Using your hair dryer in Tonga

Tongan power outlet

Will my hairdryer work in Tonga?

Check that your hair dryer can work in Tonga:

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 240 volt Tongan power outlet, however this is considerably heavier, bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter changes the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Tonga, therefore please check that the power converter comes with the right power adapter for Tonga otherwise you will still need to purchase another power adapter. Please note - your own existing hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you could risk damage in your suitcase. [5] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 240 volts you run the risk of a blown fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Before using your hair dryer in Tonga check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Tonga

Will my hair dryer work in Tonga?

That will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 240 volts which are used in Tonga:

Best travel hair dryers for Tonga

Choosing the best travel blow dryer

A dual voltage switch on a hair dryer

Choosing the best travel blow dryer

When looking for the best hair dryer for Tonga choose a strong but light dual voltage dryer which operates with a 240 volt Tongan power outlet power outlet with an ALCI safety plug, folding handle and a long cable. When drying thicker hair look for a dryer with a faster 1600+ watt motor and bundled diffuser.

Nine tips for purchasing a travel blow dryer

  1. Some hotel rooms might have a wall mirror positioned away from a outlet which makes it difficult to dry hair, so when buying a travel blow dryer shop for the unit with the lengthiest power cord available or use either an extension cable or hand mirror.
  2. It might be cheaper to purchase a new dryer which includes both a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer instead of scouring shops looking for more expensive 3rd party attachments.
  3. Thicker or curlier hair may require a blow dryer which has a more powerful motor. A higher wattage ceramic dryer which has a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby preventing damage.
  4. The safest travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will reduce the danger of the motor overloading leading to starting a fire - you can recognise these models by the the two reset and test switches on the plug.
  5. Ideal travel hair dryers will give control of the temperature and speed settings with two options - a faster hotter speed can dry wet hair quickly whereas a slower speed with a lower temperature will reduce damage to your hair.
  6. 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 travelling abroad due to a poor construction.
  7. Try looking for a lightweight travel dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models which have a handle which folds will mean more space.
  8. In order to work with a 240 volt Tongan power outlet a travel hair dryer needs to support dual voltage.
  9. A cool shot button on modern blow dryers will quickly cool down the hair after drying which will hold the style but this option might be lacking in smaller or cheaper models.
What is a good dual voltage travel hair dryer?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle

What is a good dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  • With a strong twin speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features cool shot which can will rapidly cool hair down to give a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, uses a tourmaline ceramic air outlet resulting in safer styling, twin heat options, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cord and also includes a concentrator attachment.

Both models fold, include an ALCI safety plug to prevent power overloads and has dual voltage making both ideal for visiting Tonga in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a Tongan power outlet.  [6] [6] [7] [AD]

What is a good hair dryer for thick hair?

Thick hair can take longer to dry and will be hard to do so without hair turning frizzy, so the best option will be an ionic dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are suitable because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [8] [9] [AD]

What is the best mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage for Tonga?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium travel hair dryer

What is the best mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage for Tonga?

  • If you want to dry thin or fine hair on the go the ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the best value mini ionic hairdryer available to buy.
  • For a blow dryer which is compact enough to carry in a handbag then the 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage this dryer manages to incorporate options which are typically reserved for larger dryers.

Both of these mini hair dryers have dual voltage when used in combination with a suitable plug adapter for a Tongan power outlet they will work in Tonga and fold conveniently enough to be carried for drying on the go. They include a concentrator, have 1.5m power cables and a two speed motor.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best folding dual voltage travel hair dryer with a diffuser?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

What is the best folding dual voltage travel hair dryer with a diffuser?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m power cable, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but it doesn't have a cool shot option.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a lengthy 1.82m power cable for greater freedom when styling with an ALCI safety plug and removable filter for easy cleaning. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it includes a cool shot option making it suitable for drying thick hair.

Both ionic travel hair dryers feature both concentrator and diffuser attachments with powerful motors to make them the best travel hair dryers suitable for thick hair. They are both lightweight and fold up to pack into carry-on luggage, only requiring a suitable plug adapter for Tonga to work with a Tongan power outlet.  [8] [9] [9] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

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

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 Tonga 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.

Tonga power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Tonga?

The common residential voltage in Tonga is 240 volts.

What is the electrical frequency used in Tonga?

The frequency of the current from a Tongan power outlet is 50 Hz. [12]

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

The type of power outlet used in Tonga is type I. You can recognise this plug outlet by the three slots for the live, neutral and earth. A suitable travel adapter to bring to use a 240 volt hair dryer in Tonga is a Type I plug adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of how to use a travel adapter for Tonga. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to check if you have to bring a power converter.  [4] [13] [AD]

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

Dual voltage hair dryers

How should you change the voltage on a dual voltage hair dryer?

  1. Most brands of dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which toggles between 2 voltages although some hair dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from a Tongan power outlet.
  2. The dial or switch will normally require a small screwdriver or coin to set the dryer to the correct voltage between a 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
  3. Also it is worth making a note of the two switch positions as the painted numbers are prone to rubbing off on certain models.

How do you use your dual voltage hair dryer in Tonga?

  1. Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it will work with a 240 volt power outlet.
  2. If the hair dryer is dual voltage please make sure that it is set to operate within the 220-240 volt range. The switch is normally found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the power adapter for Tonga, also plug in the power adapter into the Tongan power outlet.
  4. It's normal for a majority of dual voltage hair dryers operating in the 220-240v range to only work safely on a low speed setting - however this temperature and speed should be sufficient for drying hair. Always check the manufacturers instructions to see if this rule is appropriate for your model of dual voltage dryer to prevent overheating.
  5. The dryer can now be used in Tonga.
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?

One method to tell if your hair dryer can handle a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, handle or base of your hair dryer. The location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer and should also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models can change automatically, however other hair dryers will have a button or switch which allows you to toggle between different voltage ranges depending on which country you are in.

  • Single voltage could say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 240 volts used in Tonga then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Tongan 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 240 volts used in a Tongan power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Tonga.
  • 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 Tonga or any other country if these numbers are shown.

Travelling to Tonga with a hair dryer

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

Hair dryer attached to hotel desk

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

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

If staying in cheaper motels, hotels and hostels a shared hair dryer might be available at reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer availability you can either check on the booking web site or call ahead to the hotel in Tonga to find out what type of hairdryer is available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but are normally basic models lacking a diffuser, notorious for low heat and slower air speeds. For those worried about hygiene might want to remove any burnt hair from other guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

Guests who are uncertain that a suitable or hygienic hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer.  [2] [AD]

Can I carry on a blow dryer to Tonga?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I carry on a blow dryer to Tonga?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also suggests that you should verify that your airline who is taking you to Tonga 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 for airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cords tightly around electronic items). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against knocks and drops during your journey.   [14] [15] [16] [AD]

Is it safe to bring my domestic hair dryer to Tonga?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer rather than packing an existing domestic hair dryer to Tonga as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 240 volt power outlets used with a Tongan power outlet (as long as you bring the correct power adapter for Tonga). Travel hair dryers typically feature a folding handle and are much lighter which helps in reducing the size and weight when packed in luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer.

It is also worth bearing in mind that bringing your expensive domestic blow dryer might place it at risk due to potential loss or damage in your luggage by airline baggage handlers. The cost and inconvenience of repairing an expensive specialised domestic blow dryer in Tonga might overshadow the costs of purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [15] [AD]

Power converters for Tonga

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

Voltage converter

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

A heavy and bulky power converter will convert a 240 volt Tongan power outlet to work with a non-240 volt hair dryer, but a more lightweight and cheaper power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Tonga. [5] [AD]

Do you need a converter for Tonga to use a hair dryer?

A suitable voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 240 volt power outlet used in Tonga. Travellers wishing to bring their own hair dryer can use a power converter, but it could be more expensive to buy a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be significantly smaller and lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for travelling. [5] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Tonga using a type I power adapter

A page showing how to use a hair dryer in Tonga using a Type I travel charger.

  1. Ensure that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 240 volt power outlet - if not then do not attempt these instructions as you might create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer make sure the switch is set to accept 240 volts, please refer to the user guide for more information on how to do this.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Tonga you'll need to buy a Type I plug adapter [4]. This plug adapter is designed to convert different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet in Tonga simply 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 240 volt supply.
  3. Start by taking the Type I plug adapter and plugging it in the Tongan power outlet. You can recognise this plug supply by the three slots for the live, neutral and earth.
  4. After that plug in your hair dryer into the Type I plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Tongan power outlet.
  6. Your hair dryer should now be ready to use. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Tonga using a type I power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Tonga Wikipedia page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type I power outlet
  4. Type I plug adapter - A Type I electrical adapter, compliant with AS/NZS 3112, fits in a standard Australia electrical outlet. This adapter features two flat pins in an inverted V-shape with an earthing pin and is also commonly used in New Zealand, China, and Argentina..
  5. 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..
  6. 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..
  7. 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..
  8. 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..
  9. 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..
  10. 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..
  11. 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..
  12. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  13. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  14. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  15. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  16. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.