Which power adapter will I need when using a hair dryer in Norway?

Norwegian power outlet

Will my blow dryer work in Norway?

Check that your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Norway:

  • If your hair dryer can run on 240 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can check) then you will only need to bring the right power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 240 volt Norwegian power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but won't change the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Norway, so check that your power converter includes a suitable power adapter for Norway otherwise you will still need to bring a seperate power adapter. Also worth noting that your own domestic hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you could risk damage in your suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 240 volts used in Norway you run the risk of a blown fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Prior to using your hair dryer in Norway please check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Norway

Will my hair dryer work in Norway?

This depends on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 240 volt power outlets in Norway:

Best travel hair dryers for Norway

Choosing the best hair dryer for Norway

Travel hair dryer with a folding handle

Choosing the best hair dryer for Norway

When choosing the best travel hair dryer for Norway look for a sturdy but lightweight dual voltage dryer which will operate with a 240 volt Norwegian power outlet power outlet, includes ALCI safety plug, a folding handle and long power cable. When drying thick hair buy one with a diffuser that uses a higher 1600+ watt dryer.

9 tips for purchasing a hair dryer

  1. Buying the cheapest travel dryer might be risky - as well as safety concerns there is also a greater risk that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to cheaper components.
  2. In order to operate with a 240 volt Norwegian power outlet your hair dryer has to support dual voltage.
  3. A modern hair dryer could feature a cool shot option for quickly cooling hair down after drying to hold a style but this feature lacks in smaller or cheaper models.
  4. The safest travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will reduce the danger of overloading leading to fires, models are identified with the 2 reset and test switches.
  5. Curlier or thicker hair may require a travel hair dryer with a stronger motor. A higher wattage ceramic dryer that includes a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby avoiding damage.
  6. Look for a lighter travel dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, dryers with a folding handle will mean more space to pack other items.
  7. Hotel rooms in Norway could have a mirror positioned away from a convenient power outlet which makes it cumbersome to dry hair, therefore when buying a hair dryer search for the longest power cord available or bring either a power extension cord or portable mirror.
  8. It might be cheaper and more convenient to purchase a hair dryer that includes both a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer rather than scouring stores to look for more expensive 3rd party attachments.
  9. Ideal travel hair dryers for styling give control of the temperature and speed with low and high options, a faster hotter speed can dry thicker hair faster whereas lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to your hair.
Which is a good folding travel hair dryer with a diffuser for Norway?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

Which is a good folding travel hair dryer with a diffuser for Norway?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m power cable, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser however doesn't have a cool shot feature.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a long 1.82 metre power cable for greater flexibility when drying with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter for easy cleaning. With a strong 1875 watt motor it also has cool shot making it perfect for styling thick hair.

Each ionic travel hair dryer includes both concentrator and diffuser attachments with strong enough motors to make them the most suitable hair dryers for thick hair. They are lightweight and will fold up to fit in a carry-on bag, only requiring a cheap power adapter for Norway to work with a Norwegian power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer for Norway?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium travel hair dryer

What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer for Norway?

  • If you want to dry fine or thin hair whilst on the go the ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the best value small ionic blow dryer available on the market.
  • For a folding dryer which is compact enough to carry in a purse then a 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that emits infrared heat for a shinier finish this dryer has features which are typically found with bulkier blow dryers.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used with a suitable plug adapter for a Norwegian power outlet they will work in Norway and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried around during the day for drying on the go. Both have a 1.5 metre electric power cord, have a two speed motor and include a concentrator.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is a good blow dryer for thick curly hair?

Thicker hair will take longer to dry and will be hard to dry without your hair going frizzy, the best option will be an ionic hair dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. 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 bundled diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor that is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [8] [9] [AD]

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

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

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

  • With a strong 2 speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features a cool shot button that can be used to rapidly cool hair down.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, uses a tourmaline ceramic outlet for negative ions meaning safer styling, 2 heat settings, a longer 1.8m power cord and also includes a concentrator.

Both models fold, include an ALCI power plug which prevents overloading and support dual voltage making both ideal for visiting Norway in carry on luggage if used with a power adapter for a Norwegian power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel hair dryer for Norway?

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.ca/BaBylissPRO-Tourmaline-Titanium-Hairdryer-folding/dp/B085J6ZSMQ?dchild=1&keywords=BaBylissPRO+Tourmaline+Titanium+Travel+Dryer&qid=1623245596&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=faef8b868c67fbce2f88ad461e3009b9&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Conair
Compact
https://www.amazon.ca/Conair-Travel-Smart-Voltage-Silver/dp/B002B8VE4U?crid=9HWAYUNS9B55&keywords=Conair+1875+Watt+Compact+Folding+Handle+Hair+Dryer+with+Dual+Voltage&qid=1695416197&s=beauty&sprefix=conair+1875+watt+compact+folding+handle+hair+dryer+with+dual+voltage%2Cbeauty%2C153&sr=1-11&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.b06bdbbe-20fd-4ebc-88cf-fa04f1ca0da8&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=39c8d488fb25e9e724fe535436892bd0&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Berta
Folding
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01LWIYQSS?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=3744f6d1ac5af63e085818f40332a34b&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
X5
Superlite
https://www.amazon.ca/Revlon-Ceramic-Folding-Handle-Travel/dp/B01ITPVH8G?crid=2DDJ5B92DFABR&keywords=1600W+Dual+Voltage+Ceramic-Ionic+Travel+Dryer&qid=1657296342&sprefix=1600w+dual+voltage+ceramic-ionic+travel+dryer%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-5&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=e17e207600762e53ec89a32b36628172&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Hot Tools
1044
https://www.amazon.ca/Hot-Tools-Professional-Ht1044-Folding/dp/B003A1DWRO?keywords=Hot+Tools+Professional+Ht1044+Ionic+1875+Watt+Travel+Dryer&qid=1695069527&s=beauty&sr=1-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=cbfcfd8ce5309dac7c34a8ed0f4ebc87&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Class Mini Compact Compact with diffuser
Works in Norway 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.

Norway power outlets and plug sockets

What mains voltage is used in Norway?

Power outlets in Norway are 240 volts.

What frequency is used in a Norwegian power outlet?

The frequency from a Norwegian power outlet is 50Hz. [14]

Which travel adapter do you need when using a hair dryer in Norway?

Type C and F power outlets

Which travel adapter do you need when using a hair dryer in Norway?

There are two types of power outlets used in Norway, these are type F and C with the primary power outlets being type F:

  • Plug Type C - This unearthed plug outlet (known as a Europlug) is identified by the 2 holes adjacent to each other where the twin plug socket pins sit.
  • Plug Type F - This recessed round wall socket (also known as a Schuko plug) can be identified by the two round adjacent holes for live and neutral along with a pair of thin metal grounding clips above and below.

A recommended power adapter to bring for using a 240 volt hair dryer in Norway is a Type F plug adapter; read the step-by-step guide below for full details of using a hair dryer in Norway with a plug adapter. Please note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to see if you also need to bring a power converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer will handle dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or the handle. This location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer, it could also be written on the box. Some dual voltage models can change automatically but other hair dryer models will have a button or switch which allows you to toggle between different regions depending on which country you are visiting.

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

How do I switch the voltage on a dual voltage hair dryer?

  1. Most brands of dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which toggles between 2 types of voltages however some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from a Norwegian power outlet.
  2. The dial or switch needs a small screwdriver or coin to set the hair dryer to the right voltage between the 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
  3. Also, it is worth jotting down the two switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to rubbing off on certain models of travel dryer.

How do I use my dual voltage blow dryer in Norway?

  1. Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or it works with a 240 volt power socket.
  2. If the hair dryer is dual voltage then ensure it is set to operate within the 220-240 volt range. The switch is usually found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug the dryer into the correct power adapter for Norway and also plug in the power adapter into the Norwegian power outlet.
  4. It's normal for most travel hair dryer models operating within the 220-240v range to only work safely on a low speed setting, but the speed should be sufficient for drying hair. Check the hair dryer guidelines to see if this rule is appropriate for your model of dual voltage hair dryer to stop the risk of overheating.
  5. The dryer is now ready to operate with a Norwegian power outlet.

Travelling to Norway with a hair dryer

Is a hairdryer allowed onboard a plane to Norway?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Is a hairdryer allowed onboard a plane to Norway?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when carrying a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA recommends that you should check that your airline who is taking you to Norway will allow blow dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft.

Packing the blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible by airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping wires tightly around electronic items). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against bumps and knocks during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Is it safer to bring a domestic blow dryer or a travel hair dryer to Norway?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer instead of bringing your existing domestic blow dryer to Norway as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 240 volt power outlets used with a Norwegian power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Norway). Some types of travel hair dryer will typically feature a collapsible handle and are much lighter which will help reduce the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer.

Note that packing your expensive domestic blow dryer might place it at risk because of potential damage or loss in your suitcase by airline baggage handlers in Norway. The inconvenience and costs involved in replacing an expensive specialised domestic blow dryer in Norway could outweigh the cost of purchasing a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [17] [AD]

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Norway?

Hotel hair dryer

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Norway?

It will all depend on the hotel or bed and breakfast and the quality of the room. Hair dryers in hotels are typically found on a bathroom wall, these could be a slower air hose variety, or could be found in a bedroom drawer, cupboard or wardrobe.

If staying in cheaper hostels, hotels and motels a communal hair dryer could be offered at reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer policy you can either call ahead to the hotel in Norway or check on the booking web site to find out what is available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but are typically rudimentary models with no diffuser, notorious for slower air speeds and low heat. Those worried about hygiene might want to remove the grime from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

Travellers who don't want to take a chance that a suitable and sanitary hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer or call ahead to the hotel in Norway to check before travelling.  [2] [AD]

Power converters for Norway

Do you need a converter for Norway to use your hair dryer?

The correct type power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 240 volt power outlet used in Norway. Travellers who want to use their own hair dryer can use a power converter, however it might be cheaper to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to purchase a power converter. Also worth noting, a travel hair dryer can be substantially lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for travelling. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

An expensive and heavy power converter will transform a 240 volt Norwegian power outlet to work with a non-240 volt hair dryer, but a cheaper and smaller power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Norway. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Norway using a type C power adapter

How to power a hair dryer in Norway using a Type C travel charger.

  1. Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 240 volt power supply - if not then don't continue because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Travel blow dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer make sure the switch is set to accept 240 volts to use in Norway - refer to the user guide to find out how to do this.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet which is used in Norway you will need to use a Type C plug adapter [4]. This Type C plug adapter will adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet used in Norway 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 240 volt outlet.
  3. Begin the process by taking the Type C plug adapter and plugging it into the power outlet. You can identify the power supply by the 2 circular adjacent holes where the twin pins go.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Norwegian power outlet. You can now turn on your hair dryer in Norway. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Norway using a type C power adapter

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

A guide on how to use your hair dryer in Norway with a 2 pinned Type F power adapter.

  1. Ensure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 240 volt power outlet - if it doesn't then don't continue as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages make sure the switch is set to the 240 volt setting to use in Norway, please refer to the user guide to find out how to do this.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Norway you will need to buy a Type F plug adapter [6]. This Type F plug adapter will fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet used in Norway 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 240 volt outlet.
  3. First you'll need to insert the Type F plug adapter in the power outlet. You can identify the power supply by the two 4.8mm circular adjacent holes where the twin pins go, plus thin grounding clips above and below.
  4. After that plug in the hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Norwegian power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer is ready for use. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Norway using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - wikipedia entry about Norway
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  4. Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
  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. 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. 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..
  9. 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..
  10. 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..
  11. 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..
  12. 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..
  13. 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..
  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.