Which plug adapter will you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Tobago?

Tobagonian power outlet

Will my blow dryer work in Tobago?

First check your hair dryer can work in Tobago:

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 115 volt Tobagonian power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but won't change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of wall outlet used in Tobago, so please check that your power converter comes with a power adapter for Tobago otherwise you will need to bring another power adapter. Be aware that your own existing hair dryer might not be suited for travel and you risk damage in a suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle the 115 volts used in Tobago you run the potential risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or blowing a fuse. Prior to using your hair dryer in Tobago check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Tobago

Will my hair dryer work in Tobago?

This will depend on if your hair dryer can operate using the 115 volts which are used in Tobago:

Best travel hair dryers for Tobago

Choosing the best blow dryer

An ALCI safety plug

Choosing the best blow dryer

When looking for the best travel hair dryer for Tobago choose a sturdy but light dual-voltage dryer that works with a 115 volt Tobagonian power outlet power outlet with a long cord, a folding handle and an ALCI safety plug. For drying thicker hair buy a dryer with a faster 1600+ watt dryer and included diffuser.

Things to consider when purchasing a new blow dryer

  1. Look for a lighter travel dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers which have folding handles will mean more space.
  2. The best travel hair dryers for styling should give control of both temperature and speed settings with low and high options - a faster hotter speed will dry hair quicker whilst lower temperatures with slower speeds reduce damage to hair.
  3. Modern travel dryers feature a cool shot option for rapidly cooling hair down after drying to hold in a style but this option is missing in more compact models.
  4. It could be cheaper and more convenient to buy a new hair dryer that includes a concentrator and diffuser rather than scouring shops to look for more expensive third party attachments.
  5. Your travel hair dryer has to be dual voltage to operate in Tobago.
  6. Depending on your accommodation you could find they have a wall mirror positioned some distance away from the nearest power outlet which makes it cumbersome to use the travel dryer, so when buying a travel hair dryer look for the lengthiest power cord possible.
  7. You shouldn't risk getting the cheapest dryer; as well as concerns with safety there is also a greater chance that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to cheaper parts.
  8. Curlier or thicker hair could require a hair dryer which has a stronger motor, a higher wattage ceramic model which includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster to prevent damage.
  9. Safe travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which reduces the danger of the motor overloading and starting electrical fires - models can be recognised by the two 'test' and 'reset' switches found on the plug.
Which is the best small ionic dual voltage hair dryer for Tobago?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator attachment

Which is the best small ionic dual voltage hair dryer for Tobago?

  • A Conair MiniPRO is the cheapest small ionic hair dryer available to buy, this 1200 watt ceramic dryer is suitable for quickly drying thin and fine hair whilst on the go.
  • For a dryer which is compact enough to carry in a purse then the 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat for a shinier finish this dryer has features which are normally found with larger models.

Both mini hair dryers are dual voltage and when used in combination with the right plug adapter for a Tobagonian power outlet they should work in Tobago folding conveniently enough to be carried for styling on the go. Both have a 1.5 metre power cable, have a two speed motor and include a concentrator attachment.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good blow dryer for thick and curly hair?

Thick hair takes longer to dry and might be hard to do so without your hair turning frizzy. The best option is an ionic dryer and for curly thick hair we suggest a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly without frizz. Both the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer will be suitable as they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [10] [11] [AD]

Which is a good compact travel hair dryer for Tobago?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

Which is a good compact travel hair dryer for Tobago?

  • With a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features cool shot that can will quickly cool down hair to give a longer lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, a tourmaline ceramic outlet resulting in quicker and safer styling, 2 heat settings, a longer 1.8 metre power cord and comes with a concentrator attachment.

Both models can fold, have an ALCI plug to prevent overloading and support dual voltage making both perfect for visiting Tobago in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for a Tobagonian power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is a good dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser attachment?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

What is a good dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser attachment?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65 metre power cord, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser however is missing a cool shot button.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a lengthy 1.82 metre power cord for greater freedom when drying with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter to clean easily. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it also has a cool shot button making it perfect for styling thick hair.

Both ionic hair dryers feature both diffuser and concentrator attachments with strong motors to make them the most suitable hair dryers for thick hair. Each dryer is light and folds up to pack in carry-on luggage, only requiring a suitable power adapter for Tobago to work with a Tobagonian power outlet.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

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

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 Tobago 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.

Tobago power outlets and plug sockets

What electrical frequency is used with a Tobagonian power outlet?

The frequency found in a Tobagonian power outlet is 60 Hz. [14]

What is the mains voltage in Tobago?

Power outlets in Tobago are 115 volts.

Which power adapter will you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Tobago?

Type A and B power outlets

Which power adapter will you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Tobago?

There are two types of power outlets used in Tobago, types B and A with the primary power outlets being type B:

  • Plug Type A - This power socket (technically known as the type A power outlet) can be identified by 2 adjacent slots next to each other.
  • Plug Type B - You can recognise the plug socket by the 2 slots parallel to each other with a single semicircle shaped hole below for the ground pin.

A Type B power adapter will allow you to use a 115 volt hair dryer in Tobago; read the step by step guide below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Tobago using a power adapter. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also need to bring a voltage converter.  [4] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How do I switch a dual voltage hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have some type of switch which changes between 2 voltages however some dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Tobago.
  2. The switch or dial needs a screwdriver or coin to change the hair dryer to the correct voltage between the 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
  3. Also it is worth noting down the 2 switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to fading on some models of hair dryer.

How do I use a dual voltage hair dryer in Tobago?

  1. First check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or that it will operate with a 115 volt power socket.
  2. If the dryer is dual voltage then ensure that it is switched to operate within the 100-127V 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 Tobago, also plug in the power adapter into the Tobagonian power outlet.
  4. Your dryer can now be operated with a Tobagonian power outlet.
  5. It's common on travel hair dryer models that came from a country that uses 220-240 volts to work slower than expected when used with a power outlet that supplies 100-127 volts.
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?

A simple method to tell if your hair dryer supports dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the base, handle or plug of your hair dryer. This location might vary depending on the make or model of your hair dryer and could also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair dryers will change automatically but other hair dryer models will have a switch which allows you to toggle between different voltages depending on which country you are visiting.

  • Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 115 volts used in Tobago then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Tobagonian 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 115 volts used in a Tobagonian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Tobago.
  • Dual voltage will typically say a larger range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Tobago or any other country if these numbers are shown.

Travelling to Tobago with a hair dryer

Should you bring a travel hair dryer or domestic blow dryer to Tobago?

Packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing your existing hair dryer to Tobago (typically marked with 'For domestic use only') as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 115 volt power outlets used with a Tobagonian power outlet (provided that you bring the correct power adapter for Tobago). A travel hair dryer will normally feature a folding handle and will be much lighter, this will help in reducing the size and weight in luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer.

It is also worth concidering that packing an expensive domestic blow dryer could place it at risk because of potential loss or damage in transit by airline baggage handlers. The inconvenience and costs of replacing or repairing an expensive specialised hair dryer in Tobago might be higher than purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case beforehand .  [16] [AD]

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Tobago?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Tobago?

It will all depend on the individual hotel and the quality of the room. Hotel hair dryers are typically found attached to a bathroom wall unit, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or might be located in a bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer.

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

For guests who aren't sure that a suitable and hygienic hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer.  [2] [AD]

Can you take a blow dryer in your hand luggage to Tobago?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can you take a blow dryer in your hand luggage to Tobago?

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 that is taking you to Tobago will allow hair dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing your blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible for airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cables tightly around electronic items). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the most protection against knocks and drops during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Power converters for Tobago

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

Voltage converter

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

A heavy and bulky power converter transforms the voltage of 115 volts from a Tobagonian power outlet to work with a non-115 volt hair dryer, but a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Tobago. [7] [AD]

Do you need a converter to use a hair dryer in Tobago?

A power converter (or voltage transformer) allows your hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 115 volt power outlet used in Tobago. Travellers wishing to use their own domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, however it might be a lot less expensive to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to buy a power converter. Also worth noting, a power converter is significantly heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suited for packing in luggage compared to a travel hair dryer. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Tobago using a type B power adapter

How to use your hair dryer in Tobago with a 3 pinned Type B travel charger.

  1. Make sure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 115 volt power supply but if not then don't attempt these instructions as you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure you have set it to accept 115 volts - please 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 used in Tobago you will need to bring a Type B plug adapter [4]. The power adapter will convert plugs from other countries for a power outlet used in Tobago simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 115 volt supply.
  3. Plug the Type B plug adapter in the wall outlet. You can recognise the plug outlet by 2 slots parallel to each other for live and neutral blades with a single semicircle shaped hole below for the ground pin.
  4. Then plug in the hair dryer into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Tobagonian power outlet.
  6. You can now turn on your hair dryer to use in Tobago. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Tobago using a type B power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Tobago using a type A power adapter

Instructions showing how to power a hair dryer in Tobago with a three prong Type A travel adapter.

  1. Ensure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 115 volt power supply but if not then don't proceed because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to accept 115 volts - please refer to the instructions for more details on how to do this.
  2. This guide assumes that you're not already using a hair dryer with a Type A plug - if it does then you won't need a power adapter (but please check that your hair dryer will work with a 115 volt power supply). You'll need to use a Type A plug adapter [6] if the shape of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the plug outlet used in Tobago. This Type A plug adapter is designed to adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries for use with an electrical outlet in Tobago by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 115 volt outlet.
  3. Begin by inserting the Type A plug adapter in the Tobagonian power outlet. The power supply, sometimes called a Type A power outlet [5], is recognised by two thin slots adjacent to each other.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Tobagonian power outlet. You can now turn on the blow dryer in Tobago. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Tobago using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Tobago Wikipedia page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type B power outlet
  4. 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..
  5. iec.ch - Type A power outlet
  6. 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..
  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. BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - With dual heat and speed settings, the device aims to cater to a variety of hair types. Its dual voltage capability, folding handle and lightweight design make it suited for international travel..
  9. Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers..
  10. 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. 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..
  13. 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..
  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.