How do I use my hair dryer in Lesotho?

Basotho power outlet

Will my hair dryer work in Lesotho?

First check that your hair dryer can work in Lesotho:

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 Basotho power outlet, however this is significantly heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but won't change the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Lesotho, so please check that the voltage transformer comes with a suitable power adapter for Lesotho otherwise you will still need to bring another power adapter. Also worth noting that your own domestic hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you risk potential damage in your luggage. [5] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 220 volts used in Lesotho you run the potential risk of an electrical fire hazard, blowing a fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Prior to using your hair dryer in Lesotho check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Lesotho

Will my hair dryer work in Lesotho?

It depends on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 220 volts used in Lesotho:

Best travel hair dryers for Lesotho

How to choose the best travel blow dryer for Lesotho

Bundled diffuser and concentrator attachments

How to choose the best travel blow dryer for Lesotho

When looking for the best travel hair dryer choose a robust but lightweight dual-voltage dryer that will work with a 220 volt Basotho power outlet power outlet, has a long cable, a folding handle and a safety plug. When drying thick hair buy a stronger 1600+ watt dryer and bundled diffuser.

Things to look for when purchasing a hair dryer

  1. The safest travel hair dryers will include an ALCI safety plug which reduces the danger of overloading that could lead to fires, these are identified with the 2 reset and test buttons found on the plug.
  2. If you have curlier or thicker hair then you could require a hair dryer with a more powerful motor, a high wattage ceramic dryer which includes a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby preventing damage.
  3. Some hotel rooms in Lesotho could have a mirror installed some distance away from the nearest outlet making it awkward to operate the blow dryer, so search for the model with the lengthiest power cord possible or pack either a power extension cable or pocket mirror.
  4. Don't just buy the cheapest hair dryer on the market - as well as concerns with safety there is a greater risk that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to a poor build.
  5. Instead of looking for expensive third party attachments which fit the barrel perfectly it might be more convenient and cheaper to buy a new dryer that includes both a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer.
  6. Your hair dryer needs to support dual voltage in order to work in Lesotho.
  7. A cool shot option on modern travel dryers will rapidly cool down hair after drying which will hold in a style but this option might be lacking in smaller models.
  8. The best hair dryers should give control of both speed and temperature settings with two options; a lower temperature with a slower speed will reduce damage to hair whilst a hotter faster speed will dry wet hair faster.
  9. Look for a lightweight travel hair dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers with a handle which folds will mean more room.
Which is the best travel hair dryer with cool shot?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle

Which is the best travel hair dryer with cool shot?

  • With a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler includes cool shot which can be used to quickly cool hair down.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has a cool shot setting, uses a tourmaline ceramic outlet for negative ions resulting in faster styling, 2 heat settings, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cable and includes a concentrator attachment.

Each model is folding, includes an ALCI safety plug to prevent overloading and support dual voltage making both perfect for travel to Lesotho in carry on luggage if used along with a power adapter for a Basotho power outlet.  [6] [6] [7] [AD]

Which is the best hair dryer for thick or curly hair?

Thicker hair will take longer to dry and could be difficult to do so without hair going frizzy, the best option is an ionic blow dryer, if the hair is curly use a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Both 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 blow dryer with a motor less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [8] [9] [AD]

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with diffuser attachment?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

What is a good folding travel hair dryer with diffuser attachment?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m electric power cord, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser however doesn't have cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a generous 1.82 metre electric power cable for greater flexibility when styling with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter for cleaning. With a strong 1875 watt motor it also has cool shot making it perfect for drying thick hair.

Each ionic travel hair dryer includes both diffuser and concentrator with powerful enough motors to make them the best blow dryers suitable for thick hair. Each hair dryer is lightweight and folds up to pack into a carry-on bag, only requiring a power adapter for Lesotho to fit into a Basotho power outlet.  [8] [9] [9] [AD]

What is a good mini ionic travel hair dryer with dual voltage?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle and concentrator

What is a good mini ionic travel hair dryer with dual voltage?

  • To dry fine or thin hair on the go the 1200 watt ceramic Conair MiniPRO is the cheapest mini ionic hair dryer available to buy.
  • A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is compact enough to transport in a purse due to a 10.5oz body and folding handle that also has options found on larger hair dryers including a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage during styling for a shinier finish.

Both mini hair dryers are dual voltage and when used with a suitable plug adapter for a Basotho power outlet they should work in Lesotho folding conveniently enough to be carried around during the day for drying on the go. They have a 1.5 metre power cable, have a 2 speed motor and include a concentrator.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best blow dryer for Lesotho?

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 Lesotho 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.

Lesotho power outlets and plug sockets

What mains voltage is used in Lesotho?

Power outlets in Lesotho are 220 volts.

What is the frequency used with a Basotho power outlet?

The frequency from a Basotho power outlet is 50Hz. [12]

Which plug adapter do you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Lesotho?

The type of power outlet used in Lesotho is type M. You can identify the plug outlet by three large holes in a triangular pattern for live, neutral and ground. A suitable plug adapter to bring when using a 220 volt hair dryer in Lesotho is a Type M plug adapter - read the simple instructions below for full details of using a plug adapter for Lesotho. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to bring a voltage converter.  [4] [13] [AD]

Which plug adapter do you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Lesotho?

Dual voltage hair dryers

How should I change the voltage on a travel hair dryer?

  1. Most dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which toggles between two voltages however some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from a Basotho power outlet.
  2. This switch or dial needs either a small coin or screwdriver to change the dryer to the correct voltage between the 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
  3. As well as changing this it is worth jotting down both switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to fading on certain models.
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 outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or the plug. This location might depend on the make or model of your hair dryer and should also be written on the box. Some dual voltage hair dryers can change automatically, however other hair dryer models will feature a button or switch which allows you to operate between different voltages.

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

How can you use a dual voltage blow dryer in Lesotho?

  1. Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or that it will work with a 220 volt power socket.
  2. If your hair dryer is dual voltage then ensure that it is set to the 220-240V range. The switch is usually found on the base or handle of the blow dryer and requires a coin or screwdriver to turn.
  3. Plug the dryer into the correct power adapter for Lesotho, also plug in the power adapter into the Basotho power outlet.
  4. It is common on a majority of dual voltage hair dryer models operating in the 220-240v range to only work safely on their lowest setting - however the speed should be sufficient enough for drying hair. Please check the manufacturers guidelines to find out if this rule is appropriate for your model of hair dryer to prevent the risk of overheating.
  5. Your dryer is now ready to be used in Lesotho.

Travelling to Lesotho with a hair dryer

Is a hair dryer allowed onboard a plane to Lesotho?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Is a hair dryer allowed onboard a plane to Lesotho?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also recommends that you should verify that your airline which is flying you to Lesotho will allow hair 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 for 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). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the most protection against drops and knocks during your journey.   [14] [15] [16] [AD]

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Lesotho?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Lesotho?

Depending on the hotel and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the hotel room, either packed in a bedroom wardrobe, cupboard or drawer, found in the bathroom or could be of a slower air hose variety. When staying in cheaper hotels, motels and hostels a communal hair dryer might be available at the reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer availability then either check on the booking web site or telephone your hotel in Lesotho to find out what is available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are usable but are normally rudimentary models with no diffuser, notorious for low heat and providing slower air speeds. Those worried about hygiene might want to check for burnt hair from previous guests on a communal hair dryer as room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

For travellers who aren't sure that a suitable or germ-free hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer or call ahead to the hotel in Lesotho to check before travelling.  [2] [AD]

Should you bring a travel hair dryer or domestic hair dryer to Lesotho?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer rather than bringing your existing domestic hair dryer to Lesotho as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Basotho power outlet (provided that you use the correct power adapter for Lesotho). A travel hair dryer will normally feature a collapsible handle and are lighter, this helps in reducing the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer. It is also worth bearing in mind that packing an expensive domestic blow dryer might put it at risk because of potential loss or damage in transit by an airport baggage handler in Lesotho. The cost and inconvenience of replacing or repairing an expensive specialised domestic hair dryer in Lesotho could be higher than purchasing a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before travelling to bring along .  [15] [AD]

Power converters for Lesotho

Do I need a converter to use my hair dryer in Lesotho?

A suitable voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 220 volt power outlet used in Lesotho. Travellers who wish to use their existing hair dryer can use a power converter, however it might be more expensive to buy a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be substantially smaller than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for packing in luggage. [5] [AD]

What is the difference between a power adapter and a voltage converter?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a power adapter and a voltage converter?

A lightweight, cheap and small power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet found in Lesotho, whereas a heavy and bulkier power converter converts a 220 volt Basotho power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer. [5] [AD]

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

Instructions showing you how to use your hair dryer in Lesotho by using a 3 pin Type M power charger.

  1. Make sure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power supply; if it doesn't then do not proceed because you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a travel hair dryer ensure you have set it to accept 220 volts to use in Lesotho, please consult the instructions to find out where this switch is located.
  2. You will need to buy a Type M plug adapter [4] if the shape of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the power outlet which is used in Lesotho. This Type M plug adapter will help convert plugs from other countries for use in an electrical outlet found in Lesotho simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. First you'll need to insert the Type M plug adapter into the Basotho power outlet. The power supply, technically known as the Type M power outlet [3], can be identified by 3 circular holes forming a triangle configuration for live, neutral and ground pins.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type M plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Basotho power outlet.
  6. Your hair dryer can now be used in Lesotho. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Lesotho using a type M power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Basotho Wikipedia web page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type M power outlet
  4. 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..
  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. 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..
  7. 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..
  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. 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..
  11. 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..
  12. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  13. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  14. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  15. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  16. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.