How do I use a hair dryer in The Cayman Islands?
Can I use my hair dryer in The Cayman Islands?
Check that your hair dryer can handle the voltage in The Cayman Islands:
- If your hair dryer can run on 120 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you'll only need to use the correct power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit.
If not then either:
- Use a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] - you could need the right power adapter for The Cayman Islands but these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for travelling. Read the comprehensive recommendations for the best blow driers which will work in a Cayman Islands power outlet, along with nine tips for purchasing a new blow dryer and a comparison table of six of the best travel blow dryers to buy in 2023.
- Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 120 volt Cayman Islands power outlet, however this is substantially heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter changes the voltage but won't change the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of power outlet used in The Cayman Islands, therefore please check that your voltage transformer includes an appropriate power adapter for The Cayman Islands otherwise you will also need to bring another power adapter. Also worth noting that your domestic hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you risk potential damage in your suitcase. [7] [AD]
Using a hair dryer in The Cayman Islands
Will my hair dryer work in The Cayman Islands?
This will depend on if your hair dryer can handle the 120 volt power outlets in The Cayman Islands:
- If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to operate using 120 volts and you have the correct plug adapter then you'll be able to use the hair dryer in The Cayman Islands.
- If not then then you will need to consider purchasing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Read our guide on will a power converter work with a hair dryer in The Cayman Islands for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]
Best travel hair dryers for The Cayman Islands
A dual voltage switch on a travel hair dryer
What to look for when buying a blow dryer
When choosing the best travel hair dryer for The Cayman Islands look for a strong but light dual-voltage model which will operate with a 120 volt Cayman Islands power outlet power outlet, includes a folding handle, a safety plug and a long cable. If drying thicker hair look for one with a diffuser that has a stronger 1600+ watt motor.
Things to look for when purchasing a blow dryer
- Suitable hair dryers for styling will give control of the speed and temperature with two options, a hotter faster speed will dry wet hair faster whilst a lower temperature with a slower speed should prevent damage to your hair.
- Try to look for a lightweight travel hair dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, dryers which have a handle which folds mean more room.
- It might be more convenient to buy a new dryer that is supplied with both a concentrator and diffuser instead of scouring shops to look for expensive 3rd party attachments which fit the unique barrel exactly.
- Hotel rooms might have a fixed mirror positioned too far away from a power outlet which could make it cumbersome to style hair, so when buying a blow dryer look for a unit with the longest power cord possible.
- Modern blow dryers could include a cool shot button for quickly cooling hair down after drying to hold in the style but this option lacks in smaller models.
- If you have thicker or curlier hair then you might require a travel hair dryer which has a more powerful motor - a high wattage ceramic dryer which includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby preventing damage.
- In order to work in The Cayman Islands the travel hair dryer has to be dual voltage.
- Safe travel hair dryers will include an ALCI safety plug which reduces the danger of the motor overloading that could start fires; these can be recognised by the two test and reset buttons found on the plug.
- Don't be tempted to just get the cheapest travel hair dryer available; as well as safety issues there is a greater chance that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to cheaper components.
What is the best blow dryer for thick hair?
Thicker hair takes longer to dry and will be difficult to dry without hair turning frizzy. The best option is an ionic hair dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly without frizz. Either an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic will be suitable because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough. [8] [9] [AD]
Berta Folding Hair Dryer with attached concentrator
What is the best folding dual voltage travel hair dryer for The Cayman Islands?
- The Conair Compact Styler has a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and features a cool shot setting which can will quickly cool down hair.
- The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot button, a tourmaline ceramic air outlet for negative ions meaning faster and safer drying, twin heat settings, a longer 1.8m electric power cord and comes with a concentrator attachment.
Each model folds, has an ALCI plug to prevent power overloads and support dual voltage making them ideal for visiting The Cayman Islands in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for a Cayman Islands power outlet. [10] [10] [11] [AD]
BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator
Which is a good mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage?
- For drying fine or thin hair on the go the 1200 watt ceramic Conair MiniPRO is the cheapest mini ionic blow dryer available to buy.
- For a folding blow dryer which is small enough to carry in a purse then a 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat to protect from heat damage this dryer manages to include options normally reserved for bulkier hairdryers.
Both mini hair dryers are dual voltage and when used with a suitable plug adapter for a Cayman Islands power outlet they should work in The Cayman Islands folding conveniently enough to be carried around all day for drying on the go. They include a concentrator attachment, have 1.5 metre power cords and have a 2 speed motor. [12] [12] [13] [AD]
Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser
Which is a good dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser for The Cayman Islands?
- A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65 metre power cable, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but is missing cool shot.
- The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a long 1.82m power cord for more freedom when styling with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter to clean. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it includes cool shot making it more suited for drying thicker hair.
Both ionic travel hair dryers feature a concentrator and diffuser with strong motors to make them the most suitable travel blow dryers for thick hair. They will require a cheap plug adapter for The Cayman Islands to plug into a Cayman Islands power outlet, each hair dryer is lightweight and folds up to pack into a carry-on bag. [8] [9] [9] [AD]
Best hair dryers for travel
Which is the best hair dryer to buy for The Cayman Islands?
| Conair MiniPRO  |
BaByliss PRO  |
Conair Compact  |
Berta Folding  |
X5 Superlite  |
Hot Tools 1044  |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class | Mini | Compact | Compact with diffuser | |||
| Works in The Cayman Islands | 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.
The Cayman Islands power outlets and plug sockets
What frequency is used in The Cayman Islands?
The frequency of the current found in a Cayman Islands power outlet is 60Hz. [14]
What is the voltage in The Cayman Islands?
The normal voltage in The Cayman Islands is 120 volts.
Type A and B power outlets
Which plug adapter do you need to bring when using a hair dryer in The Cayman Islands?
There are two different types of power outlets used in The Cayman Islands, types B and A with the primary power outlets being type B:
- Plug Type A - You can recognise this wall socket by the 2 thin slots adjacent to each other.
- Plug Type B - This wall socket, technically called a type B power outlet, is identified by two slots where the blades go with a hole below for the longer earth pin.
A Type B power adapter allows you to use a 120 volt hair dryer in The Cayman Islands; read the step by step guide below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in The Cayman Islands. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to confirm if you have to use a voltage converter. [4] [15] [AD]
Dual voltage hair dryers
How can I change the voltage on a dual voltage travel hair dryer?
- Most models of dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which selects between two sets of voltages however some dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in The Cayman Islands.
- This dial or switch requires a coin or screwdriver to set the dryer to the right voltage between the 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
- Also it is worth noting down both switch positions as the painted numbers are prone to fading on some models.
How can I use a dual voltage blow dryer in The Cayman Islands?
- Check that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or that it operates with a 120 volt power socket.
- If the hair dryer supports dual voltage then make sure that it is switched to work in the 100-127 volt range. This is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to switch.
- Plug the dryer into the power adapter for The Cayman Islands, then plug in the power adapter into the Cayman Islands power outlet.
- Your dryer is now ready to be used in The Cayman Islands.
- Expect dual voltage hair dryer models which were purchased in a country that uses 220-240 volts to work slower than expected in a power outlet that supplies 100-127V.
Dual voltage hair dryer
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?
A simple method to tell if your hair dryer will handle dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, handle or the base of the hair dryer. This location will vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer, it could also state in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models can change automatically but other hair dryers will have a button which allows you to change between different regions depending on which country you are visiting.
- Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 120 volts used in The Cayman Islands then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Cayman Islands power outlet.
- Single voltage could also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 120 volts used in a Cayman Islands power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in The Cayman Islands.
- Dual voltage will say a large range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in The Cayman Islands or any other country if these numbers are shown.
Travelling to The Cayman Islands with a hair dryer
Hotel hair dryer
Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in The Cayman Islands?
Depending on the hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the room, either packed in the bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard, found in the bathroom or could potentially be of a slower air hose type.
In budget motels, hotels and hostels a communal hair dryer could be available at reception but could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt as to hotel hairdryer policy then either telephone the hotel in The Cayman Islands or check on the hotel web site to find out what type of hairdryer is available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but typically basic models lacking a diffuser and notorious for low heat and providing slow air speeds. For those concerned with hygiene should remove the burnt hair cuticles from other guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.
Remember, if in doubt either call ahead to the hotel in The Cayman Islands or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. [2] [AD]
Should I bring a travel hair dryer or domestic hair dryer to The Cayman Islands?
It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer rather than bringing your existing domestic hair dryer to The Cayman Islands as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 120 volt power outlets used with a Cayman Islands power outlet (provided that you use the correct power adapter for The Cayman Islands). A travel hair dryer will normally feature a collapsible handle and are lighter, this helps in reducing the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer. It is also worth bearing in mind that packing an expensive domestic blow dryer might put it at risk because of potential loss or damage in transit by an airport baggage handler in The Cayman Islands. The cost and inconvenience of replacing or repairing an expensive quality domestic hair dryer in The Cayman Islands could be higher than purchasing a much cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before travelling to bring with you . [16] [AD]
Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on
Is a hair dryer allowed on a plane in The Cayman Islands?
According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also recommends that you should check that your airline that is flying you to The Cayman Islands will allow hair dryers 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 for airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of power cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cords tightly around electronic items such as blow dryers). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against bumps and knocks during transit. [16] [17] [18] [AD]
Power converters for The Cayman Islands
Voltage converter
What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter for The Cayman Islands?
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 in The Cayman Islands, whereas a heavier and more expensive power converter transforms a 120 volt Cayman Islands power outlet to work with a non-120 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]
Do I need a voltage converter for The Cayman Islands to use my hair dryer?
The correct model of voltage transformer (or power converter) allows your hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 120 volt power outlet used in The Cayman Islands. A power converter is suitable for travellers who wish to bring their existing hair dryer, but it can be considerably less expensive to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it will be to purchase a power converter. Also, a power converter is considerably bulkier and heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable for travelling compared to a travel hair dryer. [7] [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in The Cayman Islands using a type B power adapter
Instructions showing you how to use your hair dryer in The Cayman Islands using a 3 pin Type B power charger.
- Check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 120 volt power outlet; but if not then don't attempt these instructions as you might damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages make sure you have set it to the 120 volt setting - refer to the owners manual for more information on how to do this.
- You will need to use a Type B plug adapter [4] if the shape of the power outlet used in The Cayman Islands doesn't accomodate the plug of your hair dryer. The plug adapter will adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet found in The Cayman Islands by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 120 volt supply.
- Start the process by inserting the Type B plug adapter into the power outlet. You can identify this plug outlet by two thin slots next to each other with a single semicircular hole below for the earthed pin.
- Plug in your hair dryer into the Type B plug adapter.
- Turn on the Cayman Islands power outlet.
- Your hair dryer can now be used in The Cayman Islands. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in The Cayman Islands using a type A power adapter
How to use a hair dryer in The Cayman Islands with a Type A power adapter.
- Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 120 volt power outlet; but if not then don't continue as you might damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse 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 the 120 volt setting - refer to the owners manual for more information on how to do this.
- Please check that you are not already using a hair dryer with a Type A plug - if it does then you won't need a power adapter (but still check that your hair dryer will work with a 120 volt power supply). If the type of power outlet used in The Cayman Islands isn't the same shape as the plug shape on your hair dryer you will need to bring a Type A plug adapter [6]. This Type A plug adapter is designed to fit plugs from other countries into an electrical outlet in The Cayman Islands simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 120 volt outlet.
- First you'll need to insert the Type A plug adapter into the Cayman Islands power outlet. The power supply, sometimes known as the Type A power outlet [5], is identified by 2 slots where the plug outlet blades go.
- Then plug in the hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
- Switch on the Cayman Islands power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be switched on. [AD]
See also
External links
We endeavour to ensure that links on this page are periodically checked and correct for suitability. This website may receive commissions for purchases made through links on this page. As an Amazon Associate WikiConnections earn from qualifying purchases. For more details please read the disclaimers page.
- Wikipedia - The Cayman Islands country Wiki page
- Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
- iec.ch - Type B power outlet
- Type B plug adapter - A Type B adapter, rated at 15 A and 125 V, featuring two parallel flat blades and a longer grounding pin, in compliance with NEMA 5-15 specifications. Suitable for travel to the US plug types and Canadian plugs..
- iec.ch - Type A power outlet
- Type A plug adapter - A two-blade, ungrounded electrical plug adapter for US plug types, Canadian power outlets, Thailand sockets, Mexico plug types, and select Asian power outlets..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
- iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
- Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
- tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
- Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
| 2 other devices in this category | |
| Connecting a Cayman Islands power outlet to: |
|