How do I use my hair dryer in Ecuador?

Ecuadorian power outlet

Will my hairdryer work in Ecuador?

Check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Ecuador:

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with an 120 volt Ecuadorian power outlet, however this is considerably heavier, bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter changes the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Ecuador, so check that your voltage transformer has a power adapter for Ecuador otherwise you will also need to bring another power adapter. Also worth noting that your own personal hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you risk potential damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 120 volts used in Ecuador you run the risk of an electrical fire hazard, a blown fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Before using your hair dryer in Ecuador check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Ecuador

Will my hair dryer work in Ecuador?

That will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 120 volt power outlets in Ecuador:

Best travel hair dryers for Ecuador

How to choose the best hair dryer for Ecuador

A dual voltage switch on a travel hair dryer

How to choose the best hair dryer for Ecuador

When looking for the best travel hair dryer choose a robust but light dual voltage dryer which operates with an 120 volt Ecuadorian power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, a safety plug and a long power cord. For drying thicker hair look for a model which includes a diffuser that uses a higher 1600+ watt motor.

Things to look for when buying a new hair dryer

  1. Thicker or curlier hair might need a travel hair dryer with a stronger motor - a high wattage ceramic model which has a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby preventing damage.
  2. The safest travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which reduces the risk of overloading the motor and starting a fire - these are identified with 'test' and 'reset' buttons.
  3. Depending on the accommodation there might be a fixed mirror installed some distance away from a outlet which makes it cumbersome to style hair, so look for the longest power cord possible.
  4. It could be more convenient and cheaper to buy a hair dryer that is supplied with a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer instead of scouring shops looking for more expensive 3rd party attachments which fit the unique barrel size securely.
  5. Buying the cheapest travel dryer available might be risky - as well as concerns with safety there is a greater risk that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to cheaper components.
  6. Ideal travel hair dryers for styling should allow you to alter both speed and temperature with different options, lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to hair and faster hotter speeds will quickly dry wet hair.
  7. To function in Ecuador your hair dryer has to be dual voltage.
  8. The 'cool shot' button on a modern hair dryer can rapidly cool hair down after drying which will hold the style but this option might be lacking in more compact models.
  9. Try looking for lightweight travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, dryers with folding handles mean more room.
What is a good folding dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot for Ecuador?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with attached concentrator

What is a good folding dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot for Ecuador?

  • Using a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features cool shot which can be used to quickly cool down hair.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, uses a tourmaline ceramic air outlet resulting in faster drying, two heat settings, a longer 1.8m power cable and comes with a concentrator attachment.

Both models fold, include an ALCI safety plug to prevent overloading and support dual voltage making them perfect for travel to Ecuador in carry on luggage when used with a power adapter for an Ecuadorian power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is a good blow dryer for thick curly hair?

Thicker hair takes much longer to dry and might be difficult to dry without the hair turning frizzy, so the best option will be an ionic dryer, if the hair is curly use a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly. Both an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic are recommended as they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included 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?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium

What is the best mini dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  • For drying fine or thin hair whilst on the go then a 1200 watt ceramic Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable small ionic hairdryer available to buy.
  • For a folding dryer which is both lightweight and small enough to transport in a handbag then the 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage this dryer has features normally found on bulkier hairdryers.

Both of these mini hair dryers have dual voltage when used along with a suitable power adapter for an Ecuadorian power outlet they should work in Ecuador folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried around during the day for styling on the go. Both include a concentrator attachment, have 1.5 metre power cables and a two speed motor.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is the best travel hair dryer with a diffuser for Ecuador?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

What is the best travel hair dryer with a diffuser for Ecuador?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65 metre electric power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but it is missing a cool shot feature.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a lengthy 1.82 metre electric power cord for more flexibility when drying with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter for cleaning. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it includes cool shot making it perfect for styling thicker hair.

Both ionic hair dryers include both concentrator and diffuser attachments with powerful enough motors to make them the most suitable blow dryers for thick hair. They are lightweight and will fold up to pack into carry-on luggage and only require a cheap power adapter for Ecuador to fit into an Ecuadorian power outlet.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best hair dryer for Ecuador?

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 Ecuador 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.

Ecuador power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Ecuador?

The residential voltage in Ecuador is 120 volts.

What electrical frequency is used in an Ecuadorian power outlet?

The frequency of the current from an Ecuadorian power outlet is 60 Hz. [14]

Which plug adapter will you need for using a hair dryer in Ecuador?

Type A and B power outlets

Which plug adapter will you need for using a hair dryer in Ecuador?

There are two types of power outlets used in Ecuador, these are type B and A with the primary power outlets being type B:

  • Plug Type A - The power socket, technically called a type A power outlet, can be recognised by 2 thin adjacent slots for live and neutral blades.
  • Plug Type B - The power outlet, technically called a type B power outlet, can be recognised by the 2 slots for live and neutral blades with a single semicircular shaped hole below for the earth pin.

A suitable travel adapter to bring to use a 120 volt hair dryer in Ecuador is a Type B plug adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of using a hair dryer in Ecuador using a travel adapter. Please note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to check if you have to bring a power converter.  [4] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

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

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have a switch which selects between two voltages although some hair dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from an Ecuadorian power outlet.
  2. The dial or switch requires either a coin or screwdriver to change the hair dryer to the right voltage between a 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
  3. Also it's worth noting down both switch positions because the painted numbers can sometimes rub off on certain models.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer supports a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, handle or base. This location will depend on the make or model of your hair dryer, it could also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models will change automatically, however other hair dryers will feature a button which allows you to operate between different regions.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 120 volts used in Ecuador then you should be able to use your hair dryer with an Ecuadorian 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 120 volts used in an Ecuadorian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Ecuador.
  • A large range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Ecuador or any other country.

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

  1. Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or it works with a 120 volt power socket.
  2. If your dryer supports dual voltage then make sure that it is set to operate within the 100-127 volt range. The switch is normally found on the handle or base of the hair dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to turn.
  3. Plug your dryer into the correct power adapter for Ecuador and then plug in the power adapter into the Ecuadorian power outlet.
  4. The dryer can now be used in Ecuador.
  5. 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.

Travelling to Ecuador with a hair dryer

Can I carry on a blow dryer to Ecuador in my hand luggage?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I carry on a blow dryer to Ecuador in my hand luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA recommends that you should check that the airline which is flying you to Ecuador 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 and should avoid a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping wires tightly around hair dryers). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against drops and knocks during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Do hotel rooms in Ecuador have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Ecuador have hair dryers?

Depending on the hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer might be available in the hotel room, either packed in the bedroom wardrobe, cupboard or drawer, found in the bathroom or could potentially be a slower air hose variety.

When staying in budget hotels, hostels and motels a communal hair dryer could be offered at the reception but could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer availability you can either telephone your hotel in Ecuador or look on the hotel web site to find out if a suitable hairdryer available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but are normally basic models lacking a diffuser and notorious for providing slow air speeds and low heat. Those concerned with hygiene should 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 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]

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

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer rather than packing an existing domestic hair dryer to Ecuador (typically marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 120 volt power outlets used with an Ecuadorian power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Ecuador). Travel hair dryers typically feature a folding handle and are much lighter which helps in reducing the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer. Be aware that packing your expensive domestic blow dryer might place it at risk due to potential loss or damage in your luggage by an airline baggage handler in Ecuador. The inconvenience and costs involved in replacing or repairing an expensive quality blow dryer in Ecuador might overshadow the costs of purchasing a much cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case beforehand to bring along .  [17] [AD]

Power converters for Ecuador

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

Voltage converter

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

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Ecuador, however a heavier and more expensive power converter converts the voltage of 120 volts from an Ecuadorian power outlet to work with a non-120 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

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

A suitable power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 120 volt power outlet used in Ecuador. A power converter is more suitable for travellers who wish to bring along their own hair dryer, however it might be more costly to purchase a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also, a travel hair dryer can be noticeably lighter and smaller than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for travelling. [7] [AD]

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

A page showing how to use a hair dryer in Ecuador with a 3 pronged Type B power charger.

  1. Please check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 120 volt power supply - if not then do not proceed as you might create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer make sure the switch is set to accept 120 volts for use in Ecuador, consult the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Ecuador you'll need to buy a Type B plug adapter [4]. This plug adapter will help fit plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet used in Ecuador by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 120 volt supply.
  3. Start by inserting the Type B plug adapter into the Ecuadorian power outlet. The wall outlet, sometimes known as a Type B power outlet [3], can be recognised by 2 thin slots where the live and neutral blades slide into with a single hole below for the slightly long earth pin.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Ecuadorian power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Ecuador using a type B power adapter

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

How to power your hair dryer in Ecuador with a Type A travel charger.

  1. Please check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 120 volt power outlet - if not then do not proceed as you might blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer make sure the switch is set to accept 120 volts to use in Ecuador - consult the owners manual for more details 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 please check that your hair dryer will work with a 120 volt power supply). You'll need to bring a Type A plug adapter [6] if the type of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the power outlet which is used in Ecuador. The Type A plug adapter will fit plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet in Ecuador simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 120 volt outlet.
  3. Start by plugging the Type A plug adapter into the power outlet. You can identify the wall outlet by the two slots next to each other for live and neutral blades.
  4. Then plug in your hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Ecuadorian power outlet. You can now switch on the hair dryer in Ecuador. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Ecuador using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia.org web page about Ecuador
  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 A power outlet
  6. 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..
  7. 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..
  8. 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..
  9. 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..
  10. 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..
  11. 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..
  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. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  15. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  16. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  17. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.