How do I use my hair dryer in The Sudan?

Sudanese power outlet

Can I use my blow dryer in The Sudan?

Check that your hair dryer can work in The Sudan:

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Sudanese power outlet, however this is noticeably bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter changes the voltage but won't change the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in The Sudan, therefore check that your voltage transformer comes with a suitable power adapter for The Sudan otherwise you will need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Also worth noting that your own existing hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you could risk damage in your suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts used in The Sudan you run the risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or blowing a fuse. Prior to using your hair dryer in The Sudan check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in The Sudan

Will my hair dryer work in The Sudan?

It depends on if your hair dryer can handle the 230 volts which are used in The Sudan. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can operate using 230 volts and you have the appropriate plug adapter then you can use it in The Sudan. If not then you will need to consider buying either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Read the guide on can you use a power converter with a domestic hair dryer in The Sudan for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for The Sudan

What to look for when choosing a blow dryer

An ALCI safety plug

What to look for when choosing a blow dryer

When choosing the best hair dryer look for a strong but light dual voltage model that works with a 230 volt Sudanese power outlet power outlet with a long power cord, a safety plug and a folding handle. When drying thicker hair buy one with a diffuser that uses a faster 1600+ watt motor.

What should you look for when buying a travel blow dryer?

  1. If you have thicker hair then you may require a hair dryer with a stronger motor, a higher wattage ceramic dryer that includes a diffuser will dry hair faster to prevent damage.
  2. Depending on your hotel room in The Sudan there might be a wall mirror positioned too far away from the nearest power outlet making it hard to style hair, therefore search for the longest power cord possible.
  3. The safest travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will minimise the danger of overloading leading to fires, these are identified with the two reset and test switches.
  4. It could be more convenient and cheaper buying a new dryer which is supplied with a diffuser and concentrator from the manufacturer instead of scouring shops to look for expensive third party attachments which fit the dryer barrel size securely.
  5. Buying the cheapest hair dryer could be risky; as well as issues with safety there is a greater chance that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to a flimsy build.
  6. Suitable hair dryers for styling should give control of both speed and temperature with 2 options - a slower speed with a lower temperature should reduce damage to hair whilst a faster hotter speed can dry thicker hair quicker.
  7. Your hair dryer needs to support dual voltage to work with a 230 volt Sudanese power outlet.
  8. Modern hair dryers include a 'cool shot' button for rapidly cooling down the hair after drying to hold the style but this option lacks in smaller models.
  9. Try looking for a lighter travel hair dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers with folding handles will mean more space to pack other items.
Which is the best compact travel hair dryer?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle

Which is the best compact travel hair dryer?

  • The Conair Compact Styler has a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and includes cool shot which can will quickly cool down hair which gives it a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has a cool shot button, a ceramic tourmaline air outlet resulting in safer and faster styling, twin heat options, a longer 1.8m power cable and also includes a concentrator attachment.

Both models can fold, have an ALCI safety plug to prevent overloading and support dual voltage making them ideal for visiting The Sudan in carry on luggage if used with a power adapter for a Sudanese power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is the best blow dryer for thick and curly hair?

Thick hair can take longer to dry and might be difficult to dry without hair turning frizzy, so the best option for thick hair is an ionic blow dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly. Both the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are suitable as they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers - avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [10] [11] [AD]

What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer for The Sudan?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium travel hair dryer

What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer for The Sudan?

  • To dry thin and fine hair on the go the ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable small ionic blowdryer available to buy.
  • For a blow dryer which is both lightweight and small enough to carry in a handbag then the 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat to protect from heat damage this dryer has features typically reserved for bulkier models.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used with a suitable plug adapter for a Sudanese power outlet they will work in The Sudan and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried around during the day for drying on the go. Both have a two speed motor, have a 1.5m electric power cord and include a concentrator attachment.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser

What is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65 metre power cable, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however lacks a cool shot option.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a long 1.82 metre power cable for greater freedom when drying with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter for easy cleaning. With a strong 1875 watt motor it also has cool shot making it perfect for drying thick hair.

Each ionic hair dryer includes a concentrator and diffuser attachment with strong motors to make them the best blow dryers for thick hair. Both will only require a cheap power adapter for The Sudan to fit into a Sudanese power outlet, each dryer is lightweight and folds up to pack into carry-on luggage.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best hair dryer to buy for The Sudan?

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 The Sudan 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.

The Sudan power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in The Sudan?

The standard voltage used in The Sudan is 230 volts.

What frequency is used in The Sudan?

The frequency used in a Sudanese power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]

Which plug adapter do you need to bring to use a hair dryer in The Sudan?

Type C and D power outlets

Which plug adapter do you need to bring to use a hair dryer in The Sudan?

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

  • Plug Type C - The plug outlet, technically known as a Europlug, is identified by the 2 holes adjacent to each other where the two plug socket pins sit.
  • Plug Type D - This power socket, also known as a type D power outlet, can be recognised by three holes forming a triangular configuration.

A Type D plug adapter will allow you to use a 230 volt hair dryer in The Sudan - read the simple instructions below for full details of how to use a travel adapter for The Sudan. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to bring a power converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How should you switch the voltage on a dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  1. Most models of dual voltage hair dryers have some type of dial which changes between 2 voltages however some models can automatically detect the voltage from a Sudanese power outlet.
  2. The dial or switch needs a small screwdriver or coin to change the hair dryer to the right voltage between a 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
  3. Also, it is worth noting down both switch positions because the painted numbers can occasionally fade on some models.

How do I use my dual voltage hair dryer in The Sudan?

  1. Ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or it will operate with a 230 volt power outlet.
  2. If the hair dryer supports dual voltage then ensure that it is set to work in the 220-240v range. This is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and requires a coin or screwdriver to turn.
  3. Plug your hair dryer into the power adapter for The Sudan, also plug in the power adapter into the Sudanese power outlet.
  4. It is common on most dual voltage hair dryers operating in the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on their lowest setting, however this speed should still be adequate for drying hair. Always check the manufacturers guidelines to find out if this is relevant for your model of dual voltage dryer to avoid the risk of overheating.
  5. Your hair dryer can now be used with a Sudanese power outlet.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

One method to tell if your hair dryer supports a dual voltage outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the base, handle or plug of your hair dryer. This location will depend on the make and model of your hair dryer and should also be written on the box. Some dual voltage models will change automatically but other hair dryer models will feature a button or switch which allows you to change between different regions.

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

Travelling to The Sudan with a hair dryer

Can I carry on a blow dryer in my luggage?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I carry on a blow dryer in my luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered blow dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also suggests that you should verify that the airline which is flying you to The Sudan 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 for airport security, it can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cables tightly around hair dryers). If you 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 offers the most protection against bumps and knocks during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Do hotel rooms in The Sudan have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in The Sudan have hair dryers?

This will all depend on the individual hotel and the class of the accommodation. Hair dryers in hotel rooms are normally found in the bathroom, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or might be located in the bedroom cupboard, drawer or wardrobe. When staying in cheaper motels, hotels and hostels a shared hair dryer could be offered at the reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer policy you could either telephone the hotel in The Sudan or check on the booking web site to find out what is available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but typically rudimentary models lacking a diffuser, notorious for slower air speeds and low heat. For those worried about hygiene might want to check for burnt hair cuticles from other guests on a shared hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

Remember, if you are in doubt either call ahead to your hotel in The Sudan or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Is it safer to bring a domestic blow dryer or a travel hair dryer to The Sudan?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to bringing your existing domestic hair dryer to The Sudan (typically marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Sudanese power outlet (provided that you bring the correct power adapter for The Sudan). Travel hair dryers normally feature a folding handle and are lighter, this will help in reducing the size and weight when packed in luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer. It is also worth bearing in mind that bringing an expensive domestic hair dryer could put it at risk due to potential loss or damage in transit by a baggage handlers. The costs involved in replacing or repairing an expensive quality domestic blow dryer in The Sudan might outweigh the cost of purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [17] [AD]

Power converters for The Sudan

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

Voltage converter

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

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

Do you need a converter to use a hair dryer in The Sudan?

A suitable voltage transformer (or power converter) allows your hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 230 volt power outlet used in The Sudan. Travellers wishing to use their existing domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, but it can be a lot cheaper to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to purchase a power converter. A power converter is also considerably heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable for travelling compared to a travel hair dryer. [7] [AD]

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

Instructions showing how to use your hair dryer in The Sudan with a two prong Type C power adapter.

  1. Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply - if it doesn't then don't continue as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a travel hair dryer make sure you have set it to the 230 volt setting; please consult the owners manual for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. If the type of power outlet used in The Sudan won't accomodate the plug on your hair dryer you'll need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4]. This Type C plug adapter will adapt plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet used in The Sudan by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Plug in the Type C plug adapter into the Sudanese power outlet. You can recognise this power outlet by two holes next to each other.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Sudanese power outlet.
  6. Your hair dryer can now be used in The Sudan. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in The Sudan using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in The Sudan using a type D power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in The Sudan with a Type D power adapter.

  1. Please ensure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 230 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then do not proceed as you might damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Some travel blow dryers might usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer ensure you have set it to accept 230 volts, consult the instructions for more information on where this switch is.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in The Sudan you will need to use a Type D plug adapter [6]. This Type D plug adapter helps convert different plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet found in The Sudan simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type D plug adapter into the Sudanese power outlet. You can identify the wall supply by the 3 round holes in a triangular pattern for live, neutral and ground pins.
  4. After that plug in the hair dryer into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Sudanese power outlet. The hair dryer can now be used in The Sudan. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in The Sudan using a type D power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - wikipedia.org web page about The Sudan
  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 D power outlet
  6. Type D plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type D electrical adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka..
  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. 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.