Using a hair dryer in Vietnam
Will my blowdryer work in Vietnam?
First check your hair dryer can work in Vietnam:
- If your hair dryer can run on 220 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can check) then you'll only need to bring the correct power adapter listed below if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit in the outlet.
If not then:
- Use a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] - you could need an appropriate power adapter for Vietnam but these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for travelling. Before buying read the recommendations for the best hair driers which will work with a Vietnamese power outlet, things to consider when purchasing a blow dryer and a comparison table of six of the best dual voltage blow dryers.
- Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 220 volt Vietnamese power outlet, however this is considerably bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but not the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of power outlet used in Vietnam, therefore check that your power converter has the right power adapter for Vietnam otherwise you will need to bring another power adapter. Please note that your personal hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you could risk potential damage in your luggage. [9] [AD]
Using a hair dryer in Vietnam
Will my hair dryer work in Vietnam?
That will depend on if your hair dryer can operate using the 220 volts which are used in Vietnam. 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 correct plug adapter then you should be able to use it in Vietnam. 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 the guide on will a power converter work with a hair dryer in Vietnam for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [9] [AD]
Best travel hair dryers for Vietnam
Multiple speed options on a travel hair dryer
What to look for when choosing a travel hair dryer for Vietnam
When choosing the best hair dryer look for a robust but light dual-voltage dryer which will work with a 220 volt Vietnamese power outlet power outlet with a long power cord, folding handle and a safety plug. When drying thick hair look for a model with a diffuser that uses a stronger 1600+ watt motor.
What should I look for when purchasing a blow dryer?
- Thicker hair might need a hair dryer with a more powerful motor - a high wattage ceramic dryer that has a diffuser will dry hair much faster to avoid damage.
- Safe travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will reduce the risk of overloading that could start fires - models are identified with the two test and reset buttons.
- Hotel rooms could have a fixed mirror positioned too far away from a convenient outlet which makes it hard to operate the blow dryer, so when buying a hair dryer look for the lengthiest power cord available.
- Instead of scouring stores to look for more expensive third party attachments to fit the barrel size perfectly it could be more convenient and cheaper purchasing a hair dryer which is supplied with both a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer as these are designed to fit perfectly.
- Don't risk buying the cheapest travel hair dryer - as well as concerns with safety there is also a greater risk that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to cheaper components.
- The most suitable hair dryers should allow you to change both temperature and speed with 2 options - a lower temperature with a slower speed will reduce damage to hair and hotter faster speeds can dry thicker hair quickly.
- In order to function with a 220 volt Vietnamese power outlet a hair dryer needs to be dual voltage.
- The cool shot button on modern travel dryers will rapidly cool down the hair after drying to hold a style but this feature might be lacking in smaller dryers.
- Try to look for lightweight travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers with a handle which folds mean more room to pack other items.
Berta Folding Hair Dryer
What is the best travel hair dryer with cool shot?
- Using a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features cool shot which can be used to rapidly cool down hair.
- The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot button, uses a tourmaline ceramic outlet resulting in faster drying, twin heat settings, a longer 1.8m electric power cable and includes a concentrator.
Both models can fold, include an ALCI plug to prevent overloading and support dual voltage making both perfect for travel to Vietnam in carry on luggage if used with a power adapter for a Vietnamese power outlet. [10] [10] [11] [AD]
Which is the best hair dryer for thick and curly hair?
Thicker hair can take much longer to dry and could be hard to dry without the hair turning frizzy. The best option is an ionic dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are suitable to dry and manage hair smoothly. Either an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic will be suitable because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair. [12] [13] [AD]
BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator
Which is the smallest dual voltage hair dryer for Vietnam?
- The Conair MiniPRO is the best value small ionic blowdryer available on the market, the 1200 watt ceramic dryer will be suitable for quickly drying fine and thin hair whilst on the go.
- The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is compact enough to transport in a handbag due to it's 10.5 ounce body and folding handle and has features found on larger hair dryers including a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect from heat damage during styling resulting in a glossier finish.
Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used with a suitable plug adapter for a Vietnamese power outlet they should work in Vietnam and fold conveniently enough to be carried for styling on the go. They have a 2 speed motor, have a 1.5 metre power cable and include a concentrator attachment. [14] [14] [15] [AD]
Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator
Which is the best dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser attachment?
- A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65 metre power cable, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser but it lacks cool shot.
- A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a longer 1.82 metre power cord for more freedom when drying with an ALCI safety plug and removable filter for cleaning. It also utilises a powerful 1875 watt motor including a cool shot option making it perfect for styling thick hair.
Both ionic hair dryers feature a concentrator and diffuser with powerful enough motors to make them the most suitable hair dryers for thick hair. They are both lightweight and fold up to fit into a carry-on bag and only require a suitable cheap plug adapter for Vietnam to work with a Vietnamese power outlet. [12] [13] [13] [AD]
Best hair dryers for travel
Which is the best blow dryer to buy for Vietnam?
| Conair MiniPRO  |
BaByliss PRO  |
Conair Compact  |
Berta Folding  |
X5 Superlite  |
Hot Tools 1044  |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class | Mini | Compact | Compact with diffuser | |||
| Works in Vietnam | 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.
Vietnam power outlets and plug sockets
What voltage is used in Vietnam?
Power outlets in Vietnam are 220 volts.
What is the frequency used in a Vietnamese power outlet?
The frequency from a Vietnamese power outlet is 50 Hz. [16]
Type A, C and G power outlets
Which travel adapter will you need to use a hair dryer in Vietnam?
There are three different types of power outlets used in Vietnam, types G, A and C with the primary power outlets being type G:
- Plug Type A - This power socket (also called the type A power outlet) can be recognised by the two thin adjacent slots where the plug socket pins go.
- Plug Type C - You can identify this plug socket by the 2 adjacent holes.
- Plug Type G - This power socket (called a type G power outlet) can be recognised by the three slots with shutters forming a triangle configuration for live, neutral and ground pins.
A Type G plug adapter will allow you to use a 220 volt hair dryer in Vietnam, read the simple guide below for full details of using a power adapter for Vietnam. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also need to use a power converter. [6] [17] [AD]
Dual voltage hair dryers
How can you switch a dual voltage hair dryer?
- Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which selects between two sets of voltages although some hair dryers can automatically detect the voltage from a Vietnamese power outlet.
- The switch or dial needs a coin or screwdriver to set the hair dryer to the correct voltage between a 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
- Also, it's worth noting down the 2 switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to fading on certain models.
Dual voltage hair dryer
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?
An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer supports dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or plug. The location might depend on the make and model of your hair dryer, it could also state on the box. Some dual voltage hair dryers can change automatically, however other hair dryer models will have a button which allows you to change between different regions.
- Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Vietnam then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Vietnamese 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 220 volts used in a Vietnamese power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Vietnam.
- Dual voltage will typically say a larger range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Vietnam or any other country if these numbers are shown.
How can I use a dual voltage hair dryer in Vietnam?
- First check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and it will work with a 220 volt power outlet.
- If your hair dryer supports dual voltage then make sure it is switched to operate within the 220-240v range. The switch is normally found on the base or handle of the blow dryer and requires a coin or screwdriver to switch.
- Plug the dryer into the power adapter for Vietnam and then plug in the power adapter into the Vietnamese power outlet.
- It's common on most dual voltage hair dryer models operating in the 220-240v range to only work safely on their lowest speed setting, but this speed should still be sufficient enough for drying hair. We recommend checking the manufacturers guidelines to find out if this rule is applicable for your model of dual voltage dryer to stop overheating.
- The hair dryer is now ready to be used in Vietnam.
Travelling to Vietnam with a hair dryer
Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on
Can a blow dryer go in my carry on luggage to Vietnam?
According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA also recommends that you should check that your airline which is taking you to Vietnam will allow a blow dryer 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 for airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping wires tightly around electronic items such as hair dryers). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the most protection against knocks and bumps during transit. [18] [19] [20] [AD]
Hotel hair dryer
Do hotel rooms in Vietnam have hair dryers?
This depends on the hotel or bed and breakfast and the class of the accommodation. Hair dryers in hotels are typically found attached to a bathroom wall unit, these could be a slower air hose variety, or might be located in the bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard.
When staying in budget motels, hotels and hostels a communal hair dryer could be available at the reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer policy you could either call ahead to your hotel in Vietnam or look on the booking web site to find out if a suitable hairdryer available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but normally basic models with no diffuser, notorious for providing slow air speeds and low heat. For those concerned with hygiene should remove burnt hair from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.
Remember, if you are in doubt either telephone ahead to the hotel in Vietnam or use a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. [2] [AD]
Is it safe to bring a domestic hair dryer to Vietnam?
Bringing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to bringing an existing hair dryer to Vietnam (typically marked with 'For domestic use only') as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Vietnamese power outlet (as long as you use the correct power adapter for Vietnam). Travel hair dryers normally feature a collapsible handle and will be much lighter, this will help in reducing the size and weight in luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer.
Note that bringing an expensive domestic hair dryer might put it at risk because of potential loss or damage in your suitcase by airline baggage handlers. The inconvenience and costs of replacing an expensive quality domestic hair dryer in Vietnam could overshadow the cost of buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before travelling to bring with you . [19] [AD]
Power converters for Vietnam
Voltage converter
What is the difference between a power adapter and a voltage converter?
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 in Vietnam, however a more expensive and heavier power converter converts a 220 volt Vietnamese power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer. [9] [AD]
Do I need a voltage converter to use my hair dryer in Vietnam?
A suitable voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 220 volt power outlet used in Vietnam. A power converter is suitable for travellers who wish to use their existing hair dryer, but it can be a lot cheaper to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to buy a power converter. Also, a power converter is significantly heavier and bulkier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suited for packing. [9] [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Vietnam using a type C power adapter
How to use your hair dryer in Vietnam using a Type C travel adapter.
- Please ensure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 220 volt power outlet; but if it doesn't then do not proceed because you may create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Some blow dryers will typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer make sure the switch is set to the 220 volt setting - please consult the instructions to find out how to do this.
- If the shape of the power outlet used in Vietnam isn't the same shape as the plug shape on your hair dryer you'll need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4]. This power adapter will help adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries for use with an electrical outlet used in Vietnam 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 220 volt supply.
- Insert the Type C plug adapter in the Vietnamese power outlet. The power supply (sometimes called a Type C power outlet [3] or Europlug) is recognised by the two round holes next to each other where the twin plug outlet pins go.
- Plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
- Turn on the Vietnamese power outlet.
- You can now turn on the hair dryer to use in Vietnam. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Vietnam using a type G power adapter
How to use your hair dryer in Vietnam using a Type G power adapter.
- Check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power supply but if it doesn't then do not continue as you may damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Some dual voltage blow dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure you have set it to accept 220 volts for use in Vietnam; please consult the user guide for more details on how to do this.
- If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Vietnam you will need to buy a Type G plug adapter [6]. The plug adapter will convert different plugs from other countries into an electrical outlet in Vietnam by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
- Begin by taking the Type G plug adapter and plugging it in the wall outlet. You can identify this plug outlet by the 3 holes containing plastic shutters in a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth pins.
- Plug in your hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
- Turn on the Vietnamese power outlet.
- You can now turn on the hair dryer to use in Vietnam. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Vietnam using a type A power adapter
How to use a hair dryer in Vietnam by using a 2 prong Type A travel adapter.
- Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power supply but if it doesn't then do not continue because you may damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Some dual voltage blow dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure you have set it to the 220 volt setting for use in Vietnam, please consult the user guide for more details on how to do this.
- These instructions assume that you don't already own a hair dryer with a Type A plug - if it does then you won't need a power adapter (but you will still need to check that your hair dryer can work with a 220 volt power outlet). So, if the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Vietnam you will need to bring a Type A plug adapter [8]. The plug adapter will convert different plugs from other countries into an electrical outlet in Vietnam by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
- Begin by taking the Type A plug adapter and plugging it into the wall outlet. This power outlet, technically known as a Type A power outlet [7], is recognised by 2 slots where the live and neutral plug outlet blades go.
- Plug in the hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
- Turn on the Vietnamese power outlet.
- The hair dryer can now be used in Vietnam. [AD]
See also
External links
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- Wikipedia - Vietnam Wikipedia web page
- Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
- iec.ch - Type C power outlet
- Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
- iec.ch - Type G power outlet
- Type G plug adapter - An earthed BS 1363 certified UK power adapter, featuring a fuse to protect against overload and consequent fire risks. Ideal for use in over 50 countries, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and also in international cities like Dubai and Hong Kong..
- 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 -
- 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.
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