Using a hair dryer in Cuba

Cuban power outlet

Will my blowdryer work in Cuba?

Check your hair dryer can work in Cuba:

  • If your hair dryer can run on 110 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can check) then you'll only need to use the correct power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit in the outlet.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 110 volt Cuban power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter will change the voltage but won't change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Cuba, so please check that the voltage transformer includes an appropriate power adapter for Cuba otherwise you will also need to purchase another power adapter. Please be aware your own domestic hair dryer might not be suited for travel and you risk potential damage in transit. [9] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 110 volts you run a risk of an electrical fire hazard, blowing a fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Prior to using your hair dryer in Cuba check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Cuba

Will my hair dryer work in Cuba?

That will depend on if your hair dryer can operate using the 110 volts which are used in Cuba. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to operate using 110 volts and you have the correct plug adapter then you should be able to use it in Cuba. If not then you will need to consider bringing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2], read the guide on can you use a power converter to use your domestic hair dryer in Cuba for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [9] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Cuba

What to look for when choosing a travel blow dryer for Cuba

A dual voltage switch on a travel hair dryer

What to look for when choosing a travel blow dryer for Cuba

When choosing the best hair dryer look for a robust but light dual-voltage model which will work with a 110 volt Cuban power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, long cord and ALCI safety plug. For drying thicker hair buy a faster 1600+ watt dryer and included diffuser.

Nine tips for buying a travel hair dryer

  1. The most suitable hair dryers should allow you to change both temperature and speed with different options - a hotter faster speed will quickly dry thicker wet hair whereas a slower speed with a lower temperature should prevent damage to your hair.
  2. Instead of scouring stores to look for more expensive 3rd party attachments it might be more convenient and cheaper to purchase a new hair dryer which includes a diffuser and concentrator from the manufacturer.
  3. Try to look for lightweight travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models with a handle which folds mean more room to pack other items.
  4. Hotel rooms could have a fixed mirror installed too far away from a convenient outlet which could make it hard to operate the blow dryer, so when buying a travel hair dryer find the longest power cord available.
  5. Thicker hair might need a blow dryer with a more powerful motor; a high wattage ceramic dryer that includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster to avoid damage.
  6. The cool shot feature on modern travel dryers will rapidly cool down hair after drying to hold the style but this feature could be missing in smaller or cheaper dryers.
  7. Safe travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will reduce the risk of overloading that could lead to fires - models can be recognised by the 2 reset and test buttons on the plug.
  8. In order to function with a 110 volt Cuban power outlet a hair dryer needs to support dual voltage.
  9. Don't risk buying the cheapest travel dryer; as well as concerns with safety there is a greater risk that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to cheaper parts.

What is the best hair dryer for thick and curly hair?

Thicker hair can take much longer to dry and could be hard to dry without the hair turning frizzy. The best option is an ionic blow dryer, if the hair is curly use a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are recommended because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best travel hair dryer with cool shot?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

What is the best travel hair dryer with cool shot?

  • The Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and features cool shot which can be used to rapidly cool hair down which gives it a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot button, a tourmaline ceramic outlet for negative ions resulting in safer drying, 2 heat options, a longer 1.8m electric power cord and includes a concentrator attachment.

Both models fold, have an ALCI power plug which prevents power overloads and support dual voltage making them ideal for travel to Cuba in carry on luggage when used along with a power adapter for a Cuban power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Which is the smallest dual voltage hair dryer for Cuba?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium

Which is the smallest dual voltage hair dryer for Cuba?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the best value small ionic blowdryer available on the market, this 1200 watt ceramic dryer will be suitable for quickly drying thin and fine hair whilst on the go.
  • For a hairdryer which is small enough to transport in a handbag then a 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat for a shinier finish this dryer manages to include features which are typically reserved for larger blow dryers.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used in combination with the right power adapter for a Cuban power outlet they will work in Cuba folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried around all day for styling on the go. Both have a 1.5m electric power cable, have a twin speed motor and include a concentrator.  [14] [14] [15] [AD]

Which is the best dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser attachment?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

Which is the best dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser attachment?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65 metre electric power cable, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser but it lacks a cool shot option.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a lengthy 1.82 metre power cable for more freedom when drying with an ALCI power plug and removable filter for cleaning. With a strong 1875 watt motor it also has a cool shot button making it more suited for styling thick hair.

Each ionic travel hair dryer features a concentrator and diffuser with strong motors to make them the best travel blow dryers suitable for thick hair. They will require a plug adapter for Cuba to fit into a Cuban power outlet, each dryer is light and folds up to fit into a carry-on bag.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best blow dryer to buy for Cuba?

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 Cuba 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.

Cuba power outlets and plug sockets

What is the frequency used with a Cuban power outlet?

The frequency from a Cuban power outlet is 60Hz. [16]

What voltage is used in Cuba?

Power outlets in Cuba are 110 volts.

Which plug adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Cuba?

Type A, B and C power outlets

Which plug adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Cuba?

There are three types of power outlets used in Cuba, types C, A and B with the primary power outlets being type C:

  • Plug Type A - You can identify this plug socket by the 2 slots adjacent to each other where the live and neutral plug socket blades sit.
  • Plug Type B - You can identify the plug socket by 2 thin slots adjacent to each other where the short twin blades sit with a single hole below for the long earthed pin.
  • Plug Type C - This unearthed wall socket (called a Europlug) is recognised by 2 adjacent holes where the live and neutral plug socket pins slide into.

A recommended travel adapter to bring for using a 110 volt hair dryer in Cuba is a Type C power adapter; read the step-by-step instructions below for full details of using a hair dryer in Cuba using a plug adapter. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to see if you also have to bring a voltage converter.  [6] [17] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can you switch a dual voltage hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which changes between two sets of voltages however some hair dryers can automatically detect the voltage from a Cuban power outlet.
  2. The switch or dial needs a small coin or screwdriver to set the dryer to the right voltage between a 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
  3. Also it is worth noting down the two switch positions as the painted numbers can sometimes fade on certain models.

How can I use my dual voltage hair dryer in Cuba?

  1. Check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or it will work with a 110 volt power socket.
  2. If the hair dryer supports dual voltage please make sure it is set to work in the 100-127v range. The switch is usually found on the base or handle of the blow dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to switch.
  3. Plug your dryer into the power adapter for Cuba and then plug in the power adapter into the Cuban power outlet.
  4. The hair dryer is now ready to operate in Cuba.
  5. It's common on dual voltage hair dryer models that originated from a country that operates with 220-240V to work slower in a power outlet that supplies 100-127V.
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 supports dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or plug. This location might depend on the make and model of your hair dryer and could also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models might change automatically, however other hair dryer models will feature a button which allows you to operate 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 110 volts used in Cuba then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Cuban 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 110 volts used in a Cuban power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Cuba.
  • A large range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Cuba or any other country.

Travelling to Cuba with a hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Cuba have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Cuba have hair dryers?

This depends on the hotel or bed and breakfast and the class of the accommodation. Hair dryers in hotels are typically found in the bathroom, these could be a slower air hose variety, or might be located in the bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard. If staying in budget hostels, hotels and motels a shared hair dryer could be available at reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer availability you should either look on the hotel web site or call ahead to your hotel in Cuba to find out what is available to guests. Hair dryers in hotels are adequate but are typically basic models lacking a diffuser and notorious for slower air speeds and low heat. Those worried about hygiene should check for any grime from other guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

For travellers who aren't sure that a suitable or germ-free hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer.  [2] [AD]

Is it safe to bring a domestic hair dryer to Cuba?

Bringing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to bringing your existing hair dryer to Cuba (typically marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 110 volt power outlets used with a Cuban power outlet (as long as you use the correct plug adapter for Cuba). Travel hair dryers normally feature a folding handle and will be much lighter which will help in reducing the size and weight when packed in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer. Be aware that packing your expensive domestic hair dryer could place it at risk because of potential loss or damage in transit by an airport baggage handler. The costs involved in repairing an expensive specialised blow dryer in Cuba could be higher than purchasing a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [18] [AD]

Can blow dryers go in your carry on luggage?

Folding travel hair dryer

Can blow dryers go in your carry on luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA also suggests that you should check that your airline that is flying you to Cuba will allow blow dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing your blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible when going through airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of power wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cords tightly around hair dryers). If you do intend to bring fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against drops and knocks during your journey.   [18] [19] [20] [AD]

Power converters for Cuba

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

Voltage converter

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

A cheap, small and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in Cuba, however a more expensive and heavier power converter converts a 110 volt Cuban power outlet to work with a non-110 volt hair dryer. [9] [AD]

Do I need a voltage converter to use my hair dryer in Cuba?

The correct voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 110 volt power outlet used in Cuba. A power converter is suitable for travellers who want to bring their existing hair dryer, however it could be more costly to buy a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be substantially smaller than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suitable when packing. [9] [AD]

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

A page on how to power a hair dryer in Cuba with a three pin Type B power charger.

  1. Ensure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 110 volt power supply but if not then don't attempt these instructions as you could create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure you have set it to accept 110 volts to use in Cuba; consult the owners manual for more information on how to do this.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Cuba you will need to bring a Type B plug adapter [4]. The power adapter will fit different plugs from other countries for use in an electrical outlet found in Cuba simply 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 110 volt supply.
  3. Insert the Type B plug adapter in the Cuban power outlet. You can recognise the power supply by two thin slots adjacent to each other for live and neutral blades with a single hole below for the longer earth pin.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Cuban power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be used in Cuba. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Cuba using a type B power adapter

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

A step-by-step guide showing how to use your hair dryer in Cuba with a Type C power adapter.

  1. Check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 110 volt power supply but if it doesn't then do not continue as you may damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Some dual voltage blow dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure you have set it to the 110 volt setting for use in Cuba, please consult the manufacturers instructions for more details on how to do this.
  2. You will need to buy a Type C plug adapter [6] if the type of power outlet which is used in Cuba won't take the plug shape on your hair dryer. This Type C plug adapter is designed to adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet used in Cuba simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 110 volt outlet.
  3. Start the process by inserting the Type C plug adapter into the Cuban power outlet. You can identify the plug outlet by 2 round adjacent holes next to each other.
  4. Next plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Cuban power outlet. Your hair dryer is ready to use. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Cuba using a type C power adapter

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

How to use your hair dryer in Cuba by using a Type A travel adapter.

  1. Ensure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 110 volt power supply but if not then don't continue as you could blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages make sure you have set it to accept 110 volts to use in Cuba; consult the owners manual for more details on how to do this.
  2. This guide assumes 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 you will still need to check that your hair dryer will work with a 110 volt power outlet). So, if the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Cuba you will need to bring a Type A plug adapter [8]. The power adapter will fit different plugs from other countries for use in an electrical outlet in Cuba simply 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 110 volt supply.
  3. First you'll need to plug in the Type A plug adapter in the Cuban power outlet. You can recognise the power supply by two thin slots adjacent to each other for live and neutral blades.
  4. Next plug in your hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Cuban power outlet.
  6. You can now turn on the blow dryer to use in Cuba. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Cuba using a type A power adapter

See also

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