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 I 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 adapter. "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 adapters from Tumi are among the best one she's tried. This specific model has three ports and works in over 150 countries.
This converter, which can convert from 220V to 110V, is made specifically with hair tools in mind.
Blow-dryers, on the other hand, are where things get tricky. According to celebrity hairstylist Gregory Patterson, DIY color and styling expert for Sally Beauty, you not only have to use the right converter for whatever country you're in but also make sure said converter can actually convert the voltage of the powerful tool. You can ensure this by checking if your device has dual or universal voltage capabilities. "This is super important. I’ve burned up way too many hair dryers all over the world before learning this lesson," he notes.
Dual-voltage tools will typically have a flat, screw-like dial with two voltage options. "This is where you will turn the dial to match the voltage of the country, and then plug it into the wall using the plug converter," he explains. "If your tool doesn’t have this dial, and also isn't a universal auto conversion, you must not use your tool—even with the converter. It will make the worst sound you’ve ever heard and two seconds later will pop and burn out."
Universal hot tools, as the name suggests, will automatically switch voltages when you plug it into the converter. (No need to manually switch a dial to control the voltage output.) "Check your voltage conversion either on the box or the instructions," Patterson advises.
When using a converter or adapter 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.
How do I pack my hairstyling tools?
It may seem straightforward, but the pros have a few hacks to keep your tools safe and your luggage organized.
- Take any attachments off: If you have a multi-styler or blow-dryer with various nozzles, Patterson recommends popping off all attachments before packing your bag. That way, the tools become less clunky and easier to stow in smaller crevices.
- Wrap your cords carefully: "When traveling, always wrap your cords without creating a bend at the point of connection of the cord and the device," Patterson adds. "Nothing will break your device down quicker than creating compromise at this connection point."
- Secure cords with elastics: "Another travel hack: Keep your cords together with hair elastics," he shares. This is especially helpful if your tools don't come with a handy Velcro cord wrap. Not to mention "you’ll always have an extra ponytail elastic if need be," Patterson adds.
- Pack heat-resistant materials: Patterson always packs his hot tools in silicone, heat-resistant pouches (like this $10 option), then places them between clothing to further protect them during travel. "The pouches are also the perfect place to stow hot tools when you’re in a hurry or if you need a quick touch up in an airport bathroom when getting ready on arrival," he notes. Many of these heat-resistant pouches also double as styling mats, which are great for protecting surfaces in your hotel room.
- Rely on multi-stylers: Only have room for one hot tool in your carry-on? Celebrity hairstylist for Sally Beauty Monae Everett suggests packing an interchangeable styler. "It can handle multiple styling options so you pack lighter," she notes.
- Pack an extension cord: "My last hack that will have you thanking me time and time again, I promise," shares Patterson. "Toss in an extension cord. Why? Most European hotel rooms don’t have outlets in the bathrooms for CV6, and this extension cord will be life saving."
Here are the tools WWW senior beauty editor Jamie Schneider travels with internationally: a blow-dryer (with a diffuser attachment), curling wand, flat iron, heat-resistant pouch, and a converter.
What tools are not allowed in my carry-on?
You can pack most styling tools without a second thought. The only flag to consider is if your tool contains lithium batteries, which cannot be carried on. "Check the instruction manuals," explains Patterson. "This information will be there, and they’ll inform you on how to pack these tools. Or they may share with you how to put it into 'airplane mode' so that the device cannot be turned on during flight if any movement happens."
This is likely more relevant for hairstylists (unless you regularly cut your own hair at home), but scissors or shears are also a no-go. "Check those—I learned that lesson the hard way," says Patterson.
The 10 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-size hair dryer have the same functionality as a full-size one, but it's also less than $35 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 bear the thought of traveling without your blow-dry brush? Try this lightweight multi-styler, which is relatively more affordable than other options on the market—and can be used all over the world. "It dries, curls, diffuses, and more, so a lot of your looks can be created using this easy-to-pack hair salon on the go," says Patterson.
Both Everett and Patterson are quick to recommend this cordless flat iron. "[It] will get you through almost every single look you can imagine and can be cord-free for over 30 minutes!" Patterson notes.
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.