Using a hair dryer in Paraguay

Paraguayan power outlet

Can I use my hair dryer in Paraguay?

First check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Paraguay:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 220 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 220 volt Paraguayan 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 Paraguay, therefore please check that your voltage transformer has a power adapter for Paraguay 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. [5] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 220 volts used in Paraguay you run a risk of an electrical fire hazard, a blown fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Before using your hair dryer in Paraguay read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Paraguay

Will my hair dryer work in Paraguay?

That will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to handle the 220 volt power outlets used in Paraguay. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to handle 220 volts and you have the correct power adapter then you can use the hair dryer in Paraguay. 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. [5] [AD]

Will my American hair dryer work in Paraguay?

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

Best travel hair dryers for Paraguay

What to look for when choosing a hair dryer for Paraguay

An ALCI safety plug

What to look for when choosing a hair dryer for Paraguay

When looking for the best hair dryer for Paraguay choose a robust but lightweight dual-voltage model that will operate with a 220 volt Paraguayan 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. 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.
  2. To function in Paraguay your hair dryer needs to support dual voltage.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
What is the best travel ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment for Paraguay?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

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

  • 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 Paraguay to work with a Paraguayan power outlet, each dryer is lightweight and folds up to pack into a carry-on travel bag.  [6] [6] [7] [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.
  • 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 Paraguayan power outlet they will work in Paraguay 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.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

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

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with bundled concentrator

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

  • 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 Paraguay in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a Paraguayan power outlet.  [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.  [6] [7] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best hair dryer for Paraguay?

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 Paraguay 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.

Paraguay power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Paraguay?

Power outlets in Paraguay are 220 volts.

What frequency is used in a Paraguayan power outlet?

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

Which power adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in Paraguay?

Type C power outlet

Which power adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in Paraguay?

Type C power outlets are used in Paraguay. You can identify the power outlet by the two round adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral. A Type C plug adapter allows you to use a 220 volt hair dryer in Paraguay - read the step-by-step guide below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Paraguay with a plug adapter. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to bring a voltage converter.  [4] [13] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Single 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 220 volts used in Paraguay then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Paraguayan 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 220 volts used in a Paraguayan power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Paraguay.
  • A large voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Paraguay or any other country.

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 Paraguayan 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.

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

  1. Check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it will work with a 220 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 Paraguay and then plug in the power adapter into the Paraguayan 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 Paraguayan power outlet.

Travelling to Paraguay with a hair dryer

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 Paraguay 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.   [14] [15] [16] [AD]

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

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to bringing your existing domestic hair dryer to Paraguay as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Paraguayan power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Paraguay). 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 Paraguay 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 .  [15] [AD]

Do hotel rooms in Paraguay have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Paraguay 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 Paraguay 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 Paraguay to check before travelling.  [2] [AD]

Power converters for Paraguay

Do you need a converter for Paraguay to use a hair dryer?

A voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 220 volt power outlet used in Paraguay. 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. [5] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A heavy and bulky power converter will convert the voltage of 220 volts from a Paraguayan power outlet to work with a non-220 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 Paraguay. [5] [AD]

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

Instructions showing how to use a hair dryer in Paraguay using a 2 pronged Type C travel charger.

  1. Please check that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 220 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 ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting to use in Paraguay, please refer to the user guide to find out where this switch is.
  2. If the type of power outlet used in Paraguay doesn't accomodate the plug shape on your hair dryer you will need to use a Type C plug adapter [4]. The Type C plug adapter will fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet used in Paraguay by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type C plug adapter into the Paraguayan power outlet. You can identify the wall outlet by the two adjacent holes next to each other where the live and neutral pins slide into.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Paraguayan power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Paraguay using a type C power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia web page about Paraguay
  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. 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. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  15. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  16. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.