Using your hair dryer in Chile

Chilean power outlet

Can I use my blow dryer in Chile?

Check that your hair dryer can work in Chile:

If not then you can either:

Buy a travel hair dryer for Chile
  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 220 volt Chilean power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter will change the voltage but won't change the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Chile, therefore please check that the voltage transformer has a power adapter for Chile otherwise you will also need to bring another power adapter. Please note - your domestic hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you could risk damage in your luggage. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 220 volts used in Chile you run a risk of an electrical fire hazard, a blown fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Before using your hair dryer in Chile please read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Chile

Will my hair dryer work in Chile?

This depends on if your hair dryer can handle the 220 volts which are used in Chile:

Best travel hair dryers for Chile

Choosing the best travel hair dryer for Chile

A hair dryer cool shot button

Choosing the best travel hair dryer for Chile

When looking for the best travel hair dryer for Chile choose a strong but light dual-voltage model that will work with a 220 volt Chilean power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, long cable and a safety plug. If drying thick hair look for a dryer with a higher 1600+ watt motor and bundled diffuser.

What should you look for when purchasing a hair dryer?

  1. Look for a lighter travel hair dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models which have a folding handle mean more room for packing other items.
  2. Ideal travel hair dryers allow you to alter the temperature and speed settings with 2 options, a slower speed with a lower temperature will reduce damage to hair whilst a faster hotter speed can dry thicker hair faster.
  3. A cool shot feature will quickly cool hair down after drying to hold in a style but this option might be lacking in more compact models.
  4. It might be cheaper and more convenient purchasing a new hair dryer that is supplied with a diffuser and concentrator from the manufacturer instead of scouring shops looking for expensive third party attachments.
  5. Your travel hair dryer needs to support dual voltage to work with a 220 volt Chilean power outlet.
  6. Depending on your accommodation there might be a fixed mirror installed away from the nearest outlet which could make it difficult to use the hair dryer, therefore when buying a blow dryer search for the longest power cord possible.
  7. Don't risk buying the cheapest hair dryer available, as well as issues with safety there is a greater chance that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to cheaper components.
  8. If you have thicker hair then you might require a blow dryer which has a stronger motor - a high wattage ceramic model that has a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby preventing damage.
  9. The safest travel hair dryers will include an ALCI safety plug which minimises the danger of the motor overloading that could start an electrical fire - these are identified with the 2 reset and test switches on the plug.
What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium travel hair dryer

What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer?

  • A Conair MiniPRO is the cheapest small ionic blow dryer available on the market, the 1200 watt ceramic dryer is best suited for quickly drying fine or thin hair whilst on the go.
  • For a folding dryer which is small enough to carry in a handbag then the 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat for a glossy finish this dryer manages to incorporate options which are typically found on bulkier blow dryers.

Both of these mini hair dryers have dual voltage and when used with the right power adapter for a Chilean power outlet they should work in Chile and fold conveniently enough to be carried for styling on the go. They have a 1.5 metre electric power cord, have a 2 speed motor and include a concentrator.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is a good hair dryer for thick curly hair?

Thicker hair takes much longer to dry and can be hard to do so without hair turning frizzy, the best option for this type of hair is an ionic blow dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly. Both an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic are recommended as they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor that is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [10] [11] [AD]

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with cool shot for Chile?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with cool shot for Chile?

  • A Conair Compact Styler has a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and includes a cool shot setting which can will rapidly cool hair down.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, uses a tourmaline ceramic air outlet for negative ions meaning safer and faster styling, twin heat options, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cable and comes with a concentrator.

Both models fold, include an ALCI power plug which prevents overloading and support dual voltage making both ideal for visiting Chile in carry on luggage if used along with a power adapter for a Chilean power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

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

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

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

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65 metre electric power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but it is missing cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a longer 1.82m power cable for greater freedom when drying with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter for cleaning. It utilises a strong 1875 watt motor including a cool shot option making it more suited for drying thick hair.

Each ionic hair dryer includes both concentrator and diffuser attachments with strong enough motors to make them the best hair dryers suitable for thick hair. They only require a suitable cheap power adapter for Chile to work with a Chilean power outlet, each dryer is lightweight and folds up to fit into a carry-on travel bag.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel blow dryer for Chile?

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 Chile 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.

Chile power outlets and plug sockets

What frequency is used in a Chilean power outlet?

The frequency in a Chilean power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]

What mains voltage is used in Chile?

The normal residential voltage in Chile is 220 volts.

Which power adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in Chile?

Type C and L power outlets

Which power adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in Chile?

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

  • Plug Type C - You can identify the wall socket by two adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral.
  • Plug Type L - You can recognise this squashed hexagon shaped wall socket by three round holes in a line for live, neutral and earth. Please note there are two types of Type L wall socket, one rated at 10 amps and one for 16 amps. The 10 amp wall socket has 4mm round pins which are spaced 5.5mm apart and the 16 amp version has larger 5mm thick pins spaced 8mm apart.

A Type L plug adapter will allow you to use a 220 volt hair dryer in Chile - read the step-by-step guide below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Chile with a plug adapter. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to use a voltage converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Buy a plug adapter for Chile

Dual voltage hair dryers

How do I use my dual voltage blow dryer in Chile?

  1. Check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it will operate with a 220 volt power socket.
  2. If your dryer supports dual voltage then make sure that it is set to work in the 220-240V range. This is usually found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug the dryer into the correct power adapter for Chile and then plug in the power adapter into the Chilean power outlet.
  4. It is normal for a majority of dual voltage hair dryers operating in the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on their lowest setting, however this temperature and speed should be sufficient enough for drying hair. We recommend checking the hair dryer guidelines to see if this rule is appropriate for your model of dual voltage dryer to avoid the risk of overheating.
  5. Your hair dryer can now be used in Chile.

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

  1. Most models of dual voltage hair dryers have some type of dial or switch which selects between two voltages although some hair dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from a Chilean power outlet.
  2. This switch or dial normally requires a small screwdriver or coin to set the hair dryer to the right voltage between the 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
  3. As well as changing this it's worth noting down the two switch positions as the painted numbers can occasionally fade on some models of travel dryer.
How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer supports a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or plug of the hair dryer. The location might vary depending on the make or model of your hair dryer, it could also be written on the box. Some dual voltage models can change automatically but other hair dryer models will feature a button which allows you to toggle between different voltage ranges.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Chile then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Chilean 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 220 volts used in a Chilean power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Chile.
  • A large range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Chile or any other country.

Travelling to Chile with a hair dryer

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

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to packing an existing domestic hair dryer to Chile (typically marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Chilean power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Chile). Some types of travel hair dryer will normally feature a collapsing handle and will be lighter which helps in reducing the size and weight when packed in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer. Please note that bringing your expensive domestic blow dryer could put it at risk because of potential damage or loss in your suitcase by airline baggage handlers. The inconvenience and costs involved in replacing or repairing an expensive quality domestic blow dryer in Chile might be higher than buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case .  [16] [AD]

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

Hotel hair dryer

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

It depends on the hotel or bed and breakfast and the quality of the accommodation. Hotel hair dryers are normally found in the bathroom, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or might be found in the bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer. When staying in cheaper motels, hotels and hostels a shared hair dryer might be available at the reception but might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer availability you can either look on the hotel web site or telephone your hotel in Chile to find out if a suitable hairdryer available to guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are usable but are normally basic models lacking a diffuser and notorious for low heat and providing slow air speeds. For those worried about hygiene might want to check for grime from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

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

Is a hairdryer allowed onboard a plane in Chile?

Folding travel hair dryer

Is a hairdryer allowed onboard a plane in Chile?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also suggests that you should verify that the airline which is flying you to Chile will allow a hair dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing the hair dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible by airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cables tightly around electronic items such as blow dryers). If you do 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 offers the greatest protection against drops and knocks during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Power converters for Chile

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a power converter for Chile?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a power converter for Chile?

An expensive and bulky power converter will convert a 220 volt Chilean power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer, however a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Chile. [7] [AD]

Do I need a power converter to use a hair dryer in Chile?

The correct type voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 220 volt power outlet used in Chile. Travellers wishing to use their existing domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, but it could be more expensive to buy a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be noticeably lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suitable for packing. [7] [AD]

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

A guide showing how to use your hair dryer in Chile with a Type C travel charger.

  1. Please check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 220 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't continue because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting; please refer to the user guide to find out how to do this.
  2. You will need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4] if the type of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Chile. The plug adapter is designed to convert different plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet found in Chile simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Plug the Type C plug adapter into the power outlet. The wall outlet can be recognised by 2 adjacent holes.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Chilean power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Chile using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Chile using a type L power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Chile using a three pronged Type L power charger.

  1. Make sure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 220 volt power outlet - if not then don't continue because you could create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Before using a travel hair dryer make sure you have set it to the 220 volt setting to use in Chile, please refer to the manufacturers instructions to find out where this switch is.
  2. You will need to use a Type L plug adapter [6] if the type of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the power outlet which is used in Chile. The Type L plug adapter is designed to convert different plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet used in Chile 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 220 volt outlet.
  3. Firstly plug in the Type L plug adapter in the power outlet. You can identify the hexagon shaped power supply by the three large adjecent holes in a line. Note that there are two variations of Type L plug supply rated for 10 and 16 amps. The 10 amp version has 4mm round pins spaced 5.5mm apart, and the 16 amp version has slightly larger 5mm thick pins which are spaced 8mm apart.
  4. After that plug in your hair dryer into the Type L plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Chilean power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Chile using a type L power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia page about Chile
  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 L power outlet
  6. Type L plug adapter - A Type L travel adapter is compatible with Italy's 10A and 16A grounded outlets and can also be used in other countries like Chile and Uruguay which use the Italian standard CEI 23-50..
  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.