How do I use my hair dryer in The Isle of Man?

Manx power outlet

Will my hairdryer work in The Isle of Man?

Check that your hair dryer can work in The Isle of Man:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 240 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you'll only need to use an appropriate power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit in the outlet.

If not then either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 240 volt Manx power outlet, however this is substantially heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but won't change the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in The Isle of Man, therefore please check that the power converter includes a suitable power adapter for The Isle of Man otherwise you will need to purchase another power adapter. Please be aware that your domestic hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you risk potential damage in transit. [5] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 240 volts used in The Isle of Man you run a risk of blowing a fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Before using your hair dryer in The Isle of Man check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in The Isle of Man

Will my hair dryer work in The Isle of Man?

That will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 240 volts as used in The Isle of Man. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can handle 240 volts and you have the correct power adapter then you should be able to use the hair dryer in The Isle of Man. If not then you will need to consider using either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Read the section on do you need a voltage converter to use your hair dryer for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [5] [AD]

How can I use my US hair dryer in The Isle of Man?

The guides on this page assume that you're an America reader visiting The Isle of Man and provide advice on using your US hair dryer with a Manx power outlet.

Best travel hair dryers for The Isle of Man

How to choose the best travel hair dryer for The Isle of Man

Bundled concentrator and diffuser attachments

How to choose the best travel hair dryer for The Isle of Man

When choosing the best travel hair dryer look for a sturdy but lightweight dual-voltage model that works with a 240 volt Manx power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, long cable and ALCI safety plug. If drying thick hair buy a dryer with a faster 1600+ watt motor and bundled diffuser.

What to look for when purchasing a hair dryer?

  1. Try looking for a lightweight travel dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models with a folding handle mean more room for packing other items.
  2. Modern blow dryers might feature a cool shot button for rapidly cooling down the hair after drying to hold in a style but this feature lacks in cheaper models.
  3. Your hair dryer has to be dual voltage in order to operate with a 240 volt Manx power outlet.
  4. Ideal travel hair dryers should let you to control both speed and temperature with low and high options; a slower speed with a lower temperature will reduce damage to your hair and a hotter faster speed can dry thicker wet hair quickly.
  5. Don't be tempted to go for the cheapest travel dryer on the market, as well as safety issues there is also a greater risk that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to a poor construction.
  6. It could be more convenient to buy a hair dryer that is supplied with a diffuser and concentrator rather than scouring stores to look for expensive third party attachments.
  7. Some hotel rooms might have a wall mirror positioned away from a power outlet making it hard to use the hair dryer, therefore look for a model with the lengthiest power cord available or bring either an extension cable or portable mirror.
  8. The safest travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will reduce the danger of overloading that could start electrical fires, you can idenfity these with the 2 test and reset switches on the plug.
  9. Thicker or curlier hair may require a blow dryer which has a stronger motor; a high wattage ceramic model that includes a diffuser will dry hair faster to avoid damage.
What is the best travel hair dryer with a diffuser?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

What is the best travel hair dryer with a diffuser?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however lacks cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a long 1.82 metre electric power cord for more freedom when styling with an ALCI safety plug and removable filter for easy cleaning. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it includes a cool shot option making it ideal for styling thicker hair.

Each ionic hair dryer includes a diffuser and concentrator with strong enough motors to make them the best travel hair dryers suitable for thick hair. Both will require a suitable cheap power adapter for The Isle of Man to work with a Manx power outlet, each dryer is lightweight and folds up to fit in carry-on baggage.  [6] [6] [7] [AD]

What is the best mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage for The Isle of Man?

The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle

What is the best mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage for The Isle of Man?

  • To dry thin and fine hair on the go the ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the best value mini ionic hairdryer available to buy.
  • The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is lightweight enough to transport in a purse because of it's 10.5oz body with folding handle and also has features reserved for larger hair dryers including a removable filter and a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect from heat damage during use which results in a glossy finish.

Both mini hair dryers are dual voltage when used in combination with a suitable plug adapter for a Manx power outlet they will work in The Isle of Man and fold conveniently enough to be carried for drying on the go. Both include a concentrator attachment, have 1.5m power cables and a two speed motor.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

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

Thicker hair will take much longer to dry and might be difficult to dry without your hair going frizzy. The best option for this type of hair is an ionic blow dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are suitable because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [6] [7] [AD]

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with cool shot for The Isle of Man?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with cool shot for The Isle of Man?

  • The Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and includes a cool shot setting that can will rapidly cool hair down to give a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, uses a tourmaline ceramic air outlet resulting in safer and faster drying, two heat settings, a longer 1.8m power cable and comes with a concentrator.

Both models can fold, have an ALCI power plug to prevent power overloads and has dual voltage making both ideal for visiting The Isle of Man in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a Manx power outlet.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel hair dryer for The Isle of Man?

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 The Isle of Man 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.

The Isle of Man power outlets and plug sockets

What is the electrical frequency used in The Isle of Man?

The frequency in a Manx power outlet is 50Hz. [12]

What is the mains voltage in The Isle of Man?

The residential voltage in The Isle of Man is 240 volts.

Which travel adapter do you need to bring to use a hair dryer in The Isle of Man?

Type G power outlet

Which travel adapter do you need to bring to use a hair dryer in The Isle of Man?

Type G power outlets are used in The Isle of Man. The power outlet, technically called a type G power outlet, looks like 3 vertical holes forming a triangle pattern. A suitable travel adapter to bring to use a 240 volt hair dryer in The Isle of Man is a Type G plug adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of using a hair dryer in The Isle of Man. Please note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to bring a power converter.  [4] [13] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How do you use your dual voltage hair dryer in The Isle of Man?

  1. Check that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or it works with a 240 volt power socket.
  2. If your dryer supports dual voltage then ensure it is switched to work in the 220-240V range. The switch is normally found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the power adapter for The Isle of Man, also plug in the power adapter into the Manx power outlet.
  4. It's normal for a majority of travel hair dryer models operating within the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on their lowest setting; but the temperature should still be adequate enough for drying hair. Check the hair dryer instructions to see if this rule is appropriate for your model of dual voltage dryer to prevent overheating.
  5. The dryer can now be used in The Isle of Man.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer supports dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the base, handle or plug of your hair dryer. The location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer and should also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models can change automatically but other hair dryer models will feature a button which allows you to operate between different regions.

  • Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 240 volts used in The Isle of Man then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Manx 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 240 volts used in a Manx power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in The Isle of Man.
  • Dual voltage will typically say a larger voltage range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in The Isle of Man or any other country if these numbers are shown.

How should you change the voltage on a dual voltage hair dryer?

  1. Most brands of dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which changes between two types of voltages however some models can automatically detect the voltage used in The Isle of Man.
  2. This switch or dial needs either a screwdriver or coin to set the dryer to the correct voltage between a 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
  3. Also it is worth making a note of the two switch positions because the painted numbers can sometimes rub off on some models of travel dryer.

Travelling to The Isle of Man with a hair dryer

Is it better to bring a domestic hair dryer or a travel hair dryer to The Isle of Man?

Bringing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing an existing hair dryer to The Isle of Man (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 240 volt power outlets used with a Manx power outlet (as long as you bring the correct power adapter for The Isle of Man). Travel hair dryers typically feature a folding handle and are much lighter which helps in reducing the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer. Note that packing an expensive domestic hair dryer could put it at risk because of potential damage or loss in your suitcase by airport baggage handlers. The cost and inconvenience of repairing an expensive specialised domestic blow dryer in The Isle of Man might be more than buying a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case beforehand to bring along .  [14] [AD]

Do hotel rooms in The Isle of Man have hair dryers?

Hair dryer attached to hotel desk

Do hotel rooms in The Isle of Man have hair dryers?

It depends on the hotel or bed and breakfast and the quality of the accommodation. Hair dryers in hotel rooms are typically found in the bathroom, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or might be found in a bedroom wardrobe, cupboard or drawer. When staying in budget hotels, hostels and motels a communal hair dryer could be offered at the reception but might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer policy you could either check on the booking web site or call ahead to the hotel in The Isle of Man to find out what type of hairdryer is available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are usable but typically rudimentary models with no diffuser and notorious for providing slow air speeds and low heat. Those concerned with hygiene should check for the burnt hair from other guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

Remember, if in doubt either telephone ahead to your hotel in The Isle of Man or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Can a hair dryer go in my carry on?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can a hair dryer go in my carry on?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA recommends that you should check that the airline which is flying you to The Isle of Man will allow blow dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft. Packing your hair dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible when going through airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cords tightly around electronic items). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against drops and knocks during transit.   [14] [15] [16] [AD]

Power converters for The Isle of Man

Do you need a voltage converter to use your hair dryer in The Isle of Man?

The correct voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 240 volt power outlet used in The Isle of Man. A power converter is suitable for travellers wishing to bring their own hair dryer, however it might be more costly to purchase a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. A power converter is also significantly bulkier and heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suited for travelling compared to a travel hair dryer. [5] [AD]

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a power converter for The Isle of Man?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a power converter for The Isle of Man?

A heavy and expensive power converter will transform a 240 volt Manx power outlet to work with a non-240 volt hair dryer, but a more lightweight and cheaper power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in The Isle of Man. [5] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in The Isle of Man using a type G power adapter

A page showing how to use a hair dryer in The Isle of Man using a Type G travel adapter.

  1. Check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 240 volt power outlet - if not then do not attempt these instructions 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; please refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. You'll need to buy a Type G plug adapter [4] if the shape of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in The Isle of Man. The Type G plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries into a power outlet found in The Isle of Man 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 supply.
  3. Begin the process by plugging the Type G plug adapter into the power outlet. The power supply, technically called the Type G power outlet [3], looks like 3 vertical holes forming a triangle shape for live, neutral and ground.
  4. Then plug in your hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Manx power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on the hair dryer for use in The Isle of Man. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in The Isle of Man using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - The Isle of Man Wikipedia page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  4. 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..
  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. 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..
  7. 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..
  8. 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..
  9. 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..
  10. 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..
  11. 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..
  12. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  13. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  14. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  15. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  16. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.