Using a hair dryer in Ethiopia
Can I use my hairdryer in Ethiopia?
First check your hair dryer can work in Ethiopia:
- If your hair dryer can run using 220 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can tell) then you will only need to bring an appropriate power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit.
If not then either:
- Use a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] - you could need a suitable power adapter for Ethiopia however these lightweight accessories are designed specifically for the rigors of travel. Before buying read our comprehensive guide to the best travel blow driers which will work in an Ethiopian power outlet, along with the top nine features to consider when buying a travel hair dryer and a comparison of the best dual voltage blow dryers in 2023.
- Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with an 220 volt Ethiopian power outlet, however this is considerably heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but not the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Ethiopia, therefore check that your power converter includes the correct power adapter for Ethiopia otherwise you will also need to purchase another power adapter. Also worth noting that your own domestic hair dryer might not be suited for travel and you could risk potential damage in a suitcase. [10] [AD]
Using a hair dryer in Ethiopia
Will my hair dryer work in Ethiopia?
This will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to handle the 220 volts used in Ethiopia. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can operate using 220 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you can use the hair dryer in Ethiopia. If not then you will need to consider bringing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2], read our section on do you need a voltage converter to use a domestic hair dryer for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [10] [AD]
Best travel hair dryers for Ethiopia
Bundled diffuser and concentrator attachments
How to choose the best hair dryer
When looking for the best travel hair dryer for Ethiopia choose a robust but lightweight dual voltage dryer which will work with an 220 volt Ethiopian power outlet power outlet, includes a long cord, an ALCI safety plug and a folding handle. If drying thick hair look for a stronger 1600+ watt dryer and included diffuser.
What to look for when purchasing a travel blow dryer?
- Safe travel hair dryers will include an ALCI safety plug which minimises the risk of overloading leading to fires - these can be recognised by reset and test switches.
- Curlier or thicker hair could need a blow dryer with a stronger motor, a higher wattage ceramic dryer that includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby preventing damage.
- Buying the cheapest travel hair dryer could be risky - as well as safety issues there is a greater chance that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to cheaper components.
- Depending on the hotel room in Ethiopia there might be a mirror positioned some distance away from a convenient outlet which could make it difficult to style hair, so when buying a hair dryer search for the lengthiest power cord available.
- In order to work in Ethiopia a travel hair dryer needs to be dual voltage.
- Instead of scouring stores to look for expensive 3rd party attachments it might be cheaper and more convenient buying a hair dryer which includes a concentrator and a diffuser as these are designed to fit perfectly.
- The cool shot feature on modern hair dryers can rapidly cool down the hair after drying to hold in the style but this option might be lacking in smaller dryers.
- Ideal hair dryers for styling should let you to control both temperature and speed settings with high and low options; a faster hotter speed can quickly dry thicker wet hair and lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to your hair.
- Look for lighter travel hair dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models with folding handles will mean more space to pack other items.
Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator
Which is a good travel ionic hair dryer with diffuser?
- The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65m power cord, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser but it doesn't have cool shot.
- The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a longer 1.82 metre power cable for greater flexibility when drying with an ALCI safety plug and removable filter for cleaning. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it includes cool shot making it suitable for drying thick hair.
Each ionic travel hair dryer features a diffuser and concentrator attachment with strong motors to make them the most suitable travel blow dryers for thick hair. They will require a suitable power adapter for Ethiopia to fit into an Ethiopian power outlet, they are lightweight and will fold up to pack in a carry-on travel bag. [11] [11] [12] [AD]
Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle
What is the best compact travel hair dryer?
- Using a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features a cool shot setting which can will quickly cool down hair to give a long lasting hold.
- The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, uses a ceramic tourmaline outlet resulting in safer and faster styling, twin heat settings, a longer 1.8m electric power cord and comes with a concentrator.
Both models can fold, have an ALCI safety plug which prevents overloading and support dual voltage making both ideal for travel to Ethiopia in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for an Ethiopian power outlet. [13] [13] [14] [AD]
What is the best blow dryer for thick or curly hair?
Thick hair will take much longer to dry and could be hard to do so without your hair going frizzy, the best option is an ionic blow dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly without frizz. Either an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic are recommended as they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers, avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair. [11] [12] [AD]
BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator
Which is a good mini ionic travel hair dryer with dual voltage for Ethiopia?
- A Conair MiniPRO is the best value small ionic blowdryer available to buy, the ceramic 1200 watt dryer will be suitable for quickly drying thin and fine hair on the go.
- For a blow dryer which is lightweight and small enough to carry in a handbag then a 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that emits infrared heat for a glossy finish this dryer manages to incorporate features typically reserved for bulkier hairdryers.
Both mini hair dryers support dual voltage when used along with the right power adapter for an Ethiopian power outlet they will work in Ethiopia and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried for drying on the go. Both include a concentrator, have 1.5m electric power cords and have a two speed motor. [15] [15] [16] [AD]
Best hair dryers for travel
Which is the best hair dryer for Ethiopia?
| Conair MiniPRO  |
BaByliss PRO  |
Conair Compact  |
Berta Folding  |
X5 Superlite  |
Hot Tools 1044  |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class | Mini | Compact | Compact with diffuser | |||
| Works in Ethiopia | 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.
Ethiopia power outlets and plug sockets
What is the voltage in Ethiopia?
The typical voltage used in Ethiopia is 220 volts.
What frequency is used in Ethiopia?
The frequency found in an Ethiopian power outlet is 50Hz. [17]
Which travel adapter do you need when using a hair dryer in Ethiopia?
There are four different types of power outlets used in Ethiopia, types E, C, F and L with the primary power outlets being type E:
- Plug Type C - The plug outlet can be recognised by the two holes next to each other for live and neutral pins.
- Plug Type E - This circular plug outlet can be recognised by the two large round holes 19mm apart from each other for live and neutral pins and a long metal earth pin protruding from the top forming a triangular shape.
- Plug Type F - This sunken circular wall outlet (also known as a type F power outlet or Schuko plug) can be recognised by two 4.8mm holes 19 mm next to each other where the two pins go and two thin grounding clips above and below.
- Plug Type L - This hexagon shaped power outlet, also known as a type L power outlet, looks like three circular adjecent holes in a line for live, neutral and ground pins. You'll find there are two types of Type L power outlet, one rated at 10 amps and one at 16 amps. The 10 amp version has 4mm thick pins that are spaced 5.5mm apart and the 16 amp version has slightly larger 5mm round pins spaced 8mm apart.
A suitable power adapter to bring when using a 220 volt hair dryer in Ethiopia is a Type E plug adapter; read the step-by-step guide below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Ethiopia. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to use a voltage converter. [6] [18] [AD]
Dual voltage hair dryers
How can I change the voltage on a travel hair dryer?
- Normal dual voltage hair dryers have some type of dial or switch which changes between 2 types of voltages however some hair dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Ethiopia.
- This dial or switch needs either a small screwdriver or coin to change the hair dryer to the correct voltage between the 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
- Also, it is worth making a note of both switch positions because the painted numbers can occasionally fade on certain models of dryer.
Single voltage hair dryer
How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?
A simple way to tell if your hair dryer supports a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or the plug of the hair dryer. This location will depend on the make and model of your hair dryer and could also be written in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair dryers can change automatically, however other hair dryers will feature a switch which allows you to change between different regions depending on which country you are visiting.
- Single voltage could say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Ethiopia then you should be able to use your hair dryer with an Ethiopian 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 220 volts used in an Ethiopian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Ethiopia.
- Dual voltage will say a larger range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Ethiopia or any other country if these numbers are shown.
How do you use a dual voltage hair dryer in Ethiopia?
- First ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it works with a 220 volt power socket.
- If the hair dryer supports dual voltage then make sure that it is set to the 220-240V range. The switch is normally found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to switch.
- Plug your dryer into the power adapter for Ethiopia, then plug in the power adapter into the Ethiopian power outlet.
- It is normal for a majority of dual voltage hair dryer models operating within the 220-240v range to only work safely on a low setting; however this speed should still be adequate for drying hair. Always check the hair dryer guidelines to see if this rule is relevant for your model of hair dryer to prevent overheating.
- Your hair dryer is now ready to operate with an Ethiopian power outlet.
Travelling to Ethiopia with a hair dryer
Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on
Can I carry on a blow dryer?
According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also recommends that you should check that your airline who is flying you to Ethiopia will allow a hair dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing your blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible by airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of power wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cords tightly around electronic items such as blow 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 provides the most protection against knocks and bumps during your journey. [19] [20] [21] [AD]
Hotel hair dryer
Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Ethiopia?
Depending on the hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the room, either packed away in the bedroom cupboard, drawer or wardrobe, found on a bathroom wall unit or could be a slower air hose variety. When staying in cheaper motels, hotels and hostels a communal hair dryer could be available at reception but that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer policy you should either check on the booking web site or telephone your hotel in Ethiopia to find out what type of hairdryer is available to guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are adequate but are typically rudimentary models lacking a diffuser, notorious for low heat and providing slower air speeds. Those concerned with hygiene might want to remove the grime 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 Ethiopia or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. [2] [AD]
Is it safe to bring a domestic hair dryer to Ethiopia?
Bringing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing an existing blow dryer to Ethiopia (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 Ethiopian power outlet (as long as you use the correct plug adapter for Ethiopia). Travel hair dryers normally feature a folding handle and will be lighter which helps reduce the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer. Please note that bringing an expensive domestic hair dryer could place it at risk due to potential damage or loss in your suitcase by an airline baggage handler in Ethiopia. The cost and inconvenience of replacing or repairing an expensive quality domestic blow dryer in Ethiopia could outweigh the costs of buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case . [20] [AD]
Power converters for Ethiopia
Do I need a power converter to use my hair dryer in Ethiopia?
The correct type voltage transformer (or power converter) allows your hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 220 volt power outlet used in Ethiopia. Travellers wishing to bring their existing domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, but it can be a lot less expensive to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it will be to buy a power converter. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be significantly lighter and smaller than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suitable for travelling. [10] [AD]
Voltage converter
What is the difference between a power converter and a power adapter?
A heavy and expensive power converter transforms the voltage of 220 volts from an Ethiopian power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer, however a more lightweight and cheaper power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Ethiopia. [10] [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Ethiopia using a type C power adapter
How to power a hair dryer in Ethiopia with a 2 pin Type C power charger.
- Ensure that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 220 volt power supply but if it doesn't then do not proceed because you could blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Travel hair dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer ensure the switch is set to accept 220 volts to use in Ethiopia, please refer to the owners manual for more information on where this switch is.
- You will need to use a Type C plug adapter [4] if the shape of the power outlet which is used in Ethiopia doesn't take the plug shape on your hair dryer. The plug adapter will help adapt plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet found in Ethiopia simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
- First plug in the Type C plug adapter in the Ethiopian power outlet. You can recognise the wall supply by the 2 circular adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral pins.
- Then plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
- Switch on the Ethiopian power outlet.
- You can now switch on your blow dryer in Ethiopia. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Ethiopia using a type E power adapter
Instructions showing you how to use your hair dryer in Ethiopia with a Type E travel adapter.
- Ensure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power outlet; but if not then do not continue because you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages make sure the switch is set to the 220 volt setting; consult the manufacturers instructions to find out how to do this.
- You will need to bring a Type E plug adapter [6] if the type of power outlet used in Ethiopia isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair dryer. This Type E plug adapter will convert different plugs from other countries into a power outlet found in Ethiopia by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 220 volt outlet.
- Start by plugging the Type E plug adapter in the Ethiopian power outlet. You can recognise this power outlet by two 4.8mm circular adjacent holes next to each other along with one long metal earth pin protruding the top in a triangle pattern.
- Plug in the hair dryer into the Type E plug adapter.
- Turn on the Ethiopian power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be used in Ethiopia. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Ethiopia using a type F power adapter
Instructions on how to use your hair dryer in Ethiopia by using a Type F travel adapter.
- Check that the blow 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 proceed because you could create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Dual voltage hair dryers usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer ensure the switch is set to accept 220 volts to use in Ethiopia; please consult the user guide for more information on how to do this.
- You will need to bring a Type F plug adapter [6] if the shape of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the power outlet used in Ethiopia. The plug adapter will adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet in Ethiopia simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
- Firstly plug in the Type F plug adapter into the Ethiopian power outlet. This circular power supply can be recognised by the two large holes 19 mm apart from each other for live and neutral pins along with two thin grounding clips above and below.
- Plug in your hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
- Turn on the Ethiopian power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be used in Ethiopia. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Ethiopia using a type L power adapter
How to power a hair dryer in Ethiopia with a 3 pinned Type L power charger.
- Please check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 220 volt power supply; if it doesn't then don't proceed as you might damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel hair dryer ensure you have set it to accept 220 volts for use in Ethiopia - please refer to the owners manual for more details on where the switch is.
- If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Ethiopia you will need to buy a Type L plug adapter [9]. The power adapter is designed to fit plugs from other countries for use in an electrical outlet used in Ethiopia simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
- Start the process by taking the Type L plug adapter and inserting it into the power outlet. You can recognise the hexagon shaped plug outlet by three adjecent holes forming a line for live, neutral and ground. Please note there are two types of Type L plug supply rated at 10 amps and 16 amps. The 10 amp version has 4mm thick pins which are spaced 5.5mm apart, and the 16 amp version has slightly larger 5mm round pins spaced 8mm apart.
- Then plug in your hair dryer into the Type L plug adapter.
- Switch on the Ethiopian power outlet.
- You can now switch on your blow dryer in Ethiopia. [AD]
See also
External links
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- Wikipedia - wikipedia page about Ethiopia
- 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..
- iec.ch - Type E power outlet
- Type E plug adapter - A CEE 7/5 socket and CEE 7/6 plug compliant Type E adapter designed with a focus on safety, featuring two round pins and an earthing hole. Ideal for use in the France, Belgium, Poland and several African nations..
- iec.ch - Type F power outlet
- iec.ch - Type L power outlet
- Type L plug adapter - A Type L travel adapter is compatible with Italy's 10A and 16A grounded outlets and can also be used in other countries like Chile and Uruguay which use the Italian standard CEI 23-50..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
- iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
- tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
- Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
- Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
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