Which travel adapter will I need for using a hair dryer in Montserrat?
Can I use my blowdryer in Montserrat?
First check that your hair dryer can work in Montserrat:
- If your hair dryer can run on 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to 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.
If not then:
- Use a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] - you might still need a power adapter for Montserrat however these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for the rigors of travelling. Read nine tips for buying a travel hair dryer, the best blow dryers in 2023 compared and comprehensive recommendations for the best blow driers which will work in a Montserratian power outlet.
- Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Montserratian 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 not the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Montserrat, so please check that the voltage transformer comes with a suitable power adapter for Montserrat otherwise you will still need to bring another power adapter. Also worth noting that your existing hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you risk damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Using a hair dryer in Montserrat
Will my hair dryer work in Montserrat?
It depends on if your hair dryer is designed to handle the 230 volts used in Montserrat:
- 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 Montserrat.
- If not then 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 Montserrat
Multiple speed options on a travel hair dryer
How to choose the best travel hair dryer for Montserrat
When looking for the best travel hair dryer for Montserrat choose a sturdy but lightweight dual voltage model that operates with a 230 volt Montserratian power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, long power cable and a safety plug. When drying thicker hair buy a model which includes a bundled diffuser that has a faster 1600+ watt dryer.
What should you look for when purchasing a travel blow dryer?
- Rather than scouring stores looking for more expensive 3rd party attachments it might be cheaper and more convenient to buy a dryer that is supplied with both a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer.
- Some hotel rooms in Montserrat could have a fixed mirror installed too far away from a power outlet which makes it cumbersome to style hair, therefore when buying a blow dryer look for the longest power cord available or use either a pocket mirror or extension cable.
- If you have curlier or thicker hair then you might require a travel hair dryer which has a more powerful motor - a higher wattage ceramic dryer that includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster to prevent damage.
- The best hair dryers should give control of both speed and temperature settings with high and low options; a faster hotter speed will dry thicker wet hair quicker whilst lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to your hair.
- The safest travel hair dryers will include an ALCI safety plug which reduces the danger of the motor overloading and starting fires - you can recognise these models by the 'test' and 'reset' switches.
- Look for a lightweight travel hair dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, dryers which have a folding handle mean more space to pack other items.
- Buying the cheapest hair dryer on the market could be risky; as well as issues with safety there is also a greater risk that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to cheaper parts.
- Your travel hair dryer needs to be dual voltage to function with a 230 volt Montserratian power outlet.
- A modern travel dryer might feature a 'cool shot' button for rapidly cooling hair down after drying to hold a style but this option could be missing in smaller models.
Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle
Which is the best travel hair dryer with cool shot?
- A Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and includes cool shot that can will rapidly cool down hair which gives it a long lasting hold.
- The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, a ceramic tourmaline air outlet for negative ions meaning faster and safer styling, twin heat settings, a longer 1.8m electric power cable and includes a concentrator attachment.
Each model is folding, includes an ALCI safety plug to prevent overloading and has dual voltage making both perfect for travel to Montserrat in carry on luggage if used with a power adapter for a Montserratian power outlet. [8] [8] [9] [AD]
Which is the best hair dryer for thick and curly hair?
Thicker hair can take longer to dry and might be hard to do so without your hair going frizzy, so the best option for thick hair will be an ionic dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are suitable to dry and manage hair smoothly. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are recommended as they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers - avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough. [10] [11] [AD]
The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle
Which is a good mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage?
- 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 mini hair dryers support dual voltage when used with a suitable plug adapter for a Montserratian power outlet they should work in Montserrat folding conveniently enough to be carried around all day for drying on the go. Both are twin speed, have a 1.5m power cord and include a concentrator attachment. [12] [12] [13] [AD]
Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle
What is a good dual voltage travel ionic hair dryer with diffuser?
- A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65 metre electric power cable, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but is missing cool shot.
- The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a long 1.82m power cord for greater freedom when drying with an ALCI power plug and removable filter for cleaning. It uses a strong 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it perfect for drying thick hair.
Each ionic travel hair dryer includes both diffuser and concentrator attachments with strong enough motors to make them the most suitable travel blow dryers for thick hair. They are both lightweight and fold up to fit in carry-on luggage and will only require a cheap plug adapter for Montserrat to work with a Montserratian power outlet. [10] [11] [11] [AD]
Best hair dryers for travel
What is the best travel blow dryer for Montserrat?
| Conair MiniPRO  |
BaByliss PRO  |
Conair Compact  |
Berta Folding  |
X5 Superlite  |
Hot Tools 1044  |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class | Mini | Compact | Compact with diffuser | |||
| Works in Montserrat | 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.
Montserrat power outlets and plug sockets
What mains voltage is used in Montserrat?
The residential voltage used in Montserrat is 230 volts.
What is the electrical frequency used in a Montserratian power outlet?
The frequency of the alternating current from a Montserratian power outlet is 60Hz. [14]
Type A and B power outlets
Which travel adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Montserrat?
There are two types of power outlets used in Montserrat, these are type B and A with the primary power outlets being type B:
- Plug Type A - You can identify this power socket by the 2 thin slots adjacent to each other where the two pins go.
- Plug Type B - You can identify this power socket by the 2 thin slots where the plug socket blades go with a semicircle shaped hole below for the long earthed pin.
A recommended travel adapter to bring for using a 230 volt hair dryer in Montserrat is a Type B power adapter, read the step-by-step guide below for full details of using a hair dryer in Montserrat. 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. [4] [15] [AD]
Dual voltage hair dryers
How should I change the voltage on a dual voltage travel hair dryer?
- Most dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which selects between two sets of voltages however some hair dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Montserrat.
- The dial or switch will typically require either a screwdriver or coin to set the hair dryer to the right voltage between the 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
- In addition to changing this over it's worth jotting down the two switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to fading on certain models.
How can you use a dual voltage blow dryer in Montserrat?
- Ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or that it operates with a 230 volt power socket.
- If the hair dryer supports dual voltage please 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.
- Plug your hair dryer into the power adapter for Montserrat and also plug in the power adapter into the Montserratian power outlet.
- It's common on most dual voltage hair dryer models operating within the 220-240v range to only work safely on a low setting, however the temperature should be sufficient enough for drying hair. Always check the manufacturers guidelines to find out if this rule is relevant for your model of dryer to avoid the risk of overheating.
- The dryer can now be operated with a Montserratian power outlet.
Dual voltage hair dryer
How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?
An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer supports a dual voltage power outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or handle of your hair dryer. The location will depend on the make and model of your hair dryer, it could also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models might change automatically but other hair dryers will feature a switch which allows you to toggle between different voltages.
- A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Montserrat then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Montserratian 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 230 volts used in a Montserratian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Montserrat.
- A larger range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Montserrat or any other country.
Travelling to Montserrat with a hair dryer
Hair dryer attached to hotel desk
Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Montserrat?
Depending on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer might be available in the room, either packed in the bedroom drawer, cupboard or wardrobe, found on a bathroom wall or could potentially be of a slower air hose type.
In cheaper motels, hotels and hostels a communal hair dryer could be available at the reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer availability then either call ahead to your hotel in Montserrat or look on the booking web site to find out what is available for guests. Hair dryers in hotels are adequate but are typically rudimentary models lacking a diffuser and notorious for low heat and slow air speeds. For those concerned with hygiene should remove the burnt hair cuticles 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 don't want to take a chance that a suitable or clean hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer or telephone the hotel in Montserrat to check before travelling. [2] [AD]
Should I bring a domestic hair dryer or a travel hair dryer to Montserrat?
Packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to bringing an existing blow dryer to Montserrat as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Montserratian power outlet (as long as you bring the correct plug adapter for Montserrat). 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 airline baggage handler. The costs involved in replacing an expensive specialised hair dryer in Montserrat might outweigh the cost of buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case . [16] [AD]
Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on
Can blow dryers go in your carry on luggage to Montserrat?
According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when carrying a mains powered hair dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA also recommends that you should check that your airline that is flying you to Montserrat will allow hair dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft.
Packing your hair dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible when going through airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cables tightly around electronic items). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against knocks and bumps during transit. [16] [17] [18] [AD]
Power converters for Montserrat
Voltage converter
What is the difference between a power adapter and a voltage converter?
A heavy and bulky power converter will transform the voltage of 230 volts from a Montserratian power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, whereas a more lightweight and cheaper power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet found in Montserrat. [7] [AD]
Can you use a hair dryer with a voltage converter in Montserrat?
A suitable power converter (or voltage transformer) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 230 volt power outlet used in Montserrat. Travellers who want to bring along their own domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, but it might be more costly to buy a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also worth noting, a travel hair dryer can be substantially smaller and lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suitable when travelling. [7] [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Montserrat using a type B power adapter
How to use a hair dryer in Montserrat by using a three pin Type B power charger.
- Please check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet but if not then don't continue as you might damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer ensure you have set it to accept 230 volts for use in Montserrat, please consult the instructions to find out where the switch is found.
- You'll need to use a Type B plug adapter [4] if the type of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of power outlet which is used in Montserrat. This Type B plug adapter will help convert plugs from other countries into an electrical outlet in Montserrat simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
- Start by taking the Type B plug adapter and inserting it into the Montserratian power outlet. This wall outlet, technically known as a Type B power outlet [3], can be identified by the two slots parallel to each other with a semicircular hole below for the grounded pin. Please note power cables with type B plugs which are rated at only 125 volts shouldn't be used so please check first.
- Next plug in your hair dryer into the Type B plug adapter.
- Switch on the Montserratian power outlet.
- The hair dryer can now be used in Montserrat. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Montserrat using a type A power adapter
How to power a hair dryer in Montserrat with a Type A power adapter.
- Make sure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet - but if not then don't attempt these instructions as you might damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer ensure you have set it to accept 230 volts to use in Montserrat; please consult the manufacturers instructions to find out where the switch is found.
- Please check that you're not already using a hair dryer with a Type A plug - if it does then you won't need a power adapter (but please check that your hair dryer will work with a 230 volt power supply). You'll need to use a Type A plug adapter [6] if the type of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same type of power outlet used in Montserrat. The Type A plug adapter will convert different plugs from other countries for use in an electrical outlet found in Montserrat simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
- Start by taking the Type A plug adapter and inserting it in the power outlet. This power outlet (sometimes known as the Type A power outlet [5]) can be recognised by the 2 slots next to each other where the short twin blades sit. Please be aware power cords used with type A sockets which are rated at 125 V should not be used in Montserrat so please check first.
- Plug in your hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
- Turn on the Montserratian power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be used in Montserrat. [AD]
See also
External links
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- Wikipedia - Montserratian Wikipedia page
- Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
- iec.ch - Type B power outlet
- 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..
- iec.ch - Type A power outlet
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
- iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
- Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
- tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
- Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
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