Which power adapter will I need when using a hair dryer in The US Virgin Islands?

Virgin Islands power outlet

Will my blow dryer work in The US Virgin Islands?

Check that your hair dryer can handle the voltage in The US Virgin Islands:

  • If your hair dryer can run on 110 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can check) then you will only need to bring the right power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 110 volt Virgin Islands power outlet, however this is considerably heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of power outlet used in The US Virgin Islands, so check that the power converter comes with the correct power adapter for The US Virgin Islands otherwise you will also need to bring another power adapter. Please be aware that your existing hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you could risk potential damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 110 volts you run the potential risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or a blown fuse. Before using your hair dryer in The US Virgin Islands check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in The US Virgin Islands

Will my hair dryer work in The US Virgin Islands?

This depends on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 110 volt power outlets in The US Virgin Islands. 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 power adapter then you can use the hair dryer in The US Virgin Islands. If not then you will need to consider bringing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Read our guide on can you use a power converter with a domestic hair dryer in The US Virgin Islands for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for The US Virgin Islands

Choosing the best hair dryer for The US Virgin Islands

Dual voltage switch on a travel hair dryer

Choosing the best hair dryer for The US Virgin Islands

When choosing the best travel hair dryer for The US Virgin Islands look for a sturdy but lightweight dual voltage dryer which will operate with a 110 volt Virgin Islands power outlet power outlet, includes a safety plug, a folding handle and long cable. For drying thick hair buy one which includes a diffuser that uses a higher 1600+ watt dryer.

What to look for when buying a travel blow dryer?

  1. A modern hair dryer might feature a cool shot option for quickly cooling hair down after drying to hold a style but this feature lacks in smaller or cheaper models.
  2. Look for a lighter travel dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, dryers with a folding handle will mean more space to pack other items.
  3. In order to operate with a 110 volt Virgin Islands power outlet your hair dryer has to support dual voltage.
  4. Buying the cheapest travel dryer might be risky - as well as safety issues there is also a greater risk that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to cheaper components.
  5. Ideal travel hair dryers for styling give control of the speed and temperature with low and high options, a faster hotter speed can dry thicker hair faster whereas lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to your hair.
  6. The safest travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will reduce the danger of overloading the motor leading to fires, models are identified with the 2 reset and test switches.
  7. It might be cheaper and more convenient to purchase a hair dryer that includes both a concentrator and diffuser rather than scouring stores to look for more expensive 3rd party attachments.
  8. Curlier or thicker hair may require a travel hair dryer with a stronger motor. A higher wattage ceramic dryer that includes a diffuser will dry hair faster to prevent damage.
  9. Hotel rooms in The US Virgin Islands could have a mirror positioned away from a convenient power outlet which makes it cumbersome to operate the blow dryer, therefore when buying a blow dryer search for the longest power cord available.
Which is a good folding travel hair dryer with a diffuser for The US Virgin Islands?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

Which is a good folding travel hair dryer with a diffuser for The US Virgin Islands?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m power cord, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser however is missing a cool shot feature.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a long 1.82m power cable for greater flexibility when drying with an ALCI power plug and removable filter to clean. With a strong 1875 watt motor it also has cool shot making it perfect for drying thick hair.

Each ionic hair dryer includes a concentrator and diffuser attachment with strong enough motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. Each hair dryer is light and folds up to fit in carry-on luggage, only requiring a cheap plug adapter for The US Virgin Islands to work with a Virgin Islands power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer for The US Virgin Islands?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle

What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer for The US Virgin Islands?

  • For drying fine or thin hair on the go the ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the most cost effective small ionic blow dryer available to buy.
  • For a folding hairdryer which is compact enough to transport in a purse then a 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that emits infrared heat for a glossy finish this dryer manages to include options which are typically found on bulkier hairdryers.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used in combination with a suitable plug adapter for a Virgin Islands power outlet they should work in The US Virgin Islands folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried for drying on the go. Both have a two speed motor, have a 1.5 metre electric power cord and include a concentrator.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is a good blow dryer for thick curly hair?

Thicker hair will take longer to dry and will be hard to dry without your hair going frizzy, so the best option is an ionic hair dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Both an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic are recommended as they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [8] [9] [AD]

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

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with bundled concentrator

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

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

Both models fold, include an ALCI plug which prevents overloading and has dual voltage making both ideal for visiting The US Virgin Islands in carry on luggage when used with a power adapter for a Virgin Islands power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel hair dryer for The US Virgin Islands?

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 The US Virgin Islands 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.

The US Virgin Islands power outlets and plug sockets

What is the electrical frequency used in a Virgin Islands power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current in a Virgin Islands power outlet is 60Hz. [14]

What mains voltage is used in The US Virgin Islands?

Power outlets in The US Virgin Islands are 110 volts.

Which travel adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in The US Virgin Islands?

Type A and B power outlets

Which travel adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in The US Virgin Islands?

There are two types of power outlets used in The US Virgin Islands, types B and A with the primary power outlets being type B:

  • Plug Type A - This ungrounded power socket, also called a type A power outlet, is identified by the 2 slots adjacent to each other for live and neutral.
  • Plug Type B - This wall socket (technically called a type B power outlet) is identified by the two slots adjacent to each other where the two plug socket blades slide into with a hole below for the earth pin.

A suitable power adapter to bring when using a 110 volt hair dryer in The US Virgin Islands is a Type B power adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of using a hair dryer in The US Virgin Islands. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to bring a voltage converter.  [4] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can you use a dual voltage hair dryer in The US Virgin Islands?

  1. Check that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or that it will work with a 110 volt power outlet.
  2. If the dryer supports dual voltage then make sure that it is set to work in the 100-127v range. This is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and requires a coin or screwdriver to turn.
  3. Plug your dryer into the power adapter for The US Virgin Islands, also plug in the power adapter into the Virgin Islands power outlet.
  4. Your hair dryer can now be operated in The US Virgin Islands.
  5. You can expect travel hair dryers that were purchased in a country that operates with 220-240 volts to work slower than usual when used with a power outlet that supplies 100-127V.
How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

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

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

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

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

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

Travelling to The US Virgin Islands with a hair dryer

Is it safer to bring a domestic blow dryer or a travel hair dryer to The US Virgin Islands?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer instead of bringing your existing domestic blow dryer to The US Virgin Islands as it ensures that it will work with the 110 volt power outlets used with a Virgin Islands power outlet (provided that you use the correct power adapter for The US Virgin Islands). Some types of travel hair dryer will typically feature a collapsible handle and are much lighter which will help reduce the size and weight in luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer. Note that packing your expensive domestic blow dryer might put it at risk because of potential damage or loss in your luggage by an airport baggage handler in The US Virgin Islands. The cost of repairing an expensive specialised hair dryer in The US Virgin Islands could outweigh the costs of buying a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case .  [16] [AD]

Is a hairdryer allowed onboard a flight to The US Virgin Islands?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Is a hairdryer allowed onboard a flight to The US Virgin Islands?

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

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

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in The US Virgin Islands?

Hair dryer attached to hotel desk

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in The US Virgin Islands?

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

If staying in cheaper hotels, hostels and motels a communal hair dryer could be available at reception but that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer availability you can either call ahead to the hotel in The US Virgin Islands or check on the hotel web site to find out if a suitable hairdryer available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are usable but typically rudimentary models lacking a diffuser, notorious for low heat and providing slow air speeds. For those worried about hygiene might want to check for burnt hair cuticles from other guests on a shared hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

Remember, if you are in doubt either call ahead to the hotel in The US Virgin Islands or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Power converters for The US Virgin Islands

Do I need a converter for The US Virgin Islands to use my hair dryer?

The correct type power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 110 volt power outlet used in The US Virgin Islands. Travellers who wish to bring along their own hair dryer can use a power converter, however it might be more costly to buy a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also, a power converter is substantially heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suited for travelling compared to a travel hair dryer. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

An expensive and heavy power converter will transform a 110 volt Virgin Islands power outlet to work with a non-110 volt hair dryer, however a cheaper and smaller power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet found in The US Virgin Islands. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in The US Virgin Islands using a type B power adapter

A guide showing how to power your hair dryer in The US Virgin Islands by using a three prong Type B power charger.

  1. Make sure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 110 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions as you may create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Before using a travel hair dryer make sure you have set it to the 110 volt setting to use in The US Virgin Islands; please refer to 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 shape of the power outlet which is used in The US Virgin Islands isn't the same shape as the plug shape of your hair dryer. The power adapter is designed to convert different plugs from other countries for a power outlet in The US Virgin Islands simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 110 volt supply.
  3. Start by inserting the Type B plug adapter into the Virgin Islands power outlet. You can recognise this wall outlet by two slots next to each other with a hole below for the grounded pin.
  4. After that plug in the hair dryer into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Virgin Islands power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer is ready to use. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in The US Virgin Islands using a type B power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in The US Virgin Islands using a type A power adapter

A guide showing how to power your hair dryer in The US Virgin Islands with a three prong Type A power charger.

  1. Ensure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 110 volt power outlet - if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a travel hair dryer make sure the switch is set to the 110 volt setting to use in The US Virgin Islands, please refer to the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. These instructions assume that you are 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 110 volt power outlet). So, if the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in The US Virgin Islands you will need to buy a Type A plug adapter [6]. The Type A plug adapter helps convert different plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet found in The US Virgin Islands simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 110 volt outlet.
  3. Plug the Type A plug adapter into the Virgin Islands power outlet. This plug outlet (known as a Type A power outlet [5]) is identified by two slots adjacent to each other.
  4. After that plug in the hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Virgin Islands power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer is ready for use. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in The US Virgin Islands using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Virgin Islands Wikipedia page
  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. 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.