Which travel adapter will I need when using a hair dryer in Uganda?

Ugandan power outlet

Can I use my blowdryer in Uganda?

First check that your hair dryer can work in Uganda:

If not then you can either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 240 volt Ugandan power outlet, however this is considerably bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but not the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Uganda, so check that the power converter has the right power adapter for Uganda otherwise you will need to bring a seperate power adapter. Please note - your own existing hair dryer might not be suited for travel and you could risk potential damage in your luggage. [5] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 240 volts used in Uganda you run the potential risk of an electrical fire hazard, blowing a fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Prior to using your hair dryer in Uganda check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Uganda

Will my hair dryer work in Uganda?

It depends on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 240 volts used in Uganda. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to operate using 240 volts and you have the correct power adapter then you'll be able to use the hair dryer in Uganda. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Read our guide on will a power converter work with a hair dryer in Uganda for help deciding which option is more suitable. [5] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Uganda

How to choose the best travel hair dryer for Uganda

Bundled concentrator and diffuser attachments

How to choose the best travel hair dryer for Uganda

When looking for the best travel hair dryer choose a robust but lightweight dual voltage dryer that works with a 240 volt Ugandan power outlet power outlet with a safety plug, folding handle and a long power cable. For drying thick hair look for a model with a bundled diffuser that uses a higher 1600+ watt dryer.

9 things to look for when purchasing a new blow dryer

  1. The safest travel hair dryers will include an ALCI safety plug which reduces the danger of the motor overloading that could start fires; these can be recognised by the two 'reset' and 'test' buttons on the plug.
  2. If you have curlier or thicker hair then you could require a hair dryer with a more powerful motor; a high wattage ceramic dryer which includes a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby preventing damage.
  3. Some hotel rooms in Uganda could have a wall mirror installed away from the nearest power outlet making it cumbersome to dry hair, so when buying a hair dryer search for a model with the longest power cord possible.
  4. Buying the cheapest hair dryer on the market could be risky - as well as issues with safety there is a greater risk that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to a flimsy build.
  5. It could be cheaper purchasing a hair dryer which includes a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer rather than scouring stores looking for more expensive third party attachments.
  6. Your travel hair dryer needs to be dual voltage in order to function in Uganda.
  7. A modern travel dryer might feature a 'cool shot' option for rapidly cooling hair down after drying to hold a style but this feature could be lacking in smaller or cheaper models.
  8. The best hair dryers should give control of both speed and temperature settings with 2 options; slower speeds with lower temperatures reduce damage to hair and hotter faster speeds will quickly dry thicker hair.
  9. Look for a lightweight travel hair dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers which have a handle which folds mean more room.
Which is the best travel hair dryer with cool shot?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with attached concentrator

Which is the best travel hair dryer with cool shot?

  • With a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler includes cool shot which can be used to rapidly cool hair down which gives it a longer lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, uses a ceramic tourmaline outlet resulting in safer drying, two heat options, a longer 1.8 metre power cable and also comes with a concentrator.

Both models can fold, have an ALCI power plug which prevents power overloads and has dual voltage making them perfect for visiting Uganda in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for a Ugandan power outlet.  [6] [6] [7] [AD]

Which is the best hair dryer for thick or curly hair?

Thicker hair will take longer to dry and might be difficult to do so without the hair going frizzy, the best option for thicker hair is an ionic dryer, if the hair is curly use a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly. 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 included diffusers, avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [8] [9] [AD]

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with diffuser?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with diffuser?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m electric power cable, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser however is missing cool shot.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a longer 1.82 metre power cable for more flexibility when styling with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter to clean. With a strong 1875 watt motor it includes cool shot making it more suited for styling thicker hair.

Both ionic travel hair dryers feature a concentrator and diffuser with strong motors to make them the most suitable travel blow dryers for thick hair. They are both lightweight and fold up to fit in carry-on luggage, only requiring a cheap plug adapter for Uganda to work with a Ugandan power outlet.  [8] [9] [9] [AD]

What is a good mini ionic travel hair dryer with dual voltage?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator

What is a good mini ionic travel hair dryer with dual voltage?

  • A Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable small ionic hair dryer available on the market, the 1200 watt ceramic dryer will be suitable for quickly drying thin and fine hair on the go.
  • For a dryer which is lightweight enough to transport in a handbag then the 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage this dryer has features which are typically reserved for larger models.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used along with the right plug adapter for a Ugandan power outlet they will work in Uganda folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried around all day for styling on the go. They include a concentrator attachment, have 1.5 metre power cables and have a 2 speed motor.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best blow dryer for Uganda?

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 Uganda 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.

Uganda power outlets and plug sockets

What mains voltage is used in Uganda?

Power outlets in Uganda are 240 volts.

What is the frequency used with a Ugandan power outlet?

The frequency found in a Ugandan power outlet is 50 Hz. [12]

Which power adapter do you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Uganda?

Type G power outlet

Which power adapter do you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Uganda?

The type of power outlet used in Uganda is type G. You can identify this plug socket by 3 vertical rectangular slots with shutters in a triangle shape. A Type G power adapter will allow you to use a 240 volt hair dryer in Uganda, read the simple guide below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Uganda with a power adapter. Please note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also need to bring a power converter.  [4] [13] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How should I change the voltage on a travel hair dryer?

  1. Most dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which changes between two voltages however some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from a Ugandan power outlet.
  2. This dial or switch needs a small coin or screwdriver to set the dryer to the right voltage between a 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
  3. Also, it is worth noting down the two switch positions as the painted numbers are prone to rubbing off on some models of travel hair dryer.
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 a dual voltage power outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the base, handle or the plug. The location might depend on the make or model of your hair dryer and could also be written in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair dryers will change automatically but other hair dryer models will have a button which allows you to toggle between different voltage ranges depending on which country you are visiting.

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

How can you use a dual voltage blow dryer in Uganda?

  1. Ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or that it will work with a 240 volt power socket.
  2. If your hair dryer supports dual voltage then make sure that it is switched to work in the 220-240 volt 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 the dryer into the power adapter for Uganda, then plug in the power adapter into the Ugandan power outlet.
  4. It is normal for a majority of travel hair dryers operating in the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on their lowest speed setting, but this temperature and speed should still be adequate for drying hair. Always check the hair dryer guidelines to see if this is applicable for your model of dual voltage dryer to stop the risk of overheating.
  5. The hair dryer can now be operated with a Ugandan power outlet.

Travelling to Uganda with a hair dryer

Can you carry on a hair dryer to Uganda in your hand luggage?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can you carry on a hair dryer to Uganda in your hand luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA suggests that you should verify that the airline which is taking you to Uganda will allow a blow dryer 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 cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping wires tightly around blow dryers). If you do intend to bring fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the greatest protection against knocks and bumps during transit.   [14] [15] [16] [AD]

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Uganda?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Uganda?

This depends on the hotel or bed and breakfast and the class of the room. Hotel hair dryers are typically found on a bathroom wall, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or might be located in the bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard.

If staying in budget hotels, hostels and motels a shared hair dryer might be offered at the reception but that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer policy you could either telephone your hotel in Uganda or check on the hotel web site to find out what type of hairdryer is available for guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are adequate but typically basic models lacking a diffuser and notorious for low heat and slow air speeds. For those concerned with hygiene should remove the burnt hair cuticles from other guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

For guests who don't want to take a chance that a suitable or hygienic hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer or phone the hotel in Uganda to check first.  [2] [AD]

Should you bring a travel hair dryer or domestic hair dryer to Uganda?

Packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to bringing an existing hair dryer to Uganda as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 240 volt power outlets used with a Ugandan power outlet (provided that you bring the correct power adapter for Uganda). Travel hair dryers normally feature a folding handle and will be lighter which helps reduce the size and weight in luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer.

Note that packing your expensive domestic hair dryer could place it at risk due to potential damage or loss in your suitcase by airport baggage handlers. The inconvenience and costs involved in repairing an expensive quality blow dryer in Uganda might outweigh the cost of buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case .  [15] [AD]

Power converters for Uganda

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

A power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 240 volt power outlet used in Uganda. A power converter is more suited for travellers wishing to bring along their own domestic hair dryer, however it could be less expensive to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it will be to buy a power converter. Also, a power converter is substantially bulkier and heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable when packing compared to a travel hair dryer. [5] [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?

A lightweight, cheap and small power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet found in Uganda, however a heavy and bulkier power converter will transform a 240 volt Ugandan power outlet to work with a non-240 volt hair dryer. [5] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Uganda using a type G power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Uganda with a Type G power adapter.

  1. Ensure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 240 volt power supply; if it doesn't then don't proceed because you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Some dual voltage travel blow dryers will sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure the switch is set to accept 240 volts to use in Uganda; consult the manufacturers instructions to find out where the switch is found.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet which is used in Uganda you will need to bring a Type G plug adapter [4]. The power adapter helps adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet found in Uganda by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 240 volt supply.
  3. Plug in the Type G plug adapter in the Ugandan power outlet. This wall supply (known as the Type G power outlet [3]) can be identified by 3 rectangular holes containing shutters forming a triangular configuration for live, neutral and ground pins.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Ugandan power outlet.
  6. Your hair dryer is now ready for use in Uganda. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Uganda using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - wikipedia web page about Uganda
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  4. Type G plug adapter - An earthed BS 1363 certified UK power adapter, featuring a fuse to protect against overload and consequent fire risks. Ideal for use in over 50 countries, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and also in international cities like Dubai and Hong Kong..
  5. 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..
  6. 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..
  7. 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..
  8. 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..
  9. 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..
  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. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  13. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  14. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  15. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  16. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.