How do I use a hair dryer in Cape Verde?

Cape Verdean power outlet

Can I use my hair dryer in Cape Verde?

Check your hair dryer can work in Cape Verde:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 220 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can check) then you'll only need to use the correct power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit in the outlet.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 220 volt Cape Verdean power outlet, however this is noticeably bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but not the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of power outlet used in Cape Verde, therefore check that your power converter has an appropriate power adapter for Cape Verde otherwise you will still need to bring another power adapter. Be aware that your own personal hair dryer might not be suited for travel and you risk potential damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 220 volts you run a risk of an electrical fire hazard, blowing a fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Prior to using your hair dryer in Cape Verde read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Cape Verde

Will my hair dryer work in Cape Verde?

This will depend on if your hair dryer can handle the 220 volts as used in Cape Verde:

Best travel hair dryers for Cape Verde

Choosing the best hair dryer

Bundled diffuser and concentrator attachments

Choosing the best hair dryer

When looking for the best hair dryer choose a robust but lightweight dual voltage model that operates with a 220 volt Cape Verdean power outlet power outlet, includes a folding handle, long cable and an ALCI safety plug. When drying thick hair buy a model with a diffuser that uses a stronger 1600+ watt motor.

What should I look for when purchasing a travel blow dryer?

  1. A hair dryer needs to be dual voltage in order to function with a 220 volt Cape Verdean power outlet.
  2. Buying the cheapest dryer available might be risky; as well as safety concerns there is also a greater chance that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to cheaper parts.
  3. The 'cool shot' feature on a modern travel dryer will rapidly cool down hair after drying to hold the style but this feature might be lacking in cheaper dryers.
  4. Safe travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will reduce the risk of overloading and starting an electrical fire; you can idenfity these models with the two 'test' and 'reset' switches.
  5. Look for lighter travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models with a handle which folds mean more room to pack other items.
  6. If you have thicker or curlier hair then you may need a blow dryer with a more powerful motor; a high wattage ceramic dryer that has a diffuser will dry hair much faster to avoid damage.
  7. Some hotel rooms in Cape Verde might have a wall mirror installed too far away from a power outlet which could make it hard to operate the travel dryer, so when buying a hair dryer look for the lengthiest power cord available or pack either a portable mirror or an extension cord.
  8. The best travel hair dryers let you to control the speed and temperature settings with 2 options; a faster hotter speed will quickly dry thicker hair whereas a slower speed with a lower temperature should prevent damage to your hair.
  9. It could be cheaper and more convenient to buy a dryer that includes both a diffuser and concentrator from the manufacturer rather than scouring stores looking for expensive 3rd party attachments.
What is a good dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser attachment?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer

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

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m electric power cable, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but lacks a cool shot option.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a longer 1.82 metre power cord for greater freedom when drying with an ALCI safety plug and removable filter to clean. It also has a powerful 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it perfect for drying thicker hair.

Both ionic hair dryers feature both diffuser and concentrator with strong motors to make them the best travel blow dryers for thick hair. They are lightweight and will fold up to pack in a carry-on bag, only requiring a suitable power adapter for Cape Verde to work with a Cape Verdean power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is the smallest dual voltage hair dryer for Cape Verde?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle and concentrator

Which is the smallest dual voltage hair dryer for Cape Verde?

  • To dry thin or fine hair on the go then a ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the cheapest small ionic hair dryer available to buy.
  • For a hairdryer which is both small and lightweight enough to carry in a handbag then a 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat for a glossy finish this dryer has options which are normally found with bulkier models.

Both of these mini hair dryers support dual voltage and when used with a suitable power adapter for a Cape Verdean power outlet they should work in Cape Verde and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried for styling on the go. Both include a concentrator, have 1.5m electric power cables and have a 2 speed motor.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Which is a good hair dryer for thick curly hair?

Thick hair will take much longer to dry and will be difficult to do so without hair going frizzy, so the best option for thick hair will be an ionic hair dryer and for curly thick hair we suggest a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Both the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer will be suitable as they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good folding dual voltage hair dryer for Cape Verde?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

Which is a good folding dual voltage hair dryer for Cape Verde?

  • A Conair Compact Styler has a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and includes a cool shot button which can will quickly cool hair down to give a longer lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, a tourmaline ceramic air outlet for negative ions resulting in safer drying, 2 heat options, a longer 1.8m electric power cord and includes a concentrator.

Both models can fold, include an ALCI plug to prevent overloading and support dual voltage making both perfect for visiting Cape Verde in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a Cape Verdean power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best travel hair dryer for Cape Verde?

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 Cape Verde 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.

Cape Verde power outlets and plug sockets

What is the electrical frequency used in Cape Verde?

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

What is the mains voltage in Cape Verde?

Power outlets in Cape Verde are 220 volts.

Which plug adapter do you need when using a hair dryer in Cape Verde?

Type C and F power outlets

Which plug adapter do you need when using a hair dryer in Cape Verde?

There are two types of power outlets used in Cape Verde, types F and C with the primary power outlets being type F:

  • Plug Type C - The plug socket, technically called a Europlug, is recognised by 2 holes next to each other where the twin plug socket pins go.
  • Plug Type F - This round power socket (also known as the type F power outlet or Schuko socket) can be recognised by the two large circular holes 19 mm next to each other for live and neutral, plus a pair of two grounding clips on the top and bottom.

A recommended power adapter to bring to use a 220 volt hair dryer in Cape Verde is a Type F power adapter; read the step-by-step instructions below for full details of using a hair dryer in Cape Verde using a plug adapter. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to confirm if you also have to use a power converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

One way to tell if your hair dryer will handle a dual voltage outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or handle of the hair dryer. This location might depend on the make or model of your hair dryer and could also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair dryers might change automatically, however other hair dryer models will feature a button which allows you to change between different regions.

  • Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Cape Verde then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Cape Verdean 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 Cape Verdean power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Cape Verde.
  • 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 Cape Verde or any other country if these numbers are shown.

How do I switch a travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which changes between two sets of voltages however some hair dryers can automatically detect the voltage from a Cape Verdean power outlet.
  2. The switch or dial requires a screwdriver or coin to set the hair dryer to the correct voltage between the 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
  3. Also it's worth jotting down the two switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to rubbing off on some models of dryer.

How can I use a dual voltage hair dryer in Cape Verde?

  1. First check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or it will work with a 220 volt power socket.
  2. If the hair dryer supports dual voltage please ensure it is set to the 220-240V range. The switch is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to turn.
  3. Plug your hair dryer into the correct power adapter for Cape Verde, also plug in the power adapter into the Cape Verdean power outlet.
  4. It is normal for most travel hair dryers operating within the 220-240V 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 instructions to find out if this rule is relevant for your model of dryer to stop the risk of overheating.
  5. The hair dryer is now ready to operate in Cape Verde.

Travelling to Cape Verde with a hair dryer

Is a blowdryer allowed on a flight in Cape Verde?

Folding travel hair dryer

Is a blowdryer allowed on a flight in Cape Verde?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA suggests that you should check that your airline who is flying you to Cape Verde will allow blow 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 checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping wires tightly around electronic items such as hair dryers). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the most protection against knocks and bumps during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Should I bring a domestic blow dryer or a travel hair dryer to Cape Verde?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to packing an existing domestic blow dryer to Cape Verde (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 Cape Verdean power outlet (provided that you bring the correct power adapter for Cape Verde). A travel hair dryer will typically feature a collapsible handle and are lighter which helps reduce the size and weight when packed in travellers 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 an airport baggage handler. The inconvenience and costs involved in repairing an expensive quality domestic blow dryer in Cape Verde could overshadow the cost of buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before travelling to bring with you .  [17] [AD]

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Cape Verde?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Cape Verde?

It depends on the hotel 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 could be found in the bedroom cupboard, drawer or wardrobe. If staying in budget hostels, motels and hotels a shared hair dryer could be available at reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer policy you could either call ahead to your hotel in Cape Verde or check on the booking web site to find out what type of hairdryer is available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are usable but normally rudimentary models lacking a diffuser, notorious for low heat and providing slow air speeds. Those worried about hygiene might want to check for any grime from other guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

For travellers who aren't sure that a suitable or germ-free hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer or telephone their hotel in Cape Verde to check beforehand.  [2] [AD]

Power converters for Cape Verde

Can you use your hair dryer with a voltage converter in Cape Verde?

The correct model of voltage transformer (or power converter) allows your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 220 volt power outlet used in Cape Verde. A power converter is more suitable for travellers who want to bring along their existing hair dryer, but it could be considerably cheaper to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to buy a power converter. Also, a power converter is significantly bulkier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suited for packing in luggage compared to a travel hair dryer. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

An expensive and heavy power converter transforms a 220 volt Cape Verdean power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer, however a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Cape Verde. [7] [AD]

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

Instructions showing how to power your hair dryer in Cape Verde with a two pinned Type C power charger.

  1. Make sure that the blow 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 continue as you may damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure you have set it to accept 220 volts; refer to the owners manual to find out where this switch is located.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet which is used in Cape Verde you'll need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4]. The power adapter will fit different plugs from other countries into an electrical outlet in Cape Verde by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Begin by taking the Type C plug adapter and inserting it into the Cape Verdean power outlet. This ungrounded wall supply (sometimes called a Type C power outlet [3] or Europlug) is recognised by the two round holes next to each other for live and neutral.
  4. Next plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Cape Verdean power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be used in Cape Verde. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Cape Verde using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Cape Verde using a type F power adapter

Instructions showing how to power a hair dryer in Cape Verde with a two pin Type F travel charger.

  1. Please ensure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 220 volt power outlet; 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 travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages make sure you have set it to accept 220 volts to use in Cape Verde; refer to the owners manual for more information on where this switch is located.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet which is used in Cape Verde you'll need to buy a Type F plug adapter [6]. This power adapter helps fit different plugs from other countries into an electrical outlet in Cape Verde by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Begin by taking the Type F plug adapter and plugging it into the Cape Verdean power outlet. This round power outlet (sometimes known as the Type F power outlet [5] or Schuko outlet) can be recognised by the two large circular holes 19 mm next to each other for live and neutral, plus a pair of two grounding clips on the top and bottom.
  4. Next plug in the hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Cape Verdean power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be used in Cape Verde. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Cape Verde using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Cape Verde Wikipedia web page
  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 F power outlet
  6. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  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. 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..
  9. 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..
  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. 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. 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.