Which power adapter will I need to bring to use a hair dryer in Thailand?
Will my hairdryer work in Thailand?
First check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Thailand:
- If your hair dryer can run on 220 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can tell) then you'll only need to use the right power adapter for Thailand listed below if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit.
If not then:
- Use a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] - you may still need a suitable power adapter for Thailand however these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for travelling. See the guide to the best travel blow driers guaranteed to work with a Thai power outlet, along with nine tips for purchasing a travel hair dryer and a comparison of six of the best hair dryers in 2023.
- Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 220 volt Thai power outlet, however this is substantially heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but won't change the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Thailand, therefore please check that the power converter comes with the correct power adapter for Thailand otherwise you will also need to bring a seperate power adapter. Note - your own personal hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you could risk damage in transit. [9] [AD]
Using a hair dryer in Thailand
Will my hair dryer work in Thailand?
That will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 220 volt power outlets used in Thailand. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to operate using 220 volts and you have the appropriate plug adapter then you should be able to use the hair dryer in Thailand. If not then you will need to consider purchasing 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 your hair dryer for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [9] [AD]
Best travel hair dryers for Thailand
How to choose the best hair dryer for Thailand
When looking for the best travel hair dryer for Thailand choose a strong but light dual voltage dryer which will operate with a 220 volt Thai power outlet power outlet, has ALCI safety plug, a folding handle and a long cable. When drying thicker hair look for a dryer with a faster 1600+ watt motor and bundled diffuser.
Things to consider when buying a new hair dryer
- The safest travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which reduces the risk of overloading the motor and starting a fire - these are identified with 'reset' and 'test' switches on the plug.
- Thicker or curlier hair might need a travel hair dryer with a stronger motor; a higher wattage ceramic dryer which has a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby preventing damage.
- Depending on the accommodation there could be a fixed mirror installed away from a outlet which could make it cumbersome to dry hair, therefore look for a model with the lengthiest power cord available.
- Buying the cheapest travel dryer available might be risky - as well as safety concerns there is also a greater risk that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to a flimsy build.
- Instead of looking for more expensive 3rd party attachments which fit the barrel size securely it might be cheaper and more convenient to purchase a hair dryer that is supplied with a diffuser and a concentrator from the manufacturer as these should fit perfectly.
- To function in Thailand your hair dryer has to be dual voltage.
- Modern hair dryers might feature a cool shot button for quickly cooling hair down after drying to hold the style but this option could be missing in smaller or cheaper models.
- Ideal travel hair dryers for styling allow you to alter both speed and temperature settings with 2 options - a faster hotter speed can quickly dry thicker wet hair whilst a lower temperature with a slower speed will prevent damage to your hair.
- Try looking for lightweight travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, dryers with a folding handle mean more space.
What is the best folding dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot for Thailand?
- Using a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features a cool shot button that can be used to quickly cool down hair which gives it a longer lasting hold.
- The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, uses a tourmaline ceramic air outlet meaning quicker and safer drying, two heat settings, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cord and also includes a concentrator attachment.
Each model folds, has an ALCI plug which prevents overloading and support dual voltage making both ideal for visiting Thailand in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a Thai power outlet. [10] [10] [11] [AD]
What is a good blow dryer for thick curly hair?
Thicker hair takes much longer to dry and might be difficult to do so without hair turning frizzy, so the best option will be an ionic blow dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly. Both an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic will be suitable because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair. [12] [13] [AD]
What is the best travel hair dryer with a diffuser attachment for Thailand?
- A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65 metre electric power cable, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but it is missing a cool shot feature.
- The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a long 1.82 metre electric power cord for more flexibility when styling with an ALCI safety plug and removable filter for easy cleaning. It also utilises a strong 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it ideal for drying thick hair.
Both ionic travel hair dryers feature a diffuser and concentrator with strong enough motors to make them the best travel hair dryers suitable for thick hair. Each dryer is lightweight and folds up to fit in a carry-on bag, only requiring a suitable plug adapter for Thailand to work with a Thai power outlet. [12] [13] [13] [AD]
What is the best mini ionic dual voltage travel hair dryer?
- For quickly drying fine or thin hair whilst on the go then a ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the best value mini ionic hairdryer available to buy.
- A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is both lightweight and small enough to transport in a purse because of a 10.5 ounce body and folding handle that includes options found on larger blow dryers including a removable filter and a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage which results in a glossier finish.
Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used in combination with a suitable plug adapter for a Thai power outlet they will work in Thailand and fold conveniently enough to be carried around during the day for styling on the go. Both include a concentrator attachment, have 1.5 metre electric power cables and a two speed motor. [14] [14] [15] [AD]
Best hair dryers for travel
Which is the best hair dryer for Thailand?
Conair MiniPRO |
BaByliss PRO |
Conair Compact |
Berta Folding |
X5 Superlite |
Hot Tools 1044 |
|
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Class | Mini | Compact | Compact with diffuser | |||
Works in Thailand | 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.
Thailand power outlets and plug sockets
What is the mains voltage in Thailand?
The residential voltage in Thailand is 220 volts.
What frequency is used in a Thai power outlet?
The frequency of the current from a Thai power outlet is 50 Hz. [16]
Which plug adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in Thailand?
There are three types of power outlets used in Thailand, these are type B, A and C with the primary power outlets being type B:
- Plug Type A - The power outlet, technically called a type A power outlet, can be recognised by the two slots adjacent to each other where the live and neutral pins slide into.
- Plug Type B - You can identify this power outlet by the two slots next to each other for live and neutral blades with a hole below for the slightly long grounded pin.
- Plug Type C - You can identify this plug outlet by the two round holes adjacent to each other for live and neutral pins.
A Type B power adapter will allow you to use a 220 volt hair dryer in Thailand - read the simple instructions below for full details of using a hair dryer in Thailand. Please note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to confirm if you also need to bring a power converter. [4] [17] [AD]
Dual voltage hair dryers
How should you change the voltage on a travel hair dryer?
- Normal dual voltage hair dryers have a switch which changes between two voltages although some hair dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from a Thai power outlet.
- The switch or dial needs either a coin or screwdriver to set the dryer to the correct voltage between a 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
- In addition to switching this it's worth noting down the two switch positions as the painted numbers are prone to rubbing off on certain models of dryer.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?
An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer will handle a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the base, handle or the plug. This location will depend on the make and model of your hair dryer and should also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair dryers can change automatically but other hair dryer models will feature a button which allows you to toggle between different voltage ranges depending on which country you are in.
- A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Thailand then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Thai 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 220 volts used in a Thai power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Thailand.
- A larger voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Thailand or any other country.
How do I use a dual voltage blow dryer in Thailand?
- First ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or it will operate with a 220 volt power outlet.
- If the hair dryer is dual voltage please make sure that it is switched to the 220-240v range. This is usually found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to switch.
- Plug the hair dryer into the power adapter for Thailand, then plug in the power adapter into the Thai power outlet.
- It is common on most travel hair dryer models operating within the 220-240V range to only work safely on a low speed setting - however this temperature and speed should be adequate enough for drying hair. We recommend checking the hair dryer guidelines to find out if this is relevant for your model of dual voltage dryer to prevent overheating.
- The dryer is now ready to be used with a Thai power outlet.
Travelling to Thailand with a hair dryer
Can you bring a hair dryer in your carry on luggage to Thailand?
According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered blow dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA recommends that you should check that your airline who is taking you to Thailand will allow a blow dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing your 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 and should avoid a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cords tightly around blow dryers). If you do intend to pack 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. [18] [19] [20] [AD]
Do hotel rooms in Thailand have hair dryers?
This will all depend on the hotel or bed and breakfast and the quality of the accommodation. Hotel hair dryers are normally found attached to a bathroom wall, these could be a slower air hose variety, or could be found in a bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard. In budget hotels, motels and hostels a communal hair dryer might be available at reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt as to hotel hairdryer policy then either look on the hotel web site or telephone the hotel in Thailand to find out if a suitable hairdryer available for guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are usable but typically rudimentary models with no diffuser, notorious for low heat and slower air speeds. For those concerned with hygiene should check for grime from previous guests on a communal hair dryer as room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.
Guests who are uncertain that a suitable or hygienic hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer or telephone their hotel in Thailand to check before travelling. [21] [AD]
Should you bring a travel hair dryer or domestic hair dryer to Thailand?
Bringing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing your existing blow dryer to Thailand (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Thai power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Thailand). Travel hair dryers typically feature a collapsible handle and are lighter, this will help reduce the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic blow dryer.
It is also worth bearing in mind that bringing your expensive domestic blow dryer could put it at risk because of potential damage or loss in transit by airport baggage handlers. The cost and inconvenience of repairing an expensive specialised domestic hair dryer in Thailand could be higher than buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off . [19] [AD]
Power converters for Thailand
Do I need a converter for Thailand to use a hair dryer?
The correct type power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 220 volt power outlet used in Thailand. A power converter is more suited for travellers wishing to bring their own hair dryer, however it can be cheaper to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it will be to purchase a power converter. Also worth noting, a power converter is substantially bulkier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suited for travelling compared to a travel hair dryer. [9] [AD]
What is the difference between a plug adapter and a power converter for Thailand?
A heavy and expensive power converter converts the voltage of 220 volts from a Thai power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer, whereas a cheaper and smaller power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Thailand. [9] [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Thailand using a type B power adapter
How to power your hair dryer in Thailand using a Type B power adapter.
- Make sure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 220 volt power supply but if not then do not proceed as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer make sure the switch is set to accept 220 volts for use in Thailand - consult the owners manual for more details on how to do this.
- You'll need to bring a Type B power adapter [4] if the type of power outlet used in Thailand isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair dryer. The Type B power adapter will adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet in Thailand simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 220 volt outlet.
- Begin the process by taking the Type B power adapter and inserting it in the Thai power outlet. You can recognise this plug supply by the 2 thin slots parallel to each other where the short two plug outlet blades slide into with a single hole below for the slightly long earth pin.
- Plug in the hair dryer into the Type B power adapter.
- Switch on the Thai power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be used in Thailand. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Thailand using a type C power adapter
How to power your hair dryer in Thailand with a Type C travel charger.
- Please check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 220 volt power outlet - if not then do not attempt these instructions because you could 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 the 220 volt setting to use in Thailand, refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on where the switch is found.
- You'll need to bring a Type C power adapter [6] if the shape of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Thailand. The power adapter is designed to convert different plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet used in Thailand by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
- Start by taking the Type C power adapter and plugging it in the Thai power outlet. You can recognise this plug supply by the 2 circular holes next to each other where the two plug outlet pins slide into.
- Plug in the hair dryer into the Type C power adapter.
- Switch on the Thai power outlet.
- The hair dryer can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Thailand using a type A power adapter
A guide showing how to use a hair dryer in Thailand using a 2 pronged Type A power adapter.
- Make sure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 220 volt power supply; but if not then do not proceed as you may create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer make sure the switch is set to accept 220 volts to use in Thailand - consult the user guide for more information on how to do this.
- 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 can work with a 220 volt power supply). If the shape of the power outlet which is used in Thailand won't accomodate the plug on your hair dryer you'll need to bring a Type A power adapter [8]. This plug adapter is designed to convert different plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet used in Thailand by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
- First you'll need to plug the Type A power adapter in the power outlet. The wall outlet, sometimes known as the Type A power outlet [7], can be recognised by the two slots next to each other for live and neutral blades.
- Then plug in your hair dryer into the Type A power adapter.
- Turn on the Thai power outlet. You can now switch on the hair dryer in Thailand. [AD]
See also
External links
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- Wikipedia - Thailand Wikipedia page
- Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
- iec.ch - Type B power outlet
- Type B power 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 C power outlet
- Type C power 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..
- iec.ch - Type A power outlet
- Type A power 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 -
- tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
- Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
- Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
- Dual voltage travel hair dryer - Features for a travel hair dryer include a foldable handle for easy packing, dual voltage for international use, and multiple heat and speed settings to accommodate different hair types..