Which plug adapter will you need to use a hair dryer in Iceland?

Iceland power outlet

Will my blow dryer work in Iceland?

First check your hair dryer can work in Iceland:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can tell) then you'll only need to bring the correct power adapter listed on this page 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 230 volt Iceland power outlet, however this is substantially heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter changes the voltage but not the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Iceland, so check that your power converter includes the correct power adapter for Iceland otherwise you will also need to purchase another power adapter. Note - your own existing hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you could risk damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts you run the risk of an electrical fire hazard, a blown fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Prior to using your hair dryer in Iceland please check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Iceland

Will my hair dryer work in Iceland?

This will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 230 volts used in Iceland:

Best travel hair dryers for Iceland

How to choose the best hair dryer

A hair dryer cool shot button

How to choose the best hair dryer

When looking for the best travel hair dryer for Iceland choose a robust but lightweight dual-voltage dryer which works with an 230 volt Iceland power outlet power outlet, includes a long cable, ALCI safety plug and folding handle. When drying thicker hair buy a dryer with a stronger 1600+ watt dryer and bundled diffuser.

The top nine things to look for when buying a new travel blow dryer

  1. Ideal hair dryers for styling should let you to control both temperature and speed settings with different options; lower temperatures with slower speeds reduce damage to your hair and a faster hotter speed can quickly dry thicker hair.
  2. It might be cheaper to buy a dryer which includes a diffuser and concentrator from the manufacturer instead of scouring stores to look for expensive 3rd party attachments.
  3. Look for lighter travel hair dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models which have folding handles mean more space to pack other items.
  4. Depending on the hotel room in Iceland there could be a wall mirror positioned away from a convenient power outlet which makes it cumbersome to dry hair, so find the longest power cord available or bring either a hand mirror or a power extension cord.
  5. Curlier or thicker hair could need a blow dryer which has a stronger motor - a higher wattage ceramic dryer that includes a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby preventing damage.
  6. Modern travel dryers might include a 'cool shot' option for rapidly cooling down the hair after drying to hold the style but this feature is missing in cheaper models.
  7. Safe travel hair dryers will include an ALCI safety plug which minimises the risk of the motor overloading and starting fires; you can recognise these by 'test' and 'reset' switches on the plug.
  8. In order to work in Iceland your travel hair dryer needs to be dual voltage.
  9. You shouldn't risk getting the cheapest hair dryer on the market - as well as safety issues there is also a greater chance that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to a flimsy construction.

What is the best blow dryer for thick and curly hair?

Thick hair will take much longer to dry and might be hard to do so without the hair going frizzy. The best option is an ionic hair dryer and for curly thick hair we suggest a diffuser as both are suitable to dry and manage hair smoothly. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer will be suitable because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor that is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [8] [9] [AD]

What is the best compact travel hair dryer?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

What is the best compact travel hair dryer?

  • Using a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features a cool shot setting that can will rapidly cool down hair which gives it a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has a cool shot setting, uses a tourmaline ceramic outlet for negative ions meaning safer and quicker drying, 2 heat options, a longer 1.8 metre power cable and also includes a concentrator attachment.

Each model is folding, has an ALCI plug which prevents power overloads and has dual voltage making them perfect for visiting Iceland in carry on luggage if used along with a power adapter for an Iceland power outlet.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is a good mini ionic travel hair dryer with dual voltage for Iceland?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium travel hair dryer

What is a good mini ionic travel hair dryer with dual voltage for Iceland?

  • For quickly drying thin and fine hair whilst on the go then a ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the best value mini ionic blow dryer available to buy.
  • A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is compact enough to carry in a purse because of a 10.5 ounce body and folding handle and also includes options found on larger hair dryers including a tourmaline outlet which can emit infrared heat to protect against heat damage which results in a glossy finish.

Both mini hair dryers are dual voltage when used along with the right power adapter for an Iceland power outlet they will work in Iceland and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried for drying on the go. Both include a concentrator attachment, have 1.5m power cords and have a 2 speed motor.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

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

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

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

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65 metre power cable, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser but is missing cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a generous 1.82 metre electric power cord for greater freedom when drying with an ALCI power plug and removable filter to clean. It has a strong 1875 watt motor including a cool shot feature making it perfect for styling thick hair.

Both ionic travel hair dryers feature both diffuser and concentrator with powerful enough motors to make them the most suitable blow dryers for thick hair. They will require a cheap power adapter for Iceland to work with an Iceland power outlet, they are lightweight and will fold up to fit in a carry-on travel bag.  [8] [9] [9] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best hair dryer for Iceland?

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 Iceland 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.

Iceland power outlets and plug sockets

What frequency is used in Iceland?

The frequency from an Iceland power outlet is 50Hz. [14]

What is the voltage in Iceland?

Power outlets in Iceland are 230 volts.

Which plug adapter will you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Iceland?

Type C and F power outlets

Which plug adapter will you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Iceland?

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

  • Plug Type C - You can recognise this power socket by two circular holes next to each other for live and neutral.
  • Plug Type F - The round plug outlet can be recognised by the two 4.8mm holes 19 mm next to each other where the two pins go and a pair of two grounding clips above and below.

A Type F power adapter will allow you to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Iceland - read the simple instructions below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Iceland using a travel adapter. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also need to use a voltage converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How do you use a dual voltage hair dryer in Iceland?

  1. First ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer and that it operates with a 230 volt power socket.
  2. If the hair dryer is dual voltage then ensure that it is set to work in the 220-240v range. This is normally found on the handle or base of the hair dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to switch.
  3. Plug the dryer into the correct power adapter for Iceland, also plug in the power adapter into the Iceland power outlet.
  4. It's common on most dual voltage hair dryers operating within the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on their lowest speed setting - but the speed and temperature should be sufficient enough for drying hair. We recommend checking the manufacturers instructions to find out if this is relevant for your model of dual voltage dryer to avoid the risk of overheating.
  5. Your dryer is now ready to be used in Iceland.

How can I change the voltage on a travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have some type of dial or switch which changes between 2 sets of voltages however some dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from an Iceland power outlet.
  2. This switch or dial requires either a screwdriver or coin to set the hair dryer to the right voltage between the 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
  3. As well as changing this over it's worth jotting down the 2 switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to rubbing 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?

A simple way to tell if your hair dryer supports a dual voltage outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, handle or base of the hair dryer. The location will depend on the make or model of your hair dryer and should also be written on the box. Some dual voltage models might change automatically but other hair dryers will have a button which allows you to operate between different voltage ranges.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Iceland then you should be able to use your hair dryer with an Iceland 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 230 volts used in an Iceland power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Iceland.
  • A large voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Iceland or any other country.

Travelling to Iceland with a hair dryer

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

Hotel hair dryer

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

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

When staying in budget hostels, hotels and motels a shared hair dryer might be offered at the reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer availability then either look on the hotel web site or call ahead to the hotel in Iceland to find out what is available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are usable but typically basic models lacking a diffuser and notorious for providing slow air speeds and low heat. Those worried about hygiene might want to remove burnt hair cuticles from other guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

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

Is it safe to bring a domestic blow dryer to Iceland?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer instead of bringing your existing domestic hair dryer to Iceland (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with an Iceland power outlet (as long as you bring the correct plug adapter for Iceland). Certain types of travel hair dryer will normally feature a collapsible handle and are much lighter, this will help in reducing the size and weight when packed in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer.

Be aware that packing your expensive domestic blow dryer might put it at risk because of potential loss or damage in transit by a baggage handlers. The inconvenience and costs involved in replacing an expensive specialised domestic hair dryer in Iceland could be higher than buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [16] [AD]

Is a blow dryer allowed onboard a plane to Iceland?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Is a blow dryer allowed onboard a plane to Iceland?

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

Packing the hair dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible when going through airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly and will avoid a tangle of cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cables tightly around electronic items). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this provides the greatest protection against knocks and bumps during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Power converters for Iceland

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

Voltage converter

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

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Iceland, however a heavy and bulkier power converter converts a 230 volt Iceland power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

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

The correct model of power converter (or voltage transformer) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 230 volt power outlet used in Iceland. A power converter is more suited for travellers wishing to use their own hair dryer, however it could be more expensive to purchase a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also, a power converter is noticeably bulkier and heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable when packing in luggage. [7] [AD]

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

A guide showing how to power your hair dryer in Iceland using a Type C power adapter.

  1. Ensure that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply but if it doesn't then don't proceed as you could damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel hair dryer ensure you have set it to accept 230 volts - refer to the user guide to find out where the switch is located.
  2. You'll need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4] if the shape of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the power outlet which is used in Iceland. This plug adapter will adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet in Iceland simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Begin the process by taking the Type C plug adapter and plugging it into the power outlet. You can recognise this power outlet by two round holes next to each other for live and neutral pins.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Iceland power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Iceland using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Iceland using a type F power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Iceland with a 2 prong Type F power charger.

  1. Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then do not proceed because you could blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Travel hair dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer ensure you have set it to accept 230 volts for use in Iceland - please refer to the owners manual for more details on where the switch is found.
  2. You'll need to bring a Type F plug adapter [6] if the type of power outlet used in Iceland isn't the same shape as the plug of your hair dryer. This Type F plug adapter will fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for a power outlet in Iceland simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Firstly plug in the Type F plug adapter in the Iceland power outlet. You can recognise the wall supply by the two circular adjacent holes next to each other where the pins go, plus a pair of metal grounding clips on the top and bottom.
  4. Next plug in your hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Iceland power outlet. You can now switch on your blow dryer in Iceland. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Iceland using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia.org entry about Iceland
  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 F power outlet
  6. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  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. 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. 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. 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.