How do I use my hair dryer in American Samoa?

Will my hair dryer work in American Samoa?

First check that your hair dryer can work in American Samoa:

• If your hair dryer can run on 120 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can check) then you will only need to use an appropriate power adapter for American Samoa listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit.

If not then you can either:

• Use a dual voltage travel hair dryer ^[2] - you could need to use a suitable power adapter for American Samoa but these lightweight accessories are designed specifically for travel. Before purchasing read the comprehensive recommendations for the best hair driers guaranteed to work in an American Samoan power outlet, along with the top nine features to look for when purchasing a blow dryer and a comparison table of six of the best blow dryers to buy in 2023.

Buy a travel hair dryer for American Samoa

• Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with an 120 volt American Samoan power outlet, however this is substantially heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter changes the voltage but won't change the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of power outlet used in American Samoa, therefore please check that your voltage transformer includes the right power adapter for American Samoa otherwise you will also need to purchase another power adapter. Please note that your existing hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you risk damage in transit. [11] [AD]

Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 120 volts you run the risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or blowing a fuse. Before attempting to use your hair dryer in American Samoa read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Best travel hair dryers for American Samoa

How to choose the best travel hair dryer for American Samoa

When looking for the best travel hair dryer choose a robust but lightweight dual voltage dryer that will work with an 120 volt American Samoan power outlet power outlet with a safety plug, long power cable and folding handle. When drying thick hair buy a model which includes a bundled diffuser that uses a faster 1600+ watt dryer.

Things to look for when purchasing a blow dryer

1. Don't just buy the cheapest hair dryer on the market - as well as issues with safety there is a greater risk that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to a poor build.
2. The safest travel hair dryers will include an ALCI safety plug which reduces the danger of overloading that could start fires; these are identified with the two test and reset buttons found on the plug.
3. Your hair dryer needs to be dual voltage in order to function in American Samoa.
4. If you have curlier or thicker hair then you could require a hair dryer with a more powerful motor, a high wattage ceramic dryer which includes a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby preventing damage.
5. A cool shot option on modern travel dryers will rapidly cool down hair after drying which will hold in the style but this option lacks in smaller models.
6. Some hotel rooms in American Samoa could have a mirror installed away from the nearest outlet making it difficult to operate the hair dryer, so search for a model with the lengthiest power cord possible or use either an extension cable or a pocket mirror.
7. Instead of looking for expensive 3rd party attachments which fit the unique barrel perfectly it might be more convenient and cheaper to purchase a new hair dryer that includes both a concentrator and diffuser as these are designed to fit perfectly.
8. Look for a lightweight travel hair dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers with a handle which folds mean more room.
9. The best hair dryers should give control of both speed and temperature settings with 2 options; slower speeds with lower temperatures reduce damage to hair whilst hotter faster speeds will quickly dry thicker hair.

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with diffuser?

• 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 doesn't have cool shot.
• A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a lengthy 1.82 metre power cable for more flexibility when styling with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter to clean. With a strong 1875 watt motor it includes cool shot making it suitable for drying thicker hair.

Each ionic travel hair dryer includes both diffuser and concentrator attachments with strong enough motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. They will require a cheap power adapter for American Samoa to plug into an American Samoan power outlet, each hair dryer is lightweight and folds up to pack into a carry-on bag.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is a good mini ionic travel hair dryer with dual voltage?

• For drying fine or thin hair on the go the 1200 watt ceramic Conair MiniPRO is the most cost effective mini ionic blow dryer available to buy.
• A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is small enough to transport in a handbag due to it's 10.5oz body and folding handle that also includes options reserved for larger hair dryers such as a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage during styling which results in a shinier finish.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used in combination with a suitable power adapter for an American Samoan power outlet they should work in American Samoa and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried for drying on the go. They are 2 speed, have a 1.5m electric power cord and include a concentrator.  [14] [14] [15] [AD]

Which is the best travel hair dryer with cool shot?

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

Both models fold, have an ALCI safety plug which prevents overloading and has dual voltage making both perfect for travel to American Samoa in carry on luggage if used with a power adapter for an American Samoan power outlet.  [16] [16] [17] [AD]

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

Thicker hair will take longer to dry and could be difficult to do so without hair going frizzy, the best option for thicker hair is an ionic blow dryer, if the hair is curly use a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Both the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are suitable because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best blow dryer for American Samoa?

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

American Samoa power outlets and plug sockets

What mains voltage is used in American Samoa?

Power outlets in American Samoa are 120 volts.

What is the electrical frequency used in an American Samoan power outlet?

The frequency found in an American Samoan power outlet is 60 Hz. [18]

Which plug adapter do you need to bring when using a hair dryer in American Samoa?

There are four different types of power outlets used in American Samoa, these are type I, A, B and F with the primary power outlets being type I:

• Plug Type A - This plug socket, also called a type A power outlet, can be identified by the 2 slots adjacent to each other where the two pins go.
• Plug Type B - The wall outlet, technically known as a type B power outlet, is recognised by two thin slots parallel to each other with a semicircular shaped hole below for the earthed pin.
• Plug Type F - You can recognise this wall socket by the two round adjacent holes, plus a pair of metal grounding clips above and below.
• Plug Type I - This wall socket, technically called a type I power outlet, can be recognised by three slots for the live, neutral and earth blades.

A Type I power adapter will allow you to use a 120 volt hair dryer in American Samoa, read the simple guide below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in American Samoa with a power adapter. Please note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to see if you need to use a power converter.  [8] [19] [AD]

Buy a plug adapter for American Samoa

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can I tell if my hair dryer is 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 handle, base or the plug. The location might depend on the make or model of your hair dryer and should also be written in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair dryers can change automatically, however other hair dryer models will feature a button or switch which allows you to operate between different voltage ranges.

• A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 120 volts used in American Samoa then you should be able to use your hair dryer with an American 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 120 volts used in an American Samoan power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in American Samoa.
• A large range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in American Samoa or any other country.

How do you use a dual voltage hair dryer in American Samoa?

1. Check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and it will operate with a 120 volt power outlet.
2. If your dryer is dual voltage please ensure it is set to work in the 100-127v range. The switch is normally found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to turn.
3. Plug the hair dryer into the correct power adapter for American Samoa and also plug in the power adapter into the American Samoan power outlet.
4. The hair dryer is now ready to operate with an American Samoan power outlet.
5. You can expect travel hair dryers which came from a country that uses 220-240V to work slower when used with a power outlet that supplies 100-127 volts.

2017-10-13

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

1. Most dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which changes between two voltages however some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from an American Samoan power outlet.
2. This switch or dial needs a small coin or screwdriver to change the dryer to the correct voltage between the 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
3. Also it is worth making a note of both switch positions as the painted numbers are prone to fading on certain models.

Travelling to American Samoa with a hair dryer

Can you carry on a hair dryer in your hand luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA recommends that you should verify that your airline which is flying you to American Samoa will allow blow dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing your hair dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible when going through airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cables tightly around electronic items). If you do 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 offers the most protection against knocks and drops during your journey.   [20] [21] [22] [AD]

Should you bring a travel hair dryer or domestic hair dryer to American Samoa?

Packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to bringing an existing hair dryer to American Samoa as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 120 volt power outlets used with an American Samoan power outlet (provided that you use the correct power adapter for American Samoa). Some models of travel hair dryer will normally feature a folding handle and are lighter, this helps reduce the size and weight in luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer. Please be aware that packing your expensive domestic blow dryer could put it at risk due to potential loss or damage in transit by an airline baggage handler. The cost and inconvenience involved in repairing or replacing an expensive specialised domestic hair dryer in American Samoa might overshadow the cost of purchasing a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer ^[2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [21] [AD]

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in American Samoa?

This depends on the hotel or bed and breakfast and the class of the room. Hotel hair dryers are normally found on a bathroom wall, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or might be located in the bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard. If staying in cheaper hotels, hostels and motels a communal hair dryer might be offered at the reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer availability you should either call ahead to your hotel in American Samoa or look on the booking web site to find out what is available for guests. Hair dryers in hotels are usable but are normally rudimentary models lacking a diffuser, notorious for providing slow air speeds and low heat. Those worried about hygiene should check for any grime from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

Remember, if in doubt either telephone ahead to the hotel in American Samoa or use a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer ^[2].  [2] [AD]

Power converters for American Samoa

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

A voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 120 volt power outlet used in American Samoa. Travellers wishing to use their existing hair dryer can use a power converter, however it can be more expensive 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 smaller and lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suitable when packing. [11] [AD]

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

A lightweight, cheap and small power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet found in American Samoa, whereas a heavy and bulkier power converter will convert a 120 volt American Samoan power outlet to work with a non-120 volt hair dryer. [11] [AD]

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

How to use a hair dryer in American Samoa with a Type B power adapter.

1. Make sure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer ^[2] or can work with a 120 volt power outlet but if not then do not continue as you may damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Travel blow dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure the switch is set to the 120 volt setting - refer to the owners manual for more details on how to do this.
2. You will need to use a Type B plug adapter ^[4] if the shape of the power outlet used in American Samoa doesn't accomodate the plug of your hair dryer. The plug adapter will fit different plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet used in American Samoa by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 120 volt supply.
3. Plug in the Type B plug adapter in the American Samoan power outlet. You can recognise this power outlet by the 2 thin slots with a single hole below for the slightly longer ground pin.
4. Next plug in your hair dryer into the Type B plug adapter.
5. Switch on the American Samoan power outlet. You can now switch on the blow dryer for use in American Samoa. [AD]

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

A guide on how to power your hair dryer in American Samoa with a 2 prong Type F travel adapter.

1. Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer ^[2] or works with a 120 volt power outlet; but if not then don't continue as you might damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages make sure you have set it to the 120 volt setting - please refer to the owners manual for more information on how to do this.
2. You'll need to use a Type F plug adapter ^[6] if the type of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of power outlet used in American Samoa. The Type F plug adapter will convert different plugs from other countries for use with a power outlet used in American Samoa simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 120 volt supply.
3. Firstly you'll need to insert the Type F plug adapter in the American Samoan power outlet. The round plug outlet can be identified by the two adjacent holes next to each other where the plug outlet pins go along with a pair of two grounding clips above and below.
4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
5. Turn on the American Samoan power outlet.
6. You can now switch on the blow dryer for use in American Samoa. [AD]

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

A guide on how to power your hair dryer in American Samoa with a 3 prong Type I travel charger.

1. Make sure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer ^[2] or is compatible with a 120 volt power supply but if it doesn't then do not proceed because you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Some dual voltage travel blow dryers will sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure the switch is set to accept 120 volts to use in American Samoa; please consult the manufacturers instructions to find out where the switch is located.
2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet which is used in American Samoa you will need to buy a Type I plug adapter ^[8]. This Type I plug adapter is designed to fit plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet in American Samoa simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 120 volt outlet.
3. Start by taking the Type I plug adapter and inserting it into the wall outlet. The plug outlet, sometimes called the Type I power outlet ^[7], can be recognised by the three thin slots for the live, neutral and ground blades.
4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type I plug adapter.
5. Turn on the American Samoan power outlet.
6. You can now switch on the blow dryer to use in American Samoa. [AD]

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

How to power a hair dryer in American Samoa with a Type A travel adapter.

1. Ensure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer ^[2] or can work with a 120 volt power outlet but if not then don't continue as you may damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Travel hair dryers usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure you have set it to the 120 volt setting - refer to the owners manual for more information on how to do this.
2. Check 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 still check that your hair dryer can work with a 120 volt power supply). So, if the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet which is used in American Samoa you will need to bring a Type A plug adapter ^[10]. The power adapter is designed to adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for a power outlet in American Samoa by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 120 volt supply.
3. Start the process by taking the Type A plug adapter and inserting it into the power outlet. You can identify this plug outlet by two thin slots next to each other.
4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
5. Turn on the American Samoan power outlet.
6. Your hair dryer is now ready for use in American Samoa. [AD]

See also

• What can I connect to an American Samoan power outlet?
• What can I connect to a hair dryer?

External links

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1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia.org entry about American Samoa
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 F power outlet
6. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
7. iec.ch - Type I power outlet
8. 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..
9. iec.ch - Type A power outlet
10. 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..
11. 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..
12. 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..
13. 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..
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. 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..
17. 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..
18. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country - October 2017
19. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location - October 2017
20. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers - October 2017
21. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
22. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.