How do I use my hair dryer in Angola?
Will my hair dryer work in Angola?
Check your hair dryer can work in Angola:
- If your hair dryer can run on 220 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you'll only need to bring a suitable power adapter listed below if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit.
If not then either:
- Use a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] - you might still need to use the right power adapter for Angola however these lightweight accessories are designed specifically for travelling. Before purchasing see the recommendations for the best blow driers which work work in Angola, along with nine tips for buying a new travel hair dryer and a comparison table of the best blow dryers.
- Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with an 220 volt Angolan power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but not the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of wall outlet used in Angola, therefore check that the voltage transformer comes with a suitable power adapter for Angola otherwise you will also need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Note - your own domestic hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you could risk damage in your luggage. [5] [AD]
Using a hair dryer in Angola
Will my hair dryer work in Angola?
This will depend on if your hair dryer can operate using the 220 volts which are used in Angola. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to operate using 220 volts and you have the correct plug adapter then you can use the hair dryer in Angola. If not then you will need to consider using either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter. Read our section on can you use a power converter to use your hair dryer in Angola for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [5] [AD]
Best travel hair dryers for Angola
Bundled diffuser and concentrator attachments
Choosing the best hair dryer
When looking for the best travel hair dryer choose a sturdy but light dual voltage model which will work with an 220 volt Angolan power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, long cord and a safety plug. When drying thick hair look for a dryer with a higher 1600+ watt dryer and included diffuser.
9 things to consider when buying a blow dryer
- Look for lighter travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers which have a folding handle mean more space.
- The cool shot option can quickly cool hair down after drying which will hold in the style but this option lacks in more compact dryers.
- To operate in Angola a travel hair dryer has to support dual voltage.
- The best travel hair dryers for styling give control of the speed and temperature settings with low and high options, a hotter faster speed can quickly dry hair and a slower speed with a lower temperature can prevent damage to your hair.
- Buying the cheapest dryer available could be risky, as well as concerns with safety there is a greater risk that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to a flimsy construction.
- It could be cheaper and more convenient to buy a new dryer that includes a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer rather than scouring shops to look for expensive 3rd party attachments to fit the barrel size perfectly.
- Some hotel rooms in Angola might have a fixed mirror positioned away from a outlet making it cumbersome to style hair, therefore search for a unit with the longest power cord available or pack either a hand mirror or extension cord.
- Safe travel hair dryers will include an ALCI safety plug which reduces the risk of the motor overloading leading to a fire, these can be recognised by the 2 reset and test buttons.
- Curlier or thicker hair might need a hair dryer which has a more powerful motor - a higher wattage ceramic model which has a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby preventing damage.
Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle
What is a good dual voltage hair dryer with a diffuser attachment?
- A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65 metre power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however is missing cool shot.
- The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a lengthy 1.82m electric power cable for more freedom when styling with an ALCI power plug and removable filter for cleaning. It also has a powerful 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it ideal for drying thicker hair.
Each ionic hair dryer features a concentrator and diffuser attachment with powerful motors to make them the most suitable hair dryers for thick hair. They will only require a suitable power adapter for Angola to plug into an Angolan power outlet, they are lightweight and fold up to fit into a carry-on bag. [6] [6] [7] [AD]
BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium
Which is the best small dual voltage hair dryer for Angola?
- For drying fine and thin hair on the go the 1200 watt ceramic Conair MiniPRO is the best value small ionic blowdryer available on the market.
- A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is both small and lightweight enough to carry in a purse because of the 10.5oz body and folding handle that also includes features found on larger blow dryers including a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect from heat damage during styling resulting in a glossy finish.
Both of these mini hair dryers support dual voltage and when used along with a suitable power adapter for an Angolan power outlet they will work in Angola folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried around all day for drying on the go. They include a concentrator attachment, have 1.5m electric power cords and a twin speed motor. [8] [8] [9] [AD]
Which is a good blow dryer for thick and curly hair?
Thick hair takes longer to dry and can be difficult to do so without your hair turning frizzy, the best option is an ionic blow dryer, if the hair is curly use a diffuser as both are suitable to dry and manage hair smoothly. Either an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic 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 this won't be strong enough. [6] [7] [AD]
Berta Folding Hair Dryer
Which is a good folding travel hair dryer for Angola?
- A Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and features cool shot which can be used to rapidly cool down hair.
- The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has a cool shot setting, uses a ceramic tourmaline air outlet for negative ions meaning safer styling, two heat options, a longer 1.8m electric power cord and includes a concentrator.
Each model folds, includes an ALCI power plug to prevent overloading and has dual voltage making them perfect for visiting Angola in carry on luggage when used along with a power adapter for an Angolan power outlet. [10] [10] [11] [AD]
Best hair dryers for travel
What is the best travel hair dryer for Angola?
| Conair MiniPRO  |
BaByliss PRO  |
Conair Compact  |
Berta Folding  |
X5 Superlite  |
Hot Tools 1044  |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class | Mini | Compact | Compact with diffuser | |||
| Works in Angola | 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.
Angola power outlets and plug sockets
What is the electrical frequency used in Angola?
The frequency from an Angolan power outlet is 50Hz. [12]
What is the mains voltage in Angola?
Power outlets in Angola are 220 volts.
Type C power outlet
Which power adapter will you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Angola?
Type C power outlets are used in Angola. You can recognise the power outlet by 2 round holes adjacent to each other. A Type C power adapter is suitable for powering a 220 volt hair dryer in Angola, read the simple guide below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Angola using a plug adapter. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also need to bring a voltage converter. [4] [13] [AD]
Dual voltage hair dryers
How can I use a dual voltage hair dryer in Angola?
- Check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or that it operates with a 220 volt power socket.
- If the dryer is dual voltage then ensure that it is switched to operate within the 220-240V range. This is normally found on the base or handle of the blow dryer and requires a coin or screwdriver to switch.
- Plug your hair dryer into the power adapter for Angola and also plug in the power adapter into the Angolan power outlet.
- It is common on a majority of travel hair dryers operating within the 220-240V range to only work safely on a low setting - but the temperature and speed should still be sufficient 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 avoid overheating.
- Your dryer can now be operated with an Angolan power outlet.
Single voltage hair dryer
How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?
A simple method to tell if your hair dryer supports a dual voltage outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or plug. The location will vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer, it should also be written in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models might change automatically, however other hair dryers will feature a button which allows you to toggle between different regions.
- Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Angola then you should be able to use your hair dryer with an Angolan 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 220 volts used in an Angolan power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Angola.
- Dual voltage will say a large range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Angola or any other country if these numbers are shown.
How do I switch a travel hair dryer?
- Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which selects between 2 ranges of voltages although some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Angola.
- This dial or switch requires either a small coin or screwdriver to set the dryer to the right voltage between a 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
- Also, it's worth jotting down the two switch positions because the painted numbers can occasionally rub off on some models.
Travelling to Angola with a hair dryer
Is it better to bring a travel hair dryer or domestic blow dryer to Angola?
Packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing an existing blow dryer to Angola as it ensures that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with an Angolan power outlet (as long as you use the correct power adapter for Angola). 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 packing a domestic blow dryer. Please be aware that packing your expensive domestic hair dryer might place it at risk because of potential loss or damage in your suitcase by airline baggage handlers in Angola. The cost of replacing or repairing an expensive specialised hair dryer in Angola might be higher than purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case beforehand . [14] [AD]
Hotel hair dryer
Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Angola?
Depending on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the room, either packed in a bedroom cupboard, drawer or wardrobe, found attached to a bathroom wall unit or could potentially be of a slower air hose type. If staying in budget hotels, motels and hostels a shared hair dryer could be available at reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer policy then either check on the booking web site or telephone the hotel in Angola to find out if a suitable hairdryer available to guests. Hair dryers in hotels are adequate but are typically basic models with no diffuser, notorious for low heat and slow air speeds. For those concerned with hygiene might want to check for the grime from other guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.
Remember, if you are in doubt either telephone ahead to the hotel in Angola or use a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. [2] [AD]
Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on
Can you carry on a blow dryer?
According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA suggests that you should check that the airline who is flying you to Angola will allow blow dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing the hair dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible for airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cables tightly around electronic items). If you do intend to bring fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against knocks and drops during transit. [14] [15] [16] [AD]
Power converters for Angola
Voltage converter
What is the difference between a power converter and a plug adapter for Angola?
A lightweight, cheap and small power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet found in Angola, but a heavier and more expensive power converter transforms a 220 volt Angolan power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer. [5] [AD]
Do I need a converter to use a hair dryer in Angola?
A suitable voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 220 volt power outlet used in Angola. A power converter is more suited for travellers wishing to bring along their own domestic hair dryer, however it could be considerably cheaper to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it will be to buy a power converter. A power converter is considerably heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable when packing compared to a travel hair dryer. [5] [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Angola using a type C power adapter
Instructions showing how to power a hair dryer in Angola by using a Type C travel adapter.
- Check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power supply but if not then don't proceed because you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages make sure you have set it to accept 220 volts to use in Angola; refer to the user guide to find out where the switch is found.
- If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet used in Angola you'll need to use a Type C plug adapter [4]. The plug adapter will convert plugs from other countries for a power outlet found in Angola by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 220 volt outlet.
- Start the process by inserting the Type C plug adapter in the Angolan power outlet. You can recognise the plug supply by 2 round holes adjacent to each other.
- Plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
- Switch on the Angolan power outlet. You can now turn on the blow dryer in Angola. [AD]
See also
External links
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- Wikipedia - wikipedia.org entry about Angola
- Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
- iec.ch - Type C power outlet
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
- iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
- Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
- tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
- Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
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