A couple of weeks ago, I found myself packing for a quick trip to Europe. I was feeling pretty good about myself for being able to fit all of my beauty products into a carry-on bag. I was just about to throw my Dyson Airwrap into my luggage when it dawned on me: Katie, you can't bring that thing to Europe.
Anyone who has ever been abroad and tried to plug in anything has undoubtedly learned that the plugs overseas are entirely different than what we have in America. America operates on 120 volts, while other countries operate on anywhere from 110-127V to 220-240V. For things like your computer or iPhone charger, you can get away with any old converter, but once you start wading into higher-powered appliances like hair tools, things can get dicey. While I ended up forgoing a hair tool for this trip, I reached out to stylists so that I can be prepared for my next one. Read on for everything you ever wanted to know about bringing a hair tool abroad.
Can you use American hair tools in Europe?
Yes, but with a catch. If you want to use a curling iron or straightener, you can probably use it abroad with a converter or adaptor. "Typically, any flat or curling iron is okay to use with a converter, just be sure to bring one that has only one heat level," says celebrity makeup artist and hair stylist Ashley Gomila. "Adjustable and/or multi-heat level tools aren’t recommended for conversion because the temperature regulation could be off and cause the iron to burn out or stop working altogether."
Gomila says that this adaptor from Tumi is the best one she's tried. It has four ports and works in over 150 countries.
This converter, which can convert from 220V to 110V, is made specifically with hair tools in mind.
When using a converter or adaptor for a straightener or curling iron, keep in mind it might not get quite as hot as you're used to, and it may not work at all—particularly with heat tools. If you're planning to travel a lot or for a longer period of time, it's probably best to invest in a tool that's specifically made with other countries' voltages in mind, according to celebrity stylist Alex Osorio with Sally Hershberger Salons. Not only will these ensure more consistent results, but you won't have to worry about burning out your beloved tools by accident.
The best universal and travel-friendly hair tools:
Never worry about voltage conversions again with this travel dryer from Conair. It has smart voltage technology that detects foreign voltage and is able to adjust automatically—all while keeping your heat and speed settings the same across countries.
"When traveling abroad, I make sure to keep at least one hair tool with a multi converter," says Gomila. "Balmain Hair Couture offers a travel-friendly Cordless Straightener that comes with all of the converters you will need."
Osorio likes using CHI hair tools abroad. This one has a control circuit that has an automatic route-switching function—you don't even need to use a converter.
This dual-voltage hair styler has cooling vents to help you lock in curls. It can be used for both curling and straightening, making it extremely versatile.
T3 makes some of the best hair tools in the game, so it's reassuring that you can also take them with you abroad. This iron is equipped with something called Auto World voltage, which means that it works on 100V to 240V.
Not only does this bite-sized hair dryer have the same functionality as a full-sized one, it's also less than $30 and has dual-voltage. Plus, the handle folds in to make it even more compact for travel.
Get perfectly undone beach waves wherever you go. This clever tool gives hair gorgeous, tousled waves, and it's also dual-voltage for travel.
Can't bare the thought of traveling without your blow-dry brush? This model comes with a conversion plug for easy use abroad.
This cordless, rechargeable hair iron is perfect for on-the-go styling. It has outlet adaptors included to truly take the guesswork out of traveling with hair tools.
When it comes to traveling internationally, every inch of space in your suitcase counts. That's why this mini-size, dual voltage curling and straightening hybrid tool is such a good investment for traveling purposes.
Like its straightener counterpart, this luxe, professional-grade blowdryer comes with a multi-converter for traveling with ease.