Using your hair dryer in Namibia

Namibian power outlet

Can I use my blow dryer in Namibia?

Check that your hair dryer can work in Namibia:

If not then either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 220 volt Namibian power outlet, however this is considerably heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but won't change the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Namibia, therefore check that your voltage transformer comes with an appropriate power adapter for Namibia otherwise you will need to purchase another power adapter. Be aware that your existing hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you could risk damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 220 volts used in Namibia you run the risk of a blown fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Prior to using your hair dryer in Namibia please read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Namibia

Will my hair dryer work in Namibia?

This depends on if your hair dryer can handle the 220 volts as used in Namibia. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can operate using 220 volts and you have the appropriate plug adapter then you'll be able to use the hair dryer in Namibia. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter, read our section on can you use a power converter with a domestic hair dryer in Namibia for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Namibia

Choosing the best travel hair dryer for Namibia

Multiple speed options on a travel hair dryer

Choosing the best travel hair dryer for Namibia

When looking for the best travel hair dryer for Namibia choose a strong but light dual-voltage model that will work with a 220 volt Namibian power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, long cable and a safety plug. If drying thicker hair look for a model which includes a diffuser that has a stronger 1600+ watt dryer.

What should you look for when purchasing a hair dryer?

  1. Look for a lighter travel hair dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models which have a folding handle mean more room.
  2. A modern hair dryer could feature a cool shot button for rapidly cooling down the hair after drying to hold the style but this option could be missing in cheaper models.
  3. Your travel hair dryer needs to support dual voltage to work with a 220 volt Namibian power outlet.
  4. Ideal travel hair dryers for styling allow you to alter the temperature and speed settings with 2 options, a slower speed with a lower temperature will reduce damage to hair whilst a faster hotter speed can dry thicker hair faster.
  5. Don't risk buying the cheapest hair dryer available, as well as issues with safety there is a greater chance that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to cheaper components.
  6. It might be cheaper and more convenient purchasing a new hair dryer that is supplied with a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer instead of scouring shops looking for expensive third party attachments.
  7. Depending on your accommodation there might be a fixed mirror installed away from the nearest outlet which could make it difficult to use the hair dryer, therefore when buying a travel blow dryer search for the longest power cord possible or use either a portable mirror or extension cable.
  8. The safest travel hair dryers will include an ALCI safety plug which minimises the danger of the motor overloading that could start an electrical fire - these are identified with the two reset and test switches.
  9. If you have thicker hair then you might require a blow dryer which has a stronger motor - a high wattage ceramic model which has a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby preventing damage.
What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator

What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer?

  • A Conair MiniPRO is the cheapest small ionic blow dryer available to buy, the 1200 watt ceramic dryer is best suited for quickly drying fine or thin hair on the go.
  • For a folding dryer which is compact enough to carry in a handbag then the 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat to protect from heat damage this dryer manages to incorporate options normally found on larger dryers.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used with a suitable plug adapter for a Namibian power outlet they will work in Namibia and fold conveniently enough to be carried around during the day for styling on the go. Both include a concentrator attachment, have 1.5 metre electric power cables and a two speed motor.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good dual voltage hair dryer with a diffuser?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

Which is a good dual voltage hair dryer with a diffuser?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65 metre electric power cable, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser but it doesn't have cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a lengthy 1.82m power cable for greater flexibility when drying with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter for easy cleaning. It also utilises a strong 1875 watt motor including a cool shot option making it more suited for drying thick hair.

Both ionic hair dryers include a concentrator and diffuser attachment with strong enough motors to make them the best travel hair dryers suitable for thick hair. They will require a suitable cheap plug adapter for Namibia to plug into a Namibian power outlet, they are lightweight and will fold up to pack into carry-on luggage.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is a good hair dryer for thick curly hair?

Thicker hair takes much longer to dry and can be hard to do so without hair turning frizzy. The best option for this type of hair is an ionic blow dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly. Both an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic will be suitable as they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor that is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [10] [11] [AD]

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with cool shot for Namibia?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with bundled concentrator

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with cool shot for Namibia?

  • A Conair Compact Styler has a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and includes cool shot which can will rapidly cool hair down.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, uses a tourmaline ceramic air outlet for negative ions meaning faster styling, twin heat options, a longer 1.8 metre power cable and comes with a concentrator attachment.

Each model folds, includes an ALCI plug which prevents overloading and has dual voltage making both ideal for visiting Namibia in carry on luggage when used with a power adapter for a Namibian power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel blow dryer for Namibia?

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 Namibia 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.

Namibia power outlets and plug sockets

What frequency is used in a Namibian power outlet?

The frequency in a Namibian power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]

What mains voltage is used in Namibia?

The normal residential voltage in Namibia is 220 volts.

Which power adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in Namibia?

Type D and M power outlets

Which power adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in Namibia?

There are two types of power outlets used in Namibia, these are type D and M with the primary power outlets being type D:

  • Plug Type D - You can identify the wall outlet by the three circular holes in a triangular configuration.
  • Plug Type M - The wall socket (technically called a type M power outlet) can be recognised by 3 large holes forming a triangular configuration.

A recommended power adapter to bring to use a 220 volt hair dryer in Namibia is a Type D plug adapter; read the simple guide below for full details of using a hair dryer in Namibia. Please note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to bring a power converter.  [4] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How do I use my dual voltage blow dryer in Namibia?

  1. Check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it will operate with a 220 volt power socket.
  2. If your dryer supports dual voltage please make sure that it is set to work in the 220-240v range. This is usually found on the base or handle of the blow dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug the dryer into the correct power adapter for Namibia and then plug in the power adapter into the Namibian power outlet.
  4. It's normal for a majority of dual voltage hair dryers operating within the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on their lowest setting, however this temperature and speed should still be adequate enough for drying hair. We recommend checking the hair dryer instructions to see if this rule is appropriate for your model of hair dryer to stop the risk of overheating.
  5. Your dryer can now be used with a Namibian power outlet.
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?

An easy way how 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 plug of the hair dryer. The location might depend on the make or model of your hair dryer, it could also be written on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models can change automatically but other hair dryer models will feature a switch which allows you to change between different voltage ranges.

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

How do I switch the voltage on a travel hair dryer?

  1. Most models of dual voltage hair dryers have some type of dial or switch which selects between two voltages although some hair dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Namibia.
  2. This switch or dial will typically require a small screwdriver or coin to change the hair dryer to the right voltage between a 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
  3. As well as switching this it's worth making a note of the 2 switch positions as the painted numbers can occasionally fade on some models.

Travelling to Namibia with a hair dryer

Is it safe to bring my domestic hair dryer to Namibia?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer instead of packing an existing domestic hair dryer to Namibia (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Namibian power outlet (provided that you use the correct power adapter for Namibia). Some types of travel hair dryer will typically feature a collapsing handle and will be much lighter which helps in reducing the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer. It is also worth bearing in mind that bringing your expensive domestic hair dryer could put it at risk because of potential damage or loss in your luggage by an airport baggage handler in Namibia. The inconvenience and costs involved in repairing or replacing an expensive specialised domestic blow dryer in Namibia might be higher than buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before travelling to bring with you .  [16] [AD]

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Namibia?

Hotel hair dryer

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Namibia?

It depends on the hotel or bed and breakfast and the quality of the accommodation. Hotel room hair dryers are normally found in the bathroom, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or might be located in the bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer. When staying in cheaper motels, hotels and hostels a shared hair dryer might be offered at the reception but could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer availability then either call ahead to the hotel in Namibia or check on the booking web site to find out what is available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but are normally basic models with no diffuser and notorious for low heat and slower air speeds. For those concerned with hygiene should check for burnt hair cuticles from other guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

For travellers who don't want to take a chance that a suitable and sanitary hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer or call ahead to the hotel in Namibia to check beforehand.  [2] [AD]

Is a hairdryer allowed onboard a plane to Namibia?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Is a hairdryer allowed onboard a plane to Namibia?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also suggests that you should check that the airline which is flying you to Namibia will allow a blow dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing your hair dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible by airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of power cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping wires tightly around hair dryers). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against knocks and bumps during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Power converters for Namibia

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

Voltage converter

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

An expensive and bulky power converter will convert a 220 volt Namibian power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer, whereas a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet found in Namibia. [7] [AD]

Do you need a voltage converter to use your hair dryer in Namibia?

The correct voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 220 volt power outlet used in Namibia. Travellers who want to use their existing hair dryer can use a power converter, but it could be more expensive to purchase a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also worth noting, a travel hair dryer can be substantially lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for travelling. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Namibia using a type D power adapter

A page showing how to power your hair dryer in Namibia with a Type D power adapter.

  1. Check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 220 volt power supply; if not then do not attempt these instructions because you could damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel hair dryer make sure the switch is set to the 220 volt setting to use in Namibia - refer to the manufacturers instructions to find out where this switch is.
  2. You will need to use a Type D plug adapter [4] if the type of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the power outlet which is used in Namibia. The power adapter is designed to convert different plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet found in Namibia simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Plug the Type D plug adapter into the power outlet. You can identify the wall outlet by three holes forming a triangular configuration for live, neutral and earth.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Namibian power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Namibia using a type D power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Namibia using a type M power adapter

A guide showing how to use a hair dryer in Namibia with a Type M travel charger.

  1. Please ensure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 220 volt power outlet - if it doesn't then don't continue because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting; please refer to the user guide to find out how to do this.
  2. You will need to buy a Type M plug adapter [6] if the shape of the power outlet which is used in Namibia isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair dryer. This plug adapter is designed to fit plugs from other countries into a power outlet in Namibia simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Start by plugging the Type M plug adapter into the Namibian power outlet. You can identify the power supply by the three large holes forming a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type M plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Namibian power outlet. The hair dryer should now be ready to use. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Namibia using a type M power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Namibia entry on wikipedia
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type D power outlet
  4. Type D plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type D electrical adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka..
  5. iec.ch - Type M power outlet
  6. Type M plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type M travel adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in African countries like South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Swaziland, as well as in parts of India..
  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. 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..
  9. 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..
  10. 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..
  11. 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..
  12. 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..
  13. 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..
  14. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  15. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  16. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  17. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.