Which travel adapter do I need for using a hair dryer in Kiribati?

Kiribati power outlet

Will my blowdryer work in Kiribati?

Check your hair dryer can work in Kiribati:

If not then either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 240 volt Kiribati power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but not the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Kiribati, so please check that the voltage transformer includes an appropriate power adapter for Kiribati otherwise you will also need to purchase another power adapter. Be aware that your own personal hair dryer might not be suited for travel and you could risk potential damage in your luggage. [5] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 240 volts you run the potential risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or blowing a fuse. Before attempting to use your hair dryer in Kiribati please read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Kiribati

Will my hair dryer work in Kiribati?

That will depend on if your hair dryer can operate using the 240 volts as used in Kiribati:

Best travel hair dryers for Kiribati

What to look for when choosing a travel blow dryer for Kiribati

Bundled diffuser and concentrator attachments

What to look for when choosing a travel blow dryer for Kiribati

When looking for the best travel hair dryer for Kiribati choose a sturdy but light dual voltage model which operates with a 240 volt Kiribati power outlet power outlet, includes a folding handle, long power cable and an ALCI safety plug. When drying thicker hair buy a dryer with a stronger 1600+ watt motor and included diffuser.

9 tips for buying a new travel hair dryer

  1. Hotel rooms might have a mirror installed away from the nearest power outlet which makes it cumbersome to style hair, therefore find the lengthiest power cord possible.
  2. If you have thicker or curlier hair then you may need a travel blow dryer with a stronger motor. A high wattage ceramic model which includes a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby preventing damage.
  3. Rather than looking for expensive third party attachments which fit the barrel exactly it could be more convenient purchasing a hair dryer which is supplied with a diffuser and concentrator from the manufacturer.
  4. Safe travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will minimise the risk of overloading the motor and starting electrical fires, you can idenfity these with the 2 'test' and 'reset' switches.
  5. Suitable hair dryers should give control of both temperature and speed settings with low and high options - a lower temperature with a slower speed should prevent damage to your hair and a faster hotter speed will quickly dry thicker hair.
  6. Buying the cheapest travel hair dryer on the market could be risky, as well as safety concerns there is a greater chance that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to a poor build.
  7. Your hair dryer needs to be dual voltage in order to function with a 240 volt Kiribati power outlet.
  8. Try to look for lighter travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models with a folding handle will mean more room.
  9. A 'cool shot' button on modern hair dryers can quickly cool hair down after drying which will hold a style but this option might be lacking in smaller models.
What is the best travel hair dryer with cool shot?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

What is the best travel hair dryer with cool shot?

  • A Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and features a cool shot button which can will quickly cool down hair.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has a cool shot setting, uses a ceramic tourmaline outlet meaning safer and quicker drying, twin heat settings, a longer 1.8m electric power cable and includes a concentrator.

Both models fold, have an ALCI power plug which prevents power overloads and has dual voltage making them ideal for visiting Kiribati in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for a Kiribati power outlet.  [6] [6] [7] [AD]

What is the best hair dryer for thick or curly hair?

Thicker hair can take longer to dry and might be hard to do so without your hair turning frizzy, so the best option will be an ionic hair dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Both an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic are suitable because 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 it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [8] [9] [AD]

Which is the smallest dual voltage hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator and folding handle

Which is the smallest dual voltage hair dryer?

  • If you want to dry thin or fine hair on the go then a ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the most cost effective small ionic hairdryer available on the market.
  • The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is compact enough to transport in a handbag due to it's 10.5 ounce body and folding handle and also includes features reserved for larger dryers including a removable filter and a tourmaline outlet which can emit infrared heat to protect against heat damage during use for a shiny finish.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used in combination with the right plug adapter for a Kiribati power outlet they will work in Kiribati folding conveniently enough to be carried around all day for styling on the go. They have a 1.5m electric power cord, a 2 speed motor and include a concentrator attachment.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

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

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser

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

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m electric power cable, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser however is missing cool shot.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a longer 1.82m electric power cord for greater flexibility when drying with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter to clean. It also utilises a powerful 1875 watt motor including a cool shot button making it suitable for styling thick hair.

Each ionic travel hair dryer features both diffuser and concentrator attachments with strong motors to make them the best travel hair dryers for thick hair. Both will only require a suitable power adapter for Kiribati to fit into a Kiribati power outlet, each hair dryer is light and folds up to pack into a carry-on bag.  [8] [9] [9] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best blow dryer to buy for Kiribati?

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 Kiribati 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.

Kiribati power outlets and plug sockets

What is the voltage in Kiribati?

Power outlets in Kiribati are 240 volts.

What is the frequency used in a Kiribati power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current from a Kiribati power outlet is 50Hz. [12]

Which travel adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Kiribati?

Type I power outlet

Which travel adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Kiribati?

Type I power outlets are used in Kiribati. You can identify this power socket by the 3 slots for the live, neutral and ground. A Type I plug adapter will allow you to use a 240 volt hair dryer in Kiribati; read the step by step guide below for full details of using a hair dryer in Kiribati with a power adapter. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to see if you also have to bring a voltage converter.  [4] [13] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can you switch a travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have some type of dial or switch which toggles between two voltages however some brands are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Kiribati.
  2. This dial or switch will typically require either a screwdriver or coin to change the hair dryer to the correct voltage between the 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
  3. Also, it is worth noting down the 2 switch positions as the painted numbers can sometimes fade on certain models.

How can I use a dual voltage blow dryer in Kiribati?

  1. Check that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer and it works with a 240 volt power outlet.
  2. If the dryer is dual voltage please ensure that it is set to the 220-240 volt range. The switch is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug your hair dryer into the power adapter for Kiribati and also plug in the power adapter into the Kiribati power outlet.
  4. It's common on a majority of dual voltage hair dryer models operating within the 220-240v range to only work safely on their lowest setting - but the temperature and speed should still be adequate for drying hair. Check the hair dryer instructions to find out if this is appropriate for your model of hair dryer to prevent the risk of overheating.
  5. Your dryer can now be used in Kiribati.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer supports a dual voltage outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or handle of the hair dryer. This location will vary depending on the make or model of your hair dryer, it should also be written in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair dryers will change automatically, however other hair dryer models will have a button which allows you to change between different regions depending on which country you are in.

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

Travelling to Kiribati with a hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Kiribati have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Kiribati have hair dryers?

This depends on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and the class of the room. Hotel hair dryers are typically found in the bathroom, these could be a slower air hose variety, or could be found in a bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer.

When staying in budget motels, hotels and hostels a communal hair dryer could be available at the reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer availability you should either check on the hotel web site or call ahead to the hotel in Kiribati to find out what type of hairdryer is available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are usable but are normally rudimentary models lacking a diffuser, notorious for providing slow air speeds and low heat. For those concerned with hygiene should remove burnt hair cuticles from previous guests on a communal hair dryer as room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

For travellers who are uncertain that a suitable and germ-free hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer.  [2] [AD]

Can I pack a hair dryer in my carry on hand luggage?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I pack a hair dryer in my carry on hand luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA also recommends that you should check that your airline which is flying you to Kiribati will allow blow dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing your blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible by airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of power cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cords tightly around electronic items). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against knocks and bumps during transit.   [14] [15] [16] [AD]

Is it safe to bring a domestic blow dryer to Kiribati?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer rather than packing your existing domestic hair dryer to Kiribati as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 240 volt power outlets used with a Kiribati power outlet (provided that you bring the correct power adapter for Kiribati). Travel hair dryers typically feature a collapsing handle and are much lighter, this helps in reducing the size and weight in luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer. Note that packing your expensive domestic hair dryer could place it at risk because of potential damage or loss in transit by an airport baggage handler in Kiribati. The cost and inconvenience involved in replacing or repairing an expensive specialised hair dryer in Kiribati might outweigh the cost of buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before travelling to bring with you .  [15] [AD]

Power converters for Kiribati

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

Voltage converter

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

A lightweight, small and cheap power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Kiribati, but a heavier and more expensive power converter transforms the voltage of 240 volts from a Kiribati power outlet to work with a non-240 volt hair dryer. [5] [AD]

Can you use a hair dryer with a power converter in Kiribati?

The correct model of power converter (or voltage transformer) allows your hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 240 volt power outlet used in Kiribati. A power converter is more suitable for travellers wishing to use their own domestic hair dryer, but it can be more costly to buy a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. A power converter is also substantially heavier and bulkier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable when packing compared to a travel hair dryer. [5] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Kiribati using a type I power adapter

How to use your hair dryer in Kiribati by using a 3 prong Type I travel adapter.

  1. Make sure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 240 volt power outlet; but if it doesn't then don't proceed because 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 make sure you have set it to accept 240 volts for use in Kiribati, please consult the manufacturers instructions for more details on how to do this.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet used in Kiribati you'll need to use a Type I plug adapter [4]. This power adapter will help adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet used in Kiribati simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 240 volt outlet.
  3. First plug the Type I plug adapter into the wall outlet. The plug outlet (technically known as a Type I power outlet [3]) can be identified by the three slots in an upside-down triangular pattern with the top two slots sloping upward for the live, neutral and earth.
  4. Then plug in the hair dryer into the Type I plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Kiribati power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be used in Kiribati. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Kiribati using a type I power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Kiribati country entry on Wikipedia.org
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type I power outlet
  4. Type I plug adapter - A Type I electrical adapter, compliant with AS/NZS 3112, fits in a standard Australia electrical outlet. This adapter features two flat pins in an inverted V-shape with an earthing pin and is also commonly used in New Zealand, China, and Argentina..
  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. 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..
  7. 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..
  8. 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..
  9. 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..
  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. 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.