Which power adapter do I need when using a hair dryer in Cameroon?

Cameroonian power outlet

Can I use my hair dryer in Cameroon?

Check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Cameroon:

If not then you can either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 220 volt Cameroonian power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter will change the voltage but not the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of wall outlet used in Cameroon, so check that the voltage transformer has a suitable power adapter for Cameroon otherwise you will still need to bring another power adapter. Note that your existing hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you risk damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle the 220 volts used in Cameroon you run a risk of a blown fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Prior to using your hair dryer in Cameroon check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Cameroon

Will my hair dryer work in Cameroon?

That will depend on if your hair dryer can handle the 220 volt power outlets used in Cameroon. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can operate using 220 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you should be able to use your hair dryer in Cameroon. 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 guide on can you use a voltage converter to use your domestic hair dryer in Cameroon for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Cameroon

What to look for when buying a travel blow dryer for Cameroon

Bundled diffuser and concentrator attachments

What to look for when buying a travel blow dryer for Cameroon

When looking for the best travel hair dryer choose a robust but lightweight dual voltage dryer that operates with a 220 volt Cameroonian power outlet power outlet, has a safety plug, folding handle and a long power cord. For drying thick hair look for a faster 1600+ watt dryer and included diffuser.

What to look for when buying a travel hair dryer?

  1. If you have thicker or curlier hair then you may need a travel blow dryer which has a stronger motor. A higher wattage ceramic model which has a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby avoiding damage.
  2. Depending on your accommodation there could be a mirror installed some distance away from the nearest outlet making it cumbersome to dry hair, so when buying a hair dryer look for the longest power cord available or use either a power extension cable or pocket mirror.
  3. Safe travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will minimise the danger of the motor overloading leading to a fire, models are identified with the two test and reset buttons on the plug.
  4. It might be more convenient and cheaper buying a new hair dryer that includes a diffuser and concentrator from the manufacturer instead of scouring stores looking for more expensive third party attachments which fit the barrel size perfectly.
  5. Buying the cheapest travel hair dryer on the market is risky; as well as issues with safety there is also a greater chance that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to cheaper components.
  6. Suitable hair dryers should give control of both speed and temperature settings with high and low options, hotter faster speeds will quickly dry thicker wet hair whereas slower speeds with lower temperatures reduce damage to hair.
  7. Your hair dryer needs to support dual voltage in order to function in Cameroon.
  8. A 'cool shot' option can rapidly cool hair down after drying to hold the style but this feature could be missing in more compact dryers.
  9. Try to look for lighter travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models which have folding handles will mean more space.
What is the best folding dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with bundled concentrator

What is the best folding dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot?

  • A Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and includes cool shot that can will rapidly cool down hair.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot button, a tourmaline ceramic outlet for negative ions resulting in safer styling, two heat options, a longer 1.8 metre power cable and also comes with a concentrator.

Both models can fold, include an ALCI plug to prevent power overloads and support dual voltage making both ideal for travel to Cameroon in carry on luggage when used along with a power adapter for a Cameroonian power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is the best hair dryer for thick hair?

Thicker hair will take longer to dry and might be difficult to do so without your hair going frizzy, so the best option for thick hair will be an ionic blow dryer and for curly thick hair we suggest a diffuser as both are suitable to dry and manage hair smoothly without frizz. Either an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic will be suitable because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and included 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]

Which is a good mini travel hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator

Which is a good mini travel hair dryer?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the cheapest mini ionic blow dryer available to buy, this ceramic 1200 watt dryer is best suited for quickly drying fine and thin hair on the go.
  • A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is lightweight and small enough to carry in a purse because of the 10.5 ounce body with folding handle that has options found on larger hair dryers including a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage during styling which results in a shinier finish.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used in combination with the right power adapter for a Cameroonian power outlet they will work in Cameroon and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried for styling on the go. They have a 1.5 metre power cord, have a two speed motor and include a concentrator.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Which is the best dual voltage hair dryer with a diffuser attachment for Cameroon?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

Which is the best dual voltage hair dryer with a diffuser attachment for Cameroon?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65m electric power cord, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser however doesn't have cool shot.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a long 1.82 metre power cord for more freedom when drying with an ALCI power plug and removable filter for easy cleaning. It uses a strong 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it ideal for drying thicker hair.

Both ionic hair dryers feature a concentrator and diffuser with strong motors to make them the best travel blow dryers for thick hair. Each hair dryer is light and folds up to pack into carry-on baggage and only require a suitable cheap power adapter for Cameroon to work with a Cameroonian power outlet.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best blow dryer to buy for Cameroon?

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 Cameroon 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.

Cameroon power outlets and plug sockets

What is the voltage in Cameroon?

Power outlets in Cameroon are 220 volts.

What is the frequency used with a Cameroonian power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current from a Cameroonian power outlet is 50Hz. [14]

Which travel adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Cameroon?

Type C and E power outlets

Which travel adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Cameroon?

There are two types of power outlets used in Cameroon, types E and C with the primary power outlets being type E:

  • Plug Type C - You can identify this power socket by the 2 round holes adjacent to each other for live and neutral pins.
  • Plug Type E - You can identify this plug socket by the two round holes 19mm adjacent to each other for live and neutral pins and a long metal earth pin protruding in the top to form a triangle configuration.

A Type E power adapter will allow you to use a 220 volt hair dryer in Cameroon, read the step-by-step guide below for full details of using a plug adapter for Cameroon. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to confirm if you have to use a voltage converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can you switch a travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have a dial or switch which toggles between 2 voltages although some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from a Cameroonian power outlet.
  2. This switch or dial requires a coin or screwdriver to set the dryer to the right voltage between the 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
  3. In addition to switching this over it's worth jotting down the two switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to fading on certain models.

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

  1. Check that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer and that it works with a 220 volt power socket.
  2. If the dryer supports dual voltage please ensure it is set to work in the 220-240v range. The switch is normally found on the base or handle of the blow dryer and requires a coin or screwdriver to switch.
  3. Plug the dryer into the correct power adapter for Cameroon, then plug in the power adapter into the Cameroonian power outlet.
  4. It is normal for most travel hair dryers operating in the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on a low speed setting; however this temperature should still be sufficient enough for drying hair. We recommend checking the manufacturers guidelines to find out if this rule is relevant for your model of dryer to prevent the risk of overheating.
  5. The dryer can now be operated with a Cameroonian power outlet.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer 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 plug, handle or base. The location will depend on the make and model of your hair dryer, it could also state on the box. Some dual voltage models might change automatically, however other hair dryers will feature a button or switch which allows you to operate between different voltages.

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

Travelling to Cameroon with a hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Cameroon have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Cameroon have hair dryers?

Depending on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the room, either packed in the bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard, found in the bathroom or could be of a slower air hose variety. When staying in cheaper hotels, hostels and motels a shared hair dryer might be offered at the reception but that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt as to hotel hairdryer policy you can either look on the booking web site or call ahead to your hotel in Cameroon to find out what is available to guests. Hair dryers in hotels are usable but are normally rudimentary models lacking a diffuser, notorious for providing slower air speeds and low heat. For those concerned with hygiene should remove the burnt hair cuticles from other guests on a communal hair dryer as room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

Remember, if in doubt either telephone ahead to the hotel in Cameroon or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Is a hair dryer allowed on a plane to Cameroon?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Is a hair dryer allowed on a plane to Cameroon?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA suggests that you should verify that the airline that is taking you to Cameroon will allow a hair dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft. Packing the hair 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 avoiding a tangle of power wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cords tightly around electronic items). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the greatest protection against knocks and bumps during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Is it safe to bring my domestic blow dryer to Cameroon?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer instead of packing your existing domestic blow dryer to Cameroon (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Cameroonian power outlet (as long as you use the correct power adapter for Cameroon). Some models of travel hair dryer will normally feature a folding handle and will be lighter which will help reduce the size and weight when packed in luggage compared to packing a domestic blow dryer.

Please note that bringing an expensive domestic hair dryer might put it at risk because of potential loss or damage in transit by an airline baggage handler. The costs involved in replacing an expensive specialised blow dryer in Cameroon might be more than buying a much cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before travelling to bring with you .  [17] [AD]

Power converters for Cameroon

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

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a plug 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 Cameroon, but a heavy and bulkier power converter will transform the voltage of 220 volts from a Cameroonian power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

Do you need a power converter in Cameroon to use a hair dryer?

A suitable power converter (or voltage transformer) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 220 volt power outlet used in Cameroon. Travellers who want to bring their existing hair dryer can use a power converter, however it can be less expensive to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it will be to purchase a power converter. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be noticeably lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suitable when packing in luggage. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Cameroon using a type C power adapter

A guide showing you how to power your hair dryer in Cameroon using a Type C travel adapter.

  1. Please make sure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 220 volt power supply but if not then do not continue as you may damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer ensure the switch is set to accept 220 volts; consult the user guide for more details on how to do this.
  2. You'll need to use a Type C plug adapter [4] if the type of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of power outlet used in Cameroon. This Type C plug adapter will help convert plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet in Cameroon by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Start the process by inserting the Type C plug adapter in the wall outlet. You can identify the plug supply by two circular adjacent holes where the twin plug outlet pins go.
  4. After that plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Cameroonian power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be used in Cameroon. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Cameroon using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Cameroon using a type E power adapter

Instructions on how to power your hair dryer in Cameroon with a Type E travel adapter.

  1. Ensure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 220 volt power outlet; but if it doesn't then don't proceed as you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Some dual voltage travel blow dryers will sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure the switch is set to the 220 volt setting - please refer to the user guide to find out where this switch is located.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Cameroon you will need to bring a Type E plug adapter [6]. The power adapter will help adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet used in Cameroon by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Begin by taking the Type E plug adapter and plugging it in the Cameroonian power outlet. You can identify this power outlet by the two round holes 19mm adjacent to each other for live and neutral pins and a long metal earth pin protruding in the top to form a triangular configuration.
  4. After that plug in the hair dryer into the Type E plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Cameroonian power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be used in Cameroon. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Cameroon using a type E power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - wikipedia.org entry about Cameroon
  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. iec.ch - Type E power outlet
  6. 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..
  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. 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..
  9. 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..
  10. 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..
  11. 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..
  12. 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..
  13. 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..
  14. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  15. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  16. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  17. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.