Which travel adapter do you need when using a hair dryer in Antigua?
Can I use my blow dryer in Antigua?
First check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Antigua:
- If your hair dryer can run on 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can tell) then you'll only need to use an appropriate power adapter for Antigua listed below if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit.
If not then:
- Use a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] - you could need to use the correct power adapter for Antigua but these lightweight accessories are designed specifically for the rigors of travel. Before buying read nine things to look for when buying a new travel blow dryer, six of the best hair dryers compared and comprehensive recommendations for the best dual voltage blow driers guaranteed to work in Antigua.
- Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with an 230 volt Antiguan power outlet, however this is substantially heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but won't change the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of power outlet used in Antigua, therefore please check that the power converter includes a suitable power adapter for Antigua otherwise you will need to purchase another power adapter. Please note - your existing hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you risk potential damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Using a hair dryer in Antigua
Will my hair dryer work in Antigua?
This depends on if your hair dryer can handle the 230 volt power outlets used in Antigua. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to operate using 230 volts and you have the appropriate plug adapter then you should be able to use the hair dryer in Antigua. If not then you will need to consider buying either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter, read our guide on can you use a power converter to use a domestic hair dryer in Antigua for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]
Best travel hair dryers for Antigua
Choosing the best travel blow dryer
When choosing the best hair dryer for Antigua look for a robust but lightweight dual-voltage model that will work with an 230 volt Antiguan power outlet power outlet, includes a folding handle, long power cord and an ALCI safety plug. If drying thick hair buy a dryer with a faster 1600+ watt motor and bundled diffuser.
What to look for when purchasing a hair dryer?
- Instead of looking for more expensive 3rd party attachments it could be more convenient and cheaper buying a dryer which includes both a concentrator and a diffuser from the manufacturer as these should fit perfectly.
- Depending on your hotel room in Antigua there could be a wall mirror installed away from a outlet which could make it cumbersome to style hair, so when buying a travel blow dryer find the longest power cord possible or pack either a power extension cord or a hand mirror.
- Ideal travel hair dryers will give control of the speed and temperature with high and low options; a slower speed with a lower temperature will reduce damage to your hair whereas a hotter faster speed will dry thicker wet hair quickly.
- If you have curlier or thicker hair then you could need a travel hair dryer with a stronger motor - a high wattage ceramic model that includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster to prevent damage.
- The safest travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which reduces the risk of overloading the motor that could start electrical fires; you can recognise these models by the the two reset and test switches on the plug.
- Try looking for lightweight travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, dryers with folding handles mean more room for packing other items.
- You shouldn't risk getting the cheapest travel dryer on the market, as well as safety issues there is also a greater risk that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to a poor construction.
- A cool shot feature on a modern hair dryer can rapidly cool hair down after drying to hold the style but this option might be lacking in more compact models.
- A travel hair dryer needs to support dual voltage in order to work with an 230 volt Antiguan power outlet.
What is a good dual voltage travel hair dryer?
- The Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and includes a cool shot setting that can be used to quickly cool down hair to give a long lasting hold.
- The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, uses a tourmaline ceramic air outlet resulting in safer and quicker drying, two heat settings, a longer 1.8m power cable and comes with a concentrator.
Both models fold, include an ALCI safety plug to prevent power overloads and has dual voltage making both ideal for visiting Antigua in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for an Antiguan power outlet. [8] [8] [9] [AD]
What is a good hair dryer for thick hair?
Thick hair can take longer to dry and can be difficult to dry without your hair going frizzy. The best option for this type of hair is an ionic hair dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage 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 which is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair. [10] [11] [AD]
What is the best mini dual voltage travel hair dryer for Antigua?
- A Conair MiniPRO is the most cost effective mini ionic hairdryer available to buy, the 1200 watt ceramic dryer is suitable for quickly drying fine or thin hair whilst on the go.
- A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is both lightweight and small enough to transport in a purse because of a 10.5oz body and folding handle that includes options found on larger dryers such as a tourmaline outlet which can emit infrared heat to protect from heat damage during use which results in a shiny finish.
Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used with the right power adapter for an Antiguan power outlet they should work in Antigua folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried for drying on the go. Both have a 1.5m power cord, have a twin speed motor and include a concentrator attachment. [12] [12] [13] [AD]
What is a good dual voltage ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment for Antigua?
- A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65 metre electric power cable, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but it is missing a cool shot feature.
- The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a generous 1.82m power cable for more flexibility when drying with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter to clean easily. With a strong 1875 watt motor it also has a cool shot feature making it more suited for drying thick hair.
Both ionic travel hair dryers feature a concentrator and diffuser with strong enough motors to make them the most suitable blow dryers for thick hair. Both will require a suitable cheap power adapter for Antigua to work with an Antiguan power outlet, each dryer is lightweight and folds up to fit in carry-on baggage. [10] [11] [11] [AD]
Best hair dryers for travel
Which is the best travel blow dryer to buy for Antigua?
Conair MiniPRO |
BaByliss PRO |
Conair Compact |
Berta Folding |
X5 Superlite |
Hot Tools 1044 |
|
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Class | Mini | Compact | Compact with diffuser | |||
Works in Antigua | 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.
Antigua power outlets and plug sockets
What is the electrical frequency used in Antigua?
The frequency in an Antiguan power outlet is 60Hz. [14]
What mains voltage is used in Antigua?
Power outlets in Antigua are 230 volts.
Which plug adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in Antigua?
There are two different types of power outlets used in Antigua, these are type B and A with the primary power outlets being type B:
- Plug Type A - You can recognise this plug outlet by the two adjacent slots next to each other for live and neutral.
- Plug Type B - The power outlet, technically called a type B power outlet, can be recognised by 2 thin slots parallel to each other for live and neutral blades with a semicircle hole below for the grounded pin.
A suitable travel adapter to bring to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Antigua is a Type B power adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Antigua using a power adapter. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to see if you also have to bring a power converter. [4] [15] [AD]
Dual voltage hair dryers
How do you use your dual voltage hair dryer in Antigua?
- Check that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or it works with a 230 volt power socket.
- If your dryer supports dual voltage then ensure it is set to work in the 220-240V range. The switch is normally found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to switch.
- Plug the hair dryer into the power adapter for Antigua and then plug in the power adapter into the Antiguan power outlet.
- It is common on most travel hair dryer models operating within the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on their lowest setting, however this temperature and speed should be sufficient for drying hair. Always check the manufacturers instructions to see if this rule is relevant for your model of dual voltage hair dryer to avoid the risk of overheating.
- Your hair dryer is now ready to be used with an Antiguan power outlet.
How do you switch the voltage on a dual voltage travel hair dryer?
- Normal dual voltage hair dryers have a switch which selects between two types of voltages although some dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from an Antiguan power outlet.
- The dial or switch will normally require a small screwdriver or coin to change the hair dryer to the right voltage between the 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
- Also it is worth making a note of the 2 switch positions as the painted numbers are prone to rubbing off on certain models.
How can you tell if your hair dryer is dual voltage?
The method to tell if your hair dryer can accept a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or the plug. This location will depend on the make or model of your hair dryer and should also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models will change automatically, however other hair dryers will have a button or switch which allows you to toggle between different regions.
- Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Antigua then you should be able to use your hair dryer with an Antiguan power outlet.
- Single voltage could also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 230 volts used in an Antiguan power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Antigua.
- Dual voltage will typically say a large range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Antigua or any other country if these numbers are shown.
Travelling to Antigua with a hair dryer
Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Antigua?
Depending on the hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer might be available in the room, either packed away in a bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard, found in the bathroom or could potentially be a slower air hose variety.
When staying in budget hotels, motels and hostels a communal hair dryer could be offered at the reception but might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer policy you could either check on the booking web site or call ahead to the hotel in Antigua to find out if a suitable hairdryer available to guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are usable but typically rudimentary models with no diffuser and notorious for low heat and providing slow air speeds. For those worried about hygiene might want to remove any burnt hair from other guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.
Travellers who aren't sure 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 or phone their hotel in Antigua to check before travelling. [16] [AD]
Is it better to bring a travel hair dryer or domestic blow dryer to Antigua?
It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to bringing your existing domestic blow dryer to Antigua as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with an Antiguan power outlet (as long as you bring the correct power adapter for Antigua). Some types of travel hair dryer will normally 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 an airport baggage handler in Antigua. The inconvenience and costs involved in replacing or repairing an expensive quality hair dryer in Antigua could be higher than purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off . [17] [AD]
Can you carry on a blow dryer to Antigua?
According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on 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 Antigua 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 cables 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 bumps during your journey. [17] [18] [19] [AD]
Power converters for Antigua
What is the difference between a voltage converter and a power adapter?
An expensive and heavy power converter converts the voltage of 230 volts from an Antiguan power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, however a more lightweight and smaller power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Antigua. [7] [AD]
Do I need a power converter to use a hair dryer in Antigua?
The correct model of power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 230 volt power outlet used in Antigua. A power converter is more suited for travellers wishing to bring their own hair dryer, however it might be considerably less expensive to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to purchase a power converter. A power converter is also significantly bulkier and heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suited for travelling compared to a travel hair dryer. [7] [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Antigua using a type B power adapter
How to power a hair dryer in Antigua using a Type B travel charger.
- Please check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply; but if not then do not proceed 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 230 volt setting to use in Antigua, please refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on how to do this.
- You'll need to bring a Type B power adapter [4] if the type of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Antigua. The Type B power adapter will adapt plugs from other countries into a power outlet in Antigua 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 230 volt supply.
- Start by plugging the Type B power adapter into the Antiguan power outlet. This plug supply (sometimes called the Type B power outlet [3]) is identified by the two slots where the twin blades slide into with a single hole below for the slightly long grounded pin.
- Plug in the hair dryer into the Type B power adapter.
- Switch on the Antiguan power outlet. The hair dryer can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Antigua using a type A power adapter
A page showing how to use a hair dryer in Antigua using a three pronged Type A power adapter.
- Please check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 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 230 volt setting to use in Antigua - consult the user guide for more information on how to do this.
- 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 please check that your hair dryer will work with a 230 volt power supply). You will need to use a Type A power adapter [6] if the shape of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Antigua. The Type A power adapter will help fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet in Antigua simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
- Begin the process by plugging the Type A power adapter into the Antiguan power outlet. You can identify the power supply by the two slots next to each other for live and neutral blades.
- Plug in the hair dryer into the Type A power adapter.
- Switch on the Antiguan power outlet. The hair dryer should now be ready for use. [AD]
See also
External links
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- Wikipedia - Wikipedia.org web page about Antigua
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
- iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
- 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..
- Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
- 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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