Which travel adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in France?

French power outlet

Will my hairdryer work in France?

Check that your hair dryer can work in France:

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 French power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter changes the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in France, therefore check that your voltage transformer comes with the correct power adapter for France otherwise you will still need to bring a seperate power adapter. Be aware that your domestic hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you risk potential damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts used in France you run a risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or a blown fuse. Prior to using your hair dryer in France please read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in France

Will my hair dryer work in France?

That will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 230 volts as used in France. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can handle 230 volts and you have the correct power adapter then you can use it in France. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter, read our guide on will a voltage converter work with your hair dryer in France for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for France

How to choose the best travel blow dryer

A hair dryer cool shot button

How to choose the best travel blow dryer

When choosing the best hair dryer look for a robust but lightweight dual-voltage model that will work with a 230 volt French power outlet power outlet, includes a long power cord, an ALCI safety plug and folding handle. For drying thicker hair look for a dryer with a faster 1600+ watt motor and bundled diffuser.

Nine tips for purchasing a travel blow dryer

  1. Some hotel rooms might have a mirror positioned too far away from the nearest outlet which could make it cumbersome to style hair, so when buying a travel blow dryer shop for the unit with the lengthiest power cord possible.
  2. It could be more convenient buying a hair dryer that is supplied with a diffuser and concentrator rather than scouring stores to look for expensive third party attachments to fit the unique barrel size securely.
  3. Thicker or curlier hair may require a blow dryer which has a more powerful motor. A higher wattage ceramic dryer which has a diffuser will dry hair much faster to prevent damage.
  4. The safest travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will reduce the danger of the motor overloading leading to starting a fire; these are identified with the 2 'test' and 'reset' buttons.
  5. Ideal travel hair dryers will give control of the temperature and speed settings with different options, slower speeds with lower temperatures reduce damage to your hair whereas hotter faster speeds will quickly dry wet hair.
  6. You shouldn't risk getting the cheapest travel dryer available; as well as safety issues there is also a greater risk that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to cheaper components.
  7. Try looking for a lightweight travel dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models which have a handle which folds will mean more space.
  8. Your hair dryer has to be dual voltage in order to operate with a 230 volt French power outlet.
  9. A cool shot feature on a modern hair dryer can rapidly cool hair down after drying to hold in a style but this feature might be lacking in cheaper dryers.
What is a good folding travel hair dryer?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with bundled concentrator

What is a good folding travel hair dryer?

  • The Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and includes a cool shot setting that can be used to quickly cool down hair.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot setting, a ceramic tourmaline outlet for negative ions meaning safer and faster drying, 2 heat settings, a longer 1.8m power cord and also includes a concentrator attachment.

Both models fold, include an ALCI safety plug to prevent power overloads and has dual voltage making both ideal for visiting France in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a French power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is a good hair dryer for thick hair?

Thick hair will take longer to dry and can be hard to dry without the hair going frizzy, the best option for thick hair is an ionic hair dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly. Both an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic are recommended because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers - avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage for France?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium

What is the best mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage for France?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable small ionic blow dryer available on the market, this ceramic 1200 watt dryer will be best suited for quickly drying thin and fine hair on the go.
  • For a blow dryer which is compact enough to carry in a handbag then the 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage this dryer manages to incorporate options which are typically reserved for larger hairdryers.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used along with the right power adapter for a French power outlet they should work in France folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried around during the day for styling on the go. They have a 1.5 metre electric power cord, have a twin speed motor and include a concentrator attachment.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is the best travel hair dryer with a diffuser?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

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 cable, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser but it is missing a cool shot feature.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a generous 1.82m power cable for greater freedom when drying with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter to clean easily. It also utilises a strong 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it perfect for styling thicker hair.

Each ionic hair dryer includes a diffuser and concentrator with strong enough motors to make them the best hair dryers suitable for thick hair. They are both lightweight and fold up to pack into carry-on luggage, only requiring a suitable plug adapter for France to work with a French power outlet.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

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

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 France 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.

France power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in France?

The typical residential voltage in France is 230 volts.

What is the electrical frequency used in France?

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

Which plug adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in France?

Type C and E power outlets

Which plug adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in France?

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

  • Plug Type C - This unearthed power outlet is identified by the 2 circular adjacent holes where the plug socket pins slide into.
  • Plug Type E - The sunken round power outlet, technically called the CEE 7/7 socket, can be identified by the two 4.8mm round holes 19mm apart from each other where the twin plug socket pins slide into plus one long metal grounding pin protruding the top to form a triangle pattern.

A suitable travel adapter to bring to use a 230 volt hair dryer in France is a Type E plug adapter; read the simple instructions below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in France using a power adapter. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to bring a power converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

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 toggles between 2 voltages although some hair dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from a French power outlet.
  2. The dial or switch typically requires a coin or screwdriver to change the hair dryer to the right voltage between the 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
  3. In addition to switching this it's worth noting down both switch positions because the painted numbers can sometimes rub off on some models of travel dryer.

How do you use your dual voltage hair dryer in France?

  1. Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it will operate with a 230 volt power outlet.
  2. If the hair dryer is dual voltage then ensure it is switched to work in the 220-240v range. This is usually found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to turn.
  3. Plug your dryer into the correct power adapter for France and then plug in the power adapter into the French power outlet.
  4. It is common on most travel hair dryer models operating within the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on their lowest setting, but the speed should still be sufficient for drying hair. Please check the manufacturers 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 France.
How can you tell if your hair dryer is dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

How can you tell if your hair dryer is 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 handle, base or the plug. This location will depend on the make or model of your hair dryer, it could also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage hair dryers can change automatically but other hair dryer models will feature a button or switch which allows you to toggle between different voltage ranges depending on which country you are in.

  • Single voltage could say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in France then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a French power outlet.
  • Single voltage might also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 230 volts used in a French power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in France.
  • Dual voltage will say a larger voltage range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in France or any other country if these numbers are shown.

Travelling to France with a hair dryer

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

Hotel hair dryer

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

It depends on the individual hotel and the class of the room. 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 drawer, wardrobe or cupboard. When staying in budget hostels, hotels and motels a communal hair dryer could be available at reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer availability you can either check on the booking web site or call ahead to the hotel in France to find out what type of hairdryer is available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but are normally basic models lacking a diffuser, notorious for slower air speeds and low heat. Those concerned with hygiene should check for grime from previous guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

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

Is a blow dryer allowed on a flight to France?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Is a blow dryer allowed on a flight to France?

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 United States. The TSA recommends that you should check that the airline that is flying you to France 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 for 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 bring hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against knocks and drops during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Is it safe to bring my domestic hair dryer to France?

Packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to bringing your existing blow dryer to France (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a French power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for France). A travel hair dryer will typically feature a collapsing handle and will be lighter, this will help reduce the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer. Be aware that packing an expensive domestic hair dryer could put it at risk due to potential loss or damage in your luggage by airport baggage handlers. The cost and inconvenience of repairing an expensive specialised domestic blow dryer in France might overshadow the costs of purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [17] [AD]

Power converters for France

What is the difference between a voltage converter and a power adapter?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a voltage converter and a power adapter?

A lightweight, small and cheap power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in France, however an expensive and bulkier power converter will convert a 230 volt French power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

Do I need a voltage converter to use a hair dryer in France?

The correct model of power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 230 volt power outlet used in France. A power converter is more suitable for travellers who wish to use their existing domestic hair dryer, however it can be more expensive to buy a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be significantly smaller and lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for travelling. [7] [AD]

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

How to use a hair dryer in France using a Type C travel charger.

  1. Check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet - if not then do not proceed as you might create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Some dual voltage blow dryers will typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 230 volt setting to use in France - consult the owners manual to find out where this switch is.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in France you will need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4]. This plug adapter will help fit different plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet found in France by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Begin the process by plugging the Type C plug adapter into the power outlet. This unearthed power outlet is identified by the 2 circular holes next to each other where the two plug outlet pins sit.
  4. Then plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the French power outlet.
  6. You can now turn on your blow dryer for use in France. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in France using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in France using a type E power adapter

How to power your hair dryer in France with a Type E travel charger.

  1. Please check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply but if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions because you might create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer make sure the switch is set to accept 230 volts; please refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on how to do this.
  2. You will need to use a Type E plug adapter [6] if the type of power outlet used in France isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair dryer. The power adapter will help fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet in France 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 230 volt supply.
  3. Insert the Type E plug adapter into the power outlet. You can recognise this power supply by the two 4.8mm round adjacent holes for live and neutral pins and a single metal earth pin protruding in the top in a triangular configuration.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type E plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the French power outlet.
  6. Your hair dryer should now be ready to use. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in France using a type E power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - French country wikipedia page
  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 E power outlet
  6. Type E plug adapter - A CEE 7/5 socket and CEE 7/6 plug compliant Type E adapter designed with a focus on safety, featuring two round pins and an earthing hole. Ideal for use in the France, Belgium, Poland and several African nations..
  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. 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..
  9. 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..
  10. 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..
  11. 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..
  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. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  17. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.