suitable for travellers who want to use their own domestic hair dryer, but it might be more expensive to purchase a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be substantially smaller and lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for packing. [7] [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in The British Virgin Islands using a type B power adapter
Instructions showing how to power a hair dryer in The British Virgin Islands by using a 3 pinned Type B travel adapter.
- Ensure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 110 volt power outlet but if not then don't proceed because you may blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to the 110 volt setting for use in The British Virgin Islands, please consult the owners manual to find out how to do this.
- If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet which is used in The British Virgin Islands you'll need to buy a Type B power adapter [4]. The plug adapter helps fit plugs on appliances from other countries for use with an electrical outlet in The British Virgin Islands by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 110 volt supply.
- Plug in the Type B power adapter in the wall outlet. This wall supply (called a Type B power outlet [3]) is recognised by the two thin slots with a hole below for the earthed pin.
- Then plug in the hair dryer into the Type B power adapter.
- Turn on the British Virgin Islands power outlet.
- You can now turn on the blow dryer in The British Virgin Islands. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in The British Virgin Islands using a type A power adapter
Instructions showing how to power a hair dryer in The British Virgin Islands by using a 2 bladed Type A travel adapter.
- Check that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 110 volt power outlet but if not then don't proceed because you might create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Before using a travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to the 110 volt setting - please consult the owners manual to find out how to do this.
- This guide assumes that you're not already using a hair dryer with a Type A plug - if it does then you won't need a power adapter (but please check that your hair dryer will work with a 110 volt power supply). You'll need to buy a Type A power adapter [6] if the type of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the plug outlet used in The British Virgin Islands. This power adapter will convert plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet found in The British Virgin Islands simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 110 volt outlet.
- Begin by inserting the Type A power adapter in the wall outlet. You can recognise the power outlet by the 2 slots parallel to each other.
- Then plug in the hair dryer into the Type A power adapter.
- Turn on the British Virgin Islands power outlet.
- You can now turn on the blow dryer in The British Virgin Islands. [AD]
See also
External links
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- Wikipedia - British Virgin Islands page on wikipedia.org
- Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
- iec.ch - Type B power outlet
- Type B power 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..
- iec.ch - Type A power outlet
- Type A power 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..
- 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..
- BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - With dual heat and speed settings, the device aims to cater to a variety of hair types. Its dual voltage capability, folding handle and lightweight design make it suited for international travel..
- Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers..
- Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - The appliance integrates a 1875-watt motor, targeting quick and effective hair drying. The folding handle is intended for easier storage and transport..
- X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - This hair dryer boasts a 1600-watt motor intended for efficient hair drying. The long 1.65-meter cable provides an extra layer of convenience for users who require mobility during use..
- Berta 1875W Folding Hair Dryer Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Negative Ions Travel Dryer - This hair dryer features two speed and heat settings, dual-voltage and a foldable handle whilst equipped with an ALCI plug to help prevent electric shock..
- Conair 1875 Watt Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage - This travel-ready hair dryer uses a high 1875-watt motor for efficient and rapid hair drying. Smart voltage technology adjusts to foreign voltage, maintaining heat and speed settings for convenience..
- Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
- iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
- Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
- Dual voltage travel hair dryer - Features for a travel hair dryer include a foldable handle for easy packing, dual voltage for international use, and multiple heat and speed settings to accommodate different hair types..
- tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
- Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
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