How to use your hair dryer in Egypt

Egyptian power outlet

Will my blow dryer work in Egypt?

First check your hair dryer can work in Egypt:

  • If your hair dryer can run on 220 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you will only need to bring a suitable power adapter for Egypt listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit in the outlet.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with an 220 volt Egyptian power outlet, however this is noticeably 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 power outlet used in Egypt, therefore check that the voltage transformer comes with an appropriate power adapter for Egypt otherwise you will also need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Also worth noting that your personal hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you could risk potential damage in your suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 220 volts you run a risk of blowing a fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Before attempting to use your hair dryer in Egypt please check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Egypt

Will my hair dryer work in Egypt?

This will depend on if your hair dryer can operate using the 220 volts which are used in Egypt. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to handle 220 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you should be able to use your hair dryer in Egypt. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2], read the section on will a power converter work with a hair dryer in Egypt for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Egypt

Choosing the best blow dryer

Bundled diffuser and concentrator attachments

Choosing the best blow dryer

When choosing the best travel hair dryer for Egypt look for a robust but light dual-voltage dryer that will operate with an 220 volt Egyptian power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, long power cable and an ALCI safety plug. When drying thick hair look for a stronger 1600+ watt motor and included diffuser.

Things to consider when purchasing a new blow dryer

  1. You shouldn't risk getting the cheapest dryer - as well as issues with safety there is also a greater chance that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to cheaper parts.
  2. Safe travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which reduces the danger of the motor overloading and starting electrical fires - you can idenfity these models with the 2 'reset' and 'test' switches found on the plug.
  3. Curlier or thicker hair could require a hair dryer which has a stronger motor. A high wattage ceramic model which includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster to avoid damage.
  4. Your travel hair dryer has to support dual voltage to operate in Egypt.
  5. Modern travel dryers feature a cool shot option for rapidly cooling hair down after drying to hold in the style but this option lacks in more compact models.
  6. Depending on your accommodation in Egypt you could find they have a wall mirror positioned some distance away from the nearest power outlet which makes it difficult to use the travel dryer, so when buying a hair dryer look for the model with the lengthiest power cord possible.
  7. It could be cheaper and more convenient to buy a new hair dryer that includes a concentrator and diffuser instead of scouring shops to look for more expensive third party attachments.
  8. Try to look for a lighter travel dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers which have folding handles will mean more room.
  9. The best travel hair dryers for styling should give control of both temperature and speed settings with high and low options - faster hotter speeds will dry hair quickly whilst slower speeds with lower temperatures reduce damage to hair.
What is a good dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser attachment?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

What is a good dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser attachment?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65m power cord, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser but doesn't have a cool shot button.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a longer 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 a cool shot option making it perfect for drying thicker hair.

Each ionic hair dryer features a concentrator and diffuser with powerful enough motors to make them the best hair dryers for thick hair. They will require a power adapter for Egypt to work with an Egyptian power outlet, they are lightweight and will fold up to fit into a carry-on bag.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good compact travel hair dryer for Egypt?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle

Which is a good compact travel hair dryer for Egypt?

  • With a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler includes cool shot that can will quickly cool hair down to give a longer lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot button, a tourmaline ceramic outlet meaning faster and safer styling, two heat options, a longer 1.8 metre power cord and includes a concentrator.

Each model is folding, includes an ALCI power plug to prevent overloading and has dual voltage making them ideal for travel to Egypt in carry on luggage when used along with a power adapter for an Egyptian power outlet.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Which is a good blow dryer for thick or 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 is an ionic dryer and for curly thick hair we suggest a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Both the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are recommended because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [8] [9] [AD]

Which is the best small ionic dual voltage hair dryer for Egypt?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator

Which is the best small ionic dual voltage hair dryer for Egypt?

  • A Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable mini ionic hair dryer available to buy, this 1200 watt ceramic dryer will be suitable for quickly drying fine and thin hair whilst on the go.
  • The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is small enough to transport in a handbag because of the 10.5oz body with 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 use which results in a glossy finish.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used with a suitable power adapter for an Egyptian power outlet they will work in Egypt and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried around all day for drying on the go. They have a 1.5m electric power cable, a twin speed motor and include a concentrator.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best travel hair dryer to buy for Egypt?

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 Egypt 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.

Egypt power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Egypt?

Power outlets in Egypt are 220 volts.

What electrical frequency is used in Egypt?

The frequency found in an Egyptian power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]

Which power adapter do you need to use a hair dryer in Egypt?

Type C and F power outlets

Which power adapter do you need to use a hair dryer in Egypt?

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

  • Plug Type C - You can identify this wall outlet by two circular holes adjacent to each other.
  • Plug Type F - You can recognise the power outlet by two adjacent holes next to each other, plus a pair of two thin metal grounding clips on the top and bottom.

A Type F power adapter is suitable for powering a 220 volt hair dryer in Egypt, read the step-by-step instructions below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Egypt. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to see if you need to bring a voltage converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

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 dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, handle or base of your hair dryer. This location might depend on the make or model of your hair dryer and could also state on the box. Some dual voltage hair dryers will change automatically but other hair dryers will feature a switch which allows you to operate between different regions depending on which country you are visiting.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Egypt then you should be able to use your hair dryer with an Egyptian 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 220 volts used in an Egyptian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Egypt.
  • A larger range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Egypt or any other country.

How do I switch a dual voltage hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have some type of switch which changes between 2 voltages however some hair dryers can automatically detect the voltage used in Egypt.
  2. The switch or dial normally requires a screwdriver or coin to change the dryer to the right voltage between the 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
  3. Also, it's worth making a note of the two switch positions because the painted numbers can occasionally rub off on some models.

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

  1. Ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or that it works with a 220 volt power outlet.
  2. If your hair dryer is dual voltage then make sure it is set to work in the 220-240V range. The switch is usually found on the handle or base of the hair dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to turn.
  3. Plug the dryer into the power adapter for Egypt, then plug in the power adapter into the Egyptian power outlet.
  4. It's common on a majority of travel hair dryer models operating in the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on a low setting, however the temperature and speed should still be sufficient enough for drying hair. Check 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 dryer is now ready to operate in Egypt.

Travelling to Egypt with a hair dryer

Can a blow dryer go in carry on to Egypt?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can a blow dryer go in carry on to Egypt?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA suggests that you should verify that the airline who is flying you to Egypt will allow hair 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 and will avoid a tangle of power cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cords tightly around hair dryers). If you do 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 offers the most protection against bumps and knocks during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Egypt?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Egypt?

Depending on the hotel and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the hotel room, either packed away in the bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard, found in the bathroom or could be a slower air hose type.

In cheaper hotels, hostels and motels a shared hair dryer could be offered at reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer policy then either check on the booking web site or telephone the hotel in Egypt to find out what is available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but normally rudimentary models lacking a diffuser and notorious for providing slower air speeds and low heat. Those worried about hygiene should remove burnt hair from previous guests on a shared 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 Egypt or use a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Should you bring a travel hair dryer or domestic blow dryer to Egypt?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer instead of bringing an existing domestic blow dryer to Egypt (typically marked with 'For domestic use only') as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with an Egyptian power outlet (provided that you bring the correct plug adapter for Egypt). Travel hair dryers normally feature a collapsible handle and will be much lighter, this helps reduce the size and weight in luggage compared to packing a domestic blow dryer. Please note that packing your expensive domestic hair dryer might place it at risk because of potential loss or damage in your suitcase by airport baggage handlers in Egypt. The cost and inconvenience involved in replacing an expensive specialised blow dryer in Egypt could overshadow the cost of buying a much cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [17] [AD]

Power converters for Egypt

Do I need a voltage converter for Egypt to use my hair dryer?

A suitable power converter (or voltage transformer) allows your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 220 volt power outlet used in Egypt. Travellers wishing to bring along their own domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, 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 travelling. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

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 Egypt, but a more expensive and heavier power converter will convert a 220 volt Egyptian power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

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

Instructions showing how to power a hair dryer in Egypt with a Type C travel adapter.

  1. Make sure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 220 volt power outlet; if it doesn't then do not continue as you might blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Travel hair dryers usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer make sure you have set it to accept 220 volts to use in Egypt; refer to the user guide to find out how to do this.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet used in Egypt you will need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4]. The power adapter will convert plugs on appliances from other countries for a power outlet used in Egypt simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Begin by taking the Type C plug adapter and plugging it into the wall outlet. You can recognise the plug outlet by the 2 adjacent holes next to each other.
  4. Then plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Egyptian power outlet. The hair dryer can now be switched on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Egypt using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Egypt using a type F power adapter

Instructions showing you how to use your hair dryer in Egypt with a two pin Type F travel adapter.

  1. Ensure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 220 volt power outlet; 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 220 volts for use in Egypt; refer to the owners manual to find out where the switch is found.
  2. If the type of power outlet which is used in Egypt isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair dryer you will need to bring a Type F plug adapter [6]. This power adapter will convert plugs from other countries for a power outlet found in Egypt 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 supply.
  3. Insert the Type F plug adapter in the wall outlet. This sunken circular plug outlet (called the Schuko plug) can be identified by two large circular holes 19 mm next to each other along with grounding clips above and below.
  4. Next plug in the hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Egyptian power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on your hair dryer to use in Egypt. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Egypt using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Egyptian entry on Wikipedia
  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 F power outlet
  6. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  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. 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..
  9. 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..
  10. 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..
  11. 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..
  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.