Which travel adapter will you need to use a hair dryer in Papua New Guinea?

Papua New Guinea power outlet

Can I use my hairdryer in Papua New Guinea?

Check that your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Papua New Guinea:

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 Papua New Guinea power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter will change the voltage but not the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Papua New Guinea, so please check that your voltage transformer includes the correct power adapter for Papua New Guinea otherwise you will also need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Please be aware your own domestic hair dryer might not be suited for travel and you risk potential damage in transit. [5] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 240 volts you run a risk of a blown fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Prior to using your hair dryer in Papua New Guinea check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Papua New Guinea

Will my hair dryer work in Papua New Guinea?

This will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to handle the 240 volt power outlets in Papua New Guinea. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can handle 240 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you should be able to use your hair dryer in Papua New Guinea. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Read our section on do you need a voltage converter to use a hair dryer for help deciding which option is more suitable. [5] [AD]

Will my US hair dryer work in Papua New Guinea?

The instructions on this page assume that you're a reader from the US visiting Papua New Guinea and will provide advice on using your American hair dryer with a Papua New Guinea power outlet.

Best travel hair dryers for Papua New Guinea

How to choose the best travel hair dryer

Travel hair dryer with a folding handle

How to choose the best travel hair dryer

When choosing the best hair dryer look for a strong but light dual-voltage dryer that will work with a 240 volt Papua New Guinea power outlet power outlet with a folding handle, long power cord and a safety plug. When drying thicker hair buy a faster 1600+ watt dryer and included diffuser.

9 tips for buying a new travel hair dryer

  1. Safe travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will minimise the risk of overloading the motor that could lead to electrical fires; you can recognise these by the test and reset switches found on the plug.
  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. Depending on the hotel room you might find a mirror positioned some distance away from the nearest outlet making it cumbersome to style hair, therefore look for the lengthiest power cord possible or use either a portable mirror or a power extension cord.
  4. You shouldn't risk getting the cheapest travel hair dryer available - as well as concerns with safety there is also a greater risk that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to cheaper components.
  5. Rather than looking for more expensive third party attachments which fit the barrel exactly it could be more convenient purchasing a hair dryer which is supplied with a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer as these are designed to fit perfectly.
  6. A hair dryer has to support dual voltage in order to operate in Papua New Guinea.
  7. A cool shot option can quickly cool hair down after drying which will hold a style but this option could be missing in smaller models.
  8. The best travel hair dryers let you to change the temperature and speed with 2 options, a hotter faster speed will quickly dry thicker wet hair whereas a slower speed with a lower temperature should prevent damage to hair.
  9. Look for lighter travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models with a folding handle will mean more room.
Which is a good dual voltage hair dryer?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle

Which is a good dual voltage hair dryer?

  • Using a strong 2 speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features cool shot that can be used to rapidly cool down hair.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot button, a tourmaline ceramic outlet for negative ions resulting in safer drying, 2 heat options, a longer 1.8m electric power cord and includes a concentrator attachment.

Both models fold, have an ALCI power plug which prevents power overloads and has dual voltage making them ideal for travel to Papua New Guinea in carry on luggage when used along with a power adapter for a Papua New Guinea power outlet.  [6] [6] [7] [AD]

Which is a good hair dryer for thick curly hair?

Thick hair can take much longer to dry and will be hard to dry without hair turning frizzy. The best option is an ionic dryer, if the hair is curly use a diffuser as both are suitable to dry and manage hair smoothly. Either an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic are recommended because of their 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.  [8] [9] [AD]

What is a good folding dual voltage travel ionic hair dryer with a diffuser for Papua New Guinea?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

What is a good folding dual voltage travel ionic hair dryer with a diffuser for Papua New Guinea?

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

Both ionic hair dryers feature a concentrator and diffuser with powerful enough motors to make them the most suitable hair dryers for thick hair. They will only require a plug adapter for Papua New Guinea to fit into a Papua New Guinea power outlet, each dryer is light and folds up to fit into a carry-on travel bag.  [8] [9] [9] [AD]

Which is a good mini travel hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium

Which is a good mini travel hair dryer?

  • If you want to dry thin and fine hair whilst on the go the ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable mini ionic hair dryer available to buy.
  • A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is lightweight and small enough to carry in a purse because of the 10.5oz body with folding handle that also has options reserved for larger blow dryers such as a removable filter and a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect from heat damage which results in a glossy finish.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used with the right plug adapter for a Papua New Guinea power outlet they should work in Papua New Guinea folding conveniently enough to be carried around during the day for drying on the go. Both include a concentrator, have 1.5m electric power cables and a twin speed motor.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best travel blow dryer for Papua New Guinea?

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.com/BaBylissPRO-Titanium-Bambino-Compact-Dryer/dp/B0068SZ7UG?crid=2DINB36JPL4Y8&keywords=BaBylissPRO+Nano+Titanium+Travel&qid=1695049039&s=beauty&sprefix=babylisspro+nano+titanium+travel%2Cbeauty%2C159&sr=1-8&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=e8c6666d23ce4b94dacd3eebe6ee2e52&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Conair
Compact
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07HB2ZRNJ?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=0d63bbe1932e337ac284cff97127f87f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Berta
Folding
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XWV3K4L?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=8917b03d1d32d516d8d91e80a2c879c3&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
X5
Superlite
https://www.amazon.com/Revlon-Technolgy-Convenience-Worldwide-Included/dp/B00M8BDQXW?dchild=1&keywords=X5+Superlite+1600W+Dual+Voltage+Ceramic+Ionic+Travel+Dryer&qid=1624444396&sr=8-3&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=1d77c57773d2348052a5461909efc53b&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Hot Tools
1044
https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Tools-Professional-Ht1044-Folding/dp/B003A1DWRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1506767312&sr=1-1&keywords=Hot+Tools+Professional+Ht1044+Ionic+1875+Watt+Travel+Dryer+with+Folding+Handle+and+Dual+Votage&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=e4d6cd8511a014951b16d43f9ec3a809
Class Mini Compact Compact with diffuser
Works in Papua New Guinea 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.

Papua New Guinea power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Papua New Guinea?

The typical voltage in Papua New Guinea is 240 volts.

What is the frequency used in Papua New Guinea?

The frequency from a Papua New Guinea power outlet is 50 Hz. [12]

Which power adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Papua New Guinea?

Type I power outlet

Which power adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Papua New Guinea?

Type I power outlets are used in Papua New Guinea. This power socket (called a type I power outlet) can be recognised by the three slots in an upside-down triangular pattern with the top two slots sloping upward for the live, neutral and earth. A recommended travel adapter to bring for using a 240 volt hair dryer in Papua New Guinea is a Type I power adapter; read the step-by-step instructions below for full details of using a hair dryer in Papua New Guinea using a plug adapter. Please note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to check if you also need to bring a voltage converter.  [4] [13] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

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

  1. Most brands of dual voltage hair dryers have a dial or switch which toggles between two voltages however some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Papua New Guinea.
  2. This dial or switch will typically require either a screwdriver or coin to change the dryer to the correct voltage between a 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
  3. Also it's worth jotting down the two switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to fading on certain models of travel hair dryer.
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 will support dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the base, handle or plug. The location will depend on the make and model of your hair dryer, it could also state on the box. Some dual voltage hair dryers can 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 Papua New Guinea then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Papua New Guinea 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 Papua New Guinea power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Papua New Guinea.
  • A large voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Papua New Guinea or any other country.

How can I use a dual voltage blow dryer in Papua New Guinea?

  1. First check that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer and it will operate with a 240 volt power outlet.
  2. If your hair dryer is dual voltage then make sure that it is switched to operate within the 220-240V range. This is normally found on the handle or base of the hair dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to turn.
  3. Plug the dryer into the correct power adapter for Papua New Guinea, then plug in the power adapter into the Papua New Guinea power outlet.
  4. It is normal for most travel hair dryers operating within the 220-240V range to only work safely on a low setting, however the speed should be adequate enough for drying hair. Always check the hair dryer instructions to see if this is relevant for your model of dual voltage hair dryer to avoid overheating.
  5. Your dryer can now be used in Papua New Guinea.

Travelling to Papua New Guinea with a hair dryer

Is a hair dryer allowed on a plane to Papua New Guinea?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Is a hair dryer allowed on a plane to Papua New Guinea?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA suggests that you should check that the airline who is flying you to Papua New Guinea will allow hair 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 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 recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the greatest protection against bumps and knocks during transit.   [14] [15] [16] [AD]

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Papua New Guinea?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Papua New Guinea?

It depends on the hotel and the class of the accommodation. Hair dryers in hotels are normally found attached to a bathroom wall unit, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or might be located in a bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard.

If staying in budget hostels, motels and hotels a shared hair dryer could be available at 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 Papua New Guinea to find out if a suitable hairdryer available to guests. Hair dryers in hotels are usable but are typically rudimentary models lacking a diffuser and notorious for low heat and providing slow air speeds. Those worried about hygiene might want to check for the grime from other guests on a shared hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

Remember, if you are in doubt either telephone ahead to the hotel in Papua New Guinea or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Is it safe to bring a domestic blow dryer to Papua New Guinea?

Bringing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing your existing hair dryer to Papua New Guinea as it ensures that it will work with the 240 volt power outlets used with a Papua New Guinea power outlet (as long as you bring the correct plug adapter for Papua New Guinea). A travel hair dryer will normally feature a folding handle and will be lighter which will help reduce the size and weight when packed in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic blow dryer. It is also worth concidering that packing an expensive domestic blow dryer could put it at risk due to potential damage or loss in your suitcase by a baggage handlers in Papua New Guinea. The costs of replacing or repairing an expensive specialised domestic hair dryer in Papua New Guinea might overshadow 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 Papua New Guinea

Do you need a voltage converter to use your hair dryer in Papua New Guinea?

A power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 240 volt power outlet used in Papua New Guinea. A power converter is suitable for travellers who wish to use their existing hair dryer, but it could be more costly to buy a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be noticeably lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suitable when packing. [5] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in Papua New Guinea, whereas a heavier and more expensive power converter converts a 240 volt Papua New Guinea power outlet to work with a non-240 volt hair dryer. [5] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Papua New Guinea using a type I power adapter

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

  1. Please ensure that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work 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 dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure you have set it to accept 240 volts; refer to the owners manual for more information on how to do this.
  2. If the type of power outlet which is used in Papua New Guinea doesn't take the plug on your hair dryer you'll need to use a Type I plug adapter [4]. This power adapter will help adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries for use with a power outlet used in Papua New Guinea simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 240 volt outlet.
  3. Start the process by inserting the Type I plug adapter into the Papua New Guinea power outlet. This wall supply, technically known as the Type I power outlet [3], can be recognised by the 3 slots in a triangular shape with the top two slots sloping upwards for the live, neutral and ground.
  4. Then plug in the hair dryer into the Type I plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Papua New Guinea power outlet. Your hair dryer should now be ready for use. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Papua New Guinea using a type I power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Papua New Guinea Wikipedia web 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.