Which power adapter do you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Sao Tome?

Sao Tome power outlet

Will my hairdryer work in Sao Tome?

Check that your hair dryer can work in Sao Tome:

If not then either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 220 volt Sao Tome power outlet, however this is noticeably heavier, bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter changes the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Sao Tome, therefore please check that the power converter includes a suitable power adapter for Sao Tome otherwise you will need to purchase another power adapter. Please note - your own existing hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you risk potential damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 220 volts used in Sao Tome you run a risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or a blown fuse. Prior to using your hair dryer in Sao Tome please read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Sao Tome

Will my hair dryer work in Sao Tome?

That will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 220 volts as used in Sao Tome:

How can I use my US hair dryer in Sao Tome?

The guides on this page assume that you're an America reader visiting Sao Tome and provide guidance for using your American hair dryer with a Sao Tome power outlet.

Best travel hair dryers for Sao Tome

How to choose the best travel blow dryer for Sao Tome

Bundled diffuser and concentrator attachments

How to choose the best travel blow dryer for Sao Tome

When choosing the best travel hair dryer look for a sturdy but lightweight dual-voltage model that will work with a 220 volt Sao Tome power outlet power outlet, includes an ALCI safety plug, folding handle and a long cable. When drying thicker hair look for a model which includes a bundled diffuser that has a higher 1600+ watt dryer.

What should you look for when purchasing a hair dryer?

  1. You shouldn't risk getting the cheapest travel dryer on the market, as well as safety issues there is also a greater risk that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to cheaper components.
  2. Your hair dryer has to be dual voltage in order to operate with a 220 volt Sao Tome power outlet.
  3. A cool shot feature on modern blow dryers will quickly cool down the hair after drying which will hold the style but this option might be lacking in more compact models.
  4. The safest travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will reduce the danger of the motor overloading and starting electrical fires, models can be recognised by 'test' and 'reset' buttons.
  5. Thicker or curlier hair may require a blow dryer which has a more powerful motor, a higher wattage ceramic dryer which includes a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby avoiding damage.
  6. Try looking for a lightweight travel dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models which have a folding handle will mean more space to pack other items.
  7. Some hotel rooms might have a mirror positioned too far away from the nearest outlet which makes it difficult to dry hair, therefore look for the longest power cord possible.
  8. Rather than looking for more expensive 3rd party attachments it could be more convenient and cheaper to buy a hair dryer that is supplied with a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer as these will fit perfectly.
  9. Ideal travel hair dryers should give control of both speed and temperature with high and low options; a hotter faster speed will dry thicker wet hair quicker whereas a slower speed with a lower temperature will reduce damage to your hair.
What is the best travel hair dryer with a diffuser?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

What is the best travel hair dryer with a diffuser?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m power cable, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser but it doesn't have cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a long 1.82 metre electric power cord for more flexibility when drying with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter to clean easily. It also has a strong 1875 watt motor including a cool shot option making it suitable for drying thick hair.

Both ionic travel hair dryers feature both concentrator and diffuser attachments with powerful motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. Both will require a suitable plug adapter for Sao Tome to work with a Sao Tome power outlet, each dryer is lightweight and folds up to fit in carry-on baggage.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is the best mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage for Sao Tome?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium

What is the best mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage for Sao Tome?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable small ionic blow dryer available on the market, this 1200 watt ceramic dryer is suitable for quickly drying thin or fine hair on the go.
  • For a folding hairdryer which is both lightweight and small enough to transport in a purse then a 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat for a glossy finish this dryer has features normally reserved for larger hairdryers.

Both of these mini hair dryers have dual voltage when used in combination with a suitable plug adapter for a Sao Tome power outlet they will work in Sao Tome and fold conveniently enough to be carried for drying on the go. They have a 1.5 metre electric power cord, have a twin speed motor and include a concentrator attachment.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is a good hair dryer for thick or curly hair?

Thick hair will take much longer to dry and could be difficult to dry without your hair going frizzy. The best option for this type of hair is an ionic hair dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly. Both an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic will be suitable as they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor that is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [8] [9] [AD]

What is a good folding travel hair dryer for Sao Tome?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with attached concentrator

What is a good folding travel hair dryer for Sao Tome?

  • The Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and includes a cool shot setting that can be used to quickly cool down hair.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, uses a tourmaline ceramic air outlet resulting in safer styling, twin heat options, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cord and also includes a concentrator attachment.

Each model folds, includes an ALCI power plug which prevents overloading and support dual voltage making them perfect for travel to Sao Tome in carry on luggage when used with a power adapter for a Sao Tome power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel blow dryer for Sao Tome?

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 Sao Tome 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.

Sao Tome power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Sao Tome?

The typical residential voltage in Sao Tome is 220 volts.

What is the electrical frequency used in Sao Tome?

The frequency in a Sao Tome power outlet is 50Hz. [14]

Which power adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Sao Tome?

Type C and F power outlets

Which power adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Sao Tome?

There are two different types of power outlets used in Sao Tome, types F and C with the primary power outlets being type F:

  • Plug Type C - This ungrounded plug outlet, technically called the Europlug, can be recognised by 2 circular adjacent holes where the plug socket pins sit.
  • Plug Type F - You can identify this power outlet by the two large holes 19 mm adjacent to each other along with two metal grounding clips above and below.

A suitable travel adapter to bring to use a 220 volt hair dryer in Sao Tome is a Type F plug adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of using a hair dryer in Sao Tome. Please note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to bring a power converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer supports dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or the plug. This location will depend on the make or model of your hair dryer and should also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models will change automatically, however other hair dryers will have a button or switch which allows you to change between different voltage ranges depending on which country you are in.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Sao Tome then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Sao Tome 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 220 volts used in a Sao Tome power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Sao Tome.
  • A larger voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Sao Tome or any other country.

How should you change the voltage on a dual voltage hair dryer?

  1. Most brands of dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which toggles between 2 voltages although some dryers can automatically detect the voltage used in Sao Tome.
  2. This switch or dial needs either a coin or screwdriver to change the hair dryer to the right voltage between the 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
  3. Also it is worth making a note of the two switch positions as the painted numbers are prone to rubbing off on certain models.

How do you use your dual voltage hair dryer in Sao Tome?

  1. Check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it operates with a 220 volt power socket.
  2. If your dryer supports dual voltage then ensure it is switched to the 220-240v range. This is usually found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to turn.
  3. Plug your dryer into the correct power adapter for Sao Tome, also plug in the power adapter into the Sao Tome power outlet.
  4. It's normal for a majority of dual voltage hair dryers operating in the 220-240v range to only work safely on a low speed setting - however this temperature and speed should be sufficient for drying hair. Please check the manufacturers instructions to see if this is relevant for your model of hair dryer to stop the risk of overheating.
  5. Your hair dryer is now ready to be used with a Sao Tome power outlet.

Travelling to Sao Tome with a hair dryer

Can blow dryers go in your carry on?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can blow dryers go in your carry on?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also suggests that you should verify that your airline who is taking you to Sao Tome will allow a blow dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

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 wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping wires tightly around electronic items such as blow dryers). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against drops and knocks during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Is it safe to bring my domestic hair dryer to Sao Tome?

Packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to bringing an existing hair dryer to Sao Tome (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Sao Tome power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Sao Tome). A travel hair dryer will typically feature a collapsible handle and will be much lighter which helps in reducing the size and weight when packed in luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer.

It is also worth bearing in mind that bringing your expensive domestic blow dryer might place it at risk due to potential loss or damage in your luggage by an airline baggage handler in Sao Tome. The cost involved in replacing or repairing an expensive quality hair dryer in Sao Tome could be higher than buying a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before your trip .  [17] [AD]

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Sao Tome?

Hotel hair dryer

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Sao Tome?

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

If staying in cheaper motels, hotels and hostels a shared hair dryer might be available at reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer availability then either telephone your hotel in Sao Tome or look on the hotel web site to find out what is available to guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are usable but typically rudimentary models with no diffuser and notorious for low heat and slower air speeds. For those worried about hygiene might want to remove any burnt hair from other guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

Remember, if in doubt either telephone ahead to your hotel in Sao Tome or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Power converters for Sao Tome

Do I need a voltage converter to use a hair dryer in Sao Tome?

The correct model of power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 220 volt power outlet used in Sao Tome. Travellers wishing to bring their own hair dryer can use a power converter, but it could be cheaper to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it will be to buy a power converter. Also worth noting, a power converter is substantially heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable for packing in luggage. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A cheap, small and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Sao Tome, but a heavy and bulkier power converter will convert a 220 volt Sao Tome power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Sao Tome using a type C power adapter

Instructions on how to use your hair dryer in Sao Tome with a 2 pronged Type C power adapter.

  1. Ensure that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power outlet - if not then do not proceed as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Dual voltage hair dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting to use in Sao Tome - consult the owners manual to find out where this switch is found.
  2. You will need to use a Type C plug adapter [4] if the shape of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Sao Tome. The Type C plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries into a power outlet found in Sao Tome simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Insert the Type C plug adapter into the power outlet. This ungrounded plug supply (sometimes called the Europlug or Type C power outlet [3]) can be identified by the 2 circular holes next to each other for live and neutral pins.
  4. Then plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Sao Tome power outlet. Your hair dryer should now be ready to use. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Sao Tome using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Sao Tome using a type F power adapter

A page showing how to use a hair dryer in Sao Tome using a Type F travel charger.

  1. Make sure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 220 volt power outlet - if not then do not proceed as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Dual voltage hair dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting to use in Sao Tome - consult the owners manual to find out where this switch is.
  2. You'll need to buy a Type F plug adapter [6] if the shape of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Sao Tome. The Type F plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet used in Sao Tome by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Start by taking the Type F plug adapter and plugging it in the power outlet. The sunken circular wall outlet (sometimes called the Type F power outlet [5]) can be identified by the two circular holes 19 mm apart from each other for live and neutral pins along with a pair of thin grounding clips at the top and bottom.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Sao Tome power outlet.
  6. Your hair dryer should now be ready to use. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Sao Tome using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia.org web page about Sao Tome
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  4. Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
  5. iec.ch - Type F power outlet
  6. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  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. 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..
  9. 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..
  10. 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..
  11. 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..
  12. 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..
  13. 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..
  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.