4 Best Travel Hair Dryers For Europe – Dual Voltage Options!

best travel hair dryer for Europe

When it comes to the best travel hair dryer for Europe, we don’t just consider the size. What’s important is the voltage of the unit. Unlike the United States that uses the 110v electrical system, entire Europe has a 220v system. That means your single-voltage hair dryer may not be suitable for travel use. For this post, I reviewed four of the best hair dryers that sport a dual voltage system so you can use it anywhere you go.

BEST OVERALL
Andis 1875-Watt Tourmaline Ceramic Ionic Styling Hair Dryer, Silver (85020)
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JINRI Travel Hair Dryer Sterilization 1875 Watt Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Dc Motor Foldable Handle Lightweight Negative Ionic Folding Hair Dryer (RED)
Andis 1875-Watt Tourmaline Ceramic Ionic Styling Hair Dryer, Silver (85020)
JINRI Travel Hair Dryer Sterilization 1875 Watt Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Dc Motor Foldable Handle Lightweight Negative Ionic Folding Hair Dryer (RED)
Price not available
Price not available
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BEST OVERALL
Andis 1875-Watt Tourmaline Ceramic Ionic Styling Hair Dryer, Silver (85020)
Andis 1875-Watt Tourmaline Ceramic Ionic Styling Hair Dryer, Silver (85020)
Price not available
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RUNNERS-UP
JINRI Travel Hair Dryer Sterilization 1875 Watt Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Dc Motor Foldable Handle Lightweight Negative Ionic Folding Hair Dryer (RED)
JINRI Travel Hair Dryer Sterilization 1875 Watt Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Dc Motor Foldable Handle Lightweight Negative Ionic Folding Hair Dryer (RED)
Price not available
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Why does Europe use 220v instead of 110v?

Well, it all boils down to saving money. It turns out that power companies can use thinner wires if they use 220 volts instead of U.S. 110 volts in their system. Since they will be using less copper, their electricity infrastructure will cost less to build.

So how come America is still using 110 volts? First of all, switching to 220 volts in the U.S. means wiping out every household of 110-volt appliances – that means almost everything.

It was Thomas Edison who first used 110 volts in the United States because this current makes the filament of his bulb last long. This trade-off for Edison’s invention hasn’t been changed ever since.

The good thing is that you can find dual voltage hair dryers that work for both electric systems.


How to know if my hair dryer is dual voltage

You have to check the label. A dual voltage will indicate a “120 – 220v AC” or 120/220-250v”. This means that the equipment can work on any electric current that falls within that range. If your hair dryer only listed “120v”, it’s a single-voltage dryer that will not work in Europe. Worse, your single-voltage hair dryer will be damaged if you plugged it in without a current converter.

Most hair dryer manufacturers will bank on this feature in marketing their products, so it’s not difficult to find one.


What to look for a travel hair dryer?

Aside from the fact that you should look for a dual voltage unit, you should also consider the following aspects: 

Consider your hairstyle

No matter what hair dryer you’re buying, you should always consider your hair type. For those with brittle and easily damaged hair, a hair dryer with ionic technology will help a lot. This feature will reduce frizz and flyaways.

Heating and airflow settings

I always recommend a hair dryer with variable speed and airflow settings. This will let you use the equipment based on the hairstyle you want to sport and the condition of your hair. Those with thick hair will usually do well on almost any variable speed, but those with thin hair should consider a unit with a cool setting. This will let you dry your hair without using too much heat.

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Unlike full-fledged hair dryers, those made for traveling have minimal settings. Just try to look for one that offers the best flexibility.

Size

When it comes to travel hair dryers, it’s always smart to choose a compact option. Nevertheless, it depends on the space you can manage in your luggage or carry-on. Most compact travel hair dryers are stripped of features to trim down its size. It’s a trade-off for convenience.

Attachments

If possible, look for a travel hair dryer with attachments like combs, diffusers, and concentrators. These aren’t really a requirement, but it will always depend on your needs. If your trip to Europe involves attending parties and other functions, these extras will be a big help.

Cord length

Lastly, I recommend a long cord. This will ensure that you can style in comfort whatever room you got. A swiveling cord is also ideal, so it doesn’t get tangled as you maneuver the equipment in your hair. It also saves you from the hassle of bringing an extension cord.


4 Best Travel Hair Dryers For Europe Trips

OUR TOP PICK: Andis Tourmaline Ceramic Hair Dryer

When it comes to the best travel hair dryer for Europe, I swear by the Andis Tourmaline Ceramic Hair Dryer. This is a 1,875-watt hair dryer with a dual voltage motor for European and worldwide travel.

This hair dryer has a polymer body that can endure falls and bumps. Also, it’s equipped with a ceramic heating technology that delivers even heat on your hair. It also helps seal the natural oils and moisture of your scalp.

What I like the most about this hair dryer is its cool-shot button locks that you can set in Turbo for high-speed drying.

Andis 1875-Watt Tourmaline Ceramic Ionic Styling Hair Dryer, Silver (85020)
  • 1875 Watts of drying power. Body Material: Polymer
  • Ionic technology breaks up water molecules resulting in quicker drying time
  • Ceramic even-heat technology preserves natural oils & seals in moisture
  • High velocity airflow with 3 Air/Heat settings
  • Cool-shot button locks in style, Turbo boost for high speed, Dual voltage for...

Aside from the hair dryer, you’ll also get a wide-tooth comb, soft-bristled, and fine-tooth comb attachments. These are slide-on attachments that are easy to put on and off the dryer. This dryer also sports three heat and air settings to suit your styling needs.

Another big plus here is the 9-feet cord that lets you style without the hassle. Overall, the hair dryer weighs a very lightweight 1.3 pounds, which is suitable for most travels.

Just a warning, though: this isn’t suitable for fine hair because it gets pretty hot. If you have Afro or very thick hair, this will be a workhorse for your styling.

Pros

  • Comes with attachments
  • Ceramic heating technology
  • Long power cord

Cons


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T3 Featherweight Compact Hair Dryer

If you’re looking for a compact option, you should consider the T3 Featherweight Compact Hair Dryer. Although it’s smaller than most dryers, T3 packs a lot of power for your styling. It has a dual voltage motor and a function similar to a full-sized dryer.

Aside from that, it prevents frizz and tangles so you can style and dry faster. It also sports T3’s proprietary SoftAire technology that provides powerful airflow on a compact build. It’s a great hair dryer for your home and your European travels.

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T3 makes it simple when it comes to the controls. It has a slide power and temperature switch that allows you to choose your drying speed and heat level. This is also equipped with a cool shot feature for those with thin and fine hair.

If you’re packing light, T3 is the ideal hair dryer. Its handle folds along the blower head. It will help you save space on your luggage to make room for more accessories.

I also like the voltage switch on the handle that lets you change from 125v to 250v on a breeze. Lastly, it comes with a long 9-feet cord and a storage tote.

Pros

  • Foldable handle
  • Slide power and temp switch
  • 125v to 250v voltage switch

Cons

  • Takes longer to dry hair

FoxyBae Mini Travel Hair Dryer

Another travel hair dryer that I like is the FoxyBae Mini Travel Hair Dryer. It has a stylish marble body color and compact build that you can easily stash in your luggage.

The highlight of this hair dryer is the ionic technology courtesy of the ceramic tourmaline heating system that releases negative ions. This feature helps reduce frizz so your hair will have a smooth and silky finish.

I also like how this hair dryer seals the hair’s cuticle so your scalp won’t dry out while blow-drying. It also works as a straightener, which is a big plus.

You can use this dryer at three different speeds to suit your styling. This is also equipped with a 360-degree swiveling cord for added convenience. The speed and temp controls are contained in a single switch on the handle for quick adjustments.

Overall, this has a perfect size for traveling. It doesn’t have a lot of features, but that’s a reasonable trade-off for the compact size and decent functions of this hair dryer. It doesn’t look or feel cheap, which is also evident in its drying abilities.

Pros

  • Compact dual voltage hair dryer
  • 360-degree swivel cord
  • Ionic technology

Cons

  • Takes a while to dry thick hair (understandable for its compact size)

JINRI Dual Voltage Hair Dryer

If you can manage a larger space in your luggage, I recommend the JINRI Dual Voltage Hair Dryer. This one has an 1875-watt motor that gives a powerful airflow to dry the thickest hair fast. Such a feature helps you save time during your trip.

Its handle is also folding, which makes it easier to pack. It also sports two-speed settings for 125v and only one setting when using it on 250v. I think it’s a reasonable trade-off for its power and dual voltage build. To adjust the voltage, there’s a knob at the base of the handle.

In addition, this travel hair dryer has a ceramic tourmaline air outlet that releases a negative ion to lock in the hair’s natural moisture. It also reduces frizz and static.

As for the heat level, it’s quite manageable even for those with thin and stick-straight hair. Just don’t forget to buy an adapter so you can plug it in European sockets.

It also comes with a removable concentrator so you can dry your hair faster. Take note that it doesn’t fit with universal diffusers, so just use the one that comes in the package. There’s also a hanging loop at the bottom of the handle for easier styling.

Lastly, this hair dryer has a low hum, which is a big plus. Overall, I can say that this gives the best bang for the buck.

Pros

  • Foldable handle
  • 1875-watt motor
  • Negative ion technology
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Cons

  • A bit large for those packing light

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I bring a hair dryer on the plane?

A: Yes, you can bring hair dryers on the plane, according to TSA. You can pack inside your carry-on or your checked-in luggage whichever you like. We recommend getting a small hair dryer so you wouldn’t have issues with the airport authorities.

Q: Can I use my hair dryer in Europe?

A: You can use your hair dryer in Europe as long as it has a compatible voltage. If not, you’ll need to carry an additional power converter, which is a big hassle. Remember that power adapters are nothing but connectors that make your plug type compatible with the wall socket’s shape. It doesn’t convert electric current.

Q: Are most hair dryers in the market dual voltage?

A: Unfortunately, no. You have to check each hair dryer if it works on 110v to 220v electric current. A lot of hair dryers sold in the U.S. are meant for local use only. Also, be careful of hair dryer manufacturers who will market their products as dual voltage even if it’s not.

Q: Do all hotels in Europe have hair dryers?

A: A lot of European hotels have hair dryers, but there’s no guarantee that it will work as expected. It’s best to bring your own to suit your needs, just make sure that you get a unit that works on a 220v system. A dual voltage hair dryer is very useful because you can still use it at home and in almost any country.

Q:  How do I pack my hair dryer for travel?

A: When packing a hair dryer, loop the cord and secure it with a hair tie. There’s no special packaging you need to do. I don’t recommend wrapping the hair dryer because it will make it difficult for airport officials to inspect your things.

Q: Do hostels in Europe have a hair dryer?

A: If you’re traveling on a budget and planning to stay at a hostel, it pays to ask the place first if they have a hair dryer. Fancier hostels around Europe will have functional hair dryers, but there’s no guarantee. You should ask before your trip, so you’ll know if you need to bring one.


Final words

The best travel hair dryer for Europe will let you travel in style. Just remember to get the model with the right voltage so you’ll have a hassle-free vacation. In this post, I’ve reviewed four of the best options you’ll find in the market. Each one has unique features to make packing a much easier task.

What do you think of the hair dryers I reviewed here? Let me know below!

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