How do I use a hair dryer in Laos?
Will my blowdryer work in Laos?
First check that your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Laos:
- If your hair dryer can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can check) then you'll only need to bring a suitable power adapter for Laos listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit in the outlet.
If not then:
- Use a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] - you could need a power adapter for Laos however these lightweight accessories are designed specifically for travelling. Read our recommendations for the best travel hair driers which work work in Laos, along with nine things to consider when purchasing a new travel hair dryer and a comparison table of the best travel blow dryers.
- Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Lao power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter changes the voltage but won't change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Laos, therefore check that the voltage transformer includes a power adapter for Laos otherwise you will need to bring another power adapter. Please be aware your own domestic hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you could risk potential damage in transit. [8] [AD]
Using a hair dryer in Laos
Will my hair dryer work in Laos?
That will depend on if your hair dryer can operate using the 230 volt power outlets in Laos. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can operate using 230 volts and you have the correct plug adapter then you can use your hair dryer in Laos. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2], read the section on do you need a power converter to use your domestic hair dryer for help deciding which option is more suitable. [8] [AD]
Will my American hair dryer work in Laos?
The guides on this page assume that you are a reader from America visiting Laos and will provide guidance for using your US hair dryer with a Lao power outlet.
Best travel hair dryers for Laos
An ALCI safety plug
Choosing the best blow dryer for Laos
When looking for the best hair dryer choose a robust but light dual voltage model which will work with a 230 volt Lao power outlet power outlet with a safety plug, long cord and folding handle. For drying thicker hair buy one which includes a bundled diffuser that uses a stronger 1600+ watt motor.
9 tips for buying a new travel hair dryer
- Try to look for a lightweight travel hair dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models with a handle which folds mean more space.
- The best travel hair dryers for styling will allow you to change the speed and temperature settings with different options, lower temperatures with slower speeds reduce damage to hair whereas a faster hotter speed will quickly dry hair.
- Modern blow dryers feature a 'cool shot' button for quickly cooling down the hair after drying to hold a style but this option lacks in smaller or cheaper models.
- A hair dryer needs to be dual voltage to work in Laos.
- It could be cheaper to buy a new hair dryer which is supplied with both a diffuser and concentrator from the manufacturer rather than scouring shops to look for more expensive third party attachments.
- Hotel rooms in Laos might have a fixed mirror positioned some distance away from a power outlet which makes it difficult to use the travel dryer, so search for the lengthiest power cord possible or use either a hand mirror or an extension cable.
- Buying the cheapest dryer is risky; as well as concerns with safety there is also a greater chance that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to a flimsy construction.
- Thicker hair might require a travel blow dryer with a more powerful motor - a higher wattage ceramic model which includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster to avoid damage.
- Safe travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will minimise the danger of overloading the motor leading to starting electrical fires - you can idenfity these with the 2 reset and test buttons.
BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium
Which is the best mini folding travel hair dryer with dual voltage?
- The Conair MiniPRO is the cheapest mini ionic blowdryer available on the market, the ceramic 1200 watt dryer is suitable for quickly drying fine and thin hair on the go.
- For a folding hairdryer which is both small and lightweight enough to carry in a purse then the 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat to protect against heat damage this dryer has options typically reserved for bulkier models.
Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used along with a suitable plug adapter for a Lao power outlet they should work in Laos and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried around all day for drying on the go. Both include a concentrator, have 1.5 metre power cords and a twin speed motor. [9] [9] [10] [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 the hair going frizzy, the best option is an ionic dryer and for curly thick hair we suggest a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly. Either an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic will be suitable as 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 this won't be strong enough. [11] [12] [AD]
Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle
Which is a good dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser for Laos?
- The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65 metre power cord, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser but doesn't have a cool shot option.
- A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a long 1.82m electric power cable for more freedom when drying with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter for easy cleaning. It utilises a powerful 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it more suited for styling thick hair.
Each ionic hair dryer features a diffuser and concentrator attachment with powerful enough motors to make them the most suitable travel blow dryers for thick hair. Each hair dryer is light and folds up to pack in a carry-on bag and only require a power adapter for Laos to work with a Lao power outlet. [11] [12] [12] [AD]
Berta Folding Hair Dryer with attached concentrator
Which is a good compact dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot?
- A Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and features cool shot that can will quickly cool hair down.
- The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, 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.
Both models fold, have an ALCI plug to prevent overloading and has dual voltage making them ideal for travel to Laos in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a Lao power outlet. [13] [13] [14] [AD]
Best hair dryers for travel
What is the best travel hair dryer to buy for Laos?
| Conair MiniPRO  |
BaByliss PRO  |
Conair Compact  |
Berta Folding  |
X5 Superlite  |
Hot Tools 1044  |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class | Mini | Compact | Compact with diffuser | |||
| Works in Laos | 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.
Laos power outlets and plug sockets
What electrical frequency is used with a Lao power outlet?
The frequency from a Lao power outlet is 50 Hz. [15]
What is the mains voltage in Laos?
The normal residential voltage used in Laos is 230 volts.
Type C, E and F power outlets
Which power adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Laos?
There are three different types of power outlets used in Laos, these are type F, C and E with the primary power outlets being type F:
- Plug Type C - You can identify this wall outlet by 2 holes next to each other where the twin pins slide into.
- Plug Type E - The recessed circular plug socket can be identified by two large circular adjacent holes next to each other where the twin plug socket pins slide into and one metal earth pin protruding in the top in a triangle shape.
- Plug Type F - You can identify this wall outlet by two holes 19 mm next to each other where the twin plug socket pins slide into, plus a pair of two thin metal grounding clips at the top and bottom.
A suitable plug adapter to bring to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Laos is a Type F power adapter - read the step by step guide below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Laos. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to use a power converter. [6] [16] [AD]
Dual voltage hair dryers
How can you use your dual voltage blow dryer in Laos?
- Check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and it will operate with a 230 volt power socket.
- If the dryer is dual voltage then make sure it is set to the 220-240 volt range. This is normally found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and requires a coin or screwdriver to switch.
- Plug your hair dryer into the correct power adapter for Laos, then plug in the power adapter into the Lao power outlet.
- It's common on a majority of travel hair dryers operating within the 220-240V range to only work safely on a low setting, but this temperature should be adequate for drying hair. We recommend checking the manufacturers guidelines to see if this is relevant for your model of hair dryer to avoid the risk of overheating.
- The hair dryer can now be used with a Lao power outlet.
How do you switch the voltage on a travel hair dryer?
- Most models of dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which selects between 2 voltages however some dryers can automatically detect the voltage from a Lao power outlet.
- 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.
- Also, it's worth jotting down both switch positions as the painted numbers are prone to fading on some models.
Dual 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 support a dual voltage outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the base, handle or plug of your hair dryer. This location might depend on the make and model of your hair dryer, it should also be written on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair dryers can change automatically, however other hair dryer models will have a switch which allows you to operate between different regions.
- Single voltage could say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Laos then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Lao power outlet.
- Single voltage could also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 230 volts used in a Lao power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Laos.
- Dual voltage will typically say a larger range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Laos or any other country if these numbers are shown.
Travelling to Laos with a hair dryer
Is it safe to bring a domestic blow dryer to Laos?
It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer rather than bringing an existing domestic blow dryer to Laos as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Lao power outlet (as long as you bring the correct plug adapter for Laos). 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 packing a domestic blow dryer. Be aware that bringing an expensive domestic blow dryer could place it at risk because of potential loss or damage in your suitcase by airport baggage handlers in Laos. The costs involved in repairing an expensive quality domestic hair dryer in Laos might outweigh the costs of buying a much cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off . [17] [AD]
Hotel hair dryer
Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Laos?
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 in the bathroom, these could be a slower air hose variety, or might be located in a bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer.
In cheaper hotels, hostels and motels a shared hair dryer could be available at the reception but that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt as to hotel hairdryer availability you should either telephone the hotel in Laos or look on the booking web site to find out if a suitable hairdryer available to 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 grime from other guests on a communal hair dryer as room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.
Guests who don't want to take a chance that a suitable or germ-free hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer. [2] [AD]
Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on
Is a hair dryer allowed onboard a flight in Laos?
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 that is flying you to Laos will allow a blow dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft.
Packing your blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible for airport security, it can be packed away quickly and will avoid a tangle of power cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cables 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. [17] [18] [19] [AD]
Power converters for Laos
Voltage converter
What is the difference between a power adapter and a power converter?
A heavy and bulky power converter transforms a 230 volt Lao power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, whereas a more lightweight and cheaper power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in Laos. [8] [AD]
Do you need a converter to use a hair dryer in Laos?
A suitable power converter (or voltage transformer) allows your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 230 volt power outlet used in Laos. Travellers who want to use their own domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, however it could be more costly to buy 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 significantly smaller than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for packing. [8] [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Laos using a type C power adapter
How to use your hair dryer in Laos with a two pin Type C travel adapter.
- Check that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet but if not then don't attempt these instructions 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 make sure you have set it to accept 230 volts - please consult the owners manual to find out how to do this.
- You will need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4] if the type of power outlet which is used in Laos isn't the same shape as the plug shape on your hair dryer. This power adapter will convert plugs on appliances from other countries for use with an electrical outlet in Laos by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
- Plug in the Type C plug adapter in the wall outlet. This wall supply, also called a Europlug or Type C power outlet [3], is recognised by the two round adjacent holes.
- Plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
- Switch on the Lao power outlet.
- The hair dryer can now be used in Laos. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Laos using a type E power adapter
How to use your hair dryer in Laos with a two prong Type E travel adapter.
- 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 attempt these instructions as you might blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Some dual voltage travel blow dryers might sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure you have set it to accept 230 volts for use in Laos; refer to the instructions for more details on where this switch is located.
- You'll need to use a Type E plug adapter [6] if the type of power outlet which is used in Laos won't take the plug of your hair dryer. This Type E plug adapter will help fit different plugs from other countries for a power outlet used in Laos simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
- Start by inserting the Type E plug adapter in the Lao power outlet. You can identify this wall supply by two 4.8mm round holes 19mm adjacent to each other for live and neutral pins along with a metal earth pin protruding in the top in a triangle configuration.
- Plug in your hair dryer into the Type E plug adapter.
- Switch on the Lao power outlet.
- The hair dryer can now be used in Laos. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Laos using a type F power adapter
A step-by-step guide showing you how to power a hair dryer in Laos by using a Type F power charger.
- Check that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 230 volt power outlet; 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. Dual voltage blow dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer make sure you have set it to accept 230 volts - please consult the user guide to find out where this switch is found.
- You'll need to buy a Type F plug adapter [6] if the shape of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the plug outlet used in Laos. This power adapter will convert plugs on appliances from other countries for use with an electrical outlet found in Laos simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
- Begin by inserting the Type F plug adapter in the wall outlet. You can identify this wall supply by two holes 19 mm apart from each other where the two pins sit, plus a pair of two thin metal grounding clips above and below.
- Next plug in the hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
- Turn on the Lao power outlet. The hair dryer can now be used in Laos. [AD]
See also
External links
We endeavour to ensure that links on this page are periodically checked and correct for suitability. This website may receive commissions for purchases made through links on this page. As an Amazon Associate WikiConnections earn from qualifying purchases. For more details please read the disclaimers page.
- Wikipedia - wikipedia.org page about Laos
- Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
- iec.ch - Type C power outlet
- Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
- iec.ch - Type E power outlet
- Type E plug adapter - A CEE 7/5 socket and CEE 7/6 plug compliant Type E adapter designed with a focus on safety, featuring two round pins and an earthing hole. Ideal for use in the France, Belgium, Poland and several African nations..
- iec.ch - Type F power outlet
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
- iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
- Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
- tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
- Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
| 2 other devices in this category | |
| Connecting a Lao power outlet to: |
|