Using your hair dryer in Ukraine

Ukrainian power outlet

Can I use my blow dryer in Ukraine?

Check that your hair dryer can work in Ukraine:

If not then either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 220 volt Ukrainian power outlet, however this is substantially heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of power outlet used in Ukraine, so check that your power converter includes a suitable power adapter for Ukraine otherwise you will still need to bring a seperate power adapter. Note - your own personal hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you risk potential damage in a suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 220 volts you run the potential risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or a blown fuse. Before attempting to use your hair dryer in Ukraine check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Ukraine

Will my hair dryer work in Ukraine?

This depends on if your hair dryer can operate using the 220 volts as used in Ukraine. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can operate using 220 volts and you have the appropriate plug adapter then you should be able to use the hair dryer in Ukraine. 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 section on can you use a power converter to use a domestic hair dryer in Ukraine for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Ukraine

Choosing the best travel hair dryer for Ukraine

Dual voltage switch on a travel hair dryer

Choosing the best travel hair dryer for Ukraine

When looking for the best hair dryer for Ukraine choose a strong but light dual-voltage model that works with a 220 volt Ukrainian power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, ALCI safety plug and a long power cord. For drying thicker hair look for a model which includes a bundled diffuser that has a stronger 1600+ watt dryer.

What should you look for when purchasing a hair dryer?

  1. Don't risk buying the cheapest hair dryer available, as well as issues with safety there is a greater chance that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to a flimsy build.
  2. Your travel hair dryer needs to support dual voltage to work with a 220 volt Ukrainian power outlet.
  3. The safest travel hair dryers will include an ALCI safety plug which minimises the danger of the motor overloading that could start a fire - you can idenfity models with the two reset and test switches.
  4. A modern hair dryer could feature a cool shot button for rapidly cooling hair down after drying to hold the style but this option is lacking in smaller models.
  5. If you have thicker hair then you might require a blow dryer which has a stronger motor - a high wattage ceramic model which has a diffuser will dry hair much faster to prevent damage.
  6. Depending on your accommodation there might be a fixed mirror installed away from the nearest outlet which could make it awkward to use the hair dryer, therefore when buying a travel blow dryer shop for the longest power cord available or bring either a power extension cord or a hand mirror.
  7. Look for a lighter travel hair dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models which have folding handles mean more room.
  8. Instead of scouring shops looking for expensive 3rd party attachments which fit the dryer barrel size securely it might be more convenient to buy a hair dryer that includes both a diffuser and concentrator.
  9. Ideal travel hair dryers for styling allow you to alter the temperature and speed settings with 2 options, a slower speed with a lower temperature will prevent damage to hair whilst a faster hotter speed can dry thicker hair faster.
Which is a good dual voltage hair dryer with a diffuser?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

Which is a good dual voltage hair dryer with a diffuser?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65 metre electric power cable, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser but it doesn't have cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a lengthy 1.82m power cable for more flexibility when drying with an ALCI power plug and removable filter for easy cleaning. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it also has a cool shot feature making it more suited for drying thicker hair.

Both ionic hair dryers include a concentrator and diffuser attachment with strong enough motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. They are lightweight and will fold up to pack into a carry-on bag and will only require a suitable plug adapter for Ukraine to fit into a Ukrainian power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator

What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer?

  • For quickly drying thin and fine hair on the go the ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the most cost effective small ionic blow dryer available on the market.
  • The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is small enough to transport in a purse because of a 10.5 ounce body and folding handle that has features reserved for larger hair dryers such as a tourmaline outlet which can emit infrared heat to protect from heat damage during use resulting in a shinier finish.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used in combination with a suitable plug adapter for a Ukrainian power outlet they should work in Ukraine folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried around during the day for drying on the go. Both have a 2 speed motor, have a 1.5m power cable and include a concentrator.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with cool shot for Ukraine?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with cool shot for Ukraine?

  • A Conair Compact Styler has a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and includes cool shot which can will rapidly cool down hair.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, uses a tourmaline ceramic outlet for negative ions meaning safer styling, twin heat options, a longer 1.8m power cable and includes a concentrator attachment.

Each model folds, includes an ALCI plug which prevents power overloads and has dual voltage making both ideal for travel to Ukraine in carry on luggage when used with a power adapter for a Ukrainian power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is a good hair dryer for thick curly hair?

Thicker hair takes much longer to dry and can be hard to do so without hair going frizzy. The best option for this type of hair is an ionic dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are suitable 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 less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [8] [9] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel blow dryer for Ukraine?

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 Ukraine 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.

Ukraine power outlets and plug sockets

What mains voltage is used in Ukraine?

The normal residential voltage in Ukraine is 220 volts.

What frequency is used in a Ukrainian power outlet?

The frequency of the current used in a Ukrainian power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]

Which travel adapter do you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Ukraine?

Type C and F power outlets

Which travel adapter do you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Ukraine?

There are two different types of power outlets used in Ukraine, these are type F and C with the primary power outlets being type F:

  • Plug Type C - The wall outlet is recognised by 2 round adjacent holes where the live and neutral pins go.
  • Plug Type F - You can identify the power outlet by the two large round holes 19 mm apart from each other and a pair of thin metal grounding clips above and below.

A recommended plug adapter to bring when using a 220 volt hair dryer in Ukraine is a Type F power adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of how to use a travel adapter for Ukraine. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to confirm if you also have to bring a power converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

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

Single voltage hair dryer

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

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer supports a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or plug of the hair dryer. The location might depend on the make or model of your hair dryer, it could also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models might change automatically but other hair dryer models will feature a button or switch which allows you to change between different regions.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Ukraine then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Ukrainian 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 Ukrainian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Ukraine.
  • A larger voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Ukraine or any other country.

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

  1. Most brands of dual voltage hair dryers have some type of switch or dial which selects between two voltages although some hair dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Ukraine.
  2. This switch or dial will typically require a small screwdriver or coin to change the hair dryer to the right voltage between a 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
  3. In addition to switching this it's worth jotting down the 2 switch positions as the painted numbers can occasionally rub off on some models.

How do I use my dual voltage blow dryer in Ukraine?

  1. Check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it operates with a 220 volt power socket.
  2. If your dryer supports 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 blow dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug your dryer into the correct power adapter for Ukraine and also plug in the power adapter into the Ukrainian power outlet.
  4. It's normal for a majority of dual voltage hair dryer models operating within the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on their lowest speed setting - however this speed should still be adequate enough for drying hair. Check the manufacturers instructions to see if this rule is relevant for your model of hair dryer to stop overheating.
  5. The dryer is now ready to operate with a Ukrainian power outlet.

Travelling to Ukraine with a hair dryer

Is a hairdryer allowed onboard a flight to Ukraine?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Is a hairdryer allowed onboard a flight to Ukraine?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also recommends that you should check that the airline which is taking you to Ukraine 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 when going through airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping wires tightly around electronic items). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the most protection against knocks and drops during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Is it safe to bring my domestic hair dryer to Ukraine?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer instead of packing an existing domestic hair dryer to Ukraine (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Ukrainian power outlet (provided that you bring the correct power adapter for Ukraine). Some types of travel hair dryer will typically feature a collapsible handle and are much lighter which helps reduce the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer.

It is also worth bearing in mind that bringing an expensive domestic hair dryer could put it at risk due to potential loss or damage in your luggage by an airline baggage handler in Ukraine. The cost of repairing an expensive specialised domestic blow dryer in Ukraine could outweigh the cost of purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case beforehand to bring along .  [17] [AD]

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Ukraine?

Hotel hair dryer

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Ukraine?

It depends on the hotel or bed and breakfast and the quality of the accommodation. Hotel room hair dryers are normally found in the bathroom, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or might be located in the bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer.

If staying in cheaper motels, hotels and hostels a shared hair dryer could be offered at the reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer policy then either call ahead to the hotel in Ukraine or look on the hotel web site to find out what is available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but are typically rudimentary models with no diffuser and notorious for low heat and slower air speeds. Those concerned with hygiene should check for the burnt hair from other guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

For travellers who aren't sure 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 Ukraine to check before travelling.  [2] [AD]

Power converters for Ukraine

Do you need a voltage converter to use your hair dryer in Ukraine?

The correct voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 220 volt power outlet used in Ukraine. Travellers who wish to use their existing 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]

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

Voltage converter

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

A heavy and bulky power converter will convert the voltage of 220 volts from a Ukrainian power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer, whereas a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Ukraine. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Ukraine using a type C power adapter

A page showing how to power your hair dryer in Ukraine with a Type C power adapter.

  1. Please ensure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 220 volt power outlet - if it doesn't then don't continue because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Some dual voltage blow dryers will typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting; please refer to the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Ukraine you will need to use a Type C plug adapter [4]. This Type C plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries for use in a power outlet found in Ukraine by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type C plug adapter into the wall outlet. This ungrounded plug outlet (sometimes called the Europlug or Type C power outlet [3]) is identified by the 2 circular holes next to each other where the live and neutral pins go.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Ukrainian power outlet. The hair dryer should now be ready to use. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Ukraine using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Ukraine using a type F power adapter

How to power your hair dryer in Ukraine with a two pinned Type F power adapter.

  1. Please check that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power outlet 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. Some dual voltage travel blow dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure you have set it to accept 220 volts; please consult the owners manual for more details on how to do this.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Ukraine you will need to buy a Type F plug adapter [6]. This Type F plug adapter will adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet found in Ukraine 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.
  3. Start by plugging the Type F plug adapter into the power outlet. You can identify the power supply by the two 4.8mm circular holes 19 mm apart from each other and a pair of metal grounding clips above and below.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Ukrainian power outlet. The hair dryer can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Ukraine using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Ukraine entry on wikipedia
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  4. 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..
  5. iec.ch - Type F power outlet
  6. Type F plug 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..
  7. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
  8. Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - The appliance integrates a 1875-watt motor, targeting quick and effective hair drying. The folding handle is intended for easier storage and transport..
  9. X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - This hair dryer boasts a 1600-watt motor intended for efficient hair drying. The long 1.65-meter cable provides an extra layer of convenience for users who require mobility during use..
  10. BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - With dual heat and speed settings, the device aims to cater to a variety of hair types. Its dual voltage capability, folding handle and lightweight design make it suited for international travel..
  11. Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers..
  12. Berta 1875W Folding Hair Dryer Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Negative Ions Travel Dryer - This hair dryer features two speed and heat settings, dual-voltage and a foldable handle whilst equipped with an ALCI plug to help prevent electric shock..
  13. Conair 1875 Watt Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage - This travel-ready hair dryer uses a high 1875-watt motor for efficient and rapid hair drying. Smart voltage technology adjusts to foreign voltage, maintaining heat and speed settings for convenience..
  14. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  15. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  16. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  17. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.