How do I use a hair dryer in Botswana?
Can I use my hair dryer in Botswana?
Check that your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Botswana:
- If your hair dryer can run on 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you'll only need to bring the correct power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit.
If not then either:
- Use a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] - you might still need the correct power adapter for Botswana but these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for travelling. See our comprehensive guide to the best travel blow driers which work work with a Botswana power outlet, nine tips for buying a new travel blow dryer and a comparison of six of the best dual voltage blow dryers.
- Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Botswana power outlet, however this is noticeably bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer 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 Botswana, so check that the power converter has the correct power adapter for Botswana otherwise you will need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Be aware that your own personal hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you could risk potential damage in a suitcase. [9] [AD]
Using a hair dryer in Botswana
Will my hair dryer work in Botswana?
This will depend on if your hair dryer can handle the 230 volt power outlets in Botswana. 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 should be able to use it in Botswana. If not then you will need to consider bringing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2], read our section on can you use a voltage converter to use your domestic hair dryer in Botswana for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [9] [AD]
Best travel hair dryers for Botswana
What to look for when buying a blow dryer
When choosing the best travel hair dryer for Botswana look for a strong but light dual-voltage dryer which works with a 230 volt Botswana power outlet power outlet, includes a folding handle, long cable and an ALCI safety plug. When drying thicker hair buy a stronger 1600+ watt dryer and included diffuser.
9 things to look for when purchasing a blow dryer
- It might be more convenient to buy a new dryer that is supplied with both a diffuser and concentrator instead of scouring shops to look for expensive 3rd party attachments which fit the unique dryer barrel securely.
- Depending on your hotel room you might find they have a fixed mirror positioned too far away from a convenient power outlet which could make it difficult to style hair, therefore when buying a blow dryer look for the longest power cord available.
- Suitable hair dryers will give control of the speed and temperature with two options, lower temperatures with slower speeds reduce damage to your hair whilst faster hotter speeds will dry thicker wet hair faster.
- If you have thicker or curlier hair then you might require a travel hair dryer which has a more powerful motor - a high wattage ceramic dryer that includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby preventing damage.
- Safe travel hair dryers will include an ALCI safety plug which reduces the danger of the motor overloading and starting fires; these can be recognised by the two 'reset' and 'test' buttons on the plug.
- Try to look for a lightweight travel hair dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, dryers which have a handle which folds mean more room to pack other items.
- Don't be tempted to just get the cheapest travel hair dryer available; as well as safety issues there is a greater chance that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to a poor build.
- Modern blow dryers include a cool shot button for quickly cooling hair down after drying to hold in the style but this option lacks in smaller models.
- In order to function in Botswana the travel hair dryer has to be dual voltage.
What is the best folding dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot for Botswana?
- With a strong two speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features a cool shot setting which can will quickly cool down hair.
- The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has a cool shot button, a tourmaline ceramic air outlet for negative ions resulting in faster and safer styling, 2 heat settings, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cable and includes a concentrator attachment.
Each model is folding, has an ALCI power plug to prevent overloading and support dual voltage making both ideal for travel to Botswana in carry on luggage if used along with a power adapter for a Botswana power outlet. [10] [10] [11] [AD]
What is the best blow dryer for thick hair?
Thicker hair takes longer to dry and will be difficult to dry without hair turning frizzy. The best option is an ionic hair dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Both an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic are 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. [12] [13] [AD]
Which is a good mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage?
- If you want to dry fine or thin hair on the go then a 1200 watt ceramic Conair MiniPRO is the best value mini ionic blow dryer available to buy.
- A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is small and lightweight enough to transport in a handbag due to it's 10.5oz body and folding handle and also includes options reserved for larger blow dryers such as a removable filter and a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect from heat damage during styling resulting in a shinier finish.
Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used in combination with the right power adapter for a Botswana power outlet they will work in Botswana and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried for drying on the go. They have a twin speed motor, have a 1.5m electric power cord and include a concentrator. [14] [14] [15] [AD]
Which is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser for Botswana?
- A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65 metre power cable, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser but doesn't have a cool shot button.
- The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a long 1.82m power cord for more freedom when drying with an ALCI power plug and removable filter to clean easily. It also has a powerful 1875 watt motor including a cool shot button making it suitable for styling thicker hair.
Both ionic travel hair dryers include a diffuser and concentrator with powerful motors to make them the best travel hair dryers for thick hair. Both only require a suitable plug adapter for Botswana to fit into a Botswana power outlet, they are lightweight and fold up to fit in carry-on luggage. [12] [13] [13] [AD]
Best hair dryers for travel
Which is the best hair dryer to buy for Botswana?
Conair MiniPRO |
BaByliss PRO |
Conair Compact |
Berta Folding |
X5 Superlite |
Hot Tools 1044 |
|
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Class | Mini | Compact | Compact with diffuser | |||
Works in Botswana | 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.
Botswana power outlets and plug sockets
What is the voltage in Botswana?
The normal voltage in Botswana is 230 volts.
What is the frequency used with a Botswana power outlet?
The frequency from a Botswana power outlet is 50Hz. [16]
Which power adapter do you need when using a hair dryer in Botswana?
There are three different types of power outlets used in Botswana, these are type G, D and M with the primary power outlets being type G:
- Plug Type D - This wall outlet, technically known as a type D power outlet, looks like three circular holes in a triangle pattern.
- Plug Type G - You can identify this power socket by the 3 vertical rectangular holes with shutters forming a triangle configuration for live, neutral and earth pins.
- Plug Type M - This power socket, technically called a type M power outlet, looks like three holes forming a triangular shape for live, neutral and ground pins.
A suitable travel adapter to bring when using a 230 volt hair dryer in Botswana is a Type G power adapter; read the step-by-step instructions below for full details of using a hair dryer in Botswana. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to bring a voltage converter. [6] [17] [AD]
Dual voltage hair dryers
How can you use a dual voltage blow dryer in Botswana?
- Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or that it will work with a 230 volt power socket.
- If your hair dryer is dual voltage then ensure that it is switched to the 220-240 volt range. The switch is usually found on the base or handle of the blow dryer and requires a coin or screwdriver to switch.
- Plug the dryer into the correct power adapter for Botswana, also plug in the power adapter into the Botswana power outlet.
- It is common on a majority of travel hair dryer models operating in the 220-240v range to only work safely on their lowest setting - but the speed and temperature should be adequate enough for drying hair. Always check the manufacturers guidelines to see if this rule is relevant for your model of dryer to prevent the risk of overheating.
- Your dryer can now be operated in Botswana.
How can I switch a dual voltage travel hair dryer?
- Most models of dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which selects between 2 sets of voltages however some hair dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Botswana.
- This dial or switch will typically require a coin or screwdriver to set the dryer to the right voltage between the 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
- Also, it's worth noting down the 2 switch positions as the painted numbers can sometimes rub off on some models of hair dryer.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?
A simple method to tell if your hair dryer will handle dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the base, handle or plug of the hair dryer. This location will vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer, it should also state on the box. Some dual voltage models might change automatically but other hair dryers will feature a switch which allows you to change between different regions depending on which country you are in.
- Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Botswana then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Botswana 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 230 volts used in a Botswana power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Botswana.
- Dual voltage will typically say a large voltage range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Botswana or any other country if these numbers are shown.
Travelling to Botswana with a hair dryer
Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Botswana?
Depending on the 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 drawer, wardrobe or cupboard, found in the bathroom or could potentially be of a slower air hose variety. In cheaper motels, hostels and hotels a communal hair dryer could be available at the reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer availability then either check on the booking web site or telephone your hotel in Botswana to find out if a suitable hairdryer available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are usable but normally rudimentary models with no diffuser, notorious for low heat and providing slower air speeds. Those worried about hygiene might want to check for burnt hair from previous guests on a communal hair dryer as room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.
For travellers who are uncertain that a suitable or germ-free hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer. [18] [AD]
Should I bring a travel hair dryer or domestic hair dryer to Botswana?
Packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to bringing an existing hair dryer to Botswana as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Botswana power outlet (provided that you use the correct power adapter for Botswana). Certain models of travel hair dryer will normally feature a folding handle and are lighter which helps reduce the size and weight in luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer. Please be aware that packing your expensive domestic blow dryer could put it at risk due to potential loss or damage in your suitcase by an airline baggage handler. The costs involved in replacing an expensive specialised hair dryer in Botswana might overshadow the cost of buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off . [19] [AD]
Is a hair dryer allowed onboard a plane to Botswana?
According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA recommends that you should verify that your airline which is flying you to Botswana will allow hair dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.
Packing your hair dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible when going through airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cords tightly around electronic items). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive hair 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 drops during your journey. [19] [20] [21] [AD]
Power converters for Botswana
What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter for Botswana?
A lightweight, cheap and small power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Botswana, whereas a heavier and more expensive power converter converts a 230 volt Botswana power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer. [9] [AD]
Do you need a voltage converter to use a hair dryer in Botswana?
The correct model of voltage transformer (or power converter) allows your hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 230 volt power outlet used in Botswana. Travellers who want to bring their existing domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, but it might be more costly to buy a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. A power converter is significantly heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suited for packing. [9] [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Botswana using a type D power adapter
How to use a hair dryer in Botswana with a Type D power adapter.
- Check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet; but if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions as you could 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 you have set it to accept 230 volts for use in Botswana - please refer to the user guide to find out how to do this.
- You will need to buy a Type D power adapter [4] if the shape of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the power outlet which is used in Botswana. This Type D power adapter will help convert plugs from other countries for use in an electrical outlet found in Botswana simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
- First you'll need to insert the Type D power adapter into the wall outlet. The power supply, sometimes known as the Type D power outlet [3], looks like three holes in a triangular pattern.
- Next plug in your hair dryer into the Type D power adapter.
- Switch on the Botswana power outlet. You can now switch on the blow dryer for use in Botswana. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Botswana using a type G power adapter
Instructions on how to power your hair dryer in Botswana using a 3 prong Type G travel charger.
- Please ensure that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply but if not then do not continue because you may create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Travel blow dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting, refer to the owners manual for more details on how to do this.
- If the type of power outlet which is used in Botswana doesn't take the plug shape on your hair dryer you'll need to bring a Type G power adapter [6]. The plug adapter will adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet found in Botswana by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
- Plug in the Type G power adapter in the Botswana power outlet. You can identify this power outlet by the 3 vertical rectangular holes with shutters forming a triangle configuration for live, neutral and earth pins.
- Plug in the hair dryer into the Type G power adapter.
- Turn on the Botswana power outlet.
- Your hair dryer can now be used in Botswana. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Botswana using a type M power adapter
How to use a hair dryer in Botswana with a Type M power adapter.
- Make sure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply; if it doesn't then do not proceed because you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a travel hair dryer ensure the switch is set to accept 230 volts to use in Botswana; please consult the instructions to find out where the switch is located.
- If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Botswana you will need to buy a Type M power adapter [8]. This Type M power adapter is designed to fit plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet in Botswana simply 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 230 volt outlet.
- Start by taking the Type M power adapter and inserting it into the wall outlet. You can identify the plug supply by three large holes in a triangular pattern.
- Next plug in your hair dryer into the Type M power adapter.
- Switch on the Botswana power outlet. You can now switch on the blow dryer for use in Botswana. [AD]
See also
External links
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- Wikipedia - Botswana country Wiki page
- Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
- iec.ch - Type D power outlet
- Type D power adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type D electrical adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka..
- iec.ch - Type G power outlet
- Type G power adapter - An earthed BS 1363 certified UK power adapter, featuring a fuse to protect against overload and consequent fire risks. Ideal for use in over 50 countries, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and also in international cities like Dubai and Hong Kong..
- iec.ch - Type M power outlet
- Type M power adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type M travel adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in African countries like South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Swaziland, as well as in parts of India..
- Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
- Berta 1875W Folding Hair Dryer Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Negative Ions Travel Dryer - This hair dryer features two speed and heat settings, dual-voltage and a foldable handle whilst equipped with an ALCI plug to help prevent electric shock..
- Conair 1875 Watt Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage - This travel-ready hair dryer uses a high 1875-watt motor for efficient and rapid hair drying. Smart voltage technology adjusts to foreign voltage, maintaining heat and speed settings for convenience..
- X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - This hair dryer boasts a 1600-watt motor intended for efficient hair drying. The long 1.65-meter cable provides an extra layer of convenience for users who require mobility during use..
- Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - The appliance integrates a 1875-watt motor, targeting quick and effective hair drying. The folding handle is intended for easier storage and transport..
- BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - With dual heat and speed settings, the device aims to cater to a variety of hair types. Its dual voltage capability, folding handle and lightweight design make it suited for international travel..
- Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers..
- Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
- iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
- 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.
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