I realize the vanity here- but can anyone help me understand how I can safely use a straightener/ curling iron/ blow dryer while in Rome? I am trying to understand the converter vs transformer thing and have read a few horror stories online of people's hair tools nearly catching fire or burning their hair. I would love recommendations for specific products or other suggestions if you have any!
Otherwise, a hat it is.
Thank you!!
Jocelyn
Josekyle, almost all hotel rooms have hair dryers or you can check them out at the desk but the usual recommendation is to buy one in Italy if those aren't available.
There are a couple mentions of hair irons in this thread:
https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/italy/flat-irons-8649b157-b8db-4ac4-8e6b-fcc6f4fe1324
The main issue is you MUST HAVE a hair dryer or iron that operates on 220-250 voltage. All US sold equipment will almost always be for 120 voltage. Some will operate on both either by a physical switch between the two voltage setting or an internal automatic switch. Check the plug of your current items and see what input voltage is required. It will state something like 120v or 120-250v.
If is only 120v then you would need a voltage converter. A converter or transformer (for this discussion) is the same things - converts 240 to 120. However, the converter/transformer for this task (because of the high wattage requirements of the hair dryer/iron) is heavy and expensive so it is really better to buy an hair/iron that will run on 240 volts.
And then the next item you need is a plug adapter that allows a two flat prong US plug to plug into a two prong round European plug.
As others mention, you must have an adapter for whichever country you're in. I've yet to encounter a hotel without a hair dryer, so you'll be fine in that regard. I have a Conair dual voltage curling brush--plug in to the adapter, then to the outlet and it heats properly. I have a lot of curly hair and if I don't feel like arranging it just so it goes into an updo with no fussing--so maybe experiment with some optional hair styles just in case?
Hi Jocelyn,
After forgetting my straightener I just had to wear my hat. Half way through I broke down and bought a travel straightener. It does have a "europe" plug. I think it was about 10 Euros at one of the department stores. An investment for me as we try to go to Europe at least every two years. The brand is Babyliss.
Couple of options with a straightener....buy a universal one here (but be careful when shopping, there are many fakes out there....I got mine from the owner of the salon I go to) or buy one when you get there. My universal one works just fine, but it doesn’t get as hot as the one I normally use.
My g/f agonized over this for a week, going back n'forth on what to buy, converter, variable voltage appliances, etc.
Instead, we decided the first thing after checking into our hotel was to go buy a blow drier and iron from the local CVS/Walgreen's type store in-country. We knew we're going to have future trips so, buying those appliances locally we knew would work and we wouldn't have to deal with any fear of blowing fuses.
