Using a hair dryer in French Polynesia
Can I use my hair dryer in French Polynesia?
First check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in French Polynesia:
- If your hair dryer can run using 110 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you will only need to bring an appropriate power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit in the outlet.
If not then:
- Use a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] - you could need an appropriate power adapter for French Polynesia however these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for travelling. See our comprehensive recommendations for the best dual voltage hair driers which are guaranteed to work in French Polynesia, along with nine things to look for when purchasing a travel blow dryer and a comparison table of six of the best hair dryers.
- Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 110 volt French Polynesian power outlet, however this is substantially heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in French Polynesia, so check that your voltage transformer comes with an appropriate power adapter for French Polynesia otherwise you will need to purchase another power adapter. Please be aware your existing hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you could risk potential damage in transit. [9] [AD]
Using a hair dryer in French Polynesia
Will my hair dryer work in French Polynesia?
That will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to handle the 110 volt power outlets used in French Polynesia. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can handle 110 volts and you have the correct power adapter then you should be able to use the hair dryer in French Polynesia. If not then you will need to consider bringing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Read the guide on do you need a power converter to use a domestic hair dryer for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [9] [AD]
Best travel hair dryers for French Polynesia
What to look for when choosing a hair dryer for French Polynesia
When looking for the best hair dryer for French Polynesia choose a robust but lightweight dual-voltage model that operates with a 110 volt French Polynesian power outlet power outlet with a folding handle, long cable and ALCI safety plug. For drying thicker hair look for a model which includes a diffuser that has a stronger 1600+ watt dryer.
What should I look for when purchasing a hair dryer?
- Don't risk buying the cheapest dryer on the market, as well as issues with safety there is a greater chance that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to cheaper components.
- To function in French Polynesia your hair dryer needs to support dual voltage.
- The safest travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which minimises the risk of the motor overloading and starting electrical fires; these are identified with 'reset' and 'test' switches on the plug.
- Modern hair dryers could include a 'cool shot' option for quickly cooling hair down after drying to hold in a style but this feature lacks in cheaper models.
- If you have curlier or thicker hair then you could need a travel blow dryer which has a more powerful motor, a high wattage ceramic model that includes a diffuser will dry hair faster to prevent damage.
- Some hotel rooms might have a mirror positioned away from a convenient power outlet making it awkward to style hair, so look for a model with the lengthiest power cord available or bring either a power extension cord or portable mirror.
- Try looking for lightweight travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models which have a handle which folds will mean more room for packing other items.
- Instead of looking for more expensive 3rd party attachments which fit the unique barrel size securely it could be more convenient and cheaper to buy a dryer which includes both a diffuser and concentrator.
- Suitable hair dryers for styling give control of the temperature and speed settings with different options; a slower speed with a lower temperature will prevent damage to hair whilst a faster hotter speed can dry thicker hair faster.
What is the best travel ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment for French Polynesia?
- The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m power cord, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser however doesn't have a cool shot option.
- The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a lengthy 1.82 metre electric power cord for more 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 feature making it perfect for styling thicker hair.
Both ionic hair dryers feature a concentrator and diffuser with strong motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. Both will require a suitable plug adapter for French Polynesia to plug into a French Polynesian power outlet, they are lightweight and will fold up to pack into carry-on luggage. [10] [10] [11] [AD]
What is the best small ionic dual voltage hair dryer?
- A Conair MiniPRO is the most cost effective small ionic blow dryer available on the market, this 1200 watt ceramic dryer is suitable for quickly drying fine or thin hair whilst on the go.
- A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is compact enough to carry in a handbag due to a 10.5oz body with folding handle and also includes options found on larger dryers such as a removable filter and a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage during use which results in a glossy finish.
Both mini hair dryers are dual voltage when used in combination with a suitable power adapter for a French Polynesian power outlet they should work in French Polynesia folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried for drying on the go. Both have a 1.5m power cable, have a twin speed motor and include a concentrator attachment. [12] [12] [13] [AD]
What is the best compact dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot?
- A Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful twin 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 has cool shot, uses a tourmaline ceramic outlet for negative ions meaning faster styling, twin heat options, a longer 1.8 metre power cable and comes with a concentrator attachment.
Each model folds, includes an ALCI plug which prevents overloading and support dual voltage making both ideal for visiting French Polynesia in carry on luggage if used with a power adapter for a French Polynesian power outlet. [14] [14] [15] [AD]
What is the best blow dryer for thick curly hair?
Thicker hair will take longer to dry and will be hard to do so without the hair going frizzy. The best option for this type of hair will be 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 that is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough. [10] [11] [AD]
Best hair dryers for travel
What is the best hair dryer for French Polynesia?
Conair MiniPRO |
BaByliss PRO |
Conair Compact |
Berta Folding |
X5 Superlite |
Hot Tools 1044 |
|
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Class | Mini | Compact | Compact with diffuser | |||
Works in French Polynesia | 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.
French Polynesia power outlets and plug sockets
What is the mains voltage in French Polynesia?
Power outlets in French Polynesia are 110 volts.
What electrical frequency is used in a French Polynesian power outlet?
The frequency of the alternating current in a French Polynesian power outlet is 60 Hz. [16]
Which power adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in French Polynesia?
There are three types of power outlets used in French Polynesia, these are type E, A and B with the primary power outlets being type E:
- Plug Type A - This unearthed plug outlet (known as the type A power outlet) is recognised by 2 adjacent slots next to each other where the plug socket blades go.
- Plug Type B - You can identify the plug outlet by the 2 thin slots for live and neutral blades with a semicircle hole below for the slightly long grounded pin.
- Plug Type E - The circular wall socket (technically called a CEE 7/7 socket or type E power outlet) can be recognised by two 4.8mm holes 19mm adjacent to each other for live and neutral and a single metal grounding pin protruding the top forming a triangular configuration.
A suitable travel adapter to bring to use a 110 volt hair dryer in French Polynesia is a Type E plug adapter - read the step-by-step guide below for full details of using a hair dryer in French Polynesia. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to bring a power converter. [6] [17] [AD]
Dual voltage hair dryers
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?
An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer can accept dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or the handle of your hair dryer. This location will depend on the make or model of your hair dryer, it should also state in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair dryers might change automatically but other hair dryer models will have 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 110 volts used in French Polynesia then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a French Polynesian 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 French Polynesian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in French Polynesia.
- A larger voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in French Polynesia or any other country.
How do you use your dual voltage blow dryer in French Polynesia?
- First ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or that it will work with a 110 volt power outlet.
- If the hair dryer supports dual voltage then ensure it is switched to operate within the 100-127 volt range. The switch is normally found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to turn.
- Plug the hair dryer into the power adapter for French Polynesia, also plug in the power adapter into the French Polynesian power outlet.
- Your hair dryer can now be operated in French Polynesia.
- Expect travel hair dryer models which came from a country that operates with 220-240V to blow slower than expected when plugged into a power outlet that supplies 100-127V.
How should you switch a dual voltage travel hair dryer?
- Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which toggles between 2 types of voltages however some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from a French Polynesian power outlet.
- The dial or switch needs either a coin or screwdriver to set the dryer to the correct voltage between a 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
- Also, it is worth making a note of the two switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to fading on certain models.
Travelling to French Polynesia with a hair dryer
Can you pack a blow dryer in your carry on to French Polynesia?
According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also suggests that you should verify that the airline which is flying you to French Polynesia 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 avoiding a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cables tightly around electronic items such as blow dryers). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against drops and knocks during transit. [18] [19] [20] [AD]
Is it safe to bring a domestic hair dryer to French Polynesia?
It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to bringing an existing domestic hair dryer to French Polynesia as it ensures that it will work with the 110 volt power outlets used with a French Polynesian power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for French Polynesia). Certain types of travel hair dryer will normally feature a collapsing handle and will be lighter, this helps in reducing the size and weight when packed in luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer. Be aware that packing your expensive domestic blow dryer might place it at risk because of potential damage or loss in transit by airport baggage handlers. The cost and inconvenience of repairing or replacing an expensive quality hair dryer in French Polynesia could overshadow the costs of buying a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off . [19] [AD]
Do hotel rooms in French Polynesia have hair dryers?
This will all depend on the hotel or bed and breakfast and the class of the room. Hotel room hair dryers are typically found in the bathroom, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or could be located in the bedroom cupboard, drawer or wardrobe. If staying in cheaper motels, hotels and hostels a shared hair dryer could be offered at the reception but could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer availability then either call ahead to the hotel in French Polynesia or check on the booking web site to find out what is available to guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are adequate but are normally basic models lacking a diffuser and notorious for low heat and providing slow air speeds. For those worried about hygiene might want to check for grime from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.
Remember, if you are in doubt either call ahead to your hotel in French Polynesia or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. [2] [AD]
Power converters for French Polynesia
Do you need a converter for French Polynesia to use a hair dryer?
A voltage transformer (or power converter) allows your hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 110 volt power outlet used in French Polynesia. Travellers who wish to use 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 worth noting, a travel hair dryer can be substantially lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suitable for packing. [9] [AD]
What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter for French Polynesia?
A heavy and bulky power converter will convert the voltage of 110 volts from a French Polynesian power outlet to work with a non-110 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 fit into a power outlet found in French Polynesia. [9] [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in French Polynesia using a type B power adapter
A guide showing how to use a hair dryer in French Polynesia with a Type B travel charger.
- Please check that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 110 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't continue as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 110 volt setting; please refer to the user guide to find out how to do this.
- You will need to buy a Type B plug adapter [4] if the type of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the power outlet which is used in French Polynesia. The Type B plug adapter will help convert different plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet used in French Polynesia 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.
- Begin the process by plugging the Type B plug adapter in the power outlet. The wall outlet (called the Type B power outlet [3]) is identified by 2 thin slots next to each other where the live and neutral blades slide into with a hole below for the earth pin.
- Plug in your hair dryer into the Type B plug adapter.
- Turn on the French Polynesian power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in French Polynesia using a type E power adapter
A page showing how to power your hair dryer in French Polynesia with a Type E travel adapter.
- Please check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 110 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. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer make sure you have set it to the 110 volt setting to use in French Polynesia, please refer to the manufacturers instructions to find out where this switch is.
- You will need to use a Type E plug adapter [6] if the type of power outlet which is used in French Polynesia won't accomodate the plug shape on your hair dryer. The Type E plug adapter helps fit different plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet used in French Polynesia 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 110 volt supply.
- Start the process by plugging the Type E plug adapter into the wall outlet. You can recognise the wall outlet by two large adjacent holes where the live and neutral pins go and a single long metal grounding pin protruding the top in a triangular configuration.
- Then plug in your hair dryer into the Type E plug adapter.
- Turn on the French Polynesian power outlet. You can now turn on your blow dryer to use in French Polynesia. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in French Polynesia using a type A power adapter
How to power your hair dryer in French Polynesia with a Type A power adapter.
- Please check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 110 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 blow dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 110 volt setting; please refer to the owners manual to find out how to do this.
- Please check that you don't already own a hair dryer with a Type A plug - if it does then you won't need a power adapter (but please check that your hair dryer can work with a 110 volt power supply). So, if the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet used in French Polynesia you'll need to bring a Type A plug adapter [8]. This Type A plug adapter will adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet found in French Polynesia by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 110 volt supply.
- Start by plugging the Type A plug adapter into the French Polynesian power outlet. You can identify the power supply by the two thin slots for live and neutral blades.
- Then plug in your hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
- Turn on the French Polynesian power outlet.
- You can now turn on the hair dryer in French Polynesia. [AD]
See also
External links
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- Wikipedia - Wikipedia web page about French Polynesia
- Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
- iec.ch - Type B power outlet
- 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..
- iec.ch - Type E power outlet
- Type E plug adapter - A CEE 7/5 socket and CEE 7/6 plug compliant Type E adapter designed with a focus on safety, featuring two round pins and an earthing hole. Ideal for use in the France, Belgium, Poland and several African nations..
- iec.ch - Type A power outlet
- Type A plug adapter - A two-blade, ungrounded electrical plug adapter for US plug types, Canadian power outlets, Thailand sockets, Mexico plug types, and select Asian power outlets..
- Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
- iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
- tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
- Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
- Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
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Connecting a French Polynesian power outlet to: |
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