Using your hair dryer in Scotland

Scottish power outlet

Will my blow dryer work in Scotland?

Check that your hair dryer can work in Scotland:

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 Scottish power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but won't change the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Scotland, so check that your power converter includes a suitable power adapter for Scotland otherwise you will still need to bring a seperate power adapter. Also worth noting that your own existing hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you risk damage in your luggage. [5] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle the 230 volts used in Scotland you run a risk of an electrical fire hazard, a blown fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Prior to using your hair dryer in Scotland please read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Scotland

Will my hair dryer work in Scotland?

This depends on if your hair dryer can operate using the 230 volt power outlets in Scotland. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to operate using 230 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you can use it in Scotland. If not then you will need to consider buying either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Read the guide on will a power converter work with a domestic hair dryer in Scotland for help deciding which option is more suitable. [5] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Scotland

Choosing the best hair dryer for Scotland

Bundled diffuser and concentrator attachments

Choosing the best hair dryer for Scotland

When looking for the best hair dryer for Scotland choose a sturdy but lightweight dual-voltage dryer which operates with a 230 volt Scottish power outlet power outlet with a folding handle, long power cord and an ALCI safety plug. For drying thicker hair look for a model which includes a bundled diffuser that has a stronger 1600+ watt motor.

9 tips for purchasing a travel hair dryer

  1. Look for a lighter travel dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers with folding handles mean more space.
  2. Ideal travel hair dryers for styling give control of the temperature and speed with low and high options; lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to hair whereas hotter faster speeds will quickly dry thicker wet hair.
  3. The 'cool shot' option on a modern blow dryer can rapidly cool down the hair after drying which will hold in a style but this feature lacks in smaller or cheaper models.
  4. In order to operate with a 230 volt Scottish power outlet a hair dryer has to be dual voltage.
  5. Rather than looking for expensive third party attachments it might be cheaper and more convenient purchasing a hair dryer that is supplied with both a concentrator and a diffuser.
  6. Don't risk buying the cheapest travel dryer on the market; as well as concerns with safety there is also a greater risk that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to cheaper parts.
  7. Depending on the accommodation there might be a mirror positioned too far away from a power outlet making it hard to style hair, so find the unit with the longest power cord possible or pack either a hand mirror or extension cable.
  8. Curlier or thicker hair may require a hair dryer with a stronger motor; a higher wattage ceramic dryer which includes a diffuser will dry hair faster to avoid damage.
  9. The safest travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will minimise the danger of overloading and starting a fire, models can be recognised by 'test' and 'reset' buttons on the plug.
What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer?

The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle

What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable small ionic hairdryer available to buy, the ceramic 1200 watt dryer will be suited for quickly drying thin or fine hair whilst on the go.
  • For a blow dryer which is small enough to transport in a purse then a 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that emits infrared heat for a glossy finish this dryer manages to include options which are typically found on bulkier hairdryers.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used along with a suitable plug adapter for a Scottish power outlet they will work in Scotland folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried around during the day for drying on the go. They include a concentrator, have 1.5 metre electric power cords and have a 2 speed motor.  [6] [6] [7] [AD]

Which is a good dual voltage hair dryer with a diffuser for Scotland?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

Which is a good dual voltage hair dryer with a diffuser for Scotland?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65m power cable, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however lacks a cool shot option.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a longer 1.82 metre electric power cord for greater freedom when styling with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter for cleaning. It utilises a strong 1875 watt motor including a cool shot option making it more suited for drying thicker hair.

Both ionic hair dryers include a concentrator and diffuser with powerful motors to make them the best blow dryers for thick hair. Each hair dryer is lightweight and folds up to fit in carry-on luggage and only require a cheap plug adapter for Scotland to work with a Scottish power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is a good blow dryer for thick curly hair?

Thicker hair will take longer to dry and will be hard to dry without your hair going frizzy. The best option will be an ionic blow dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer will be suitable because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [8] [9] [AD]

What is a good folding dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot for Scotland?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with bundled concentrator

What is a good folding dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot for Scotland?

  • With a strong twin speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features cool shot that can be used to quickly cool down hair to give a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot setting, a tourmaline ceramic air outlet resulting in quicker and safer styling, twin heat options, a longer 1.8 metre power cable and comes with a concentrator attachment.

Each model folds, includes an ALCI power plug to prevent power overloads and has dual voltage making both perfect for travel to Scotland in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for a Scottish power outlet.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel blow dryer for Scotland?

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 Scotland 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.

Scotland power outlets and plug sockets

What frequency is used in a Scottish power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current in a Scottish power outlet is 50Hz. [12]

What mains voltage is used in Scotland?

The common residential voltage in Scotland is 230 volts.

Which power adapter will you need for using a hair dryer in Scotland?

Type G power outlets are used in Scotland. You can identify the wall outlet by the three vertical holes with shutters in a triangular pattern for live, neutral and ground pins. A Type G power adapter allows you to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Scotland, read the step by step instructions below for full details of how to use a travel adapter for Scotland. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to bring a power converter.  [4] [13] [AD]

Which power adapter will you need for using a hair dryer in Scotland?

Dual voltage hair dryers

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

  1. Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and it works with a 230 volt power socket.
  2. If the hair dryer is dual voltage please ensure it is switched to work in the 220-240 volt range. The switch is normally found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to switch.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the power adapter for Scotland and then plug in the power adapter into the Scottish power outlet.
  4. It is common on a majority of dual voltage hair dryers operating within the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on their lowest setting, however this speed and temperature should still be adequate enough for drying hair. Please check the manufacturers instructions to see if this is applicable for your model of hair dryer to prevent overheating.
  5. The hair dryer is now ready to be used in Scotland.

How do I switch the voltage on a travel hair dryer?

  1. Most brands of dual voltage hair dryers have some type of switch which changes between 2 voltages however some models can automatically detect the voltage used in Scotland.
  2. The dial or switch needs either a screwdriver or coin to set the dryer to the correct voltage between the 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
  3. As well as changing this it's worth making a note of the 2 switch positions as the painted numbers can occasionally rub off on some 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?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer will handle a dual voltage power outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or the handle. This location will vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer and should also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models will change automatically, however other hair dryer models will feature a button which allows you to toggle between different voltage ranges.

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

Travelling to Scotland with a hair dryer

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

Bringing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing an existing blow dryer to Scotland as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Scottish power outlet (as long as you use the correct plug adapter for Scotland). Travel hair dryers typically feature a collapsing handle and will be lighter which helps in reducing the size and weight when packed in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer. It is also worth bearing in mind that bringing an expensive domestic hair dryer could put it at risk due to potential loss or damage in your luggage by an airline baggage handler. The cost and inconvenience of replacing an expensive quality hair dryer in Scotland could be more than buying a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case .  [14] [AD]

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

Hotel hair dryer

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

It will all depend on the hotel or bed and breakfast and the quality of the room. Hotel room hair dryers are typically found on a bathroom wall unit, these could be a slower air hose variety, or could be located in a bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard. In cheaper motels, hotels and hostels a shared hair dryer might be offered at the reception but could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer availability then either call ahead to your hotel in Scotland or look on the hotel web site to find out what type of hairdryer is available for guests. Hair dryers in hotels are usable but typically basic models lacking a diffuser, notorious for low heat and providing slow air speeds. For those worried about hygiene might want to check for grime from other guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

For travellers who don't want to take a chance that a suitable and clean hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer or call ahead to the hotel in Scotland to check before travelling.  [2] [AD]

Can I pack a hair dryer in my carry on luggage to Scotland?

Folding travel hair dryer

Can I pack a hair dryer in my carry on luggage to Scotland?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also suggests that you should check that the airline which is flying you to Scotland will allow a blow dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing your hair 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 and will avoid a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests 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 advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against drops and knocks during transit.   [14] [15] [16] [AD]

Power converters for Scotland

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

Voltage converter

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

A lightweight, cheap and small power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in Scotland, but a heavy and bulkier power converter converts the voltage of 230 volts from a Scottish power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer. [5] [AD]

Can I use my hair dryer with a voltage converter for Scotland?

A suitable power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 230 volt power outlet used in Scotland. A power converter is suitable for travellers wishing to use their existing hair dryer, 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 worth noting, a power converter is considerably bulkier and heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suited for packing. [5] [AD]

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

A guide showing how to use your hair dryer in Scotland with a three pinned Type G power adapter.

  1. Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply - if not then don't continue because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Some dual voltage blow dryers will typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure the switch is set to accept 230 volts, consult the instructions for more information on where this switch is.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Scotland you'll need to buy a Type G plug adapter [4]. The Type G plug adapter helps fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet used in Scotland simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Begin the process by taking the Type G plug adapter and plugging it into the wall outlet. You can recognise the wall outlet by the three holes with shutters in a triangular shape.
  4. Then plug in your hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Scottish power outlet. The hair dryer is ready to be turned on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Scotland using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Scottish Wikipedia web page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  4. 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..
  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. 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..
  7. 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..
  8. Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - The appliance integrates a 1875-watt motor, targeting quick and effective hair drying. The folding handle is intended for easier storage and transport..
  9. X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - This hair dryer boasts a 1600-watt motor intended for efficient hair drying. The long 1.65-meter cable provides an extra layer of convenience for users who require mobility during use..
  10. 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. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  15. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  16. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.