How to use your hair dryer in Barbuda

Barbudan power outlet

Can I use my hairdryer in Barbuda?

Check that your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Barbuda:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you'll only need to bring a suitable power adapter listed below if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit in the outlet.

If not then you can either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Barbudan power outlet, however this is significantly heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but won't change the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of power outlet used in Barbuda, therefore check that your power converter comes with a power adapter for Barbuda otherwise you will need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Note - your own domestic hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you risk damage in transit. [7] [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 a blown fuse. Prior to using your hair dryer in Barbuda please check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Barbuda

Will my hair dryer work in Barbuda?

This will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to handle the 230 volt power outlets in Barbuda. 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 plug adapter then you can use your hair dryer in Barbuda. If not then you will need to consider using either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter. Read the guide on can you use a power converter to use your hair dryer in Barbuda for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Barbuda

How to choose the best travel hair dryer

A dual voltage switch on a travel hair dryer

How to choose the best travel hair dryer

When choosing the best hair dryer look for a robust but light dual-voltage model which works with a 230 volt Barbudan power outlet power outlet, includes a long cable, a folding handle and an ALCI safety plug. When drying thick hair buy a dryer with a stronger 1600+ watt motor and included diffuser.

9 tips for buying a new travel blow dryer

  1. A modern travel dryer might include a 'cool shot' button for quickly cooling hair down after drying to hold in the style but this option is missing in smaller or cheaper models.
  2. To operate with a 230 volt Barbudan power outlet your travel hair dryer needs to be dual voltage.
  3. Look for a lightweight travel hair dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models which have folding handles will mean more space.
  4. Don't risk buying the cheapest travel dryer, as well as safety issues there is a greater chance that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to a poor build.
  5. The best hair dryers allow you to change both temperature and speed with high and low options - lower temperatures with slower speeds reduce damage to your hair whilst faster hotter speeds will quickly dry thicker hair.
  6. Safe travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will minimise the danger of the motor overloading leading to a fire, these are identified with the two 'test' and 'reset' buttons.
  7. If you have thicker or curlier hair then you may require a travel blow dryer which has a stronger motor, a higher wattage ceramic model that has a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby avoiding damage.
  8. It could be cheaper and more convenient to purchase a dryer which is supplied with both a concentrator and diffuser instead of scouring shops to look for more expensive 3rd party attachments.
  9. Depending on the hotel room in Barbuda you might find they have a fixed mirror positioned away from a convenient outlet which makes it hard to operate the blow dryer, so when buying a travel hair dryer shop for a unit with the longest power cord available or bring either a pocket mirror or an extension cable.
What is a good folding dual voltage travel ionic hair dryer with diffuser for Barbuda?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser

What is a good folding dual voltage travel ionic hair dryer with diffuser for Barbuda?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65 metre power cord, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser however lacks cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a lengthy 1.82 metre power cable for more freedom when styling with an ALCI power plug and removable filter for easy cleaning. It uses a strong 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it ideal for drying thicker hair.

Both ionic hair dryers feature a diffuser and concentrator with powerful motors to make them the best travel blow dryers suitable for thick hair. Both require a suitable cheap power adapter for Barbuda to plug into a Barbudan power outlet, each hair dryer is lightweight and folds up to pack in carry-on baggage.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good mini travel hair dryer?

The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle

Which is a good mini travel hair dryer?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the cheapest mini ionic blow dryer available to buy, this ceramic 1200 watt dryer is best suited for quickly drying fine or thin hair on the go.
  • For a folding hairdryer which is small enough to carry in a purse then a 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat for a glossier finish this dryer manages to incorporate features which are typically reserved for larger blow dryers.

Both mini hair dryers are dual voltage and when used along with a suitable power adapter for a Barbudan power outlet they should work in Barbuda and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried for styling on the go. They have a 1.5 metre power cable, have a two speed motor and include a concentrator.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Which is the best hair dryer for thick curly hair?

Thicker hair can take much longer to dry and could be hard to dry without your hair turning frizzy, the best option is 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 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 bundled 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 a good dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with bundled concentrator

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

  • The Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and features a cool shot setting which can be used to quickly cool hair down to give a longer lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, uses a ceramic tourmaline air outlet meaning faster and safer styling, twin heat settings, a longer 1.8m electric power cable and includes a concentrator.

Both models can fold, have an ALCI power plug which prevents power overloads and support dual voltage making them ideal for visiting Barbuda in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for a Barbudan power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best travel blow dryer for Barbuda?

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 Barbuda 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.

Barbuda power outlets and plug sockets

What is the electrical frequency used in Barbuda?

The frequency from a Barbudan power outlet is 60Hz. [14]

What mains voltage is used in Barbuda?

The voltage used in Barbuda is 230 volts.

Which plug adapter will you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Barbuda?

Type A and B power outlets

Which plug adapter will you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Barbuda?

There are two different types of power outlets used in Barbuda, these are type B and A with the primary power outlets being type B:

  • Plug Type A - You can identify this power socket by the 2 adjacent slots next to each other for live and neutral blades.
  • Plug Type B - You can identify this power socket by the 2 slots next to each other where the short live and neutral blades sit with a single hole below for the slightly longer ground pin.

A recommended power adapter to bring to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Barbuda is a Type B power adapter, read the step-by-step guide below for full details of using a plug adapter for Barbuda. Please note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to confirm if you need to use a power converter.  [4] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

One way to tell if your hair dryer can support dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or plug. This location might depend on the make or model of your hair dryer and could also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models can change automatically but other hair dryers will have a switch which allows you to toggle between different voltages.

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

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

  1. Check that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer and that it works with a 230 volt power outlet.
  2. If the dryer is dual voltage please ensure that it is set to the 220-240V range. The switch is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to switch.
  3. Plug your dryer into the power adapter for Barbuda and then plug in the power adapter into the Barbudan power outlet.
  4. It's common on most dual voltage hair dryer models operating within the 220-240v range to only work safely on their lowest setting - however the temperature and speed should be adequate for drying hair. Please check the hair dryer instructions to see if this is relevant for your model of dual voltage hair dryer to avoid overheating.
  5. Your hair dryer is now ready to be used in Barbuda.

How do I change the voltage on a dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  1. Most models of dual voltage hair dryers have a switch or dial which changes between 2 ranges of voltages although some models can automatically detect the voltage from a Barbudan power outlet.
  2. This switch or dial needs a coin or screwdriver to set the dryer to the right voltage between the 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
  3. In addition to changing this over it is worth jotting down both switch positions as the painted numbers are prone to fading on some models of travel hair dryer.

Travelling to Barbuda with a hair dryer

Is it safe to bring my domestic blow dryer to Barbuda?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer instead of packing your existing domestic hair dryer to Barbuda as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Barbudan power outlet (provided that you use the correct power adapter for Barbuda). Travel hair dryers normally feature a collapsible handle and will be much lighter, this will help in reducing the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer. Please note that packing your expensive domestic blow dryer could place it at risk due to potential damage or loss in your luggage by a baggage handlers in Barbuda. The cost of replacing or repairing an expensive quality domestic hair dryer in Barbuda could overshadow the cost of buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case .  [16] [AD]

Can I pack a hair dryer in my hand luggage?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I pack a hair dryer in my 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 that is flying you to Barbuda 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 will avoid a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cables tightly around blow dryers). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive blow 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 bumps during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Barbuda?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Barbuda?

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

In cheaper motels, hotels and hostels a communal hair dryer could be available at the reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer policy you should either look on the hotel web site or call ahead to your hotel in Barbuda to find out if a suitable hairdryer available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are usable but are normally rudimentary models lacking a diffuser, notorious for providing slower 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]

Power converters for Barbuda

Do you need a power converter to use your hair dryer in Barbuda?

The correct type voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 230 volt power outlet used in Barbuda. Travellers wishing to bring along their own domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, but it might be a lot cheaper to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to buy 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 packing in luggage. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

An expensive and heavy power converter transforms a 230 volt Barbudan power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, however a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in Barbuda. [7] [AD]

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

How to use a hair dryer in Barbuda by using a three pin Type B power charger.

  1. Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 230 volt power outlet; if it doesn't then do not proceed because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure you have set it to accept 230 volts for use in Barbuda; please consult the user guide for more details on how to do this.
  2. If the shape of the power outlet used in Barbuda isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair dryer you will need to buy a Type B plug adapter [4]. This Type B plug adapter is designed to adapt plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet found in Barbuda by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Insert the Type B plug adapter in the Barbudan power outlet. You can identify this power outlet by the 2 slots next to each other where the short twin blades sit with a single hole below for the slightly longer ground pin.
  4. Then plug in the hair dryer into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Barbudan power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be used in Barbuda. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Barbuda using a type B power adapter

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

Instructions on how to power your hair dryer in Barbuda with a Type A power adapter.

  1. Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet; if it doesn't then do not proceed because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure you have set it to accept 230 volts to use in Barbuda; consult the user guide for more details on how to do this.
  2. 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 still check that your hair dryer can work with a 230 volt power outlet). If the shape of the power outlet used in Barbuda isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair dryer you will need to buy a Type A plug adapter [6]. This power adapter is designed to adapt plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet used in Barbuda by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Insert the Type A plug adapter in the Barbudan power outlet. You can identify this power outlet by the 2 slots next to each other where the short twin blades sit.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Barbudan power outlet. You can now switch on your hair dryer in Barbuda. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Barbuda using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - wikipedia.org entry about Barbuda
  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 A power outlet
  6. 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..
  7. 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..
  8. 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..
  9. 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..
  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. 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..
  13. 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..
  14. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  15. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  16. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  17. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.