Using a hair dryer in Saint Martin

St Martins power outlet

Can I use my hair dryer in Saint Martin?

First check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Saint Martin:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you will only need to bring an appropriate power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit in the outlet.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt St Martins power outlet, however this is considerably bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but won't change the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Saint Martin, therefore please check that your voltage transformer has a power adapter for Saint Martin otherwise you will still need to purchase another power adapter. Please be aware that your domestic hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you could risk damage in your luggage. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts used in Saint Martin you run a risk of an electrical fire hazard, a blown fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Before using your hair dryer in Saint Martin read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Saint Martin

Will my hair dryer work in Saint Martin?

That will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to handle the 230 volt power outlets used in Saint Martin. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to handle 230 volts and you have the correct power adapter then you can use the hair dryer in Saint Martin. If not then you will need to consider bringing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Read the guide on do you need a power converter to use a domestic hair dryer for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Will my American hair dryer work in Saint Martin?

The instructions on this page assume that you are a reader from the US visiting Saint Martin and provide guidance for using your American hair dryer with a St Martins power outlet.

Best travel hair dryers for Saint Martin

What to look for when choosing a hair dryer for Saint Martin

A dual voltage switch on a hair dryer

What to look for when choosing a hair dryer for Saint Martin

When looking for the best hair dryer for Saint Martin choose a robust but lightweight dual-voltage model that will operate with a 230 volt St Martins power outlet power outlet with a folding handle, long cable and ALCI safety plug. If drying thick hair look for a dryer with a higher 1600+ watt motor and bundled diffuser.

What should I look for when buying a hair dryer?

  1. Modern hair dryers could include a 'cool shot' option for quickly cooling hair down after drying to hold in a style but this feature is missing in cheaper models.
  2. Try looking for lightweight travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models which have a handle which folds will mean more room for packing other items.
  3. To function in Saint Martin your hair dryer needs to support dual voltage.
  4. Don't risk buying the cheapest hair dryer on the market, as well as issues with safety there is a greater chance that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to cheaper components.
  5. Suitable hair dryers for styling give control of the temperature and speed settings with different options, a slower speed with a lower temperature will reduce damage to hair whilst a faster hotter speed can dry thicker hair faster.
  6. The safest travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which minimises the risk of the motor overloading and starting electrical fires; these are identified with 'test' and 'reset' buttons on the plug.
  7. It could be more convenient and cheaper to buy a dryer which includes both a concentrator and diffuser rather than scouring stores to look for expensive 3rd party attachments which fit the dryer barrel exactly.
  8. If you have curlier or thicker hair then you could need a travel blow dryer which has a more powerful motor. A higher wattage ceramic model that includes a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby avoiding damage.
  9. Some hotel rooms might have a mirror positioned away from a power outlet making it hard to style hair, so look for a model with the lengthiest power cord available or bring either a power extension cord or a hand mirror.
What is the best travel ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment for Saint Martin?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer

What is the best travel ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment for Saint Martin?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m power cable, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser however lacks a cool shot option.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a lengthy 1.82 metre electric power cord for more flexibility when styling with an ALCI safety plug and removable filter to clean. With a strong 1875 watt motor it also has a cool shot feature making it suitable for styling thicker hair.

Both ionic hair dryers include a concentrator and diffuser attachment with strong enough motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. They only require a suitable cheap power adapter for Saint Martin to work with a St Martins 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 concentrator attachment

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.
  • A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is lightweight enough to carry in a handbag due to a 10.5oz body with folding handle and also has options found on larger dryers such as a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage resulting in a shiny finish.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used along with a suitable plug adapter for a St Martins power outlet they will work in Saint Martin and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried around during the day for styling on the go. Both include a concentrator attachment, have 1.5 metre electric power cords and a two speed motor.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best blow dryer for thick curly hair?

Thicker hair will take longer to dry and will be hard to do so without the hair going frizzy. The best option for this type of hair is an ionic dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are suitable to dry and manage hair smoothly. Both 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 blow dryer with a motor that is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [8] [9] [AD]

What is the best compact dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot for Saint Martin?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle

What is the best compact dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot for Saint Martin?

  • A Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and includes cool shot which can will rapidly cool down hair.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, uses a tourmaline ceramic air outlet for negative ions meaning safer and faster styling, twin heat options, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cable and comes with a concentrator.

Both models fold, include an ALCI power plug which prevents overloading and support dual voltage making them ideal for visiting Saint Martin in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a St Martins power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best hair dryer for Saint Martin?

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 Saint Martin 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.

Saint Martin power outlets and plug sockets

What electrical frequency is used in a St Martins power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current in a St Martins power outlet is 60 Hz. [14]

What is the mains voltage in Saint Martin?

Power outlets in Saint Martin are 230 volts.

Which travel adapter do you need when using a hair dryer in Saint Martin?

Type C and F power outlets

Which travel adapter do you need when using a hair dryer in Saint Martin?

There are two types of power outlets used in Saint Martin, these are type F and C with the primary power outlets being type F:

  • Plug Type C - The power outlet is identified by 2 round holes adjacent to each other where the live and neutral pins slide into.
  • Plug Type F - This sunken circular wall socket, also known as the type F power outlet, can be identified by two circular holes 19 mm next to each other where the live and neutral pins go and a pair of metal grounding clips above and below.

A recommended plug adapter to bring when using a 230 volt hair dryer in Saint Martin is a Type F plug adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of using a power adapter for Saint Martin. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to confirm if you also need to use a power converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

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 can accept a dual voltage power outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or the handle of your hair dryer. This location will depend on the make or model of your hair dryer, it should also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair dryers might change automatically but other hair dryer models will feature a button or switch which allows you to change between different voltage ranges.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Saint Martin then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a St Martins power outlet.
  • A small voltage range with a dash such as 100-120V also indicates a single voltage hair dryer which can accomodate small voltage fluctuations. If the 230 volts used in a St Martins power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Saint Martin.
  • A large voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Saint Martin or any other country.

How do I use my dual voltage blow dryer in Saint Martin?

  1. Check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it will work with a 230 volt power outlet.
  2. If your dryer supports dual voltage then make sure that it is set to operate within the 220-240V range. This is usually found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the power adapter for Saint Martin and then plug in the power adapter into the St Martins power outlet.
  4. It is common on most dual voltage hair dryers operating in the 220-240v range to only work safely on a low setting; but the speed should be sufficient for drying hair. Always check the hair dryer guidelines to find out if this is applicable for your model of dual voltage dryer to prevent overheating.
  5. The hair dryer is now ready to be used with a St Martins power outlet.

How should you switch a dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which toggles between 2 types of voltages however some models can automatically detect the voltage from a St Martins power outlet.
  2. The dial or switch requires either a coin or screwdriver to change the dryer to the correct voltage between a 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
  3. Also, it is worth jotting down the two switch positions because the painted numbers can sometimes rub off on certain models.

Travelling to Saint Martin with a hair dryer

Is it safe to bring a domestic hair dryer to Saint Martin?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to bringing your existing domestic hair dryer to Saint Martin as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a St Martins power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Saint Martin). Travel hair dryers typically feature a collapsible handle and will be lighter, this will help in reducing the size and weight when packed in luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer. Note that packing an expensive domestic blow dryer might place it at risk due to potential loss or damage in transit by an airline baggage handler. The cost and inconvenience of repairing an expensive quality hair dryer in Saint Martin could outweigh the costs of purchasing a much cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before your trip .  [16] [AD]

Can blow dryers go in your carry on?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can blow dryers go in your carry on?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered blow dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also suggests that you should verify that your airline that is flying you to Saint Martin will allow blow dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing the blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible when going through airport security, it can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cords tightly around blow dryers). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to bring hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against bumps and knocks during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Do hotel rooms in Saint Martin have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Saint Martin have hair dryers?

This will all depend on the hotel or bed and breakfast and the class of the room. Hotel room hair dryers are typically found in the bathroom, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or could be located in the bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer. When staying in cheaper motels, hotels and hostels a shared hair dryer might be offered at the reception but might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer availability you can either look on the hotel web site or telephone your hotel in Saint Martin to find out if a suitable hairdryer available to guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are usable but normally basic models lacking a diffuser, notorious for slow air speeds and low heat. Those worried about hygiene might want to remove any grime from previous guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

Guests who are uncertain that a suitable or clean hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer or phone their hotel in Saint Martin to check before travelling.  [2] [AD]

Power converters for Saint Martin

Do you need a converter for Saint Martin to use a hair dryer?

A voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 230 volt power outlet used in Saint Martin. Travellers who want to use their existing hair dryer can use a power converter, but it could be more expensive to purchase a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also, a power converter is substantially heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable for packing compared to a travel hair dryer. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A heavy and bulky power converter will convert the voltage of 230 volts from a St Martins power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, whereas a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet found in Saint Martin. [7] [AD]

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

Instructions showing how to use a hair dryer in Saint Martin with a Type C travel charger.

  1. Please check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 230 volt setting to use in Saint Martin; please refer to the user guide to find out how to do this.
  2. You will need to use a Type C plug adapter [4] if the type of power outlet which is used in Saint Martin won't accomodate the plug shape on your hair dryer. The Type C plug adapter helps fit different plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet used in Saint Martin by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type C plug adapter into the St Martins power outlet. You can identify the wall outlet by the two 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 St Martins power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Saint Martin using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Saint Martin using a type F power adapter

How to power a hair dryer in Saint Martin using a two pronged Type F power adapter.

  1. Please check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't continue because you might 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 230 volt setting to use in Saint Martin, please refer to the manufacturers instructions to find out where this switch is.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Saint Martin you'll need to bring a Type F plug adapter [6]. This Type F plug adapter will adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet found in Saint Martin by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type F plug adapter into the St Martins power outlet. This sunken circular wall outlet, also called the Schuko plug or Type F power outlet [5], can be identified by two circular holes 19 mm next to each other where the live and neutral pins go and a pair of two metal grounding clips above and below.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the St Martins power outlet.
  6. Your hair dryer can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Saint Martin using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Saint Martin entry on wikipedia
  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 F power outlet
  6. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  7. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
  8. Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - The appliance integrates a 1875-watt motor, targeting quick and effective hair drying. The folding handle is intended for easier storage and transport..
  9. X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - This hair dryer boasts a 1600-watt motor intended for efficient hair drying. The long 1.65-meter cable provides an extra layer of convenience for users who require mobility during use..
  10. BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - With dual heat and speed settings, the device aims to cater to a variety of hair types. Its dual voltage capability, folding handle and lightweight design make it suited for international travel..
  11. Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers..
  12. Berta 1875W Folding Hair Dryer Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Negative Ions Travel Dryer - This hair dryer features two speed and heat settings, dual-voltage and a foldable handle whilst equipped with an ALCI plug to help prevent electric shock..
  13. Conair 1875 Watt Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage - This travel-ready hair dryer uses a high 1875-watt motor for efficient and rapid hair drying. Smart voltage technology adjusts to foreign voltage, maintaining heat and speed settings for convenience..
  14. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  15. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  16. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  17. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.