How to use your hair dryer in Colombia

Colombian power outlet

Will my blow dryer work in Colombia?

First check your hair dryer can work in Colombia:

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 110 volt Colombian power outlet, however this is noticeably bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter will change the voltage but not the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Colombia, therefore check that the voltage transformer comes with an appropriate power adapter for Colombia otherwise you will also need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Also worth noting that your personal hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you could risk potential damage in your suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 110 volts you run a risk of blowing a fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Before attempting to use your hair dryer in Colombia please check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Colombia

Will my hair dryer work in Colombia?

This will depend on if your hair dryer can operate using the 110 volts which are used in Colombia. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to handle 110 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you should be able to use your hair dryer in Colombia. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2], read the section on will a power converter work with a hair dryer in Colombia for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Colombia

Choosing the best blow dryer

Bundled diffuser and concentrator attachments

Choosing the best blow dryer

When choosing the best travel hair dryer for Colombia look for a robust but light dual-voltage dryer that will operate with a 110 volt Colombian power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, long power cable and an ALCI safety plug. When drying thick hair look for a stronger 1600+ watt motor and included diffuser.

Things to consider when purchasing a new blow dryer

  1. Depending on your accommodation in Colombia you could find they have a wall mirror positioned some distance away from the nearest power outlet which makes it difficult to use the travel dryer, so when buying a hair dryer look for the model with the lengthiest power cord possible.
  2. It could be cheaper and more convenient to buy a new hair dryer that includes a concentrator and diffuser instead of scouring shops to look for more expensive third party attachments.
  3. Curlier or thicker hair could require a hair dryer which has a stronger motor. A high wattage ceramic model which includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster to avoid damage.
  4. Safe travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which reduces the danger of the motor overloading and starting electrical fires - you can idenfity these models with the 2 'reset' and 'test' switches found on the plug.
  5. The best travel hair dryers for styling should give control of both temperature and speed settings with high and low options - faster hotter speeds will dry hair quickly whilst slower speeds with lower temperatures reduce damage to hair.
  6. You shouldn't risk getting the cheapest dryer - as well as issues with safety there is also a greater chance that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to cheaper parts.
  7. Try to look for a lighter travel dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers which have folding handles will mean more room.
  8. Your travel hair dryer has to support dual voltage to operate in Colombia.
  9. Modern travel dryers feature a cool shot option for rapidly cooling hair down after drying to hold in the style but this option lacks in more compact models.
Which is a good compact travel hair dryer for Colombia?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

Which is a good compact travel hair dryer for Colombia?

  • With a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler includes cool shot that can will quickly cool hair down to give a longer lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot button, a tourmaline ceramic outlet meaning faster and safer styling, two heat options, a longer 1.8 metre power cord and includes a concentrator.

Each model is folding, includes an ALCI power plug to prevent overloading and has dual voltage making them ideal for travel to Colombia in carry on luggage when used along with a power adapter for a Colombian power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good blow dryer for thick or curly hair?

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

Which is the best small ionic dual voltage hair dryer for Colombia?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator

Which is the best small ionic dual voltage hair dryer for Colombia?

  • A Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable mini ionic hair dryer available to buy, this 1200 watt ceramic dryer will be suitable for quickly drying fine and thin hair whilst on the go.
  • The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is small enough to transport in a handbag because of the 10.5oz body with folding handle that also includes features found on larger blow dryers including a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect from heat damage during use which results in a glossy finish.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used with a suitable power adapter for a Colombian power outlet they will work in Colombia and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried around all day for drying on the go. They have a 1.5m electric power cable, a twin speed motor and include a concentrator.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is a good dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser attachment?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

What is a good dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser attachment?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65m power cord, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser but doesn't have a cool shot button.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a longer 1.82 metre power cord for greater flexibility when styling with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter for easy cleaning. It utilises a powerful 1875 watt motor including a cool shot option making it perfect for drying thicker hair.

Each ionic hair dryer features a concentrator and diffuser with powerful enough motors to make them the best hair dryers for thick hair. They will require a power adapter for Colombia to work with a Colombian power outlet, they are lightweight and will fold up to fit into a carry-on bag.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best travel hair dryer to buy for Colombia?

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 Colombia 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.

Colombia power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Colombia?

Power outlets in Colombia are 110 volts.

What electrical frequency is used with a Colombian power outlet?

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

Which travel adapter will you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Colombia?

Type A and B power outlets

Which travel adapter will you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Colombia?

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

  • Plug Type A - You can recognise the plug socket by the 2 slots next to each other for live and neutral blades.
  • Plug Type B - You can recognise the plug socket by the 2 slots parallel to each other with a semicircular shaped hole below for the slightly longer ground pin.

A Type B power adapter is suitable for powering a 110 volt hair dryer in Colombia, read the step-by-step instructions below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Colombia. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to see if you need to bring a voltage converter.  [4] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How do I switch a dual voltage hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have some type of switch which changes between 2 voltages however some hair dryers can automatically detect the voltage used in Colombia.
  2. The switch or dial normally requires a screwdriver or coin to change the dryer to the right voltage between the 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
  3. Also, it's worth making a note of the two switch positions because the painted numbers can occasionally rub off on some models.
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?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer supports dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, handle or base of your hair dryer. This location might depend on the make or model of your hair dryer and could also state on the box. Some dual voltage hair dryers will change automatically but other hair dryers will feature a switch which allows you to operate 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 110 volts used in Colombia then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Colombian 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 110 volts used in a Colombian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Colombia.
  • A larger range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Colombia or any other country.

How do I use a dual voltage hair dryer in Colombia?

  1. First check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or that it operates with a 110 volt power socket.
  2. If the dryer is dual voltage then make sure that it is switched to operate within the 100-127v range. The switch is normally found on the base or handle of the blow dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to turn.
  3. Plug your hair dryer into the correct power adapter for Colombia, then plug in the power adapter into the Colombian power outlet.
  4. The dryer is now ready to operate in Colombia.
  5. It is common on travel hair dryers which originated from a country that uses 220-240 volts to blow slower when used in a country which uses 100-127V electricity.

Travelling to Colombia with a hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Colombia?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Colombia?

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

In cheaper hotels, hostels and motels a shared hair dryer could be offered at reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer policy then either check on the booking web site or telephone the hotel in Colombia to find out what is available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but normally rudimentary models lacking a diffuser and notorious for providing slower air speeds and low heat. Those worried about hygiene should remove burnt hair from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

Remember, if you are in doubt either telephone ahead to the hotel in Colombia or use a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Can a blow dryer go in carry on to Colombia?

Folding travel hair dryer

Can a blow dryer go in carry on to Colombia?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA suggests that you should verify that the airline who is flying you to Colombia will allow hair dryers 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 for airport security, it can be packed away quickly and will avoid a tangle of power cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cords tightly around hair dryers). If you do intend to bring 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 bumps and knocks during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Should you bring a travel hair dryer or domestic blow dryer to Colombia?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer instead of bringing an existing domestic blow dryer to Colombia (typically marked with 'For domestic use only') as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 110 volt power outlets used with a Colombian power outlet (provided that you bring the correct plug adapter for Colombia). Travel hair dryers normally feature a collapsible handle and will be much lighter, this helps reduce the size and weight in luggage compared to packing a domestic blow dryer. Please note that packing your expensive domestic hair dryer might place it at risk because of potential loss or damage in your suitcase by airport baggage handlers in Colombia. The cost and inconvenience involved in replacing an expensive specialised blow dryer in Colombia could overshadow the cost of buying a much cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [17] [AD]

Power converters for Colombia

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

Voltage converter

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

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 Colombia, but a more expensive and heavier power converter will convert a 110 volt Colombian power outlet to work with a non-110 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

Do I need a voltage converter for Colombia to use my hair dryer?

A suitable power converter (or voltage transformer) allows your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 110 volt power outlet used in Colombia. Travellers wishing to bring along their own domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, however it could be considerably cheaper to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it will be to buy a power converter. A power converter is considerably heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable when travelling. [7] [AD]

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

Instructions showing how to power a hair dryer in Colombia by using a Type B power adapter.

  1. Check that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 110 volt power supply - but if it doesn't then don't proceed because you may damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage blow dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer ensure the switch is set to the 110 volt setting for use in Colombia, please consult the owners manual to find out where this switch is located.
  2. You will need to use a Type B plug adapter [4] if the shape of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same type of plug outlet used in Colombia. This power adapter will help adapt different plugs from other countries into an electrical outlet in Colombia by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 110 volt outlet.
  3. Start the process by inserting the Type B plug adapter in the wall outlet. You can recognise the plug outlet by 2 slots parallel to each other with a single semicircle shaped hole below for the ground pin.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Colombian power outlet. The hair dryer can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Colombia using a type B power adapter

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

How to use your hair dryer in Colombia by using a Type A power charger.

  1. Check that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 110 volt power supply - but if it doesn't then do not attempt these instructions because you may damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage blow dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure the switch is set to the 110 volt setting for use in Colombia; consult the owners manual to find out where this switch is located.
  2. Please check that you don't already own a hair dryer with a Type A plug - if it does then you won't need a power adapter (but please check that your hair dryer can work with a 110 volt power outlet). So, if the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet which is used in Colombia you will need to bring a Type A plug adapter [6]. The Type A plug adapter will help fit plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet used in Colombia simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 110 volt supply.
  3. Begin by taking the Type A plug adapter and inserting it into the Colombian power outlet. This wall supply, sometimes called a Type A power outlet [5], is recognised by two thin slots adjacent to each other.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Colombian power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be used in Colombia. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Colombia using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - wikipedia.org entry about Colombia
  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. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  17. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.