How do I use my hair dryer in Burundi?

Burundian power outlet

Can I use my blow dryer in Burundi?

Check that your hair dryer can work in Burundi:

  • If your hair dryer can run on 220 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can tell) then you will only need to bring the correct power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 220 volt Burundian power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier 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 types of power outlet used in Burundi, so please check that the power converter comes with a power adapter for Burundi otherwise you will also need to purchase another power adapter. Be aware that your personal hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you risk potential damage in your luggage. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 220 volts you run a risk of an electrical fire hazard, a blown fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Prior to using your hair dryer in Burundi please read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Burundi

Will my hair dryer work in Burundi?

It depends on if your hair dryer can handle the 220 volts which are used in Burundi:

Best travel hair dryers for Burundi

What to look for when choosing a blow dryer

Bundled concentrator and diffuser attachments

What to look for when choosing a blow dryer

When looking for the best travel hair dryer choose a strong but light dual-voltage model that will operate with a 220 volt Burundian power outlet power outlet with ALCI safety plug, a folding handle and long power cable. For drying thick hair buy one which includes a diffuser that uses a stronger 1600+ watt dryer.

What should you look for when buying a travel hair dryer?

  1. Suitable hair dryers for styling should give control of both speed and temperature with two options - hotter faster speeds will quickly dry thicker wet hair and a lower temperature with a slower speed should prevent damage to hair.
  2. Try looking for a lighter travel hair dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers with a folding handle will mean more space to pack other items.
  3. It could be more convenient and cheaper buying a new dryer which is supplied with a diffuser and concentrator from the manufacturer instead of scouring shops to look for expensive third party attachments which fit the dryer barrel size securely.
  4. Depending on your hotel room there might be a wall mirror positioned too far away from a power outlet making it awkward to dry hair, therefore when buying a hair dryer search for the longest power cord available.
  5. A modern travel dryer include a 'cool shot' button for rapidly cooling down the hair after drying to hold the style but this option is missing in smaller models.
  6. Your hair dryer needs to support dual voltage to operate with a 220 volt Burundian power outlet.
  7. If you have thicker hair then you may require a hair dryer with a stronger motor. A higher wattage ceramic dryer that includes a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby preventing damage.
  8. The safest travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will reduce the danger of overloading the motor leading to fires; you can idenfity models with the two test and reset buttons.
  9. Buying the cheapest hair dryer could be risky, as well as issues with safety there is a greater chance that the dryer could fail during your trip abroad due to a flimsy construction.
What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer for Burundi?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator attachment

What is the smallest folding dual voltage hair dryer for Burundi?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable mini ionic hairdryer available on the market, this ceramic 1200 watt dryer is suitable for quickly drying fine or thin hair whilst on the go.
  • A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is compact enough to carry in a purse because of a 10.5 ounce body and folding handle that also has features found on larger dryers such as a removable filter and a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage during use for a glossy finish.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used in combination with a suitable power adapter for a Burundian power outlet they should work in Burundi folding conveniently enough to be carried for styling on the go. They include a concentrator, have 1.5 metre electric power cords and a two speed motor.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is the best blow dryer for thick or curly hair?

Thick hair can take much longer to dry and might be difficult to dry without hair turning frizzy, the best option for this type of hair is an ionic dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are able to dry and manage hair smoothly. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer will be suitable 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]

Which is the best compact travel hair dryer?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with attached concentrator

Which is the best compact travel hair dryer?

  • A Conair Compact Styler has a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and includes cool shot which can will quickly cool down hair which gives it a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has a cool shot setting, a tourmaline ceramic air outlet meaning safer styling, 2 heat settings, a longer 1.8m power cord and also includes a concentrator.

Both models fold, include an ALCI power plug which prevents overloading and has dual voltage making both ideal for travel to Burundi in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for a Burundian power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser

What is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65m power cable, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however doesn't have a cool shot feature.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a long 1.82 metre power cable for greater flexibility when drying with an ALCI power plug and removable filter to clean. It uses a powerful 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it more suited for drying thick hair.

Both ionic hair dryers include both diffuser and concentrator with powerful motors to make them the best hair dryers suitable for thick hair. They are lightweight and will fold up to pack in a carry-on bag, only requiring a cheap power adapter for Burundi to work with a Burundian power outlet.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best hair dryer to buy for Burundi?

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.co.uk/BaByliss-Travel-2000-Hair-Dryer/dp/B0056FXFRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1520000711&sr=8-1&keywords=BaBylissPRO+Tourmaline+Titanium+Travel+Dryer&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=b63332fd20a821dec0b5e56af0330da8
Conair
Compact
https://www.amazon.co.uk/BaByliss-Travel-2000-Hair-Dryer/dp/B0056FXFRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1532458776&sr=8-1&keywords=Conair+dual+voltage+hair+dryer&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=f9cccd664854ebe2be03a43f6a0c7cce&language=en_GB
Berta
Folding
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Conair-Group-Ltd-5549U-TRESemme/dp/B00I4R4A84?crid=3P4NIYAG2C5JL&keywords=Ceramic+tourmaline+hair+dryer+concentrator+dual+voltage&qid=1695044687&sprefix=ceramic+tourmaline+hair+dryer+concentrator+dual+voltage%2Caps%2C65&sr=8-8&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=c6cca6f1cdf99277aafe116a9bf0d0ba&language=en_GB&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
X5
Superlite
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Red-Hot-37070-Professional-Settings/dp/B01G3E9R46?dchild=1&keywords=X5%2BSuperlite%2B1600W%2BDual%2BVoltage%2BCeramic%2BIonic%2BTravel%2BDryer&qid=1623853478&sr=8-9&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=dac34b2236e4574360f73c2fbe82110d&language=en_GB&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Hot Tools
1044
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Compact-Foldable-Lightweight-Portable-Technology/dp/B07HTWRMW5?crid=GOV3SFXX8LUZ&keywords=1875+watt+travel+dryer+with+folding+handle+and+dual+voltage&qid=1668535844&sprefix=1875+watt+travel+dryer+with+folding+handle+and+dual+votage%2Caps%2C49&sr=8-42&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=c1c76abbfb0ab79c7b377ec225918f66&language=en_GB&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Class Mini Compact Compact with diffuser
Works in Burundi 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.

Burundi power outlets and plug sockets

What frequency is used in Burundi?

The frequency in a Burundian power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]

What voltage is used in Burundi?

The standard voltage used in Burundi is 220 volts.

Which travel adapter do you need when using a hair dryer in Burundi?

Type C and E power outlets

Which travel adapter do you need when using a hair dryer in Burundi?

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

  • Plug Type C - You can recognise the wall socket by the two circular adjacent holes for live and neutral pins.
  • Plug Type E - The recessed round plug socket (technically known as a CEE 7/7 plug) can be identified by the two 4.8mm holes 19mm adjacent to each other and a single metal grounding pin protruding in the top forming a triangle pattern.

A recommended power adapter to bring to use a 220 volt hair dryer in Burundi is a Type E plug adapter - read the step-by-step guide below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Burundi. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also need to bring a power converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How do I use my dual voltage hair dryer in Burundi?

  1. Ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or it will operate with a 220 volt power outlet.
  2. If the dryer supports dual voltage then make sure that it is set to work in the 220-240v range. This is normally found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to turn.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the power adapter for Burundi and then plug in the power adapter into the Burundian power outlet.
  4. It is normal for a majority of dual voltage hair dryers operating within the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on their lowest speed setting - however the temperature should still be sufficient for drying hair. Please check the hair dryer guidelines to find out if this rule is appropriate for your model of dual voltage hair dryer to stop the risk of overheating.
  5. The dryer is now ready to be used with a Burundian power outlet.

How should you switch the voltage on a travel hair dryer?

  1. Most brands of dual voltage hair dryers have some type of dial which changes between 2 sets of voltages however some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from a Burundian power outlet.
  2. The switch or dial normally requires a small coin or screwdriver to change the hair dryer to the correct voltage between a 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
  3. Also it's worth noting down the two switch positions as the painted numbers can occasionally fade on some models.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

One method 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 handle. This location will vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer and could also be written on the box. Some dual voltage models can change automatically but other hair dryer models will have a button or switch which allows you to toggle between different regions depending on which country you are in.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Burundi then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Burundian 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 220 volts used in a Burundian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Burundi.
  • A large voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Burundi or any other country.

Travelling to Burundi with a hair dryer

Is it safer to bring a domestic blow dryer or a travel hair dryer to Burundi?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to bringing an existing domestic hair dryer to Burundi (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Burundian power outlet (as long as you bring the correct power adapter for Burundi). Travel hair dryers typically feature a collapsible handle and will be lighter, this helps in reducing the size and weight when packed in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer.

Please note that packing an expensive domestic hair dryer might place it at risk due to potential damage or loss in transit by airline baggage handlers in Burundi. The inconvenience and costs involved in replacing an expensive specialised domestic hair dryer in Burundi could outweigh the costs of buying a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before your trip .  [16] [AD]

Do hotel rooms in Burundi have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Burundi have hair dryers?

This will all depend on the individual hotel and the class of the accommodation. Hotel hair dryers are normally found in the bathroom, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or could be located in the bedroom wardrobe, drawer or cupboard. If staying in cheaper hostels, motels and hotels a communal hair dryer could be offered at reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer availability you can either call ahead to the hotel in Burundi or look on the hotel web site to find out if a suitable hairdryer available for guests. Hair dryers in hotels are usable but normally basic models lacking a diffuser and notorious for low heat and slower air speeds. Those concerned with hygiene should remove any grime from previous guests on a communal hair dryer as room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

Guests who aren't sure that a suitable and germ-free hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer or call ahead to the hotel in Burundi to check first.  [2] [AD]

Can I take a hair dryer in my carry on hand luggage?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I take a hair dryer in my carry on hand luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also recommends that you should check that the airline that is taking you to Burundi 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 by airport security, 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). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to bring hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against drops and knocks during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Power converters for Burundi

What is the difference between a power converter and a power adapter?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a power converter and a power adapter?

A cheap, small and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Burundi, whereas a more expensive and heavier power converter will transform a 220 volt Burundian power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

Do I need a power converter in Burundi to use a hair dryer?

A voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 220 volt power outlet used in Burundi. Travellers who want to use their existing hair dryer can use a power converter, but it might be more costly to purchase a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also, a power converter is substantially bulkier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suited for packing. [7] [AD]

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

A guide on how to use your hair dryer in Burundi with a two prong Type C power charger.

  1. Check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 220 volt power supply; if not then don't continue because you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a travel hair dryer make sure you have set it to the 220 volt setting; please consult the owners manual for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Burundi you'll need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4]. This Type C plug adapter helps convert different plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet found in Burundi simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type C plug adapter in the wall outlet. This ungrounded power outlet, also known as the Type C power outlet [3] or Europlug, can be recognised by the 2 round holes adjacent to each other where the twin plug outlet pins sit.
  4. After that plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Burundian power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be used in Burundi. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Burundi using a type C power adapter

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

How to power a hair dryer in Burundi using a Type E travel adapter.

  1. Please ensure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power outlet but if not then do not proceed because you could damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Some dual voltage blow dryers might typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure the switch is set to accept 220 volts for use in Burundi - refer to the user guide to find out how to do this.
  2. You will need to use a Type E plug adapter [6] if the type of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the plug outlet which is used in Burundi. This plug adapter helps adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet used in Burundi by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Plug in the Type E plug adapter into the Burundian power outlet. You can recognise the wall outlet by the two large round adjacent holes where the twin pins go along with one long metal earth pin protruding in the top to form a triangle configuration.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type E plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Burundian power outlet.
  6. Your hair dryer is ready for use in Burundi. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Burundi using a type E power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia web page about Burundi
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  4. Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
  5. iec.ch - Type E power outlet
  6. Type E plug adapter - A CEE 7/5 socket and CEE 7/6 plug compliant Type E adapter designed with a focus on safety, featuring two round pins and an earthing hole. Ideal for use in the France, Belgium, Poland and several African nations..
  7. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
  8. 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..
  9. 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..
  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. 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. 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.