How do I use my hair dryer in Finland?
Can I use my blow dryer in Finland?
First check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Finland:
- If your hair dryer can run on 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you will only need to bring the correct power adapter for Finland listed below if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit in the outlet.
If not then either:
- Use a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] - you may still need an appropriate power adapter for Finland but these lightweight accessories are designed specifically for the rigors of travelling. See our comprehensive recommendations for the best dual voltage blow driers guaranteed to work in Finland, nine tips for purchasing a 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 230 volt Finnish 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 shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Finland, therefore please check that the power converter comes with the right power adapter for Finland otherwise you will still need to bring a seperate power adapter. Please be aware your own existing hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you could risk damage in your suitcase. [7] [AD]
Using a hair dryer in Finland
Will my hair dryer work in Finland?
This depends on if your hair dryer can handle the 230 volt power outlets used in Finland. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can handle 230 volts and you have the correct power adapter then you can use it in Finland. 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 the section on do you need a voltage converter to use your hair dryer for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]
Best travel hair dryers for Finland
Choosing the best travel blow dryer
When choosing the best hair dryer look for a sturdy but lightweight dual-voltage model which operates with a 230 volt Finnish power outlet power outlet with a folding handle, long cable and a safety plug. If drying thick hair buy a model which includes a diffuser that uses a faster 1600+ watt motor.
Things to consider when buying a new hair dryer
- Ideal travel hair dryers should let you to control both speed and temperature with high and low options, lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to hair whilst a faster hotter speed can quickly dry wet hair.
- It might be cheaper and more convenient purchasing a new dryer which includes a diffuser and concentrator rather than scouring stores to look for expensive third party attachments.
- Hotel rooms in Finland could have a mirror positioned too far away from a outlet which makes it hard to use the hair dryer, therefore when buying a blow dryer search for the unit with the lengthiest power cord available or use either a power extension cord or a hand mirror.
- Try looking for lightweight travel hair dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, dryers with a folding handle will mean more space.
- If you have curlier or thicker hair then you could need a travel hair dryer with a more powerful motor. A higher wattage ceramic dryer which has a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby avoiding damage.
- The safest travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which reduces the risk of overloading the motor leading to starting a fire - these can be recognised by 'reset' and 'test' switches on the plug.
- A 'cool shot' button will quickly cool hair down after drying to hold in a style but this feature is missing in smaller dryers.
- Your hair dryer has to be dual voltage in order to operate with a 230 volt Finnish power outlet.
- You shouldn't be tempted to go for the cheapest travel dryer on the market; as well as concerns with safety there is a greater chance that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to cheaper components.
What is a good dual voltage travel hair dryer for Finland?
- Using a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features cool shot which can will rapidly cool hair down.
- The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot setting, a ceramic tourmaline air outlet resulting in safer styling, 2 heat settings, a longer 1.8m power cable and comes with a concentrator.
Both models fold, include an ALCI safety plug to prevent power overloads and support dual voltage making them perfect for travel to Finland in carry on luggage when used with a power adapter for a Finnish power outlet. [8] [8] [9] [AD]
What is a good hair dryer for thick hair?
Thick hair will take much longer to dry and might be difficult to dry without your hair going frizzy, the best option will be an ionic dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly. Both 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 that is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair. [10] [11] [AD]
What is the best mini ionic travel hair dryer?
- For quickly drying fine or thin hair whilst on the go then a ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the most cost effective mini ionic hairdryer available to buy.
- For a folding hairdryer which is compact enough to carry in a handbag then the 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat for a glossy finish this dryer has features which are typically reserved for larger dryers.
Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used with the right power adapter for a Finnish power outlet they should work in Finland and fold conveniently enough to be carried for drying on the go. Both have a 2 speed motor, have a 1.5m power cable and include a concentrator. [12] [12] [13] [AD]
Which is a good dual voltage ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment for Finland?
- The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m power cable, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser however lacks cool shot.
- A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a long 1.82 metre 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 a cool shot option making it more suited for drying thick hair.
Each ionic hair dryer includes a diffuser and concentrator with powerful motors to make them the best travel hair dryers suitable for thick hair. Each dryer is lightweight and folds up to fit in carry-on baggage, only requiring a suitable plug adapter for Finland to fit into a Finnish power outlet. [10] [11] [11] [AD]
Best hair dryers for travel
Which is the best travel blow dryer to buy for Finland?
Conair MiniPRO |
BaByliss PRO |
Conair Compact |
Berta Folding |
X5 Superlite |
Hot Tools 1044 |
|
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Class | Mini | Compact | Compact with diffuser | |||
Works in Finland | 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.
Finland power outlets and plug sockets
What is the electrical frequency used with a Finnish power outlet?
The frequency of the alternating current from a Finnish power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]
What mains voltage is used in Finland?
Power outlets in Finland are 230 volts.
Which plug adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in Finland?
There are two types of power outlets used in Finland, these are type F and C with the primary power outlets being type F:
- Plug Type C - The wall socket, also called the Europlug, can be recognised by the 2 round adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral pins.
- Plug Type F - You can identify the power outlet by the two large holes 19 mm adjacent to each other for live and neutral and a pair of thin grounding clips above and below.
A Type F power adapter allows you to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Finland - read the step-by-step guide below for full details of how to use a travel adapter for Finland. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also need to use a voltage converter. [6] [15] [AD]
Dual voltage hair dryers
How do you use your dual voltage blow dryer in Finland?
- First ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or it operates with a 230 volt power outlet.
- If the hair dryer is dual voltage please make sure that it is set to work in the 220-240v range. This is usually found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to switch.
- Plug the hair dryer into the power adapter for Finland, also plug in the power adapter into the Finnish power outlet.
- It's normal for most travel hair dryer models operating within the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on their lowest setting, however this temperature and speed should be sufficient for drying hair. Please check the hair dryer guidelines to find out if this is applicable for your model of hair dryer to avoid overheating.
- The dryer can now be used in Finland.
How do I switch the voltage on a dual voltage travel hair dryer?
- Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which toggles between 2 voltages although some dryers can automatically detect the voltage used in Finland.
- This switch or dial requires either a small screwdriver or coin to set the dryer to the correct voltage between a 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
- In addition to switching this it's worth making a note of the 2 switch positions as the painted numbers are prone to rubbing off on certain models of travel dryer.
How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?
The method to tell if your hair dryer supports dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, handle or the base of your hair dryer. The location might vary depending on the make or model of your hair dryer, it could also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage hair dryers can change automatically, however other hair dryers will have a button or switch which allows you to change between different regions.
- Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Finland then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Finnish power outlet.
- Single voltage could also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 230 volts used in a Finnish power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Finland.
- Dual voltage will typically say a large voltage range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Finland or any other country if these numbers are shown.
Travelling to Finland with a hair dryer
Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Finland?
Depending on the individual hotel and class of the accommodation a hair dryer might be available in the hotel room, either packed in the bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer, found attached to a bathroom wall or could potentially be a slower air hose variety.
If staying in cheaper hostels, motels and hotels a communal hair dryer could be offered at the reception but might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer availability you can either telephone your hotel in Finland or look on the hotel web site to find out what is available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but are normally basic models lacking a diffuser, notorious for providing slow air speeds and low heat. Those concerned with hygiene should remove any burnt hair from other guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.
Travellers who don't want to take a chance that a suitable and germ-free hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer. [16] [AD]
Should you bring a travel hair dryer or domestic hair dryer to Finland?
It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer rather than packing an existing domestic hair dryer to Finland (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Finnish power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Finland). Travel hair dryers typically feature a folding handle and are much lighter, this will help reduce the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer. Please note that bringing your expensive domestic blow dryer might place it at risk due to potential damage or loss in transit by an airline baggage handler in Finland. The cost of repairing an expensive specialised domestic blow dryer in Finland might be higher than buying a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case . [17] [AD]
Can I bring a blow dryer in my carry on?
According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on 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 check that the airline which is flying you to Finland will allow a hair dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.
Packing the blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible when going through airport security, it can be packed away quickly and should 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 hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this provides the greatest protection against drops and knocks during transit. [17] [18] [19] [AD]
Power converters for Finland
What is the difference between a voltage converter and a power adapter for Finland?
A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Finland, but a heavy and bulkier power converter converts the voltage of 230 volts from a Finnish power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]
Do you need a power converter in Finland to use your hair dryer?
A voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 230 volt power outlet used in Finland. Travellers wishing to bring their own hair dryer can use a power converter, but it can be more costly to purchase a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also, a travel hair dryer can be substantially smaller than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for travelling. [7] [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Finland using a type C power adapter
A page showing how to use a hair dryer in Finland with a 2 pronged Type C power charger.
- Check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 230 volt power supply but if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Some dual voltage blow dryers might typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer ensure the switch is set to accept 230 volts; please refer to the user guide to find out where this switch is.
- If the shape of the power outlet which is used in Finland isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair dryer you'll need to bring a Type C power adapter [4]. This plug adapter is designed to convert different plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet used in Finland by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
- Start by taking the Type C power adapter and plugging it into the Finnish power outlet. You can recognise this plug supply by the two round holes next to each other for live and neutral pins.
- After that plug in the hair dryer into the Type C power adapter.
- Switch on the Finnish power outlet.
- Your hair dryer can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Finland using a type F power adapter
How to power your hair dryer in Finland by using a Type F travel charger.
- Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply but 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 dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages make sure the switch is set to accept 230 volts; please consult the owners manual to find out where this switch is.
- If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Finland you'll need to bring a Type F power adapter [6]. This plug adapter is designed to fit plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet used in Finland 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 230 volt supply.
- Start by plugging the Type F power adapter into the power outlet. The circular wall outlet can be recognised by the two 4.8mm round adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral pins, plus thin grounding clips at the top and bottom.
- Plug in the hair dryer into the Type F power adapter.
- Turn on the Finnish power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be used in Finland. [AD]
See also
- What can I connect to a Finnish power outlet?
- What can I connect to a hair dryer?
- Can I charge my phone in Europe?
- Can I use my phone in Europe?
- Do I need a converter for my phone in Europe?
- Will my phone charger work in Europe?
- What are the dangers of using the wrong mobile phone charger in Europe?
- What do I need to charge my phone in Europe?
- How to call the US from Europe
- What plug sockets are found in Europe?
- Will my hairdryer work in Europe?
- Can I use my flat iron in Europe?
- What is the cheapest airport to fly into in Europe?
- How to travel Europe by train
- How much is a Europass?
- Can I buy Rail Europe tickets at the station?
- Can I buy a rail pass in Europe?
- Can I buy Eurostar tickets on the station?
- Where can I buy Euros from?
- What denominations do Euros come in?
- Can I buy Euros at any bank?
- How do I convert dollars to Euros?
- Can I buy Euros with a credit card?
- Does Sweden use the Euro?
- Does the United Kingdom use the Euro?
- Does Denmark use the Euro?
- How long can an American stay in Europe for?
- Which countries are in the Schengen Area?
- What is the most spoken language in Europe?
- How many different languages are spoken in Europe?
- How many countries are there in Europe?
- What countries are in Eastern Europe?
- What countries are in Western Europe?
- What is Northern Europe?
- What countries are not in the European Union?
External links
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- Wikipedia - Wikipedia.org web page about Finland
- Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
- 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 F power outlet
- Type F power adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
- 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 -
- 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..
- Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
- tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
- Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.