How do I use a hair dryer in Guernsey?

Guernsey power outlet

Can I use my blowdryer in Guernsey?

Check your hair dryer can work in Guernsey:

  • If your hair dryer can run on 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you will only need to use the correct power adapter listed below 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 230 volt Guernsey power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but won't change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Guernsey, therefore check that the voltage transformer comes with the correct power adapter for Guernsey otherwise you will still need to bring another power adapter. Note - your existing hair dryer might not be suited for travel and you risk damage in a suitcase. [5] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts you run the risk of blowing a fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Before attempting to use your hair dryer in Guernsey please check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Guernsey

Will my hair dryer work in Guernsey?

This depends on if your hair dryer is designed to handle the 230 volts as used in Guernsey. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to handle 230 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you'll be able to use it in Guernsey. If not then you will need to consider bringing either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter. Read our section on do you need a power converter to use your domestic hair dryer for help deciding which option is more suitable. [5] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Guernsey

Choosing the best blow dryer for Guernsey

An ALCI safety plug

Choosing the best blow dryer for Guernsey

When looking for the best hair dryer choose a robust but light dual-voltage dryer that will operate with a 230 volt Guernsey power outlet power outlet, has a long cord, folding handle and ALCI safety plug. For drying thick hair look for one which includes a bundled diffuser that uses a higher 1600+ watt motor.

What to look for when buying a blow dryer?

  1. To work in Guernsey a hair dryer needs to be dual voltage.
  2. Don't get the cheapest dryer - as well as safety concerns there is a greater risk that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to cheaper parts.
  3. A modern blow dryer could include a cool shot option for rapidly cooling hair down after drying to hold in the style but this feature could be missing in cheaper models.
  4. Safe travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will minimise the risk of the motor overloading that could lead to an electrical fire, you can idenfity these models with reset and test buttons.
  5. Try to look for lightweight travel hair dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers which have folding handles will mean more room to pack other items.
  6. If you have thicker hair then you may need a hair dryer which has a stronger motor. A high wattage ceramic dryer that has a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby preventing damage.
  7. Depending on the hotel room you could find they have a wall mirror installed too far away from a convenient outlet making it cumbersome to use the travel dryer, so search for the lengthiest power cord possible.
  8. The best travel hair dryers for styling will allow you to change the speed and temperature settings with high and low options - a slower speed with a lower temperature will prevent damage to your hair whilst hotter faster speeds can dry thicker wet hair faster.
  9. Instead of looking for expensive 3rd party attachments it might be more convenient and cheaper purchasing a dryer that includes a concentrator and diffuser.
Which is the best dual voltage travel ionic hair dryer with a diffuser attachment?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

Which is the best dual voltage travel ionic hair dryer with a diffuser attachment?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65m electric power cable, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser however is missing a cool shot button.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a long 1.82m electric power cable for more freedom when drying with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter for easy cleaning. With a strong 1875 watt motor it includes a cool shot button making it perfect for drying thicker hair.

Both ionic travel hair dryers include a diffuser and concentrator attachment with powerful enough motors to make them the most suitable travel blow dryers for thick hair. They are both lightweight and will fold up to fit into carry-on baggage, only requiring a suitable cheap plug adapter for Guernsey to fit into a Guernsey power outlet.  [6] [6] [7] [AD]

Which is the best mini folding travel hair dryer with dual voltage?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium

Which is the best mini folding travel hair dryer with dual voltage?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the best value small ionic hair dryer available to buy, this 1200 watt ceramic dryer will be most suited for quickly drying thin or fine hair whilst on the go.
  • For a folding hairdryer which is small enough to carry in a purse then the 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat to protect against heat damage this dryer manages to include features which are normally found with larger hairdryers.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used along with a suitable power adapter for a Guernsey power outlet they will work in Guernsey folding conveniently enough to be carried for styling on the go. Both include a concentrator, have 1.5 metre power cords and a twin speed motor.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good blow dryer for thick hair?

Thicker hair can take much longer to dry and will be difficult to do so without your hair turning frizzy. The best option for thicker hair will be an ionic hair dryer, if the hair is curly use a diffuser as both are suitable to dry and manage hair smoothly without frizz. Both the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer will be suitable as they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers, avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor that is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [6] [7] [AD]

Which is a good compact dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle

Which is a good compact dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot?

  • Using a strong two speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler includes a cool shot button which can be used to rapidly cool down hair to give a longer lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot button, uses a ceramic tourmaline air outlet for negative ions resulting in safer and quicker drying, 2 heat settings, a longer 1.8 metre power cord and includes a concentrator.

Both models fold, have an ALCI power plug to prevent overloading and has dual voltage making them ideal for travel to Guernsey in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a Guernsey power outlet.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best travel hair dryer to buy for Guernsey?

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 Guernsey 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.

Guernsey power outlets and plug sockets

What electrical frequency is used with a Guernsey power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current found in a Guernsey power outlet is 50Hz. [12]

What voltage is used in Guernsey?

Power outlets in Guernsey are 230 volts.

Which plug adapter do you need to use a hair dryer in Guernsey?

Type G power outlets are used in Guernsey. You can identify this power outlet by 3 holes containing plastic shutters forming a triangular shape for live, neutral and earth pins. A Type G plug adapter will allow you to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Guernsey; read the simple instructions below for full details of using a hair dryer in Guernsey with a power adapter. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to use a power converter.  [4] [13] [AD]

Which plug adapter do you need to use a hair dryer in Guernsey?

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can you tell if your hair dryer is dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

How can you tell if your hair dryer is dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer can handle a dual voltage outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the base, handle or the plug of your hair dryer. This location might depend on the make and model of your hair dryer, it should also be written on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair dryers can change automatically but other hair dryers will feature a button which allows you to change between different voltages depending on which country you are visiting.

  • Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Guernsey then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Guernsey 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 230 volts used in a Guernsey power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Guernsey.
  • Dual voltage will say a large voltage range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Guernsey or any other country if these numbers are shown.

How can you change the voltage on a dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have some type of switch which toggles between two sets of voltages although some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Guernsey.
  2. The switch or dial will normally require either a small coin or screwdriver to set the hair dryer to the correct voltage between the 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
  3. As well as switching this over it is worth noting down the 2 switch positions because the painted numbers can occasionally rub off on certain models of travel hair dryer.

How can you use your dual voltage blow dryer in Guernsey?

  1. First check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or that it works with a 230 volt power outlet.
  2. If your hair dryer supports dual voltage please ensure that it is switched to operate within the 220-240v range. The switch is usually found on the handle or base of the hair dryer and requires a coin or screwdriver to switch.
  3. Plug your hair dryer into the correct power adapter for Guernsey, then plug in the power adapter into the Guernsey power outlet.
  4. It's common on a majority of travel hair dryers operating within the 220-240v range to only work safely on their lowest speed setting; however the speed and temperature should still be sufficient enough for drying hair. Please check the hair dryer instructions to find out if this rule is relevant for your model of dual voltage hair dryer to avoid the risk of overheating.
  5. The hair dryer can now be used with a Guernsey power outlet.

Travelling to Guernsey with a hair dryer

Is a hair dryer allowed onboard a flight in Guernsey?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Is a hair dryer allowed onboard a flight in Guernsey?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA suggests that you should check that your airline that is taking you to Guernsey will allow hair 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 when going through airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cables tightly around blow dryers). If you do 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 provides the greatest protection against knocks and drops during transit.   [14] [15] [16] [AD]

Is it better to bring a domestic hair dryer or a travel hair dryer to Guernsey?

Packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing your existing hair dryer to Guernsey (typically marked with 'For domestic use only') as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Guernsey power outlet (provided that you bring the correct plug adapter for Guernsey). Some models of travel hair dryer will typically feature a folding handle and will be much lighter, this helps reduce the size and weight when packed in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer.

Please note that packing your expensive domestic hair dryer might put it at risk due to potential damage or loss in transit by airport baggage handlers in Guernsey. The costs involved in replacing an expensive quality domestic hair dryer in Guernsey might outweigh the costs of buying a much cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before your trip .  [15] [AD]

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Guernsey?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Guernsey?

Depending on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the hotel room, either packed away in the bedroom wardrobe, drawer or cupboard, found attached to a bathroom wall unit or could potentially be a slower air hose type. When staying in budget hostels, motels and hotels a communal hair dryer might be offered at reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt as to hotel hairdryer availability you could either telephone the hotel in Guernsey or look on the booking web site to find out what type of hairdryer is available to guests. Hair dryers in hotels are adequate but normally rudimentary models lacking a diffuser and notorious for low heat and slow air speeds. Those worried about hygiene should remove grime from other guests on a communal hair dryer as room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

Remember, if in doubt either call ahead to your hotel in Guernsey or use a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Power converters for Guernsey

Do I need a voltage converter in Guernsey to use a hair dryer?

The correct voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 230 volt power outlet used in Guernsey. A power converter is more suited for travellers wishing to bring along their existing hair dryer, but it can be more expensive to purchase a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also worth noting, a power converter is significantly heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable when travelling. [5] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet found in Guernsey, but a more expensive and heavier power converter will convert the voltage of 230 volts from a Guernsey power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer. [5] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Guernsey using a type G power adapter

How to use your hair dryer in Guernsey with a Type G power charger.

  1. Please make sure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply - but if it doesn't then do not continue as you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting for use in Guernsey, refer to the user guide for more details on where this switch is found.
  2. If the shape of the power outlet used in Guernsey isn't the same shape as the plug shape on your hair dryer you'll need to buy a Type G plug adapter [4]. The Type G plug adapter is designed to adapt different plugs from other countries for a power outlet used in Guernsey simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Start the process by taking the Type G plug adapter and plugging it into the Guernsey power outlet. The plug outlet, technically known as the Type G power outlet [3], can be recognised by the three vertical rectangular holes with plastic shutters forming a triangular pattern for live, neutral and earth pins.
  4. Next plug in the hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Guernsey power outlet. The hair dryer is now ready to use. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Guernsey using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia entry about Guernsey
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  4. 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..
  5. 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..
  6. 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..
  7. 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..
  8. 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..
  9. 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..
  10. 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..
  11. 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..
  12. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  13. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  14. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  15. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  16. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.