Which travel adapter do I need when using a hair dryer in Austria?

Austrian power outlet

Will my blowdryer work in Austria?

Check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Austria:

If not then either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with an 230 volt Austrian power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter will change 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 Austria, so check that the voltage transformer has a suitable power adapter for Austria otherwise you will still need to bring another power adapter. Note that your personal hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you could risk damage in a suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle the 230 volts used in Austria you run the risk of an electrical fire hazard, blowing a fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Prior to using your hair dryer in Austria read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Austria

Will my hair dryer work in Austria?

That will depend on if your hair dryer can operate using the 230 volts as used in Austria:

Best travel hair dryers for Austria

What to look for when choosing a travel blow dryer for Austria

A hair dryer cool shot button

What to look for when choosing a travel blow dryer for Austria

When looking for the best travel hair dryer for Austria choose a sturdy but lightweight dual voltage model that operates with an 230 volt Austrian power outlet power outlet, includes a folding handle, long power cable and ALCI safety plug. For drying thicker hair buy a model which includes a bundled diffuser that has a faster 1600+ watt dryer.

9 tips for buying a new travel hair dryer

  1. Try to look for lighter travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models with folding handles will mean more room.
  2. Suitable hair dryers should give control of both temperature and speed settings with low and high options, hotter faster speeds can dry thicker hair quickly and slower speeds with lower temperatures prevent damage to your hair.
  3. A 'cool shot' button on modern hair dryers can quickly cool hair down after drying which will hold a style but this option could be missing in smaller models.
  4. Rather than looking for more expensive third party attachments which fit the barrel perfectly it could be more convenient and cheaper purchasing a new hair dryer which includes a diffuser and concentrator from the manufacturer.
  5. Your hair dryer needs to be dual voltage in order to function with an 230 volt Austrian power outlet.
  6. Hotel rooms might have a mirror installed away from the nearest power outlet which makes it cumbersome to style hair, therefore look for the lengthiest power cord possible.
  7. Buying the cheapest travel hair dryer on the market could be risky, as well as safety concerns there is also a greater chance that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to a poor build.
  8. If you have thicker or curlier hair then you may need a travel blow dryer with a stronger motor. A high wattage ceramic model which includes a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby preventing damage.
  9. Safe travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will minimise the risk of overloading the motor and starting a fire, you can idenfity these with the two 'test' and 'reset' switches.
Which is the smallest travel hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle and concentrator

Which is the smallest travel hair dryer?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the most cost effective mini ionic blowdryer available to buy, this ceramic 1200 watt dryer is suited for quickly drying fine or thin hair on the go.
  • The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is compact enough to transport in a purse due to a 10.5oz body and folding handle and also includes features reserved for larger dryers such as a removable filter and a tourmaline outlet which can emit infrared heat to protect from heat damage for a glossier finish.

Both mini hair dryers have dual voltage and when used in combination with a suitable power adapter for an Austrian power outlet they will work in Austria and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried for styling on the go. Both include a concentrator, have 1.5 metre electric power cables and have a twin speed motor.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is the best hair dryer for thick or curly hair?

Thicker hair can take longer to dry and might be hard to do so without your hair turning frizzy, so the best option will be an ionic hair dryer and for curly thick hair we suggest a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly without frizz. Both an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic are suitable as they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers, avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best travel hair dryer with cool shot?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with bundled concentrator

What is the best travel hair dryer with cool shot?

  • A Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and includes a cool shot button that can will quickly cool down hair.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has a cool shot setting, uses a ceramic tourmaline outlet resulting in faster drying, twin heat options, a longer 1.8m electric power cord and includes a concentrator attachment.

Each model is folding, includes an ALCI safety plug which prevents overloading and has dual voltage making them perfect for visiting Austria in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for an Austrian power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Which is the best dual voltage hair dryer with a diffuser attachment?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

Which is the best dual voltage hair dryer with a diffuser attachment?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m electric power cord, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser however is missing cool shot.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a long 1.82m electric power cord for greater flexibility when drying with an ALCI safety plug and removable filter for cleaning. With a strong 1875 watt motor it includes a cool shot button making it more suited for styling thick hair.

Each ionic hair dryer features both diffuser and concentrator with strong enough motors to make them the most suitable travel blow dryers for thick hair. They are both lightweight and fold up to fit into a carry-on bag, only requiring a suitable power adapter for Austria to work with an Austrian power outlet.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best blow dryer to buy for Austria?

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 Austria 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.

Austria power outlets and plug sockets

What is the frequency used with an Austrian power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current from an Austrian power outlet is 50Hz. [14]

What is the voltage in Austria?

Power outlets in Austria are 230 volts.

Which plug adapter do you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Austria?

Type C and F power outlets

Which plug adapter do you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Austria?

There are two types of power outlets used in Austria, these are type F and C with the primary power outlets being type F:

  • Plug Type C - You can identify this plug socket by the 2 round holes adjacent to each other where the twin pins sit.
  • Plug Type F - The round power socket can be recognised by the two large adjacent holes along with a pair of two grounding clips above and below.

A Type F plug adapter will allow you to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Austria; read the step by step guide below for full details of using a hair dryer in Austria with a travel adapter. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to see if you also have to bring a voltage converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can I use a dual voltage blow dryer in Austria?

  1. Check that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer and that it works with a 230 volt power outlet.
  2. If the dryer is dual voltage please ensure that it is set to the 220-240V range. The switch is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to switch.
  3. Plug your dryer into the power adapter for Austria and then plug in the power adapter into the Austrian power outlet.
  4. It's common on most dual voltage hair dryer models operating within the 220-240v range to only work safely on their lowest setting - however the temperature and speed should be adequate for drying hair. Please check the hair dryer instructions to see if this is relevant for your model of dual voltage hair dryer to avoid overheating.
  5. Your hair dryer is now ready to be used in Austria.

How can you switch a travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have a dial or switch which toggles between two voltages however some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Austria.
  2. This dial or switch will typically require a screwdriver or coin to set the hair dryer to the correct voltage between a 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
  3. Also it is worth noting down the two switch positions as the painted numbers can sometimes rub off on some models of dryer.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer supports a dual voltage outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or handle of the hair dryer. This location will vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer, it should also state on the box. Some dual voltage hair dryers can change automatically, however other hair dryer models will have a button which allows you to toggle between different regions depending on which country you are visiting.

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

Travelling to Austria with a hair dryer

Is it safe to bring a domestic blow dryer to Austria?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer rather than packing your existing domestic hair dryer to Austria as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with an Austrian power outlet (provided that you bring the correct power adapter for Austria). Travel hair dryers normally feature a collapsing handle and will be much lighter, this will help in reducing the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer. Please be aware that packing your expensive domestic blow dryer could place it at risk due to potential damage or loss in your luggage by a baggage handlers in Austria. The costs of replacing or repairing an expensive specialised domestic hair dryer in Austria might overshadow the cost of buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before your trip .  [16] [AD]

Do hotel rooms in Austria have hair dryers?

Hair dryer attached to hotel desk

Do hotel rooms in Austria have hair dryers?

This depends on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and the class of the room. Hotel hair dryers are typically found in the bathroom, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or could be found in a bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer.

When staying in budget motels, hostels and hotels a shared hair dryer could be available at reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer availability then either telephone your hotel in Austria or check on the hotel web site to find out what type of hairdryer is available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are usable but normally basic models with no diffuser, notorious for slow air speeds and low heat. For those worried about hygiene should remove any 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 telephone ahead to the hotel in Austria or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Can I carry on a hair dryer?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I carry on a hair dryer?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when 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 check that your airline that is flying you to Austria 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 by airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly and will avoid a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cables tightly around blow dryers). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the most protection against knocks and bumps during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Power converters for Austria

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter?

A lightweight, cheap and small power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Austria, but a heavier and more expensive power converter transforms the voltage of 230 volts from an Austrian power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

Can you use a hair dryer with a power converter in Austria?

The correct type power converter (or voltage transformer) allows your hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 230 volt power outlet used in Austria. A power converter is more suited for travellers wishing to use their own hair dryer, but it could be more costly to buy a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. A power converter is substantially bulkier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable when packing in luggage compared to a travel hair dryer. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Austria using a type C power adapter

How to power a hair dryer in Austria with a Type C power charger.

  1. Please make sure that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply but if not then don't attempt these instructions as you could damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Some dual voltage travel blow dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting - please refer to the user guide to find out where the switch is located.
  2. You'll need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4] if the type of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same type of power outlet used in Austria. The Type C plug adapter helps convert plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet in Austria by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Begin the process by inserting the Type C plug adapter in the power outlet. This power outlet can be recognised by the 2 holes next to each other.
  4. Next plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Austrian power outlet. The hair dryer can now be used in Austria. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Austria using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Austria using a type F power adapter

Instructions on how to power a hair dryer in Austria with a Type F power adapter.

  1. Please ensure that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet - but if not then don't attempt these instructions as you could create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Some dual voltage travel blow dryers will sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure you have set it to the 230 volt setting for use in Austria - please consult the instructions to find out where the switch is found.
  2. You'll need to buy a Type F plug adapter [6] if the type of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of power outlet used in Austria. This Type F plug adapter is designed to fit plugs on appliances from other countries for a power outlet in Austria by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Begin the process by plugging the Type F plug adapter in the Austrian power outlet. This round plug outlet can be recognised by the two 4.8mm adjacent holes, plus a pair of two grounding clips above and below.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Austrian power outlet. You can now switch on your hair dryer in Austria. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Austria using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Austria country page on Wikipedia
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  4. Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
  5. iec.ch - Type F power outlet
  6. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  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.