Using your hair dryer in Kuwait
Will my hairdryer work in Kuwait?
Check that your hair dryer can work in Kuwait:
- If your hair dryer can run using 240 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you'll only need to use an appropriate power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit in the outlet.
If not then either:
- Use a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] - you may still need an appropriate power adapter for Kuwait however these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for travel. Before buying see our comprehensive recommendations for the best dual voltage blow driers guaranteed to work with a Kuwaiti power outlet, along with nine things to look for when buying a new hair dryer and a comparison of six of the best hair dryers in 2023.
- Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 240 volt Kuwaiti power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter changes the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Kuwait, therefore please check that the power converter includes a suitable power adapter for Kuwait otherwise you will need to purchase another power adapter. Also worth noting that your own personal hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you could risk damage in your luggage. [7] [AD]
Using a hair dryer in Kuwait
Will my hair dryer work in Kuwait?
That will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 240 volts which are used in Kuwait. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to operate using 240 volts and you have the appropriate plug adapter then you should be able to use the hair dryer in Kuwait. If not then you will need to consider using either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Read the section on can you use a voltage converter to use a domestic hair dryer in Kuwait for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]
Best travel hair dryers for Kuwait
Dual voltage switch on a travel hair dryer
Choosing the best travel blow dryer
When looking for the best hair dryer for Kuwait choose a strong but light dual voltage dryer which operates with a 240 volt Kuwaiti power outlet power outlet with a long cable, a safety plug and a folding handle. For drying thicker hair look for a model which includes a bundled diffuser that has a higher 1600+ watt dryer.
Nine tips for purchasing a travel blow dryer
- Buying the cheapest travel dryer on the market is risky - as well as concerns with safety there is a greater chance that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to a poor construction.
- In order to work with a 240 volt Kuwaiti power outlet a travel hair dryer needs to support dual voltage.
- The 'cool shot' option will quickly cool down the hair after drying which will hold the style but this option might be lacking in more compact models.
- The safest travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will reduce the danger of the motor overloading leading to starting a fire; these are identified with the 2 'reset' and 'test' buttons.
- Thicker or curlier hair may require a blow dryer which has a more powerful motor, a higher wattage ceramic dryer which has a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby avoiding damage.
- Try looking for a lightweight travel dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models which have a folding handle will mean more space.
- Depending on the hotel room in Kuwait there could be a wall mirror installed away from a convenient power outlet making it hard to use the hair dryer, therefore look for the longest power cord possible.
- It might be cheaper to purchase a new dryer which includes both a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer instead of scouring shops looking for more expensive 3rd party attachments.
- Ideal travel hair dryers will give control of the temperature and speed settings with two options - lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to hair whilst a faster hotter speed can dry wet hair quickly.
Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator
What is the best folding dual voltage travel hair dryer with a diffuser attachment for Kuwait?
- A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65 metre electric power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however lacks cool shot.
- A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a long 1.82 metre electric power cord for more flexibility when drying with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter to clean easily. It also utilises a strong 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it perfect for styling thicker hair.
Each ionic hair dryer includes a diffuser and concentrator with strong enough motors to make them the most suitable blow dryers for thick hair. They only require a plug adapter for Kuwait to plug into a Kuwaiti power outlet, each dryer is lightweight and folds up to fit in carry-on baggage. [8] [8] [9] [AD]
BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle
What is the best mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage for Kuwait?
- The Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable small ionic blow dryer available on the market, this ceramic 1200 watt dryer will be suited for quickly drying fine or thin hair whilst on the go.
- A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is both lightweight and small enough to transport in a purse because of it's 10.5oz body with folding handle and also has features reserved for larger hair dryers including a removable filter and a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage resulting in a shinier finish.
Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used along with a suitable plug adapter for a Kuwaiti power outlet they will work in Kuwait and fold conveniently enough to be carried for drying on the go. They include a concentrator, have 1.5m power cables and a two speed motor. [10] [10] [11] [AD]
What is a good hair dryer for thick hair?
Thick hair can take longer to dry and will be hard to do so without hair turning frizzy, so the best option will be an ionic dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are suitable because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair. [8] [9] [AD]
Berta Folding Hair Dryer with attached concentrator
What is a good dual voltage travel hair dryer?
- With a strong twin speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features cool shot which can will rapidly cool hair down to give a long lasting hold.
- The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, uses a tourmaline ceramic air outlet resulting in faster styling, 2 heat options, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cord and also includes a concentrator attachment.
Each model is folding, has an ALCI power plug which prevents overloading and support dual voltage making them perfect for travel to Kuwait in carry on luggage when used with a power adapter for a Kuwaiti power outlet. [12] [12] [13] [AD]
Best hair dryers for travel
Which is the best travel blow dryer to buy for Kuwait?
| Conair MiniPRO  |
BaByliss PRO  |
Conair Compact  |
Berta Folding  |
X5 Superlite  |
Hot Tools 1044  |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class | Mini | Compact | Compact with diffuser | |||
| Works in Kuwait | 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.
Kuwait power outlets and plug sockets
What mains voltage is used in Kuwait?
Power outlets in Kuwait are 240 volts.
What is the electrical frequency used in Kuwait?
The frequency of the current from a Kuwaiti power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]
Type C and G power outlets
Which travel adapter do you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Kuwait?
There are two types of power outlets used in Kuwait, these are type G and C with the primary power outlets being type G:
- Plug Type C - The wall socket is identified by the 2 circular adjacent holes where the plug socket pins slide into.
- Plug Type G - You can recognise this power outlet by the three rectangular slots with plastic shutters in a triangular configuration for live, neutral and earth.
A suitable travel adapter to bring to use a 240 volt hair dryer in Kuwait is a Type G plug adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of how to use a travel adapter for Kuwait. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to check if you have to bring a power converter. [6] [15] [AD]
Dual voltage hair dryers
Dual voltage hair dryer
How can you tell if your hair dryer is dual voltage?
One method to tell if your hair dryer can accept a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or the handle of your hair dryer. The location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer and should also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models will change automatically, however other hair dryers will have a button or switch which allows you to change between different voltage ranges depending on which country you are in.
- Single voltage could say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 240 volts used in Kuwait then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Kuwaiti 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 240 volts used in a Kuwaiti power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Kuwait.
- Dual voltage will say a larger voltage range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Kuwait or any other country if these numbers are shown.
How should you change the voltage on a travel hair dryer?
- Most models of dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which changes between two types of voltages however some brands can automatically detect the voltage used in Kuwait.
- This switch or dial needs either a coin or screwdriver to change the hair dryer to the right voltage between the 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
- In addition to switching this it's worth noting down both switch positions because the painted numbers can sometimes rub off on some models of travel dryer.
How do you use your dual voltage hair dryer in Kuwait?
- Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it will work with a 240 volt power outlet.
- If the hair dryer is dual voltage please make sure that it is set to operate within the 220-240 volt range. The switch is normally found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to switch.
- Plug the hair dryer into the correct power adapter for Kuwait and then plug in the power adapter into the Kuwaiti power outlet.
- It is common on most travel hair dryer models operating within the 220-240V range to only work safely on their lowest setting; but the temperature should still be adequate enough for drying hair. We recommend checking the hair dryer guidelines to find out if this is applicable for your model of hair dryer to stop the risk of overheating.
- Your hair dryer is now ready to be used with a Kuwaiti power outlet.
Travelling to Kuwait with a hair dryer
Folding travel hair dryer
Can you carry on a hair dryer in your luggage?
According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA recommends that you should check that the airline that is flying you to Kuwait will allow blow dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft. Packing your hair dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible by airport security, it can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping wires tightly around electronic items such as blow dryers). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against drops and knocks during transit. [16] [17] [18] [AD]
Is it safe to bring my domestic hair dryer to Kuwait?
It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer rather than packing an existing domestic hair dryer to Kuwait as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 240 volt power outlets used with a Kuwaiti power outlet (as long as you bring the correct power adapter for Kuwait). A travel hair dryer will typically feature a collapsible handle and will be lighter, this will help reduce the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer. Note that packing an expensive domestic hair dryer could put it at risk because of potential damage or loss in transit by an airline baggage handler in Kuwait. The inconvenience and costs involved in replacing or repairing an expensive quality hair dryer in Kuwait could be higher than buying a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case beforehand to bring along . [17] [AD]
Hotel hair dryer
Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Kuwait?
Depending on the individual hotel and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the room, either packed away in a bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard, found in the bathroom or could potentially be a slower air hose variety.
If staying in cheaper motels, hostels and hotels a shared hair dryer might be available at reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer policy then either telephone your hotel in Kuwait or look on the hotel web site to find out what is available to guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are usable but typically rudimentary models with no diffuser and notorious for providing slow air speeds and low heat. Those concerned with hygiene should check for grime from previous guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.
Remember, if in doubt either telephone ahead to your hotel in Kuwait or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. [2] [AD]
Power converters for Kuwait
Can you use your hair dryer with a converter for Kuwait?
A voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 240 volt power outlet used in Kuwait. Travellers wishing to bring their own hair dryer can use a power converter, but it could be more expensive to buy a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also, a power converter is noticeably bulkier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable for packing. [7] [AD]
Voltage converter
What is the difference between a voltage converter and a power adapter?
A heavy and bulky power converter will convert a 240 volt Kuwaiti power outlet to work with a non-240 volt hair dryer, but a more lightweight and cheaper power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Kuwait. [7] [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Kuwait using a type C power adapter
A page showing how to use a hair dryer in Kuwait using a Type C travel charger.
- Please check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 240 volt power supply but if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions because you might create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer make sure the switch is set to accept 240 volts; please refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on how to do this.
- You'll need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4] if the shape of the power outlet which is used in Kuwait won't accomodate the plug shape of your hair dryer. The Type C plug adapter helps fit plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet used in Kuwait by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 240 volt outlet.
- Begin the process by plugging the Type C plug adapter into the power outlet. This ungrounded plug supply (sometimes called the Europlug or Type C power outlet [3]) can be recognised by 2 round adjacent holes for live and neutral pins.
- Plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
- Switch on the Kuwaiti power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be used in Kuwait. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Kuwait using a type G power adapter
How to power your hair dryer in Kuwait with a Type G travel charger.
- Check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 240 volt power outlet - if not then do not proceed as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer make sure the switch is set to accept 240 volts, please refer to the user guide to find out where this switch is found.
- You will need to use a Type G plug adapter [6] if the shape of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Kuwait. The Type G plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet used in Kuwait by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 240 volt outlet.
- Begin the process by plugging the Type G plug adapter in the Kuwaiti power outlet. You can recognise this plug supply by the three rectangular slots with plastic shutters in a triangular configuration for live, neutral and earth.
- After that plug in your hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
- Turn on the Kuwaiti power outlet. You can now turn on the hair dryer for use in Kuwait. [AD]
See also
External links
We endeavour to ensure that links on this page are periodically checked and correct for suitability. This website may receive commissions for purchases made through links on this page. As an Amazon Associate WikiConnections earn from qualifying purchases. For more details please read the disclaimers page.
- Wikipedia - Kuwait Wikipedia page
- 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 G power outlet
- 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..
- 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 -
- 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.
| 2 other devices in this category | |
| Connecting a Kuwaiti power outlet to: |
|