How to Use Your Dyson Airwrap in Europe
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If you’ve ever packed your Dyson Airwrap for a trip abroad, only to find out it doesn’t actually work in your hotel room, you know the heartbreak. Sadly, Europe uses a higher volt power supply than the U.S., which means American hair tools often don’t work there.
In the pre-Airwrap era (circa 2017), I brought my CHI straightener on my first trip to Paris. I had both an adapter and a converter, so I thought I was all set. After a few passes through my hair, it gave out (and unfortunately never worked again).
To save you from a similar disaster, I’m sharing exactly what you need to know about using a Dyson in Europe, whether you’re in Paris, Rome or anywhere on the continent.
In this Article
Why Your Dyson Won’t Work in Europe
What About a Voltage Converter?
Best Solutions for Using a Dyson Airwrap in Europe
FAQs
Why Your Dyson Won’t Work in Europe
Most U.S. hair tools are made for 110 volts. In Europe, outlets run at 220–240 volts, which means that plugging your Airwrap into a European socket with just a plug adapter could permanently fry your tool. Dyson specifically states that the Airwrap is not dual voltage, so your U.S. version is designed for North America only.
To break it down, here are the three types of devices:
110V: This is your American Dyson Airwrap. It requires a step-down transformer to work on European voltage. Without it, the tool can burn out immediately.
Switchable 110V/220V: Some tools have a manual switch, but Dyson does not.
Universal 110V–240V (dual voltage): These tools work anywhere with just a plug adapter. Unfortunately, the Airwrap doesn’t fall into this category.
What About a Voltage Converter?
“Technically” you could buy a Dyson Airwrap voltage converter. But the problem is that the Airwrap pulls a lot of power, and most travel converters can’t handle it. Only the commercial-grade ones reliably work, but they’re heavy, expensive, and inconvenient for travel. Plus, Dyson makes it clear that if your tool breaks while using one, the warranty won’t cover it.
I know, it’s very frustrating considering the high price tag. The same applies for the Shark FlexStyle too.
Best Solutions for Using a Dyson Airwrap in Europe
1. Buy a Dyson in Europe
The most straightforward (but also expensive) option is to purchase a Dyson in Europe. European models are made for 220–240V and have a plug that fits directly into the outlets (so you don’t need an adapter).
The downside is that Dyson doesn’t ship the European version to the U.S. However, you can order one online through Sephora (France link) or another beauty retailer and pick it up in-store once you arrive. Friends of mine have done this in Paris and had theirs waiting at the Sephora near their hotel.
It does mean shelling out another $600+, which isn’t very realistic for most people. One Dyson is already enough of an investment! But if you travel often or plan to move abroad, it’s the easiest way to continue your normal styling routine.
Buying refurbished is another way to get a Dyson Airwrap for slightly cheaper.
2. Shop Secondhand
If buying a brand new European Dyson is too pricey, a secondhand Airwrap is another good option. eBay, Mercari and Poshmark often have listings for European models, sometimes at significant discounts—so much so that I nearly bought one myself to bring back to France!
3. Buy an Alternative
Now, if you aren’t planning to travel often to Europe, and spending another $600 on a European Dyson is too pricey, then buying a dual voltage alternative is a good idea.
My first choice would be the Babyliss Style/Switch Ionic Multi-Styler & Dryer. It has 5 different attachments, 3 airflow options, and automatic dual voltage, so you can use it worldwide. It’s also significantly cheaper than the Dyson Airwrap ($250 at Ulta). All you need is an adapter to make the plug compatible with European outlets.
I can’t speak for this exact styler, but I do love the Babyliss hair tools. I have a hair dryer from them that I’ve been using for years now.
This dual voltage styler is great Dyson “dupe” that works abroad (just be sure to bring your adapter).
4. Buy a Flat Iron or Other Hair Tool
Not exactly a Dyson, but another option is just to buy a cheaper flat iron, curling iron or blow dryer.
If you want to buy one in the U.S., you will need to make sure it’s dual voltage. I’d recommend the T3 SinglePass StyleMax Professional 1" Flat Iron. It is designed for worldwide usage with voltage that automatically converts from 100-240V. You will still need an adapter to make the plug compatible with European outlets.
Before I moved to France and bought hair tools here, I traveled with just my flat iron, which I also used to curl my hair. Since many hotels I stayed at had blow dryers, it was the only appliance that I really needed to style my hair.
My pick for a dual voltage straightener that you can use almost anywhere.
Another option is to simply buy your hair tools once you arrive. This is what I’d personally do, especially if you plan to return to Europe. You don’t have to mess around with adapters and there are plenty of affordable choices. In France, I would suggest shopping at Darty, FNAC, Sephora, and even Monoprix.
Before buying a hair dryer, you might check if your hotel or Airbnb provides one. Some do, but just know that it’s not uncommon for hotel dryers to run on lower wattage, which might not give you the blowout power you’re used to.
5. Rent a Dyson
If you don’t want to commit to buying, you might choose to rent a Dyson Airwrap. I’ve seen rentals ranging from $40 to $120 on Pickle that would be great for a shorter trip. But, you usually have to be in the same city as the renter to pick it up.
Grover also offers Airwrap rentals in select European countries, though their minimum is six months. A better choice if you’re studying abroad or moving short-term. A quick Google search will pull up even more rental options on smaller sites.
Depending on your trip length, renting might not always be the most economical option, but it’s definitely worth considering!
6. Ask a Friend
If you’re visiting a friend in Europe, ask if they already own a Dyson or another styling tool you can borrow. It could save you money and suitcase space. Also check with your local friends if they have any European hair tools that you can borrow. You might be surprised what they have on hand.
FAQs
Can I use my Dyson Airwrap abroad?
The short answer is no. If your Dyson was purchased in the U.S., it runs on 110V. Most European outlets supply 220–240V, which can permanently damage the Airwrap. Using a standard plug adapter is not enough. Even with a converter, you risk frying your hair tool. So I’m begging you, please don’t do it.
Is there a Dyson Airwrap dual voltage model?
Currently, no. Dyson Airwraps are 110V only in the U.S., and European models are 220V.
What’s the difference between a converter and an adapter?
A voltage converter converts the electrical voltage from one level to another so your appliances can work in different countries. For the Dyson Airwrap, a regular adapter is not enough, and most travel converters aren’t powerful enough.
A plug adapter changes the shape of the plug so it fits into a European outlet. Most countries across Europe have the same style, but the UK is an exception.
I’ve used the Tessan adapters for years now.
Final Thoughts
As glamorous as it sounds to take your favorite beauty tool everywhere, the reality is that the Dyson Airwrap isn’t made for international travel. It’s very annoying given the price and is also a reason why I haven’t bought one for myself yet. Until Dyson releases a Dyson Airwrap dual voltage version (fingers crossed), the safest move is to buy or borrow locally.
Have you ever tried traveling with your Dyson Airwrap abroad? Let me know in the comments below.
