Which travel adapter will I need to use a hair dryer in Albania?
Will my blowdryer work in Albania?
First check your hair dryer can work in Albania:
- If your hair dryer can run on 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you'll only need to bring an appropriate power adapter listed below if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit.
If not then you can either:
- Use a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] - you might still need a power adapter for Albania however these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for the rigors of travel. Before purchasing read nine tips for buying a travel hair dryer, six of the best travel blow dryers compared and guide to the best dual voltage hair driers guaranteed to work in an Albanian power outlet.
- Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with an 230 volt Albanian power outlet, however this is significantly heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter changes the voltage but won't change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of wall outlet used in Albania, so check that the voltage transformer includes the right power adapter for Albania otherwise you will also need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Note - your own domestic hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you risk damage in a suitcase. [7] [AD]
Using a hair dryer in Albania
Will my hair dryer work in Albania?
That depends on if your hair dryer can operate using the 230 volts used in Albania. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to handle 230 volts and you have the correct plug adapter then you can use your hair dryer in Albania. If not then you will need to consider using either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter. Read our guide on will a power converter work with your domestic hair dryer in Albania for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]
Best travel hair dryers for Albania
What to look for when choosing a travel hair dryer for Albania
When choosing the best hair dryer look for a strong but lightweight dual-voltage dryer that will operate with an 230 volt Albanian power outlet power outlet with a folding handle, a safety plug and a long cord. For drying thicker hair buy a model which includes a bundled diffuser that uses a higher 1600+ watt dryer.
What should I look for when purchasing a travel blow dryer?
- The most suitable hair dryers let you to change the temperature and speed with two options; a faster hotter speed will quickly dry thicker hair whereas a slower speed with a lower temperature can prevent damage to hair.
- Rather than looking for expensive third party attachments it might be cheaper to buy a new hair dryer that includes a diffuser and concentrator from the manufacturer.
- Try to look for lightweight travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers which have a handle which folds mean more space to pack other items.
- Depending on your accommodation in Albania you could find they have a fixed mirror positioned some distance away from a outlet making it cumbersome to style hair, therefore shop for the model with the longest power cord possible.
- Thicker hair might need a hair dryer which has a more powerful motor - a higher wattage ceramic model that has a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby avoiding damage.
- A modern hair dryer could feature a 'cool shot' button for rapidly cooling hair down after drying to hold in the style but this option is missing in more compact models.
- Safe travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which reduces the risk of overloading leading to starting an electrical fire; you can idenfity these with the 2 'test' and 'reset' switches found on the plug.
- Your travel hair dryer has to support dual voltage to operate in Albania.
- Don't risk getting the cheapest travel hair dryer available - as well as issues with safety there is also a greater chance that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to a poor build.
Which is the best hair dryer for thick curly hair?
Thicker hair can take much longer to dry and will be hard to dry without hair going frizzy, the best option for thicker hair will be an ionic blow dryer and for curly thick hair we suggest a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly without frizz. Both the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are suitable because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers, avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough. [8] [9] [AD]
What is the best dual voltage hair dryer with cool shot?
- Using a strong 2 speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler includes cool shot that can will quickly cool down hair.
- The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, uses a ceramic tourmaline air outlet for negative ions meaning faster styling, two heat options, a longer 1.8m power cord and comes with a concentrator attachment.
Both models fold, have an ALCI power plug which prevents power overloads and support dual voltage making both ideal for travel to Albania in carry on luggage if used with a power adapter for an Albanian power outlet. [10] [10] [11] [AD]
Which is the best small dual voltage hair dryer for Albania?
- For drying thin or fine hair whilst on the go then a ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable small ionic hair dryer available to buy.
- For a dryer which is small and lightweight enough to carry in a purse then a 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage this dryer has options normally found with larger models.
Both mini hair dryers support dual voltage and when used along with a suitable power adapter for an Albanian power outlet they will work in Albania and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried around all day for styling on the go. Both have a 1.5 metre power cable, have a two speed motor and include a concentrator attachment. [12] [12] [13] [AD]
Which is the best dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser?
- A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65 metre power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however is missing cool shot.
- The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a longer 1.82m electric power cable for greater flexibility when styling with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter to clean easily. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it also has cool shot making it more suited for styling thick hair.
Each ionic travel hair dryer includes a concentrator and diffuser with powerful motors to make them the most suitable hair dryers for thick hair. Both require a cheap plug adapter for Albania to work with an Albanian power outlet, each dryer is light and folds up to fit into a carry-on bag. [8] [9] [9] [AD]
Best hair dryers for travel
Which is the best blow dryer for Albania?
Conair MiniPRO |
BaByliss PRO |
Conair Compact |
Berta Folding |
X5 Superlite |
Hot Tools 1044 |
|
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Class | Mini | Compact | Compact with diffuser | |||
Works in Albania | 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.
Albania power outlets and plug sockets
What is the frequency used in Albania?
The frequency of the current in an Albanian power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]
What voltage is used in Albania?
The common residential voltage used in Albania is 230 volts.
Which plug adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Albania?
There are two types of power outlets used in Albania, types F and C with the primary power outlets being type F:
- Plug Type C - This power socket, technically known as a Europlug, is recognised by the two round holes next to each other for live and neutral.
- Plug Type F - You can recognise the power outlet by two 4.8mm circular adjacent holes next to each other along with a pair of two thin grounding clips on the top and bottom.
A recommended travel adapter to bring for using a 230 volt hair dryer in Albania is a Type F power adapter - read the simple instructions below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Albania. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to use a voltage converter. [6] [15] [AD]
Dual voltage hair dryers
How can I use a dual voltage hair dryer in Albania?
- First check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or it will work with a 230 volt power socket.
- 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.
- Plug your hair dryer into the correct power adapter for Albania, also plug in the power adapter into the Albanian power outlet.
- 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 overheating.
- The hair dryer is now ready to operate in Albania.
How can you switch the voltage on a dual voltage hair dryer?
- Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which selects between 2 types of voltages although some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from an Albanian power outlet.
- This dial or switch will typically require either a screwdriver or coin to change the dryer to the correct voltage between the 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
- In addition to changing this over it is worth making a note of both switch positions as the painted numbers can sometimes fade on certain models.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?
An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer supports dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the base, handle or plug of your hair dryer. The location will vary depending on the make or model of your hair dryer, it should also be written in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models can change automatically but other hair dryers will feature a switch which allows you to operate between different voltage ranges depending on which country you are visiting.
- A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Albania then you should be able to use your hair dryer with an Albanian 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 230 volts used in an Albanian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Albania.
- A large range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Albania or any other country.
Travelling to Albania with a hair dryer
Do hotel rooms in Albania 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 hotel room, either packed in a bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer, found on a bathroom wall unit or could potentially be of a slower air hose type. When staying in cheaper hotels, hostels and motels a shared hair dryer could be offered at reception but could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer availability you should either call ahead to the hotel in Albania or look on the booking web site to find out what is available for guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are adequate but normally basic models with no diffuser, notorious for low heat and slow air speeds. For those concerned with hygiene might want to check for grime from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.
For guests who don't want to take a chance that a suitable or sanitary hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer. [16] [AD]
Is it better to bring a domestic blow dryer or a travel hair dryer to Albania?
It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to packing your existing domestic blow dryer to Albania as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with an Albanian power outlet (provided that you bring the correct power adapter for Albania). A travel hair dryer will typically feature a collapsible handle and are lighter which will help reduce the size and weight when packed in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer. Please be aware that packing your expensive domestic hair dryer could place it at risk because of potential loss or damage in transit by an airline baggage handler. The inconvenience and costs of repairing an expensive quality domestic hair dryer in Albania could overshadow the cost of buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before your trip . [17] [AD]
Is a blowdryer allowed on a flight in Albania?
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 US. The TSA suggests that you should check that the airline who is flying you to Albania will allow hair 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 when going through airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of power wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping wires tightly around electronic items such as hair dryers). If you intend to bring 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. [17] [18] [19] [AD]
Power converters for Albania
What is the difference between a power adapter and a voltage converter?
An expensive and bulky power converter transforms the voltage of 230 volts from an Albanian power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, but a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in Albania. [7] [AD]
Do I need a voltage converter in Albania to use a hair dryer?
A power converter (or voltage transformer) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 230 volt power outlet used in Albania. Travellers who want to bring along their existing hair dryer can use a power converter, however it could be more expensive to purchase a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also worth noting, a power converter is substantially bulkier and heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suited for travelling. [7] [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Albania using a type C power adapter
A page on how to power a hair dryer in Albania with a two pin Type C travel adapter.
- Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply but if not then do not continue as you might damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to accept 230 volts, refer to the user guide to find out where the switch is found.
- If the shape of the power outlet used in Albania isn't the same shape as the plug shape on your hair dryer you'll need to buy a Type C power adapter [4]. The Type C power adapter will convert plugs on appliances from other countries for a power outlet found in Albania by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
- Insert the Type C power adapter in the Albanian power outlet. You can recognise the power supply by two circular adjacent holes next to each other.
- Then plug in the hair dryer into the Type C power adapter.
- Turn on the Albanian power outlet.
- You can now turn on your hair dryer to use in Albania. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Albania using a type F power adapter
How to use your hair dryer in Albania using a Type F power adapter.
- Check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply but if not then don't attempt these instructions as you could create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer ensure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting - please refer to the instructions to find out how to do this.
- You will need to bring a Type F power adapter [6] if the shape of the power outlet which is used in Albania doesn't accomodate the plug of your hair dryer. The Type F power adapter will help convert plugs on appliances from other countries for a power outlet used in Albania by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
- Firstly you'll need to plug in the Type F power adapter in the wall outlet. You can identify the plug outlet by the two adjacent holes where the twin plug outlet pins go and thin metal grounding clips above and below.
- Plug in your hair dryer into the Type F power adapter.
- Switch on the Albanian power outlet. You can now turn on your hair dryer to use in Albania. [AD]
See also
- What can I connect to an Albanian power outlet?
- What can I connect to a hair dryer?
- Can I charge my phone in Europe?
- Can I use my phone in Europe?
- Do I need a converter for my phone in Europe?
- Will my phone charger work in Europe?
- What are the dangers of using the wrong mobile phone charger in Europe?
- How do I charge a phone in Europe?
- How to call the US from Europe
- What plug sockets are found in Europe?
- Will my hairdryer work in Europe?
- Can I use my hair straighteners in Europe?
- What is the cheapest airport to fly into in Europe?
- How to travel Europe by train
- How much is a Europass?
- Can I buy Rail Europe tickets at the station?
- Can I buy a rail pass in Europe?
- Can I buy Eurostar tickets on the station?
- Where can I buy Euros from?
- What denominations do Euros come in?
- Can I buy Euros at any bank?
- How do I convert dollars to Euros?
- Can I buy Euros with a credit card?
- Does Sweden use the Euro?
- Does the United Kingdom use the Euro?
- Does Denmark use the Euro?
- How long can an American stay in Europe for?
- Which countries are in the Schengen Area?
- What is the most spoken language in Europe?
- How many different languages are spoken in Europe?
- How many countries are there in Europe?
- What countries are in Eastern Europe?
- What countries are in Western Europe?
- What is Northern Europe?
- What countries are not in the European Union?
External links
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- Wikipedia - Albanian country Wikipedia page
- Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
- iec.ch - Type C power outlet
- Type C power 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 F power outlet
- Type F power 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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..
- 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 -
- Dual voltage travel hair dryer - Features for a travel hair dryer include a foldable handle for easy packing, dual voltage for international use, and multiple heat and speed settings to accommodate different hair types..
- Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
- tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
- Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.