Which power adapter will I need to bring to use hair straighteners in Eritrea?

Eritrean power outlet

Will my hair straighteners work in Eritrea?

First check your hair straighteners can handle the voltage in Eritrea:

  • If your hair straighteners can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you will only need to bring an appropriate power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair straighteners won't fit in the outlet.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair straighteners and other applicances with an 230 volt Eritrean power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier and more expensive than dedicated travel hair straighteners. A power converter changes the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to fit in the types of power outlet used in Eritrea, so check that your power converter includes a suitable power adapter for Eritrea otherwise you will need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Please be aware your own personal hair straighteners might not be suitable for travel and you could risk potential damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair straighteners won't handle 230 volts used in Eritrea you run the risk of an electrical fire hazard, blowing a fuse or damage to your hair straighteners. Prior to using your hair straighteners in Eritrea please read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using hair straighteners in Eritrea

Will my hair straighteners work in Eritrea?

This depends on if your hair straighteners can handle the 230 volts which are used in Eritrea. If you're using either dual voltage hair straighteners or your hair straighteners can handle 230 volts and you have the appropriate plug adapter then you'll be able to use your hair straighteners in Eritrea. If not then you will need to consider bringing either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter, read our guide on do you need a power converter to use a hair straighteners for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Can I use my US hair straighteners in Eritrea?

The instructions on this page assume that you are an America reader visiting Eritrea and provide guidance for using your US hair straighteners with an Eritrean power outlet.

Eritrea power outlets and plug sockets

What mains voltage is used in Eritrea?

The normal voltage in Eritrea is 230 volts.

What is the electrical frequency used in an Eritrean power outlet?

The frequency used in an Eritrean power outlet is 50Hz. [8]

Which plug adapter will you need for using  hair straighteners in Eritrea?

Type C and L power outlets

Which plug adapter will you need for using hair straighteners in Eritrea?

There are two types of power outlets used in Eritrea, these are type L and C with the primary power outlets being type L:

  • Plug Type C - This unearthed plug outlet (technically called the Europlug) can be recognised by two holes adjacent to each other for live and neutral.
  • Plug Type L - The hexagon shaped wall socket, technically called a type L power outlet, can be recognised by 3 large adjecent holes in a line. Note there are two 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 230 volt hair straighteners in Eritrea - read the step-by-step guide below for full details of how to use hair straighteners in Eritrea with a plug adapter. Note that unless you that have dual voltage hair straighteners you might also have to bring a voltage converter.  [6] [9] [AD]

Dual voltage hair straighteners

How can I tell if my hair straighteners are dual voltage?

Single voltage hair straighteners

How can I tell if my hair straighteners are dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair straighteners will handle a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle or plug. The location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair straighteners and could also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models will change automatically, however other straighteners will have a button which allows you to operate between different regions depending on which country you are visiting.

  • 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 straighteners with an Eritrean 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 an Eritrean power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair straighteners then you should be able to use it in Eritrea.
  • Dual voltage will say a large range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair straighteners will be capable of being used in Eritrea or any other country if these numbers are shown.
 [2] [AD]

Travelling to Eritrea with hair straighteners

Is it safe to bring my hair straighteners to Eritrea?

Packing dual voltage travel hair straighteners are preferable to bringing your existing hair straighteners as it ensures that they will operate correctly with the 230 volt power outlets used with an Eritrean power outlet, as long as you bring the correct power adapter for Eritrea. Note that packing expensive domestic hair straighteners could put them at risk because of potential damage or loss in your check in suitcase by airline baggage handlers. The cost involved in replacing or repairing expensive quality hair straighteners in Eritrea could be higher than purchasing cheap dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] . If you intend to bring along your own personal hair straighteners in your suitcase either slot them inside a boot or sneaker to protect from light damage, or use a shockproof and heat resistant hot tools travel case or heat resistant mat pouch for hair straighteners and curling irons which also allows the hair straighteners to be transported immediately after use without waiting to cool down.   [10] [11] [AD]

Can hair straighteners go in your carry on?

Travel hair straighteners with heat protective cap

Can hair straighteners go in your carry on?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair straighteners there are no restrictions when bringing mains powered hair straighteners in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA recommends that you should check that the airline which is flying you to Eritrea will allow hair straighteners onboard and that they will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft. Packing your hair straighteners in a dedicated heat resistant protective hot tools travel case leaves them easily accessible when going through airport security, they can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cords tightly around electronic items). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive hair straighteners in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against drops and knocks during transit.    [2] [10] [12] [13] [AD]

Power converters for Eritrea

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a power converter for Eritrea?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a power converter for Eritrea?

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to slot into a power outlet found in Eritrea, whereas a more expensive and heavier power converter will transform a 230 volt Eritrean power outlet to work with non-230 volt hair straighteners. [7] [AD]

Do I need a power converter to use hair straighteners in Eritrea?

The correct model of power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow hair straighteners using a different voltage to operate using a 230 volt power outlet used in Eritrea. A power converter is suitable for travellers who want to use their existing domestic hair straighteners, however it might be cheaper to buy dedicated dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] than it is to purchase a power converter. Also, travel hair straighteners can be substantially lighter and smaller than a power converter making travel hair straighteners more suited for travelling. [7] [AD]

Hair straightener safety

Are hair straighteners dangerous?

The temperature of the ceramic plates used in hair straighteners can reach over 200 degrees with the potential to burn hair, skin, and even start a fire if not used correctly. According to figures from Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service electrical beauty products have been responsible for an estimated 650,000 fires in the United Kingdom alone.

How can I minimise risk using hair straighteners?

A heat resistant glove

How can I minimise risk using hair straighteners?

  • Skin protection: Wear heat resistant gloves during styling to protect hands from heat.
  • Children's protection: With 10% of children's burns being caused by hair straighteners it is recommended to look for flat iron hair straighteners which include a heat resistant bag to keep the plates closed shut when not in use, making it easier to store out of reach of children.
  • Luggage protection: Placing hair straighteners directly into luggage without allowing them to cool down can risk damage to clothes and heating up combustible or flammable packed items. If your hair straighteners weren't supplied with a heat protective cap then wrap them in a heat resistant mat or use a hot tools travel case to pack them into luggage whilst warm. A travel case will also keep expensive hair straighteners protected from damage during transit.
  • Hair protection: Applying a heat protectant spray prior to using hair straighteners is essential to prevent burning, as well as using the correct technique for your hair type - read our guide on how to use hair straighteners for comprehensive information.
  • Fire protection: It can take up to 40 minutes for hair straighteners to cool down so resting your straighteners on a heat resistant mat could reduce the risk of setting fire to furniture. Forgetting to turn off hot domestic appliances can also cause fires. This risk can be reduced by using a model of straightener with a timer socket which will turn itself off automatically after a certain length of time, you can also add this feature to any basic straighteners by using a timer socket in a power outlet.    [10] [11] [14] [15] [16] [17] [AD]
How can I add a safety timer to my existing hair straighteners?

Hair straighteners connected to a timer power outlet

How can I add a safety timer to my existing hair straighteners?

1 in 12 owners of hair straighteners admit to forgetting to turn them off after use, unless your hair straighteners have a built in automatic timer then leaving them on could potentially start a fire. However you can add this functionality to any model even if it doesn't have an integrated timer:

  1. Add an automatic timer to any hair straighteners by plugging them into a timer socket then plugging the timer into a power outlet.
  2. Turn on the timer and use the hair straighteners as normal.
  3. After you have finishing using the hair straighteners turn off the power at the outlet.
  4. However if you forget to turn the power outlet off then the timer will automatically switch off the straighteners after a pre-set length of time. Depending on the model of timer this could be 15, 30, 60 or 120 minutes - ideally pick the shortest length of time possible.
  5. For added peace of mind use a power outlet splitter to share the outlet from the timer with both your hair straighteners and a lamp. When the timer is running both the straighteners and the lamp will be turned on, making the lamp a clear indicator that the straighteners are still being heated. When leaving a room it is second nature to ensure all lights are turned off, if the lamp is still on then this acts as a reminder to switch off the straighteners.
  [16] [18] [AD]

How to treat a hot iron burn

If you accidentally burn yourself run cold water under your burn and if it is severe it is advised to seek medical attention from a doctor or hospital.

How to use hair straighteners in Eritrea using a type C power adapter

A page showing how to use your hair straighteners in Eritrea with a Type C travel charger.

  1. Check that your straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply; if not then do not proceed because you could create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your straighteners. Before using a travel straighteners ensure you have set it to the 230 volt setting to use in Eritrea, please refer to the user guide to find out where this switch is.
  2. If the plug on your hair straighteners isn't the same type of outlet used in Eritrea you'll need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4]. This Type C plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries for use in a power outlet in Eritrea simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the hair straighteners to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Start by plugging the Type C plug adapter into the Eritrean power outlet. The wall outlet is recognised by 2 round holes adjacent to each other where the live and neutral pins go.
  4. After that plug in your hair straighteners into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Eritrean power outlet.
  6. You can now turn on the straighteners to use in Eritrea. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Eritrea using a type C power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Eritrea using a type L power adapter

How to power your hair straighteners in Eritrea using a three pinned Type L power adapter.

  1. Check that the hair straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or works with a 230 volt power supply but if not then do not proceed as you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair straighteners or blow a fuse. Before using a travel hair straighteners make sure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting to use in Eritrea - refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on where this switch is.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair straighteners isn't the same shape as the outlet used in Eritrea you'll need to bring a Type L plug adapter [6]. This plug adapter helps adapt plugs from other countries into a power outlet in Eritrea simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of the hair straighteners to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Plug the Type L plug adapter into the power outlet. You can recognise the hexagon shaped wall outlet by the three circular adjecent holes in a line for live, neutral and earth. Please note there are two types of Type L wall outlet, one rated at 10 amps and one for 16 amps. The 10 amp wall outlet has 4mm thick round pins which are spaced 5.5mm apart whilst the 16 amp version has larger 5mm round pins spaced 8mm apart.
  4. Plug in the hair straighteners into the Type L plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Eritrean power outlet.
  6. Your hair straighteners can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Eritrea using a type L power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Eritrea entry on wikipedia
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair straighteners
  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 L power outlet
  6. 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..
  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. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  9. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  10. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  11. Heat resistant mat pouch for hair straighteners and curling irons - Protects surfaces from hot hair irons and wraps around the appliance allowing instant packing into baggage.
  12. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair straighteners -
  13. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
  14. Heat resistant gloves for hair styling - Heat resistant glove recommended to protect skin against the risk of heat from a curling iron, flat iron or hair dryer.
  15. Heat protectant spray - Thermal protector spray used prior to styling with heated tools such as blow dryers and flat irons.
  16. Energy saving outlet with timer - Automatic power shut down of a connected appliance after a preset length of time.
  17. Flat iron hair straighteners which include a heat resistant bag - Example of hair straighteners with a protective bag suitable for travel.
  18. Power outlet splitter - A power outlet splitter transforms a single wall outlet into multiple AC outlets which is a practical solution for using multiple appliances in locations with limited access to power outlets, such as hotels or airports..