hairdryer question, sorry
 

I can't determine from previous threads about voltage whether I will be able to use my hairdryer in Italy with an adapter plug. It has a switch on it that goes from 125V to 250V. And a two-pronged plug. Can anyone enlighten me? Thanks!

Yes, just flip the switch and you should be fine. ((b))

you will need a plug adapter so the plug will fit into the socket. Change the voltage and you'll be all set

Hi Jonn,

What's the wattage? You don't want to blow fuses.

Have you checked with your hotels? Most supply hair dryers - and that way they will have wattage appropriate for the hotel (some US hair dryers are too powerful - and either burn out or blow a fuse). And it's one fewer big thing to pack.

If there is any remaining doubt, go to the World Electric Guide http://kropla.com/electric2.htm

That will give you the voltage and plug types for anyplace you may travel.

Have a great trip.

Thanks, everyone! We're staying in an apartment and won't know until we get there whether there's a hairdryer. And my hair is too unruly to take any chances! I checked the wattage on my dryer and it's 1250W. Is that too much for the sad little Italian fuses?

Hi jonn,

1250 watts is at the edge of old house wiring.

When you use your hairdryer do not also turn on the coffee pot, electric range, microwave or the window AC unit.

I would just buy a hairdryer when you get to Italy. They don't cost that much.

Question for LoveItaly,
We are thinking of buying a hairdryer in Italy as well. We did that in Spain and it was fine! Would you know of what would be a good place to get one. In Spain we bought one right in the supermarket. What about Itsly? We will be staying in Siena in an apt and I'm worried about blowing a fuse. Any help would be great

I don't think that buying it in Italy offers you any "magic" solution to the wattage "dilemma" (if it even exists). Hairdryers simply consume an enormous amount of energy to put out that blast of hot air that you might well be addicted to. You can find dual voltage hairdryers here that are 1000, 900 or even 750 watts. You might try finding one here and make sure you're not going to become a big whiner over the difference in its performance.

Best wishes,

Rex

ritaly, just between us girls ;;) I have never seen a hairdryer in the supermarket (but never looked for one there either). The electronic/appliance shops sell them.

IMHO not carrying one from home, taking the adapter/voltage convertor (or whatever the proper terms are, sigh) is a great way to "pack less".

I have never brought one I bought in Italy home with me. Guess I should have. Always gave it to one of the maids in the hotel (but of course you are staying in an apartment) or would give it to a friend. Oh, in fact, last trip to Italy my friend loaned it back to me to use while there.

I seriously doubt that a rented apartment would have a hairdryer. I have heard horror stories from a friend who manages a hotel in Italy of hairdryers blowing out fuses etc.

Again, if I were you I would buy one on arrival.

Hmm. We rented three apartments in Italy this summer, in Rome, Venice, and Montepulciano. The ones in Rome and Venice both provided hairdryers. I think there was one at the apt. in Montepulciano also, but I'm not sure. It's not uncommon for hotels or apartments to provide them, so are you sure you even need one?

Patrick, that is why I suggested she just waits until she arrives in Italy and than if she needs one she can buy one. I never rent apartments so was not sure about that but they probably have the in apartments so American's don't "blow" out the system; maybe?

I just returned the travel hair dryer I carried all over Italy with me. Along with the travel iron.

I should have listend to the Fodor specialists on this one.

Since I often rent a house/apartment while in Europe I bought one there that I take if not staying in hotels. It was inexpensive and I don't have to haul a lot of "gizmos". Very handy to have.
Judy

Hey Jonnofer-No worries and no need to be sorry about asking questions that help to make us molto bella !!

I just returned from Italy and yes, was able to purchase a very powerful, "Italia-Made" hairdryer at the supermarket for 11 euros. It worked perfectly and alleviated all concerns of blown fuses.

The cost, coupled with convenience and no blow-outs made this a very worthwhile investment for me.....especially if like myself, you expect to return to Italia for years to come.....God willing, of course!!!

Buon viaggio