How to use a hair dryer in Tuvalu

Will my hair dryer work in Tuvalu?

Check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Tuvalu:

If your hair dryer can run on 220 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you'll only need to use an appropriate power adapter for Tuvalu listed below 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 might still need the right power adapter for Tuvalu but these lightweight accessories are designed specifically for travel. Before buying read our guide to the best travel blow driers which will work in Tuvalu, along with nine tips for buying a new travel blow dryer and a comparison table of six of the best blow dryers to buy.

Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 220 volt Tuvaluan power outlet, however this is noticeably heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but not the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Tuvalu, therefore check that your power converter includes an appropriate power adapter for Tuvalu otherwise you will also need to bring another power adapter. Be aware that your own personal hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you risk damage in your suitcase. [5] [AD]

Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 220 volts used in Tuvalu you run the potential risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or a blown fuse. Before using your hair dryer in Tuvalu please read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Tuvalu

Will my hair dryer work in Tuvalu?

It depends on if your hair dryer can operate using the 220 volt power outlets in Tuvalu:

If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can handle 220 volts and you have the correct plug adapter then you'll be able to use it in Tuvalu.
If not then then you will need to consider purchasing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer ^[2]. Read the guide on do you need a power converter to use your hair dryer for help deciding which option is more suitable. [5] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Tuvalu

What to look for in a travel blow dryer

When looking for the best hair dryer for Tuvalu choose a sturdy but lightweight dual voltage dryer which will work with a 220 volt Tuvaluan power outlet power outlet, includes a long cable, a folding handle and a safety plug. When drying thicker hair buy a higher 1600+ watt motor and included diffuser.

Nine tips for buying a new travel blow dryer

Some hotel rooms could have a wall mirror installed some distance away from the nearest outlet which makes it hard to style hair, therefore when buying a hair dryer search for the lengthiest power cord available or use either an extension cord or a hand mirror.
It could be more convenient and cheaper purchasing a new hair dryer that is supplied with both a concentrator and diffuser rather than scouring stores looking for more expensive third party attachments to fit the unique dryer barrel exactly.
Thicker or curlier hair may need a travel hair dryer which has a more powerful motor - a high wattage ceramic model which has a diffuser will dry hair faster to avoid damage.
The safest travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will reduce the risk of the motor overloading that could start a fire, you can idenfity models with the two test and reset buttons found on the plug.
The most suitable hair dryers for styling will let you to control both temperature and speed settings with high and low options; lower temperatures with slower speeds reduce damage to your hair and a faster hotter speed can quickly dry thicker hair.
You shouldn't risk buying the cheapest dryer on the market - as well as safety issues there is a greater chance that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to a flimsy construction.
Try looking for lighter travel hair dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models which have a handle which folds mean more room.
A travel hair dryer has to be dual voltage in order to function in Tuvalu.
A cool shot button on modern hair dryers can rapidly cool down the hair after drying to hold in the style but this option could be missing in smaller dryers.

Which is the best folding dual voltage travel hair dryer for Tuvalu?

Using a strong twin speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features a cool shot setting which can will rapidly cool down hair which gives it a long lasting hold.
The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has a cool shot setting, uses a tourmaline ceramic air outlet for negative ions meaning faster drying, two heat options, a longer 1.8 metre power cable and includes a concentrator attachment.

Both models can fold, include an ALCI power plug which prevents overloading and has dual voltage making both perfect for travel to Tuvalu in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for a Tuvaluan power outlet. [6] [6] [7] [AD]

Which is the best blow dryer for thick hair?

Thick hair will take much longer to dry and could be hard to do so without your hair going frizzy, the best option is an ionic hair dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are suitable to dry and manage hair smoothly. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer will be suitable because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor that is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough. [8] [9] [AD]

What is a good mini folding dual voltage travel hair dryer for Tuvalu?

The Conair MiniPRO is the best value mini ionic blow dryer available on the market, the 1200 watt ceramic dryer will be suited for quickly drying fine and thin hair whilst on the go.
The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is lightweight and small enough to transport in a handbag due to a 10.5oz body with folding handle that has features reserved for larger dryers such as a removable filter and a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect from heat damage during styling for a shinier finish.

Both mini hair dryers have dual voltage and when used with the right plug adapter for a Tuvaluan power outlet they will work in Tuvalu folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried for drying on the go. Both have a 1.5m electric power cord, have a two speed motor and include a concentrator. [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best dual voltage hair dryer with a diffuser for Tuvalu?

A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m electric power cord, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser however lacks a cool shot option.
The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a long 1.82 metre power cable for more flexibility when drying with an ALCI safety plug and removable filter to clean easily. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it includes cool shot making it perfect for drying thick hair.

Both ionic travel hair dryers include both diffuser and concentrator attachments with powerful enough motors to make them the most suitable hair dryers for thick hair. Each hair dryer is lightweight and folds up to pack into a carry-on bag, only requiring a cheap power adapter for Tuvalu to work with a Tuvaluan power outlet. [8] [9] [9] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for 2020

What is the best blow dryer to buy for Tuvalu?

	Conair MiniPRO	BaByliss PRO	Conair Compact	Berta Folding	X5 Superlite	Hot Tools 1044
Class	Mini		Compact		Compact with diffuser
Works in Tuvalu	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 April 2022.

Tuvalu power outlets and plug sockets

What voltage is used in Tuvalu?

The standard residential voltage in Tuvalu is 220 volts.

What electrical frequency is used in Tuvalu?

The frequency from a Tuvaluan power outlet is 50Hz. [12]

Which power adapter do you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Tuvalu?

Type I power outlets are used in Tuvalu. You can recognise the wall socket by the 3 vertical slots in a triangular shape for live, neutral and ground pins. A recommended plug adapter to bring for using a 220 volt hair dryer in Tuvalu is a Type I plug adapter - read the step-by-step instructions below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Tuvalu. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to use a voltage converter. [4] [13] [AD]

Buy a plug adapter for Tuvalu

Dual voltage hair dryers

How should I switch the voltage on a dual voltage hair dryer?

Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which changes between two voltages although some brands can automatically detect the voltage used in Tuvalu.
The dial or switch requires a small coin or screwdriver to change the dryer to the correct voltage between the 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
Also it is worth making a note of both switch positions because the painted numbers can occasionally fade on some models.

How do you use a dual voltage hair dryer in Tuvalu?

First check that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer and that it operates with a 220 volt power socket.
If your hair dryer is dual voltage then ensure it is set to operate within the 220-240V range. This is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to turn.
Plug the hair dryer into the correct power adapter for Tuvalu and then plug in the power adapter into the Tuvaluan power outlet.
It's normal for most travel hair dryer models operating in the 220-240v range to only work safely on their lowest setting, however this temperature should still be sufficient for drying hair. Please check the hair dryer guidelines to see if this rule is relevant for your model of hair dryer to avoid overheating.
The hair dryer can now be operated in Tuvalu.

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

One method to tell if your hair dryer will support a dual voltage power outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or the plug of the hair dryer. This location will depend on the make and model of your hair dryer and could also be written on the box. Some dual voltage hair dryers might change automatically but other hair dryers will have a button which allows you to toggle between different voltage ranges.

A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Tuvalu then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Tuvaluan power outlet.
A small voltage range with a dash such as 100-120V also indicates a single voltage hair dryer which can accomodate small voltage fluctuations. If the 220 volts used in a Tuvaluan power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Tuvalu.
A large voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Tuvalu or any other country.

Travelling to Tuvalu with a hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Tuvalu?

Depending on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer might be available in the room, either packed away in a bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer, found in the bathroom or could potentially be of a slower air hose type.

When staying in budget hotels, motels and hostels a shared hair dryer might be offered at the reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer policy you can either look on the hotel web site or telephone the hotel in Tuvalu to find out what type of hairdryer is available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but are typically rudimentary models lacking a diffuser, notorious for low heat and providing slower air speeds. For those concerned with hygiene should remove any grime from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

For travellers who don't want to take a chance that a suitable or hygienic hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own Dual voltage travel hair dryer. [2] [AD]

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

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer rather than packing your existing domestic blow dryer to Tuvalu (typically marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Tuvaluan power outlet (provided that you bring the correct power adapter for Tuvalu). A travel hair dryer will normally feature a collapsing handle and will be much lighter which will help reduce the size and weight in luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer. It is also worth concidering that bringing an expensive domestic hair dryer might place it at risk due to potential damage or loss in your suitcase by an airport baggage handler in Tuvalu. The costs of replacing an expensive quality blow dryer in Tuvalu might overshadow the cost of purchasing a much cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer ^[2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case . [14] [AD]

Is a blow dryer allowed on a plane in Tuvalu?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when carrying a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA suggests that you should verify that your airline which is flying you to Tuvalu will allow a blow dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft. 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 wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cords tightly around electronic items such as blow dryers). If you do intend to bring fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the most protection against drops and knocks during transit. [14] [15] [16] [AD]

Power converters for Tuvalu

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

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Tuvalu, but a heavy and bulkier power converter converts a 220 volt Tuvaluan power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer. [5] [AD]

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

The correct type voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 220 volt power outlet used in Tuvalu. A power converter is suitable for travellers who want to use their own hair dryer, however it could be a lot cheaper to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer ^[2] than it is to purchase a power converter. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be considerably lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for travelling. [5] [AD]