How do I use a hair dryer in Dominica?

Dominicand power outlet

Can I use my hair dryer in Dominica?

Check your hair dryer can work in Dominica:

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

If not then you can either:

Buy a travel hair dryer for Dominica
  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Dominicand power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but not the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Dominica, therefore check that your power converter has an appropriate power adapter for Dominica otherwise you will still need to bring another power adapter. Be aware that your own existing hair dryer might not be suited for travel and you risk damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle the 230 volts used in Dominica you run a risk of blowing a fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Before attempting to use your hair dryer in Dominica please read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Dominica

Will my hair dryer work in Dominica?

This will depend on if your hair dryer can handle the 230 volts as used in Dominica. 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 should be able to use it in Dominica. 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 the guide on will a power converter work with your domestic hair dryer in Dominica for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Can I use my American hair dryer in Dominica?

The guides on this page assume that you're an America reader travelling to Dominica and will provide guidance for using your US hair dryer with a Dominicand power outlet.

Best travel hair dryers for Dominica

Choosing the best hair dryer

A dual voltage switch on a travel hair dryer

Choosing the best hair dryer

When looking for the best hair dryer choose a robust but lightweight dual voltage model which will operate with a 230 volt Dominicand power outlet power outlet, includes an ALCI safety plug, a folding handle and a long power cord. If drying thicker hair look for a faster 1600+ watt motor and included diffuser.

What should I look for when purchasing a travel hair dryer?

  1. The best travel hair dryers let you to alter the speed and temperature settings with different options; a lower temperature with a slower speed should prevent damage to your hair whilst a hotter faster speed will dry hair quicker.
  2. Look for lighter travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers with a handle which folds mean more space to pack other items.
  3. Instead of scouring stores looking for more expensive third party attachments which fit the barrel securely it could be cheaper and more convenient to buy a new dryer that includes a diffuser and a concentrator from the manufacturer.
  4. Some hotel rooms in Dominica might have a wall mirror installed too far away from a convenient outlet which makes it hard to dry hair, so look for the model with the lengthiest power cord possible.
  5. Modern travel dryers could include a cool shot option for rapidly cooling down the hair after drying to hold a style but this option could be missing in smaller models.
  6. To operate in Dominica a travel hair dryer has to support dual voltage.
  7. Curlier or thicker hair might need a hair dryer with a more powerful motor - a higher wattage ceramic dryer that has a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby avoiding damage.
  8. Safe travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will reduce the risk of overloading leading to starting an electrical fire, you can idenfity these with test and reset switches found on the plug.
  9. Buying the cheapest dryer available might be risky, as well as safety concerns there is a greater risk that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to cheaper parts.

Which is a good hair dryer for thick curly hair?

Thick hair takes longer to dry and will be difficult to do so without the hair going frizzy, so the best option will be an ionic hair dryer, if the hair is curly use a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are recommended because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good folding dual voltage hair dryer for Dominica?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with attached concentrator

Which is a good folding dual voltage hair dryer for Dominica?

  • A Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and features a cool shot button which can be used to quickly cool hair down which gives it a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot button, a tourmaline ceramic outlet resulting in quicker and safer styling, twin heat settings, a longer 1.8 metre power cable and also comes with a concentrator attachment.

Each model folds, has an ALCI safety plug which prevents power overloads and has dual voltage making them ideal for travel to Dominica in carry on luggage when used along with a power adapter for a Dominicand power outlet.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Which is the smallest dual voltage hair dryer for Dominica?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium travel hair dryer

Which is the smallest dual voltage hair dryer for Dominica?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the best value small ionic hair dryer available on the market, the ceramic 1200 watt dryer is most suited for quickly drying fine or thin hair on the go.
  • The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is compact enough to transport in a purse due to it's 10.5 ounce body with folding handle and has options found on larger hair dryers such as a removable filter and a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect from heat damage which results in a glossier finish.

Both of these mini hair dryers support dual voltage when used with a suitable power adapter for a Dominicand power outlet they should work in Dominica and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried for styling on the go. Both have a 1.5 metre electric power cable, have a two speed motor and include a concentrator attachment.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is a good dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser attachment?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

What is a good dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser attachment?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65 metre electric power cable, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser but it lacks cool shot.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a long 1.82m electric power cord for greater flexibility when styling with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter to clean easily. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it also has cool shot making it more suited for styling thick hair.

Both ionic travel hair dryers include a concentrator and diffuser with powerful enough motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. Each hair dryer is light and folds up to pack in carry-on baggage, only requiring a power adapter for Dominica to fit into a Dominicand power outlet.  [8] [9] [9] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best travel hair dryer for Dominica?

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 Dominica 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.

Dominica power outlets and plug sockets

What is the electrical frequency used in Dominica?

The frequency of the current from a Dominicand power outlet is 50Hz. [14]

What is the mains voltage in Dominica?

Power outlets in Dominica are 230 volts.

Which travel adapter will you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Dominica?

Type D and G power outlets

Which travel adapter will you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Dominica?

There are two types of power outlets used in Dominica, these are type G and D with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type D - The plug socket, also called a type D power outlet, can be recognised by the three round holes forming a triangle configuration for live, neutral and ground.
  • Plug Type G - The plug socket, also called a type G power outlet, can be recognised by the three vertical slots containing shutters forming a triangular pattern.

A recommended travel adapter to bring when using a 230 volt hair dryer in Dominica is a Type G plug adapter - read the step by step guide below for full details of how to use a plug adapter for Dominica. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to use a power converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Plug adapters for Dominica

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can I use a dual voltage hair dryer in Dominica?

  1. First ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or that it will operate with a 230 volt power socket.
  2. If the dryer supports dual voltage please ensure that it is set to the 220-240 volt range. This is usually found on the handle or base of the hair dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to turn.
  3. Plug the dryer into the power adapter for Dominica, then plug in the power adapter into the Dominicand power outlet.
  4. It's common on most dual voltage hair dryer models operating in the 220-240v range to only work safely on their lowest speed setting, but this temperature should be sufficient enough for drying hair. Always check the hair dryer guidelines to see if this is appropriate for your model of dual voltage hair dryer to prevent the risk of overheating.
  5. Your dryer is now ready to operate with a Dominicand power outlet.

How do I switch a travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which selects between 2 sets of voltages although some brands can automatically detect the voltage from a Dominicand power outlet.
  2. This dial or switch will normally require either a screwdriver or coin to change the dryer to the correct voltage between the 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
  3. In addition to changing this over it is worth noting down the two switch positions as the painted numbers can sometimes fade on certain models.
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?

A simple way to tell if your hair dryer will accept a dual voltage outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the base, handle or the plug. The location might depend on the make and model of your hair dryer, it could also state on the box. Some dual voltage hair dryers will change automatically but other hair dryer models will have a switch which allows you to toggle between different voltages.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Dominica then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Dominicand 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 Dominicand power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Dominica.
  • A large range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Dominica or any other country.

Travelling to Dominica with a hair dryer

Should I bring a travel hair dryer or domestic blow dryer to Dominica?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to packing your existing domestic hair dryer to Dominica as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Dominicand power outlet (provided that you bring the correct plug adapter for Dominica). A travel hair dryer will normally feature a folding handle and will be much lighter which will help in reducing the size and weight in luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer.

Be aware that bringing an expensive domestic blow dryer might put it at risk due to potential damage or loss in your suitcase by a baggage handlers in Dominica. The cost and inconvenience involved in repairing or replacing an expensive specialised blow dryer in Dominica might be higher than purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case beforehand .  [16] [AD]

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Dominica?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Dominica?

It will all depend on the hotel and the quality of the room. Hotel room hair dryers are typically found in the bathroom, these could be a slower air hose variety, or could be found in the bedroom drawer, cupboard or wardrobe.

In cheaper motels, hostels and hotels a communal hair dryer might be offered at the reception but that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt as to hotel hairdryer availability then either check on the hotel web site or call ahead to the hotel in Dominica to find out what is available for guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are adequate but normally basic models with no diffuser, notorious for low heat and slow air speeds. For those concerned with hygiene might want to check for the grime from other guests on a shared hair dryer as the hotel 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 Dominica or use a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Can blow dryers go in your carry on hand luggage to Dominica?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can blow dryers go in your carry on hand luggage to Dominica?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA also recommends that you should verify that your airline which is taking you to Dominica will allow a hair dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft.

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

Power converters for Dominica

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

Voltage converter

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

A lightweight, small and cheap power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet found in Dominica, however a heavy and bulkier power converter transforms the voltage of 230 volts from a Dominicand power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

Do I need a power converter for Dominica to use my hair dryer?

The correct model of voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 230 volt power outlet used in Dominica. Travellers wishing to use their own domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, but it might be more expensive to purchase a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. A power converter is substantially bulkier and heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable when travelling. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Dominica using a type D power adapter

How to use your hair dryer in Dominica by using a Type D power charger.

  1. Check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply 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. Travel hair dryers usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer make sure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting for use in Dominica, please consult the user guide for more details on how to do this.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Dominica you will need to bring a Type D plug adapter [4]. The power adapter will convert plugs from other countries for a power outlet in Dominica by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Firstly you'll need to insert the Type D plug adapter in the wall outlet. This plug outlet, technically known as a Type D power outlet [3], can be recognised by the three round holes in a triangle configuration for live, neutral and ground pins.
  4. Next plug in the hair dryer into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Dominicand power outlet.
  6. You can now turn on your hair dryer to use in Dominica. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Dominica using a type D power adapter

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

How to use a hair dryer in Dominica by using a Type G travel adapter.

  1. Please make sure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet; but if it doesn't then do not proceed because you may blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages make sure you have set it to accept 230 volts to use in Dominica; refer to the owners manual to find out where the switch is located.
  2. You will need to buy a Type G plug adapter [6] if the shape of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same type of plug outlet used in Dominica. This Type G plug adapter is designed to fit plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet used in Dominica simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Start the process by plugging the Type G plug adapter in the Dominicand power outlet. You can recognise the plug supply by 3 rectangular holes in a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth pins.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Dominicand power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be used in Dominica. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Dominica using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Dominica country Wikipedia page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type D power outlet
  4. Type D plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type D electrical adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka..
  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. X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - This hair dryer boasts a 1600-watt motor intended for efficient hair drying. The long 1.65-meter cable provides an extra layer of convenience for users who require mobility during use..
  9. Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - The appliance integrates a 1875-watt motor, targeting quick and effective hair drying. The folding handle is intended for easier storage and transport..
  10. 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. 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..
  13. 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..
  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.