How do I use a hair dryer in Guinea-Bissau?

Bissau-Guinean power outlet

Will my hair dryer work in Guinea-Bissau?

Check your hair dryer can work in Guinea-Bissau:

If not then you can either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 220 volt Bissau-Guinean power outlet, however this is substantially heavier, bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter will change the voltage but not the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Guinea-Bissau, therefore check that your power converter has an appropriate power adapter for Guinea-Bissau otherwise you will still need to bring another power adapter. Be aware that your own domestic hair dryer might not be suited for travel and you risk damage in a suitcase. [5] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle the 220 volts used in Guinea-Bissau you run the potential risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or blowing a fuse. Before using your hair dryer in Guinea-Bissau please check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Guinea-Bissau

Will my hair dryer work in Guinea-Bissau?

This will depend on if your hair dryer can operate using the 220 volts as used in Guinea-Bissau:

Best travel hair dryers for Guinea-Bissau

Choosing the best hair dryer

A dual voltage switch on a hair dryer

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 a 220 volt Bissau-Guinean power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, long cord and a safety plug. When drying thick hair buy a model with a diffuser that uses a stronger 1600+ watt motor.

9 things to consider when buying a blow dryer

  1. Look for lighter travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers which have a folding handle mean more space.
  2. The best travel hair dryers give control of the speed and temperature settings with high and low options, hotter faster speeds can quickly dry hair and a slower speed with a lower temperature will prevent damage to hair.
  3. Modern travel dryers could include a cool shot option for rapidly cooling hair down after drying to hold a style but this option lacks in cheaper models.
  4. It could be cheaper and more convenient to buy a new dryer that includes a diffuser and concentrator from the manufacturer rather than scouring shops to look for expensive 3rd party attachments to fit the dryer barrel size perfectly.
  5. To operate in Guinea-Bissau a travel hair dryer has to support dual voltage.
  6. Some hotel rooms in Guinea-Bissau might have a fixed mirror positioned away from a convenient outlet making it difficult to style hair, therefore search for a model with the longest power cord available or use either a pocket mirror or extension cord.
  7. Buying the cheapest dryer available might be risky, as well as safety issues there is a greater risk that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to a flimsy construction.
  8. Curlier or thicker hair might need a hair dryer which has a more powerful motor - a higher wattage ceramic model that has a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby preventing damage.
  9. Safe travel hair dryers will include an ALCI safety plug which reduces the risk of the motor overloading leading to starting a fire, these can be recognised by the 2 reset and test buttons on the plug.
Which is the smallest dual voltage hair dryer for Guinea-Bissau?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle and concentrator

Which is the smallest dual voltage hair dryer for Guinea-Bissau?

  • If you want to dry fine and thin hair whilst on the go the 1200 watt ceramic Conair MiniPRO is the best value small ionic blowdryer available on the market.
  • The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is both small and lightweight enough to carry in a handbag because of the 10.5oz body with folding handle that also includes features reserved for larger dryers including a tourmaline outlet which can emit infrared heat to protect against heat damage during styling resulting in a glossier finish.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used with a suitable plug adapter for a Bissau-Guinean power outlet they should work in Guinea-Bissau and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried for styling on the go. Both are twin speed, have a 1.5m electric power cable and include a concentrator.  [6] [6] [7] [AD]

Which is a good blow dryer for thick curly hair?

Thick hair takes longer to dry and can be difficult to do so without your hair turning frizzy, so 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 that is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good folding travel hair dryer for Guinea-Bissau?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle

Which is a good folding travel hair dryer for Guinea-Bissau?

  • A Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and features a cool shot setting 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 meaning faster styling, two heat options, a longer 1.8m power cord and includes a concentrator.

Both models can fold, include an ALCI plug to prevent overloading and has dual voltage making both perfect for visiting Guinea-Bissau in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for a Bissau-Guinean power outlet.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

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

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

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 comes with a tourmaline diffuser however doesn't have cool shot.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a lengthy 1.82m electric power cable for more flexibility when styling with an ALCI power plug and removable filter for 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 both diffuser and concentrator attachments with strong motors to make them the most suitable hair dryers for thick hair. Each dryer is light and folds up to fit into carry-on baggage and only require a plug adapter for Guinea-Bissau to fit into a Bissau-Guinean power outlet.  [8] [9] [9] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best travel hair dryer for Guinea-Bissau?

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.ca/BaBylissPRO-Tourmaline-Titanium-Hairdryer-folding/dp/B085J6ZSMQ?dchild=1&keywords=BaBylissPRO+Tourmaline+Titanium+Travel+Dryer&qid=1623245596&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=faef8b868c67fbce2f88ad461e3009b9&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Conair
Compact
https://www.amazon.ca/Conair-Travel-Smart-Voltage-Silver/dp/B002B8VE4U?crid=9HWAYUNS9B55&keywords=Conair+1875+Watt+Compact+Folding+Handle+Hair+Dryer+with+Dual+Voltage&qid=1695416197&s=beauty&sprefix=conair+1875+watt+compact+folding+handle+hair+dryer+with+dual+voltage%2Cbeauty%2C153&sr=1-11&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.b06bdbbe-20fd-4ebc-88cf-fa04f1ca0da8&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=39c8d488fb25e9e724fe535436892bd0&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Berta
Folding
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01LWIYQSS?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=3744f6d1ac5af63e085818f40332a34b&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
X5
Superlite
https://www.amazon.ca/Revlon-Ceramic-Folding-Handle-Travel/dp/B01ITPVH8G?crid=2DDJ5B92DFABR&keywords=1600W+Dual+Voltage+Ceramic-Ionic+Travel+Dryer&qid=1657296342&sprefix=1600w+dual+voltage+ceramic-ionic+travel+dryer%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-5&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=e17e207600762e53ec89a32b36628172&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Hot Tools
1044
https://www.amazon.ca/Hot-Tools-Professional-Ht1044-Folding/dp/B003A1DWRO?keywords=Hot+Tools+Professional+Ht1044+Ionic+1875+Watt+Travel+Dryer&qid=1695069527&s=beauty&sr=1-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=cbfcfd8ce5309dac7c34a8ed0f4ebc87&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Class Mini Compact Compact with diffuser
Works in Guinea-Bissau 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.

Guinea-Bissau power outlets and plug sockets

What is the electrical frequency used in Guinea-Bissau?

The frequency from a Bissau-Guinean power outlet is 50Hz. [12]

What is the mains voltage in Guinea-Bissau?

Power outlets in Guinea-Bissau are 220 volts.

Which power adapter will you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Guinea-Bissau?

Type C power outlet

Which power adapter will you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Guinea-Bissau?

Type C power outlets are used in Guinea-Bissau. The plug socket (called a Europlug) is recognised by the two circular adjacent holes next to each other where the live and neutral plug socket pins slide into. A Type C power adapter is suitable for powering a 220 volt hair dryer in Guinea-Bissau; read the step by step guide below for full details of using a hair dryer in Guinea-Bissau. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to check if you also have to use a voltage converter.  [4] [13] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can I use a dual voltage hair dryer in Guinea-Bissau?

  1. Check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or that it operates with a 220 volt power socket.
  2. If the dryer is dual voltage please ensure that it is switched to work in the 220-240V range. This is normally found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and requires a coin or screwdriver to switch.
  3. Plug your dryer into the power adapter for Guinea-Bissau and also plug in the power adapter into the Bissau-Guinean power outlet.
  4. It is common on a majority of travel hair dryers operating in the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on a low setting, however the temperature and speed should still be adequate for drying hair. We recommend checking the manufacturers guidelines to find out if this rule is applicable for your model of dual voltage dryer to stop overheating.
  5. Your dryer can now be used with a Bissau-Guinean power outlet.

How do I switch a travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which selects between 2 types of voltages although some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Guinea-Bissau.
  2. This dial or switch typically 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.
  3. Also, it's worth making a note of the two switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to rubbing off on some models of dryer.
How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

Dual 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 can change automatically but other hair dryers will feature a button or switch which allows you to operate between different regions depending on which country you are in.

  • Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Guinea-Bissau then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Bissau-Guinean 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 a Bissau-Guinean power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Guinea-Bissau.
  • Dual voltage will typically say a larger range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Guinea-Bissau or any other country if these numbers are shown.

Travelling to Guinea-Bissau with a hair dryer

Is it better to bring a travel hair dryer or domestic blow dryer to Guinea-Bissau?

Packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing an existing blow dryer to Guinea-Bissau as it ensures that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Bissau-Guinean power outlet (as long as you use the correct plug adapter for Guinea-Bissau). Travel hair dryers normally feature a collapsing handle and are much lighter, this helps reduce the size and weight when packed in luggage compared to packing a domestic blow dryer. Please note that packing your expensive domestic hair dryer could place it at risk because of potential loss or damage in transit by airline baggage handlers. The inconvenience and costs of replacing or repairing an expensive quality domestic hair dryer in Guinea-Bissau might be more than purchasing a much cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case .  [14] [AD]

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Guinea-Bissau?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Guinea-Bissau?

Depending on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer might be available in the room, either packed in a bedroom wardrobe, cupboard or drawer, found attached to a bathroom wall unit or could potentially be a slower air hose type. When staying 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 you can either call ahead to your hotel in Guinea-Bissau or check on the hotel web site to find out what type of hairdryer is available to guests. Hair dryers in hotels are usable but are typically basic models lacking a diffuser and notorious for slow air speeds and low heat. For those concerned with hygiene should remove grime 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 in doubt either call ahead to your hotel in Guinea-Bissau or use a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Can I carry on a hair dryer to Guinea-Bissau in my hand luggage?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I carry on a hair dryer to Guinea-Bissau in my hand luggage?

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 verify that the airline who is flying you to Guinea-Bissau will allow hair dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing your blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible for airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping wires tightly around blow dryers). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to bring hard carry on luggage as this provides the greatest protection against drops and knocks during your journey.   [14] [15] [16] [AD]

Power converters for Guinea-Bissau

What is the difference between a power converter and a plug adapter for Guinea-Bissau?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a power converter and a plug adapter for Guinea-Bissau?

A lightweight, small and cheap power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet found in Guinea-Bissau, but a heavier and more expensive power converter transforms a 220 volt Bissau-Guinean power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer. [5] [AD]

Do I need a converter to use a hair dryer in Guinea-Bissau?

The correct voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 220 volt power outlet used in Guinea-Bissau. Travellers wishing to bring along their existing 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 is to buy a power converter. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be significantly lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suitable when packing. [5] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Guinea-Bissau using a type C power adapter

Instructions showing how to power a hair dryer in Guinea-Bissau with a two pin Type C travel adapter.

  1. Please make sure 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. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to the 220 volt setting - please refer to the instructions for more details on how to do this.
  2. If the type of power outlet which is used in Guinea-Bissau doesn't accomodate the plug on your hair dryer you will need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4]. The Type C plug adapter helps convert plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet used in Guinea-Bissau simply 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. Start the process by plugging the Type C plug adapter in the Bissau-Guinean power outlet. You can recognise the plug outlet by 2 round holes adjacent to each other.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Bissau-Guinean power outlet.
  6. You can now turn on your hair dryer to use in Guinea-Bissau. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Guinea-Bissau using a type C power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - wikipedia.org entry about Guinea-Bissau
  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. 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..
  6. 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..
  7. 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..
  8. 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..
  9. 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..
  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. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  13. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  14. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  15. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  16. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.