Using a hair dryer in Bolivia

Bolivian power outlet

Can I use my hairdryer in Bolivia?

First check that your hair dryer can work in Bolivia:

  • If your hair dryer can run on 115 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can tell) then you will only need to bring a suitable power adapter listed below if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit in the outlet.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 115 volt Bolivian power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but not the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of wall outlet used in Bolivia, therefore check that your power converter includes the correct power adapter for Bolivia otherwise you will also need to purchase another power adapter. Also worth noting that your own domestic hair dryer might not be suited for travel and you could risk potential damage in your luggage. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle the 115 volts used in Bolivia you run a risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or a blown fuse. Before attempting to use your hair dryer in Bolivia read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Bolivia

Will my hair dryer work in Bolivia?

This will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to handle the 115 volts used in Bolivia:

Best travel hair dryers for Bolivia

How to choose the best blow dryer

Dual voltage switch on travel hair dryer

How to choose the best blow dryer

When looking for the best travel hair dryer for Bolivia choose a sturdy but lightweight dual voltage dryer that will work with a 115 volt Bolivian power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, ALCI safety plug and a long cable. When drying thicker hair buy one which includes a diffuser that has a stronger 1600+ watt motor.

What to look for when buying a travel hair dryer?

  1. Look for lighter travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models with folding handles will mean more space for packing other items.
  2. The cool shot button on a modern travel dryer can quickly cool hair down after drying to hold the style but this feature is missing in smaller or cheaper models.
  3. Ideal hair dryers for styling will let you to control the temperature and speed with low and high options, a slower speed with a lower temperature should reduce damage to hair whilst hotter faster speeds will dry thicker wet hair quicker.
  4. Your travel hair dryer needs to be dual voltage in order to work in Bolivia.
  5. Buying the cheapest travel hair dryer could be risky; as well as issues with safety there is a greater risk that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to cheaper components.
  6. It might be cheaper to buy a dryer which is supplied with a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer rather than scouring stores looking for more expensive third party attachments to fit the unique dryer barrel securely.
  7. Hotel rooms in Bolivia might have a mirror installed some distance away from a outlet which makes it hard to style hair, therefore when buying a blow dryer find a unit with the lengthiest power cord possible or use either a portable mirror or extension cord.
  8. Safe travel hair dryers will include an ALCI safety plug which reduces the risk of overloading leading to an electrical fire - models can be recognised by the two reset and test buttons found on the plug.
  9. If you have curlier or thicker hair then you could need a blow dryer with a stronger motor. A higher wattage ceramic model that has a diffuser will dry hair much faster, thereby avoiding damage.
Which is a good mini ionic travel hair dryer with dual voltage for Bolivia?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium

Which is a good mini ionic travel hair dryer with dual voltage for Bolivia?

  • A Conair MiniPRO is the most cost effective small ionic blowdryer available to buy, this ceramic 1200 watt dryer is most suited for quickly drying thin and fine hair on the go.
  • For a folding dryer which is small enough to transport in a handbag then the 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat for a shinier finish this dryer manages to include options normally reserved for bulkier models.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used in combination with the right power adapter for a Bolivian power outlet they will work in Bolivia and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried for drying on the go. Both are twin speed, have a 1.5 metre power cable and include a concentrator attachment.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good travel ionic hair dryer with diffuser?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

Which is a good travel ionic hair dryer with diffuser?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but it lacks a cool shot button.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a long 1.82m power cord for more flexibility when styling with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter for cleaning. It uses a strong 1875 watt motor including a cool shot option making it suitable for styling thicker hair.

Both ionic travel hair dryers feature both diffuser and concentrator attachments with strong enough motors to make them the best travel blow dryers for thick hair. They require a suitable power adapter for Bolivia to fit into a Bolivian power outlet, they are lightweight and will fold up to pack in a carry-on travel bag.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

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

Thick hair will take much longer to dry and can be hard to do so without your hair going frizzy, so the best option for thick hair is an ionic dryer, if the hair is curly use 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 will be suitable because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers - avoid buying a hair 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 compact travel hair dryer for Bolivia?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle

What is the best compact travel hair dryer for Bolivia?

  • Using a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler includes cool shot which can be used to quickly cool hair down.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, a ceramic tourmaline air outlet meaning safer drying, two heat options, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cable and includes a concentrator attachment.

Each model is folding, has an ALCI plug to prevent power overloads and support dual voltage making them perfect for visiting Bolivia in carry on luggage if used with a power adapter for a Bolivian power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best hair dryer to buy for Bolivia?

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 Bolivia 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.

Bolivia power outlets and plug sockets

What frequency is used in Bolivia?

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

What is the voltage in Bolivia?

The typical voltage used in Bolivia is 115 volts.

Which power adapter will you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Bolivia?

Type A and C power outlets

Which power adapter will you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Bolivia?

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

  • Plug Type A - You can identify this power socket by two thin slots next to each other for live and neutral.
  • Plug Type C - You can recognise this wall socket by the 2 circular adjacent holes next to each other where the pins go.

A recommended plug adapter to bring for using a 115 volt hair dryer in Bolivia is a Type C plug adapter - read the simple instructions below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Bolivia using a travel adapter. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to see if you have to use a voltage converter.  [4] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can you use a dual voltage blow dryer in Bolivia?

  1. Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or it will operate with a 115 volt power outlet.
  2. If your dryer is dual voltage please make sure it is switched to operate within the 100-127V range. This is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to switch.
  3. Plug the dryer into the correct power adapter for Bolivia and also plug in the power adapter into the Bolivian power outlet.
  4. The hair dryer can now be operated with a Bolivian power outlet.
  5. It is normal for travel hair dryer models that were purchased in a country that operates with 220-240 volts to work slower than expected in a power outlet that supplies 100-127 volts.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

A simple way to tell if your hair dryer supports a dual voltage power outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or the plug of your hair dryer. This location will vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer, it could also state in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models will change automatically but other hair dryer models will feature a button or switch which allows you to operate between different voltages.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 115 volts used in Bolivia then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Bolivian 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 115 volts used in a Bolivian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Bolivia.
  • A large voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Bolivia or any other country.

How can I change the voltage on a travel hair dryer?

  1. Most dual voltage hair dryers have some type of dial which toggles between 2 ranges of voltages although some hair dryers can automatically detect the voltage used in Bolivia.
  2. The dial or switch normally requires a small coin or screwdriver to change the dryer to the correct voltage between the 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
  3. Also it's worth making a note of the 2 switch positions as the painted numbers are prone to rubbing off on some models.

Travelling to Bolivia with a hair dryer

Is it safe to bring a domestic hair dryer to Bolivia?

Bringing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing your existing blow dryer to Bolivia as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 115 volt power outlets used with a Bolivian power outlet (provided that you use the correct power adapter for Bolivia). A travel hair dryer will normally feature a collapsing handle and will be much lighter which will help reduce the size and weight when packed in luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer.

Be aware that packing your expensive domestic blow dryer might put it at risk because of potential loss or damage in transit by a baggage handlers in Bolivia. The inconvenience and costs of repairing an expensive quality hair dryer in Bolivia might overshadow the cost of purchasing a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before travelling to bring with you .  [16] [AD]

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Bolivia?

Hotel hair dryer

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Bolivia?

This will all depend on the individual hotel and the quality of the accommodation. Hotel hair dryers are typically found on a bathroom wall, these could be of a slower air hose variety, or might be located in the bedroom wardrobe, drawer or cupboard.

If staying in budget hotels, hostels and motels a communal hair dryer might 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 telephone your hotel in Bolivia or check on the booking web site to find out what is available for guests. Hair dryers in hotels are usable but are normally rudimentary models with no diffuser, notorious for low heat and providing slow air speeds. For those concerned with hygiene should remove any grime from other guests on a shared hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

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 or call ahead to the hotel in Bolivia to check before travelling.  [2] [AD]

Can you pack a hair dryer in your carry on luggage?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can you pack a hair dryer in your carry on luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA suggests that you should verify that the airline which is taking you to Bolivia will allow hair dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft.

Packing the hair 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 and should avoid a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping wires tightly around hair dryers). If you do 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 drops and knocks during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Power converters for Bolivia

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

Voltage converter

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

A heavy and bulky power converter converts a 115 volt Bolivian power outlet to work with a non-115 volt hair dryer, but a cheaper and smaller power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet found in Bolivia. [7] [AD]

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

A suitable voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 115 volt power outlet used in Bolivia. A power converter is more suited for travellers who wish to bring their existing domestic hair dryer, however it can be more expensive to buy a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also worth noting, a travel hair dryer can be substantially smaller and lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suitable when packing in luggage. [7] [AD]

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

Instructions showing you how to use a hair dryer in Bolivia with a Type C travel adapter.

  1. Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 115 volt power outlet but if not then do not attempt these instructions because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages make sure you have set it to the 115 volt setting, consult the manufacturers instructions to find out where the switch is located.
  2. If the shape of the power outlet which is used in Bolivia doesn't take the plug shape on your hair dryer you'll need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4]. The power adapter will help adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet found in Bolivia 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 115 volt supply.
  3. Insert the Type C plug adapter into the Bolivian power outlet. You can identify this plug outlet by two round adjacent holes next to each other.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Bolivian power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on your blow dryer in Bolivia. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Bolivia using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Bolivia using a type A power adapter

A guide on how to power your hair dryer in Bolivia using a 2 blade Type A power charger.

  1. Check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 115 volt power outlet; but if not then don't continue because you may create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Before using a travel hair dryer make sure you have set it to the 115 volt setting - refer to the owners manual for more details on where the switch is found.
  2. Check that you don't already own a hair dryer with a Type A plug - if it does then you won't need a power adapter (but you will still need to check that your hair dryer can work with a 115 volt power outlet). So, if the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Bolivia you'll need to bring a Type A plug adapter [6]. This Type A plug adapter will help convert plugs from other countries for use with a power outlet used in Bolivia by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 115 volt supply.
  3. Plug the Type A plug adapter in the Bolivian power outlet. You can recognise the wall outlet by the 2 thin slots next to each other for live and neutral blades.
  4. After that plug in the hair dryer into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Bolivian power outlet. The hair dryer can now be used in Bolivia. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Bolivia using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - wikipedia page about Bolivia
  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 A power outlet
  6. Type A plug adapter - A two-blade, ungrounded electrical plug adapter for US plug types, Canadian power outlets, Thailand sockets, Mexico plug types, and select Asian power outlets..
  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. 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..
  11. 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..
  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.