Which power adapter will I need to bring to use a hair dryer in Nicaragua?

Nicaraguan power outlet

Can I use my blow dryer in Nicaragua?

Check that your hair dryer can work in Nicaragua:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 120 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) 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:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 120 volt Nicaraguan power outlet, however this is substantially heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Nicaragua, so check that your voltage transformer comes with the right power adapter for Nicaragua otherwise you will 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 your suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 120 volts used in Nicaragua you run a risk of an electrical fire hazard, a blown fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Before using your hair dryer in Nicaragua please read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Nicaragua

Will my hair dryer work in Nicaragua?

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

Best travel hair dryers for Nicaragua

Choosing the best travel hair dryer for Nicaragua

Bundled diffuser and concentrator attachments

Choosing the best travel hair dryer for Nicaragua

When looking for the best travel hair dryer for Nicaragua choose a strong but light dual voltage model that will work with a 120 volt Nicaraguan power outlet power outlet, includes a safety plug, a folding handle and a long cable. For drying thick hair buy one with a bundled diffuser that uses a faster 1600+ watt motor.

What should I look for when buying a hair dryer?

  1. Ideal travel hair dryers should allow you to alter both temperature and speed settings with two options - hotter faster speeds can quickly dry thicker wet hair whilst slower speeds with lower temperatures reduce damage to your hair.
  2. Look for a lighter travel hair dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models which have a folding handle mean more room for packing other items.
  3. Rather than scouring stores to look for expensive third party attachments it could be cheaper purchasing a new dryer which is supplied with a diffuser and a concentrator from the manufacturer as these should fit perfectly.
  4. A cool shot feature on modern travel dryers will quickly cool down the hair after drying to hold in a style but this feature lacks in smaller or cheaper models.
  5. Depending on your hotel room you could find a fixed mirror installed some distance away from a outlet which could make it cumbersome to operate the blow dryer, therefore when buying a hair dryer search for the unit with the longest power cord possible.
  6. Your hair dryer needs to support dual voltage to function in Nicaragua.
  7. If you have thicker hair then you might require a blow dryer which has a more powerful motor; a high wattage ceramic model that includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby preventing damage.
  8. Buying the cheapest travel dryer available could be risky; as well as safety issues there is also a greater chance that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to cheaper components.
  9. The safest travel hair dryers will include an ALCI safety plug which minimises the danger of the motor overloading that could start electrical fires; these are identified with 'reset' and 'test' switches on the plug.
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?

  • A Conair MiniPRO is the most cost effective small ionic blow dryer available on the market, the 1200 watt ceramic dryer is suitable for quickly drying fine or thin hair whilst on the go.
  • For a blow dryer which is lightweight enough to transport in a purse then a 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage this dryer has features normally reserved for larger dryers.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used along with a suitable plug adapter for a Nicaraguan power outlet they will work in Nicaragua and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried around during the day for styling on the go. They include a concentrator attachment, have 1.5 metre electric power cords and have a 2 speed motor.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is a good hair dryer for thick and curly hair?

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

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

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

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

  • A Conair Compact Styler has a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and includes a cool shot setting that can will rapidly cool hair down.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot setting, a tourmaline ceramic air outlet resulting in faster and safer drying, two heat settings, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cord and also includes a concentrator.

Both models can fold, have an ALCI safety plug to prevent power overloads and has dual voltage making them perfect for travel to Nicaragua in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for a Nicaraguan power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

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

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

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

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

Each ionic travel hair dryer features both diffuser and concentrator with powerful motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. Both will require a suitable plug adapter for Nicaragua to plug into a Nicaraguan power outlet, they are lightweight and will fold up to pack into carry-on luggage.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel blow dryer to buy for Nicaragua?

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 Nicaragua 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.

Nicaragua power outlets and plug sockets

What is the electrical frequency used with a Nicaraguan power outlet?

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

What mains voltage is used in Nicaragua?

The normal voltage in Nicaragua is 120 volts.

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

Type A and B power outlets

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

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

  • Plug Type A - This unearthed plug outlet (also known as the type A power outlet) is identified by 2 thin slots next to each other.
  • Plug Type B - You can identify the wall socket by the two slots where the live and neutral blades slide into with a single semicircular shaped hole below for the earthed pin.

A Type B power adapter allows you to use a 120 volt hair dryer in Nicaragua - read the simple instructions below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Nicaragua with a plug adapter. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to use a voltage converter.  [4] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

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

  1. Most models of dual voltage hair dryers have some type of dial or switch which selects between two ranges of voltages although some hair dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from a Nicaraguan power outlet.
  2. The switch or dial needs either a small screwdriver or coin to set the dryer to the correct voltage between the 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
  3. Also, it is worth making a note of both switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to rubbing off on certain models of hair dryer.

How can I use my dual voltage hair dryer in Nicaragua?

  1. Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and it works with a 120 volt power socket.
  2. If your dryer is dual voltage please make sure that it is set to work in the 100-127v range. This is usually found on the base or handle of the blow dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug the dryer into the correct power adapter for Nicaragua and then plug in the power adapter into the Nicaraguan power outlet.
  4. Your dryer can now be used in Nicaragua.
  5. You can expect travel hair dryer models that were purchased in a country that uses 220-240V to blow slower than usual when in a country which uses 100-127V electricity.
How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

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

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer supports a dual voltage outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or plug. The location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer and could also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models will change automatically, however other hair dryers will have a button which allows you to operate between different regions depending on which country you are in.

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

Travelling to Nicaragua with a hair dryer

Is it safe to bring a domestic hair dryer to Nicaragua?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to bringing your existing domestic hair dryer to Nicaragua as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 120 volt power outlets used with a Nicaraguan power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Nicaragua). Travel hair dryers typically feature a collapsible handle and will be lighter, this will help in reducing the size and weight when packed 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 loss or damage in transit by an airline baggage handler. The cost and inconvenience of repairing an expensive specialised hair dryer in Nicaragua could outweigh the cost of purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case beforehand to bring along .  [16] [AD]

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

Hotel hair dryer

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

Depending on the individual hotel and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the room, either packed in the bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer, found in the bathroom or could potentially be a slower air hose variety. In budget hotels, hostels and motels a communal hair dryer might be available at reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer policy you could either telephone your hotel in Nicaragua or look on the hotel web site to find out what type of hairdryer is available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but typically rudimentary models with no diffuser, notorious for slower air speeds and low heat. Those concerned with hygiene should check for the burnt hair from other guests on a shared hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

For travellers who don't want to take a chance that a suitable and clean hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer or call ahead to the hotel in Nicaragua to check first.  [2] [AD]

Can I pack a blow dryer in my carry on to Nicaragua?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I pack a blow dryer in my carry on to Nicaragua?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on bringing 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 taking you to Nicaragua will allow blow dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft. Packing the blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible for airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cables tightly around electronic items). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the most protection against knocks and drops during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Power converters for Nicaragua

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

Voltage converter

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

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 Nicaragua, whereas a more expensive and heavier power converter will transform a 120 volt Nicaraguan power outlet to work with a non-120 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

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

The correct model of power converter (or voltage transformer) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 120 volt power outlet used in Nicaragua. A power converter is more suited for travellers who wish to use their existing hair dryer, however it can be cheaper to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to purchase a power converter. A power converter is also significantly 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 Nicaragua using a type B power adapter

A page showing how to power your hair dryer in Nicaragua with a Type B travel adapter.

  1. Make sure that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 120 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 120 volt setting to use in Nicaragua; please refer to the user guide to find out how to do this.
  2. If the type of power outlet used in Nicaragua doesn't accomodate the plug shape on your hair dryer you will need to buy a Type B plug adapter [4]. The Type B plug adapter will fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet found in Nicaragua by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 120 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type B plug adapter into the Nicaraguan power outlet. You can identify the power supply by the two slots for live and neutral blades with a single semicircular hole below for the grounded pin.
  4. After that plug in your hair dryer into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Nicaraguan power outlet.
  6. You can now turn on the hair dryer in Nicaragua. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Nicaragua using a type B power adapter

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

How to power your hair dryer in Nicaragua with a Type A power adapter.

  1. Please check that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 120 volt power outlet but 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 ensure you have set it to the 120 volt setting to use in Nicaragua, please refer to the user guide to find out where this switch is.
  2. 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 still check that your hair dryer will work with a 120 volt power supply). You'll need to bring a Type A plug adapter [6] if the shape of the power outlet used in Nicaragua isn't the same shape as the plug of your hair dryer. This plug adapter is designed to fit plugs from other countries for a power outlet in Nicaragua 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 power outlet. The power supply (sometimes called the Type A power outlet [5]) is recognised by 2 thin slots next to each other where the live and neutral blades slide into.
  4. After that plug in the hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Nicaraguan power outlet.
  6. Your hair dryer can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Nicaragua using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Nicaraguan country page on Wikipedia
  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. BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - With dual heat and speed settings, the device aims to cater to a variety of hair types. Its dual voltage capability, folding handle and lightweight design make it suited for international travel..
  9. Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers..
  10. X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - This hair dryer boasts a 1600-watt motor intended for efficient hair drying. The long 1.65-meter cable provides an extra layer of convenience for users who require mobility during use..
  11. Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - The appliance integrates a 1875-watt motor, targeting quick and effective hair drying. The folding handle is intended for easier storage and transport..
  12. Berta 1875W Folding Hair Dryer Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Negative Ions Travel Dryer - This hair dryer features two speed and heat settings, dual-voltage and a foldable handle whilst equipped with an ALCI plug to help prevent electric shock..
  13. Conair 1875 Watt Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage - This travel-ready hair dryer uses a high 1875-watt motor for efficient and rapid hair drying. Smart voltage technology adjusts to foreign voltage, maintaining heat and speed settings for convenience..
  14. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  15. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  16. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  17. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.