How to use your hair dryer in Tunisia

Tunisian power outlet

Will my blow dryer work in Tunisia?

First check that your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Tunisia:

If not then you can either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Tunisian power outlet, however this is noticeably bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but won't change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Tunisia, so please check that your power converter has an appropriate power adapter for Tunisia otherwise you will still need to bring another power adapter. Also worth noting that your personal hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you could risk potential damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle the 230 volts used in Tunisia you run the risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or blowing a fuse. Prior to using your hair dryer in Tunisia read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Tunisia

Will my hair dryer work in Tunisia?

This will depend on if your hair dryer can operate using the 230 volt power outlets in Tunisia:

Can I use my American hair dryer in Tunisia?

The guides on this page assume that you are a reader from America visiting Tunisia and will provide guidance for using your American hair dryer with a Tunisian power outlet.

Best travel hair dryers for Tunisia

Choosing the best blow dryer for Tunisia

An ALCI safety plug

Choosing the best blow dryer for Tunisia

When choosing the best hair dryer for Tunisia look for a strong but lightweight dual voltage model which will operate with a 230 volt Tunisian power outlet power outlet, has a long cable, a folding handle and an ALCI safety plug. When drying thick hair look for a dryer with a faster 1600+ watt dryer and included diffuser.

What should I look for when purchasing a blow dryer?

  1. Modern travel dryers feature a 'cool shot' button for quickly cooling hair down after drying to hold in the style but this feature could be lacking in smaller models.
  2. To operate in Tunisia the hair dryer needs to be dual voltage.
  3. Try to look for a lighter travel dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models with a folding handle will mean more room to pack other items.
  4. Buying the cheapest dryer is risky; as well as safety concerns there is a greater risk that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to a poor build.
  5. The best travel hair dryers for styling will give control of both temperature and speed with two options; a faster hotter speed will dry hair quicker whilst a slower speed with a lower temperature will prevent damage to your hair.
  6. Safe travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which minimises the danger of overloading the motor and starting an electrical fire, these can be recognised by the two 'test' and 'reset' switches found on the plug.
  7. Thicker hair could require a travel blow dryer with a more powerful motor, a high wattage ceramic dryer that has a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby preventing damage.
  8. Rather than scouring shops to look for expensive 3rd party attachments it might be cheaper to buy a new hair dryer which is supplied with both a concentrator and a diffuser.
  9. Depending on your accommodation in Tunisia you might find a mirror installed too far away from a convenient outlet which makes it awkward to style hair, therefore when buying a travel hair dryer find the lengthiest power cord possible or bring either a pocket mirror or an extension cord.
What is a good dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser for Tunisia?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser

What is a good dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser for Tunisia?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65m electric power cable, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser however doesn't have cool shot.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a generous 1.82 metre power cord for more freedom when drying with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter for easy cleaning. It utilises a powerful 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it suitable for styling thicker hair.

Both ionic travel hair dryers include both concentrator and diffuser with strong motors to make them the most suitable hair dryers for thick hair. They are both lightweight and will fold up to fit into a carry-on bag and only require a power adapter for Tunisia to fit into a Tunisian power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is the best mini ionic travel hair dryer for Tunisia?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium

Which is the best mini ionic travel hair dryer for Tunisia?

  • A Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable mini ionic blowdryer available on the market, the 1200 watt ceramic dryer will be most suited for quickly drying thin or fine hair whilst on the go.
  • For a dryer which is compact enough to transport in a handbag then a 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat to protect against heat damage this dryer manages to include features typically reserved for bulkier models.

Both of these mini hair dryers are dual voltage and when used in combination with the right plug adapter for a Tunisian power outlet they should work in Tunisia and fold conveniently enough to be carried for styling on the go. They have a 1.5m electric power cable, have a 2 speed motor and include a concentrator.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Which is a good blow dryer for thick hair?

Thicker hair will take longer to dry and might be hard to dry without hair going frizzy, so the best option for thick hair will be an ionic hair dryer, if the hair is curly use a diffuser as both are suitable to dry and manage hair smoothly without frizz. Both an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic are suitable because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good compact dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with bundled concentrator

Which is a good compact dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot?

  • The Conair Compact Styler has a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and features a cool shot button which can be used to rapidly cool down hair.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, a tourmaline ceramic outlet meaning quicker and safer styling, two heat options, a longer 1.8m electric power cable and includes a concentrator.

Both models fold, have an ALCI power plug which prevents power overloads and support dual voltage making both perfect for visiting Tunisia in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for a Tunisian power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best travel hair dryer to buy for Tunisia?

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 Tunisia 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.

Tunisia power outlets and plug sockets

What electrical frequency is used with a Tunisian power outlet?

The frequency of the current from a Tunisian power outlet is 50Hz. [14]

What is the mains voltage in Tunisia?

The standard residential voltage used in Tunisia is 230 volts.

Which plug adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Tunisia?

Type C and E power outlets

Which plug adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Tunisia?

There are two different types of power outlets used in Tunisia, these are type E and C with the primary power outlets being type E:

  • Plug Type C - The plug socket can be identified by the two round holes next to each other.
  • Plug Type E - You can identify this wall outlet by two 4.8mm round adjacent holes next to each other and a metal grounding pin protruding from the top to form a triangular shape.

A suitable plug adapter to bring to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Tunisia is a Type E power adapter - read the simple instructions below for full details of using a hair dryer in Tunisia. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to confirm if you need to bring a voltage converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer supports dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the base, handle or the plug. The location will vary depending on the make or model of your hair dryer and could also be written on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair dryers will change automatically but other hair dryers will have a switch which allows you to operate between different regions.

  • Single voltage could say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Tunisia then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Tunisian power outlet.
  • Single voltage might also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 230 volts used in a Tunisian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Tunisia.
  • Dual voltage will say a large voltage range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Tunisia or any other country if these numbers are shown.

How do I switch a dual voltage hair dryer?

  1. Most dual voltage hair dryers have a switch or dial which toggles between two sets of voltages although some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Tunisia.
  2. This dial or switch needs a screwdriver or coin to set the hair dryer to the correct voltage between the 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
  3. Also, it's worth jotting down both switch positions as the painted numbers can sometimes fade on certain models of travel hair dryer.

How can you use your dual voltage hair dryer in Tunisia?

  1. Ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer and it will work with a 230 volt power socket.
  2. If the hair dryer supports dual voltage please ensure that it is switched to operate within the 220-240V range. This is normally found on the base or handle of the blow dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to turn.
  3. Plug the dryer into the correct power adapter for Tunisia, then plug in the power adapter into the Tunisian power outlet.
  4. It's common on a majority of travel hair dryers operating within the 220-240V range to only work safely on a low setting - but this temperature should be sufficient enough for drying hair. Always check the hair dryer instructions to find out if this rule is applicable for your model of dual voltage dryer to stop overheating.
  5. Your dryer is now ready to operate in Tunisia.

Travelling to Tunisia with a hair dryer

Is it safe to bring my domestic blow dryer to Tunisia?

Bringing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to bringing an existing hair dryer to Tunisia (typically marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Tunisian power outlet (as long as you use the correct power adapter for Tunisia). A travel hair dryer will normally feature a folding handle and will be much lighter, this helps reduce the size and weight when packed in luggage compared to packing a domestic blow dryer. Note that bringing an expensive domestic blow dryer might put it at risk due to potential damage or loss in transit by an airline baggage handler. The inconvenience and costs of replacing or repairing an expensive specialised blow dryer in Tunisia could outweigh the costs of buying a much cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [16] [AD]

Can you carry on a hair dryer to Tunisia?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can you carry on a hair dryer to Tunisia?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA suggests that you should check that the airline that is flying you to Tunisia will allow a blow dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft.

Packing your hair dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible by airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cables tightly around electronic items). If you do intend to bring fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the most protection against bumps and knocks during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Tunisia?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Tunisia?

It will all depend on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and the class of the room. Hair dryers in hotels are normally found in the bathroom, these could be a slower air hose variety, or could be found in the bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard.

In cheaper hotels, hostels and motels a shared hair dryer could be available at the reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt as to hotel hairdryer availability you should either look on the hotel web site or call ahead to your hotel in Tunisia to find out if a suitable hairdryer available to guests. Hair dryers in hotels are adequate but normally rudimentary models lacking a diffuser, notorious for providing slower air speeds and low heat. For those concerned with hygiene might want to remove grime from other guests on a communal hair dryer as room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

Remember, if in doubt either call ahead to your hotel in Tunisia or use a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Power converters for Tunisia

Do I need a converter in Tunisia to use a hair dryer?

The correct type voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 230 volt power outlet used in Tunisia. Travellers wishing to bring along their own domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, however it could be more costly to buy a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also worth noting, a power converter is noticeably bulkier and heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suited for packing in luggage compared to a travel hair dryer. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

An expensive and heavy power converter will convert the voltage of 230 volts from a Tunisian 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 slot into a power outlet in Tunisia. [7] [AD]

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

Instructions showing how to power a hair dryer in Tunisia by using a Type C power charger.

  1. Please make sure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 230 volt power outlet but if not then don't attempt these instructions as you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Dual voltage blow dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure you have set it to accept 230 volts for use in Tunisia; refer to the instructions to find out how to do this.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet which is used in Tunisia you'll need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4]. The Type C plug adapter is designed to fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for use with an electrical outlet in Tunisia by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Start the process by taking the Type C plug adapter and plugging it into the Tunisian power outlet. You can recognise the power supply by 2 holes next to each other where the two pins slide into.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Tunisian power outlet. Your hair dryer should now be ready for use in Tunisia. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Tunisia using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Tunisia using a type E power adapter

How to use your hair dryer in Tunisia with a two prong Type E travel adapter.

  1. Check that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 230 volt power supply - but if it doesn't then do not continue as you might blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting - please consult the owners manual to find out where the switch is found.
  2. You will need to bring a Type E plug adapter [6] if the shape of the power outlet used in Tunisia won't take the plug on your hair dryer. This power adapter will convert plugs on appliances from other countries for a power outlet used in Tunisia simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Plug in the Type E plug adapter in the wall outlet. This round power outlet (called a Type E power outlet [5] or CEE 7/7 outlet) can be identified by the two 4.8mm round holes 19mm apart from each other plus a long metal earth pin protruding in the top in a triangle shape.
  4. Then plug in the hair dryer into the Type E plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Tunisian power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on your hair dryer for use in Tunisia. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Tunisia using a type E power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Tunisia Wikipedia web page
  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 E power outlet
  6. Type E plug adapter - A CEE 7/5 socket and CEE 7/6 plug compliant Type E adapter designed with a focus on safety, featuring two round pins and an earthing hole. Ideal for use in the France, Belgium, Poland and several African nations..
  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. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  17. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.