How do I use my hair dryer in Palau?

Palauan power outlet

Can I use my blow dryer in Palau?

First check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Palau:

If not then either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 120 volt Palauan power outlet, however this is substantially heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Palau, therefore please check that your voltage transformer has a power adapter for Palau otherwise you will also need to bring a seperate power adapter. Also worth noting that your own personal hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you risk potential damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 120 volts used in Palau you run the risk of an electrical fire hazard, blowing a fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Before using your hair dryer in Palau read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Palau

Will my hair dryer work in Palau?

This depends on if your hair dryer can handle the 120 volt power outlets used in Palau:

Best travel hair dryers for Palau

Choosing the best travel blow dryer

An ALCI safety plug

Choosing the best travel blow dryer

When choosing the best travel hair dryer look for a sturdy but lightweight dual-voltage dryer which operates with a 120 volt Palauan power outlet power outlet with a folding handle, ALCI safety plug and a long power cord. For drying thicker hair look for a model which includes a diffuser that uses a higher 1600+ watt dryer.

Things to consider when buying a new hair dryer

  1. Ideal travel hair dryers should allow you to control both speed and temperature with high and low options, lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to hair whilst faster hotter speeds will quickly dry wet hair.
  2. It might be cheaper and more convenient purchasing a new dryer which includes a diffuser and concentrator rather than scouring stores to look for expensive 3rd party attachments.
  3. Hotel rooms in Palau could have a mirror positioned too far away from a power outlet making it hard to use the hair dryer, therefore when buying a travel blow dryer search for the unit with the lengthiest power cord possible or pack either a power extension cord or hand mirror.
  4. Try looking for lightweight travel hair dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, dryers with a folding handle will mean more space.
  5. If you have curlier or thicker hair then you could need a travel hair dryer which has a more powerful motor. A higher wattage ceramic dryer which has a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby avoiding damage.
  6. The safest travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which minimises the risk of overloading the motor leading to starting a fire; models can be recognised by the 2 test and reset switches on the plug.
  7. A 'cool shot' option will quickly cool hair down after drying to hold in a style but this feature lacks in cheaper models.
  8. In order to operate with a 120 volt Palauan power outlet the travel hair dryer needs to be dual voltage.
  9. Buying the cheapest travel dryer on the market is risky; as well as concerns with safety there is a greater chance that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to cheaper components.
What is a good dual voltage travel hair dryer for Palau?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

What is a good dual voltage travel hair dryer for Palau?

  • Using a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features cool shot which can will rapidly cool down hair.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot setting, a tourmaline ceramic air outlet resulting in faster drying, two heat settings, a longer 1.8m power cable and includes a concentrator attachment.

Both models fold, include an ALCI power plug which prevents overloading and support dual voltage making them perfect for travel to Palau in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for a Palauan power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is a good hair dryer for thick hair?

Thick hair will take much longer to dry and might be difficult to dry without your hair going frizzy, the best option will be an ionic dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are suitable to dry and manage hair smoothly. Both an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic are recommended because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best small ionic travel hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium

What is the best small ionic travel hair dryer?

  • For quickly drying fine or thin hair whilst on the go the ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the best value mini ionic hairdryer available to buy.
  • A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is both lightweight and small enough to transport in a purse because of a 10.5 ounce body and folding handle that includes options found on larger blow dryers including a removable filter and a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage which results in a glossier finish.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used along with a suitable plug adapter for a Palauan power outlet they will work in Palau and fold conveniently enough to be carried around all day for styling on the go. Both include a concentrator attachment, have 1.5 metre electric power cords and have a 2 speed motor.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Which is a good dual voltage ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment for Palau?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

Which is a good dual voltage ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment for Palau?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m power cable, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however lacks cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a longer 1.82m power cable for greater freedom when styling with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter to clean easily. With a strong 1875 watt motor it also has a cool shot feature making it more suited for drying thick hair.

Each ionic hair dryer includes both diffuser and concentrator attachments with powerful motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. Each dryer is lightweight and folds up to pack into carry-on luggage, only requiring a cheap power adapter for Palau to fit into a Palauan power outlet.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel blow dryer to buy for Palau?

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 Palau 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.

Palau power outlets and plug sockets

What is the electrical frequency used in Palau?

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

What mains voltage is used in Palau?

Power outlets in Palau are 120 volts.

Which plug adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in Palau?

Type A and B power outlets

Which plug adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in Palau?

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

  • Plug Type A - The wall socket, also called a type A power outlet, can be recognised by 2 thin slots adjacent to each other where the live and neutral pins sit.
  • Plug Type B - You can identify the power outlet by the two slots adjacent to each other for live and neutral blades with a semicircle hole below for the long grounded pin.

A Type B power adapter allows you to use a 120 volt hair dryer in Palau - read the step-by-step guide below for full details of how to use a travel adapter for Palau. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to confirm if you also need to use a voltage converter.  [4] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How do I switch the voltage on a dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which toggles between 2 voltages although some brands can automatically detect the voltage used in Palau.
  2. This switch or dial normally requires a small screwdriver or coin to set the dryer to the correct voltage between a 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
  3. Also it is worth jotting down the 2 switch positions as the painted numbers can occasionally fade on some models of travel dryer.

How can I use my dual voltage blow dryer in Palau?

  1. Check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it will work with a 120 volt power outlet.
  2. If the hair dryer supports dual voltage then ensure it is switched to the 100-127v range. This is normally found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug the dryer into the correct power adapter for Palau and then plug in the power adapter into the Palauan power outlet.
  4. Your hair dryer can now be operated in Palau.
  5. It's normal for dual voltage hair dryers which came from a country that operates with 220-240 volts to work slower when used in a country which uses 100-127 volt electricity.
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?

The method to tell if your hair dryer supports dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or the handle of your hair dryer. The location might depend on the make or model of your hair dryer, it could also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models will change automatically, however other hair dryers will have a button or switch which allows you to toggle between different regions.

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

Travelling to Palau with a hair dryer

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Palau?

Hotel hair dryer

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Palau?

Depending on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer might be available in the hotel room, either packed in the bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer, found in the bathroom or could potentially be a slower air hose variety.

When staying in budget hotels, motels and hostels a communal hair dryer could be offered at the reception but could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer availability you can either telephone your hotel in Palau or look on the hotel web site to find out if a suitable hairdryer available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but are normally rudimentary models with no diffuser and notorious for providing slow air speeds and low heat. For those worried about hygiene might want to remove any burnt hair from previous guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

Remember, if you are in doubt either call ahead to your hotel in Palau or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Should you bring a travel hair dryer or domestic hair dryer to Palau?

Bringing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to bringing your existing blow dryer to Palau (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 120 volt power outlets used with a Palauan power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Palau). Travel hair dryers typically feature a folding handle and are lighter, this will help reduce the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic blow dryer.

It is also worth bearing in mind that bringing your expensive domestic blow dryer might put it at risk because of potential damage or loss in transit by a baggage handlers. The cost and inconvenience of repairing an expensive specialised domestic blow dryer in Palau could be higher than buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [16] [AD]

Can I bring a blow dryer in my carry on?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I bring a blow dryer in my carry on?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA recommends that you should check that the airline that is taking you to Palau will allow a blow dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

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

Power converters for Palau

What is the difference between a voltage converter and a power adapter for Palau?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a voltage converter and a power adapter for Palau?

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Palau, but an expensive and bulkier power converter converts the voltage of 120 volts from a Palauan power outlet to work with a non-120 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

Can I use my hair dryer with a voltage converter for Palau?

A voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 120 volt power outlet used in Palau. Travellers wishing to bring their own hair dryer can use a power converter, however it might be more costly to purchase a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also, a travel hair dryer can be considerably smaller and lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for travelling. [7] [AD]

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

How to power a hair dryer in Palau using a Type B power adapter.

  1. Please check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 120 volt power outlet - if not then do not attempt these instructions because you could damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage hair dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 120 volt setting to use in Palau, refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. You'll need to bring a Type B plug adapter [4] if the type of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Palau. The power adapter will help convert different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet found in Palau by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 120 volt outlet.
  3. Start by taking the Type B plug adapter and plugging it in the Palauan power outlet. This power outlet, sometimes known as a Type B power outlet [3], can be recognised by 2 thin slots where the live and neutral blades slide into with a single hole below for the earth pin.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Palauan power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be used in Palau. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Palau using a type B power adapter

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

Instructions showing how to use a hair dryer in Palau using a three pronged Type A power adapter.

  1. Please check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 120 volt power outlet - if not then do not attempt these instructions because you could damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 120 volt setting to use in Palau - consult the manufacturers instructions for more information on how to do this.
  2. These instructions assume 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 you will still need to check that your hair dryer can work with a 120 volt power supply). So, if the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet used in Palau you'll need to bring a Type A plug adapter [6]. This plug adapter is designed to fit plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet used in Palau by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 120 volt supply.
  3. First you'll need to plug the Type A plug adapter in the power outlet. The wall outlet, sometimes called the Type A power outlet [5], can be recognised by the two slots next to each other for live and neutral blades.
  4. Then plug in your hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Palauan power outlet. You can now switch on the hair dryer in Palau. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Palau using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Palauan country Wiki 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. 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..
  9. 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..
  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. 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. 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.