Which plug adapter will I need when using a hair dryer in Benin?
Can I use my hair dryer in Benin?
First check your hair dryer can work in Benin:
- If your hair dryer can run using 220 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you'll only need to use a suitable power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit.
If not then:
- Use a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] - you may still need an appropriate power adapter for Benin but these lightweight accessories are designed specifically for the rigors of travelling. Before buying see the guide to the best hair driers guaranteed to work with a Beninese power outlet, the top nine features to consider when buying a new blow dryer and a comparison table of the best dual voltage hair dryers in 2023.
- Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 220 volt Beninese power outlet, however this is substantially heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of power outlet used in Benin, so check that the power converter includes an appropriate power adapter for Benin otherwise you will still need to bring a seperate power adapter. Also worth noting that your own existing hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you risk potential damage in your luggage. [7] [AD]
Using a hair dryer in Benin
Will my hair dryer work in Benin?
That will depend on if your hair dryer can handle the 220 volts used in Benin. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can handle 220 volts and you have the correct plug adapter then you'll be able to use your hair dryer in Benin. If not then you will need to consider bringing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2], read our guide on can you use a power converter with your domestic hair dryer in Benin for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]
Best travel hair dryers for Benin
What to look for when choosing a hair dryer for Benin
When choosing the best hair dryer for Benin look for a sturdy but lightweight dual-voltage dryer which operates with a 220 volt Beninese power outlet power outlet, has a safety plug, a long cord and a folding handle. For drying thick hair buy a dryer with a stronger 1600+ watt dryer and bundled diffuser.
The top 9 things to consider when purchasing a travel blow dryer
- 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 - you can idenfity models with the two reset and test switches.
- If you have curlier or thicker hair then you could need a blow dryer which has a more powerful motor; a high wattage ceramic model that has a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby preventing damage.
- Some hotel rooms might have a wall mirror installed some distance away from a convenient power outlet which makes it cumbersome to dry hair, therefore when buying a hair dryer search for the unit with the longest power cord possible.
- Don't risk getting the cheapest travel dryer on the market; as well as concerns with safety there is a greater risk that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to a flimsy construction.
- It could be more convenient and cheaper to buy a dryer which includes both a diffuser and concentrator rather than scouring stores looking for more expensive 3rd party attachments which fit the unique barrel size securely.
- To function in Benin a travel hair dryer needs to support dual voltage.
- The 'cool shot' button on a modern hair dryer will quickly cool down the hair after drying which will hold in a style but this feature might be lacking in smaller or cheaper models.
- Suitable hair dryers for styling give control of the temperature and speed with low and high options; a hotter faster speed will dry thicker hair quicker and lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to your hair.
- Try looking for a lighter travel hair dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models which have a folding handle mean more room for packing other items.
What is the best compact dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot?
- With a strong 2 speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features cool shot that can be used to quickly cool down hair which gives it a long lasting hold.
- The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has a cool shot button, a ceramic tourmaline outlet resulting in safer and quicker drying, two heat settings, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cord and also includes a concentrator.
Both models can fold, include an ALCI safety plug to prevent overloading and support dual voltage making them perfect for visiting Benin in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a Beninese power outlet. [8] [8] [9] [AD]
What is the best blow dryer for thick curly hair?
Thicker hair will take longer to dry and will be hard to dry without your hair going frizzy. The best option will be an ionic dryer, if the hair is curly use a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer 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. [10] [11] [AD]
What is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment?
- The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m electric power cord, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser but is missing a cool shot feature.
- A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a long 1.82 metre power cable for greater freedom when drying with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter for cleaning. It has 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 most suitable hair dryers for thick hair. They are lightweight and will fold up to pack into a carry-on bag and will only require a suitable plug adapter for Benin to work with a Beninese power outlet. [10] [11] [11] [AD]
What is the best small ionic dual voltage hair dryer?
- For quickly drying thin and fine hair on the go the ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the cheapest small ionic blow dryer available to buy.
- The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is lightweight and small enough to transport in a purse because of the 10.5 ounce body and folding handle that also has features reserved for larger blow dryers such as a tourmaline outlet which can emit infrared heat to protect against heat damage resulting in a shinier finish.
Both mini hair dryers have dual voltage when used along with the right power adapter for a Beninese power outlet they should work in Benin folding conveniently enough to be carried for drying on the go. They include a concentrator, have 1.5 metre electric power cords and have a 2 speed motor. [12] [12] [13] [AD]
Best hair dryers for travel
What is the best hair dryer for Benin?
Conair MiniPRO |
BaByliss PRO |
Conair Compact |
Berta Folding |
X5 Superlite |
Hot Tools 1044 |
|
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Class | Mini | Compact | Compact with diffuser | |||
Works in Benin | 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.
Benin power outlets and plug sockets
What is the mains voltage in Benin?
Power outlets in Benin are 220 volts.
What frequency is used in a Beninese power outlet?
The frequency of the alternating current in a Beninese power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]
Which plug adapter will you need to use a hair dryer in Benin?
There are two different types of power outlets used in Benin, types E and C with the primary power outlets being type E:
- Plug Type C - This ungrounded power socket (known as a Europlug) is identified by the 2 circular holes next to each other where the live and neutral pins go.
- Plug Type E - You can identify the wall socket by the two large round adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral plus one long metal earth pin protruding in the top to form a triangle pattern.
A recommended plug adapter to bring for using a 220 volt hair dryer in Benin is a Type E plug adapter, read the simple guide below for full details of using a hair dryer in Benin. Please note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to bring a power converter. [6] [15] [AD]
Dual voltage hair dryers
How should you switch a dual voltage travel hair dryer?
- Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which changes between two ranges of voltages although some hair dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from a Beninese power outlet.
- The switch or dial requires a small screwdriver or coin to set the hair dryer to the right voltage between a 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
- 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.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?
A simple way to tell if your hair dryer can accept dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or the handle. This location will vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer and should also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models will change automatically, however other hair dryers will feature a button which allows you to operate between different voltages depending on which country you are in.
- A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Benin then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Beninese 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 Beninese power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Benin.
- A large range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Benin or any other country.
How do I use my dual voltage blow dryer in Benin?
- Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it operates with a 220 volt power socket.
- If your dryer is dual voltage please make sure that it is switched to the 220-240v range. This is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to turn.
- Plug your dryer into the correct power adapter for Benin, also plug in the power adapter into the Beninese power outlet.
- It's normal for most travel hair dryer models operating within the 220-240V range to only work safely on a low speed setting - however the temperature should still be adequate for drying hair. Always check the manufacturers instructions to find out if this is applicable for your model of dryer to prevent overheating.
- The hair dryer is now ready to be used with a Beninese power outlet.
Travelling to Benin with a hair dryer
Can you carry on a blow 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 your airline who is taking you to Benin will allow blow dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft. Packing the blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible for airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cords tightly around blow dryers). If you do 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 provides the most protection against drops and knocks during transit. [16] [17] [18] [AD]
Do hotel rooms in Benin have hair dryers?
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 a bedroom wardrobe, drawer or cupboard, found attached to a bathroom wall or could be a slower air hose variety.
When staying in budget hotels, hostels and motels a communal hair dryer might be available at reception but that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer policy you can either check on the booking web site or telephone your hotel in Benin to find out what type of hairdryer is available to guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are usable but are normally basic models lacking a diffuser, notorious for low heat and providing slow air speeds. For those worried about hygiene might want to check for grime from other guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.
Travellers who don't want to take a chance that a suitable and germ-free hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer. [2] [AD]
Is it safe to bring my domestic hair dryer to Benin?
It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer instead of packing an existing domestic hair dryer to Benin (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Beninese power outlet (provided that you bring the correct power adapter for Benin). A travel hair dryer will typically feature a collapsible handle and are much lighter which will help reduce the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic blow dryer.
Please be aware that packing an expensive domestic hair dryer could place it at risk due to potential loss or damage in transit by an airline baggage handler. The cost and inconvenience of repairing an expensive specialised hair dryer in Benin could outweigh the costs of purchasing a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off . [17] [AD]
Power converters for Benin
Can I use my hair dryer with a voltage converter for Benin?
A suitable power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 220 volt power outlet used in Benin. A power converter is suitable for travellers wishing to use their existing domestic hair dryer, however it can be more expensive to buy a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be considerably smaller than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suitable for packing in luggage. [7] [AD]
What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter?
A lightweight, cheap and small power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in Benin, but a heavy and bulkier power converter converts the voltage of 220 volts from a Beninese power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Benin using a type C power adapter
Instructions showing how to use a hair dryer in Benin with a Type C travel charger.
- Ensure 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 don't continue because you could blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting; please refer to the owners manual to find out how to do this.
- If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet which is used in Benin you will need to use a Type C plug adapter [4]. This Type C plug adapter will adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet found in Benin 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 insert the Type C plug adapter in the power outlet. This ungrounded wall outlet is recognised by 2 adjacent holes where the live and neutral pins slide into.
- Plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
- Turn on the Beninese power outlet.
- You can now turn on the hair dryer in Benin. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Benin using a type E power adapter
How to power a hair dryer in Benin using a two pronged Type E power charger.
- Ensure that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then do not proceed as you might blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage hair dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure the switch is set to accept 220 volts for use in Benin - consult the manufacturers instructions for more information on where this switch is.
- You will need to buy a Type E plug adapter [6] if the type of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the plug outlet which is used in Benin. The plug adapter is designed to convert plugs from other countries for a power outlet in Benin 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.
- Begin by taking the Type E plug adapter and plugging it into the Beninese power outlet. You can identify the wall outlet by the two large adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral plus one long metal earth pin protruding in the top to form a triangle pattern.
- Plug in the hair dryer into the Type E plug adapter.
- Switch on the Beninese power outlet. The hair dryer can now be powered on. [AD]
See also
External links
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- Wikipedia - Beninese 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 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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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