How do I use a hair dryer in Ghana?

Ghanaian power outlet

Can I use my blow dryer in Ghana?

First check that your hair dryer can work in Ghana:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you'll only need to use the right power adapter for Ghana listed below if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit in the outlet.

If not then either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Ghanaian power outlet, however this is considerably heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Ghana, so check that your power converter includes an appropriate power adapter for Ghana otherwise you will still need to bring a seperate power adapter. Note that your domestic hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you could risk damage in your suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts used in Ghana you run the risk of a blown fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Prior to using your hair dryer in Ghana please check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Ghana

Will my hair dryer work in Ghana?

That will depend on if your hair dryer can handle the 230 volts used in Ghana. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can handle 230 volts and you have the appropriate plug adapter then you'll be able to use the hair dryer in Ghana. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter, read the section on do you need a voltage converter to use a domestic hair dryer for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Can I use my US hair dryer in Ghana?

The instructions on this page assume that you are an America reader visiting Ghana and will provide advice on using your US hair dryer with a Ghanaian power outlet.

Best travel hair dryers for Ghana

What to look for when choosing a hair dryer

Multiple speed options on a travel hair dryer

What to look for when choosing a hair dryer

When choosing the best hair dryer for Ghana look for a robust but light dual voltage dryer that will work with a 230 volt Ghanaian power outlet power outlet, includes a safety plug, a folding handle and long cable. For drying thick hair buy one with a diffuser that uses a faster 1600+ watt dryer.

9 tips for purchasing a hair dryer

  1. If you have curlier or thicker hair then you might require a blow dryer with a stronger motor - a high wattage ceramic dryer which has a diffuser will dry hair faster to avoid damage.
  2. The safest travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will minimise the danger of overloading and starting a fire; models can be recognised by 'test' and 'reset' buttons on the plug.
  3. Depending on your hotel room in Ghana you could find a fixed mirror installed away from the nearest outlet which makes it awkward to dry hair, so look for a model with the lengthiest power cord available.
  4. It could be more convenient and cheaper to buy a new dryer which includes a diffuser and concentrator instead of scouring shops looking for more expensive third party attachments.
  5. Buying the cheapest travel hair dryer might be risky - as well as safety issues there is also a greater chance that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to cheaper components.
  6. Suitable hair dryers for styling give control of the speed and temperature with high and low options, a faster hotter speed can dry hair faster whereas lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to hair.
  7. Your hair dryer has to support dual voltage to function in Ghana.
  8. Modern hair dryers could include a 'cool shot' option for rapidly cooling down the hair after drying to hold in the style but this option could be lacking in smaller or cheaper models.
  9. Try looking for a lighter travel hair dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models with folding handles mean more room.
Which is the best compact travel hair dryer?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with attached concentrator

Which is the best compact travel hair dryer?

  • With a strong two speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features a cool shot setting that can will rapidly cool hair down.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, uses a tourmaline ceramic outlet for negative ions meaning safer styling, 2 heat settings, a longer 1.8m power cord and also includes a concentrator.

Both models can fold, include an ALCI safety plug which prevents overloading and support dual voltage making them ideal for visiting Ghana in carry on luggage if used with a power adapter for a Ghanaian power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is the best blow dryer for thick curly hair?

Thick hair can take longer to dry and can be difficult to dry without your hair turning frizzy, so the best option is an ionic hair dryer and for curly thick hair we suggest a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Both an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic are recommended as they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor that is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with diffuser?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

What is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with diffuser?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65 metre electric power cable, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser but it doesn't have cool shot.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a generous 1.82m electric power cord for more flexibility when styling with an ALCI safety plug and removable filter to clean easily. It uses a strong 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it more suited for drying thick hair.

Both ionic hair dryers include a concentrator and diffuser attachment with strong motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. Each hair dryer is light and folds up to fit in carry-on luggage, only requiring a cheap power adapter for Ghana to work with a Ghanaian power outlet.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

What is the best small folding dual voltage hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium

What is the best small folding dual voltage hair dryer?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable small ionic blowdryer available to buy, the ceramic 1200 watt dryer will be suited for quickly drying thin or fine hair whilst on the go.
  • A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is compact enough to transport in a purse because of a 10.5 ounce body and folding handle that also has features reserved for larger dryers such as a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage which results in a glossier finish.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used in combination with a suitable power adapter for a Ghanaian power outlet they should work in Ghana folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried for drying on the go. They have a two speed motor, have a 1.5 metre electric power cord and include a concentrator.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best hair dryer for Ghana?

Conair
MiniPRO
This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers.
BaByliss
PRO
https://www.amazon.com/BaBylissPRO-Titanium-Bambino-Compact-Dryer/dp/B0068SZ7UG?crid=2DINB36JPL4Y8&keywords=BaBylissPRO+Nano+Titanium+Travel&qid=1695049039&s=beauty&sprefix=babylisspro+nano+titanium+travel%2Cbeauty%2C159&sr=1-8&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=e8c6666d23ce4b94dacd3eebe6ee2e52&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Conair
Compact
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07HB2ZRNJ?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=0d63bbe1932e337ac284cff97127f87f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Berta
Folding
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XWV3K4L?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=8917b03d1d32d516d8d91e80a2c879c3&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
X5
Superlite
https://www.amazon.com/Revlon-Technolgy-Convenience-Worldwide-Included/dp/B00M8BDQXW?dchild=1&keywords=X5+Superlite+1600W+Dual+Voltage+Ceramic+Ionic+Travel+Dryer&qid=1624444396&sr=8-3&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=1d77c57773d2348052a5461909efc53b&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Hot Tools
1044
https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Tools-Professional-Ht1044-Folding/dp/B003A1DWRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1506767312&sr=1-1&keywords=Hot+Tools+Professional+Ht1044+Ionic+1875+Watt+Travel+Dryer+with+Folding+Handle+and+Dual+Votage&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=e4d6cd8511a014951b16d43f9ec3a809
Class Mini Compact Compact with diffuser
Works in Ghana Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Works in US Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Dual voltage Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Watts 1200 1000 1875 1875 1600 1875
Folds Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ceramic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ionic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Tourmaline Yes Yes Yes
Infrared Yes
Speed settings 2 2 2 2 2 2
Heat settings 1 1 1 2 1 1
Cool shot Yes Yes Yes
Removable filter Yes Yes
Concentrator Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Diffuser Yes Yes
ALCI safety plug Yes Yes Yes Yes
Cord length 1.52m 1.52m 1.52m 1.8m 1.65m 1.82m
Color
Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy

Original testing and suitability of hair dryer models was compiled 2017, subsequent updates performed monthly - last updated September 2023.

Ghana power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Ghana?

Power outlets in Ghana are 230 volts.

What frequency is used in Ghana?

The frequency from a Ghanaian power outlet is 50Hz. [14]

Which plug adapter will you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Ghana?

Type D and G power outlets

Which plug adapter will you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Ghana?

There are two different types of power outlets used in Ghana, types G and D with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type D - You can identify the wall outlet by the three round holes in a triangular shape.
  • Plug Type G - You can identify the wall outlet by the three vertical holes with plastic shutters in a triangle pattern for live, neutral and ground.

A recommended plug adapter to bring when using a 230 volt hair dryer in Ghana is a Type G power adapter, read the step by step guide below for full details of using a hair dryer in Ghana. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to bring a voltage converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How should you switch the voltage on a dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  1. Most models of dual voltage hair dryers have some type of dial or switch which selects between two voltages although some dryers can automatically detect the voltage used in Ghana.
  2. This dial or switch typically requires either a coin or screwdriver to set the dryer to the correct voltage between the 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
  3. Also it's worth noting down the two switch positions as the painted numbers can occasionally fade on some models.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

A simple method to tell if your hair dryer supports dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or plug of the hair dryer. The location might depend on the make or model of your hair dryer, it could also state in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair dryers might change automatically but other hair dryers will have a button which allows you to operate between different regions depending on which country you are in.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Ghana then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Ghanaian power outlet.
  • A small voltage range with a dash such as 100-120V also indicates a single voltage hair dryer which can accomodate small voltage fluctuations. If the 230 volts used in a Ghanaian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Ghana.
  • A large range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Ghana or any other country.

How do I use my dual voltage blow dryer in Ghana?

  1. Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or it works with a 230 volt power socket.
  2. If the hair dryer is dual voltage then ensure it is switched to work in the 220-240 volt range. The switch is normally found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the correct power adapter for Ghana and then plug in the power adapter into the Ghanaian power outlet.
  4. It's normal for a majority of dual voltage hair dryer models operating within the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on a low speed setting - however the temperature should still be adequate for drying hair. Always check the manufacturers guidelines to find out if this is relevant for your model of dual voltage dryer to prevent the risk of overheating.
  5. Your hair dryer can now be operated in Ghana.

Travelling to Ghana with a hair dryer

Is a blowdryer allowed onboard a plane to Ghana?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Is a blowdryer allowed onboard a plane to Ghana?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also recommends that you should check that the airline that is taking you to Ghana will allow hair dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft. Packing the blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible when going through airport security, it can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cables tightly around electronic items such as blow dryers). If you do intend to bring fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against knocks and bumps during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Do hotel rooms in Ghana have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Ghana have hair dryers?

Depending on the individual hotel and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the hotel room, either packed in the bedroom wardrobe, drawer or cupboard, found in the bathroom or could be of a slower air hose type.

If staying in cheaper hotels, motels and hostels a communal hair dryer could be offered at reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer policy you can either telephone the hotel in Ghana or check on the booking web site to find out what is available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but are typically rudimentary models with no diffuser and notorious for slower air speeds and low heat. Those concerned with hygiene might want to remove any grime from previous guests on a communal hair dryer as room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

Guests who aren't sure that a suitable and germ-free hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer.  [2] [AD]

Is it safe to bring my domestic hair dryer to Ghana?

Bringing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing an existing blow dryer to Ghana as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Ghanaian power outlet (as long as you use the correct plug adapter for Ghana). Certain types of travel hair dryer will normally feature a collapsing handle and will be lighter which helps in reducing the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer.

Please note that packing an expensive domestic hair dryer could place it at risk due to potential loss or damage in transit by a baggage handlers. The cost and inconvenience involved in replacing or repairing an expensive quality blow dryer in Ghana might be higher than buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before travelling to bring along .  [17] [AD]

Power converters for Ghana

Do I need a voltage converter to use my hair dryer in Ghana?

The correct model of power converter (or voltage transformer) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 230 volt power outlet used in Ghana. Travellers who wish to bring along their own hair dryer can use a power converter, however it might be more costly to buy a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also worth noting, a travel hair dryer can be substantially lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for travelling. [7] [AD]

What is the difference between a power converter and a plug adapter?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a power converter and a plug adapter?

An expensive and heavy power converter will transform a 230 volt Ghanaian power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, however a cheaper and smaller power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Ghana. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Ghana using a type D power adapter

A page showing how to power your hair dryer in Ghana by using a three prong Type D power charger.

  1. Please check that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then do not proceed as you might damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel hair dryer make sure you have set it to the 230 volt setting; please refer to the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Ghana you will need to bring a Type D plug adapter [4]. This Type D plug adapter will adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet used in Ghana by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Begin the process by taking the Type D plug adapter and inserting it in the Ghanaian power outlet. You can recognise the wall outlet by the three circular holes in a triangular configuration.
  4. Next plug in your hair dryer into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Ghanaian power outlet. You can now turn on your hair dryer in Ghana. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Ghana using a type D power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Ghana using a type G power adapter

Instructions showing how to use a hair dryer in Ghana with a Type G travel adapter.

  1. Check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply; if not then do not continue because you could create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Some dual voltage blow dryers will typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure you have set it to accept 230 volts, consult the instructions for more information on where this switch is.
  2. You'll need to bring a Type G plug adapter [6] if the shape of the power outlet used in Ghana doesn't take the plug shape of your hair dryer. The Type G plug adapter is designed to convert different plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet in Ghana simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. First insert the Type G plug adapter in the power outlet. This plug supply, technically known as a Type G power outlet [5], can be identified by 3 vertical slots containing shutters forming a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Ghanaian power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer should now be ready to use. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Ghana using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Ghanaian country Wiki page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type D power outlet
  4. Type D plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type D electrical adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka..
  5. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  6. Type G plug adapter - An earthed BS 1363 certified UK power adapter, featuring a fuse to protect against overload and consequent fire risks. Ideal for use in over 50 countries, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and also in international cities like Dubai and Hong Kong..
  7. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
  8. Berta 1875W Folding Hair Dryer Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Negative Ions Travel Dryer - This hair dryer features two speed and heat settings, dual-voltage and a foldable handle whilst equipped with an ALCI plug to help prevent electric shock..
  9. Conair 1875 Watt Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage - This travel-ready hair dryer uses a high 1875-watt motor for efficient and rapid hair drying. Smart voltage technology adjusts to foreign voltage, maintaining heat and speed settings for convenience..
  10. X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - This hair dryer boasts a 1600-watt motor intended for efficient hair drying. The long 1.65-meter cable provides an extra layer of convenience for users who require mobility during use..
  11. Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - The appliance integrates a 1875-watt motor, targeting quick and effective hair drying. The folding handle is intended for easier storage and transport..
  12. BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - With dual heat and speed settings, the device aims to cater to a variety of hair types. Its dual voltage capability, folding handle and lightweight design make it suited for international travel..
  13. Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers..
  14. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  15. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  16. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  17. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.