t3 hair dryer travel

T3 Afar hair dryer review: light, breezy and easy to travel with

This light and compact hair dryer makes an excellent travel companion.

TechRadar Verdict

Offering 'IonAir' technology to dry hair smooth and six heat and speed combinations, the T3 Afar is a versatile hair dryer that's ideal for travel. A foldable handle smoothly clicks into place, making this dryer convenient to pack and store. It also manages to generate a decent amount of power and heat given the compact size. It delivers fast results, and its settings are easy to operate, making it a cinch for tackling post-swim holiday hair.

Foldable handle makes it easy to stow

Lightweight, compact design

Three heat and two speed settings

Auto dual voltage

Only one nozzle included

More powerful options if you go bigger

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

• Price & availability
• Performance
• Should I buy?

Also consider...

• How I tested

Two-minute review

T3 sells a range of standard and compact-size hair dryers, with the T3 Afar design marketed as the brand’s travel hair dryer. Having reviewed both the T3 Fit and T3 AireLuxe models, I was interested to see how different an experience the T3 Afar would deliver. 

While the Afar model is very different from the T3 AireLuxe in terms of settings and shape, it does share some similarities to the equally compact T3 Fit. However, the T3 Afar’s foldable handle makes it far more suitable for traveling, and it's easily one of the best hair dryers for that reason. 

Overall, the T3 Afar feels sturdy, which isn’t true of many travel hairdryers. The handle, too, shows no signs of flimsiness, instead feeling smooth, solid and comfortable in the hand.

Inside the box, you get one concentrator nozzle that clicks onto the body of the T3 Afar and can be adjusted to direct the airflow as you wish. Like the range-topping T3 Featherweight StyleMax and AireLuxe dryers, as well as the Fit model, the Afar has an ion generator that saturates the airflow with negative ions to create a smooth and silky finish when drying hair. I found that while the T3 Afar doesn’t dry hair as quickly as a standard hair dryer, it does produce satisfying results, limiting flyaway hair in the process. 

A travel pouch is also included in the box; it’s made from vegan leather and feels well-crafted and is easy to wipe clean, and sufficiently roomy for storing the folded hair dryer and the styling nozzle. In fact, it even has space for the hairbrush or diffuser attachment, which are sold separately. 

T3 Afar hair dryer: price & availability

• Free 30-day returns 
• Travel pouch included 
• 2-year warranty 

The T3 Afar is significantly pricier than the average travel hair dryer you can buy from Amazon , but its ergonomically designed features place it a step above and make it easy to achieve great results.

At the time of writing, you can buy the T3 Afar for $179.99 / £150, which includes a luxury travel pouch and one concentrator nozzle. If you have wavy, curly or coily hair, you may want to add the T3 Afar diffuser attachment , but this is sold separately and costs an extra $25 / £20.

• Value for money score: 4 out of 5

T3 Afar hair dryer specs

T3 afar hair dryer review: design.

• Stylish satin blush finish 
• Foldable handle makes it easy for transporting  
• Controls are easy to use  

A soft pink, satin blush finish and lightweight design make the T3 Afar both easy to hold and easy on the eye. At 381g, it’s much lighter than your standard hair dryer; however, this not only limits arm ache over prolonged use, but also makes it a great option to pop in your hand luggage when travelling.

In fact, the T3 Afar’s USP is that it’s 25% lighter and 30% smaller than a full-size T3 hair dryer such as the T3 AireLuxe. Size-wise, it’s similar to the T3 Fit, which weighs in at 400g. It’s as compact as the Dyson Supersonic, which is considerably heavier at 659g (read TechRadar's full Dyson Supersonic hair dryer review ) As a regular user of the Dyson Supersonic, I found the T3 Afar did feel far lighter in hand and offered a very different drying experience, which took me a few attempts to get used to. However, the results were just as satisfying.

In particular, I welcome how cleanly the T3 Afar’s handle folds in and out, clicking into place each time. The heat and speed settings are well-positioned, again clicking into position so there’s no risk of accidentally adjusting the settings while in use. 

The T3 Afar’s cord length is ample at 6ft 2, which delivered more than enough flexibility to move around freely when drying my hair at the dressing table. If you really want to be able to roam freely with your hair dryer, there are options with longer cords though (the Supersonic's cord is over 8ft, for instance). 

The T3 Afar is missing a hanging hook with which to store the hair dryer upside down, but since it’s been designed for travel, it may have been deemed unnecessary. However, in the box you do get a vegan leather travel pouch for storage purposes. And since the hair dryer has auto dual voltage, you only need to add a plug adapter when travelling abroad.

• Design score: 4 out of 5

T3 Afar hair dryer review: performance

• Ion-infused airstream for fast and gentle drying  
• Reduces frizz and smooths hair  
• Flexible heat and speed settings  

As someone who has wavy hair that’s prone to frizz, having a hair dryer that can smooth my hair quickly and easily is a priority. In general, travel hair dryers have a reputation for being flimsy in design and underpowered; but I found the T3 Afar surprisingly powerful, and sturdy and comfortable to use. 

At 1,500 watts, this may not provide as powerful an airflow as a standard hair dryer such as the 1,875-watt T3 AireLuxe, but it can still pack a punch to deliver stylish results. However, like the AireLuxe, the T3 Afar comes with “IonAir” technology. This creates a wide, ion-infused airstream that gently dries hair, while smoothing the hair cuticle to minimize frizz and enhance shine. 

Three heat and two speed settings provide plenty of flexibility to style with confidence. I found that switching between the two speed and three heat settings was easy, and while I preferred to ramp up to the highest speed and heat setting to get faster drying results, I can appreciate that the lower settings are beneficial for those drying shorter hair or even children’s hair.

It took me a while to figure out how to use the cool shot – it needs to be clicked into place rather than simply held down – but once familiar, I found that this actually made the whole process of setting a style easier.

Both the concentrator nozzle and diffuser fit cleanly into position on the head of the hair dryer. I welcome the fact that I could click and turn the concentrator nozzle, meaning I could easily adjust the airflow to suit my styling needs. Being able to channel the airflow more definitively helped me to achieve smoother results when blow-drying and styling more difficult to reach locks at the back of my head. I watched the T3 video on how to create a bouncy blow out and was pleased with the results. The trick is to use a 2-inch round brush and direct the airflow downwards. 

Overall, those used to using a standard hair dryer such as the GHD Helios are likely to find that the T3 Afar will take some getting used to since it doesn’t feel as  satisfying for power. However, as a travel hair dryer capable of producing smooth and stylish results, I found the T3 Afar impressive.

• Performance score: 4.5 out of 5

Should I buy the T3 Afar?

Buy it if....

You want smooth and shiny results With an ion-infused airstream, this hair dryer does well to tame frizz and direct the airflow through its concentrator nozzle for stylish results. 

You travel frequently and want a hair dryer that delivers impressive results It isn’t quite as powerful as a standard hair dryer, but this compact and clean design will give you near professional results when you’re on the go. 

You need a hair dryer that is small and lightweight At 25% lighter and 30% smaller than a full-size T3 hair dryer, the Afar can be neatly folded and stored in a luxury travel pouch when not in use. 

Don't buy it if...

You want the speed and power of a standard hair dryer While this hair dryer does well to compete with standard hair dryers in terms of airflow speed, it isn’t quite as powerful. 

You don’t like pink This hair dryer’s satin blush pink finish may not appeal to all members of a family. If you’re after a travel hair dryer that the whole family can borrow, you may want to opt for a design in a more neutral colorway.   

This lightweight yet powerful hair dryer is excellent for travel, featuring an excellent foldable design that makes it more compact and easy to pack, and it supports dual voltage so really can be used anywhere in the world. During testing, we found it was quick to dry our hair but couldn’t achieve the shine and smoothness other hair dryers could. 

Read our GHD Flight review

With comfortable grip and a lightweight design, the T3 AirLuxe can create beautiful blowouts. Compared to the Shark SpeedStyle, however, it ships with limited attachments.

Read our T3 AirLuxe review

How I tested the T3 Afar

• Used the included attachment
• Tested on long, wavy, frizz-prone hair
• Testing was done during winter months in the United Kingdom

To test the T3 Afar, I used it for several weeks to dry my hair from wet. I tried both the included concentrator nozzle as well as the additional diffuser, trying different styles and techniques as well as measuring the sound output.

As it's a travel hairdryer, I also put the design through its paces in order to see how durable it is as well as how easy it would be to travel with. 

I've been testing lifestyle devices for years, and have been drying my hair for even longer, so I make sure to prioritize the right things when it comes to reviewing hair dryers; performance, value and design. 

Read more about how we test

• First reviewed March 2024

Emily is a lifestyle journalist who writes for a range of publications including TechRadar, Livingetc, Wired, Ideal Home and GQ. She writes about interior design and smart home, gardens, wellbeing, food and fitness and has tested everything from food processors to paddleboards, and bee hives to the best beds. When she’s not typing away at her computer, she can be found tending to her Dorset-garden, trying the latest water sport at the beach or acting as chauffeur to her two young kids.

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• Travel Products

The 7 Most Compact and Portable Travel Hair Dryers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Don't rely on hotel dryers — pack one of these travel-size hair dryers for your next vacation.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel & Leisure / Kevin Liang

If you’ve ever traveled with the plan to rely on the hotel hair dryer and been sorely disappointed at the quality of the item and its lack of ability to dry hair, you are not alone. Hotel hair dryers are notoriously weak, and if you have long hair, thick hair, or plan to give yourself a snazzy blowout while on vacation, they can certainly come up short. 

We recommend packing a compact, lightweight travel hair dryer so you can be sure you have a product that’ll meet all of your needs. To find the very best travel hair dryers, we conducted a four-week study in which we tested 34 products. We paid close attention to ease of use, features, drying performance, overall look, and value. 

The T3 Afar Travel Hair Dryer stood out above the rest because it’s small but very mighty, and it dried our hair quickly plus left it looking shiny. But if you’re looking for other options, including a splurge-worthy dryer or a pick with lots of attachments and accessories, read on. We found the very best selections in every category. 

Best Overall

T3 afar travel size hair dryer.

Bloomingdale's

It’s super lightweight, comfortable to hold, and the sweetest shade of pink.

It doesn’t include a diffuser. 

If you only buy one travel hair dryer, let it be this super compact does-it-all product from T3, a brand known for its high-quality hair tools. Weighing in at less than one pound, this small dryer with a foldable handle won’t hog much space in your luggage at all. It even comes with a vegan leather travel pouch so you can keep it separate from your belongings, which is extra beneficial for when it’s still hot after use. 

The product works well on all hair types, from fine and straight to thick and coily. It uses a wide, ion-infused airstream that gently dries hair fast, and we enjoyed the strong, even air flow during testing. Meanwhile, negative ions help smooth the hair cuticle to minimize frizz. We noticed our hair looked quite shiny after use. It has three heat settings and two speed settings, plus a cool shot setting that locks in your style. A bonus for international travelers : the dual-voltage dryer automatically adapts so you don’t need to pack a converter (though you may need a plug adapter , depending on your destination).

The Details: 12.2 ounces | 1500 watts

Best for Frizz

Bondiboost sonic dryer.

Bondi Boost

The lightweight dryer has impressive airflow and will help tame your frizz.

The attachments can be difficult to remove.

Though small and lightweight, this hair dryer has plenty of power, and the strength of the airflow impressed us during testing. Despite that, the motor is relatively quiet compared to standard hair dryers, so it’s ideal to use during early mornings or late nights while others may be sleeping within earshot. There are four heat settings and three speed settings (plus a cool shot setting) that can accommodate virtually any hair type. We found the BondiBoost dryer was able to quickly and effectively dry hair even on the lower heat and speed settings, while leaving our hair smoother and less frizzy. The product includes a concentrated airflow attachment and a diffuser. Plus, it comes equipped with a unique self-cleaning function, which helps to prolong the life of the hair dryer. It even has a smart memory function that memorizes your heat and speed settings.

The Details: 12.32 ounces

Best Foldable

Sri dryq hair dryer.

You can fold this dryer, making it easier to pack.

The setting buttons are located on the body of the dryer rather than on the handle.

A foldable hair dryer provides added convenience for travelers because it makes it easier to fit into small luggage compartments. Even if using it at home, you’ll appreciate that it takes less real estate on your vanity or in a drawer. This lightweight, foldable model uses ionic technology, which helps prevent frizz and promotes a faster drying time. It’s also equipped with red light therapy, which claims to help strengthen weak, brittle hair and promote growth. There are four modes (from 160 to 296 degrees Fahrenheit) and three speed settings, as well as a memory function. Though we appreciated the product’s quick-drying ability and the results that left hair smooth without noticeable damage, we found the button placement a tad inconvenient. 

The Details: 11.8 ounces | 8.2 x 8.7 inches | 1300 watts

Best Accessories

Olivia garden high performance professional hair dryer.

Olivia Garden 

It includes a concentrated nozzle, a diffuser, two round brushes, and a paddle brush.

The attachments were a bit difficult to remove.

If you’ve ever been frustrated by accidentally switching a heat or speed setting on your hair dryer due to inconveniently placed buttons, listen up: this lightweight dryer comes with a button lock feature so you’ll never unwillingly change one of the three airflow speeds or three heat settings (from 145 to 250 degrees Fahrenheit). We found that this hair dryer’s powerful airflow made it worth the high price tag, in addition to the fact that it didn’t leave hair with any visible damage. With the plethora of included attachments and accessories, you can create virtually any hairstyle without having to pack additional tools. Plus, it features a self-clean function to eradicate any gunk that builds up over time. 

The Details: 13 ounces | 11.8 x 11.8 x 5.9 inches | 1875 watts

Best Airflow

Tymo highspeed hair dryer.

Some compact hair dryers can be weak, but this one had strong airflow that helps dry hair quickly.

The power button is a bit tricky to use.

Despite its small, lightweight frame, this hair dryer packs quite the power. We were impressed with the potential intensity of the airflow, especially for the mid-range price tag. We found the dryer — which has four heat settings (up to 302 degrees Fahrenheit), three speed settings, and a cold shot — able to fully dry our hair relatively quickly when compared with other dryers we tested. The LCD display is a nice touch so you can see the exact temperature you’re dispersing onto your hair. An added bonus: it comes with a travel case for extra convenient toting. 

The Details: 10.5 ounces | 1200 watts

Best Budget

Revlon airflow control dryer.

This is by far the most affordable option on this list if you want something budget-friendly to travel with.

It works best on thin and fine hair types.

If you don’t use a travel dryer often and prefer a model with a budget-friendly price point, this Revlon model is a good bet. It has a narrowly concentrated airflow, which increases airflow speed and targets wider sections of hair than a regular concentrator, making it convenient for blowouts and styling. The nozzle can be rotated and locked into place either vertically or horizontally so you can focus air on your strands from any angle. It also includes a diffuser for use on curly hair. We found that it helped reduce frizz and boost shine thanks to its ceramic tourmaline technology. It features three heat settings and two speed settings, and we were quite happy with the effects for the price.

The Details: 2.07 pounds | 3.6 x 11.1 x 9 inches | 1875 watts

Best Blow Dry Brush

Drybar 3-in-1 interchangeable blow dryer.

You won't have to pack any additional styling tools with this handy blow dry brush.

It's not the best for curling hair.

For a classic blow-out look you can achieve at home, look to the Drybar Reserve 3-in-1 Interchangeable Blow Dryer. It comes with an oval brush attachment, a paddle brush attachment, and a concentrator blow dryer. While it isn't the best for curling hair (consider investing in some heatless curlers instead), it does leave hair looking sleek and straight with a bit of bounce at the ends. Throughout our tests, we saw no signs of heat damage on our hair and the cool temperature helped a lot with creating a final shiny and healthy look. It helped tamed our flyaways, while smoothing sections of hair that usually become frizzy and staticky after drying. When you don't have time to head out to a Drybar salon on vacation, this device is an excellent one-stop shop.

The Details: 1 pound | 4.57 x 12.7 x 7.4inches

Other Travel Hair Dryers We Liked

These two hair dryers also stood apart from the crowd during testing, although they had some minor issues that gave us pause.

Mane Addicts This Totally Blows! Compact Hair Dryer : Though we loved that this lightweight model comes with multiple attachments including a concentrated nozzle, a diffuser, and a comb, it was a bit expensive considering the limited heat options.

T3 Fit Hair Dryer : We love the cord length of this small and sturdy hair dryer, but the speed and heat settings are on the outside of the handle, which makes it a bit difficult to change the settings as the dryer is in use.

First, we tested 34 of the top hair dryers in our labs, sorting through the overall results to pick out the most travel-friendly options, specifically looking for ones that were compact, portable, and lightweight. In addition to editors testing the products, we also had expert hair stylists use the products on others in our laboratory tests to get some professional insight. After the initial test, we tried the products out at home at least twice a week over the course of four weeks to make sure the hair dryers were user-friendly for everyday travelers without the help of hair professionals.

To compare how each dryer stacked up against the others, we took detailed notes on ease of use, product features, drying performance, how our hair turned out, and the value of the product. We will continue to update this article as we test more travel-friendly hair dryers that we love.

Tips for Buying a Travel Hair Dryer

Pay attention to size and weight.

If your luggage space is limited, you’ll be better off with one of the smaller items on our list. Foldable hair dryers are particularly convenient for packing because they can collapse into a more compact shape. If you’re working against suitcase weight limits, pay special attention to the weight of the hair dryer — there are great options even at under one pound. 

Make sure it works for your hair type

You don’t want a dryer that’s too weak or too hot for your hair type, which can defeat the purpose of the product or leave your hair damp or frizzy. To prevent this, buy a travel dryer with similar wattage and power settings to your at-home hair dryer, and be sure to give it a test run before you travel. Many typical dryers are about 1800 watts.

Frequently Asked Questions

If your hair dryer comes with a carrying case or pouch, place the dryer inside the pouch before adding it to your suitcase. A packing cube or any cloth bag can also help keep your dryer safe. Put the dryer in a padded part of your suitcase (for example, in a compartment where it’ll be surrounded by soft clothing). It’s a good idea to wrap the dryer’s cord with a cord fastener or twist tie so that it doesn’t get damaged or tangled in transit. Just make sure you allow your hair dryer to fully cool down before packing it. 

You can pack your hair dryer in your carry-on bag — just be sure you can fit it safely inside and that your bag adheres to all carry-on specifications .

While many hair dryers (such as our top pick!) come with automatic voltage converters, others do not. If you’re traveling internationally, be sure to pack a voltage converter with the appropriate plug for your destination. If your hair dryer includes an automatic voltage converter or a voltage converter switch, just make sure you have the right plug adapter for your intended destination.

Most hair dryers have a typical two-prong U.S. plug format, so you'll need an adapter with at least that type of input. If your hair dryer has a three-prong plug format, make sure you pack an adapter that can accommodate it. In many countries, electrical voltage is 220/240V, while U.S. and Canadian devices are designed for 110/120V. Most U.S. hair dryers will also require a converter when traveling between countries that use different voltages and some products. No matter what, if you don’t use a converter and plug in your hair dryer with mismatched voltage, it’s possible to ruin your device or even start a fire. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, longtime beauty writer and editor Talia Ergas pored over copious notes from our lab and real-world tests to convey the best and lacking features of each choice. We also consulted professional hair stylists during our lab tests to get the most detailed insights.

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Blow on the Go: Here’s Why the T3 Afar Hair Dryer Makes a Perfect Travel Companion

A micro hair tool that works fast and efficiently, but is it worth the hype? We tested out the T3 Afar Hair Dryer.

By Latifah Muhammad

Latifah Muhammad

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For Black women, like myself who wear their hair natural, T3 Afar is a good choice that gets the job done in a short period of time, but it might not be a great for the natural hair girlies with extremely thick and/or long hair (not that it won’t work, but it might take longer). Luckily, the hair dryer has six heat and speed combinations and a concentrator nozzle to “dry evenly with a wide volume of hair,” according to use guide.  

Wash day can stretch on for hours at a time, especially for those of us with kinky or curly hair. Washing, conditioning and detangling can be an ordeal within itself, but the Afar Dryer gave me some wash day relief because it cut down on my overall drying time by about 50%, which is great when you’re traveling and need to get your hair dried quickly.

The Afar also works much better (and faster) than some of the cheaper hair dryers that I’ve had for a couple of years: Conair 1875 Styler ($31.99) and Hot Tools Signature Ionic Hair Dryer ($49.16) .

Plus, it’s very cute. With its sleek, ergonomic design, satin blush colorway and gold accents, this travel size dryer looks as good as it works. It’s compact with a foldable handle and includes a travel tote designed to fit in your suitcase, duffle bag or large purse .

The T3 Afar Travel Hair Dryer is available at major retailers like Ulta Beauty , Sephora , Best Buy and Amazon as well as T3.com .

Purchase below.

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Performance

13 Best Travel Hair Dryers That Are Tiny But Mighty

They pack a powerful blow.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

While travel hair dryers serve the same fundamental purpose as their full-size counterparts (drying and styling hair), they're "usually more compact and lightweight, and are designed to work with a variety of voltage standards and adaptability to different outlets in ways regular dryers typically are not," says Sabina Wizemann , director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab. "Travel blow dryers usually have lower wattage to meet the voltage requirements of various countries," she adds.

Our top picks:

Best Overall

Drybar baby buttercup travel blow dryer.

Conair Worldwide Travel Hair Dryer

Best Travel Hair Dryer With Diffuser

Stylecraft peewee dual voltage travel dryer.

Slimmest Travel Hair Dryer

L'ange le styliste luxe digital salon dryer.

Best Dual-Voltage Travel Hair Dryer

Babylisspro nano titanium travel dryer.

Most Powerful Travel Hair Dryer

Revlon fast dry travel styler.

Best Travel Hair Dryer for Damaged Hair

T3 afar lightweight travel size hair dryer.

Best Luxury Travel Hair Dryer

Dyson supersonic hair dryer.

Best Travel Hair Dryer for Thick Hair

Fhi heat innovator dryer.

Best Customizable Travel Hair Dryer

Bio ionic smart-x high efficiency hair dryer + diffuser.

Our Beauty Lab analysts regularly test hair dryers, hair dryer brushes , curling wands and other types of hair tools for performance, styling ability and ease of use. In our most recent test of travel hair dryers, we evaluated 11 models and recorded over 2,000 data points to determine which delivered the most gorgeous, salon-level blowouts. Our final list of recommendations includes the winning models from our test, as well as editor favorites, plus tips from celebrity hairstylists Clariss Rubenstein and Nick Stenson .

Our analysts were impressed by the travel-sized version of Drybar's best-selling hair dryer — in fact, it came out on top in our travel hair dryer tests.

The dual-voltage model delivers fast-drying power in a conveniently compact package that folds at the handle and offers two heat settings plus a cool shot button to lock in your style. It landed perfect scores in our Lab evaluations for its easy-to-use controls , quick drying time and strong airflow. "Wow, this is powerful," said one tester. "It's the right size and doesn't look like a travel dryer until you fold the handle."

While it is pricey for a travel dryer, Wizemann notes that it's powerful enough to pull double-duty as a home and away option. One other thing to note: Some testers commented that it was a bit heavier than other models they've tried, and the attachments weren't always easy to get on and off.

This Conair dryer scored high in our travel hair dryer test and it's a GH Beauty Award winner . It blew away the competition when it came to drying speed, drying standardized human hair samples fastest of all the travel hairdryers we tested (in just 60 seconds!).

While a little bulky for a travel dryer, we think it's a versatile and budget-friendly option, complete with three heat and two speed settings. “It has strong airflow and high heat,” one tester said, while another said they liked that it “offered the most control options.” It does have a shorter cord length than others, though, so you'll need to plug it in close to a mirror if you need one.

Impressively lightweight, this hair dryer is the quick fix you need for a weekend trip if you rely on using a hair diffuser . The Lab found it one of the most consistent models we tested across the board when it came to comfortable hold, quiet airflow and easy-to-use buttons . Plus, it comes with that diffuser, making it a great choice for those with curly hair.

Testers loved that "there is a convenient stand for hands free styling" and that it was "light yet feels substantial." According to our Lab experts, it can get hot, so it's best for quick dries that don't require a cool shot button.

In our testing, our Beauty Lab pros found the Le Styliste Luxe to be a great option for travel. Though it's not technically a travel dryer and doesn't fold, its compact size and weight are on par with other travel hair dryers we've tested.

For being so slender and petite , this 1875-watt hairdryer produced an impressively powerful airflow, drying hair quickly. It comes with two attachments and a diffuser and weighs 1.2 pounds with a cord. It was also quieter than many of the other hair dryers we evaluated.

While we haven't yet fully evaluated this model in the Lab, we had to include it on our list because it's one of the most sought-after travel hair dryers on Amazon , where reviewers say you'll be particularly impressed by how powerful it is, despite its small handheld size. We also give it bonus points for its dual voltage feature and its concentrator nozzle. That said, it may not be ideal for those with curly hair, as there is no diffuser attachment.

One Amazon reviewer, who claims to be an avid traveler, said they've relied on this dryer for 15 years. "I ALWAYS take this with me, period," the reviewer wrote. "I just got back from a 10-day trip to the northern coast of Spain, and my hotel had a blowdryer that I didn't even touch."

Revlon's Fast Dry Travel Styler checks off all the boxes of a good travel hair dryer: It's dual-voltage and offers two heat and speed settings, a cool shot button and a folding handle. Though sleek in design, our Lab testers did find it to be a bit loud and a little difficult to switch between attachments, though. But we're giving it points for being extremely powerful. In fact, it's the only dryer we tested that earned a perfect airflow score .

T3's now-discontinued Featherweight compact hair dryer was a GH favorite. While we haven't yet gotten our hands on this updated version from the brand, we trust that it will prove to be just as great. Why? It has a foldable handle for easy storage, plus it offers dual voltage, meaning you can leave your adapter at home when traveling internationally.

Celebrity hairstylist Clariss Rubenstein says she also loves T3 hair dryers for their speedy dry time and frizz-free results . The Afar offers two speeds, three heat settings and a cool shot button. Sephora reviewers say they love the multiple setting options and folding handle — though some note that it is on the noisier side.

While it's not technically a travel hair dryer, the Dyson Supersonic is lightweight and compact, making it a solid travel companion. In our tests, its one-of-a-kind design dried hair fastest and has become the overall standard in our blow dryer tests. It dried an eight-inch hair sample in only 54 seconds due to its impressively strong airflow. How? Its motor is lighter and smaller than most, and it lives in the handle rather than the end of the typical dryer head.

Although it carries a hefty price tag, Deputy Editor Jessica Teich attests that it's worth buying, especially when it comes to domestic travel (it's not dual voltage, so international travelers beware). Our Lab testers agree. "Of all of the dryers, I had the best experience with this one — largely because I felt like on the most humid of days, it got my hair smoother and straighter in less time than any other one I've ever used," shared one.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Why the Dyson Supersonic Is Worth the Money

A GH Beauty Award winner , this sleek dryer delivered the strongest airflow and dried hair fast in testing despite its slim design and compact size, making it ideal for thick hair.

While it's technically a full-size hair dryer and wasn't created for travel, our Lab pros found it to be lightweight, with one saying it was "very comfortable to hold with easy-to-reach controls." Two things to watch for: The nozzle can pop off mid-blowdry when it gets hot and we found it to be slightly more noisy than others tested.

While it is a splurge, Bio Ionic's Smart-X Dryer has a lot of unique features that help justify the price. It allows you to personalize your styling experience with an auto-memorization feature that learns your chosen settings, has a self-cleaning function and uses more air pressure and less heat for an overall healthier dry, according to the brand.

It isn't designed to be a travel dryer, but its lightweight and slim design make it a good option. In testing, Lab analysts noted its strong airflow — a feature echoed by Amazon reviewers. "The concentration of the airflow is [so] amazing that I rarely use the concentrator," wrote one Amazon reviewer. "The dryer is compact in size and perfect for traveling."

Skin Research Institute DryQ “Smart” Hair Dryer

In Lab testing, this quiet and compact hair dryer received the best score for drying hair quickly, making hair look smooth (and not frizzy) and for overall satisfaction when using it . Testers also loved the quality, durability and temperature range of the tool and found it easy to attach and detach accessories, while also folding up nicely.

"I liked how light it was to use and how quickly my hair dried even on the coolest temperature," says one tester, while another loved how smooth and shiny her hair was. "It looked like a professional blowout!" The only downside? The accessories may get hot and controls weren't the easiest to operate.

CHI LAVA PRO Hair Dryer

Lightweight and quiet, this dryer from CHI was another top contender in the Lab's testing due to its good air flow and high heat options . You can't help but notice its unique shape at first glance; it provides a straight shot of air, which reduces drying time using less electricity while producing a stronger air flow, according to the brand. Plus, it has four heat settings, three speed settings and a super quick (seven seconds!) auto-cleaning function.

Since it isn't technically a travel dryer, it doesn't fold up, but reviewers love it nonetheless. "I just started using this hair dryer and love it," shares one reviewer. "It dries my hair so fast and it's so lightweight!"

YA-MAN Spa Styler Blow Dry + Scalp Massage

Comfort is key and Ya-Man's dryer proved that point in our Lab testing. One hundred percent of testers found it ergonomic and comfortable to hold, safe to use and that it didn't cause any discomfort or burns on skin .

The comfort applies to your head and scalp as well: It has a Scalp Lift attachment, inspired by a traditional Japanese head spa, which "combines warm airflow and soothing vibrations to relax and soften the scalp and promote healthy hair," according to the brand. The tool also received the best score in our Lab tests for creating a desired style and 94% of reviewers liked the weight of dryer. While they appreciated the length of the cord, some testers found it to be heavy and also noted that the cool shot button can be easily pressed while blow drying.

"The lightweight and sturdy design makes it easy to maneuver while styling and the airflow dried my hair very quickly (more so than my previous dryer)," shares one tester. "The massage tool is a nice feature — it's very relaxing."

How we test travel hair dryers

When it comes to testing hair dryers, our Beauty Lab pros measure everything from the surface temperature to the ease of use, including the comfort of hold, its weight and its cord length.

In our most recent travel hair dryer test, we evaluated 11 top-rated travel hair dryers by measuring drying speed on standardized human hair samples, as well as airflow and the temperature they reach. We also rated noise level and ease of use, including the comfort of hold, ease of putting on and removing attachments and location of controls and buttons.

Overall, our beauty analysts recorded over 2,000 data points to determine which delivered the most gorgeous, salon-level blowouts . In this list, we included the final seven that outperformed all the others.

If you are traveling internationally, take note that every travel dryer we tested in our Lab features dual voltage, meaning these mini blow dryers can function in the United States and abroad with a compatible travel adapter unless otherwise noted — so no worries about blowing a fuse here.

What to look for when shopping for a travel hair dryer

We called on hair pros celebrity hairstylist Clariss Rubenstein and Matrix Artistic Director Nick Stenson for their best shopping advice on mini hair dryers:

✔️ Speed and efficiency: It's the top priority for a travel hair dryer, according to Rubenstein. "Look for features such as ceramic that result in frizz-free and shiny hair," she says. "There is no use in bringing one along if it doesn't make your hair look great." The hairstylist recommends the ion-charged T3 , which dries hair super fast and leaves hair shiny. "It also cuts major frizz," she says. "I would use it even when not traveling."

✔️ Size: The lighter the better! "There are so many that come in compact, lightweight sizes that still pack a major punch," she says. " T3 , Harry Josh and GHD make my favorite travel sizes." You’ll find varied weight and size options with travel dryers, but Stenson suggests keeping it under 1.5 pounds. Another bonus with purchasing a travel dryer is finding one that collapses or folds to allow for easier packing, he adds.

✔️ Wattage: Voltage and wattage should be more of a concern if you’re traveling internationally. Stenson recommends 1875 watts as the sweet spot for most hair dryers. For international travel, you’ll want to invest in a travel adapter as well, no matter the wattage.

✔️ Attachments: A great travel dryer should also come with a concentrator and diffuser attachments for versatility, says Stenson.

Is a travel hair dryer worth it?

Absolutely! Especially if you use a blowdryer daily. "For the moderate to the avid traveler, travel dryers are a fabulous investment that saves space and unnecessary weight in your luggage and keeps you looking your best on the go," says Stenson. Plus, they're likely better than what you'll find in your hotel. "Even though a hotel blowdryer will do its job, it almost never has the same features as higher quality brands," Rubenstein adds. "You won't regret it."

Do mini hair dryers work?

"Travel blow dryers work, but they may not have the same performance, so it's advisable not to have the same expectations as for full-sized hair dryers," Wizemann says. "They may be slower in drying hair and require more time for styling."

That said, the technology has certainly improved in recent years. While regular dryers used to "typically emphasize power and are known to have more advanced styling features for faster and more efficient drying," says Wizemann, many current travel hair dryers have multiple speed and heat setting options just like their bigger, bulkier counterparts.

Can you bring a travel hair dryer in a carry-on?

Yes. "As per TSA regulations, it is allowed to carry a hair dryer as a personal belonging on board ," says Wizemann. She recommends packing it in a separate plastic or Ziploc bag if you are also carrying liquids and place the hair dryer between soft clothing for additional protection.

Jacqueline (she/her) covers all things e-commerce in beauty, lifestyle and beyond for the Good Housekeeping Institute . Before joining GH in 2021, she was a style and beauty reviews fellow at Insider, testing viral trends, reviewing sustainable brands and more. She's a graduate of the University of Florida's School of Journalism, with a specialty in magazines and mass communication.

Dori Price is a New York City-based freelance writer and editor and beauty, style and wellness expert who was the Beauty & Fashion Director at Family Circle for 13 years before she joined Good Housekeeping , Prevention and Woman’s Day as a freelance beauty editor. She has also written for WomensHealthMag.com , E lle.com and HealthCentral.com .

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7 travel hair dryers that won't take up your whole suitcase

By Meaghan Kenny and Charley Ward

A trusty travel hair dryer is one beauty essential that's worth a spot on every packing list. As crucial as this tool is for drying and styling hair, it's not exactly the easiest thing to pack – hair dryers are often bulky, heavy, and take up way too much room in your suitcase. Because of this, I used to rely on the hotel hair dryer, which would leave me with damaged, frizzy hair after spending what felt like hours of begrudgingly drying. Now, I pack a portable hair dryer with me no matter where I'm headed.

The best travel hair dryers are lightweight, packable, and get the job done quickly. To help you look and feel your best on every trip without sacrificing any space in your carry-on, we rounded up the best travel hair dryers from Drybar, Revlon, T3, and more. We also made sure to include some dual-voltage hair dryers that are ideal for international travel, so you don't have to worry about blowing a fuse when you're on holiday. We asked our editors for their favourites and scoured the internet for the best-selling hair dryers that weigh next to nothing and perform as well as the ones in the salon.

Read on to find your new go-to hair tool, with options for every hair type.

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Dry Bar Baby Buttercup travel blow dryer

Best for international travel

While I don’t travel with a hair dryer very often, when I do, this lightweight fold-up dryer from Drybar is my go-to companion. It weighs less than a pound and isn’t much bulkier than a pair of tennis shoes. Crucially, its size doesn’t impact the airflow – it’s strong and efficient, so much so that it’s my regular for blow-drying at home, too. I’ve had it for years and it hasn’t let me down yet. Plus, it offers dual voltage, making it safe to use abroad, too. Madison Flager, senior commerce editor

Weight : 360 grams

Shark SmoothStyle Hair Styler

Best styling tool

Okay – this is not the smallest or most lightweight hair dryer on this list. If you’re looking for a compact device to pop in your underseat bag for your next flight, look elsewhere. However, it’s quickly become the tool I cannot live without . Its combo drying/straightening functions have halved the time it takes me to style my hair in the mornings and it’s super easy to use, even for a hair tool novice like me. It heats up quickly and, at just under £100, it’s good value for a product that dries and straightens. While it's larger than some of the other devices in this round-up, packing this allows me to forgo bringing my straighteners, which saves some space, on balance. It's definitely coming on my next trip. Sarah Allard, digital director

Weight: 730 grams

ghd Flight+ Travel Hair Dryer

I tend not to take my hairdryer or tongs on short trips. They’re heavy and I always think I won’t need them – then different climates/water types/shampoo/conditioner enter into the mix and I end up looking like Monica from Friends’ "The One in Barbados" episode. This dryer is the perfect solution. It’s light but powerful, drying my thick unruly hair very quickly and adding a really sleek wave and shine. It comes with a concentrator nozzle and folds at the base to pack easily in a suitcase. There’s also a smart hard shell travel case included. This makes it bulkier to pack, but it features a detachable strap so you can use it as a handbag; a feature I never knew I needed from a hair dryer bag. The cable is slightly shorter than other GHD dryers such as the Helios, but perfectly fine for using at a vanity desk on holiday. Megan Wilkes, art production manager

Weight: 453 grams

Ga.Ma Professional IQ3 hair dryer

Best professional hair dryer

My mom has been using a Gama for years and I finally just got my own. This lightweight hair dryer isn't specifically designed for travel – it's just a really good (like, professional) blow dryer that is nice and seriously packable. The newest model, the IQ3, weighs no more than an iPhone, and has a sleek profile that takes up very little space. I love how it leaves my hair (it's also fairly quiet, and quick to complete the job). What more could you ask for? Megan Spurrell, senior editor

Weight : 284 grams

T3 Afar lightweight hair dryer

Best lightweight hair dryer

This compact hair dryer from T3 boasts impressive capabilities for being such a small tool. It offers three heat settings, two speeds, and a cool shot to lock in shape and volume. It's easy to hold, quiet, and plenty powerful – drying hair quickly while leaving you with shiny, frizz-free locks. It features auto dual voltage and a stowaway folding handle that helps it fit nicely in any suitcase. Meaghan Kenny, associate commerce editor

Weight : 345 grams

Shark FlexStyle Air Drying and Styling System

Best fast-drying tool

The half-the-price alternative to Dyson's swish AirWrap has turned out to be the best hair dryer I've ever tried – drying my very long hair in under 10 minutes with a shiny finish every time. And now, I find myself packing the Shark FlexStyle whenever I'm travelling. I leave its many attachments at home and only bring the slim Styling Concentrator, which helps control where exactly I want to dry. The best part is that the multi-styler can be twisted into an L shape that resembles a classic hair dryer, making it easier to hold and use. When it's time to pack it away, I simply twist the hair tool back into its original shape so it takes up much less suitcase room. Meaghan Kenny, associate commerce editor

Weight : 680 grams

BaByliss Air Wand Hair Dryer, Styler and Straightener All-in-One

Most lightweight multi-styler

This is essentially a budget-friendly version of the Dyson AirWrap, and much more lightweight at only 380 grams. It has two attachments, one with ceramic plates that straightens hair and a curved brush to add volume for a bouncy blow dry look. There’s also a special dual-ionic feature to tame flyaways – handy for when you’re travelling somewhere humid. I have long, thick hair and I was impressed by how quickly this dried it. It’s also very easy to use – I love the brush attachment, it makes flicking out your hair at the bottom and adding volume to roots super simple. The air stream is also far more precise than what you’d get with a standard dryer. My only critique is that it’s a shame there’s not a full round brush to add more volume. Other than that, it’s a great, lightweight hair dryer that is perfect for slinging in a case – the long slim shape doesn’t take up much space at all. Sophie Knight, senior visuals editor

Weight: 380 grams

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