How do I use my hair dryer in Aruba?

Aruban power outlet

Will my hairdryer work in Aruba?

Check that your hair dryer can work in Aruba:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 127 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you'll only need to use a suitable power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit in the outlet.

If not then either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with an 127 volt Aruban power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter changes the voltage but not the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of power outlet used in Aruba, so check that your voltage transformer has a power adapter for Aruba otherwise you will also need to bring a seperate power adapter. Note that your own personal hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you could risk damage in your suitcase. [9] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle the 127 volts used in Aruba you run the risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or a blown fuse. Prior to using your hair dryer in Aruba please read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Aruba

Will my hair dryer work in Aruba?

That will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 127 volts as used in Aruba:

Best travel hair dryers for Aruba

How to choose the best hair dryer for Aruba

Multiple speed options on a travel hair dryer

How to choose the best hair dryer for Aruba

When choosing the best travel hair dryer look for a sturdy but lightweight dual-voltage model that will operate with an 127 volt Aruban power outlet power outlet, has an ALCI safety plug, long power cord and a folding handle. When drying thicker hair look for a model which includes a diffuser that uses a faster 1600+ watt motor.

What to look for when purchasing a hair dryer?

  1. To work in Aruba your hair dryer has to be dual voltage.
  2. Don't be tempted to go for the cheapest travel dryer on the market, as well as issues with safety there is a greater chance that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to a poor construction.
  3. Modern hair dryers might feature a cool shot button for rapidly cooling down the hair after drying to hold in a style but this feature is lacking in smaller or cheaper models.
  4. The safest travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will reduce the danger of overloading the motor that could start electrical fires, you can recognise these by the the two reset and test switches on the plug.
  5. Try looking for a lightweight travel dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers with folding handles mean more room for packing other items.
  6. Thicker or curlier hair may require a hair dryer with a stronger motor - a high wattage ceramic model that includes a diffuser will dry hair faster to avoid damage.
  7. Some hotel rooms might have a wall mirror installed some distance away from a convenient power outlet making it hard to use the hair dryer, therefore when buying a hair dryer shop for the unit with the lengthiest power cord available.
  8. Ideal travel hair dryers should allow you to control both speed and temperature with low and high options; slower speeds with lower temperatures reduce damage to hair and faster hotter speeds can dry wet hair quickly.
  9. It could be more convenient to buy a hair dryer that is supplied with a diffuser and concentrator rather than scouring stores looking for more expensive 3rd party attachments.
What is the best travel hair dryer with a diffuser?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

What is the best travel hair dryer with a diffuser?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65 metre electric power cord, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser however lacks cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a longer 1.82m power cable for greater freedom when styling with an ALCI safety plug and removable filter for easy cleaning. It also has a strong 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it perfect for styling thicker hair.

Both ionic hair dryers include both concentrator and diffuser attachments with powerful motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. Each dryer is lightweight and folds up to fit in a carry-on bag and will only require a suitable plug adapter for Aruba to work with an Aruban power outlet.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage for Aruba?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium travel hair dryer

What is the best mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage for Aruba?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the cheapest mini ionic hairdryer available to buy, the 1200 watt ceramic dryer is suitable for quickly drying thin or fine hair whilst on the go.
  • For a hairdryer which is both lightweight and small enough to transport in a purse then a 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat for a glossier finish this dryer manages to incorporate options which are typically reserved for larger dryers.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used with the right power adapter for an Aruban power outlet they should work in Aruba folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried around during the day for styling on the go. They are 2 speed, have a 1.5 metre electric power cord and include a concentrator attachment.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is a good hair dryer for thick and curly hair?

Thicker hair takes much longer to dry and might be difficult to dry without your hair going frizzy. The best option for this type of hair is an ionic blow dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are suitable because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor that is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [10] [11] [AD]

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with cool shot for Aruba?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with cool shot for Aruba?

  • The Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and includes cool shot which can will rapidly cool hair down to give a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, uses a ceramic tourmaline outlet for negative ions meaning quicker and safer drying, two heat settings, a longer 1.8m power cable and also includes a concentrator attachment.

Both models fold, include an ALCI safety plug to prevent power overloads and has dual voltage making them perfect for travel to Aruba in carry on luggage when used with a power adapter for an Aruban power outlet.  [14] [14] [15] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel hair dryer for Aruba?

Conair
MiniPRO
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.
BaByliss
PRO
https://www.amazon.co.uk/BaByliss-Travel-2000-Hair-Dryer/dp/B0056FXFRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1520000711&sr=8-1&keywords=BaBylissPRO+Tourmaline+Titanium+Travel+Dryer&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=b63332fd20a821dec0b5e56af0330da8
Conair
Compact
https://www.amazon.co.uk/BaByliss-Travel-2000-Hair-Dryer/dp/B0056FXFRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1532458776&sr=8-1&keywords=Conair+dual+voltage+hair+dryer&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=f9cccd664854ebe2be03a43f6a0c7cce&language=en_GB
Berta
Folding
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Conair-Group-Ltd-5549U-TRESemme/dp/B00I4R4A84?crid=3P4NIYAG2C5JL&keywords=Ceramic+tourmaline+hair+dryer+concentrator+dual+voltage&qid=1695044687&sprefix=ceramic+tourmaline+hair+dryer+concentrator+dual+voltage%2Caps%2C65&sr=8-8&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=c6cca6f1cdf99277aafe116a9bf0d0ba&language=en_GB&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
X5
Superlite
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Red-Hot-37070-Professional-Settings/dp/B01G3E9R46?dchild=1&keywords=X5%2BSuperlite%2B1600W%2BDual%2BVoltage%2BCeramic%2BIonic%2BTravel%2BDryer&qid=1623853478&sr=8-9&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=dac34b2236e4574360f73c2fbe82110d&language=en_GB&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Hot Tools
1044
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Compact-Foldable-Lightweight-Portable-Technology/dp/B07HTWRMW5?crid=GOV3SFXX8LUZ&keywords=1875+watt+travel+dryer+with+folding+handle+and+dual+voltage&qid=1668535844&sprefix=1875+watt+travel+dryer+with+folding+handle+and+dual+votage%2Caps%2C49&sr=8-42&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=c1c76abbfb0ab79c7b377ec225918f66&language=en_GB&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Class Mini Compact Compact with diffuser
Works in Aruba 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.

Aruba power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Aruba?

The residential voltage in Aruba is 127 volts.

What electrical frequency is used in an Aruban power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current used in an Aruban power outlet is 60 Hz. [16]

Which power adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Aruba?

Type A, B and F power outlets

Which power adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Aruba?

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

  • Plug Type A - This ungrounded plug outlet (also known as the type A power outlet) is identified by the 2 adjacent slots where the twin plug socket blades slide into.
  • Plug Type B - You can recognise this plug outlet by the two slots next to each other for live and neutral blades with a single semicircular shaped hole below for the earth pin.
  • Plug Type F - You can recognise this plug outlet by the two large round adjacent holes for live and neutral pins along with a pair of thin grounding clips at the top and bottom.

A Type F plug adapter is suitable for powering a 127 volt hair dryer in Aruba; read the simple instructions below for full details of how to use a travel adapter for Aruba. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also need to use a power converter.  [6] [17] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer supports dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or the handle of your hair dryer. The location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer and should also state in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage hair dryers might change automatically but other hair dryer models will feature a button which allows you to toggle between different regions depending on which country you are in.

  • Single voltage could say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 127 volts used in Aruba then you should be able to use your hair dryer with an Aruban power outlet.
  • Single voltage might also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 127 volts used in an Aruban power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Aruba.
  • Dual voltage will say a larger voltage range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Aruba or any other country if these numbers are shown.

How do you use your dual voltage hair dryer in Aruba?

  1. Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it will operate with a 127 volt power outlet.
  2. If your dryer supports dual voltage then ensure it is switched to the 100-127v range. This is usually found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the power adapter for Aruba, also plug in the power adapter into the Aruban power outlet.
  4. The dryer can now be used with an Aruban power outlet.
  5. You can expect travel hair dryer models which came from a country that operates with 220-240 volts to work slower than usual when used in a country which uses 100-127 volt electricity.

How should you change the voltage on a dual voltage hair dryer?

  1. Most brands of dual voltage hair dryers have some type of switch or dial which changes between two ranges of voltages however some models can automatically detect the voltage used in Aruba.
  2. This switch or dial typically requires a small screwdriver or coin to set the dryer to the correct voltage between a 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
  3. In addition to switching this it's worth noting down both switch positions because the painted numbers can sometimes rub off on some models.

Travelling to Aruba with a hair dryer

Can you carry on a blow dryer to Aruba?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can you carry on a blow dryer to Aruba?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered blow dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA recommends that you should check that the airline which is flying you to Aruba will allow a hair dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing the blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible for airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of power cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping wires tightly around electronic items such as blow dryers). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against knocks and drops during your journey.   [18] [19] [20] [AD]

Is it better to bring a domestic hair dryer or a travel hair dryer to Aruba?

Bringing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing an existing hair dryer to Aruba as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 127 volt power outlets used with an Aruban power outlet (as long as you bring the correct power adapter for Aruba). Travel hair dryers typically feature a collapsible handle and will be lighter, this will help reduce the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer. Please be aware that bringing your expensive domestic blow dryer might place it at risk due to potential loss or damage in your luggage by airline baggage handlers. The cost involved in replacing or repairing an expensive quality hair dryer in Aruba could be higher than buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [19] [AD]

Do hotel rooms in Aruba have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Aruba have hair dryers?

It will all depend on the hotel or bed and breakfast and the quality of the accommodation. Hair dryers in hotel rooms are typically found in the bathroom, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or could be located in the bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer. In budget hotels, hostels and motels a communal hair dryer could be offered at reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer availability you can either telephone your hotel in Aruba or look on the hotel web site to find out what is available to guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are usable but typically rudimentary models lacking a diffuser, notorious for low heat and slower air speeds. For those worried about hygiene might want to remove the grime from previous guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

For travellers who don't want to take a chance that a suitable and germ-free hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer.  [2] [AD]

Power converters for Aruba

Do you need a power converter in Aruba to use your hair dryer?

A suitable voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 127 volt power outlet used in Aruba. A power converter is suitable for travellers wishing to bring their existing domestic hair dryer, however it might be more costly to purchase a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. A power converter is also considerably heavier and bulkier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable for packing. [9] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

An expensive and bulky power converter will convert a 127 volt Aruban power outlet to work with a non-127 volt hair dryer, but a more lightweight and cheaper power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Aruba. [9] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Aruba using a type B power adapter

How to power your hair dryer in Aruba with a 3 pronged Type B power charger.

  1. Make sure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 127 volt power supply but if it doesn't then don't continue because you might create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Dual voltage hair dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 127 volt setting to use in Aruba - consult the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. If the shape of the power outlet which is used in Aruba isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair dryer you'll need to bring a Type B plug adapter [4]. This Type B plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet used in Aruba by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 127 volt supply.
  3. Begin the process by plugging the Type B plug adapter into the power outlet. The power supply, technically called the Type B power outlet [3], can be recognised by 2 thin slots parallel to each other where the short two plug outlet blades slide into with a semicircle hole below for the long grounded pin.
  4. After that plug in your hair dryer into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Aruban power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Aruba using a type B power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Aruba using a type F power adapter

How to power your hair dryer in Aruba with a 2 pronged Type F power adapter.

  1. Please check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 127 volt power supply but if it doesn't then do not attempt these instructions as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Dual voltage hair dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 127 volt setting to use in Aruba - consult the user guide for more information on how to do this.
  2. You'll need to bring a Type F plug adapter [6] if the type of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the plug outlet which is used in Aruba. The Type F plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries into an electrical outlet found in Aruba simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 127 volt supply.
  3. Start by taking the Type F plug adapter and plugging it into the Aruban power outlet. This recessed round plug supply can be recognised by two circular holes 19 mm apart from each other where the two plug outlet pins slide into and a pair of thin grounding clips above and below.
  4. After that plug in your hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Aruban power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Aruba using a type F power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Aruba using a type A power adapter

Instructions showing how to use a hair dryer in Aruba using a Type A travel charger.

  1. Make sure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 127 volt power supply but if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions as you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Dual voltage hair dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 127 volt setting to use in Aruba - consult the user guide for more information on how to do this.
  2. Please check that you don't already own a hair dryer with a Type A plug - if it does then you won't need a power adapter (but still check that your hair dryer will work with a 127 volt power outlet). You'll need to buy a Type A plug adapter [8] if the shape of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Aruba. The Type A plug adapter will fit plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet in Aruba simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 127 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type A plug adapter into the Aruban power outlet. This plug supply (sometimes called the Type A power outlet [7]) is identified by the two slots where the twin blades slide into.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Aruban power outlet. The hair dryer can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Aruba using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Aruban country wikipedia page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  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 F power outlet
  6. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  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. 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..
  11. 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..
  12. 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..
  13. 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..
  14. 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..
  15. 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..
  16. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  17. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  18. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  19. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  20. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.