How do I use a hair dryer in Trinidad?

Trinidad power outlet

Can I use my blowdryer in Trinidad?

Check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Trinidad:

If not then you can either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 115 volt Trinidad power outlet, however this is noticeably heavier, bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but won't change the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of wall outlet used in Trinidad, so please check that your power converter has an appropriate power adapter for Trinidad otherwise you will also need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Be aware that your own domestic hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you could risk potential damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle the 115 volts used in Trinidad you run the potential risk of an electrical fire hazard, a blown fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Before attempting to use your hair dryer in Trinidad please check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Trinidad

Will my hair dryer work in Trinidad?

This depends on if your hair dryer is designed to handle the 115 volt power outlets in Trinidad. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can operate using 115 volts and you have the correct plug adapter then you can use your hair dryer in Trinidad. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2], read the guide on can you use a voltage converter with a hair dryer in Trinidad for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Trinidad

Choosing the best blow dryer for Trinidad

Bundled diffuser and concentrator attachments

Choosing the best blow dryer for Trinidad

When looking for the best hair dryer choose a sturdy but light dual-voltage dryer that operates with a 115 volt Trinidad power outlet power outlet, includes a folding handle, long cord and a safety plug. When drying thick hair look for one which includes a bundled diffuser that uses a stronger 1600+ watt motor.

What to look for when buying a blow dryer?

  1. Safe travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will minimise the risk of the motor overloading and starting fires; models are identified with the two 'test' and 'reset' switches found on the plug.
  2. If you have thicker hair then you might need a hair dryer which has a stronger motor; a higher wattage ceramic model which includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby avoiding damage.
  3. Don't get the cheapest dryer - as well as safety concerns there is a greater risk that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to cheaper parts.
  4. Hotel rooms might have a fixed mirror positioned some distance away from the nearest power outlet which could make it hard to style hair, therefore when buying a travel hair dryer look for the model with the longest power cord available or pack either a portable mirror or a power extension cable.
  5. Rather than scouring shops to look for more expensive third party attachments which fit the unique dryer barrel size perfectly it could be cheaper buying a new hair dryer that includes a concentrator and diffuser.
  6. A hair dryer needs to be dual voltage to operate in Trinidad.
  7. A 'cool shot' feature can quickly cool down hair after drying to hold a style but this option is missing in more compact dryers.
  8. The best travel hair dryers for styling will allow you to change the speed and temperature settings with low and high options - faster hotter speeds will quickly dry thicker hair whereas lower temperatures with slower speeds reduce damage to hair.
  9. Try to look for lightweight travel hair dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers which have a folding handle will mean more room.
Which is the best dual voltage travel hair dryer with diffuser for Trinidad?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

Which is the best dual voltage travel hair dryer with diffuser for Trinidad?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65 metre power cord, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser but lacks cool shot.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a generous 1.82 metre power cord for greater flexibility when styling with an ALCI power plug and removable filter to clean. It has a powerful 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it suitable for drying thicker hair.

Both ionic travel hair dryers include a diffuser and concentrator attachment with powerful enough motors to make them the most suitable travel blow dryers for thick hair. They will only require a suitable power adapter for Trinidad to work with a Trinidad power outlet, each dryer is light and folds up to pack in a carry-on bag.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

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

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

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

  • Using a strong two 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 to give a longer lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot button, uses a ceramic tourmaline outlet meaning faster drying, twin heat settings, a longer 1.8 metre power cord and includes a concentrator.

Both models fold, have an ALCI plug to prevent overloading and has dual voltage making them ideal for travel to Trinidad in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a Trinidad power outlet.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Which is a good blow dryer for thick hair?

Thicker hair can take much longer to dry and will be difficult to do so without your hair turning frizzy. The best option for thicker hair will be an ionic hair dryer, if the hair is curly use a diffuser as both are suitable 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 included diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor that is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [8] [9] [AD]

Which is the best mini folding travel hair dryer with dual voltage?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator and folding handle

Which is the best mini folding travel hair dryer with dual voltage?

  • For drying fine and thin hair on the go then a ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable mini ionic blowdryer available on the market.
  • A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is compact enough to transport in a handbag because of the 10.5oz body and folding handle and has options reserved for larger dryers including a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect from heat damage during use which results in a shiny finish.

Both of these mini hair dryers support dual voltage and when used in combination with the right plug adapter for a Trinidad power outlet they should work in Trinidad and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried around all day for drying on the go. Both include a concentrator, have 1.5 metre power cords and a twin speed motor.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

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

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 Trinidad 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.

Trinidad power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Trinidad?

The common residential voltage used in Trinidad is 115 volts.

What electrical frequency is used with a Trinidad power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current found in a Trinidad power outlet is 60Hz. [14]

Which travel adapter will you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Trinidad?

Type A and B power outlets

Which travel adapter will you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Trinidad?

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

  • Plug Type A - You can identify this wall outlet by 2 adjacent slots where the blades slide into.
  • Plug Type B - This power outlet, technically known as a type B power outlet, is recognised by the two thin slots adjacent to each other for live and neutral blades with a single semicircle shaped hole below for the slightly longer earthed pin.

A suitable power adapter to bring for using a 115 volt hair dryer in Trinidad is a Type B power adapter; read the step by step guide below for full details of how to use a plug adapter for Trinidad. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to confirm if you need to bring a voltage converter.  [4] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can you change the voltage on a travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which changes between 2 voltages however some hair dryers can automatically detect the voltage from a Trinidad power outlet.
  2. This dial or switch needs a screwdriver or coin to change the dryer to the right voltage between a 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
  3. Also, it's worth making a note of the two switch positions as the painted numbers are prone to fading on certain models of travel hair dryer.
How can you tell if your hair dryer is dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

How can you tell if your hair dryer is dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer can support a dual voltage outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or handle. The location will vary depending on the make or model of your hair dryer and could also state 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.

  • Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 115 volts used in Trinidad then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Trinidad power outlet.
  • Single voltage might also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 115 volts used in a Trinidad power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Trinidad.
  • Dual voltage will say a large voltage range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Trinidad or any other country if these numbers are shown.

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

  1. Ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer and it will work with a 115 volt power socket.
  2. If the dryer is dual voltage then make sure it is set to the 100-127 volt range. This is normally found on the base or handle of the blow dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to turn.
  3. Plug the dryer into the power adapter for Trinidad and also plug in the power adapter into the Trinidad power outlet.
  4. Your dryer is now ready to operate with a Trinidad power outlet.
  5. Expect travel hair dryers which were purchased in a country that operates with 220-240V to work slower than expected when in a country which uses 100-127V electricity.

Travelling to Trinidad with a hair dryer

Can a hair dryer go in carry on to Trinidad?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can a hair dryer go in carry on to Trinidad?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA also recommends that you should verify that the airline who is flying you to Trinidad will allow a blow dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft.

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 and will avoid a tangle of power wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cables tightly around blow dryers). If you do intend to bring 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 bumps and knocks during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Trinidad?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Trinidad?

Depending on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the hotel room, either packed away in the bedroom drawer, cupboard or wardrobe, found attached to a bathroom wall unit or could potentially be a slower air hose type. When staying in budget motels, hostels and hotels a communal hair dryer might be offered at reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt as to hotel hairdryer availability you should either telephone the hotel in Trinidad or look on the booking web site to find out what type of hairdryer is available to guests. Hair dryers in hotels are adequate but normally rudimentary models lacking a diffuser and notorious for slow air speeds and low heat. For those concerned with hygiene might want to check for any burnt hair cuticles from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

For travellers who are uncertain 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 or call ahead to their hotel in Trinidad to check beforehand.  [2] [AD]

Is it better to bring a domestic hair dryer or a travel hair dryer to Trinidad?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer instead of packing your existing domestic hair dryer to Trinidad as it ensures that it will work with the 115 volt power outlets used with a Trinidad power outlet (as long as you use the correct power adapter for Trinidad). Travel hair dryers normally feature a collapsing handle and are lighter which will help in reducing the size and weight in luggage compared to packing a domestic blow dryer. Note that bringing an expensive domestic blow dryer could place it at risk because of potential loss or damage in your suitcase by an airport baggage handler. The costs involved in replacing an expensive quality domestic hair dryer in Trinidad might outweigh the costs of buying a much cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case beforehand .  [17] [AD]

Power converters for Trinidad

Can I use a hair dryer with a converter in Trinidad?

The correct model of voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 115 volt power outlet used in Trinidad. A power converter is more suitable for travellers who want to use their own domestic hair dryer, but it can be more expensive to purchase a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also worth noting, a power converter is significantly heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable when travelling. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet found in Trinidad, but a more expensive and heavier power converter will convert the voltage of 115 volts from a Trinidad power outlet to work with a non-115 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

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

How to use your hair dryer in Trinidad with a Type B power charger.

  1. Please 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 it doesn't then do not attempt these instructions as you might create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Some blow dryers will typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure you have set it to accept 115 volts - please consult the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. You will need to bring a Type B plug adapter [4] if the type of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the plug outlet used in Trinidad. This power adapter will convert plugs on appliances from other countries for use with an electrical outlet in Trinidad 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. Begin by taking the Type B plug adapter and inserting it into the Trinidad power outlet. The plug outlet, technically known as the Type B power outlet [3], is recognised by the two thin slots with a hole below for the ground pin.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Trinidad power outlet. You can now turn on the blow dryer for use in Trinidad. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Trinidad using a type B power adapter

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

Instructions on how to power a hair dryer in Trinidad by using a Type A power charger.

  1. Please 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 it doesn't then do not continue as you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Dual voltage blow dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer make sure you have set it to accept 115 volts - please consult the owners manual to find out 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 still check that your hair dryer can work with a 115 volt power outlet). You will need to bring a Type A plug adapter [6] if the type of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the plug outlet used in Trinidad. This power adapter will convert plugs on appliances from other countries for use with an electrical outlet in Trinidad 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. Begin by taking the Type A plug adapter and plugging it into the Trinidad power outlet. The plug outlet, technically known as the Type A power outlet [5], is recognised by the two thin slots.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Trinidad power outlet. The hair dryer can now be used in Trinidad. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Trinidad using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Trinidad 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. 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. BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - With dual heat and speed settings, the device aims to cater to a variety of hair types. Its dual voltage capability, folding handle and lightweight design make it suited for international travel..
  13. Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers..
  14. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  15. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  16. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  17. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.