Using a UK hair dryer abroad: voltage, plugs and adapters

Read the rating label first

Every hair dryer sold in the UK has a rating label, usually on the handle or near the cable entry. It shows the voltage range, the frequency and the power in watts. A UK-only dryer typically shows something like 220 to 240 V. A dual-voltage dryer shows a wide range such as 100 to 240 V, or has a voltage selector switch.

Many premium dryers sold in the UK are made for UK mains only. Several current UK listings, including the Supersonic Nural, Airwrap Origin and Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1, list 240 V. Always check your own dryer's label rather than assuming.

Voltage and plugs around the world

The UK runs on 230 V at 50 Hz, with BS 1363 three-pin plugs. Most of continental Europe also uses 230 V at 50 Hz but with two-pin plugs. North America uses around 120 V at 60 Hz with flat-pin plugs. Other regions vary, so check your destination before you go.

Adapter versus converter

A plug adapter only changes the shape of the plug so it fits the foreign socket. It does nothing to the voltage. That is all you need in Europe, Australia and other 230 V countries. Choose a well-made adapter that can carry the current your dryer draws.

A voltage converter or transformer changes the voltage. Small travel converters are usually designed for low-power devices such as chargers and are not suitable for hair dryers, which draw 1,300 to 2,400 W. Converters that can handle that load are large and heavy. For travel to 120 V countries, a dual-voltage travel dryer is usually the simpler answer.

Note:Never plug a 230 V-only dryer into a 120 V supply via an adapter and hope for the best, and never use a dual-voltage dryer on the wrong setting. Do not use damaged adapters, and unplug the dryer when you finish. Any faults with sockets or wiring at your accommodation should be reported, not fixed yourself.

Dual-voltage dryers

A dual-voltage dryer works on both 120 V and 230 V supplies, either automatically or via a switch. They are usually compact travel dryers. On 120 V, a dryer draws more current for the same power, so some dual-voltage models run at reduced power abroad. Check the label and the manual for details.

If you use a dryer with a voltage switch, set it correctly before plugging in and switch it back when you return home. Our amps at the socket tool shows how the current changes between 230 V and 120 V for a given wattage.

1. 1

   Check the rating label for a wide voltage range or a switch.

2. 2

   Set any voltage switch to match the destination before plugging in.

3. 3

   Use a sturdy plug adapter for the local socket.

4. 4

   Plug straight into the wall rather than a power strip.

5. 5

   Switch back to the UK setting when you get home.

Choosing a dryer for travel

For trips within Europe, your normal dryer plus an adapter is usually fine, so the main consideration is weight and size. For trips to the US or Japan, a dual-voltage travel dryer avoids the converter problem. Many hotels also provide dryers, which may be enough for a short stay.

Our guide to the best lightweight hair dryers ranks dryers by weight, which matters for packing. For flight rules, see taking a hair dryer on a plane.

See lightweight hair dryers →

Multi-stylers and straighteners abroad

The same rules apply to Airwrap-style multi-stylers, straighteners and hot brushes. Check the rating label. Some straighteners have automatic worldwide voltage; many multi-stylers sold in the UK are UK-voltage only. If your styler is single voltage, it will work with an adapter in 230 V countries only.

If you are taking a multi-styler abroad, our best Airwrap-style multi-stylers guide covers the main models, and hair dryer wattage explained explains the power numbers on the label.

Frequently asked questions

Will my UK hair dryer work in Europe? In most of Europe, yes, with a plug adapter, because the supply is 230 V like the UK. Check the rating label to be sure.

Can I use a UK hair dryer in the USA? Not unless it is dual voltage. The US supply is around 120 V, and a 230 V-only dryer will not work properly there.

Do I need a converter or an adapter? An adapter only changes the plug shape. A converter changes the voltage. For 230 V countries an adapter is enough; for 120 V countries a dual-voltage dryer is usually more practical than a converter.

How do I know if my hair dryer is dual voltage? Look at the rating label. A range such as 100 to 240 V, or a voltage switch, means dual voltage. A single range around 220 to 240 V means UK and Europe only.