How do I use a hair dryer in Samoa?

Samoan power outlet

Can I use my blowdryer in Samoa?

Check your hair dryer can work in Samoa:

  • If your hair dryer can run on 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you will only need to use the correct power adapter listed below if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Samoan power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but won't change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Samoa, therefore check that the voltage transformer includes a power adapter for Samoa otherwise you will need to bring another power adapter. Also worth noting that your personal hair dryer might not be suited for travel and you risk damage in your luggage. [5] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts you run a risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or blowing a fuse. Prior to using your hair dryer in Samoa read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Samoa

Will my hair dryer work in Samoa?

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

Best travel hair dryers for Samoa

Choosing the best blow dryer for Samoa

Multiple speed options on a travel hair dryer

Choosing the best blow dryer for Samoa

When looking for the best hair dryer choose a sturdy but light dual-voltage dryer that operates with a 230 volt Samoan power outlet power outlet, includes ALCI safety plug, long cord and folding handle. For drying thicker hair buy a dryer with a higher 1600+ watt dryer and included diffuser.

What to look for when buying a blow dryer?

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

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

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

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

Each model is folding, includes an ALCI safety plug which prevents power overloads and support dual voltage making both perfect for visiting Samoa in carry on luggage when used along with a power adapter for a Samoan power outlet.  [6] [6] [7] [AD]

Which is a good blow dryer for thick hair?

Thicker hair can take much longer to dry and will be difficult to do so without your hair turning frizzy. The best option for thicker hair will be an ionic hair dryer, if the hair is curly use a diffuser as both are suitable to dry and manage hair smoothly without frizz. Both the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are recommended because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers, avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [8] [9] [AD]

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

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium

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

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the best value small ionic hair dryer available to buy, this 1200 watt ceramic dryer will be most suited for quickly drying thin or fine hair whilst on the go.
  • The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is both small and lightweight enough to carry in a purse due to it's 10.5 ounce body with folding handle that also includes features found on larger hair dryers such as a removable filter and a tourmaline outlet which can emit infrared heat to protect against heat damage during styling resulting in a glossy finish.

Both of these mini hair dryers support dual voltage and when used in combination with the right plug adapter for a Samoan power outlet they should work in Samoa and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried around all day for drying on the go. They are two speed, have a 1.5m electric power cable and include a concentrator attachment.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

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

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer

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

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65m electric power cable, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however doesn't have a cool shot option.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a longer 1.82m electric power cable for more freedom when drying with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter for easy cleaning. With a strong 1875 watt motor it includes a cool shot button making it perfect for drying thicker hair.

Both ionic travel hair dryers include a diffuser and concentrator attachment with powerful enough motors to make them the most suitable travel blow dryers for thick hair. They are both lightweight and will fold up to fit into carry-on baggage, only requiring a suitable cheap plug adapter for Samoa to fit into a Samoan power outlet.  [8] [9] [9] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

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

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 Samoa 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.

Samoa power outlets and plug sockets

What voltage is used in Samoa?

Power outlets in Samoa are 230 volts.

What electrical frequency is used with a Samoan power outlet?

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

Which travel adapter will you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Samoa?

The type of power outlet used in Samoa is type I. The plug socket, technically known as a type I power outlet, can be recognised by the three thin slots forming a triangular pattern with a single vertical pin at the bottom and the top pair of slots sloping upwards for the live, neutral and earth blades. A Type I plug adapter allows you to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Samoa, read the step-by-step instructions below for full details of using a hair dryer in Samoa with a travel adapter. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to use a power converter.  [4] [13] [AD]

Which travel adapter will you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Samoa?

Dual voltage hair dryers

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

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

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

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

Single voltage hair dryer

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

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer can handle a dual voltage outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, handle or base. The location will vary depending on the make or model of your hair dryer and could also state in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models can change automatically, however other hair dryer models will have a switch which allows you to toggle between different regions.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Samoa then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Samoan 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 230 volts used in a Samoan power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Samoa.
  • A larger range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Samoa or any other country.

Travelling to Samoa with a hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Samoa?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Samoa?

It will all depend on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and the class of the accommodation. Hotel room hair dryers are typically found attached to a bathroom wall unit, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or could be found in the bedroom drawer, cupboard or wardrobe.

In cheaper hotels, motels and hostels a shared hair dryer could be available at the reception but that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer policy then either check on the hotel web site or call ahead to your hotel in Samoa to find out if a suitable hairdryer available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are usable but are typically basic models with no diffuser, notorious for providing slower air speeds and low heat. For those concerned with hygiene might want to check for the burnt hair cuticles from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

Travellers who aren't sure that a suitable and clean hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer or telephone their hotel in Samoa to check first.  [2] [AD]

Is a hair dryer allowed onboard a flight in Samoa?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Is a hair dryer allowed onboard a flight in Samoa?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA suggests that you should check that your airline which is taking you to Samoa will allow hair dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing the hair dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible by airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cords tightly around electronic items such as hair dryers). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the most protection against bumps and knocks during your journey.   [14] [15] [16] [AD]

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

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

It is also worth concidering that packing your expensive domestic hair dryer might put it at risk due to potential damage or loss in transit by airline baggage handlers in Samoa. The cost and inconvenience involved in repairing an expensive quality domestic hair dryer in Samoa might outweigh the costs of buying a much cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case beforehand .  [15] [AD]

Power converters for Samoa

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

Voltage converter

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

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

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

The correct type voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 230 volt power outlet used in Samoa. Travellers who want to use their own domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, however it can be a lot less expensive to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to buy a power converter. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be noticeably lighter and smaller than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for packing. [5] [AD]

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

How to use your hair dryer in Samoa with a Type I power charger.

  1. Please make sure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply - but if it doesn't then do not continue as you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting for use in Samoa; refer to the instructions for more details on where this switch is located.
  2. You will need to bring a Type I plug adapter [4] if the type of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the plug outlet used in Samoa. This power adapter will convert plugs on appliances from other countries for use with an electrical outlet in Samoa by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Begin by inserting the Type I plug adapter in the wall outlet. You can identify this wall supply by 3 slots for the live, neutral and ground.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type I plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Samoan power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be used in Samoa. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Samoa using a type I power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Samoa country Wikipedia page
  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.