Using a hair dryer in Belize

Belizean power outlet

Can I use my hairdryer in Belize?

First check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Belize:

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 110 volt Belizean power outlet, however this is noticeably heavier, bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter 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 Belize, so check that your voltage transformer comes with an appropriate power adapter for Belize otherwise you will need to purchase another power adapter. Be aware that your domestic hair dryer might not be suited for travel and you could risk damage in your luggage. [9] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle the 110 volts used in Belize you run a risk of blowing a fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Before using your hair dryer in Belize check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Belize

Will my hair dryer work in Belize?

That will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 110 volt power outlets used in Belize. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to operate using 110 volts and you have the correct power adapter then you can use it in Belize. 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 can you use a power converter with your domestic hair dryer in Belize for help deciding which option is more suitable. [9] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Belize

How to choose the best hair dryer for Belize

An ALCI safety plug

How to choose the best hair dryer for Belize

When looking for the best hair dryer for Belize choose a strong but light dual voltage model that will work with a 110 volt Belizean power outlet power outlet, includes a long cord, a folding handle and a safety plug. For drying thicker hair look for a dryer with a higher 1600+ watt motor and bundled diffuser.

What should I look for when buying a travel blow dryer?

  1. Depending on the accommodation in Belize there could be a wall mirror positioned too far away from the nearest outlet which makes it awkward to use the hair dryer, therefore when buying a blow dryer search for the unit with the longest power cord possible or pack either an extension cable or portable mirror.
  2. Rather than scouring stores looking for expensive third party attachments it could be more convenient to purchase a new dryer which includes both a diffuser and a concentrator.
  3. If you have thicker or curlier hair then you could need a travel hair dryer with a more powerful motor. A higher wattage ceramic dryer which includes a diffuser will dry hair faster to avoid damage.
  4. The safest travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which reduces the risk of the motor overloading leading to starting fires, you can recognise models by the two reset and test switches.
  5. Ideal travel hair dryers for styling allow you to alter the temperature and speed settings with two options - a slower speed with a lower temperature can reduce damage to your hair whereas a hotter faster speed can quickly dry thicker hair.
  6. Buying the cheapest travel hair dryer might be risky; as well as safety issues there is also a greater risk that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to a poor construction.
  7. Try looking for lightweight travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, dryers which have a handle which folds will mean more space.
  8. A travel hair dryer needs to support dual voltage to work with a 110 volt Belizean power outlet.
  9. A cool shot button will quickly cool hair down after drying to hold in a style but this feature might be lacking in smaller or cheaper models.
What is the best compact dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot for Belize?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with attached concentrator

What is the best compact dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot for Belize?

  • A Conair Compact Styler has a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and includes a cool shot setting that can be used to rapidly cool hair down to give a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has a cool shot setting, a ceramic tourmaline outlet for negative ions resulting in safer styling, 2 heat settings, a longer 1.8m power cable and includes a concentrator attachment.

Each model folds, includes an ALCI plug which prevents overloading and support dual voltage making them ideal for visiting Belize in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a Belizean power outlet.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best blow dryer for thick curly hair?

Thicker hair takes much longer to dry and can be hard to do so without hair turning frizzy, the best option for thick hair is an ionic hair dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Either 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 less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [12] [13] [AD]

What is the best mini ionic travel hair dryer?

The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle

What is the best mini ionic travel hair dryer?

  • To dry thin or fine hair on the go the ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the cheapest small ionic blow dryer available on the market.
  • For a blow dryer which is compact enough to carry in a purse then a 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat to protect from heat damage this dryer manages to incorporate options which are normally found on bulkier models.

Both of these mini hair dryers have dual voltage when used along with the right power adapter for a Belizean power outlet they should work in Belize folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried for drying on the go. Both include a concentrator attachment, have 1.5 metre electric power cords and have a 2 speed motor.  [14] [14] [15] [AD]

What is the best travel hair dryer with diffuser attachment for Belize?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

What is the best travel hair dryer with diffuser attachment for Belize?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65m 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 greater freedom when drying with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter to clean easily. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it includes cool shot making it perfect for styling thicker hair.

Both ionic hair dryers feature a concentrator and diffuser attachment with strong enough motors to make them the best travel hair dryers suitable for thick hair. Both will require a plug adapter for Belize to plug into a Belizean power outlet, they are lightweight and will fold up to pack into carry-on baggage.  [12] [13] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best hair dryer for Belize?

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 Belize 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.

Belize power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Belize?

Power outlets in Belize are 110 volts.

What electrical frequency is used in a Belizean power outlet?

The frequency in a Belizean power outlet is 60Hz. [16]

Which plug adapter will you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Belize?

Type A, B and G power outlets

Which plug adapter will you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Belize?

There are three types of power outlets used in Belize, types G, A and B with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type A - This ungrounded plug outlet (known as the type A power outlet) is identified by 2 thin slots next to each other for live and neutral pins.
  • Plug Type B - You can recognise this plug outlet by the 2 thin slots for live and neutral blades with a single semicircular shaped hole below for the earth pin.
  • Plug Type G - You can identify this plug outlet by the three vertical holes containing plastic shutters in a triangular configuration.

A recommended plug adapter to bring for using a 110 volt hair dryer in Belize is a Type G plug adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Belize. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also need to use a voltage converter.  [6] [17] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How should you change the voltage on a travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which toggles between 2 voltages although some brands can automatically detect the voltage used in Belize.
  2. This switch or dial will typically require a small screwdriver or coin to set the hair dryer to the right voltage between the 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
  3. Also, it is worth making a note of both switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to fading on certain models.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer will handle a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or plug of the hair dryer. The location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer and 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 which allows you to operate between different regions.

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

How do you use your dual voltage hair dryer in Belize?

  1. Check that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or it operates with a 110 volt power outlet.
  2. If the hair dryer is dual voltage please make sure it is switched to the 100-127v range. This is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug the dryer into the correct power adapter for Belize and then plug in the power adapter into the Belizean power outlet.
  4. Your hair dryer can now be used in Belize.
  5. Expect travel hair dryer models which came from a country that operates with 220-240V to blow slower than expected when used with a power outlet that supplies 100-127V.

Travelling to Belize with a hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Belize have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Belize have hair dryers?

Depending on the individual hotel and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the room, either packed away in the bedroom cupboard, drawer or wardrobe, found attached to a bathroom wall or could be a slower air hose variety.

If staying in cheaper hostels, hotels and motels a communal 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 availability then either look on the hotel web site or telephone your hotel in Belize to find out what type of hairdryer is available for guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are usable but typically rudimentary models lacking a diffuser, notorious for slower air speeds and low heat. Those concerned with hygiene should check for the burnt hair from other guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

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

Can you carry on a hair dryer to Belize?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can you carry on a hair dryer to Belize?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying 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 flying you to Belize 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 by airport security, it can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cords tightly around blow dryers). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the most protection against knocks and drops during your journey.   [18] [19] [20] [AD]

Should you bring a travel hair dryer or domestic hair dryer to Belize?

Packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to bringing your existing blow dryer to Belize as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 110 volt power outlets used with a Belizean power outlet (as long as you bring the correct power adapter for Belize). A travel hair dryer will typically feature a collapsible handle and are much lighter which helps in reducing the size and weight when packed in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer. Be aware 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. The cost and inconvenience of repairing an expensive specialised domestic hair dryer in Belize could be higher than purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before your trip .  [19] [AD]

Power converters for Belize

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter for Belize?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter for Belize?

A cheap, small and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Belize, whereas a more expensive and heavier power converter will transform a 110 volt Belizean power outlet to work with a non-110 volt hair dryer. [9] [AD]

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

The correct model of power converter (or voltage transformer) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 110 volt power outlet used in Belize. Travellers wishing to bring their own hair dryer can use a power converter, however it might be more costly to purchase a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also, a power converter is substantially heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable for packing compared to a travel hair dryer. [9] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Belize using a type B power adapter

Instructions showing how to use a hair dryer in Belize using a three pronged Type B power adapter.

  1. Check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 110 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 make sure the switch is set to the 110 volt setting to use in Belize - consult the manufacturers instructions for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. If the shape of the power outlet which is used in Belize isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair dryer you'll need to bring a Type B plug adapter [4]. The Type B plug adapter will adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet in Belize simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 110 volt outlet.
  3. Firstly you'll need to plug the Type B plug adapter in the power outlet. You can identify the power supply by the two slots where the live and neutral blades go with a single hole below for the earth pin.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Belizean power outlet.
  6. Your hair dryer can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Belize using a type B power adapter

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

How to power your hair dryer in Belize with a Type G travel adapter.

  1. Check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 110 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 make sure the switch is set to the 110 volt setting to use in Belize - consult the manufacturers instructions for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. If the shape of the power outlet which is used in Belize isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair dryer you'll need to bring a Type G plug adapter [6]. The Type G plug adapter will adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet in Belize simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 110 volt outlet.
  3. Firstly you'll need to plug the Type G plug adapter in the power outlet. You can identify the power supply by the three holes forming a triangular configuration for live, neutral and earth.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Belizean power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be used in Belize. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Belize using a type G power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Belize using a type A power adapter

A page showing how to use your hair dryer in Belize with a Type A travel charger.

  1. Check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 110 volt power supply but if it doesn't then do not proceed as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer make sure you have set it to the 110 volt setting to use in Belize - refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. This guide assumes that you are not already using a hair dryer with a Type A plug - if it does then you won't need a power adapter (but please check that your hair dryer will work with a 110 volt power outlet). If the type of power outlet used in Belize doesn't accomodate the plug shape on your hair dryer you will need to use a Type A plug adapter [8]. This plug adapter is designed to fit plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet found in Belize simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 110 volt supply.
  3. Begin the process by plugging the Type A plug adapter into the Belizean power outlet. This power outlet, sometimes known as a Type A power outlet [7], can be recognised by 2 slots adjacent to each other where the live and neutral blades slide into.
  4. After that plug in your hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Belizean power outlet. You can now turn on your blow dryer to use in Belize. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Belize using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia web page about Belize
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type B power outlet
  4. Type B plug adapter - A Type B adapter, rated at 15 A and 125 V, featuring two parallel flat blades and a longer grounding pin, in compliance with NEMA 5-15 specifications. Suitable for travel to the US plug types and Canadian plugs..
  5. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  6. 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..
  7. iec.ch - Type A power outlet
  8. 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..
  9. 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..
  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. 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..
  13. 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..
  14. 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..
  15. 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..
  16. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  17. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  18. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  19. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  20. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.