Can You Use a Hair Dryer or Straightener Abroad?
Hair dryers, straighteners and curling irons are the devices most likely to burn out abroad, because many US models only work at 120 volts. Here's how to check yours, what a dual-voltage switch does, whether a converter is worth it and the simplest options for your trip.
By Pond.com editors Updated 2 min read
Quick answer
- Most of the world uses 220 to 240 volts, twice the US 120 volts.
- A US-only hair tool plugged into 230 volts with just a plug adapter can overheat, melt or burn out in seconds.
- Check the label. If it says 100–240V or has a voltage switch, it's dual voltage and only needs a plug adapter.
- Converters for high-wattage hair tools are bulky and often unreliable; a dual-voltage travel model is usually better.
- Most hotels provide a hair dryer, so you may only need to bring a straightener or curling iron.
Phone and laptop chargers work almost anywhere in the world with just a plug adapter. Hair tools are different. They're the devices travelers most often ruin abroad, sometimes in a puff of smoke on the first morning.
This article is general information. Always check the label on your own device.
Why hair tools are the problem
Most countries outside the Americas and Japan use 220 to 240 volts. A heating appliance built for 120 volts draws far more power at 230 volts than it's designed for, so it can overheat, melt or burn out very quickly. A plug adapter only changes the plug shape; it does nothing about voltage.
Check yours
Look at the label on the tool, the plug or the instruction booklet:
| Label says | What it means | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| 100–240V | Dual voltage, automatic | Just a plug adapter |
| 125V/250V switch | Dual voltage, manual | Switch it, plus a plug adapter |
| 120V or 110–125V | US only | A converter, or leave it at home |
Many straighteners and curling irons sold in the US are dual voltage, but many hair dryers aren't.
If your tool has a voltage switch
- Set it before you plug in, usually with a coin or the tip of a pen.
- Use a plug adapter that fits the outlet firmly. See travel plug adapters and voltage.
- Start on low heat and check it's behaving normally.
- Switch it back before using it at home, or it'll be weak and slow.
Should you buy a converter?
Hair dryers can use 1,500 watts or more, so you'd need a heavy-duty converter rated well above that. They're bulky, and cheaper ones can overheat. For most travelers, these are better options:
- Use the hotel's hair dryer, which most hotels and many vacation rentals provide. Ask before you go.
- Buy a dual-voltage travel model. Compact travel dryers and straighteners are inexpensive and much lighter than a converter.
- Buy one at your destination for a long stay.
Safety tips
- Never leave hot tools plugged in and unattended, especially with an adapter.
- Don't use a US power strip to plug in hair tools abroad.
- Unplug immediately if a tool smells of burning, sparks or gets unusually hot.
Common questions
Yes, as long as the switch is set to the right voltage, usually 220–240V for Europe and most of the world, and you use a plug adapter that fits securely. Some straighteners heat a little differently abroad, so start on a lower heat setting.
Usually yes. Japan uses the same plug shape and 100 volts, close to the US 120 volts, so most US hair dryers work, just with slightly less power. Check the label to be sure.
If it's a single-voltage US model, the higher voltage pushes far more power through the heating element than it's designed for. Unplug it straight away. It may already be damaged, so don't use it again until it's been checked.