Which power adapter will I need to bring to use a hair dryer in El Salvador?

Salvadoranf power outlet

Can I use my blow dryer in El Salvador?

First check that your hair dryer can work in El Salvador:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 115 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you'll only need to use a suitable power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 115 volt Salvadoranf power outlet, however this is significantly heavier, bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but won't change the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in El Salvador, therefore please check that the voltage transformer has a power adapter for El Salvador otherwise you will also need to bring another power adapter. Please note - your domestic hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you risk damage in your luggage. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 115 volts you run the risk of blowing a fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Before using your hair dryer in El Salvador check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in El Salvador

Will my hair dryer work in El Salvador?

This depends on if your hair dryer can handle the 115 volts which are used in El Salvador. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can handle 115 volts and you have the appropriate plug adapter then you'll be able to use your hair dryer in El Salvador. 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 our guide on do you need a power converter to use a hair dryer for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for El Salvador

Choosing the best travel blow dryer for El Salvador

An ALCI safety plug

Choosing the best travel blow dryer for El Salvador

When looking for the best travel hair dryer choose a strong but light dual voltage dryer that will work with a 115 volt Salvadoranf power outlet power outlet, includes a safety plug, a folding handle and long cable. When drying thicker hair buy one with a bundled diffuser that has a higher 1600+ watt motor.

What should I look for when buying a hair dryer?

  1. Your hair dryer needs to support dual voltage to function in El Salvador.
  2. The cool shot feature on modern travel dryers will quickly cool down the hair after drying which will hold in a style but this feature is missing in cheaper models.
  3. Buying the cheapest travel dryer available could be risky; as well as safety issues there is also a greater chance that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to cheaper components.
  4. Look for a lighter travel hair dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models which have a handle which folds mean more room for packing other items.
  5. The safest travel hair dryers will include an ALCI safety plug which minimises the risk of the motor overloading that could lead to electrical fires; these are identified with 'test' and 'reset' buttons on the plug.
  6. If you have thicker hair then you might require a blow dryer which has a more powerful motor; a high wattage ceramic model that includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby preventing damage.
  7. Ideal travel hair dryers should allow you to alter both temperature and speed settings with two options - hotter faster speeds will quickly dry thicker hair whilst lower temperatures with slower speeds reduce damage to your hair.
  8. Depending on your hotel room you could find a fixed mirror installed some distance away from a outlet which could make it cumbersome to dry hair, therefore shop for the unit with the lengthiest power cord possible.
  9. Rather than looking for expensive third party attachments it could be more convenient to purchase a new dryer which includes a diffuser and a concentrator as these will fit perfectly.
Which is a good dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

Which is a good dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65 metre electric power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but it is missing a cool shot feature.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a long 1.82 metre electric power cable for greater freedom when styling with an ALCI safety plug and removable filter to clean easily. With a strong 1875 watt motor it also has cool shot making it perfect for styling thicker hair.

Both ionic hair dryers feature a concentrator and diffuser with strong motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. They require a suitable cheap power adapter for El Salvador to work with a Salvadoranf power outlet, each dryer is lightweight and folds up to pack into a carry-on travel bag.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is the best small ionic dual voltage hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator attachment

What is the best small ionic dual voltage hair dryer?

  • A Conair MiniPRO is the most cost effective small ionic blow dryer available on the market, this 1200 watt ceramic dryer is suitable for quickly drying fine or thin hair whilst on the go.
  • For a folding hairdryer which is compact enough to carry in a handbag then a 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat to protect from heat damage this dryer manages to incorporate options normally found on bulkier hairdryers.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used with the right power adapter for a Salvadoranf power outlet they will work in El Salvador and fold conveniently enough to be carried for styling on the go. They have a two speed motor, have a 1.5 metre electric power cord and include a concentrator attachment.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is a good hair dryer for thick and curly hair?

Thicker hair takes much longer to dry and could be hard to do so without hair turning frizzy, the best option for thick hair is an ionic hair dryer and for curly thick hair we suggest a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Either an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic are recommended because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [8] [9] [AD]

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with cool shot for El Salvador?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with cool shot for El Salvador?

  • A Conair Compact Styler has a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and includes a cool shot setting that can be used to rapidly cool hair down to give a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot setting, a ceramic tourmaline air outlet resulting in safer and quicker drying, two heat settings, a longer 1.8m electric power cord and also includes a concentrator attachment.

Each model is folding, has an ALCI power plug to prevent power overloads and has dual voltage making both perfect for travel to El Salvador in carry on luggage when used with a power adapter for a Salvadoranf power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel blow dryer to buy for El Salvador?

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 El Salvador 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.

El Salvador power outlets and plug sockets

What mains voltage is used in El Salvador?

The normal voltage in El Salvador is 115 volts.

What is the electrical frequency used with a Salvadoranf power outlet?

The frequency found in a Salvadoranf power outlet is 60Hz. [14]

Which travel adapter do you need to bring for using a hair dryer in El Salvador?

Type A and B power outlets

Which travel adapter do you need to bring for using a hair dryer in El Salvador?

There are two different types of power outlets used in El Salvador, these are type B and A with the primary power outlets being type B:

  • Plug Type A - You can identify the power outlet by the two adjacent slots for live and neutral pins.
  • Plug Type B - This plug outlet (also known as a type B power outlet) is identified by 2 thin slots next to each other where the live and neutral blades go with a hole below for the slightly long ground pin.

A recommended plug adapter to bring for using a 115 volt hair dryer in El Salvador is a Type B plug adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of using a power adapter for El Salvador. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to confirm if you also need to use a power converter.  [4] [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 supports a dual voltage outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or plug. The location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer and could also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage hair dryers will change automatically, however other hair dryers will have a button which allows you to operate 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 115 volts used in El Salvador then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Salvadoranf power outlet.
  • Single voltage might also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 115 volts used in a Salvadoranf power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in El Salvador.
  • 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 El Salvador or any other country if these numbers are shown.

How can I use my dual voltage hair dryer in El Salvador?

  1. Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it works with a 115 volt power socket.
  2. If your dryer supports dual voltage please make sure that it is set to work in the 100-127V range. This is usually found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the correct power adapter for El Salvador and then plug in the power adapter into the Salvadoranf power outlet.
  4. Your hair dryer can now be used in El Salvador.
  5. You can expect travel hair dryer models which originated from a country that uses 220-240V to blow slower than usual when used in a country which uses 100-127V electricity.

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

  1. Most models of dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which changes between two ranges of voltages however some dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from a Salvadoranf power outlet.
  2. The dial or switch needs either a screwdriver or coin to set the dryer to the correct voltage between a 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
  3. Also, it is worth making a note of the two switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to fading on certain models.

Travelling to El Salvador with a hair dryer

Can I pack a blow dryer in my carry on?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I pack a blow dryer in my carry on?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA recommends that you should verify that your airline who is taking you to El Salvador will allow blow dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft. Packing your blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible for airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly and will avoid a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cables 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 offers the greatest protection against knocks and drops during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Is it safe to bring a domestic hair dryer to El Salvador?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to bringing your existing domestic hair dryer to El Salvador as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 115 volt power outlets used with a Salvadoranf power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for El Salvador). Travel hair dryers typically feature a collapsible handle and will be lighter, this will help reduce the size and weight when packed in luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer.

Be aware that packing an expensive domestic hair dryer might place it at risk due to potential loss or damage in your luggage by an airline baggage handler in El Salvador. The cost of repairing an expensive specialised domestic blow dryer in El Salvador could be higher than purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before travelling to bring with you .  [17] [AD]

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in El Salvador?

Hotel hair dryer

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in El Salvador?

Depending on the individual hotel and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the room, either packed away in the bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer, found attached to a bathroom wall or could potentially be a slower air hose variety.

When staying in budget hotels, hostels and motels a communal hair dryer could be available at reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer policy then either call ahead to your hotel in El Salvador or look on the hotel web site to find out if a suitable hairdryer available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but are typically rudimentary models with no diffuser and notorious for low heat and slower air speeds. For those concerned with hygiene should check for grime from other guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

Remember, if you are in doubt either call ahead to your hotel in El Salvador or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Power converters for El Salvador

Do I need a power converter to use a hair dryer in El Salvador?

The correct model of power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 115 volt power outlet used in El Salvador. A power converter is suitable for travellers who want to use their existing domestic hair dryer, however it might be cheaper to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to purchase a power converter. Also, a travel hair dryer can be substantially lighter and smaller 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 for El Salvador?

Voltage converter

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

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in El Salvador, whereas a more expensive and heavier power converter will transform a 115 volt Salvadoranf power outlet to work with a non-115 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

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

A guide showing how to use a hair dryer in El Salvador with a Type B travel charger.

  1. Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 115 volt power supply; but if not then do not proceed as you might damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage hair dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure the switch is set to accept 115 volts, consult the owners manual for more details on how to do this.
  2. You will need to buy a Type B plug adapter [4] if the type of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the power outlet which is used in El Salvador. The Type B plug adapter is designed to convert different plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet used in El Salvador by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 115 volt supply.
  3. Start the process by plugging the Type B plug adapter into the Salvadoranf power outlet. You can identify the power supply by the two thin slots for live and neutral blades with a single semicircular hole below for the grounded pin.
  4. After that plug in your hair dryer into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Salvadoranf power outlet.
  6. You can now turn on the hair dryer in El Salvador. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in El Salvador using a type B power adapter

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

A page showing how to power your hair dryer in El Salvador with a Type A travel adapter.

  1. Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 115 volt power supply; but if not then do not proceed as you might damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage hair dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure you have set it to accept 115 volts; please consult the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. 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 you will still need to check that your hair dryer can work with a 115 volt power supply). So, if the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in El Salvador you'll need to bring a Type A plug adapter [6]. This Type A plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries for use in a power outlet in El Salvador simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 115 volt outlet.
  3. Insert the Type A plug adapter into the power outlet. This plug supply (technically called the Type A power outlet [5]) can be recognised by 2 slots adjacent to each other for live and neutral blades.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Salvadoranf power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on the hair dryer in El Salvador. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in El Salvador using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia.org entry about El Salvador
  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 A power outlet
  6. 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..
  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.