How do I use my hair dryer in Principe?

Prinicipe power outlet

Will my hairdryer work in Principe?

Check that your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Principe:

  • If your hair dryer can run on 220 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can tell) then you'll only need to use a suitable power adapter listed below if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 220 volt Prinicipe power outlet, however this is substantially heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Principe, therefore please check that the power converter comes with the correct power adapter for Principe otherwise you will also need to bring a seperate power adapter. Please note that your own personal hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you could risk damage in your suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 220 volts used in Principe you run a risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or a blown fuse. Prior to using your hair dryer in Principe check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Principe

Will my hair dryer work in Principe?

That will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 220 volt power outlets in Principe:

Best travel hair dryers for Principe

How to choose the best hair dryer for Principe

Travel hair dryer with a folding handle

How to choose the best hair dryer for Principe

When choosing the best travel hair dryer look for a robust but light dual voltage dryer which operates with a 220 volt Prinicipe power outlet power outlet with a folding handle, long cable and ALCI safety plug. If drying thick hair buy a model which includes a diffuser that uses a faster 1600+ watt motor.

Nine things to look for when buying a new hair dryer

  1. It could be more convenient and cheaper to buy a hair dryer that is supplied with a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer instead of scouring shops looking for more expensive 3rd party attachments which fit the barrel size securely.
  2. Depending on the accommodation there might be a fixed mirror installed some distance away from a convenient power outlet which makes it difficult to style hair, so when buying a travel blow dryer find the longest power cord possible or pack either an extension cable or portable mirror.
  3. Ideal travel hair dryers for styling should allow you to alter both speed and temperature with different options, lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to hair whilst faster hotter speeds can quickly dry wet hair.
  4. Thicker or curlier hair might need a travel hair dryer with a stronger motor - a high wattage ceramic model which has a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby preventing damage.
  5. The safest travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which reduces the risk of overloading the motor and starting a fire - these are identified with 'test' and 'reset' buttons.
  6. Try looking for lightweight travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, dryers with folding handles mean more room.
  7. Buying the cheapest travel dryer available might be risky - as well as concerns with safety there is a greater chance that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to cheaper components.
  8. The 'cool shot' button on a modern blow dryer can rapidly cool hair down after drying to hold the style but this option might be lacking in more compact models.
  9. To work in Principe your hair dryer has to be dual voltage.
What is a good folding dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot for Principe?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

What is a good folding dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot for Principe?

  • Using a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features cool shot which can will quickly cool down hair.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot setting, a tourmaline ceramic air outlet resulting in safer styling, 2 heat settings, a longer 1.8m power cable and comes with a concentrator.

Both models fold, include an ALCI safety plug to prevent power overloads and has dual voltage making both perfect for travel to Principe in carry on luggage when used with a power adapter for a Prinicipe power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is a good blow dryer for thick and curly hair?

Thicker hair takes much longer to dry and might be difficult to dry without the hair turning frizzy, so the best option will be an ionic dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly. Both an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic are recommended because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best mini dual voltage travel hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium

What is the best mini dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  • For drying fine or thin hair whilst on the go then a 1200 watt ceramic Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable small ionic blowdryer available to buy.
  • The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is compact enough to carry in a handbag because of it's 10.5oz body with folding handle and also has features reserved for larger blow dryers such as a tourmaline outlet which can emit infrared heat to protect from heat damage during styling for a glossier finish.

Both mini hair dryers are dual voltage when used in combination with a suitable plug adapter for a Prinicipe power outlet they will work in Principe and fold conveniently enough to be carried around during the day for styling on the go. Both have a 1.5m power cable, a 2 speed motor and include a concentrator attachment.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is the best travel hair dryer with a diffuser for Principe?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

What is the best travel hair dryer with a diffuser for Principe?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65 metre electric power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but is missing a cool shot feature.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a generous 1.82m electric power cord for more flexibility when drying with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter for cleaning. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it includes a cool shot option making it ideal for styling thicker hair.

Each ionic hair dryer includes both concentrator and diffuser attachments with powerful motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. Each dryer is lightweight and folds up to pack into carry-on luggage, only requiring a suitable cheap power adapter for Principe to fit into a Prinicipe power outlet.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best hair dryer for Principe?

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 Principe 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.

Principe power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Principe?

The residential voltage in Principe is 220 volts.

What is the electrical frequency used in a Prinicipe power outlet?

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

Which plug adapter will you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Principe?

Type C and F power outlets

Which plug adapter will you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Principe?

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

  • Plug Type C - You can identify the wall socket by two adjacent holes for live and neutral pins.
  • Plug Type F - The sunken round plug outlet (also called the type F power outlet) can be identified by the two 4.8mm adjacent holes for live and neutral pins, plus thin grounding clips at the top and bottom.

A recommended power adapter to bring for using a 220 volt hair dryer in Principe is a Type F plug adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Principe with a power adapter. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to see if you have to bring a power converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How should you change the voltage on a dual voltage hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have a switch which selects between two ranges of voltages although some hair dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from a Prinicipe power outlet.
  2. The dial or switch typically requires either a coin or screwdriver to change the hair dryer to the right voltage between a 220v-240v range or the 110v-120v range.
  3. Also, it is worth making a note of the two switch positions because the painted numbers can sometimes rub off on some models.

How do you use your dual voltage blow dryer in Principe?

  1. First ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or it works with a 220 volt power socket.
  2. If the hair dryer is dual voltage please make sure that it is set to operate within the 220-240V range. This is usually found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to turn.
  3. Plug your dryer into the power adapter for Principe, also plug in the power adapter into the Prinicipe power outlet.
  4. It's normal for a majority of dual voltage hair dryers operating within the 220-240V range to only work safely on their lowest setting; but the speed should still be sufficient for drying hair. Always check the manufacturers instructions to see if this rule is relevant for your model of dual voltage hair dryer to stop the risk of overheating.
  5. Your hair dryer is now ready to be used in Principe.
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, base or the handle. This location will 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 will change automatically, however other hair dryers will have a button which allows you to operate between different regions.

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

Travelling to Principe with a hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Principe have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Principe have hair dryers?

Depending on the hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer might be available in the hotel room, either packed in the bedroom cupboard, drawer or wardrobe, found in the bathroom or could potentially be a slower air hose variety.

If staying in cheaper hostels, hotels and motels a communal hair dryer could be offered at the reception but might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer availability you can either telephone your hotel in Principe or look on the hotel web site to find out what is available to guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are adequate but are normally basic models lacking a diffuser, notorious for slower air speeds and low heat. Those concerned with hygiene should check for burnt hair cuticles from other guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

Guests who are uncertain that a suitable or clean hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer or phone their hotel in Principe to check before travelling.  [2] [AD]

Is it better to bring a travel hair dryer or domestic hair dryer to Principe?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer rather than packing an existing domestic hair dryer to Principe as it ensures that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Prinicipe power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Principe). Travel hair dryers normally feature a collapsible handle and are much lighter which helps in reducing the size and weight when packed in luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer. Note that packing an expensive domestic hair dryer might place it at risk due to potential loss or damage in your luggage by airline baggage handlers in Principe. The cost involved in replacing or repairing an expensive quality hair dryer in Principe could outweigh the costs of purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before your trip .  [16] [AD]

Can I pack a blow dryer in my carry on?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I pack a blow dryer in my carry on?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying 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 Principe 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 avoiding a tangle of power cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping wires tightly around electronic items such as 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 knocks and drops during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Power converters for Principe

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

Voltage converter

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

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Principe, however a heavier and more expensive power converter converts the voltage of 220 volts from a Prinicipe power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

Can you use your hair dryer with a converter for Principe?

A suitable voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 220 volt power outlet used in Principe. Travellers wishing to bring their own hair dryer can use a power converter, however it might be more costly to purchase a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also, a travel hair dryer can be substantially lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suitable for packing. [7] [AD]

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

How to power a hair dryer in Principe using a Type C travel adapter.

  1. Check 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 don't continue because you could 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 operating the hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting to use in Principe, please refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. If the type of power outlet used in Principe won't accomodate the plug shape on your hair dryer you will need to use a Type C plug adapter [4]. The Type C plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries into a power outlet in Principe 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 supply.
  3. Insert the Type C plug adapter into the power outlet. You can recognise this plug supply by the 2 round holes next to each other for live and neutral pins.
  4. After that plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Prinicipe power outlet. The hair dryer can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Principe using a type C power adapter

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

Instructions showing how to use a hair dryer in Principe using a two pinned Type F power adapter.

  1. Check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power outlet - if it doesn't then don't continue because you could damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage hair dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting to use in Principe - consult the manufacturers instructions for more information on how to do this.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Principe you will need to use a Type F plug adapter [6]. This Type F plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet found in Principe 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 supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type F plug adapter into the wall outlet. The circular wall outlet can be recognised by two circular adjacent holes next to each other where the live and neutral pins slide into, plus two metal grounding clips above and below.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Prinicipe power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on the hair dryer for use in Principe. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Principe using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - wikipedia entry about Principe
  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. 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. 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.