Which plug adapter will I need when using a hair dryer in The Ascension Islands?

Ascensionian Island power outlet

Can I use my hair dryer in The Ascension Islands?

First check your hair dryer can work in The Ascension Islands:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 240 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you'll only need to use a suitable power adapter listed below if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit.

If not then you can either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with an 240 volt Ascensionian Island 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 The Ascension Islands, therefore please check that the voltage transformer has the correct power adapter for The Ascension Islands otherwise you will still need to purchase another power adapter. Be aware that your existing hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you could risk damage in transit. [5] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 240 volts used in The Ascension Islands you run the potential risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or blowing a fuse. Prior to using your hair dryer in The Ascension Islands please check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in The Ascension Islands

Will my hair dryer work in The Ascension Islands?

That will depend on if your hair dryer can handle the 240 volts used in The Ascension Islands. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can handle 240 volts and you have the correct plug adapter then you'll be able to use your hair dryer in The Ascension Islands. If not then you will need to consider using either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter, read our guide on can you use a power converter with a domestic hair dryer in The Ascension Islands for help deciding which option is more suitable. [5] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for The Ascension Islands

What to look for when choosing a hair dryer

Multiple speed options on a travel hair dryer

What to look for when choosing a hair dryer

When choosing the best hair dryer for The Ascension Islands look for a sturdy but lightweight dual voltage dryer which operates with an 240 volt Ascensionian Island power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, ALCI safety plug and a long cable. If drying thick hair buy a model which includes a diffuser that uses a stronger 1600+ watt dryer.

The top 9 things to consider when purchasing a travel blow dryer

  1. Don't risk getting the cheapest travel dryer on the market - as well as concerns with safety there is also a greater risk that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to a poor construction.
  2. To function in The Ascension Islands a travel hair dryer needs to support dual voltage.
  3. The safest travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which minimises the danger of the motor overloading that could start a fire - you can recognise models by the two reset and test buttons.
  4. The 'cool shot' feature on modern travel dryers will quickly cool down the hair after drying to hold in a style but this feature could be missing in more compact models.
  5. If you have curlier or thicker hair then you could require a blow dryer which has a stronger motor - a high wattage ceramic model which has a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby preventing damage.
  6. Some hotel rooms might have a wall mirror installed some distance away from a convenient outlet which could make it cumbersome to operate the blow dryer, therefore when buying a blow dryer search for the longest power cord possible or use either a portable mirror or extension cable.
  7. Try looking 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.
  8. It could be more convenient and cheaper to buy a dryer which includes both a diffuser and concentrator rather than scouring stores looking for more expensive 3rd party attachments.
  9. Suitable hair dryers for styling give control of the temperature and speed with low and high options; hotter faster speeds will quickly dry thicker hair whilst slower speeds with lower temperatures reduce damage to your hair.
What is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

What is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor 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 long 1.82m power cable for greater flexibility when drying with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter for easy cleaning. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it also has a cool shot feature making it more suited for styling thicker hair.

Both ionic hair dryers include a concentrator and diffuser with strong motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. Both only require a cheap power adapter for The Ascension Islands to fit into an Ascensionian Island power outlet, each dryer is lightweight and folds up to fit into a carry-on travel bag.  [6] [6] [7] [AD]

What is the best small folding dual voltage hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator

What is the best small folding dual voltage hair dryer?

  • For quickly drying thin and fine hair on the go the 1200 watt ceramic Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable small ionic blowdryer available to buy.
  • For a blow dryer which is both lightweight and small enough to transport 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 normally found on bulkier hairdryers.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used with the right plug adapter for an Ascensionian Island power outlet they will work in The Ascension Islands and fold conveniently enough to be carried around during the day for styling on the go. They are two speed, have a 1.5 metre power cable and include a concentrator.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is the best compact dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with attached concentrator

What is the best compact dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot?

  • With a strong 2 speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features cool shot that can be used to quickly cool down hair to give a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has a cool shot setting, a ceramic tourmaline air outlet resulting in faster and safer drying, 2 heat options, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cord 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 The Ascension Islands in carry on luggage if used with a power adapter for an Ascensionian Island power outlet.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best blow dryer for thick curly hair?

Thicker hair can take longer to dry and will be hard to dry without your hair going frizzy, the best option will be an ionic blow dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly without frizz. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer will be suitable as they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers - avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor that is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [6] [7] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best hair dryer for The Ascension Islands?

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 The Ascension Islands 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.

The Ascension Islands power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in The Ascension Islands?

Power outlets in The Ascension Islands are 240 volts.

What frequency is used in an Ascensionian Island power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current in an Ascensionian Island power outlet is 50 Hz. [12]

Which plug adapter will you need for using a hair dryer in The Ascension Islands?

Type G power outlets are used in The Ascension Islands. You can recognise the wall socket by three rectangular holes containing plastic shutters in a triangular configuration. A Type G plug adapter will allow you to use a 240 volt hair dryer in The Ascension Islands - read the step-by-step guide below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in The Ascension Islands with a plug adapter. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to check if you also need to use a voltage converter.  [4] [13] [AD]

Which plug adapter will you need for using a hair dryer in The Ascension Islands?

Dual voltage hair dryers

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

A simple way to tell if your hair dryer can accept dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, handle or base. This location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer and could also be written on the box. Some dual voltage models will change automatically, however 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 240 volts used in The Ascension Islands then you should be able to use your hair dryer with an Ascensionian Island 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 240 volts used in an Ascensionian Island power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in The Ascension Islands.
  • A larger voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in The Ascension Islands or any other country.

How should you switch a dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which selects between two ranges of voltages although some hair dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from an Ascensionian Island power outlet.
  2. This switch or dial normally requires a small screwdriver or coin to change the hair dryer to the right voltage between a 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
  3. Also it is worth jotting down the 2 switch positions as the painted numbers can sometimes rub off on certain models.

How do I use my dual voltage blow dryer in The Ascension Islands?

  1. Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and it works with a 240 volt power socket.
  2. If your dryer is dual voltage please make sure that it is switched to the 220-240v range. This is normally found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and requires a coin or screwdriver to turn.
  3. Plug your dryer into the power adapter for The Ascension Islands, also plug in the power adapter into the Ascensionian Island power outlet.
  4. It's common on most travel hair dryer models operating in the 220-240v range to only work safely on a low speed setting; but the speed should be sufficient for drying hair. Please check the hair dryer guidelines to find out if this is relevant for your model of dual voltage dryer to avoid the risk of overheating.
  5. Your hair dryer can now be operated in The Ascension Islands.

Travelling to The Ascension Islands with a hair dryer

Can a blow dryer go in my carry on?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can a blow dryer go in my carry on?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA suggests that you should verify that your airline who is flying you to The Ascension Islands will allow blow dryers 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 power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends 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 knocks and bumps during your journey.   [14] [15] [16] [AD]

Is it safe to bring my domestic hair dryer to The Ascension Islands?

Packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing an existing hair dryer to The Ascension Islands (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 240 volt power outlets used with an Ascensionian Island power outlet (as long as you bring the correct power adapter for The Ascension Islands). Travel hair dryers normally feature a folding handle and are much lighter, this will help reduce the size and weight in luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer.

Note that packing an expensive domestic blow dryer might place it at risk due to potential damage or loss in transit by airport baggage handlers. The costs involved in replacing or repairing an expensive quality blow dryer in The Ascension Islands might be higher than buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before your trip .  [15] [AD]

Do hotel rooms in The Ascension Islands have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in The Ascension Islands have hair dryers?

Depending on the hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the room, either packed away in a bedroom cupboard, drawer or wardrobe, found attached to a bathroom wall or could potentially be a slower air hose variety. In budget hostels, hotels and motels a shared hair dryer might be available at reception but might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer availability you can either call ahead to the hotel in The Ascension Islands or check on the booking web site to find out what is available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but are normally rudimentary models with no diffuser and notorious for low heat and slower air speeds. Those concerned with hygiene should check for the burnt hair from other 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 the hotel in The Ascension Islands or use a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Power converters for The Ascension Islands

Do you need a converter in The Ascension Islands to use your hair dryer?

The correct power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 240 volt power outlet used in The Ascension Islands. A power converter is suitable for travellers who want to use their existing hair dryer, however it could be more expensive to buy a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also worth noting, a travel hair dryer can be substantially lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for travelling. [5] [AD]

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) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in The Ascension Islands, but a heavy and bulkier power converter converts the voltage of 240 volts from an Ascensionian Island power outlet to work with a non-240 volt hair dryer. [5] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in The Ascension Islands using a type G power adapter

A guide showing how to use a hair dryer in The Ascension Islands with a Type G travel charger.

  1. Ensure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 240 volt power supply - if not then don't continue because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Some dual voltage blow dryers will typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 240 volt setting; please consult the owners manual for more details on how to do this.
  2. You will need to use a Type G plug adapter [4] if the type of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the power outlet which is used in The Ascension Islands. The power adapter is designed to convert different plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet found in The Ascension Islands simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 240 volt outlet.
  3. Begin by taking the Type G plug adapter and plugging it in the Ascensionian Island power outlet. This wall outlet (known as a Type G power outlet [3]) can be recognised by 3 vertical rectangular slots containing shutters forming a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Ascensionian Island power outlet. The hair dryer can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in The Ascension Islands using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - wikipedia entry about The Ascension Islands
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  4. Type G plug adapter - An earthed BS 1363 certified UK power adapter, featuring a fuse to protect against overload and consequent fire risks. Ideal for use in over 50 countries, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and also in international cities like Dubai and Hong Kong..
  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. 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..
  7. 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..
  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. 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..
  11. 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..
  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.