Which power adapter will you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Zambia?

Zambian power outlet

Can I use my blowdryer in Zambia?

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

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

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Zambian power outlet, however this is considerably bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter will change the voltage but not the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of power outlet used in Zambia, therefore check that the voltage transformer includes the correct power adapter for Zambia otherwise you will still need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Please be aware that your own existing hair dryer might not be suited for travel and you risk damage in a suitcase. [9] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle the 230 volts used in Zambia you run the potential risk of a blown fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Prior to using your hair dryer in Zambia read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Zambia

Will my hair dryer work in Zambia?

That depends on if your hair dryer is designed to handle the 230 volt power outlets in Zambia:

Best travel hair dryers for Zambia

How to choose the best travel hair dryer

Multiple speed options on a travel hair dryer

How to choose the best travel hair dryer

When looking for the best travel hair dryer choose a sturdy but light dual-voltage dryer that will operate with a 230 volt Zambian power outlet power outlet, has an ALCI safety plug, a folding handle and long cord. If drying thicker hair buy a dryer with a higher 1600+ watt dryer and included diffuser.

What should you look for when buying a blow dryer?

  1. Try to look for a lightweight travel dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models with a handle which folds mean more room to pack other items.
  2. A modern blow dryer might include a cool shot option for quickly cooling down the hair after drying to hold a style but this option lacks in smaller or cheaper models.
  3. A hair dryer needs to be dual voltage to operate in Zambia.
  4. The best travel hair dryers give control of both temperature and speed with high and low options - a slower speed with a lower temperature will prevent damage to your hair and a faster hotter speed will dry hair quickly.
  5. You shouldn't risk getting the cheapest dryer - as well as safety concerns there is also a greater chance that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to cheaper components.
  6. Instead of scouring shops to look for more expensive third party attachments it might be more convenient and cheaper purchasing a hair dryer which is supplied with both a diffuser and a concentrator.
  7. Safe travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which minimises the danger of overloading the motor and starting an electrical fire, these can be recognised by the two 'reset' and 'test' buttons.
  8. Hotel rooms could have a fixed mirror positioned away from a outlet making it cumbersome to dry hair, therefore when buying a travel hair dryer look for the model with the lengthiest power cord possible or bring either a pocket mirror or extension cord.
  9. If you have thicker hair then you might require a travel blow dryer with a more powerful motor; a high wattage ceramic dryer that has a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby preventing damage.
Which is the best folding travel ionic hair dryer with a diffuser for Zambia?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer

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

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65 metre power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however is missing a cool shot button.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a generous 1.82 metre power cord for greater flexibility when styling with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter for easy cleaning. It utilises a powerful 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it suitable for drying thicker hair.

Both ionic travel hair dryers include both concentrator and diffuser with strong motors to make them the most suitable blow dryers for thick hair. They will require a power adapter for Zambia to plug into a Zambian power outlet, they are lightweight and fold up to fit into carry-on baggage.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Which is the best mini ionic dual voltage travel hair dryer for Zambia?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator and folding handle

Which is the best mini ionic dual voltage travel hair dryer for Zambia?

  • A Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable mini ionic blowdryer available on the market, this 1200 watt ceramic dryer will be most suited for quickly drying thin or fine hair on the go.
  • For a folding blow dryer which is both small and lightweight enough to carry in a purse then the 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that emits infrared heat for a shinier finish this dryer manages to incorporate features which are normally found with larger models.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used along with the right plug adapter for a Zambian power outlet they should work in Zambia and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried around all day for styling on the go. They have a 1.5m electric power cable, have a 2 speed motor and include a concentrator.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Which is a good hair dryer for thick curly hair?

Thick hair takes longer to dry and might be hard to do so without your hair turning frizzy. The best option for thicker hair will be an ionic blow dryer and for curly thick hair we suggest a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly. Either an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic will be suitable because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers, avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [10] [11] [AD]

Which is the best folding dual voltage hair dryer for Zambia?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with bundled concentrator

Which is the best folding dual voltage hair dryer for Zambia?

  • With a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler includes cool shot that can will quickly cool hair down.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot button, uses a ceramic tourmaline air outlet for negative ions meaning safer drying, twin heat settings, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cable and also comes with a concentrator attachment.

Both models fold, have an ALCI plug to prevent overloading and has dual voltage making them perfect for visiting Zambia in carry on luggage when used along with a power adapter for a Zambian power outlet.  [14] [14] [15] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best blow dryer for Zambia?

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 Zambia 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.

Zambia power outlets and plug sockets

What is the electrical frequency used in Zambia?

The frequency of the alternating current found in a Zambian power outlet is 50Hz. [16]

What voltage is used in Zambia?

Power outlets in Zambia are 230 volts.

Which plug adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Zambia?

Type C, D and G power outlets

Which plug adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Zambia?

There are three different types of power outlets used in Zambia, these are type G, C and D with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type C - You can recognise the power outlet by 2 adjacent holes next to each other.
  • Plug Type D - You can recognise this wall outlet by 3 circular holes in a triangular pattern for live, neutral and earth pins.
  • Plug Type G - The power outlet (called a type G power outlet) can be identified by 3 slots containing shutters in a triangular pattern for live, neutral and earth pins.

A suitable plug adapter to bring to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Zambia is a Type G power adapter - read the simple instructions below for full details of using a hair dryer in Zambia. Please note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also need to bring a voltage converter.  [8] [17] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

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 a dual voltage outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the base, handle or plug of your hair dryer. This location might depend on the make and model of your hair dryer and could also state in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models can change automatically but other hair dryers will feature a button which allows you to toggle between different regions.

  • Single voltage could say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Zambia then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Zambian power outlet.
  • Single voltage could also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 230 volts used in a Zambian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Zambia.
  • Dual voltage will typically say a large voltage range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Zambia or any other country if these numbers are shown.

How can I use my dual voltage hair dryer in Zambia?

  1. Ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer and it will operate with a 230 volt power outlet.
  2. If your hair dryer supports dual voltage please ensure that it is set to the 220-240 volt range. This is normally found on the base or handle of the blow dryer and requires a coin or screwdriver to switch.
  3. Plug your hair dryer into the correct power adapter for Zambia, then plug in the power adapter into the Zambian power outlet.
  4. It is normal for most dual voltage hair dryer models operating in the 220-240V range to only work safely on their lowest speed setting; however the temperature and speed should still be sufficient for drying hair. We recommend checking the manufacturers guidelines to see if this is relevant for your model of dual voltage hair dryer to prevent the risk of overheating.
  5. The hair dryer is now ready to be used in Zambia.

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

  1. Most models of dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which selects between 2 types of voltages although some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Zambia.
  2. The dial or switch needs a screwdriver or coin to change the hair dryer to the correct voltage between the 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
  3. Also, it's worth jotting down both switch positions as the painted numbers can occasionally rub off on certain models.

Travelling to Zambia with a hair dryer

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

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to packing your existing domestic hair dryer to Zambia as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Zambian power outlet (as long as you use the correct power adapter for Zambia). Certain models of travel hair dryer will typically feature a folding handle and will be lighter which will help in reducing the size and weight in luggage compared to packing a domestic blow dryer.

It is also worth concidering that packing your expensive domestic hair dryer might place it at risk because of potential loss or damage in your suitcase by an airport baggage handler in Zambia. The cost and inconvenience involved in repairing an expensive quality domestic hair dryer in Zambia could be more than purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case beforehand .  [18] [AD]

Do hotel rooms in Zambia have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Zambia have hair dryers?

Depending on the hotel and class of the accommodation a hair dryer might be available in the room, either packed in the bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard, found attached to a bathroom wall unit or could potentially be of a slower air hose type. If staying in budget motels, hotels and hostels a communal hair dryer could be available at the reception but that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer availability you should either look on the booking web site or telephone the hotel in Zambia to find out what is available for guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are adequate but normally rudimentary models lacking a diffuser and notorious for providing slower air speeds and low heat. For those concerned with hygiene might want to remove grime from other guests on a communal hair dryer as room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

Remember, if in doubt either call ahead to your hotel in Zambia or use a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Is a hair dryer allowed onboard a flight in Zambia?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Is a hair dryer allowed onboard a flight in Zambia?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA also recommends that you should verify that the airline that is taking you to Zambia will allow hair 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 for airport security, it can be packed away quickly and will avoid a tangle of power cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cords tightly around electronic items such as 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 drops and knocks during your journey.   [18] [19] [20] [AD]

Power converters for Zambia

Do I need a power converter for Zambia to use my hair dryer?

A suitable power converter (or voltage transformer) allows your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 230 volt power outlet used in Zambia. A power converter is more suited for travellers who want to use their own domestic hair dryer, but it can be more costly to buy a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also worth noting, a power converter is significantly heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suited for packing in luggage compared to a travel hair dryer. [9] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A lightweight, cheap and small power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Zambia, but a more expensive and heavier power converter will convert the voltage of 230 volts from a Zambian power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer. [9] [AD]

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

Instructions showing how to power a hair dryer in Zambia by using a Type C power charger.

  1. Ensure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet; if it doesn't then do not continue as you could create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Before using a travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting - please consult the owners manual for more information on where this switch is located.
  2. If the type of power outlet which is used in Zambia isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair dryer you will need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4]. The Type C plug adapter is designed to adapt different plugs from other countries for use with an electrical outlet in Zambia by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Start the process by taking the Type C plug adapter and plugging it in the power outlet. This wall supply (sometimes known as the Europlug) is identified by two circular holes adjacent to each other where the live and neutral plug outlet pins slide into.
  4. Next plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Zambian power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be used in Zambia. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Zambia using a type C power adapter

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

How to use your hair dryer in Zambia using a 3 pinned Type D travel charger.

  1. Check that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 230 volt power supply - but if it doesn't then do not attempt these instructions because you may damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage blow dryers usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer make sure you have set it to accept 230 volts, please refer to the instructions for more details on how to do this.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet which is used in Zambia you'll need to use a Type D plug adapter [6]. The plug adapter helps convert plugs on appliances from other countries for use with an electrical outlet found in Zambia simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Plug in the Type D plug adapter in the wall outlet. This power outlet (technically known as the Type D power outlet [5]) looks like three round holes forming a triangular shape.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Zambian power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on your hair dryer to use in Zambia. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Zambia using a type D power adapter

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

How to use your hair dryer in Zambia with a three pin Type G travel adapter.

  1. Please make sure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 230 volt power outlet but if not then don't attempt these instructions because you might 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 ensure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting for use in Zambia; refer to the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. You'll need to use a Type G plug adapter [8] if the shape of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the plug outlet used in Zambia. This power adapter helps fit different plugs from other countries for a power outlet found in Zambia 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. Begin by taking the Type G plug adapter and plugging it into the Zambian power outlet. You can recognise the plug outlet by the 3 slots containing shutters forming a triangular pattern for live, neutral and earth pins.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Zambian power outlet. You can now switch on your hair dryer to use in Zambia. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Zambia using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - wikipedia entry about Zambia
  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. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  8. 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..
  9. 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..
  10. 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..
  11. 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..
  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. 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..
  15. 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..
  16. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  17. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  18. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  19. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  20. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.