How do I use a hair dryer in Slovakia?

Slovak power outlet

Can I use my hair dryer in Slovakia?

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

  • If your hair dryer can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you'll only need to bring an appropriate power adapter listed below if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit in the outlet.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Slovak power outlet, however this is significantly heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but not the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Slovakia, so please check that your voltage transformer includes an appropriate power adapter for Slovakia otherwise you will also need to purchase another power adapter. Please note that your personal hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you risk damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts you run a risk of a blown fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Prior to using your hair dryer in Slovakia please check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Slovakia

Will my hair dryer work in Slovakia?

That will depend on if your hair dryer can handle the 230 volt power outlets in Slovakia. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can handle 230 volts and you have the appropriate plug adapter then you can use the hair dryer in Slovakia. If not then you will need to consider bringing either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter, read the guide on do you need a power converter to use your hair dryer for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Slovakia

What to look for when buying a blow dryer for Slovakia

An ALCI safety plug

What to look for when buying a blow dryer for Slovakia

When looking for the best hair dryer choose a strong but lightweight dual-voltage dryer that will work with a 230 volt Slovak power outlet power outlet with a long cord, ALCI safety plug and a folding handle. If drying thicker hair look for a higher 1600+ watt dryer and included diffuser.

What should you look for when purchasing a travel blow dryer?

  1. Try to look for a lighter travel hair dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, dryers which have a folding handle mean more space to pack other items.
  2. The cool shot button on a modern travel dryer will quickly cool down hair after drying which will hold in a style but this option lacks in smaller models.
  3. In order to function in Slovakia the hair dryer has to support dual voltage.
  4. Suitable hair dryers will give control of both speed and temperature settings with 2 options; a faster hotter speed can dry thicker wet hair quickly and a slower speed with a lower temperature should prevent damage to hair.
  5. Don't be tempted to just buy the cheapest hair dryer on the market - as well as issues with safety there is a greater risk that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to cheaper parts.
  6. It might be more convenient and cheaper to buy a new dryer that includes both a diffuser and concentrator instead of scouring stores to look for more expensive 3rd party attachments.
  7. Depending on your hotel room you might find a wall mirror positioned some distance away from a convenient outlet which makes it hard to operate the travel dryer, therefore search for the model with the lengthiest power cord possible.
  8. Safe travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will minimise the danger of the motor overloading leading to an electrical fire - you can recognise these models by 'reset' and 'test' switches.
  9. If you have thicker or curlier hair then you may require a travel blow dryer which has a stronger motor - a higher wattage ceramic dryer that has a diffuser will dry hair much faster to avoid damage.
Which is a good mini dual voltage travel hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium travel hair dryer

Which is a good mini dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  • For drying thin and fine hair whilst on the go then a ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the cheapest small ionic hairdryer available on the market.
  • For a blow dryer which is compact enough to transport in a purse then the 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that emits infrared heat for a glossy finish this dryer has features which are typically reserved for larger models.

Both of these mini hair dryers support dual voltage when used with the right plug adapter for a Slovak power outlet they should work in Slovakia folding conveniently enough to be carried around all day for drying on the go. Both are twin speed, have a 1.5 metre power cord and include a concentrator attachment.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser attachment for Slovakia?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer

Which is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser attachment for Slovakia?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65 metre power cord, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser but it lacks a cool shot option.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a generous 1.82 metre electric power cable for greater flexibility when drying with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter for cleaning. With a strong 1875 watt motor it includes cool shot making it more suited for drying thicker hair.

Both ionic travel hair dryers feature a concentrator and diffuser with strong motors to make them the best travel hair dryers for thick hair. They require a suitable cheap power adapter for Slovakia to plug into a Slovak power outlet, each hair dryer is light and folds up to pack into a carry-on bag.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best hair dryer for thick hair?

Thicker hair will take longer to dry and could be difficult to do so without hair going frizzy, the best option for thicker hair is an ionic dryer, if the hair is curly use a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly. Both the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer will be suitable because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers, avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor that is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best folding dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot for Slovakia?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

What is the best folding dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot for Slovakia?

  • With a strong two speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler includes cool shot which can be used to rapidly cool hair down which gives it a longer lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, uses a ceramic tourmaline outlet meaning faster drying, 2 heat options, a longer 1.8m power cord and comes with a concentrator attachment.

Each model folds, has an ALCI plug to prevent power overloads and support dual voltage making both ideal for travel to Slovakia in carry on luggage when used along with a power adapter for a Slovak power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best hair dryer to buy for Slovakia?

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 Slovakia 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.

Slovakia power outlets and plug sockets

What is the frequency used with a Slovak power outlet?

The frequency found in a Slovak power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]

What is the voltage in Slovakia?

Power outlets in Slovakia are 230 volts.

Which plug adapter will you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Slovakia?

Type C and E power outlets

Which plug adapter will you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Slovakia?

There are two different types of power outlets used in Slovakia, types E and C with the primary power outlets being type E:

  • Plug Type C - You can identify this power socket by the 2 round adjacent holes next to each other where the plug socket pins go.
  • Plug Type E - This recessed circular power outlet can be identified by the two holes 19mm adjacent to each other where the twin pins sit and a single long metal earth pin protruding the top forming a triangle shape.

A Type E plug adapter allows you to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Slovakia - read the step by step instructions below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Slovakia. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also need to use a power converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can you use a dual voltage blow dryer in Slovakia?

  1. Ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or that it will operate with a 230 volt power socket.
  2. If the hair dryer supports dual voltage then make sure it is switched to operate within the 220-240V range. This is normally found on the handle or base of the hair dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to turn.
  3. Plug your hair dryer into the power adapter for Slovakia and then plug in the power adapter into the Slovak power outlet.
  4. It's common on most dual voltage hair dryers operating within the 220-240V range to only work safely on a low setting, however the temperature should be sufficient enough for drying hair. Check the manufacturers guidelines to find out if this rule is relevant for your model of dryer to prevent the risk of overheating.
  5. Your dryer can now be operated in Slovakia.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer will accept dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or the plug. This location might depend on the make or model of your hair dryer and should also be written in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair dryers will change automatically, however other hair dryer models will have a button which allows you to toggle between different regions depending on which country you are visiting.

  • Single voltage could say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Slovakia then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Slovak 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 a Slovak power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Slovakia.
  • Dual voltage will say a large range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Slovakia or any other country if these numbers are shown.

How can I switch a dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  1. Most brands of dual voltage hair dryers have a switch or dial which changes between 2 types of voltages although some hair dryers can automatically detect the voltage from a Slovak power outlet.
  2. The switch or dial typically requires either a small screwdriver or coin to change the hair dryer to the correct voltage between the 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
  3. As well as changing this it is worth making a note of both switch positions as the painted numbers are prone to fading on some models.

Travelling to Slovakia with a hair dryer

Should I bring a domestic hair dryer or a travel hair dryer to Slovakia?

Packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing an existing blow dryer to Slovakia as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Slovak power outlet (as long as you bring the correct plug adapter for Slovakia). Travel hair dryers typically feature a collapsing handle and are much lighter, this will help in reducing the size and weight when packed in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer. It is also worth concidering that packing an expensive domestic blow dryer might put it at risk due to potential loss or damage in transit by an airport baggage handler. The cost and inconvenience involved in repairing or replacing an expensive specialised hair dryer in Slovakia might overshadow the cost of buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [16] [AD]

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

Hotel hair dryer

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

This will all depend on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and the quality of the room. Hotel room hair dryers are normally found on a bathroom wall unit, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or might be located in the bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard.

When staying in budget hostels, motels and hotels a shared hair dryer could be offered at reception but could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt as to hotel hairdryer policy then either look on the booking web site or call ahead to your hotel in Slovakia to find out if a suitable hairdryer available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are usable but normally rudimentary models with no diffuser, notorious for slow air speeds and low heat. Those worried about hygiene should check for any grime from other guests on a shared hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

Guests who aren't sure that a suitable and clean hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer or phone their hotel in Slovakia to check beforehand.  [2] [AD]

Can I pack a blow dryer in my carry on luggage?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I pack a blow dryer in my carry on luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA also suggests that you should check that your airline who is flying you to Slovakia will allow a hair dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft.

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

Power converters for Slovakia

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter for Slovakia?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter for Slovakia?

A heavy and bulky power converter will convert a 230 volt Slovak power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, whereas a cheaper and smaller power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Slovakia. [7] [AD]

Do I need a power converter to use my hair dryer in Slovakia?

A suitable voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 230 volt power outlet used in Slovakia. A power converter is more suitable for travellers wishing to bring along their own domestic hair dryer, but it could be a lot less expensive to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it will be to purchase a power converter. Also, a power converter is significantly heavier and bulkier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suited for travelling. [7] [AD]

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

How to use your hair dryer in Slovakia by using a two pin Type C power charger.

  1. Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 230 volt power outlet; but if it doesn't then don't proceed as you could create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Some dual voltage travel blow dryers will sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure the switch is set to accept 230 volts; consult the user guide for more details on where the switch is.
  2. If the shape of the power outlet which is used in Slovakia doesn't take the plug on your hair dryer you'll need to use a Type C plug adapter [4]. This Type C plug adapter is designed to fit plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet in Slovakia by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Plug in the Type C plug adapter in the Slovak power outlet. You can identify this plug outlet by 2 circular adjacent holes.
  4. Then plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Slovak power outlet.
  6. You can now turn on the blow dryer to use in Slovakia. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Slovakia using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Slovakia using a type E power adapter

How to power a hair dryer in Slovakia with a Type E power adapter.

  1. Please make sure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 230 volt power supply but if it doesn't then do not attempt these instructions because you may create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Travel blow dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure you have set it to the 230 volt setting - please refer to the user guide to find out how to do this.
  2. If the shape of the power outlet used in Slovakia isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair dryer you will need to buy a Type E plug adapter [6]. The plug adapter will fit different plugs from other countries for use with a power outlet used in Slovakia by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Begin by plugging the Type E plug adapter in the wall outlet. You can identify this power outlet by the two round adjacent holes next to each other where the plug outlet pins go with a single long metal earth pin protruding from the top in a triangle pattern.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type E plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Slovak power outlet. The hair dryer should now be ready to be used in Slovakia. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Slovakia using a type E power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Slovak wikipedia page
  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 E power outlet
  6. Type E plug adapter - A CEE 7/5 socket and CEE 7/6 plug compliant Type E adapter designed with a focus on safety, featuring two round pins and an earthing hole. Ideal for use in the France, Belgium, Poland and several African nations..
  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. 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..
  9. 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..
  10. 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..
  11. 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..
  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. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  17. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.