Using your hair dryer in Bahrain

Bahraini power outlet

Will my hairdryer work in Bahrain?

Check that your hair dryer can work in Bahrain:

If not then either:

Buy a travel hair dryer for Bahrain
  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Bahraini power outlet, however this is substantially heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but won't change the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of power outlet used in Bahrain, so check that your voltage transformer comes with the correct power adapter for Bahrain otherwise you will still need to bring a seperate power adapter. Please note that your existing hair dryer might not be suited for travel and you could risk damage in your suitcase. [5] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts you run the risk of a blown fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Before using your hair dryer in Bahrain check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Bahrain

Will my hair dryer work in Bahrain?

That will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 230 volts which are used in Bahrain. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can handle 230 volts and you have the correct power adapter then you should be able to use the hair dryer in Bahrain. If not then you will need to consider using either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Read the section on can you use a voltage converter to use a domestic hair dryer in Bahrain for help deciding which option is more suitable. [5] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Bahrain

Choosing the best travel blow dryer

Dual voltage switch on travel hair dryer

Choosing the best travel blow dryer

When looking for the best hair dryer for Bahrain choose a strong but light dual voltage dryer which operates with a 230 volt Bahraini power outlet power outlet with an ALCI safety plug, folding handle and a long cable. When drying thicker hair look for a dryer with a faster 1600+ watt motor and bundled diffuser.

Nine tips for purchasing a travel blow dryer

  1. Depending on the accommodation there could be a wall mirror installed away from a power outlet which makes it awkward to dry hair, therefore look for the longest power cord possible.
  2. It might be cheaper to purchase a new dryer which includes both a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer instead of scouring shops looking for more expensive 3rd party attachments.
  3. Thicker or curlier hair may require a blow dryer which has a more powerful motor, a higher wattage ceramic dryer which has a diffuser will dry hair much faster to prevent damage.
  4. The safest travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will reduce the danger of the motor overloading leading to starting a fire - you can recognise these by the the 2 test and reset switches on the plug.
  5. Ideal travel hair dryers will give control of the temperature and speed settings with two options - a faster hotter speed can dry wet hair quickly whereas a slower speed with a lower temperature will reduce damage to your hair.
  6. Buying the cheapest travel dryer on the market is risky - as well as concerns with safety there is a greater chance that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to a poor construction.
  7. Try looking for a lightweight travel dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models which have a handle which folds will mean more space.
  8. In order to work with a 230 volt Bahraini power outlet a travel hair dryer needs to support dual voltage.
  9. The 'cool shot' button will quickly cool down the hair after drying which will hold the style but this option might be lacking in more compact models.
What is a good dual voltage travel hair dryer?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

What is a good dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  • With a strong twin speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features cool shot which can will rapidly cool hair down to give a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, uses a tourmaline ceramic air outlet resulting in safer styling, twin heat options, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cord and also includes a concentrator attachment.

Both models fold, include an ALCI safety plug to prevent power overloads and has dual voltage making both ideal for visiting Bahrain in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a Bahraini power outlet.  [6] [6] [7] [AD]

What is a good hair dryer for thick hair?

Thick hair can take longer to dry and will be hard to do so without hair turning frizzy, so the best option will be an ionic dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are suitable because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [8] [9] [AD]

What is the best mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage for Bahrain?

The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle

What is the best mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage for Bahrain?

  • If you want to dry thin or fine hair on the go the ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the most cost effective mini ionic hairdryer available to buy.
  • The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is lightweight enough to carry in a purse because of a 10.5oz body with folding handle and also has features reserved for larger blow dryers including a removable filter and a tourmaline outlet which emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage resulting in a shinier finish.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used with the right power adapter for a Bahraini power outlet they should work in Bahrain folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried around during the day for styling on the go. They have a 1.5 metre electric power cord, have a twin speed motor and include a concentrator attachment.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

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

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

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

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65 metre electric power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however doesn't have cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a longer 1.82 metre electric power cord for more flexibility when drying with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter to clean easily. It also utilises a strong 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it perfect for styling thicker hair.

Each ionic hair dryer includes a diffuser and concentrator with strong enough motors to make them the most suitable blow dryers for thick hair. Each dryer is lightweight and folds up to fit in a carry-on bag and will only require a cheap power adapter for Bahrain to fit into a Bahraini power outlet.  [8] [9] [9] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel blow dryer to buy for Bahrain?

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.com/BaBylissPRO-Titanium-Bambino-Compact-Dryer/dp/B0068SZ7UG?crid=2DINB36JPL4Y8&keywords=BaBylissPRO+Nano+Titanium+Travel&qid=1695049039&s=beauty&sprefix=babylisspro+nano+titanium+travel%2Cbeauty%2C159&sr=1-8&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=e8c6666d23ce4b94dacd3eebe6ee2e52&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl		 Conair
Compact
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07HB2ZRNJ?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=0d63bbe1932e337ac284cff97127f87f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl		 Berta
Folding
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XWV3K4L?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=8917b03d1d32d516d8d91e80a2c879c3&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl		 X5
Superlite
https://www.amazon.com/Revlon-Technolgy-Convenience-Worldwide-Included/dp/B00M8BDQXW?dchild=1&keywords=X5+Superlite+1600W+Dual+Voltage+Ceramic+Ionic+Travel+Dryer&qid=1624444396&sr=8-3&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=1d77c57773d2348052a5461909efc53b&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl		 Hot Tools
1044
https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Tools-Professional-Ht1044-Folding/dp/B003A1DWRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1506767312&sr=1-1&keywords=Hot+Tools+Professional+Ht1044+Ionic+1875+Watt+Travel+Dryer+with+Folding+Handle+and+Dual+Votage&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=e4d6cd8511a014951b16d43f9ec3a809
Class Mini Compact Compact with diffuser
Works in Bahrain 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.

Bahrain power outlets and plug sockets

What voltage is used in Bahrain?

Power outlets in Bahrain are 230 volts.

What is the electrical frequency used in Bahrain?

The frequency of the current from a Bahraini power outlet is 50 Hz. [12]

Which plug adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in Bahrain?

The type of power outlet used in Bahrain is type G. You can recognise this plug outlet by the three rectangular slots containing shutters in a triangular shape for live, neutral and earth. A Type G power adapter will allow you to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Bahrain; read the simple guide below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Bahrain. Please note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to bring a power converter.  [4] [13] [AD]

Which plug adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in Bahrain?
Plug adapters for Bahrain

Dual voltage hair dryers

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

  1. Most models of dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which changes between 2 voltages although some dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Bahrain.
  2. This switch or dial requires either a coin or screwdriver to change the hair dryer to the right voltage between the 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
  3. In addition to switching this it's worth noting down both switch positions because the painted numbers can sometimes rub off on some models of travel dryer.

How do you use your dual voltage hair dryer in Bahrain?

  1. Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it will work with a 230 volt power outlet.
  2. If the hair dryer is dual voltage please make sure that it is set to operate within the 220-240 volt range. The switch is normally found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the power adapter for Bahrain, also plug in the power adapter into the Bahraini power outlet.
  4. It's normal for a majority of dual voltage hair dryers operating in the 220-240V range to only work safely on a low speed setting, however this speed and temperature should still be adequate enough for drying hair. Check the hair dryer guidelines to find out if this is relevant for your model of hair dryer to avoid the risk of overheating.
  5. Your hair dryer is now ready to be used with a Bahraini power outlet.
How can you tell if your hair dryer is dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

How can you tell if your hair dryer is dual voltage?

One method to tell if your hair dryer can handle a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or the handle of your hair dryer. The location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer and should also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models will change automatically, however other hair dryers will have a button or switch which allows you to change between different voltage ranges depending on which country you are in.

  • Single voltage could say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Bahrain then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Bahraini 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 Bahraini power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Bahrain.
  • Dual voltage will say a larger voltage range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Bahrain or any other country if these numbers are shown.

Travelling to Bahrain with a hair dryer

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

Hotel hair dryer

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

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

If staying in cheaper motels, hotels and hostels a shared hair dryer might be available at reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer availability you can either check on the booking web site or call ahead to the hotel in Bahrain to find out if a suitable hairdryer available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but are normally basic models lacking a diffuser, notorious for slow air speeds and low heat. Those concerned with hygiene should check for the grime from previous guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

Remember, if in doubt either telephone ahead to your hotel in Bahrain or bring a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Can I carry on a blow dryer to Bahrain?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I carry on a blow dryer to Bahrain?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also suggests that you should verify that your airline that is taking you to Bahrain will allow a blow dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing the 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 and will avoid a tangle of cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cables tightly around hair dryers). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against drops and knocks during transit.   [14] [15] [16] [AD]

Is it safe to bring my domestic hair dryer to Bahrain?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer rather than packing an existing domestic hair dryer to Bahrain as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Bahraini power outlet (as long as you bring the correct power adapter for Bahrain). Travel hair dryers typically feature a collapsible handle and are much lighter which helps in reducing the size and weight when packed in luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer. Please be aware that packing an expensive domestic hair dryer could put it at risk because of potential damage or loss in transit by an airline baggage handler in Bahrain. The inconvenience and costs involved in replacing or repairing an expensive quality hair dryer in Bahrain could be higher than buying a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case beforehand to bring along .  [15] [AD]

Power converters for Bahrain

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

Voltage converter

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

A heavy and bulky power converter will convert a 230 volt Bahraini power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, but a more lightweight and cheaper power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Bahrain. [5] [AD]

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

A voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 230 volt power outlet used in Bahrain. Travellers wishing to bring their own hair dryer can use a power converter, but it could be more expensive to buy a power converter than it is to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be considerably lighter and smaller than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for packing. [5] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Bahrain using a type G power adapter

How to power your hair dryer in Bahrain with a 3 pronged Type G power adapter.

  1. Please check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply but if it doesn't then don't continue because you could damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Some travel blow dryers usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 230 volt setting to use in Bahrain - consult the owners manual to find out where this switch is.
  2. If the type of power outlet used in Bahrain isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair dryer you'll need to buy a Type G plug adapter [4]. This plug adapter will help convert different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet in Bahrain simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Start by taking the Type G plug adapter and plugging it in the Bahraini power outlet. You can recognise this plug supply by the three rectangular slots with plastic shutters in a triangular shape for live, neutral and earth.
  4. Then plug in your hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Bahraini power outlet. You can now switch on the hair dryer for use in Bahrain. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Bahrain using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Bahrain Wikipedia page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  4. Type G plug 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..
  5. 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..
  6. 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..
  7. 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..
  8. 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..
  9. 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..
  10. 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..
  11. 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..
  12. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  13. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  14. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  15. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  16. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.