Using a hair dryer in Eritrea
Can I use my hairdryer in Eritrea?
First check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Eritrea:
- If your hair dryer can run on 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you will only need to bring the right power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit in the outlet.
If not then either:
- Use a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] - you could need to use the correct power adapter for Eritrea but these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for travel. Before buying read nine things to look for when purchasing a travel blow dryer, six of the best travel blow dryers in 2023 compared and guide to the best travel blow driers guaranteed to work in Eritrea.
- Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with an 230 volt Eritrean power outlet, however this is substantially heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Eritrea, so check that your voltage transformer comes with an appropriate power adapter for Eritrea otherwise you will need to purchase another power adapter. Be aware that your existing hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you could risk damage in your suitcase. [7] [AD]
Using a hair dryer in Eritrea
Will my hair dryer work in Eritrea?
That will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to handle the 230 volt power outlets used in Eritrea:
- If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to operate using 230 volts and you have the appropriate plug adapter then you should be able to use it in Eritrea.
- If not then then you will need to consider purchasing either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter, read our section on can you use a power converter with your domestic hair dryer in Eritrea for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]
Will my American hair dryer work in Eritrea?
The instructions on this page assume that you are a reader from the US travelling to Eritrea and provide guidance for using your American hair dryer with an Eritrean power outlet.
Best travel hair dryers for Eritrea
A hair dryer cool shot button
What to look for when choosing a hair dryer for Eritrea
When looking for the best hair dryer for Eritrea choose a robust but lightweight dual-voltage model that works with an 230 volt Eritrean power outlet power outlet, has ALCI safety plug, long power cord and a folding handle. For drying thick hair buy one with a bundled diffuser that uses a faster 1600+ watt motor.
What should I look for when buying a travel hair dryer?
- It could be more convenient and cheaper to buy a hair dryer which includes both a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer rather than scouring stores to look for expensive third party attachments.
- Suitable hair dryers for styling allow you to alter the temperature and speed settings with 2 options, hotter faster speeds will quickly dry thicker hair whilst a lower temperature with a slower speed will reduce damage to your hair.
- Some hotel rooms might have a mirror positioned too far away from a power outlet making it hard to dry hair, so when buying a travel blow dryer find the longest power cord possible.
- If you have curlier or thicker hair then you could need a travel blow dryer which has a more powerful motor. A higher wattage ceramic dryer that includes a diffuser will dry hair faster to avoid damage.
- Try looking for lightweight travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models which have a handle which folds will mean more space for packing other items.
- The safest travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which reduces the risk of the motor overloading and starting electrical fires, you can recognise these models by the the 2 'test' and 'reset' buttons.
- Modern hair dryers might feature a 'cool shot' option for quickly cooling hair down after drying to hold a style but this feature is missing in smaller models.
- Don't risk buying the cheapest hair dryer available, as well as safety issues there is a greater chance that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to cheaper components.
- A travel hair dryer needs to be dual voltage in order to operate with an 230 volt Eritrean power outlet.
Berta Folding Hair Dryer with bundled concentrator
What is the best compact dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot for Eritrea?
- A Conair Compact Styler has a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and includes a cool shot setting which can will rapidly cool hair down.
- The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot setting, uses a tourmaline ceramic air outlet resulting in quicker and safer drying, two heat settings, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cord and also includes a concentrator.
Both models can fold, have an ALCI safety plug to prevent power overloads and has dual voltage making them perfect for travel to Eritrea in carry on luggage when used with a power adapter for an Eritrean power outlet. [8] [8] [9] [AD]
What is the best blow dryer for thick curly hair?
Thicker hair will take longer to dry and will be hard to do so without hair turning frizzy. The best option for this type of hair is an ionic blow dryer, if the hair is curly 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 because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair. [10] [11] [AD]
The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle
What is the best mini ionic dual voltage hair dryer?
- If you want to dry thin or fine hair whilst on the go then a 1200 watt ceramic Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable small ionic hairdryer available to buy.
- The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is both lightweight and small enough to transport in a purse due to the 10.5 ounce body and folding handle that has features reserved for larger hair dryers including a tourmaline outlet which can emit infrared heat to protect from heat damage during styling which results in a shiny finish.
Both of these mini hair dryers have dual voltage when used in combination with a suitable power adapter for an Eritrean power outlet they should work in Eritrea folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried for drying on the go. Both include a concentrator attachment, have 1.5 metre electric power cables and a two speed motor. [12] [12] [13] [AD]
Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer
What is the best travel ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment for Eritrea?
- A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m power cable, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however lacks cool shot.
- The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a generous 1.82m power cord for more flexibility when drying with an ALCI power plug and removable filter for easy cleaning. It also utilises a strong 1875 watt motor including a cool shot option making it more suited for drying thick hair.
Each ionic hair dryer includes both concentrator and diffuser attachments with powerful motors to make them the best blow dryers for thick hair. Both will require a suitable plug adapter for Eritrea to plug into an Eritrean power outlet, they are lightweight and will fold up to pack into carry-on luggage. [10] [11] [11] [AD]
Best hair dryers for travel
What is the best hair dryer for Eritrea?
| Conair MiniPRO  |
BaByliss PRO  |
Conair Compact  |
Berta Folding  |
X5 Superlite  |
Hot Tools 1044  |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class | Mini | Compact | Compact with diffuser | |||
| Works in Eritrea | 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.
Eritrea power outlets and plug sockets
What is the mains voltage in Eritrea?
Power outlets in Eritrea are 230 volts.
What frequency is used in an Eritrean power outlet?
The frequency in an Eritrean power outlet is 50Hz. [14]
Type C and L power outlets
Which power adapter do you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Eritrea?
There are two different types of power outlets used in Eritrea, types L and C with the primary power outlets being type L:
- Plug Type C - You can identify the wall socket by the two adjacent holes next to each other where the live and neutral pins go.
- Plug Type L - The hexagon shaped power outlet (technically called a type L power outlet) can be recognised by 3 large adjecent holes forming a line. Note there are two different variations of Type L plug outlet rated for 10 and 16 amps. The 10 amp version has 4mm round pins spaced 5.5mm apart, and the 16 amp version has larger 5mm thick pins spaced 8mm apart.
A Type L power adapter allows you to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Eritrea - read the step-by-step guide below for full details of using a hair dryer in Eritrea. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to see if you have to bring a power converter. [6] [15] [AD]
Dual voltage hair dryers
How do I use my dual voltage blow dryer in Eritrea?
- Check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it will work with a 230 volt power outlet.
- If the dryer supports dual voltage then ensure it is set to operate within the 220-240 volt range. The switch is normally found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to turn.
- Plug the hair dryer into the power adapter for Eritrea, also plug in the power adapter into the Eritrean power outlet.
- It's common on most travel hair dryer models operating within the 220-240V range to only work safely on a low speed setting - however the temperature should still be adequate enough for drying hair. Please check the manufacturers instructions to see if this rule is relevant for your model of hair dryer to stop the risk of overheating.
- Your dryer can now be used in Eritrea.
How should you change the voltage on a travel hair dryer?
- Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which toggles between 2 types of voltages however some models can automatically detect the voltage used in Eritrea.
- The dial or switch will normally require a coin or screwdriver to change the hair dryer to the right voltage between a 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
- In addition to switching this it's worth making a note of the 2 switch positions as the painted numbers can occasionally fade on some models of travel dryer.
Dual voltage hair dryer
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?
An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer can accept a dual voltage power outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the base, handle or plug of your hair dryer. The location might depend on the make or model of your hair dryer, it could also be written on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models will change automatically but other hair dryer models will feature a button which allows you to toggle between different voltage ranges depending on which country you are in.
- Single voltage could say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Eritrea then you should be able to use your hair dryer with an Eritrean power outlet.
- Single voltage could also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 230 volts used in an Eritrean power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Eritrea.
- Dual voltage will typically say a large range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Eritrea or any other country if these numbers are shown.
Travelling to Eritrea with a hair dryer
Hotel hair dryer
Do hotel rooms in Eritrea have hair dryers?
This will all depend on the hotel or bed and breakfast and the quality of the room. Hotel room hair dryers are normally found in the bathroom, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or might be located in the bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer. In budget hotels, motels and hostels a shared hair dryer might be available at reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer policy you could either telephone your hotel in Eritrea or look on the hotel web site to find out if a suitable hairdryer available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but are typically rudimentary models with no diffuser and notorious for low heat and slower air speeds. For those concerned with hygiene should check for grime from other guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.
Remember, if you are in doubt either call ahead to your hotel in Eritrea or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. [2] [AD]
Is it safe to bring a domestic blow dryer to Eritrea?
It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to bringing your existing domestic blow dryer to Eritrea as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with an Eritrean power outlet (as long as you use the correct plug adapter for Eritrea). Travel hair dryers typically feature a folding handle and are much lighter, this will help reduce the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer.
Please note that packing an expensive domestic hair dryer could put it at risk because of potential loss or damage in your luggage by an airport baggage handler in Eritrea. The inconvenience and costs involved in repairing or replacing an expensive specialised domestic blow dryer in Eritrea might be higher than buying a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off . [16] [AD]
Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on
Can I pack a blow dryer in my hand luggage to Eritrea?
According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA recommends that you should verify that your airline who is taking you to Eritrea will allow hair dryers 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 for airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping wires tightly around electronic items). If you 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]
Power converters for Eritrea
Voltage converter
What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter for Eritrea?
A lightweight, small and cheap power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Eritrea, whereas a heavier and more expensive power converter will convert a 230 volt Eritrean power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]
Do you need a converter to use your hair dryer in Eritrea?
The correct voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 230 volt power outlet used in Eritrea. A power converter is more suitable for travellers who wish to use their own hair dryer, however it can be less expensive to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to purchase a power converter. Also, a travel hair dryer can be considerably smaller and lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for travelling. [7] [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Eritrea using a type C power adapter
How to use a hair dryer in Eritrea using a two pronged Type C power adapter.
- Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply; but if not then do not proceed as you might damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage hair dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure you have set it to accept 230 volts; please consult the owners manual to find out how to do this.
- If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Eritrea you will need to use a Type C plug adapter [4]. This Type C plug adapter will adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet found in Eritrea by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
- Start by plugging the Type C plug adapter into the Eritrean power outlet. The wall outlet is identified by 2 circular holes next to each other.
- After that plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
- Turn on the Eritrean power outlet. You can now turn on your blow dryer to use in Eritrea. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Eritrea using a type L power adapter
How to power your hair dryer in Eritrea with a Type L power adapter.
- Make sure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply - if not then do not attempt these instructions because you could damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage hair dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure the switch is set to accept 230 volts, consult the owners manual for more details on how to do this.
- You will need to buy a Type L plug adapter [6] if the shape of the power outlet which is used in Eritrea isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair dryer. The Type L plug adapter helps fit different plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet used in Eritrea by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
- Start the process by plugging the Type L plug adapter into the Eritrean power outlet. You can identify the hexagon shaped plug supply by the three large adjecent holes in a line. Note that there are two types of Type L power supply rated at 10 amps and 16 amps. The 10 amp wall outlet has 4mm round pins which are spaced 5.5mm apart and the 16 amp version has larger 5mm pins spaced 8mm apart.
- Plug in the hair dryer into the Type L plug adapter.
- Turn on the Eritrean power outlet.
- Your hair dryer can now be turned on. [AD]
See also
External links
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- Wikipedia - Eritrea country entry on Wikipedia
- Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
- iec.ch - Type C power outlet
- 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..
- iec.ch - Type L power outlet
- Type L plug adapter - A Type L travel adapter is compatible with Italy's 10A and 16A grounded outlets and can also be used in other countries like Chile and Uruguay which use the Italian standard CEI 23-50..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
- iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
- Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
- tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
- Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
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