How to use your hair dryer in Bulgaria

Bulgarian power outlet

Can I use my hairdryer in Bulgaria?

Check that your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Bulgaria:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you'll only need to bring a suitable power adapter listed below if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit in the outlet.

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 Bulgarian power outlet, however this is significantly heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but won't change the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of power outlet used in Bulgaria, therefore check that your power converter comes with a power adapter for Bulgaria otherwise you will need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Note - your own domestic hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you risk damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts 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 Bulgaria please check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Bulgaria

Will my hair dryer work in Bulgaria?

This will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to handle the 230 volt power outlets in Bulgaria. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to handle 230 volts and you have the appropriate plug adapter then you can use your hair dryer in Bulgaria. If not then you will need to consider using either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter. Read the guide on can you use a power converter to use your hair dryer in Bulgaria for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Will my US hair dryer work in Bulgaria?

The instructions on this page assume that you're a reader from America visiting Bulgaria and provide advice on using your American hair dryer with a Bulgarian power outlet.

Best travel hair dryers for Bulgaria

How to choose the best travel hair dryer

A hair dryer cool shot button

How to choose the best travel hair dryer

When choosing the best hair dryer look for a robust but light dual-voltage model which works with a 230 volt Bulgarian power outlet power outlet, includes a long cable, a folding handle and an ALCI safety plug. When drying thick hair buy a dryer with a stronger 1600+ watt motor and included diffuser.

9 tips for buying a new travel blow dryer

  1. To operate with a 230 volt Bulgarian power outlet your travel hair dryer needs to be dual voltage.
  2. A modern travel dryer might include a 'cool shot' button for quickly cooling hair down after drying to hold in the style but this option is missing in smaller or cheaper models.
  3. Don't risk buying the cheapest travel dryer, as well as safety issues there is a greater chance that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to a poor build.
  4. Look for a lightweight travel hair dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models which have folding handles will mean more space.
  5. Safe travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will minimise the danger of the motor overloading leading to a fire, these are identified with the two 'test' and 'reset' buttons.
  6. If you have thicker or curlier hair then you may require a travel blow dryer which has a stronger motor, a higher wattage ceramic model that has a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby avoiding damage.
  7. The best hair dryers allow you to change both temperature and speed with high and low options - lower temperatures with slower speeds reduce damage to your hair whilst faster hotter speeds will quickly dry thicker hair.
  8. Depending on the hotel room in Bulgaria you might find they have a fixed mirror positioned away from a convenient outlet which makes it hard to operate the blow dryer, so when buying a travel hair dryer shop for a unit with the longest power cord available or bring either a pocket mirror or an extension cable.
  9. It could be cheaper and more convenient to purchase a dryer which is supplied with both a concentrator and diffuser instead of scouring shops to look for more expensive 3rd party attachments.
What is a good folding dual voltage travel ionic hair dryer with diffuser for Bulgaria?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

What is a good folding dual voltage travel ionic hair dryer with diffuser for Bulgaria?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65 metre power cord, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser however lacks cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a lengthy 1.82 metre power cable for more freedom when styling with an ALCI power plug and removable filter for easy cleaning. It uses a strong 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it ideal for drying thicker hair.

Both ionic hair dryers feature a diffuser and concentrator with powerful motors to make them the best travel blow dryers suitable for thick hair. Both require a suitable cheap power adapter for Bulgaria to plug into a Bulgarian power outlet, each hair dryer is lightweight and folds up to pack in carry-on baggage.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good mini travel hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium

Which is a good mini travel hair dryer?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the cheapest mini ionic blow dryer available to buy, this ceramic 1200 watt dryer is best suited for quickly drying fine or thin hair on the go.
  • For a folding hairdryer which is small enough to carry in a purse then a 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat for a glossier finish this dryer manages to incorporate features which are typically reserved for larger blow dryers.

Both mini hair dryers are dual voltage and when used along with a suitable power adapter for a Bulgarian power outlet they should work in Bulgaria and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried for styling on the go. They have a 1.5 metre power cable, have a two speed motor and include a concentrator.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Which is the best hair dryer for thick curly hair?

Thicker hair can take much longer to dry and could be hard to dry without your hair turning frizzy, the best option is an ionic hair dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Both the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer will be suitable because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers, avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor that is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [8] [9] [AD]

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

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

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

  • The Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and features a cool shot setting which can be used to quickly cool hair down to give a longer lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, uses a ceramic tourmaline air outlet meaning faster and safer styling, twin heat settings, a longer 1.8m electric power cable and includes a concentrator.

Both models can fold, have an ALCI power plug which prevents power overloads and support dual voltage making them ideal for visiting Bulgaria in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for a Bulgarian power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best travel blow dryer for Bulgaria?

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 Bulgaria 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.

Bulgaria power outlets and plug sockets

What is the frequency used in a Bulgarian power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current found in a Bulgarian power outlet is 50Hz. [14]

What mains voltage is used in Bulgaria?

The voltage used in Bulgaria is 230 volts.

Which plug adapter do you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Bulgaria?

Type C and F power outlets

Which plug adapter do you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Bulgaria?

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

  • Plug Type C - You can identify the plug socket by 2 circular holes adjacent to each other for live and neutral pins.
  • Plug Type F - This round plug socket (called the type F power outlet or Schuko socket) can be recognised by the two 4.8mm holes 19 mm apart from each other, plus a pair of grounding clips above and below.

A Type F plug adapter is suitable for powering a 230 volt hair dryer in Bulgaria - read the step by step instructions below for full details of using a hair dryer in Bulgaria with a power adapter. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also need to bring a voltage converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

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

Dual voltage hair dryer

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

One way to tell if your hair dryer can support dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or plug. This location might depend on the make or model of your hair dryer and could also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models can change automatically but other hair dryers will have a switch which allows you to toggle between different voltages.

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

How do I change the voltage on a dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  1. Most models of dual voltage hair dryers have a switch or dial which changes between 2 ranges of voltages although some models can automatically detect the voltage from a Bulgarian power outlet.
  2. This switch or dial needs a coin or screwdriver to set the dryer to the right voltage between the 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
  3. In addition to changing this over it is worth jotting down both switch positions as the painted numbers are prone to fading on some models of travel hair dryer.

How can I use a dual voltage blow dryer in Bulgaria?

  1. Check that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer and that it works with a 230 volt power outlet.
  2. If the dryer is dual voltage please ensure that it is set to the 220-240V range. The switch is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to switch.
  3. Plug your dryer into the power adapter for Bulgaria and then plug in the power adapter into the Bulgarian power outlet.
  4. It's common on most dual voltage hair dryer models operating within the 220-240v range to only work safely on their lowest setting - however the temperature and speed should be adequate for drying hair. Please check the hair dryer instructions to see if this is relevant for your model of dual voltage hair dryer to avoid overheating.
  5. Your hair dryer is now ready to be used in Bulgaria.

Travelling to Bulgaria with a hair dryer

Can I pack a hair dryer in my hand luggage?

Folding travel hair dryer

Can I pack a hair dryer in my hand luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA also recommends that you should check that your airline that is flying you to Bulgaria will allow blow dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing your blow 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 and will avoid a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cables tightly around blow dryers). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the most protection against knocks and bumps during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

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

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer instead of packing your existing domestic hair dryer to Bulgaria as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Bulgarian power outlet (provided that you use the correct power adapter for Bulgaria). Travel hair dryers normally feature a collapsible handle and will be much lighter, this will help in reducing the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer. Please note that packing your expensive domestic blow dryer could place it at risk due to potential damage or loss in your luggage by a baggage handlers in Bulgaria. The cost of replacing or repairing an expensive quality domestic hair dryer in Bulgaria could overshadow the cost of buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case .  [17] [AD]

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Bulgaria?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Bulgaria?

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

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

For travellers who are uncertain that a suitable and germ-free hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer.  [2] [AD]

Power converters for Bulgaria

Do you need a power converter to use your hair dryer in Bulgaria?

The correct type voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 230 volt power outlet used in Bulgaria. Travellers wishing to bring along their own domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, but it might be a lot cheaper to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to buy a power converter. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be considerably lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for packing in luggage. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

An expensive and heavy power converter transforms a 230 volt Bulgarian power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, however a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in Bulgaria. [7] [AD]

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

A page on how to power a hair dryer in Bulgaria with a Type C power adapter.

  1. Please make sure that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet but if not then don't attempt these instructions as you could blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Some dual voltage travel blow dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting - please refer to the user guide to find out where the switch is located.
  2. You'll need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4] if the type of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same type of plug outlet used in Bulgaria. The Type C plug adapter helps convert plugs from other countries into an electrical outlet in Bulgaria by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Start the process by inserting the Type C plug adapter in the power outlet. This plug outlet is recognised by the 2 holes next to each other.
  4. Next plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Bulgarian power outlet. You can now switch on your hair dryer in Bulgaria. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Bulgaria using a type C power adapter

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

A step-by-step guide showing how to use your hair dryer in Bulgaria by using a 2 prong Type F travel adapter.

  1. Please make sure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 230 volt power supply but if not then don't continue as you might damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Some dual voltage blow dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer make sure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting - refer to the owners manual to find out where this switch is located.
  2. You will need to buy a Type F plug adapter [6] if the type of power outlet used in Bulgaria isn't the same shape as the plug shape on your hair dryer. The plug adapter will convert different plugs from other countries into an electrical outlet found in Bulgaria simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Start the process by inserting the Type F plug adapter into the wall outlet. You can identify this plug outlet by the two round holes 19 mm adjacent to each other where the twin pins sit along with thin metal grounding clips at the top and bottom.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Bulgarian power outlet.
  6. You can now turn on the blow dryer to use in Bulgaria. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Bulgaria using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - wikipedia.org entry about Bulgaria
  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.