How do I use my hair dryer in Guatemala?

Guatemalan power outlet

Can I use my blow dryer in Guatemala?

First check that your hair dryer can work in Guatemala:

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 120 volt Guatemalan power outlet, however this is significantly heavier, bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but won't change the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Guatemala, so check that your power converter includes an appropriate power adapter for Guatemala otherwise you will still need to bring a seperate power adapter. Please note - your domestic hair dryer might not be suited for travel and you could risk damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 120 volts used in Guatemala you run the potential risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or a blown fuse. Before attempting to use your hair dryer in Guatemala check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Guatemala

Will my hair dryer work in Guatemala?

It depends on if your hair dryer can handle the 120 volts which are used in Guatemala:

Best travel hair dryers for Guatemala

What to look for when choosing a blow dryer

An ALCI safety plug

What to look for when choosing a blow dryer

When choosing the best hair dryer for Guatemala look for a robust but light dual voltage model that will work with a 120 volt Guatemalan power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, long cable and a safety plug. If drying thicker hair look for a faster 1600+ watt motor and included diffuser.

9 tips for purchasing a hair dryer

  1. The safest travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will minimise the danger of overloading leading to fires, models are identified with the 2 reset and test switches.
  2. Buying the cheapest hair dryer could be risky; as well as safety issues there is a greater chance that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to a flimsy build.
  3. If you have thicker hair then you might require a hair dryer with a stronger motor; a higher wattage ceramic dryer which includes a diffuser will dry hair faster to avoid damage.
  4. Your hair dryer has to support dual voltage to work with a 120 volt Guatemalan power outlet.
  5. Depending on your hotel room in Guatemala there might be a fixed mirror installed too far away from the nearest outlet making it hard to style hair, so find the unit with the longest power cord possible or pack either an extension cord or a pocket mirror.
  6. A cool shot button on modern hair dryers can rapidly cool down hair after drying which will hold a style but this feature lacks in smaller or cheaper models.
  7. Instead of looking for more expensive third party attachments it might be cheaper and more convenient purchasing a hair dryer that includes both a diffuser and concentrator as these will fit perfectly.
  8. Try looking for a lighter travel hair dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers with folding handles mean more space.
  9. Suitable hair dryers for styling should give control of both speed and temperature with different options - a slower speed with a lower temperature should reduce damage to your hair and a faster hotter speed can dry thicker hair faster.
What is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with diffuser?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

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

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65 metre power cable, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser however lacks a cool shot option.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a longer 1.82 metre electric power cord for greater freedom when styling with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter for cleaning. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it includes a cool shot feature making it ideal for styling thicker hair.

Each ionic travel hair dryer features both concentrator and diffuser attachments with powerful enough motors to make them the most suitable blow dryers for thick hair. They are lightweight and will fold up to pack in a carry-on bag, only requiring a cheap power adapter for Guatemala to fit into a Guatemalan power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is the best compact travel hair dryer?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with bundled concentrator

Which is the best compact travel hair dryer?

  • With a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler includes a cool shot setting which can will rapidly cool down hair.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, a ceramic tourmaline outlet resulting in faster and safer drying, 2 heat options, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cable and comes with a concentrator attachment.

Each model folds, includes an ALCI plug to prevent power overloads and has dual voltage making them perfect for travel to Guatemala in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for a Guatemalan power outlet.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

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

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

What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle

What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer?

  • If you want to dry fine or thin hair whilst on the go the ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the most cost effective small ionic blow dryer available to buy.
  • For a folding hairdryer which is compact enough to transport in a purse then a 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that emits infrared heat for a glossy finish this dryer manages to include options which are normally found on bulkier dryers.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used in combination with a suitable plug adapter for a Guatemalan power outlet they should work in Guatemala folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried for drying on the go. They have a two speed motor, have a 1.5 metre electric power cord and include a concentrator.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best hair dryer to buy for Guatemala?

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 Guatemala 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.

Guatemala power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Guatemala?

The normal voltage used in Guatemala is 120 volts.

What electrical frequency is used in Guatemala?

The frequency used in a Guatemalan power outlet is 60 Hz. [14]

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

Type A and B power outlets

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

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

  • Plug Type A - You can recognise the wall socket by two adjacent slots next to each other where the twin plug socket blades go.
  • Plug Type B - You can recognise the wall socket by the two thin slots next to each other with a single semicircular shaped hole below for the longer grounded pin.

A recommended power adapter to bring to use a 120 volt hair dryer in Guatemala is a Type B plug adapter; read the step-by-step guide below for full details of using a hair dryer in Guatemala. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to confirm if you also need to bring a power converter.  [4] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

A simple method to tell if your hair dryer supports dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or plug of your hair dryer. The location will depend on the make or model of your hair dryer and should also state in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage hair dryers will change automatically, however other hair dryers will feature a button which allows you to toggle between different voltage ranges.

  • Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 120 volts used in Guatemala then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Guatemalan power outlet.
  • Single voltage could also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 120 volts used in a Guatemalan power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Guatemala.
  • Dual voltage will say a larger range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Guatemala or any other country if these numbers are shown.

How should you switch the voltage on a dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  1. Most models of dual voltage hair dryers have some type of switch or dial which selects between 2 voltages however some models can automatically detect the voltage used in Guatemala.
  2. The dial or switch needs either a small screwdriver or coin to set the dryer to the right voltage between a 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
  3. Also it is worth jotting down the two switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to rubbing off on certain models of dryer.

How do I use a dual voltage blow dryer in Guatemala?

  1. Check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it works with a 120 volt power socket.
  2. If your hair dryer is dual voltage please ensure it is switched to work in the 100-127 volt range. The switch is normally found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug the dryer into the correct power adapter for Guatemala and then plug in the power adapter into the Guatemalan power outlet.
  4. The dryer is now ready to be used with a Guatemalan power outlet.
  5. It's normal for dual voltage hair dryer models which originated from a country that uses 220-240V to blow slower than usual when in a country which uses 100-127V electricity.

Travelling to Guatemala with a hair dryer

Can you bring a blow dryer in your carry on?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can you bring a blow dryer in your carry on?

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

Packing your 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 avoiding a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cables tightly around blow dryers). If you do 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 drops and knocks during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Do hotel rooms in Guatemala have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Guatemala have hair dryers?

Depending on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer might be available in the hotel room, either packed away in a bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard, found on a bathroom wall or could be a slower air hose variety. In budget hostels, hotels and motels a shared hair dryer might be available at the reception but could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer availability then either look on the booking web site or call ahead to the hotel in Guatemala to find out what type of hairdryer is available for guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are usable but are normally basic models lacking a diffuser and notorious for low heat and slower air speeds. Those concerned with hygiene should check for any burnt hair from previous guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

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

Is it safer to bring a domestic blow dryer or a travel hair dryer to Guatemala?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer instead of bringing your existing domestic blow dryer to Guatemala as it ensures that it will work with the 120 volt power outlets used with a Guatemalan power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Guatemala). Some types of travel hair dryer will typically feature a collapsible handle and are much lighter, this will help reduce the size and weight in luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer. Note that bringing your expensive domestic blow dryer might put it at risk because of potential damage or loss in your luggage by an airline baggage handler in Guatemala. The cost of repairing an expensive specialised hair dryer in Guatemala could overshadow the costs of buying a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before your trip .  [17] [AD]

Power converters for Guatemala

Do I need a voltage converter to use my hair dryer in Guatemala?

The correct voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 120 volt power outlet used in Guatemala. A power converter is more suitable for travellers wishing to bring their existing domestic hair dryer, however 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 significantly lighter and smaller than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suitable for packing in luggage. [7] [AD]

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?

An expensive and heavy power converter will convert the voltage of 120 volts from a Guatemalan power outlet to work with a non-120 volt hair dryer, whereas a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Guatemala. [7] [AD]

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

A page showing how to power your hair dryer in Guatemala by using a three pronged Type B power charger.

  1. Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 120 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. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages make sure the switch is set to accept 120 volts to use in Guatemala, please refer to the user guide to find out how to do this.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Guatemala you will need to buy a Type B plug adapter [4]. The Type B plug adapter will help convert different plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet found in Guatemala simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 120 volt outlet.
  3. Plug the Type B plug adapter into the Guatemalan power outlet. You can recognise this power outlet by two slots next to each other with a hole below for the earthed pin.
  4. After that plug in the hair dryer into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Guatemalan power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer is ready for use. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Guatemala using a type B power adapter

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

How to power your hair dryer in Guatemala using a three pronged Type A travel charger.

  1. Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 120 volt power supply - if it doesn't then don't continue because you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages make sure the switch is set to the 120 volt setting to use in Guatemala, please refer to the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. These instructions assume that you are not already using 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 will work with a 120 volt power outlet). So, if the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Guatemala you will need to buy a Type A plug adapter [6]. The Type A plug adapter helps convert different plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet found in Guatemala simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 120 volt outlet.
  3. Plug the Type A plug adapter into the Guatemalan power outlet. This plug outlet (known as a Type A power outlet [5]) is identified by two slots next to each other.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Guatemalan power outlet. The hair dryer can now be used in Guatemala. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Guatemala using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - wikipedia entry about Guatemala
  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. 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..
  9. 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..
  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. 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.