How to use your hair dryer in Algeria

Algerian power outlet

Can I use my blowdryer in Algeria?

Check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Algeria:

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with an 230 volt Algerian power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier, 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 wall outlet used in Algeria, so please check that your power converter comes with the right power adapter for Algeria otherwise you will still need to bring another power adapter. Also worth noting that your existing 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 Algeria you run the potential risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or blowing a fuse. Prior to using your hair dryer in Algeria read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Algeria

Will my hair dryer work in Algeria?

That depends on if your hair dryer is designed to handle the 230 volts as used in Algeria:

How can I use my American hair dryer in Algeria?

The instructions on this page assume that you're a reader from America visiting Algeria and will provide guidance for using your US hair dryer with an Algerian power outlet.

Best travel hair dryers for Algeria

How to choose the best travel hair dryer

Bundled concentrator and diffuser attachments

How to choose the best travel hair dryer

When choosing the best travel hair dryer for Algeria look for a robust but light dual-voltage dryer that operates with an 230 volt Algerian power outlet power outlet, includes a folding handle, ALCI safety plug and a long power cable. 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 travel hair dryer?

  1. Instead of looking for expensive 3rd party attachments to fit the dryer barrel size perfectly it could be cheaper and more convenient to buy a new hair dryer which includes a concentrator and diffuser.
  2. Hotel rooms could have a fixed mirror positioned some distance away from the nearest power outlet which could make it awkward to use the blow dryer, so search for a unit with the longest power cord available.
  3. If you have thicker hair then you might require a travel blow dryer with a more powerful motor - a higher wattage ceramic model which includes a diffuser will dry hair faster to prevent damage.
  4. The best travel hair dryers for styling should give control of both temperature and speed with 2 options, a slower speed with a lower temperature can prevent damage to your hair whilst hotter faster speeds can quickly dry thicker hair.
  5. Safe travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which minimises the danger of overloading the motor leading to starting a fire; you can idenfity these models with the 2 'reset' and 'test' switches found on the plug.
  6. Try to look for a lightweight travel hair dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models with a handle which folds mean more space.
  7. You shouldn't risk buying the cheapest travel hair dryer available; as well as safety concerns there is a greater risk that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to a poor construction.
  8. Your travel hair dryer has to be dual voltage to operate in Algeria.
  9. A 'cool shot' feature on modern blow dryers will rapidly cool hair down after drying which will hold in the style but this feature might be lacking in smaller or cheaper dryers.
Which is a good folding travel hair dryer for Algeria?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

Which is a good folding travel hair dryer for Algeria?

  • With a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler includes 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 resulting in 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 to prevent power overloads and support dual voltage making both perfect for visiting Algeria in carry on luggage when used along with a power adapter for an Algerian power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good hair dryer for thick and curly hair?

Thick hair takes longer to dry and might be hard to dry without the hair going frizzy, 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. Either 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.  [10] [11] [AD]

Which is the best mini folding dual voltage travel hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium travel hair dryer

Which is the best mini folding dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  • For quickly drying thin or fine hair on the go then a ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable mini ionic blowdryer available on the market.
  • A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is both small and lightweight enough to carry in a purse due to it's 10.5 ounce body with folding handle that has options reserved for larger dryers including a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect from heat damage during use which results in a glossy finish.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used with a suitable power adapter for an Algerian power outlet they will work in Algeria folding conveniently enough to be carried for drying on the go. They are two speed, have a 1.5m electric power cable and include a concentrator attachment.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Which is the best folding travel ionic hair dryer with a diffuser attachment?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

Which is the best folding travel ionic hair dryer with a diffuser attachment?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65 metre power cord, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser but doesn't have a cool shot option.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a long 1.82m electric power cable for more freedom when styling with an ALCI power plug and removable filter to clean. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it also has a cool shot button making it perfect for drying thicker hair.

Each ionic hair dryer features both concentrator and diffuser with strong motors to make them the most suitable travel blow dryers for thick hair. Each hair dryer is light and folds up to pack in a carry-on bag and only require a cheap plug adapter for Algeria to fit into an Algerian power outlet.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best blow dryer for Algeria?

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 Algeria 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.

Algeria power outlets and plug sockets

What voltage is used in Algeria?

Power outlets in Algeria are 230 volts.

What electrical frequency is used in Algeria?

The frequency of the current from an Algerian power outlet is 50Hz. [14]

Which travel adapter will you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Algeria?

Type C and F power outlets

Which travel adapter will you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Algeria?

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

  • Plug Type C - You can identify this wall outlet by 2 adjacent holes next to each other where the live and neutral plug socket pins slide into.
  • Plug Type F - This round wall outlet can be identified by two 4.8mm circular adjacent holes next to each other and metal grounding clips above and below.

A recommended travel adapter to bring when using a 230 volt hair dryer in Algeria is a Type F plug adapter; read the step by step guide below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Algeria. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to check if you also have to use a power converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can you change the voltage on a dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which selects between 2 voltages however some dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Algeria.
  2. The switch or dial will normally require either a small coin or screwdriver to change the dryer to the right voltage between a 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
  3. In addition to switching this over it is worth noting down the 2 switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to rubbing off on some models.

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

  1. Ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer and it will work with a 230 volt power socket.
  2. If the dryer supports dual voltage please ensure that it is switched to operate within the 220-240v range. The switch is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to turn.
  3. Plug the dryer into the power adapter for Algeria and also plug in the power adapter into the Algerian power outlet.
  4. It's common on a majority of travel hair dryers operating within the 220-240v range to only work safely on their lowest speed setting, but this temperature should be adequate for drying hair. We recommend checking the manufacturers guidelines to see if this rule is applicable for your model of dual voltage hair dryer to prevent the risk of overheating.
  5. The hair dryer is now ready to operate in Algeria.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

The way to tell if your hair dryer supports dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or handle. The location might depend on the make and model of your hair dryer, it should also be written on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models can change automatically, however other hair dryer models will have a switch which allows you to operate between different regions depending on which country you are visiting.

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

Travelling to Algeria with a hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Algeria have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Algeria have hair dryers?

It depends on the hotel and the quality of the room. Hair dryers in hotels are normally found attached to a bathroom wall unit, these could be of 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 Algeria to find out if a suitable hairdryer available for guests. Hair dryers in hotels are adequate but normally rudimentary models lacking a diffuser and notorious for slow air speeds and low heat. For those concerned with hygiene might want to check for any grime from other guests on a communal hair dryer as room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

Guests who don't want to take a chance that a suitable or germ-free hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer or telephone their hotel in Algeria to check beforehand.  [2] [AD]

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

Bringing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to bringing an existing blow dryer to Algeria (typically marked with 'For domestic use only') as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with an Algerian power outlet (provided that you bring the correct power adapter for Algeria). Travel hair dryers normally feature a collapsing handle and are lighter, this helps reduce the size and weight when packed in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer.

Please be aware that bringing an expensive domestic blow dryer could place it at risk because of potential loss or damage in your suitcase by airport baggage handlers in Algeria. The cost and inconvenience involved in repairing an expensive quality domestic hair dryer in Algeria could be more than purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before travelling to bring with you .  [16] [AD]

Can I bring a blow dryer in my carry on luggage?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I bring a blow dryer in my carry on luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when carrying a mains powered hair dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA suggests that you should check that your airline which is taking you to Algeria will allow a blow dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft.

Packing your 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 avoiding a tangle of cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cords tightly around hair dryers). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the greatest protection against knocks and drops during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Power converters for Algeria

What is the difference between a voltage converter and a plug adapter for Algeria?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a voltage converter and a plug adapter for Algeria?

An expensive and heavy power converter will convert the voltage of 230 volts from an Algerian power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, however a more lightweight and smaller power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in Algeria. [7] [AD]

Can I use a hair dryer with a converter in Algeria?

The correct model of voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 230 volt power outlet used in Algeria. Travellers who wish to use 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 purchase 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]

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

How to use a hair dryer in Algeria by using a 2 pinned Type C travel adapter.

  1. Check that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet but if not then do not continue as you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Some blow dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure you have set it to the 230 volt setting for use in Algeria; refer to the instructions for more details on how to do this.
  2. You'll need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4] if the type of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the plug outlet used in Algeria. This Type C plug adapter is designed to adapt different plugs from other countries for a power outlet found in Algeria by changing the shape of the plug, but it 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 wall outlet. You can identify this wall supply by two round adjacent holes next to each other.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Algerian power outlet. You can now switch on your hair dryer for use in Algeria. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Algeria using a type C power adapter

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

Instructions on how to use your hair dryer in Algeria with a Type F power adapter.

  1. Make sure that your 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 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 to use in Algeria, refer to the instructions for more details on how to do this.
  2. You'll need to use a Type F plug adapter [6] if the type of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the plug outlet used in Algeria. This power adapter helps fit different plugs from other countries for a power outlet used in Algeria 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. Plug in the Type F plug adapter in the wall outlet. This round power supply can be identified by two large circular adjacent holes along with a pair of two thin metal grounding clips above and below.
  4. Next plug in the hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Algerian power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be used in Algeria. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Algeria using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Algerian Wikipedia 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 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. Berta 1875W Folding Hair Dryer Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Negative Ions Travel Dryer - This hair dryer features two speed and heat settings, dual-voltage and a foldable handle whilst equipped with an ALCI plug to help prevent electric shock..
  9. Conair 1875 Watt Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage - This travel-ready hair dryer uses a high 1875-watt motor for efficient and rapid hair drying. Smart voltage technology adjusts to foreign voltage, maintaining heat and speed settings for convenience..
  10. X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - This hair dryer boasts a 1600-watt motor intended for efficient hair drying. The long 1.65-meter cable provides an extra layer of convenience for users who require mobility during use..
  11. Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - The appliance integrates a 1875-watt motor, targeting quick and effective hair drying. The folding handle is intended for easier storage and transport..
  12. BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - With dual heat and speed settings, the device aims to cater to a variety of hair types. Its dual voltage capability, folding handle and lightweight design make it suited for international travel..
  13. Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers..
  14. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  15. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  16. 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.