How to use your hair dryer in Latvia

Latvian power outlet

Will my blow dryer work in Latvia?

First check that your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Latvia:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you will only need to use the correct power adapter listed below if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit in the outlet.

If not then you can either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Latvian power outlet, however this is significantly heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter will change the voltage but not the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Latvia, therefore check that the voltage transformer comes with an appropriate power adapter for Latvia otherwise you will also need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Note - your personal 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 Latvia you run the potential risk of a blown fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Prior to using your hair dryer in Latvia read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Latvia

Will my hair dryer work in Latvia?

This will depend on if your hair dryer can operate using the 230 volt power outlets in Latvia. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to handle 230 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you'll be able to use it in Latvia. 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 do you need a voltage converter to use a hair dryer for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Latvia

Choosing the best blow dryer for Latvia

An ALCI safety plug

Choosing the best blow dryer for Latvia

When choosing the best hair dryer for Latvia look for a strong but lightweight dual voltage dryer that operates with a 230 volt Latvian power outlet power outlet, includes a folding handle, long cord and a safety plug. For drying thick hair buy a model with a diffuser that has a faster 1600+ watt dryer.

What should you look for when buying a blow dryer?

  1. The best travel hair dryers for styling should give control of both temperature and speed with 2 options, faster hotter speeds can dry thicker wet hair faster and lower temperatures with slower speeds reduce damage to hair.
  2. It could be cheaper and more convenient to buy a new hair dryer which is supplied with a concentrator and diffuser instead of scouring stores looking for expensive 3rd party attachments which fit the unique dryer barrel size perfectly.
  3. Depending on your accommodation in Latvia you might find they have a mirror installed too far away from a power outlet which makes it hard to style hair, therefore search for the lengthiest power cord possible.
  4. Try to look for a lighter travel dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models with a folding handle will mean more room to pack other items.
  5. Thicker hair could require a travel blow dryer which has a stronger motor. A high wattage ceramic dryer that has a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby avoiding damage.
  6. Safe travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which reduces the danger of overloading the motor that could lead to an electrical fire; these are identified with the 2 test and reset buttons.
  7. The 'cool shot' feature can quickly cool hair down after drying which will hold in the style but this feature could be missing in cheaper dryers.
  8. Your travel hair dryer has to support dual voltage in order to function with a 230 volt Latvian power outlet.
  9. Buying the cheapest dryer is risky; as well as safety concerns there is a greater risk that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to a flimsy construction.
Which is a good compact dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot for Latvia?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with bundled concentrator

Which is a good compact dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot for Latvia?

  • With a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler includes a cool shot button which can be used to rapidly cool down hair.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, a ceramic tourmaline air outlet for negative ions resulting in quicker and safer styling, 2 heat settings, a longer 1.8 metre power cord and includes a concentrator attachment.

Each model is folding, includes an ALCI safety plug which prevents overloading and has dual voltage making them ideal for travel to Latvia in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a Latvian power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good blow dryer for thick hair?

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

Which is the best mini ionic travel hair dryer for Latvia?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle

Which is the best mini ionic travel hair dryer for Latvia?

  • A Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable mini ionic blowdryer available to buy, this 1200 watt ceramic dryer will be most suited for quickly drying fine or thin hair on the go.
  • For a folding hairdryer which is both small and lightweight enough to carry in a purse then the 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that emits infrared heat for a shinier finish this dryer has features which are normally found with larger models.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used with a suitable plug adapter for a Latvian power outlet they should work in Latvia and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried around all day for drying on the go. They have a 1.5m electric power cable, have a two speed motor and include a concentrator attachment.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is a good dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser for Latvia?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

What is a good dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser for Latvia?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65m electric power cable, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but it lacks cool shot.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a lengthy 1.82m electric power cable for more freedom when drying with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter to clean. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it also has a cool shot button making it perfect for drying thicker hair.

Each ionic hair dryer features a concentrator and diffuser with powerful enough motors to make them the best travel blow dryers for thick hair. Both require a cheap plug adapter for Latvia to fit into a Latvian power outlet, they are lightweight and will fold up to fit in a carry-on bag.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best travel hair dryer to buy for Latvia?

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 Latvia 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.

Latvia power outlets and plug sockets

What electrical frequency is used in Latvia?

The frequency of the current used in a Latvian power outlet is 50Hz. [14]

What is the mains voltage in Latvia?

The standard residential voltage used in Latvia is 230 volts.

Which travel adapter will you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Latvia?

Type C and F power outlets

Which travel adapter will you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Latvia?

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

  • Plug Type C - You can identify this wall outlet by two circular adjacent holes.
  • Plug Type F - You can recognise this power outlet by two adjacent holes next to each other and thin metal grounding clips above and below.

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

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can I use my dual voltage hair dryer in Latvia?

  1. Ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer and it will operate with a 230 volt power outlet.
  2. If your hair dryer supports dual voltage please ensure that it is switched to work in the 220-240 volt range. This is normally found on the base or handle of the blow dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to switch.
  3. Plug your hair dryer into the correct power adapter for Latvia, then plug in the power adapter into the Latvian power outlet.
  4. It's normal for most dual voltage hair dryer models operating in the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on a low setting, however the temperature and speed should still be sufficient enough for drying hair. Check the manufacturers guidelines to see if this is appropriate for your model of dryer to avoid the risk of overheating.
  5. The hair dryer can now be used with a Latvian power outlet.

How do I switch a dual voltage hair dryer?

  1. Most dual voltage hair dryers have a switch or dial which toggles between two sets of voltages although some dryers can automatically detect the voltage from a Latvian power outlet.
  2. This dial or switch requires either a small coin or screwdriver to set the hair dryer to the correct voltage between a 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
  3. Also it is worth making a note of the 2 switch positions because the painted numbers can occasionally rub off on some models.
How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer supports dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or handle. The location will vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer, it should also be written on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models can change automatically, however other hair dryer models will have a switch which allows you to toggle between different voltages depending on which country you are visiting.

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

Travelling to Latvia with a hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Latvia?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Latvia?

It will all depend on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and the quality of the room. Hair dryers in hotels are normally found on a bathroom wall, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or could be found in the bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard.

In cheaper hostels, motels and hotels a communal hair dryer might be offered at reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer policy then either telephone the hotel in Latvia or look on the booking web site to find out if a suitable hairdryer available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are usable but are typically basic models with no diffuser and notorious for low heat and slow air speeds. Those concerned with hygiene might want to check for any burnt hair cuticles from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

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

Is it safe to bring my domestic blow dryer to Latvia?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to packing your existing domestic hair dryer to Latvia as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Latvian power outlet (as long as you use the correct power adapter for Latvia). Certain models of travel hair dryer will typically feature a folding handle and will be much lighter which will help in reducing the size and weight in luggage compared to packing a domestic blow dryer.

It is also worth concidering that packing your expensive domestic hair dryer might put it at risk because of potential loss or damage in your suitcase by an airport baggage handler in Latvia. The costs involved in repairing an expensive quality domestic hair dryer in Latvia might be more than purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case beforehand .  [16] [AD]

Is a blowdryer allowed onboard a flight in Latvia?

Folding travel hair dryer

Is a blowdryer allowed onboard a flight in Latvia?

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 the airline who is flying you to Latvia will allow hair dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing the hair 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 will avoid a tangle of power wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cables tightly around electronic items such as hair dryers). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the greatest protection against knocks and drops during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Power converters for Latvia

What is the difference between a power adapter and a power converter for Latvia?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a power adapter and a power converter for Latvia?

An expensive and heavy power converter will convert a 230 volt Latvian power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, whereas a more lightweight and cheaper power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in Latvia. [7] [AD]

Do you need a power converter for Latvia to use your hair dryer?

The correct model of voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 230 volt power outlet used in Latvia. Travellers who want to use their own domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, but it can be considerably cheaper to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to buy a power converter. Also worth noting, a travel hair dryer can be considerably lighter and smaller than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for packing in luggage. [7] [AD]

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

Instructions showing how to power a hair dryer in Latvia with a Type C power charger.

  1. Ensure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply - but if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions because you may damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage blow dryers usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer make sure you have set it to accept 230 volts, refer to the instructions for more details on how to do this.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet which is used in Latvia you'll need to use a Type C plug adapter [4]. The Type C plug adapter helps convert plugs on appliances from other countries for use with an electrical outlet found in Latvia simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Plug in the Type C plug adapter in the wall outlet. This power outlet can be identified by two circular holes adjacent to each other.
  4. Next plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Latvian power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be switched on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Latvia using a type C power adapter

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

Instructions showing how to power a hair dryer in Latvia by using a Type F power charger.

  1. Make sure that the 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 proceed because you may damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage blow dryers usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer make sure you have set it to accept 230 volts to use in Latvia, refer to the instructions for more details on how to do this.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet which is used in Latvia you'll need to buy a Type F plug adapter [6]. The power adapter will convert plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet used in Latvia simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Start the process by inserting the Type F plug adapter in the wall outlet. You can recognise the power supply by two adjacent holes next to each other and metal grounding clips above and below.
  4. Next plug in the hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Latvian power outlet. The hair dryer can now be switched on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Latvia using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Latvia Wikipedia web 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 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. 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. 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.