Which power adapter will I need to bring to use a hair dryer in Gibraltar?

Gibraltar power outlet

Can I use my blow dryer in Gibraltar?

First check that your hair dryer can work in Gibraltar:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 240 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you'll only need to use a suitable power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 240 volt Gibraltar power outlet, however this is significantly heavier, bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but won't change the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Gibraltar, therefore please check that the voltage transformer has a power adapter for Gibraltar otherwise you will also need to bring another power adapter. Please note - your domestic hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you risk damage in your luggage. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 240 volts you run the risk of blowing a fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Before using your hair dryer in Gibraltar check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Gibraltar

Will my hair dryer work in Gibraltar?

This depends on if your hair dryer can handle the 240 volts which are used in Gibraltar. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can handle 240 volts and you have the appropriate plug adapter then you'll be able to use your hair dryer in Gibraltar. If not then you will need to consider bringing either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter, read our guide on do you need a power converter to use a hair dryer for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Can I use my US hair dryer in Gibraltar?

The instructions on this page assume that you are an America reader visiting Gibraltar and provide guidance for using your US hair dryer with a Gibraltar power outlet.

Best travel hair dryers for Gibraltar

Choosing the best travel blow dryer for Gibraltar

Dual voltage switch on travel hair dryer

Choosing the best travel blow dryer for Gibraltar

When looking for the best travel hair dryer choose a strong but light dual voltage dryer that will work with a 240 volt Gibraltar power outlet power outlet, includes a safety plug, a folding handle and long cable. When drying thicker hair buy one with a bundled diffuser that has a higher 1600+ watt motor.

What should I look for when buying a hair dryer?

  1. Buying the cheapest travel dryer available could be risky; as well as safety issues there is also a greater chance that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to cheaper components.
  2. The safest travel hair dryers will include an ALCI safety plug which minimises the risk of the motor overloading that could lead to electrical fires; these are identified with 'test' and 'reset' buttons on the plug.
  3. If you have thicker hair then you might require a blow dryer which has a more powerful motor; a high wattage ceramic model that includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby preventing damage.
  4. Your hair dryer needs to support dual voltage to function in Gibraltar.
  5. The cool shot feature on modern travel dryers will quickly cool down the hair after drying which will hold in a style but this feature is missing in cheaper models.
  6. Depending on your hotel room you could find a fixed mirror installed some distance away from a outlet which could make it cumbersome to dry hair, therefore shop for the unit with the lengthiest power cord possible.
  7. Rather than looking for expensive third party attachments it could be more convenient to purchase a new dryer which includes a diffuser and a concentrator as these will fit perfectly.
  8. Look for a lighter travel hair dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models which have a handle which folds mean more room for packing other items.
  9. Ideal travel hair dryers should allow you to alter both temperature and speed settings with two options - hotter faster speeds will quickly dry thicker hair whilst lower temperatures with slower speeds reduce damage to your hair.
Which is a good dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

Which is a good dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65 metre electric power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but it is missing a cool shot feature.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a long 1.82 metre electric power cable for greater freedom when styling with an ALCI safety plug and removable filter to clean easily. With a strong 1875 watt motor it also has cool shot making it perfect for styling thicker hair.

Both ionic hair dryers feature a concentrator and diffuser with strong motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. They require a suitable cheap power adapter for Gibraltar to work with a Gibraltar power outlet, each dryer is lightweight and folds up to pack into a carry-on travel bag.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is the best small ionic dual voltage hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle

What is the best small ionic dual voltage hair dryer?

  • A Conair MiniPRO is the most cost effective small ionic blow dryer available on the market, this 1200 watt ceramic dryer is suitable for quickly drying fine or thin hair whilst on the go.
  • For a folding hairdryer which is compact enough to carry in a handbag then a 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat to protect from heat damage this dryer manages to incorporate options normally found on bulkier hairdryers.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used with the right power adapter for a Gibraltar power outlet they will work in Gibraltar and fold conveniently enough to be carried for styling on the go. They have a two speed motor, have a 1.5 metre electric power cord and include a concentrator attachment.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with cool shot for Gibraltar?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with cool shot for Gibraltar?

  • A Conair Compact Styler has a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and includes a cool shot setting that can be used to rapidly cool hair down to give a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot setting, a ceramic tourmaline air outlet resulting in safer and quicker drying, two heat settings, a longer 1.8m electric power cord and also includes a concentrator attachment.

Each model is folding, has an ALCI power plug to prevent power overloads and has dual voltage making both perfect for travel to Gibraltar in carry on luggage when used with a power adapter for a Gibraltar power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is a good hair dryer for thick and curly hair?

Thicker hair takes much longer to dry and could be hard to do so without hair turning frizzy, the best option for thick hair is an ionic hair dryer and for curly thick hair we suggest a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Either an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic are recommended because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [8] [9] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel blow dryer to buy for Gibraltar?

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 Gibraltar 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.

Gibraltar power outlets and plug sockets

What mains voltage is used in Gibraltar?

The normal voltage in Gibraltar is 240 volts.

What is the electrical frequency used in a Gibraltar power outlet?

The frequency used in a Gibraltar power outlet is 50Hz. [14]

Which power adapter do you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Gibraltar?

Type C and G power outlets

Which power adapter do you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Gibraltar?

There are two different types of power outlets used in Gibraltar, types G and C with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type C - You can identify the power outlet by the two round adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral.
  • Plug Type G - You can recognise this plug outlet by the 3 vertical holes with shutters in a triangular shape.

A suitable travel adapter to bring to use a 240 volt hair dryer in Gibraltar is a Type G plug adapter; read the step-by-step guide below for full details of using a hair dryer in Gibraltar. Please note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to see if you have to bring a power converter.  [6] [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?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer supports a dual voltage outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or plug. The location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer and could also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage hair dryers will change automatically, however other hair dryers will have a button which allows you to operate between different regions depending on which country you are visiting.

  • Single voltage could say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 240 volts used in Gibraltar then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Gibraltar power outlet.
  • Single voltage might also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 240 volts used in a Gibraltar power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Gibraltar.
  • Dual voltage will say a large range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Gibraltar or any other country if these numbers are shown.

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

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

How do I use my dual voltage blow dryer in Gibraltar?

  1. Check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it will work with a 240 volt power outlet.
  2. If your dryer supports dual voltage then ensure that it is set to operate within the 220-240 volt range. The switch is usually found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to turn.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the power adapter for Gibraltar, also plug in the power adapter into the Gibraltar power outlet.
  4. It is common on most travel hair dryer models operating in the 220-240v range to only work safely on a low speed setting, but the temperature should still be adequate for drying hair. Always check the manufacturers instructions to see if this is applicable for your model of hair dryer to avoid overheating.
  5. The dryer is now ready to operate with a Gibraltar power outlet.

Travelling to Gibraltar with a hair dryer

Can I pack a blow dryer in my carry on?

Folding travel hair dryer

Can I pack a blow dryer in my carry on?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA recommends that you should verify that your airline who is taking you to Gibraltar will allow blow dryers 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 checks, it can be packed away quickly and will avoid a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cables tightly around electronic items). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against knocks and drops during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Gibraltar?

Hotel hair dryer

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Gibraltar?

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

When staying in budget hotels, hostels and motels a communal hair dryer could be available at reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer policy then either call ahead to your hotel in Gibraltar or look on the hotel web site to find out if a suitable hairdryer available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but are typically rudimentary models with no diffuser and notorious for low heat and slower air speeds. For those concerned with hygiene should check for grime from other guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

Remember, if you are in doubt either call ahead to your hotel in Gibraltar or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Is it safe to bring a domestic hair dryer to Gibraltar?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to bringing your existing domestic hair dryer to Gibraltar as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 240 volt power outlets used with a Gibraltar power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Gibraltar). Travel hair dryers typically feature a collapsible handle and will be lighter, this will help reduce the size and weight when packed in luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer.

Be aware that packing an expensive domestic hair dryer might place it at risk due to potential loss or damage in your luggage by an airline baggage handler in Gibraltar. The cost of repairing an expensive specialised domestic blow dryer in Gibraltar could be higher than purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before travelling to bring with you .  [17] [AD]

Power converters for Gibraltar

Do I need a power converter to use a hair dryer in Gibraltar?

The correct model of power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 240 volt power outlet used in Gibraltar. A power converter is suitable for travellers who want to use their existing domestic hair dryer, however it might be cheaper to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to purchase a power converter. Also, a travel hair dryer can be substantially lighter and smaller than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for travelling. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Gibraltar, whereas a more expensive and heavier power converter will transform a 240 volt Gibraltar power outlet to work with a non-240 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Gibraltar using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Gibraltar using a two pronged Type C power charger.

  1. Please ensure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 240 volt power outlet - if not then do not continue because you could 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 the switch is set to accept 240 volts for use in Gibraltar - consult the user guide for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. You'll need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4] if the type of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Gibraltar. This plug adapter is designed to convert different plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet found in Gibraltar simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 240 volt outlet.
  3. Begin the process by taking the Type C plug adapter and inserting it in the power outlet. You can identify the power supply by the two round adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Gibraltar power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Gibraltar using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Gibraltar using a type G power adapter

A guide showing how to use a hair dryer in Gibraltar with a Type G travel charger.

  1. Please check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 240 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't continue because you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer make sure you have set it to the 240 volt setting to use in Gibraltar, please refer to the manufacturers instructions to find out where this switch is.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Gibraltar you'll need to bring a Type G plug adapter [6]. This plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries for use with a power outlet in Gibraltar simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 240 volt outlet.
  3. Insert the Type G plug adapter into the power outlet. This plug supply (technically called the Type G power outlet [5]) looks like 3 rectangular slots containing shutters forming a triangle pattern for live, neutral and ground.
  4. After that plug in your hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Gibraltar power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be used in Gibraltar. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Gibraltar using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia web page about Gibraltar
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  4. 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..
  5. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  6. Type G plug adapter - An earthed BS 1363 certified UK power adapter, featuring a fuse to protect against overload and consequent fire risks. Ideal for use in over 50 countries, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and also in international cities like Dubai and Hong Kong..
  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. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  17. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.