travel hair dryer pack

Search Please fill out this field.
Manage Your Subscription
Give a Gift Subscription
Newsletters
Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

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

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.

It’s superlightweight, 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).

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

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. During testing, 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.

Best for Frizz

Bondiboost sonic dryer.

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 in a hotel room. 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: 4 heat settings | 3 speed settings | 12.32 ounces | 8-foot cord

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 midrange 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, and it also has an auto-cleaning feature. An added bonus: it comes with an adjustable diffuser, a comb nozzle, a smoothing nozzle, and a travel pouch.

The Details: 4 heat settings | 3 speed settings | 10.5 ounces | 1200 watts | Includes travel pouch

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 heat 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.

Best Accessories

Olivia garden high performance professional hair dryer.

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-cleaning function to eradicate any gunk that builds up over time.

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. We also think it's more lightweight and easier to travel with than some blow dry brushes from other brands. When you don't have time to head out to a salon on vacation, this device is an excellent one-stop shop.

The Details: 4 heat settings | 3 speed settings | 1 pound | 4.57 x 12.7 x 7.4 inches | 9-foot cord

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 located on the outside of the handle, which makes it a bit difficult to change the settings when the dryer is in use.

First, we tested 34 of the top hair dryers in our lab, 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 , shoe bag , 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 and fly with it — 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.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

CONFIDENCE, COMMUNITY, AND JOY

Skincare Ingredients A-Z
Skin Concerns
Hair Removal
Moisturizers
Tools and Techniques
Hair Concerns
Hair Styling
Fashion Trends
What to Wear
Accessories
Clothing and Apparel
Celebrities
Product and Brand News
Trends and Innovation
Amazon Picks
Gift Guides
Product Reviews
Mental Health and Mood
The Byrdie Team
Editorial Guidelines
Editorial Policy
Terms of Use and Policies
Privacy Policy

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Hair Products And Tools

The 8 Best Travel Hair Dryers to Pack On Your Next Trip, Tested by Byrdie

Dare we say they'll blow you away?

In This Article

Our Top Picks
What To Look For
Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie / Reese Herrington

Book any hotel or Airbnb, and it’s safe to assume there will be a hair dryer there. It’s a basic amenity, after all, one necessary for getting you out the door and exploring wherever your travels have taken you. But then, there’s that one time that assumption proves false. It’s usually when you need a hair dryer the most—when you’re shortest on time, in the most humid conditions, dressing for your fanciest event. Of course . Don’t risk it. We’re all about investing in a travel-friendly hair dryer to avoid scenarios like that. Since they’re small and mighty, you can easily sneak one into your suitcase and ditch using that weak one at your hotel.

Not all travel hair dryers are created equal, though. That’s why we set out to test a wide range of travel hair dryers, all with different features and at various price points. Our testers evaluated how well they worked (specifically how long it took to dry their hair ), while a panel of experts weighed in on more technical features, such as ergonomics, attachments, and airflow. When all was said and done, we ended up with this list of winning pint-sized options that will barely make a dent in your suitcase.

Best Overall

T3 afar travel size hair dryer.

Bloomingdale's

Very powerful motor and airflow

Has many different heat and speed settings, including a cool-shot button

Doesn’t come with any attachments

Features : 1,500 watts, three heat and two-speed settings, cool-shot button, dual voltage | Wireless: No

T3 is well-known for its wide range of tech-y hot tools, and this travel dryer is no different. It boasts many of the same bells and whistles you’d find on full-size dryers; think a variety of heat and speed settings, a cool-shot button, and built-in dual voltage. Plus, it’s compact to begin with—and even more so given that it can be folded in half. We loved how shiny and smooth it left our strands (credit built-in ionic technology ); our expert panel raved about the convenient button placement and how lightweight it was.

Who It’s For

People with all hair types should try this, as well as those who don’t mind spending a bit more money on a travel dryer.

Best Budget

Conair minipro.

Lightweight

Handle folds up

Emits a strong airflow

Can overheat

Features: 1,200 watts, two heat and speed settings, airflow concentrator, dual voltage, velvet grip handle | Wireless: No

At this price, we truly can’t think of a reason not to pick up this pint-sized hair dryer from Conair, a long-time trusted hair care brand. It’s an Amazon favorite, too; over 3,000 satisfied reviewers repeatedly comment on how lightweight yet powerful it is, with a strong airflow that leads to dry hair in nearly no time. Its functions are pretty basic—it features just two heat and speed settings—but it gets the job done, and it folds up compactly so you can sneak it into your suitcase easily. Just beware: this one can overheat, so it’s best for those who have thinner hair that won’t take long to dry. And, again, the price.

Anyone with thin or fine hair should try this pick (it can get too hot if you have thicker hair that takes longer to dry). It’s also a great pick if you’re on a budget.

Best Foldable

Stylecraft peewee travel dryer.

Helps smooth hair

Folds into compact size

Quality could be better

Features: 1,000 watt micro-motor, built-in stand, airflow concentrator and diffuser, travel bag, dual voltage | Wireless: No

While the quality of this one isn’t particularly impressive, we do very much appreciate the lightweight feel, budget-friendly price, and the fact that it folds perfectly in half, fitting into even the most cramped of suitcases. Also noteworthy: a special Tri-Plex Fusion technology (stay with us here) with keratin, ceramic, and tourmaline for smoothing and shine-enhancing benefits .

Anyone who tends to overpack will appreciate that this can be folded up into a tiny little size. It’s also very affordable and lightweight, too.

Best Dual Voltage

Babylisspro nano titanium travel dryer.

Small, compact size

Includes extra accessories

Only one heat setting

Cord doesn’t retract

Features: 1,000 watts, two heat and speed settings, folding handle, removable filter and stand, dual voltage | Wireless: No

Never stress about packing an adapter or frying your dryer again; with a travel-sized dual voltage option, you can dry your hair to perfection on all your international adventures. Like this one. It’s powerful, with a strong airflow that gets you out the door (and to a museum, historic site, wine bar—you name it) in no time. As mighty as it is, it’s still super compact and lightweight, so it will barely contribute to your suitcase’s heaviness and leaves more space for souvenirs too. We also love that the back pops off for easy cleaning. There are downsides, though: there’s only one heat setting—and it gets hot —and the cord doesn’t retract.

Who It’s For

Frequent international travelers will appreciate the fact that this is a dual-voltage choice.

Best for Fast Drying

7magic fast-drying hair dryer.

Dries hair incredibly fast

Has three temperature settings

Ionic technology protects hair from heat damage

No dual voltage

Features: 1,600 watts, two speed, and three temperature settings, detachable air filter, overheating safety protection setting, storage bag | Wireless: No

“Fast-drying” is in the name of this foldable hair dryer for a reason. It’s that efficient—30 percent faster than a standard hair dryer, according to the brand. Even the longest, thickest locks will be dry in just five to eight minutes. Got short hair ? You’ll be ready for the day in just a minute or two. Its three temperature settings, two-speed options, and ionic technology, which protects hair from heat damage and dryness, all helped earn it our top spot. We also love how lightweight and compact it is, which is essential for ensuring it’s travel-friendly and that the price won’t give you sticker shock. Keep this hair dryer for domestic travels only, though, since it doesn’t have dual voltage.

If you like lots of different settings, pick this choice. It’s also great if you have thicker hair , as it works super fast.

Best for Curly Hair

Revlon airflow control dryer.

Comes with both a concentrator and a diffuser

Has ceramic tourmaline technology to fight frizz

Can be hard to pop on diffuser

Features : 1875 watts, built-in rotating concentrator, curl-enhancing diffuser | Wireless: No

Curly hair gals, this one's for you. If you rock spirals, this travel hair dryer checks all the must-haves. There’s a built-in concentrator that directs airflow (it rotates so that it can be vertical or horizontal), which is part of why we found this to be very powerful, with strong and even airflow. It also has ceramic tourmaline technology to fight static (a must for those with curls), not to mention a variety of heat and speed settings, as well as a cool shot button.

Those with curls will like the many features of this dryer, namely a diffuser and ceramic tourmaline technology.

Best Lightweight

L'ange le styliste luxe digital salon dryer.

Slim and sleek design

Comes with three magnetic attachments

Airflow could be stronger

Features : Magnetic attachments, LCD temperature display, four heat and three speed settings | Wireless: No

Lightweight is an understatement: This little guy weighs in at less than a pound. (In fact, our experts said it was the lightest dryer they’d ever used.) Still, despite its size, it manages to offer some pretty unique features—think magnetic attachments, an LCD temperature display, a super quiet motor, and more. While the airflow could be a bit more powerful, the shape of the dryer does make the airflow very targeted and concentrated.

Fans of tech-y hot tools will appreciate all the bells and whistles that this blow-dryer has to offer, as well as anyone who finds that their arm gets tired of holding heavier driers.

TYMO HighSpeed Hair Dryer

Extremely quiet

Sleek and streamlined design

Auto-cleaning feature

Button placement isn’t particularly convenient

Features : 1,200 watts, digital LCD display, four heat and three speed settings, magnetic attachments | Wireless: No

Not only is this super lightweight, but it’s also very quiet, which is ideal if you’re traveling with a companion that you don’t want to disturb while you style your hair. While the long and skinny shape isn’t exactly what we’re used to, we found it easy to maneuver and hold. It does only get up to 250 degrees, meaning it’s probably best reserved for those with fine to medium hair, but the variety of heat and speed settings, as well as three magnetic attachments, further help you customize your drying experience.

Fine to medium hair types and textures should try this dryer, given that it only heats up to 250 degrees and may not be strong enough for heavier hair types.

What to Look For in a Travel Hair Dryer

Size: Planning to take your hair dryer in your carry-on? Make sure it's compact so it won't take up valuable space. You can also choose one that's foldable, which will also help keep precious suitcase space for important things (like all the outfits you'll need!).
Weight: Your dryer shouldn't weigh too much—in case you need to throw it into an overweight suitcase. Another thing to keep in mind? How heavy it'll be if you need to carry it around in a bag all day. Stick to under five pounds, if possible, to make the most of the in-flight weight limit (and prevent yourself from carrying a tremendously heavy weekend bag).
Voltage: If you're planning to travel abroad, make sure your dryer has dual voltage included. Without dual voltage, you'll have to pack an adapter—which can be a costly addition. And if you choose to forgo it, you could get lucky, or you can fry your hair dryer in the outlet.

The name says it all: a hair dryer is intended to dry wet or damp hair. Instead of waiting for your hair to air dry, which can take what feels like forever , a hair dryer can speed up the getting ready process. How fast, exactly, depends on your hair’s length and thickness, how smooth you want it, and how patient you’re feeling. With different attachments or nozzles, a hair dryer can also be used to create a sleek blowout or to diffuse curls, too. And you don't need to spend a fortune for a good hair dryer, travel or otherwise. There are plenty of affordable hair dryers .

There’s no way around it: the combination of heat and hair can lead to damage. Any heat styling tool—including curling wands, straight irons, and, yes, hair dryers—may cause breakage, dryness, and dullness, so make sure you take precautions before using any heat tools. One way to reduce the likelihood of damage? Apply a heat protectant to your strands before drying, curling, or straightening. While no heat styling tools are particularly healthy for your hair, with proper (and not too frequent) usage, you can limit a hair dryer’s harm to your hair.

Hair dryers’ lifespans vary, but in general, expect one to last around 800 hours. Depending on how often (and how long) you use it, that could mean several years. Just be sure to be gentle with it, storing it safely. Hopefully, while traveling, the airlines’ bag carriers will be gentle with your suitcase, too.

Full-time freelance writer Megan McCarty has been writing about the best of the best of fashion and beauty for over 15 years, and her work can be seen in InStyle, Domino, Architectural Digest, Bustle, and more. Often, she works from various locations around the world, so she’s well acquainted with travel hair dryers. To date, she’s only fried one from forgetting to switch the voltage while abroad. (Oops.) Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has nearly fifteen years of experience in the beauty industry, writing for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. She’s written for Byrdie since 2020, covering hair, makeup, skin, health, wellness, fashion, and more. She’s learned the hard way that it’s always best to BYO a travel dryer with you.

12 Best Travel Hair Dryers to Take on Your Next Vacation

Dry hair in a flash.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

We hate to break it to you, but if you’re someone who needs that perfect blow dry every time you wash your hair, nothing beats bringing your own—especially considering how many people use the same hotel blow dryer. “Hotel hair dryers are full of bacteria if the hair dryers aren't cleaned regularly,” says Julien Farel, hairstylist and founder of Julien Farel Restore Salon, Spa & Fitness in New York City. The good news is that there are some great travel hair dryers on the market you won’t hesitate to make room for in your suitcase.

When shopping for a travel hair dryer, there are certain qualities that you should keep an eye out for. “You want to look for something that has a small size and is lightweight for easy travel. If you travel abroad, you will want dual voltage since America and Europe use different voltages. Temperature and speed control are still important in a travel dryer, and a dryer with a long cord is also important since the outlets could be out of reach when traveling,” explains Jenna Spino , a stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago.

Top picks for the best hair dryers in 2024

Best for Shiny Hair

T3 fit compact hair dryer.

Best Compact

Babylisspro nano titanium travel dryer.

Most Versatile

Dyson supersonic hair dryer.

At the end of the day, you still don’t want to sacrifice performance. We polled hair experts and customer reviews to find the 12 best ones. The best travel hair dryers we’ve assembled for you here will do everything you need them to do—whether that’s drying your hair as quickly as possible or helping you eliminate frizz. Ahead, find our favorite finds.

T3’s travel hair packs a lot into a small package. “This dryer is super powerful for being so small and lightweight. It features ionic technology to reduce frizz and add shine. It is also super quiet with multiple heat/speed settings,” says Spino. Those who need a diffuser can pick one up separately, and the nine-foot cord means you won’t be struggling to reach every single hair.

Wattage: 1600 watts

Ulta rating: 4.2/5 stars

An ELLE Editor says: “Vacation is the time when all my different personalities come out to play. Do I feel like being a beach wave goddess? Or is a silky straight middle part the vibe? Whatever hairstyle I choose, having my handy T3 travel hair dryer is a non-negotiable. As an over-packer, I love how compact this tool is and all the settings it comes with to leave room for my hot comb and flat iron.”— Nerisha Penrose , ELLE.com beauty commerce editor

“This little dryer is perfect for travel of any kind. It is super lightweight and has a folding handle perfect for packing. The wattage is 1000, which means it can be safe for carrying on planes, and it also has dual voltage. I'm very impressed with its power, and it lasts forever,” says Spino. The small but mighty dryer also features nano-titanium technology to smooth away any flyaways and frizz, and its concentrator gives you plenty of control.

Wattage: 1000 watts

Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “Wow! This little dryer puts out the heat. Perfect for my uses and I find I use it on low 95% of the time. It is small and well made. I’d buy another one if I ever need it, and I would also not hesitate to buy it as a gift for the travelers in my life or those that also have small bathroom spaces.”

If you want the best of the best and don’t mind dropping the big bucks to get it, Dyson’s the way to go. “Dyson is my go-to when it comes to traveling. It’s very light, compact, quiet, but powerful enough to blow dry hair in no time,” says Iudina. It comes with five attachments, so you’ll be prepared for anything .

Wattage: 1,600 watts

Ulta rating: 4.6/5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “Whenever I’ve used a Dyson hair dryer or had one used on me, I’m amazed at how quickly my hair dries. I’m being so serious when I say that it cuts my drying time by half—and I swear it feels softer afterward, too.” — Carol Lee , ELLE.com associate beauty e-commerce writer

Trademark Beauty Speedy Blo Powerful and Lightweight Blow Dryer

This dryer from Speedy Blo is effortless to handle and gentle on your hair to keep any heat damage to a minimum. “With this dryer being so compact and lightweight, it’s an easy one to pack when traveling. This one has three heat settings, a cool shot button and 1800 watts of power, meaning it’s powerful, and the motor has a longer life. It’s rare you can find such a powerful quality dryer under $100,” adds Spino. Sleek hair on a budget is within your grasp.

Wattage: 1875 watts

Trademark Beauty rating: 5/5 stars

A Trademark Beauty reviewer says: “Love this blow dryer so so much! Not only does it do an amazing job of quickly drying my hair when I am in a hurry, but it’s also super cute. The attachments make it great for all hair types.”

Harry Josh Pro Tools Women’s Pro Dryer 2000

Professionals and regular consumers alike adore this French-made hair dryer. “It’s a bit heavier than Dyson, but small and powerful. It also has a slightly curved handle, which might be more comfortable for blow drying your own hair,” explains Iudina.

Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “Where do I start with my love of this hair dryer? I’ve used this for years and won’t go on any travel without it. It is my go to hair dryer, especially since I have long and thick hair. Other dryers fall extremely short of this.”

L'ange Le Styliste Luxe Digital Salon Dryer

The last thing you want when you’re traveling is a bad hair day. L’ange's dryer makes getting a static-free, salon-worthy blowout a breeze. It packs a punch with four heat settings and three speed settings, and it weighs less than a pound!

Wattage: 1500 watts

An Ulta reviewer says: “It’s great for travel as it’s small, and if you have plenty of hair, it will take around 10 to 15 minutes to totally blow it out.”

Ghd Flight+ Travel Hair Dryer

Ghd pulled out all the stops for this powerhouse dryer, which is equipped with frizz-fighting ionic technology, a safeguard feature that automatically turns off the hair dryer when it’s too close to your hair, and 77 percent of the power of Ghd’s beloved Air hairdryer. It nestles perfectly in the included travel case, so you can tote it around worry-free.

Wattage: 1300 watts

Ghd rating: 4.6/5 stars

A Ghd reviewer says: “I bought this for my friends 40th birthday and she loves it. She travels up and down the country and this has come in handy for her when she’s in hotels with rubbish hairdryers. The Ghd Hairdryer is super quick and often no need to use straighteners.”

Conair INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Travel Hair Dryer

Just like many of the other best travel hair dryers, this budget-friendly option has a fold-up handle, so it’ll take up the least amount of space possible. Other top-tier features include shine-encouraging ionic technology, an impressive motor that cuts down on drying time, and a cold shot button to cool hair quickly and lock in your style.

An Amazon reviewer says: “This dryer is lightweight an idea for travel. It has a lot of power when blow drying you hair. It was a nice Christmas present to my teen. She has curly hair so the accessories meant something to us. It works well to diffuse her hair.”

Drybar Baby Buttercup Travel Blow-Dryer

Ever get frustrated because your hair refuses to dry evenly? This travel hair dryer is designed to solve that issue; the device’s wave heater allows for even heat distribution and airflow. Even better, international travelers will want to snatch this one up—it’s dual-voltage, so it’ll work just fine overseas, too.

Wattage: 1200 watts

Amazon rating: 4/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “Works just as I hoped. Used this once at a hotel that had this brand. Worked so well I had to buy one myself. Comes with a little travel pouch—great for storage. I don’t like drying my hair with a hair dryer but this does the trick without making my hair feel crunchy afterwards.”

REVLON 1875W Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer

When it comes down to the basics—that is, drying your hair as evenly and as quickly as possible—the Revlon travel hair dryer is a pro. It gets the job done without any bells or whistles.

An Amazon reviewer says: “The Revlon 1875W Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer has become my ultimate travel companion, providing convenience and efficiency in a compact design! This hair dryer is perfect for on-the-go use and has quickly become an essential part of my travel essentials.”

Julien Farel Blowdryer 1875 Watt

This is the exact model used by the celebrity hairstylists at the Julien Farel Restore Salon & Spa in New York City. The hair dryer has everything you need to create shiny, voluminous locks at home or in a hotel bathroom: overheating protection, three heat settings (including a cool shot setting), and two speeds.

Our expert says: “It's full-size but not overweight and comes with a nozzle and travel bag. The white gloss finish looks great on any countertop.” — Jackson Simmonds , advanced stylist and brand ambassador at Julien Farel Restore Salon & Spa

FHI Heat Innovator The Pro Power Speed Dryer

When you have thick or hard-to-dry hair, drying your tresses can be a real chore. Not only does this dryer’s ergonomic handle make it comfortable to hold, but it also delivers a powerful flow of air that encourages volume and eliminates dampness in record time.

Wattage: 1700 watts

FHI Heat rating: 5/5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “I’m ashamed to say that I’m most likely to skip arm day, which means I always appreciate a lightweight device. This one, with its sleek design, definitely fits the bill, and it’s pretty quiet to boot.” — Carol Lee, ELLE.com associate beauty e-commerce writer

Meet the Experts

Julien Farel is a hairstylist and the founder of Julien Farel Restore Salon and Spa .

Jenna Spino is a stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago

Olya Iudina a stylist at IGK NYC.

Jackson Simmonds , advanced stylist and brand ambassador at Julien Farel Restore Salon & Spa .

What should you avoid in a travel hair dryer?

According to Spino, you should watch out for airline restrictions—typically, companies only allow hair dryers up to 1600 watts in your carry-on bag. “Also, avoid dryers that only have an on/off button because then you can’t control the speed or temperature of the dryer,” she adds. Meanwhile, Iudina warns against “heavy, big-sized dryers. An extra long cord is probably also not necessary,” she says.

Another vital piece of advice for international jet setters: “Always check voltage compatibility and ensure your hair dryer is dual-voltage or has the correct voltage settings for your destination to avoid damage or safety issues,” emphasizes Farel. Different countries use different voltages, so plugging in a hair dryer that doesn’t align with that country’s voltage could damage the dryer and could even be dangerous. Thankfully, using a dual-voltage dryer or utilizing a voltage converter or transformer with a single-voltage dryer should do the trick.

What is the best way to store your hair dryer when traveling?

“It's advised to pack your hair dryer in your carry-on luggage to prevent damage in checked baggage and for quick access during your journey.” After all, you never know when you might have a hair emergency and need a quick fix in the airport bathroom.

You also want to make sure your hair dryer stays safe and secure throughout your travels. “If you’ve got a travel hair dryer that comes with a case, that’s wonderful. If it did not, you can simply wrap the dryer in a towel before packing. Make sure to wrap the cord neatly so it does not get tangled or frayed, and keep the dryer clean and dry,” explains Spino.

Why trust ELLE Beauty?

As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, Carol Lee spoke with experts about the best dryers on the market and how to shop for them. Lee also tested a few top-rated products and perused reviews for dozens of others, assessing each on their features and customer evaluations.

Hairstyles & Haircuts 2024

The Best Bob Hairstyles for 2024

The 13 Best Clarifying Shampoos

13 Keratin Shampoos for Stronger, Shinier Hair

The 10 Best Hair Dryers to Shop on Amazon

How Julianne Goldmark is Embracing Change

We Tested Fenty Hair—It’s for Everyone

The 5 Best Summer Hair Trends to Try ASAP

Women Over 40: Brooke Shields Is Focused On You

The 9 Best Protein Treatments for Healthy Hair

The 14 Best Low Porosity Hair Products

The Best Color-Depositing Conditioners

Pack Hacker is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Best Travel Hair Dryer Picks: 9 Actually Packable Hair Dryers

From options that fold like Olympic gymnasts to ones that switch automatically from U.S. to European power, we’ve got the best travel hair dryer for any trip.

When we’re heading out on vacation, it can be nice to cut loose and chill out, but whether humidity makes your locks poof out like you stuck your finger in an electric outlet or you need to get fancier for your best friend’s wedding, you can’t always air dry every day of a trip. And if you’ve ever been counting on a hotel’s dryer just to arrive and find it broken or nonexistent, you know how essential it is to have one of your own.

But what do you look for in the best travel hair dryer? While we want something packable that won’t add much weight to a travel backpack , we also want something comfortable to use yet powerful, which won't cause more frizz than we’re trying to blow away. Whether you need one that can handle international travel or dry your curls in high humidity, we’re rounding up the best travel hair dryers to take the guesswork out of taming your tresses on your next trip.

Why You Should Trust Us

If you’ve seen our staff photo , you know that many of us here at Pack Hacker are rocking long hair, and it takes more time and effort to dry than short locks. We’ve been intimate with blow dryers and the struggles of using unfamiliar tools to get the look we want for decades, so when it came time to pick the best travel hair dryer, we had a good idea of what to look for.

We put in hours of research to find the best travel hair dryer for thick hair, waves, and curls, as well as ones that add volume to thin hair and tame humidity-induced frizz. Along the way, we found more than a half-dozen options that would be good travel companions for any trip. We tested them on different hair types in tiny bathrooms with little counter space (not because that’s how we like to live but to simulate the cramped conditions of a hotel or cruise ship bathroom, dear reader! You’re welcome!). We let the strengths and weaknesses of each dryer shine through without fancy tools, focusing on packability and how fast each dryer got the job done.

How We Tested It

Best Travel Hair Dryer Picks Dryers on Counter

Test 1: In testing the eight travel hair dryers on this list, we focused on a few things, beginning with how long it takes to dry a head of medium-length hair. We used testers with thin and thick hair since knowing that it only takes five minutes to dry won’t do you much good if you have locks that would make Rapunzel proud. For each travel hair dryer, we started with a head of shower-damp hair that had been squeezed out and patted with a towel, then clicked go on our stopwatch. In the description of each product, you’ll find how many minutes it took to dry a specific type of hair so you can choose which is best for you.

Test 2: Secondly, we measured the temperature of the air coming out of the blow dryer. Holding a thermometer just an inch away from the nozzle, we turned each dryer on high and held it in place until the thermometer stopped creeping upward. The temps we indicate in each section below are the maximum readings; in most cases, the dryer dipped significantly after reaching that top temp and continued to cycle up and down while running. That’s good because you probably shouldn’t leave a 200-degree blower pointed at your hair for very long if you don’t want to fry your hair!

Using high heat too often can cause damage by breaking down the proteins in the hair shaft, says Nicole Sylvester , a Paul Michel Color Expert certified in Olaplex and Aqua Hair Extensions. There’s a good chance you’ll know it's too hot if your hair starts smoking, she said, although product buildup or improperly washed hair can smoke, as well.

Best Travel Hair Dryer Picks Thermometer

Test 3: We also measured the travel hair dryers when folded up, including their cords, since the dimensions you see on product pages are sometimes confusing or, at worst, deceiving. Even the best travel hair dryer won’t do you much good if it doesn’t fit in your bag!

Of course, we’ll also cover things like how comfortable it is to hold, what attachments come with it, and whether you can use it overseas. So, without further ado, let’s jump in!

Conair Worldwide Travel Dryer
BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer
Revlon Travel Hair Dryer
BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Bambino Compact Dryer
Wavytalk Portable Hair Dryer
Conair Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer
Panasonic nanoe Compact Oscillating Quick-Dry Hair Dryer
Beurer HC25 Travel Ionic Hair Dryer

Best for: Dual-voltage use

Folded dimensions: 10.5 in x 5.5 in x 3.5 in (25.4 cm x 13.97 cm x 8.89 cm)

You can’t just take your trusty hair dryer from home if you’re traveling abroad, even if it would fit in your suitcase. Instead, you’ll need a travel hair dryer with dual-voltage capabilities to switch between 110-125 in the U.S. and 220-250 in Europe. While there are many options, we like the Conair Worldwide Travel Dryer because we don’t have to remember to make the switch before we plug it in. This travel hair dryer detects the voltage where you are and switches automatically, with a green LED indicator readout for 125V or a blue 240V for European outlets lighting up on the side of the dryer, depending on where you are.

We put it to use on a head of thinner, mid-back length hair, and all told, it took about seven minutes to dry. The Worldwide Travel Dryer hit a top temp of 172 F (77.77 C) and has pretty good airflow, so we don’t feel as if it’s whispering to us from across the room but actually trying to blow your hair dry.

It includes a concentrator to help you aim the airflow where you want it to go, and it makes a good connection when it clicks into place. However, we get a smooth do even without it, so you may want to leave it at home to save space. Speaking of which, the nozzle on this dryer folds to lay against the handle, saving 3 inches of space in your bag, which is nice since it’s one of the larger travel hair dryers on this list. On the other hand, it’s comfortable to hold.

The dryer detects the type of plug you’re using and switches voltage automatically
It has three heat settings and two speed settings
The nozzle stays warm for some time after turning it off
Even though the voltage adjusts automatically, you’ll need a travel adapter to plug it into European outlets

Best for: International travel

Folded dimensions: 9 in x 3.5 in x 2.5 in (22.86 cm x 8.89 cm x 6.35 cm)

If you need to cut weight because you’re hopping across Europe on budget airlines or filling a duffle bag to hit the gym after work, you’ll probably want to bring a tiny blow dryer that packs a real punch. Many international travelers recommend the Nano Titanium Travel Dryer from BaBylissPRO because it’s easy to switch the voltage between U.S. and European voltage with the tab on the front and because this baby won’t take up much room in your travel backpack. It’s one of the smallest hair dryers we got our hands on, even before you fold it!

However, while the ideal hair drying temperature is somewhere around 125 F and 150 F (51.66 C-65.55 C), the Nano Titanium skyrocketed up to 200 F (93.33 C)! It didn’t stay there for long and dropped to a temperature closer to 180 F (82.22 C) for most of our test, but it did feel extremely hot on our tester’s head and ears. On the other hand, it dried her thick, below-shoulder-length hair in six minutes, which is faster than the non-travel dryer she uses regularly. And there is a low-speed option for a less intense blast of air, though there’s no specific heat setting. It includes a concentrator to pop onto the end, but it almost feels too big for the nozzle and is very loose.

An extra hot hair dryer can damage hair over time, says Nicole Sylvester, who has been styling hair for seven years, causing breakage, split ends, and dryness, so we think this is a travel hair dryer best used for a few days or a week at a time, not full-time.

However, the high heat and powerful airflow make it one of the best travel hair dryers for getting ready quickly. So, if you’re in a rush, this may be the one for you.

It’s super small and lightweight, yet powerful
It gives off more heat than nearly any other blow dryer we’ve tried
You may want to leave the concentrator behind, as it doesn’t stay well on the end of the nozzle
The folded-up cord is almost as big as the rest of the hair dryer

Best for: Packable foldability

Folded dimensions: 11 in x 4.5 in x 3.5 in (27.94 in x 11.43 cm x 8.89 cm)

Some of us are very committed to a certain hand feel from our hair dryer and don’t want to make sacrifices for travel. The Revlon Travel Hair Dryer feels a lot like a traditional model, but its nozzle can fold down to take up less space in your luggage. Unfolded, it has great ergonomics and a cord with good reach, and is just as powerful as our everyday model, too.

It comes with a concentrator that locks into place nicely, yet is easy to remove and leave behind if you don’t need it, and reached a top temp of 175 F (79.44 C) in our temperature test. That dried our thin-haired tester’s hair in five minutes, flat, which is about how long a traditional dryer takes.

While the handle is nice to hold, we wish we had the same great things to say about the toggle switch to turn it to low, high, or off. It’s hard to use and often skips right past off in the center to low or high instead. Luckily, we only blew the tissue box off the ledge and not something more breakable, but it’s something to keep in mind. While it probably gets easier with practice, this isn’t necessarily the blow dryer you’ll use daily, so that practice may take some time.

You get all the comforts of a traditional hair dryer with a folding design
The ceramic coating inside is good for reducing frizz
We’ve heard reports that the dual-voltage function isn’t always reliable, so this may not be the best travel hair dryer for Europe
The nozzle remains hot for quite a while after use, so you won’t want to repack it right away

BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Bambino Compact Dryer

Best for: Lightweight travel

Folded dimensions: 8 in x 5 in x 2.5 in (20.32 cm x 12.7 cm x 6.35 cm)

When looking for the best travel hair dryer, who do you ask? Salon specialists, of course! Several of them recommend the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Bambino Compact Dryer, which is quite small, as any Italian grandma would tell you the name suggests. It’s the same size as the Nano Titanium Travel Dryer ; it just doesn’t fold. Frankly, when a blow dryer gets this tiny, we can do without the folding mechanism, and we think that may be why it’s so long-lasting. You don’t have to worry about wires kinking over time if they’re not stressed each time you pack your bag, and it’s OK to take it to Europe because it has a dual-voltage setting.

Regardless of why users haven’t had issues with its longevity, we like its powerful airflow. It, combined with a top temperature of 178 F (81.11 C), dried a head of thick hair in eight minutes. It lacks any temperature settings and just toggles between low and high speeds, but it’s pretty comfortable to hold, with indentations where your fingers can rest, so we don’t have any issue with cramping hands, even though it’s so tiny. This compact hair dryer is also a great choice for bathrooms that lack storage space.

It’s recommended by hair stylists
Unlike other models that break quickly, this one has worked for a long time
It doesn’t fold but is still one of the smallest travel hair dryers we’ve found
You’ll want to keep it moving while you dry your hair to keep your head from getting too warm

Best for: Curly hair

Folded dimensions: 8 in x 4 in x 3 in (20.32 cm x 10.16 cm x 7.62 cm)

Curly girls (and guys) have different needs than their straight-haired friends, but it’s not always easy to find a travel hair dryer capable of handling that type of hair. The Waveytalk Portable Hair Dryer comes with a large diffuser and a small concentrator, so you can bring one hair dryer to share among everyone in your group, no matter what type of hair they have. It isn’t the most powerful dryer we tested, and it took our tester with thin, wavy hair about nine and a half minutes to dry her entire head using the diffuser. Wavytalk claims it has five-minute rapid drying, but we think that’s only true for concentrated air on thinner hair.

We got this hair dryer for the diffuser, though, and that attachment works well, as long as you’re careful to direct your hair into its wide opening. However, this travel hair dryer has a short nozzle for packability, and if your longer hair falls along the side, it can get caught in the back of the dryer (ouch!). It’s pretty easy to avoid once you recognize the issue, though, so we’re telling you here!

This travel hair dryer reached a high temp of 160 F (71.11 C) according to our thermometer, so it will take a little extra time to dry your tresses, especially while using the diffuser. But if that’s the tool you need to look your best while traveling, we think the extra few minutes are worth it. Just be aware that this is not a dual-voltage device, so you’ll have to pass on this if you want to take your curly hair to Paris or Rome (or bring a travel adapter that converts voltage ).

It comes with a diffuser for drying curly or wavy hair
There’s an included drawstring pouch to help you keep the attachments and the dryer together in your bag
The concentrator is surprisingly hard to remove without some sort of extra grip, yet the diffuser pops off easily
Longer hair can get sucked into the back of the dryer if you’re not careful to direct it toward the diffuser

Conair Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer

Best for: Budget buy

Folded dimensions: 8 in x 4 in x 2.5 in (20.32 cm x 10.16 cm x 6.35 cm)

Would you believe us if we said that you could get one of the best travel hair dryers we’ve had our hands on for less than $20? Well, you’d better because the Conair Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer retails for less than $17 at the time of writing, yet does a great job of drying hair. Whether you fold it or not, it’s easy to pack for nearly any trip and has dual-voltage capabilities for travel to Europe. Just be sure to turn the switch on the front before you turn it on, and bring your own travel adapter—it still has a standard U.S. plug.

This travel hair dryer reaches a top temp of 180 F (82.22 C) and got our tester’s thin hair dry in five and a half minutes, which isn’t bad at all. It doesn’t feel too hot on your head, either. Plus, we can get a little extra volume along with a silky smooth finish with a simple round bristle brush—no extra gels, creams, or fancy tools. Along with functioning just as well as models twice its size, the small handle feels great to hold. It’s not super skinny and is ergonomically shaped, just like our favorite hair dryer back home.

It’s super small and lightweight, so it’s comfortable to hold even with weak hands or wrists
This dryer feels very powerful for its size
You don’t really save a ton of space by folding it; it’s more that the dimensions are reallocated
It’s as loud as a full-size dryer

Panasonic nanoe Compact Oscillating Quick-Dry Hair Dryer

Best for: Premium features

Folded dimensions: 9 in x 5.5 in x 3 in (22.86 cm x 13.97 cm x 7.62 cm)

We don’t always bring along attachments when traveling with a hair dryer, but you may want to squeeze the nifty oscillating nozzle on the Panasonic nanoe into your travel backpack or toiletry bag . Instead of having to wave your hand back and forth over your head, this nifty nozzle with built-in fins does it for you. We find that you have to have the fins running vertically for the air to make them move properly, but once you do, it’s pretty amazing to use. However, while it’s not too loud for those around you, it can sound a little like a helicopter in your own ear—especially if you direct the air right at them. If that gets annoying, you can lock the fins into place or remove the attachment entirely.

The nanoe™ technology reportedly takes moisture from the air to penetrate your hair shaft, which should combine with the oscillation for a gentler drying experience, but our thick-haired tester didn't really feel a difference in her hair after using this travel hair dryer. It’s definitely less damaging simply because it only reaches a top temp of 147 F (63.88 C), yet it still dried a shower-damp head of hair in about eight minutes and 40 seconds. That may make it the best travel hair dryer to take if you’ll be traveling for some time because its size and shape are closer to standard blow dryers, but don’t bring it to Europe; it doesn’t include a dual-voltage switch.

The oscillating nozzle is super unique and works well to eliminate hot spots
It’s easy to remove the nozzle if you want to leave attachments behind
If you turn the nozzle the wrong way, the oscillating feature won’t move properly
The noise may make users feel like they’re standing next to a helicopter

Best for: Frizzy hair

Folded dimensions: 9 in x 5 in x 3 in (22.86 cm x 12.7 cm x 7.62 cm)

If you have hair that frizzes in humidity, you’ll want to pick a travel hair dryer that can try to smooth it out. Blow dryers with ionic technology, like the Beurer Travel Ionic Hair Dryer, seal the cuticles to reduce frizz and enhance your hair’s shine. Our tester’s thick hair definitely looks sleek and shiny after using this hair dryer, although it took about eight minutes to dry her whole head. We were actually surprised to see the number on the stopwatch wasn’t higher, though, because the dryer only hits a top temp of 150F (10C) and doesn’t seem to blow that strongly.

You can add this to your vacation packing list if you’re looking for the best hair dryer for international travel because it has a voltage switch. You’ll have to use your own travel adapter to plug it in, though that’s the case with most dual-voltage hair dryers. You’ll also want to ensure everyone in your room is awake before turning it on because it’s rather loud, especially for how lightly it blows.

The concentrator is easy to remove if you don’t need it
There’s a loop on the handle where you can hang it
It only has two speed settings, with no option for low and high temperatures
After about five minutes of use, it started to feel very hot

No matter the best travel hair dryer for you, we think any of these will give you a better look than just throwing your wet locks up in a messy bun or ponytail. Don’t get us wrong; we love a good pony, and don’t judge a bun by its holder. On some occasions, we just need a little more. You’ll have no trouble finding an option here to suit your style, whether you’re a curly girl or looking to amp up the volume.

May 16, 2024

Author: Kristyne Defever

Kristyne loves theme parks, tropical islands, and hitting the road in the camper with her family. Whether running through Walt Disney World, walking the shores of Lake Michigan, or hiking the Smoky Mountains, she's happiest exploring the outdoors. She enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her husband, daughter, dog, and cat.

Search Please fill out this field.
Newsletters
Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Hair Products & Tools

The 14 Best Travel Hair Dryers for a Fabulous Blowout On the Fly

Just because you’re traveling doesn’t mean you have to leave a good hair behind.

In This Article

Our Top Picks

What to Keep in Mind

Your questions, answered, why shop with us.

InStyle / Brian Kopinski

Being both beauty and travel editors has taught us many important lessons. But, perhaps this is the most valuable of them all: Hotel blow dryers are not it. Fortunately, tech has only improved and nowadays, wherever we are in the world, we can give ourselves a gorgeous blowout in minutes with a hair dryer that is lighter and much smaller – but just as powerful – as the one we leave at home. And despite their compact size, these next-gen travel hair dryers don't compromise hair health and some are even designed for specific hair types, like curly, thick or damaged hair, with settings to protect delicate strands.

“While travel blow dryers are often smaller and more compact, they typically have everything regular dryers have,” explains master stylist and founder of Yvey Salon , Yvey Valcin. “Despite the size differences, they work very well and you can get nearly the same results that you would get from your regular blow dryer.”

Best Overall

Chi 1875 series advanced ionic compact hair dryer.

What We Love: This blow dryer works exceptionally well on all hair textures, including thick and coarse.

What We Don’t Love: This device does not come with a travel bag.

This small but mighty Chi blow dryer has an 1875-watt motor to dry hair in no time, but it also features a ceramic heater that offers even heat distribution, which ultimately helps minimize damage. On top of that, the innovative tool produces negative ions that smooth and seal cuticles, while still giving hair volume and body. Plus, it comes with a removable air concentrator nozzle – a wide, flat attachment that directs airflow into smaller, more concentrated areas of your hair to help you style with ease – that can be used to create ultra-sleek blowouts. As for the best part? There are three different heat settings – lukewarm, medium, and hot – which means users can customize the heat depending on their preference. Pro tip: Top off your style with the cool shot button to lock in looks and help further eliminate frizz.

As a fun bonus, this device has a blue LED light that creates cleaner air during the styling process by decreasing bacterial buildup inside the hair dryer. With so many stellar features there’s a lot to love about this compact dryer, but we do wish it came with a travel bag to make storing it a tad easier.

Watts: 1875 | Heat Settings: 3 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Cold shot button, included concentrator and diffuser, blue LED light | Weight: 2 pounds

Best Budget

Lura mini portable travel hair dryer.

What We Love: When folded, this affordable blow dryer is smaller than an iPhone.

What We Don’t Love: The diffuser attachment is very small, so it may take a long time to adequately dry curly hair.

Not only can you create various styles with this tiny tool, which is smaller than an iPhone, using its diffuser and concentrator, but it also features two heat settings (low and high), two speeds (slow and fast), and 1200 watts to get the job done quickly. That said, the diffuser attachment is very small, too, so it may take a long time to adequately dry curly hair with it.

Complete with a shiny silver travel bag as well as a two-pin plug adapter that works in most European countries, the dryer comes with everything you’ll need to style your hair from anywhere in the world.

Watts: 1200 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, diffuser, travel case, adapter plug | Weight: 0.68 pounds

Best with Folding Handle

T3 afar travel dryer.

What We Love: This blow dryer has three heat settings, two speed settings, and a cool shot feature.

What We Don’t Love: While this tool quickly and efficiently dries thinner hair, it can take a while for thicker, coarser hair to get dry.

This tiny tool has a foldable handle that makes it easy to store, as well as an automatic dual voltage feature that adapts based on where you are. “It's the perfect travel companion, ready to save your hair from bad hair days no matter where in the world you find yourself,” says master stylist and founder of Gregga LA , Gregga Prothero . “It may be small, but it packs a powerful punch, delivering fast and efficient drying while reducing frizz and static.”

Thanks to three heat settings (which include warm, hot, and an innovative cool shot feature that locks in styles) as well as two speed settings (low and high), you can easily customize the settings to fit your hair’s texture, length, and dampness. (It’s worth noting that this tool doesn’t blow out extremely hot air, so if you have thick, coarse, or very long hair, you might have to spend extra time drying it.) It also has an ion generator that infuses the air with negative ions to help reduce static and frizz while also smoothing the hair cuticle to ensure a glossy, high-shine finish. As if that wasn’t enough, it comes with a cute vegan leather travel case and a clip-on concentrator.

Watts: 1500 | Heat Settings: 3 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, cool shot, travel case | Weight: 0.68 pounds

Best for Long Hair

Mane this totally blows ionic compact hair dryer.

What We Love: Between its diffuser, nozzle, and wide-tooth comb attachment, thicker hair types have options whether they want a sleek blowout or to embrace their natural waves.

What We Don’t Love: The additional attachments could hog extra space in your suitcase.

Sure, thick hair is great in theory but, trust us, when it comes to wash and style days we’re ready to throw in the towel, especially when we’re bumping up against walls in tiny hotel bathrooms and cramped spaces while traveling. Mane understands that this hair type comes in all shapes in sizes, from big bouncy waves to long straight tresses, and the brand thoughtfully included three different attachments to help manage them all: A wide tooth comb for quick straightening, a nozzle that delivers hot hair right to the root for maximum volume, and a diffuser for days you want to rock your au-natural ringlets.

Of course, no good deed goes unpunished and these added bells and whistles will take up a bit more space in your suitcase. On the flip side, you may be able to ditch some of your styling serums and oils since this hair dryer delivers great results all on its own.

Watts: 1875 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Diffuser, cool shot | Weight: 0.84 pounds

Best Dual Voltage

Ghd flight+ travel hair dryer.

What We Love: This smart blow dryer automatically switches off when it’s held too close to hair, which helps protect strands from heat damage.

What We Don’t Love: This blow dryer's airflow only reaches 149 degrees, which means it’s not ideal for someone with very thick hair.

The Ghd Flight Travel Hair Dryer is the ideal beauty tool when it comes to traveling internationally for more than one reason. For starters, it has dual voltage capabilities, so it can be used virtually anywhere in the world, no matter how dire the outlet situation may be. On top of that, it won’t weigh down luggage since it clocks in at a mere 0.99 ounces. And if you’re a carry-on-only type, you’ll love its foldable design so you can squeeze it into most totes and smaller luggage.

This travel blow dryer has two heat settings, a cool shot setting, and one speed setting, allowing it to be customized to your liking (that said, the hot setting only reaches 149 degrees, so it won’t be very efficient at blow-drying very thick hair). Plus, it comes with a protective travel case that can shield the blow dryer from damage. As for the coolest feature, it’s quite literally the safety technology that automatically powers down the device to a lower temperature if it’s held too close to hair. This unique feature shields hair from heat damage and prevents the tool from overheating.

Watts: 1300 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 1 | Special Features: Cool shot, travel case | Weight: 1 pound

Best for International Travel

Babylisspro nano titanium travel dryer.

What We Love: Because it is dual voltage it can be used anywhere in the world.

What We Don’t Love: It does not offer a medium heat setting.

Looking for a convenient, reliable, and affordable hair dryer to accompany you on your next international trip? We have just what you need. This BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer has dual voltage, allowing you to use it no matter where your travels take you. It offers 1000 watts of power, meaning it won’t fry strands, but it will still dry them promptly. Plus, it has two different heat and speed settings (high and low), to best suit your hair type (use high heat if you have thick hair and low heat if you have thin hair). While these two settings work well, we do wish there was a medium setting for more customization.

This compact dryer also features a nano titanium technology that emits negative ions to give strands a healthy, glossy finish. And, to top it all off, it has a foldable handle, a six-foot-long cord, and it comes with an ultra-thin concentrator nozzle. Need we say more?

Watts: 1000 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, long cord | Weight: 0.6 pounds

Best Lightweight

Drybar baby buttercup blow dryer.

What We Love: This hair dryer features a fine mesh filter on the back that prevents hair from getting sucked in.

What We Don’t Love: The concentrator can fall off if it is not attached tightly enough to the nozzle.

Leave it to Drybar to make a lightweight, cute, and compact travel blow dryer. Weighing less than a pound, this foldable device can fit in any suitcase or carry-on and is the perfect hot tool to bring along with you, even if you’re traveling light. (We will note that the width of the head is a bit bigger than some of the other blow dryers on this list.) Designed with three power options to accommodate a variety of electrical outlets across the world without needing to worry about causing a circuit break.

With two heat settings, and a cool shot feature to set styles, the high-quality dryer helps you create a salon-worthy blowout. Plus, the concentrator nozzle provides you with the targeted airflow you need to create the hairstyle of your dreams. If you want to take your hair game to the next level, we suggest getting a hair serum , for quicker drying time and to fight frizz and protect hair from heat damage.

Watts: 1200 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, cool shot, travel bag | Weight: 0.8 pounds

Most Powerful

Jinri 1875w dual voltage travel hair dryer.

Complete 1875 watts, this small but powerful blow dryer can style hair in no time. In addition to a cool shot button to hold and set your final look, you can choose between a high heat setting to get your hair dried fast and a lower heat temperature if you’re going for a bouncy, salon-like blowout. Designed with a ceramic nozzle it produces airflow filled with negative ions that cling to hair and close the follicle, preventing frizzy flyways. Plus, it has two features that make it perfect to use overseas: The dryer has dual voltage capabilities and folds up, which means you can easily pack it into crowded carry-ons. Pro tip: To change the voltage, simply twist the knob at the bottom of the handle.

Watts: 1875 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, cool shot | Weight: 1.57 lbs

Eva NYC Mini Dryer + Bag

What We Love: This powerful little blow dryer radiates far-infrared heat and emits negative ions, which keeps hair looking healthy and shiny.

What We Don’t Love: This blow dryer does not have a cool shot feature.

Like most hot tools from Eva NYC, this portable blow dryer utilizes the power of negative ions. These negative ions are released from the tourmaline-infused ceramic nozzle into the hair, working overtime to lock in moisture and eliminate frizz and static. The result? Shiny, glossy hair, especially when you pair it with its dazzling shine spray . Plus, this innovative device radiates far-infrared heat, which is gentle on hair and ultimately reduces drying time, protecting strands from heat damage.

On top of shielding hair from harm, this blow dryer allows for different styling options, thanks to the concentrator and diffuser attachments. (The concentrator is ideal for creating smooth blowouts while the diffuser helps ensure curls keep their shape, sans frizz.) As for the final touches, this Eva NYC favorite offers dual voltage, has a foldable handle, and comes with a cute carrying case.

Watts: 1200 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, diffuser, travel case | Weight: 1.19 pounds

Best for Damaged Hair

Berta hair dryer.

What We Love: This travel blow dryer emits negative ions and has a cool shot feature.

What We Don’t Love: The rear vent cap is not removable, so there is no way to clean out the grate in the back of the dryer.

If you have damaged hair and don’t want to air dry it (guilty), opt for this Amazon bestseller. This Berta blow dryer has three heat settings – low, high, and a cool shot feature. The low heat setting is ideal to use if you have damaged hair because it’s warm enough to efficiently dry hair, yet cool enough to protect strands from heat damage. Additionally, it emits negative ions into the hair, which increases shine while decreasing static. If you really want to keep your hair healthy, we suggest using a heat protectant spray both before and during your blow-drying session so you can ensure your mane is safe from harm.

As an added bonus, this foldable tool is extremely quiet, so if you’re sharing a hotel room with someone, it won’t be bothersome. Plus, it has a handy hanging ring so you can store it on the back of the bathroom door, freeing up countertop space for your other beauty essentials.

Watts: 1875 | Heat Settings: 3 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, cool shot | Weight: 1.53 lbs

Best Blow Dryer Brush

Plavogue hair dryer brush.

What We Love: This lightweight tool features an anti-scalding comb that protects the scalp from heat.

What We Don’t Love: It’s loud.

This 1000-watt powered hot air brush detangles, straightens, and styles strands — and quickly. What’s better, the brand designs the brush with nylon needles and tufted bristles that won’t rip out hair, and it has anti-scalding capabilities that protect the scalp from getting burned.

In terms of traveling, this blow dry brush has a dual-voltage plug you can use anywhere and comes with a carrying case that protects it from getting scratched and damaged. It’s worth pointing out that this device is a bit loud when it’s in use, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling with someone or will be in close quarters.

Watts: 1000 | Heat Settings: 3 | Speed Settings: 3 | Special Features: Travel bag, two hair clips, 360-degree swivel cord | Weight: 1.83 lbs

Best for Frizzy Hair

Conair mini travel hair dryer for on-the-go styling.

What We Love: This mini blow dryer features tourmaline ceramic technology that helps protect the hair from heat while also adding shine and reducing frizz.

What We Don’t Love: The cord is less than five feet long, which means it’s shorter than most.

Complete with tourmaline ceramic technology that works hard to protect hair from heat damage, this top-rated Conair hair dryer stops frizz before it happens. This technology produces negative ions that enhance shine and provide hair with noticeable glossiness. As for its features, this blow dryer offers two heat and speed settings (high and low), which work well with all hair types, and it also comes with a concentrator and diffuser, letting you get creative with your hairstyle.

Aside from getting a blow dryer with special tourmaline ceramic technology, Prothero recommends other tips for keeping frizz at bay while styling it. “To reduce frizz when blow drying your hair, you should be using the proper anti-frizz serum that also protects your hair from heat,” she says. “Apply the lightweight formula to towel-dried hair before blow drying.” By doing this, the hair oil will be able to provide frizz control as well as heat protection.

Watts: 1200 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, diffuser, travel case | Weight: 0.68 lbs

Best with Diffuser

Ohjump hair dryer.

What We Love: This small tool has strong fans that produce fast wind speeds in order to dry hair quicker and reduce heat damage.

What We Don’t Love: The concentrator can get hot if it’s left on too long, so try to use it for 10 minutes or less at a time.

What do you get when you pair this blow dryer’s diffuser with curly hair? A match made in heaven. The Ohjump Mini Travel Hair Dryer comes with a top-rated diffuser attachment that keeps curly hair, well, curly. Thanks to strong fans that create high wind speeds, this tool can deliver hot gusts of wind straight through the diffuser to hair. The efficient diffuser helps define and set curls without the addition of frizz.

Plus, this tool has two heat and speed settings – high heat with high speed, which provides a strong airflow that dries hair fast, and low heat with low speed, which creates a soft air flow that helps to smooth strands (this setting is great for wavy hair). On top of that, this foldable blow dryer is small and compact, and even features dual voltage options. It also comes with a travel bag and an EU plug adapter.

Watts: 1875 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, diffuser, travel case, adapter plug | Weight: 1.23 pounds

Best for Curly Hair

Hot tools compact hair dryer.

What We Love: This small blow dryer comes with a unique diffuser that creates gorgeous curls and waves.

What We Don’t Love: This device produces very hot air that can burn the scalp if it is placed too close to the head.

This bestselling Hot Tools dryer is one of our favorite curly hair products , thanks to its slew of thoughtful features, and accompanying finger-style diffuser – a rarity among travel hair dryers! – making it especially great for coils and curls, but if you’re going for carefree beach waves, this diffuser will help keep those bends intact, too. For starters, this device has three different heat settings. On top of that, this blow dryer comes with a unique, finger-style diffuser that’s made to lift hair, add body, and maintain curls or waves without creating frizz. It also comes with a concentrator that can create bouncy blowouts. Plus, this blow dryer emits negative ions that condition and smooth hair, making it shinier and more lustrous.

Like any worthwhile travel hair dryer, it features dual voltage properties and the easy fold-up design lets you squeeze it into an already jam-packed suitcase.

Watts: 1875 | Heat Settings: 2 | Speed Settings: 2 | Special Features: Concentrator, diffuser, cool shot | Weight : 1.55 pounds

Compact Size: The main draw for getting a travel hair dryer is its small and compact size. When shopping for a portable blow dryer, be sure that it’s foldable and under two pounds. (Luckily, all 14 devices on our list are less than two pounds!) This will ensure it can fit in tight spaces and won’t weigh down your luggage.
Wattage/Voltage: In terms of traveling with a mini blow dryer, it’s important to keep the wattage and voltage in mind. The ideal wattage for a portable blow dryer is anywhere between 1200 and 1900 watts. Most full-size blow dryers are closer to 1800 watts. This is true in both the U.S. and overseas. However, the voltage differs. “In many countries, electrical voltage is 220/240 volts, while in the U.S., hot tools are 110/120 volts,” says Prothero. “Some travel hair dryers have dials that allow you to switch between voltage making them great for international use.” Make sure the device you have offers dual voltage (each blow dryer on this list does), and ensure you bring a travel adapter no matter what the wattage is.
Speed: Travel blow dryers might look small, but don’t doubt their power. Most of them pack a strong punch, offering high wind speeds as well as hot heat settings. To ensure your travel blow dryer can dry your hair, be sure it has a wattage of 1200 or up. If you really want to dry your hair quickly, opt for a blow dryer with closer to 1900 watts. The higher the watts, the speedier it’ll dry your strands.

Are travel hair dryers different from regular hair dryers?

Ultimately, the main difference between travel hair dryers and regular hair dryers is the size. Celebrity hairstylist Mario Solis adds, “Travel blow dryers may have different voltages and sometimes even plug adapters.”

When picking out a travel dryer, make sure it checks off all the boxes you want. “Look for what the dryer is made of (ceramic, titanium, etc.), its wattage, its weight, and any special features you want,” says Prothero, who adds “You also want to look for adjustable heat, a cool setting, and the ability to use attachments such as diffusers, and concentrators.”

Depending on its wattage, a smaller hair dryer might take a bit longer to dry hair than its full-size counterpart, but having a reliable travel hair dryer is worth it. As Valcin explains, hotel dryers are often terrible for your hair’s health because “The heat coming from them is not controlled, which can damage your hair.”

Can I pack a hair dryer in my carry-on?

“Absolutely,” says Valcin. “There aren't any regulations for packing your dryer in your carry-on.” Plus, the best thing about packing a travel hair dryer is that they’re ultra-compact, which means they’ll barely take up any room at all.

Lauren Harano has been in the beauty industry for over seven years. For this article, Lauren interviewed three hair experts: Master stylist and founder of Gregga LA, Gregga Prothero; master stylist and founder of Yvey Salon, Yvey Valcin; and celebrity hairstylist Mario Solis.

7 Travel Hair Dryers That Won't Take Up Your Whole Suitcase

By Meaghan Kenny

Image may contain Appliance Blow Dryer Device and Electrical Device

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 vacation. We asked our editors for their favorites 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.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, 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 : 13 ounces

Image may contain Appliance Device Electrical Device and Blow Dryer

Conair travel hair dryer

Best compact hair dryer

This Amazon bestseller from Conair has racked up over 28,000 ratings with an average of 4.6 stars. It's made specifically with travelers in mind—offering dual voltage and a folding handle that makes it supremely packable. Compact enough to fit in a weekender bag or a backpack , it's a smart choice for any type of trip. It works on all hair types with two speed settings and is powered by 1600 watts, providing the styling power of a full-size blow dryer in this small-but-mighty gem.

Weight : 1 pound

Mane This Totally Blows! Ionic compact hair dryer

Best frizz-free hair dryer

Prepare to be blown away by Mane’s travel-friendly hair dryer—compact enough to pack in your carry-on. The ion-powered blow dryer may be small (only weighing 13 ounces), but it’s mighty and forceful with its 1875 watts of power. It’ll quickly give you a frizz-free blowout and have your hair looking Gone with the Wind fabulous, especially with its three-temperature and two-speed adjustable settings. The blow dryer also comes with three separate attachments to help all hair types achieve a versatile range of styles, including a nozzle, diffuser, and wide-tooth comb attachment. Not to mention, its removable back cover makes filter cleaning a breeze. The blow dryer’s coolest feature is a built-in “cool shot” button to help set and keep your new ‘dos intact. — Johnaé De Felicis, contributor

Gama 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 : 10 ounces

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.

Weight : 12.2 ounces

Shark FlexStyle Air Drying and Styling System

Best fast-drying tool

Last year I tested the Shark FlexStyle to see how it compared to the viral $600 Dyson Airwrap Complete . There was no question that when it came to dry time, the Shark FlexStyle reigns supreme. The half-the-price alternative was 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 traveling within the US (it's not compatible with international voltage). 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.

Weight : 1.5 pounds

Revlon compact hair dryer

Best affordable hair dryer

I'm a longtime fan of Revlon hair products—especially the One-Step Volumizer that delivers a bouncy blowout at a fraction of the price of other similar tools. This small hair dryer is another one of the brand's bestsellers, and it's just $11. The lightweight, affordable hair tool has garnered over 72,000 ratings on Amazon with an average of 4.6 stars. If you're looking for a great no-frills, travel-friendly hair dryer, this one's for you. It's simple and classic in design, offering two heat settings and an on/off switch. Price and simplicity aside, we love this one for its reliability: It dries hair quickly and completely and takes up a lot less room than the average full-size hair dryer.

Weight: 1.18 pounds

Find anything you save across the site in your account

13 Best Travel Hair Dryers, Tested by Hairstylists

By Brigitt Earley

best travel hair dryers collage of hair dryers on a background

When traveling, you have to pick and choose what to fill the confines of your suitcase with. But if you have one of the best travel hair dryers, you won't necessarily feel limited in your options. Thankfully, the current generation of portable styling tools deliver the same results as your go-to full-size hair dryer .

Our top picks:

Best Overall: GHD Flight+ Travel Hair Dryer , $110
Best Budget: InfinitiPro by Conair Travel Hair Dryer , $35
Best Lightweight: BaBylissPro Nano Titanium Travel Dryer , $35
Best Dual-Voltage: Drybar Baby Buttercup Travel-Size Blow-Dryer , $139
Best Mini Hair Dryer: Lura Mini Portable Travel Hair Dryer , $36
Best Blow-Dryer Brush: Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0 , $40

Like their standard counterparts, all travel blow-dryers aren’t created equal. Look for models that are both small and lightweight—i.e., won’t send you over that 50-pound checked-baggage threshold and slim enough to tuck into a jam-packed suitcase, carry-on , or sturdy tote bag . There are plenty of travel-friendly options that weigh in at just about 1.5 pounds, and many fold to help conserve even more space.

Keep an eye out for any buzzwords or metrics that indicate speed and efficiency too. Hairstylists we spoke to told us that travel hair dryers that feature ceramic or ionic technology deliver faster, frizz-free finishes. Some may even come with attachments, like a pint-size diffuser for curly hair or a concentrator to help you nail your style.

If your travels take you abroad, dual-voltage is arguably the most important thing to look out for, since these can safely be used for international travel. The box or product listing should explicitly state either “dual-voltage” or “120/240V,” the latter of which indicates it works with outlets up to 240 volts. Since American outlets operate on 120 volts and European outlets operate on 220 volts, this is key. Without this functionality, you risk ruining your dryer the second you plug it in and power it on—yep, even with the right outlet adapter. (The same goes for your flatiron or straightener , blow-dry brush , or curling iron .)

We asked hairstylists to recommend the best travel hair dryers, plus polled Glamour editors, pro travel writers, and friends for their faves so you know what's actually worth it.

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

GHD Flight+ Travel Hair Dryer

Compact black hair dryer on a white background

GHD recently launched a new version of its beloved travel dryer: the Flight+. This dual-voltage travel hair dryer is a high-quality model that clocks in at less than a pound and has multiple heat and speed settings. Our tester was surprised by how quickly and expertly it dried her long hair. “I loved that it didn't seem to get too, too hot, either,” she says. Bonus: It folds in half for an even more compact size and comes with a storage bag so you can fit it in luggage as small as a weekender or even a roomy backpack .

Pros: Weighs less than a pound; multiple heat and speed settings, travel bag.
Cons: Some users say it’s not powerful enough for very thick hair.
Weight: 14.72 oz.
Dual voltage: Yes

Save when you shop the best travel hair dryers with these Nordstrom promo codes .

T3 Fit Compact Professional Hair Dryer

It may be about 30% smaller than a traditional dryer, but this lightweight model packs a punch. That’s because it features much of the same technology that makes T3 dryers so well regarded—including a special IonAir Technology that dries damp hair gently but quickly, as well as an ion generator that delivers negative ions to make frizzy hair smoother and shinier. “My hair feels so soft after using this dryer… I really noticed a difference,” says our tester. It’s also more customizable than most compact design, with two speed and three temperature settings, plus a lock-in cool-shot button to set your style and seal the hair cuticle.

Pros: Weighs less than a pound; attractive design, multiple heat and speed settings.
Cons: Not dual-voltage
Weight: 12.6 oz.
Dual voltage: No

Save when you shop the best travel hair dryers with these Nordstrom promo codes and Ulta promo codes .

BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer

For those who like a super-sleek blowout, this lightweight and ergonomic travel dryer delivers. It features six heat and speed settings for customization, but its real claim to fame is a combination of a high-torque DC motor, nano titanium heat technology, and a true ion generator for even heat distribution and a faster frizz-free result. “It's not much bigger than the size of my hand and it's super lightweight, but the dryer packs a surprising punch—plenty of power for my long hair,” says our tester.

Pros: Incredibly lightweight; multiple heat and speed settings, powerful motor
Weight: 9.6 oz.

Drybar Baby Buttercup Travel-Size Blow-Dryer

This compact dryer is made by the popular blowout salon Drybar. Like other great designs, it’s small and folds in half for better storage. “I love that it folds up so compactly, which allows me to pack it in a bag as small as a weekender,” says our tester. But that’s not all it does—the dryer relies on ionic technology that helps increase shine, reduce frizz, and decrease drying time overall. “My hair is relatively thin, but this dryer had it dry in record time compared to other travel options."

Pros: Dual-voltage; storage bag, two heat settings, foldable handle
Cons: Some users say the handle is a bit wobbly.
Weight: 13 oz.

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

It may be pricey and it may not actually be a travel dryer, but every (and we mean every) hairstylist we spoke to said the Dyson was their go-to for both home and travel. (It's also one of the best hair dryers , period.) “The Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryers are engineered to protect hair from extreme heat damage, with fast-drying and controlled styling,” says Edward Tricomi , master stylist and co-owner of Warren Tricomi salons. “This dryer is also a lot smaller and less bulky than the typical hair dryer that we're used to seeing.” Not to mention you don’t have to sacrifice quality when going for this compact dryer. “It's very powerful and will dry hair fast,” he says. Just don’t bring this one on your international travels—the last thing you want to do is fry a dryer this expensive. Glamour's commerce director, Brie Schwartz agrees. “It's light enough that I can take it everywhere, which means I don't have to rely on cruddy hotel dryers when I'm traveling. It's truly worth the hype.”

Pros: Great for home and travel; multiple attachments; protects hair from heat damage; works for various hair types.
Cons: Not dual-voltage, expensive
Weight: 1.44 lbs.

Infinitipro Conair Travel Hair Dryer

Do you need to spend a ton on a travel hair dryer? Absolutely not—and this drugstore pick is proof. This attractive red dryer is a great under-$50 find that has many of the same features as its more expensive counterparts, including a folding handle, a powerful motor, and ionic technology. It even comes with a concentrator nozzle for drying long hair and a diffuser attachment for curly-hair types. “It's a little heavier and louder than I'd like, but it gets the job done, plus I love that it comes with two styling attachments,” says our tester.

Pros: Multiple heat settings, attachments for versatile hairstyling, ionic technology
Cons: Not dual-voltage, on the heavier side
Weight: 2 lbs.

Revlon Compact Hair Dryer

Traveling on a budget but not willing to compromise on your beauty look? This incredibly budget-friendly pick from Revlon will get the job done. It has nearly 71,000 rave reviews on Amazon, thanks to a powerful motor and a relatively lightweight design. “It has only two options—low and high—but you can't beat the bang for your buck here,” says our tester. “Small, lightweight, and efficient…what more could you want?!”

Pros: Very affordable
Cons: Not dual-voltage; doesn’t fold.
Weight: 1.18 lbs.

Le Styliste Luxe Digital Salon Dryer

It may be bigger than other travel-size hair dryers, but the slim design sets this apart from other full-size options, making it a worthy contender for your suitcase. Perfect for the person who wants to use the same dryer at home and on the go, this cutie weighs under a pound and is ergonomically designed to be more comfortable in hand. And despite its high-performance motor, the dryer is exceptionally quiet. It also features an LCD display so you know exactly what settings you’re using. Did we mention it comes with a diffuser and two air concentrators? “I love that they're magnetic and just click right on,” says our tester. “I just wish I could use this dryer abroad.”

Pros: Very quiet, lightweight; slim design, attachments
Cons: Expensive, not dual-voltage
Weight : 0.9 lbs.

Save when you shop the best travel hair dryers with these Ulta promo codes .

Mermade Hair Compact Hair Dryer

This Australia-founded brand brings us a pint-size pick that’s both hardworking and too cute to handle. It uses ionic ceramic technology for smoother, straighter hair, and has two speed settings and two airflow settings, as well as a cool-shot function for minimizing frizz. It also comes with two concentrator attachments. “It fits perfectly in my hand, which makes it easier to hold, and it dries my hair in a flash,” says our tester.

Pros: Attachments, cute design, multiple heat and speed settings
Cons: On the heavier side, not dual-voltage
Weight: 1.68 lbs.

Save when you shop the best travel hair dryers with these Anthropologie promo codes .

Hot Tools Pro Artist Ionic Compact Hair Dryer

It should surprise, well, no one to see a Hot Tools dryer among the list of the best travel options. The brand is well-known for all of its heat tools, and this one delivers just as well as any other, thanks to a powerful 1875-watt motor and two heat and speed settings. “I totally understand where the brand gets its name… this dryer gets surprisingly hot,” says our tester. “I have thin hair, so I prefer the low setting, but you definitely won't be disappointed by the power on this one!” For convenience, it also folds in half, plus is dual-voltage—key for adventures in Europe.

Pros: Dual-voltage; powerful motor; folds.
Cons: On the heavier side
Weight: 1.55 lbs.

Lura Mini Portable Travel Hair Dryer

On the hunt for the full package for less? Who isn’t? Luckily, Lura's mini dryer satisfies on all fronts. The tiny tool (smaller than an iPhone!) has two heat settings, two speeds, and a 1200-watt motor. It also comes with a diffuser and a concentrator to expand styling possibilities on the go. Reviewers rave about how efficient it is, noting it heats up quickly and dries hair thoroughly, but also appreciate the beauty of it. Also pretty sweet? The rose gold dryer and its attachments all comes tucked inside a cute little gold pouch.

Pros: Attachments and a storage solution; super small, dual-voltage
Cons: Diffuser is super small.
Weight: 1.21 lbs.

Revlon One Step Volumizer Plus 2.0

Guess what? Everyone’s favorite dryer brush may not be as small as some travel hair dryers, but its long, skinny design makes it just as easy to pack. We’ve written about the wildly popular pick before —our editors love it, our readers love it, almost everyone on TikTok loves it. (Is there anyone who doesn’t love it? Inconceivable.) And that’s likely because the brush and dryer combo is beyond powerful and gets superhot to smooth out strands, stat. “This dryer gets so hot it's crazy, but I don't mind because it delivers the smoothest, shiniest hair," says our tester. "And best of all, I don't need to pack a round brush.”

Pros: Works super fast; easy to pack, budget-friendly
Cons: Some users say it gets too hot; not dual-voltage.
Weight: 1.63 lbs.

Curlsmith De-Frizzion Travel Dryer

Black compact dryer and attachments next to the box on a gray background

Curlsmith's foldable travel-size dryer is a fantastic addition to your travel toolkit. The lightweight six-inch diffuser strikes the right balance between portability and performance. “We like to have it for our curly customers, but it really works for any hair type,” says Sharon Dorram , celebrity colorist and owner of Sharon Dorram Color at Sally Hershberger Salon. The far infrared heat penetrates the hair shaft, ensuring a speedy dry while minimizing damage that can cause dehydration and frizz.

Pros: Multiple heat and speed settings, foldable handle; dual-voltage
Cons: Expensive
Weight: 1.06 lbs.

By Danielle Sinay

The 58 Coolest Box Braid Hairstyles to Try

By Taylor Bryant

The Best Shampoos for Hair Growth, According to Glamour Reviewers

By Malia Griggs

Joey King's Bright New ‘Playboy Blonde' Is Going on My Summer Mood Board

an image, when javascript is unavailable

Today's Digital Daily

site categories

Parent item expand the sub menu, robert wun fall 2024 couture: delving into surrealism, snowflakes and skeletons, christopher esber wins 2024 andam, lanvin goes for experience, taps peter copping, the 15 best travel hair dryers that are powerful and lightweight.

These picks are tested by editors and approved by experts.

Share this article on Facebook
Share this article on X
Share this article on Flipboard
Share this article on Pin It
Share this article on Tumblr
Share this article on Reddit
Share this article on LinkedIn
Share this article on WhatsApp
Share this article on Email
Print this article
Share this article on Talk

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, WWD may receive an affiliate commission.

Updated September 29, 2023: This article on the best travel hair dryers was updated with new product picks for fall and holiday shopping, plus additional recommendations and information on the different types of travel hair dryers.

Wacky and wonderful couture beauty looks from days three and four in paris, beauty stocks take a beating after market guidance downgrade, you may also like.

“Hotel hair dryers have definitely earned their bad reputation,” says Stuke, adding that they’re infamous for damaging hair, taking forever to dry hair, and leaving you with a lackluster blowout. “Having the correct tools can make or break the health of your hair, especially on a beach vacation or just generally anytime you will be out and about in the sun.” While Stuke says that some luxury hotels are now upgrading their hair dryers to more high-quality options, it’s still “never a sure thing” and “smaller travel-sized styling tools can be a lifesaver.”

You may be out of office, but you can’t press pause on caring for your hair, especially if it’s colored or chemically altered. Thankfully, the best travel hair dryers deliver the results you want and come in a compact size that fits in any suitcase or weekender bag .

Top Travel Hair Dryers for 2024

Best Hair Dryer Brush : Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0 Hair Dryer Brush
Best Budget Dryer : Conair MiniPro Hair Dryer
Best Design: Amika The CEO 360 Lightweight Powerhouse Hair Dryer
Best for Versatility: Shark Speedstyle Hair Dryer
Best Luxury Dryer : Dyson Supersonic Origin Hair Dryer
Best Travel Hair Dryer for Curly Hair: Eva Nyc Mini Healthy Hair Dryer
Best for Heat Control : T3 Afar Lightweight Travel Size Hair Dryer
Best for a Long Lasting Blowout : BaBylissPro Travel Hair Dryer
Best for Volume : Drybar Baby Buttercup Blow Dryer
Best Professional Dryer : L’Ange Le Styliste Luxe Digital Salon Dryer
Best for Shine : Revlon Compact Folding Handle Travel Hair Dryer
Most Foldable Travel Hair Dryer: Ghd Flight Travel Hair Dryer
Best Powerful Travel Hair Dryer : Bio Ionic 10X Ultralight Speed Dryer
Best Energy-Saving Dryer : Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultra Light Pro Dryer

Panasonic Nanoe Hair Dryer

Sign up for WWD Shop’s newsletter to get the scoop on the best in beauty and style with in-depth reviews of exciting new releases and buyer’s guides to find the products you need to try ASAP.

Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0 Hair Dryer Brush

Best Hair Dryer Brush for Travel

Size: 1.63 pounds
Features: Anti-damage ceramic titanium tourmaline technolog y , charcoal-infused nylon pins and tufted bristles
Settings : Four heat settings
Attachments : Removable oval brush
Warranty : No
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars

The One-Step Plus 2.0 is Revlon’s new and improved hair dryer brush. It’s a holy grail hybrid between a blow dryer and traditional round brush and saves so much space and styling effort while traveling or on-the-go. It effortlessly creates waves, curls, or a smooth, straight blowout in one simple step, and features an upgraded lightweight and compact design that’s perfect for packing.

What reviewers say: “I have thick but fine, wavy hair that is extremely heat sensitive. I have no skill with a blow dryer and brush, I always ended up with either a bush or everything just hanging limp, and out of patience because it took so long. This dryer is perfect for my hair! The cool setting on damp hair is perfect — just enough pull in the bristles of the brush to hold my hair and plenty of air volume to dry and shape it. Because I only have to hold this one tool, even my clumsy self can do it! I am finally impressed by a hair tool!”

Editor testing and review notes : “The Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0 checks off all of the boxes. From the slim oval barrel that works the roots, coaxes curtain bangs into place and delivers soft curls to the blended materials in the bristles and the optional cool setting that seals hair cuticles in place, this affordable blow dryer brush stands out among its competitors. If you struggle managing a dryer in one hand and a brush in the other, or if your hair is super curly or ultra-thick, One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0 will hands down change your life. It’ll shave several minutes off your usual blow-dry time, and you won’t have to fight your hair to get it styled the way you want.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $41

Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0 Hair Dryer Brush $70 $34.41 Buy Now AT AMAZON

Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0 Hair Dryer Brush $75 Buy Now AT Ulta

Size: 1.17 pounds and foldable design
Features: Nanoe technology for frizz-free hair, oscillating quick dry nozzle, 5.5 foot long cord
Settings : Two heat and speed settings
Attachments : One quick dry nozzle
Warranty : Two years

Panasonic’s newest launch in the hair category, the Nanoe, features an innovative oscillating hair dryer head that moves back and forth to dry hair uniformly and consistently, preventing hot spots on your scalp as you dry with high heat. The brand’s unique nanoe technology hydrates hair by infusing nano particles — which hold 1000x more moisture than regular ions — into the hair shaft to prevent frizz, static and dry, scraggly ends.

What reviewers say: “I use it daily and the results make my hair feel so soft. I love it so much because I always saw my hair becoming frizzy with my basic dryer. If you need a hair dryer at a reasonable price then I’d recommend buying this one.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $137

Panasonic Nanoe Hair Dryer 137 $64.11 Buy Now AT AMAZON

Conair MiniPro Hair Dryer

Best Budget Travel Hair Dryer

Size : Less than one pound and has a folding handle
Features : Tourmaline ceramic technology to protect hair from heat and dual voltage for worldwide travel
Settings : Two temperature and two speed settings
Attachments : One concentrator
Warranty: Yes, but must apply for a replacement and provide receipt
Amazon’s Choice

If you want to snag a great travel hair dryer but don’t have Dyson dollars, this affordable hair dryer from Conair may be for you. As one of the most portable hair dryers on our list, this tool can squeeze into nearly any bag, thanks to its foldable handle, yet it doesn’t sacrifice a bit of performance. Although it’s petite, the cord is five feet long so you can easily maneuver it.

What reviewers say: “This is my go-to travel dryer as it is so small. It literally fits in the palm of your hand and I love that I don’t have to take up so much room in my luggage.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $23

Conair MiniPro Hair Dryer $23 Buy Now AT AMAZON

Amika The Ceo 360 Lightweight Powerhouse Hair Dryer

Best Design Travel Hair Dryer

Size : 1.45 pounds
Features : Ion generators for volume and shine and far-infrared head to lock in moisture
Settings : Three temperature settings and two speeds
Attachments : Two concentrators
Warranty : One year
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars

For a hair dryer that offers everything you’d want in a travel hair dryer, look no further than this option from Amika . Light, fast, and powerful, you’ll want to take this hair dryer everywhere you go, and thanks to its small size, you can. It has far-infrared heat to keep your hair moisturized and soft, while the negative ions penetrate the hair follicle for a smooth, silky finish.

What reviewers say: “The hairdryer is beautiful and lightweight as advertised. The heat settings include cool, low heat, and high heat. It is quieter than my old blow dryer, but it is not the quietest on the market. My hair did come out smoother and silkier than air drying thanks to the negative ion setting.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $200

Amika The Ceo 360 Lightweight Powerhouse Hair Dryer $200 Buy Now AT SEPHORA

Shark SpeedStyle Hair Dryer

Size: 1.69 pounds
Settings : Five heat and two speed settings
Attachments : Two attachment configurations are available; one for curly and coily hair and another for straight and wavy hair

Consider the Shark SpeedStyle hair dryer as a little sister to the TikTok-famous Shark FlexStyle . The tool has fewer attachments — a factor that makes it less overwhelming to figure out and utilize — but doesn’t sacrifice power, styling speed, or results. On top of its lightweight build and hair-healthy heat limitations, the SmoothStyle is available in two configurations, catering to hair types from straight to coily (aka type 4 hair). Beyond its petite size, this hair styling tool is a breakthrough for its versatility: Where most standard or travel hair dryers come with a concentrator and diffuser attachment at most, the SpeedStyle arrives to you with three attachments for versatile styling, plus additional styling attachments available for purchase.

What reviewers say: “This hair dryer is truly high-speed and dries my hair in record time! I like that it comes with additional attachments. I have normal to dry hair with some frizz, so I often end up using a flat iron after blow drying to help smooth. With this tool, I didn’t really even need to do that! The RapidGloss Finisher took a bit of finesse to get right, but I did find it to be effective on my frizz! My favorite things about the tool are its versatility and how quickly it dries my hair!”

Editor testing and review notes : “For a multi-tasking hair dryer, the SpeedStyle is amazingly easy to navigate. It’s a lightweight hair dryer that doesn’t compromise on power — our tester was able to take her hair from wet to fully dry and styled in just 10 minutes. Of all the attachments, we were most impressed by the RapidGloss Finisher for its ability to tame flyaways and create a uniformed finish in seconds.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $199

Shark SpeedStyle Hair Dryer — Straight & Wavy $200 Buy Now AT AMAZON

Shark SpeedStyle Hair Dryer — Straight & Wavy $199 Buy Now AT Sephora

Shark SpeedStyle Hair Dryer — Curly & Coily $200 Buy Now AT Amazon

Shark SpeedStyle Hair Dryer — Curly & Coily $199 Buy Now AT Sephora

Related: Shark SmoothStyle Review

Dyson Supersonic Origin Hair Dryer

Best Luxury Travel Hair Dryer

Size: 1.18 pounds
Features: Air Multiplier technology,
Settings : Three heat and airflow options
Attachments : Smoothing Nozzle concentrator
Dyson Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.0/5 stars

Want to try out Dyson’s award-winning hair dryers for $100 less? Check out the new Supersonic Origin Hair Dryer . It’s just as powerful as the first Supersonic dryer, but comes as a simplified iteration that’s lightweight for travel. Like other Dyson hair styling tools, the Supersonic Origin features specially engineered airflow that dries hair in a matter of minutes and deposits gentle, precise heat to promote smooth and healthy strands. It has three heat and airflow options for maximum styling and control and a Smoothing Nozzle concentrator attachment that come in handy whether you’re adding volume, rough drying, or creating a salon-quality blowout from home. “I love my Dyson,” says Anderson . “Expensive, but they are durable for travel and last for years.”

What reviewers say: “As someone who needs to wash their hair daily due to sweat from exercise, this is a timesaver. The Dyson supersonic is super light, reasonably quiet, and powerful. It dries my long, thick hair in less than 10 minutes — and in five minutes if I wait until 80 percent dry. I love traveling with the Supersonic Origin, as it takes minimal space in my luggage, and minimal time to dry my hair when I’m at my destination.”

Editor testing and review notes: “You really can’t go wrong with this Dyson hair dryer. it will undeniably dry your hair faster, smoother and shinier, regardless of your hair type. The Dyson is also a smart purchase if you’re a beauty fanatic who loves to change up their hairstyle often, like wearing your hair pin straight one day, then full and bouncy another. All five Dyson hair attachments are incredibly easy to use, which makes them great for experimenting with different hairstyles.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $400

Dyson Origin Supersonic Hair Dryer $400 Buy Now At Dyson

Related: Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer Review Dyson Airwrap Review

Eva Nyc Mini Healthy Heat Pro-Power Dryer

Best Travel Hair Dryer for Curly Hair

Size : 1.15 pounds
Features : Dual-voltage, ion technology, and far-infrared technology
Attachments : One concentrator and one diffuser
Sally Beauty Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars

A travel hair dryer with diffuser and curly hair-friendly attachments, a traveling case, and a budget-friendly price is a rare find. Eva Nyc’s option ticks all those boxes. Although this dryer is small, it packs many features you find in salon-quality dryers, including negative ions to prevent frizziness and far-infrared technology to speed up the drying process without damaging your hair. Curly girls will love the diffuser attachment that effortlessly defines waves, ringlets, and coils.

What reviewers say: “This mini hair dryer exceeded my expectations. I purchased one because I was traveling from state to state and new that some hotels don’t have a complimentary hair dryer in the rooms. The size and the weight was perfect, tempature was really hot and very easy to use and mange. I would recommend this to others and it’s worth the price.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $42

Eva Nyc Mini Healthy Heat Pro-Power Dryer $42 Buy Now AT Anthropologie

T3 Afar Lightweight Travel Size Hair Dryer

Best Heat Controlled Travel Hair Dryer

Size : 12.2 pounds with foldable handle
Features : Auto-dual voltage, quiet motor and made with T3’s proprietary SoftAire technology
Bluemercury Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars

With five heat and speed combinations, this travel hair dryer allows for a completely customizable blow drying experience to create a range of different hairstyles. The brand’s signature IonAir Technology and enhanced, ion-infused airstream dries hair quickly without causing damage while simultaneously smoothing the cuticle for a frizz-free, shiny blowout. Bonus: It’s 25 percent lighter and 30 percent smaller than the full-sized model , and it comes in a pretty satin blush color.

What reviewers say: “This hair dryer is perfect for anyone who travels a lot!! The compact design & luxury travel pouch make a perfect pair. I also love the flexibility of the cord on it! I have pretty thick long hair and this dries it super fast and leaves it feeling shiny and healthy.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $180

T3 Afar Lightweight Travel Size Hair Dryer $180 Buy Now AT SEPHORA

T3 Afar Lightweight Travel Size Hair Dryer $180 Buy Now AT BLUEMERCURY

BaBylissPro Travel Dryer

Best Travel Hair Dryer for a Long Lasting Blowout

Size : 9.6 ounces
Features : Dual voltage, nano-titanium technology to deliver heat evenly, negative ions to remove static
Settings : Six temperature and speed settings
Warranty: Two and three year options for an additional cost

Amazon has no shortage of travel hair dryers, but this BaByliss option takes the cake for its strong airflow, light design, and customizable settings that work together like magic to dry hair evenly and quickly while maintaining body and shine. The brand’s dryers are known for their durability over years of use, but the additional warranty options allow you to get a replacement in the off chance you encounter issues with your dryer.

What reviewers say: ”I have tried many travel blow dryers and for its tiny size, this packs the most blowing power of any on the market . You truly won’t find a smaller blow dryer that gets the job done like this little guy.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $35

BaBylissPro Travel Dryer $35 Buy Now AT AMAZON

Drybar Baby Buttercup Blow Dryer

Best Travel Hair Dryer for Volume

Size : Less than one pound and foldable handle
Features : Ionic technology, dries hair fast, dual voltage and comes with protective travel bag
Settings : Three heat and two speed settings
Warranty : Two year warranty

Built for travel, equipped for styling, Drybar’s Baby Buttercup Blow Dryer is a lightweight, easy to use ionic hair dryer that not only offers speedy drying power for all hair types, but also reduces frizz and amps up shine. Plus, it taps a wave heater to produce an even temperature for damage-free heat styling.

What reviewers say: “My husband bought the baby buttercup by accident four years ago instead of the full sized one and it has been perfect. We travel a lot so the compact fold and the little travel bag have been such a plus.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $118.15

Drybar Baby Buttercup Blow Dryer $139 $118.15 Buy Now AT AMAZON

Drybar Baby Buttercup Blow Dryer $139 Buy Now AT SEPHORA

L’Ange Le Styliste Luxe Digital Salon Dryer

Best Professional Travel Hair Dryer

Size : Less than one pound
Features : Ergonomic design, quiet brushless motor, negative ion technology, overheat protection and automatic self-cleaning
Settings : Four heat and three speed settings
Attachments : One diffuser and two concentrators

If super fast drying time and a comfortable, ergonomic grip are high on your priority list, you’ll love this option from L’Ange , which was created specifically for professional stylists. Although it’s not marketed as a travel hair dryer, it’s slim design and lightweight feel make it a no-brainer to take it with you when you’re on the go. Even better, the diffuser and pair of concentrators make it a multipurpose hair dryer that can be used on wash-and-go styles or for adding texture and sky high volume.

What reviewers say: “I use this every day to style my hair and it is my best friend. It’s very light but super powerful. I have very thick hair and it only takes me 10 minutes to dry where other dryers take 20 minutes or more. Additionally, it’s the perfect size for travel and the voltage is safe to use in many other countries.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $245

L’Ange Le Styliste Luxe Digital Salon Dryer $245 Buy Now AT ULTA

Revlon Compact Folding Handle Travel Hair Dryer

Best Travel Hair Dryer for Shine

Size : 1.35 ounces and foldable design
Features : Dries hair fast, high heat temperature, ionic technology, dual voltage and ceramic coating
Settings : Five heat and speed settings
Attachments : One diffuser and one concentrator

We love Revlon’s no-nonsense travel hair dryer because of its straightforward design and protective features. Featuring an internal triple-coated ceramic material, heat flows evenly and safely onto hair, preserving the strength of the strands as well as its moisture level. And with more than 9,000 five-star reviews, it’s fair to say this tool has earned its status.

What reviewers say: “I bought this to lighten the load in my suitcase and it does just that. It’s lightweight and powerful enough for my shoulder length hair and also has a cool button to de-frizz.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $15

Revlon Compact Folding Handle Travel Hair Dryer $18 $15 Buy Now AT AMAZON

Ghd Flight Travel Hair Dryer

Best Foldable Travel Hair Dryer

Size : One pound and foldable design
Features : Automatic cool down, powerful motor, dual voltage, high heat
Settings : Two heat settings

“Normal high end and professional tools tend to be quite heavy and it can be a pain when traveling,” says Stuke. “Something that fits easily into your luggage and doesn’t weigh too much can make the difference when deciding whether or not to check a bag.” You’ll have no such issues with this award-winning Ghd travel hair dryer, which weighs 50 percent less than its full-sized counterparts but still maintains 70 percent of the power for a long-lasting blowout so you can spend more time enjoying your destination, not styling your hair. Pro tip: Dry small sections at a time and brush horizontally to create more volume or vertically for more wave.

What reviewers say: “I was looking for a lightweight, small, and compact hairdryer and in this respect this Ghd dryer fits the bill perfectly. I got fed up of using big, bulky, and weighty hairdryers, so tried this instead and I have not been disappointed. It comes complete with a nozzle and hard travel case.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $85

Ghd Flight Travel Hair Dryer $119 $85 Buy Now AT amazon

Bio Ionic 10X Ultralight Speed Dryer

Best Powerful Travel Hair Dryer

Features : Bio Ionic Moisturizing Heat™ for hydration, lightweight, universal voltage, far-infrared heat
Settings : Four heat and speed settings
Attachments : Concentrator
Warranty : 10 years
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars

If you have thick hair or lots of it, consider this advanced dryer from Bio Ionic , which you’ll use at home and on the go. It features an insanely strong motor that operates with an impressive 1800 watts of power, promising to dry hair in less than 10 minutes (we can attest to its ability to do just that). Natural volcanic rock combined with the brand’s proprietary mineral complex produces a moisturizing heat to style-lock the cuticle, speed up the drying process and keep hair soft, conditioned and glossy. The 10-year warranty is a bonus.

What reviewers say: “I am floored! I love how light this dryer is. I sometimes get tendinitis in my elbow so I really appreciate that it is so lightweight. I felt like I could maneuver the dryer better because of that. My hair typically takes about 30 minutes to dry. This brought it down to about 12.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $299

Bio Ionic 10X Ultralight Speed Dryer $299 Buy Now AT Amazon

Bio Ionic 10X Ultralight Speed Dryer $299 Buy Now AT NORDSTROM

Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultra Light Pro Dryer

Best Energy-Saving Travel Hair Dryer

Features : Patented silencer for nearly noiseless experience, customizable ion functionality, energy efficient dual filtration system
Settings : 12 heat and speed settings
Dermstore Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Shopbop Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 5/5 stars

Developed by celebrity stylist Harry Josh , this expertly engineered tool is the first energy efficient, professional-grade hair dryer of its kind. The adjustable ion button enables you to close the cuticle for next-level shine and bounce or to rock your natural texture while the airflow can reach a speed of 94 mph — meaning your hair will be dry in no time. Even better, its built-in noise reduction technology hushes the hum of the motor to a faint whisper.

What reviewers say: “I’ve been wanting this hair dryer for ages and finally invested in this dryer. The color is divine and it is definitely the lightest dryer I’ve used other than small travel hair dryers. I’d recommend this product for anyone with shoulder, arm, neck, and/or spine issues and are looking for a great light dryer option investment that won’t add extra strain on your body.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $349

Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultra Light Pro Dryer $349 Buy Now AT DERMSTORE

Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultra Light Pro Dryer $349 Buy Now AT SHOPBOP

What to Look for in a Travel Hair Dryer

Size: If you’re in the carry-on only club, this is probably the most important aspect, because after all, a travel hair dryer is only useful if it’s easy to pack. Some dryers feature a shorter-than-average nozzle while others fold in half to take up a smaller amount of space. Before you purchase, take a second to think about how you travel as well as the size of the suitcase you normally travel with.
Weight: A solid travel hair dryer should not be heavy or bulky. Look for a travel blow dryer that is five pounds or less.
Voltage: This is especially important for international travel, as electricity circuits vary by country, and you’ll want to make sure any hair dryer you choose has dual voltage. If you’re unsure, err on the side of safety and purchase a travel adapter to use with the hair dryer.
Speed : “A hair dryer that doesn’t have much power can leave your hair frizzy and damp,” warns Stuke, which defeats the entire purpose of bringing it along in the first place. Look for hair dryers that offer at least two speed settings, which typically indicates a strong airflow capabilities.
Temperature : A hair dryer that gets too hot too fast creates steam, says Stuke. “This can fry your hair, sometimes discoloring it permanently, and the high heat can melt away the glossy toner from coloring and leave it orange, which is sometimes impossible to correct.” Like at-home hair dryers, a travel hair dryer should have at least two heat settings and a cool shot button.
Attachments : Many of the best hair dryers come with a concentrator and hair diffuser attachments, and your travel hair dryer should, too — even if it’s just for the ‘gram. “You need your hair to look good, you’re on vacation!” says Stuke.

The Different Types of Travel Hair Dryers

Since there are so many different hair dryer shapes, sizes, styles, and features to choose from, it can be overwhelming to pick just one that’s right for you. Here are the main types of travel hair dryers for different needs and styling preferences.

Ionic travel hair dryers: Ionic hair dryers are best for decreasing frizz. The technology deposits negative ions that reduce static electricity and promote shiny, bouncy strands, explains celebrity hairstylist Michael Dueñas . Ionic travel hair dryers help to dry hair faster, since water has a positive iconic charge and negative ions work to repel H2O. This type of travel hair dryer is best for those who are prone to frizzy hair or are looking for a super speedy dry time.
Dual-voltage travel hair dryers: Many hair dryers are dual-voltage, but make sure you double check before you jet-set abroad. The best travel hair dryer with dual voltage features will be compatible with outlets all over the world, so you’ll never have to leave your hair styling routine at home. However, make sure you bring a long a plug adapter, especially if you’re in the market for a trusty travel hair dryer for Italy or other European destinations.
Travel hair dryer brushes: Travel hair dryer brushes are the most versatile travel hair dryer option, since they combine multiple functions in one. A hair dryer brush has the capability to dry, smooth, straighten, or curl, without the need to pack an assortment of separate hair tools on top of a typical round hair brush. While most hair dryer brushes are slightly heavier than a regular round brush, travel hair dryer brushes come in smaller sizes that are less bulky. They make for a stellar travel size hair dryer because they save tons of packing space and allow a variety of styling options.
Mini travel hair dryers: Small travel hair dryers are another great space-saving option, and there’s a wide assortment to choose from. Even the smallest travel hair dryers pack a major punch and are often modeled by a larger iteration from the same brand. Mini hair dryers may not be most efficient when you arrive home from your trip, since the air nozzle is smaller than typical hair dryers and may take extra drying time for long or thick hair, but could serve as an evergreen tool for those with short or fine hair.
Foldable travel hair dryers: The best compact hair dryer to stow in your luggage is most definitely a foldable tool. Foldable hair dryers often come with travel pouches and hinge at the handle for tight packing and better protection. Collapsable versions make for the best travel hair dryer for Europe or flights overseas, since they’re more crack and snap-proof and create more storage space for other essentials.

Is a Travel Hair Dryer Worth It?

Yes, according to our trio of experts, mostly because you just never know what you’re going to get with a hair dryer at a hotel or Airbnb and using a low tech or low grade hot tool can be damaging, regardless if it’s only for a few days.

“Many cheaper hot tools can cause lasting damage to your hair,” says Stuke, who doesn’t believe that rolling the dice on a hotel providing a quality hair dryer is worth the risk. And you can forget about the hotel providing a good curling iron . “I think it’s important to use the right tools to protect your hair and I usually travel with both a blow dryer as well as a flat iron.”

You’ll still use a travel hair dryer the same way you’d use your regular hair dryer, starting with using a gentle shampoo and conditioner , then brushing your hair and applying a leave-in conditioner or heat protectant, especially if you have curly hair .

How to Pack a Travel Hair Dryer

Packing for any kind of trip usually requires a careful edit on your regular beauty go-tos, but the latest generation of travel hair dryers are supremely durable, teeny and some even have foldable handles or retractable cords for easy, clean packing.

Most hair dryers come with a cloth bag for safekeeping and storage. To stow it away safely in a suitcase, simply put it in the bag it came with — or a Ziploc to be extra cautious — in between clothes for extra cushioning — zero hassle, zero stress.

How We Chose the Best Travel Hair Dryers

Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.

Our editors personally tested eight of the below travel hair dryers. While testing and reviewing each travel hair dryer, we evaluated specific features, including drying speed, temperature and airflow. Each travel hair dryer was packed in a carry-on suitcase to see how much space they actually took up. We also noted their weight and cord length during the testing process. In addition to testing, we tapped two celebrity hair experts for their opinions on the best travel hair dryers on the market, and what features to consider while shopping. We also cross-checked customer reviews to ensure we included options for different hair types, textures, and lengths. Learn more about us here .

Meet the Experts

Kirsten Stuke is a celebrity colorist at Sally Hershberger’s Nomad salon in New York City. She’s known for her creative vision and is the stylist that Zoë Kravitz and Gigi Hadid have on speed dial.

Michael Dueñas is a Los Angeles-based curly hair specialist. He’s worked with celebrity clients including Rachel Brosnahan, Noah Cyrus, and Padma Lakshmi, styled for runway shows, and shot editorials for numerous brands.

Meet the Author s

Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for WWD Shop and Footwear News. She’s spent over six years researching, reporting on, and writing about the beauty industry for publications like Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She’s tested hundreds of products during her time as a beauty editor, so she’s well-versed in selecting the products, like travel hair dryers, that make a meaningful difference in your skin and hair. Claire wrote the original version of this article and contributed to a February 2023 update of this story with expert interviews and product testing.

Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content across fashion, beauty, footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Cigliano received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. She is currently based in New York City. She updated this story for the best travel hair dryers on September 26th, 2023 with new releases and editor-tested product picks.

WWD Recommends

Loewe unveils destination shop at taikoo li chengdu.

By Denni Hu

Travel in Style at These Designer Vacation Rentals

Fashion Features
By Eryn Norton

Designers’ Sketches From Paris Couture Week Fall 2024

Diane von furstenberg’s ‘woman in charge’ documentary: dvf, producer & director discuss inspiration, meaning & empowerment.

Fashion Expand fashion menu

Fashion Trends
Fashion Scoops
Designer & Luxury
Ready-To-Wear
Accessories

Business Expand business menu

Government & Trade
Mergers & Acquisitions
Marketing & Promotion
Human Resources
Business Features
Real Estate

Beauty Expand beauty menu

Beauty Features

Men's Expand mens menu

Mens Accessories
Mens Clothing Furnishings
Mens Designer Luxury
Mens Lifestyle
Mens Retail Business
Mens Sportswear
Mens Fashion

Runway Expand runway menu

Men’s Fall 2024
Pre-Fall 2024
Spring Ready-to-Wear 2024
Fall Couture 2023
Resort 2024

Denim Expand denim menu

Sustainability expand sustainability menu.

Environment
Social Impact

Home/Design Expand home-design menu

Interior Design
Architecture

WWD Weekend Expand wwd-weekend menu

Events expand events menu, eye expand eye menu.

Celebrity Real Estate

Shop Expand shop menu

More expand more menu.

Fairchild Live
RetailRx Community

Verify it's you

Please log in.

13 Travel Hair Dryers That'll Give You Quality Blowouts No Matter Your Location

Because doing your hair shouldn't be a hassle on vacation.

Chances are, the hair dryer in your hotel room or Airbnb is just not gonna cut it, and if you're trying to pack light (ha, who are we kidding?), lugging along your favorite hair dryer might benefit from a little Honey, I Shrunk the Kids magic.

Luckily, many reputable brands offer smaller-sized hair dryers that boast carry-on-friendly features like foldable handles and dual voltage for sleek styling overseas, and these tools don't skimp out on power—nowadays, many travel blow dryers on the market offer high wattage for quick, frizz-free styling so you won't have to stress about your strands while on PTO.

Below, find the best travel hair dryers that are equally as compact as they are effective.

Best Overall Travel Hair Dryer

Ghd flight travel hair dryer.

Best Budget Travel Hair Dryer

Conair minipro tourmaline ceramic travel hair dryer with folding handle.

Best Luxury Travel Hair Dryer

Dyson supersonic™ hair dryer.

GHD stands for Good Hair Day, and you're bound to have a bouncy blowout that lasts if you stash this stellar travel hair dryer in your carry-on. It's 47 percent lighter and 25 percent smaller than the full-sized GHD Air while boasting 77 percent of the power. Professional hairstylist Laurabeth Cabott loves the GHD travel dryer because it has a high wattage, dual voltage, and can be folded for traveling. Plus, it comes with a durable travel case, so you can rest assured your dryer won't get damaged even if you chuck it in your checked luggage.

This small-but-mighty travel dryer comes in under $25 yet delivers just as much power (1,200 watts, to be exact) as many other higher-priced hair dryers on the market. It doesn't come with any nice-to-haves like a cool-shot button to lock in your 'do, but it gets the job done with two heat and speed settings as well as dual voltage, which deems it suitable for international travel. Plus, it's available on Amazon Prime, so last-minute shoppers can have it delivered to their door before departure time (because we'd all rather avoid a frizzy hair fiasco on vacation).

The Dyson Supersonic comes with five different styling attachments—including the flyaway attachment, diffuser, and wide-tooth comb—that help you create perfect frizz-free styles wherever you go. And all the attachments are magnetic, so you won't have to fumble around when switching them. The Supersonic weighs under 2 pounds, has a 9-foot-long cable (which comes in handy when your hotel room only has one working outlet), boasts four different heat settings, and a cold shot button to lock in the shine. But what we love most about it is that it dries your hair lightening-fast (think: 15 minutes versus 45 on coarse hair)—and anything that saves this much time is totally worth the investment. Just keep in mind that the Dyson Supersonic doesn't have dual voltage, so it's only suitable for travel within the U.S. (unless you buy a converter to use along with it).

BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer

This metallic blue BaByliss Pro hair dryer isn't only easy on the eyes, it also produces some seriously good 'dos. Users rave that it's powerful for its size and has great longevity, so it's bound to last you through many trips around the sun. Its ultra-thin concentrator nozzle means you'll be able to smooth those strands to perfection, although this dryer doesn't come with a cool shot button. But for the unbeatable $35 price tag, you really can't go wrong.

Volo Beauty Go Cordless Hair Dryer

Now you can dry your hair anywhere: on the road, in bed, or in a hotel room without a mirror-adjacent power outlet. This cordless dryer is literally a dream because a full charge lasts you two hours and it's equipped with infrared technology that dries your hair quicker and sleeker with minimal damage. Plus, it comes with a dryer head, concentrator, dryer battery pack, charging base, and charging cable all nicely packed up in a cute travel bag. Just make sure to buy a voltage converter for the hair dryer charger if you're traveling internationally to avoid frying your Volo (which would be such a shame because it is so pricey).

T3 Afar - Lightweight Travel Size Hair Dryer

The T3 Afar will become your ultimate travel buddy thanks to its dual voltage converter that switches automatically when plugged in and its powerful 1,500-wattage that dries hair almost instantly. Not only is it very lightweight (about 12 ounces), but it also easily folds up for quick storage in even the smallest of suitcases. It comes in a pretty vegan leather pouch that protects your dryer from scratches and scuffs. The long 9-foot cord is also a major plus, and with all these bells and whistles, the T3 might be worth the higher price tag.

Revlon 1875W Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer

If power is what you're after, you'll want to purchase this budget-friendly, dual-voltage dryer from Revlon. It packs an impressive 1,875 watts, which is what many full-sized dryers boast, as well as A+ airflow, which means you'll achieve the fastest blowout ever. The handle folds in and it's very compact. Not only that, but this Revlon dryer has two heat settings and a cool shot button as well as ceramic coating to keep frizz at bay. And that's all for under $20. However, some users complain that this dryer didn't last them too long.

llano Lightweight Folding Ionic Hair Dryer

If you and your travel buddies are usually on different schedules, and you'd rather get hairstyling out of the way before starting your day, you'll want to invest in this ultra-quiet Llano travel dryer. Users rave that it's whisper-quiet, reaching up to just 58 decibels (for reference, the average hair dryer produces a noise level of around 85 decibels), so you can trust it not to wake up the later risers in your crew. And this collapsible, lightweight dryer doesn't compromise in strength: The impressive 1,400-watt motor means you'll get a fast, shiny blowout in no time.

Plavogue Hair Dryer Brush

Consider this the travel-friendly version of the cult favorite Dry Bar Double Shot Blow Dryer Brush. Unlike Dry Bar's version, this Plavogue Hair Dryer Brush has dual voltage so you can take it anywhere in the world. The oval brush ensures each strand gets hit with hot air for instant smoothness, and it helps add volume to your roots or curl out your ends for more bounce and movement. This pick is perfect for travel since you won't have to pack a separate brush along with your blow dryer. Talk about a space-saver! But some users note that the handle is wide and large and may not feel comfortable in your hand after a while.

Gama IQ Perfetto

"The Gamma Pro is super small and can be stored in luggage easily," Cabott says. At 10 ounces, it's about as lightweight as your iPhone, and packs in the power, producing sleek results thanks to three different speeds and temperatures as well as a cool shot button. This light travel dryer is ideal for folks with voluminous hair that takes a while to dry as the ergonomic design makes it easy and comfortable to use. But because it doesn't have dual voltage, you'll have to buy a converter to safely use it while traveling in other countries.

7Magic Fast-Drying Hair Dryer

When you've got reservations booked and places to be, the last thing you want to do is spend precious minutes smoothing out your hair. That's where the 7Magic ionic hair dryer comes in: It cuts your drying time significantly, requiring just 3 to 5 minutes for medium-length hair and up to 8 minutes for long, thick hair. It's great for carrying in your gym bag or purse since it weighs just under one pound, and it boasts one of the slimmest designs we've seen as well as a foldable handle for compact storage. But unless you plan to buy a voltage converter, you should leave this dryer at home if you're traveling to countries outside the U.S. and Canada as this tool doesn't have dual voltage.

Drybar Baby Buttercup Travel Blow-Dryer

Drybar's Baby Buttercup dryer's compact, lightweight design and collapsible handle make it super portable and perfect for travel or on-the-go styling. And with its super-cute logo travel bag scribbled with a cheeky slogan, you'll want to take this tool everywhere. Despite its small size, it delivers powerful airflow with two heat and speed settings, as well as a cool shot button. And with its dual voltage feature, it can be used internationally without using a voltage converter. Any traveler can feel confident bringing this travel dryer along for the ride, as it's suitable for naturally wavy, curly, and straight hair. But one thing that's worth noting is that some users found that the handle easily broke and they didn't get much longevity out of this dryer.

It's a 10 Miracle Mini Travel Professional Hair Dryer Kit

This hair-drying kit comes with everything you need to achieve super smooth hair. The mini hair dryer is powerful at 1,200 watts, has a dual voltage switch for international travel, and is lightweight and compact. You'll also get two 2-ounce shampoo and conditioner bottles that are TSA-friendly, so you can travel with this kit in your carry-on or purse. It's worth noting that the hair dryer's handle isn't foldable, so it might require some Tetris skills to fit around the contents of your luggage.

How we chose the best travel hair dryers

For weeks, Women's Health editors, have researched the best travel hair dryers to buy online. We also consulted hairstylist Laurabeth Cabott on features to look for in a travel hair dryer and vetted thousands of online reviews to find the very best options available online.

What kind of features should you look for in a travel hair dryer?

Compact, lightweight design: If you're looking into buying a travel hair dryer, it's probably because your full-size one is too big to carry with you. Cabbott recommends buying a travel dryer that weighs less than 3 pounds and has a foldable handle for easy storage. "You'll also want to make sure the dryer is durable, so it won’t get damaged easily if you’re storing it in a checked luggage bag," she adds.
High wattage to cut down on blow-dry time: The higher the wattage, the quicker your blowout. Cabbott says the ideal and most common wattage (aka power) for a blow dryer is 1,200. So anything lower than that won't dry your hair fast enough (translation: you'll have less time for the fun stuff).
Dual voltage for international travel: For stress-free styling abroad, make sure your dryer is equipped with dual voltage capability. This allows the dryer to work in different countries with varying electrical systems (FYI, the standard voltage in the United States and Canada is 110-120 volts, while many other countries operate on 220-240 volts). A dual-voltage hair dryer eliminates the need for a voltage converter or transformer. All you have to do is simply switch your dryer to the appropriate voltage setting, and start styling. But you still might need an adapter plug to fit different types of power outlets.

What are the best ways to use a hair dryer without damaging your hair?

Sorry gals, but hitting your hair with hot hair straight out of the shower isn't doing your 'do any good. "The best way to refrain from damaging hair with heat is to make sure your hair is at least 80% dry before using any hot tool, brush, or attachment," Cabbott says.

Instead of waiting forever for it to air-dry, you can use your blow dryer on the cool setting to dry your hair faster, and once it's almost fully dry, you can then use the hotter temperatures to style it to perfection.

April Benshosan is a New York City-based writer and editor. She graduated with a Master’s degree in Publishing from Pace University, and her byline appears on LIVESTRONG.com, Eat This, Not That!, Business Insider, MSN, Yahoo!, OK! Magazine, and Travel Squire. In her free time, you can catch April lifting weights, spending time with her pup, or planning her next vacation.

Why You Should Be Getting Hair Botox

A Handy Guide to Microlink Hair Extensions

Exactly How To Highlight Your Own Hair At Home

the master combs the eyebrows of the client after lamination of the eyebrows

Everything You Need To Know About Brow Lamination

How Red Light Therapy Works For Hair Growth

2024 musicares person of the year honoring jon bon jovi arrivals

Shania Twain Just Embraced the White Hair Trend

How To Use Hair Rollers

How To Get Rid Of A Cowlick

A Review Of Brooke Shields' New Hair Line

Product, Beauty, Skin care, Water, Material property, Spray, Fluid, Plastic bottle, Moisture, Bottle,

The 14 Best Hair Masks You Need To Try Now, Tested

This Is How Often You Should Wash Your Hair

We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.

5 best travel hair dryers for your 2024 holiday, tested by the GHI

The most lightweight and compact dryers to take on your travels, tested by our experts

We know space can be limited when it comes to suitcase allowances, but thanks to their handy compact size and lightweight design, a travel hair dryer will easily slot in alongside your other beauty essentials . Though small, they can still pack a punch, with some having the same power as a standard model.

These are the GHI's top-rated models but keep scrolling for our full reviews.

Best travel hair dryer

BaByliss Travel Hair Dryer

Best for curly hair

Remington on the go 2000w compact dryer.

Best for design

Ghd flight travel hair dryer.

Best compact travel hair dryer

Vo5 on the go mini hair dryer.

Best lightweight travel hair dryer

Instyler mini travel dryer, key features to look out for.

Foldable handle: This is particularly useful for larger travel dryers as it makes packing easier.

Dual voltage: You need around 220-240V to power your dryer at home, but this varies around the world, making dual voltage essential for frequent fliers. The voltage is usually printed somewhere on devices sold within the EU, so keep an eye out for ‘120/220-240V’, which means it’s dual voltage. You’ll need to switch it manually with a coin once you reach your destination.

Cool shot: If you struggle with frizziness or regularly visit hot and humid climates, look for a cool shot button. It helps set your style and seal cuticles, keeping moisture and humidity at bay and leaving hair looking shinier.

Wattage vs weight: Wattage refers to the power of your dryer – usually, the higher it is, the heavier the hair dryer. Balance styling needs with how much you're doing to be carrying it around and bear hand luggage weight restrictions in mind too — every gram counts in a carry-on!

Heat/speed settings: Use the lowest heat setting and a styling nozzle for styling hair. For drying, remove the styling nozzle and use the higher settings for speed. Every product listed below has two heat/speed settings.

How we test

Our GHI experts recruited 60 testers with different hair types to review a range of travel hair dryers. We then asked them to provided detailed feedback, considering ease of use, weight, noise level and final finish.

In the lab, we measured the temperature of the airflow, casing and nozzle, as well as assessing instructions, simplicity and design.

So, whether you're after a glamorous, bouncy blow dry for wandering the streets of Italy , or want to tame those fresh-off-the-beach curls in Gran Canaria , add one of these tried and tested options to your case...

This article was updating in June to reflect the latest prices and discounts.

Score: 81/100

With the power of a full-size hair dryer in a foldable, compact body, this BaByliss model provides ultra-fast drying. It also has a wide, detachable styling nozzle, which testers liked as it made styling easier.

Plus, the casing stayed within a safe handling temperature throughout our lab test, even on the highest setting.

Key specifications

Score: 80/100

From a concentrator nozzle for ultra-smooth blow dries to a compact diffuser for beautiful waves and curls, this dryer comes with all the accessories you need to style any hair type on the go.

It even has a small key accessory to switch the voltage output with ease. This is a high performer for styling and one of the best on test for speed, drying hair impressively quickly on its highest setting.

Score: 79/100

This travel hairdryer ticks all the right boxes; not only is it lightweight with dual voltage and a cool shot button, it also comes with a matching dust bag for protection on the move.

It performed highly on test, scoring full marks for ease of use and overall satisfaction. The slim handle was comfortable to hold and testers liked the easy-access controls. The dryer also has ‘hair safeguard technology’, which means it automatically switches off if held too close to the hair.

Score: 78/100

If luggage space is an issue for you, consider this Vo5 mini dryer. It measures just 22 x 14 cm, one of the smallest models on test, but its performance belies its size. It was one of our top scorers for helping to reduce frizz and testers said the cord length allowed them to reach around their head with ease.

The concentrator nozzle directed the airflow precisely and testers found the body to be sturdy and robust. It doesn’t have a foldable handle, but it’s slim enough to slip into almost any space.

Score: 70/100

Popular with testers for its sleek, stylish design and light-up filter, this was also the quietest dryer on test. Our panel was impressed with how powerful the airflow is relative to its size and weight, which InStyler puts down to the same turbine technology used in its full-size dryer.

It was quick to manoeuvre around the root areas due to its slimline body and the majority of testers agreed their hair was left looking healthy and smooth after styling.

Florence is our Senior Beauty Writer, specialising in expert-tested beauty and grooming reviews — from toothbrushes to the latest skincare launches. She’s committed to sharing recommendations for products that truly work and make people feel confident and healthy. Prior to this she was at Tropic Skincare, where she worked closely with biochemists in the lab, delving into the functions of each fresh, natural ingredient and conveying its efficacy to her audience in easy-to-digest terms.

With over five years’ experience in beauty and health journalism, Florence has written for ELLE , Women’s Fitness , Sister Magazine, National Geographic Traveller and many more, with a strong sustainability angle thread through much of her work.

When she isn’t packing for a trip away, working out, eating out or reading up on retinol serums, you’ll probably find her experimenting with her film camera and building her portfolio of portraits. Florence’s photography can be found at florencereeves-white.com , her Instagram is @florencereeveswhite and her twitter is @floreadsnwrites

Maria is our Beauty and Grooming Testing Manager, and since joining in mid-2022, she has managed the testing for mutiple categories including scalp scrubs, collagen supplements and retinol serums. In addition to her master's degree in chemical engineering and a diploma in cosmetic science, she recently received her MBA from the London College of Fashion, focusing on case studies within the beauty industry. Prior to joining the company, she worked within the global technical team at the Estee Lauder Companies for over six years, collaborating with the chemists and engineers to launch luxury beauty products at scale and to quality. She has also worked as a formulation scientist within the pharmaceutical industry and takes this evidence based approach into all her product testing.

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Hair dryer reviews

VO5 On the Go Mini Dryer review

InStyler MINI travel dryer review

Revamp Professional review

Beauty Reviews

18 best retinol serums, according to 200 testers

The best blonde hair dyes for 2024

Best bronzers for a sun-kissed glow

25 best eye creams for wrinkles and fine lines

12 best heat protect sprays 2024

The best skin saviours for your hands

The best LED face masks, tried and tested

The GHI put ghd’s Duet Style to the test

The Ultimate Guide to Packing Hair Products for Your Travels

H itting the road shouldn't mean sacrificing your hair care routine. Whatever your hair type, with a little preparation, you can maintain your locks and get a refreshing look for your curls , even on the go. Here's your ultimate guide to packing hair products for a stress-free, good hair day adventure.

Know Your Limits

First things first; understand airline luggage restrictions. Most airlines limit liquids and gels to 3.4 ounces (100ml) per container in a clear, resealable quart-sized bag. This means downsizing your favorite full-sized bottles is essential.

Brands often offer travel-sized versions of popular shampoos, conditioners, and styling products. Look for these pre-portioned lifesavers to streamline your packing and ensure you breeze through airport security without any last-minute product decanting struggles.

You can also streamline your routine by opting for multi-tasking products. A 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner cuts down on packing and works wonders for shorter trips. Leave-in conditioners with detangling and heat-protectant properties can replace several single-use products.

Feeling crafty? Invest in travel-sized, refillable containers and decant your favorite products. This gives you more control over portion sizes and lets you bring your non-travel-sized holy grails. Just be sure to label them clearly.

Pack Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoo is a travel essential, no matter your hair type. It's a triple threat, tackling excess oil, adding volume, and letting you stretch washes for that extra day. This makes it perfect for refreshing second-day hair that's lost its oomph, or reviving limp locks after a long flight that left them feeling flat.

Less is More

Be honest about your needs. Do you need that entire bottle of hair oil? Packing light is key, so prioritize must-have products and consider your destination's climate and activities too.

Will you be swimming in the ocean? Pack a travel-sized deep conditioner. Skiing in the mountains? Bring a frizz-fighting serum. By tailoring your products to your needs and the environment, you can pack a lightweight but effective hair care routine.

Embrace Protective Styles

Protective hairstyles like braids, twists, or buns are ideal for travel. First, they require minimal daily maintenance, which means less time spent wrestling with your hair and more time exploring your destination.

Second, they act like a built-in barrier, keeping your hair tucked away from the elements — perfect for battling beach wind, pool chlorine, or even unexpected snow flurries. The best part? These styles can be incredibly stylish, letting you rock a fresh look that complements your travel adventures.

No disaster puts a damper on a trip quite like a leaky shampoo bottle exploding in your suitcase. To prevent this travel nightmare, double down on leak protection. Wrap lids with plastic wrap and secure them with a rubber band. Then, stand those bottles upright inside a zip-lock bag for an extra layer of defense.

Now, for easy access and organization, keep all your hair products corralled in a sturdy Dopp kit. For frequent flyers, a clear Dopp kit lets you breeze through TSA security without needing to unpack everything.

What About Styling Tools?

Hair dryers and straighteners can be bulky, but they don't have to be a travel dealbreaker. If you can't imagine life without your heat styling tools, there are travel-sized versions that deliver enough heat for quick styling without taking up precious luggage space.

However, for a truly relaxed approach, consider leaving the hot tools at home altogether. Pack light on styling products and embrace a more natural look. Grab a wide-tooth comb or pick for easy detangling. Or let your hair air dry on vacation and enjoy the freedom from heat damage.

On top of that, you can indulge in a bit of local self-care . Pack light on styling products and treat yourself to a travel-sized hair mask or treatment from a local beauty store. It's a fun way to pamper your hair while experiencing new products and bringing back a unique travel souvenir.

Happy Hair, Happy Travels

Packing hair products for travel doesn't have to be stressful. With a little preparation, you can maintain your hair care routine and even get a refreshing look for your curls, even on the go. The key is planning, prioritizing your must-have products, and considering your itinerary's climate and activities to ensure you have everything you need to conquer travel hair woes.

The post The Ultimate Guide to Packing Hair Products for Your Travels appeared first on The Rebel Chick .

Hitting the road shouldn't mean sacrificing your hair care routine. Whatever your hair type, with a little preparation, you can maintain your locks and get a refreshing look for your curls, even on the go. Here's your ultimate guide to packing hair products for a stress-free, good hair day adventure. Know Your Limits First things...Read More

Amazon Prime Day
All Wellness
All Skin Care
Moisturizers
Mineral Sunscreens
Sunscreens for Kids
Sunscreens for Dark Skin
SPF Lip Balms
Under Eye Patches
All Hair Care
Purple Shampoos
Thinning Hair
Head Shavers
Hair Dryers
All Oral Care
Electric Toothbrushes
Toothpastes
Mouthwashes
Water Flossers
Meal Kit Delivery
Gluten-Free Meal Kit Delivery
Disposable Face Masks
Air Purifiers
Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents
Natural Deodorants
Period Underwear
All Fitness
Exercise Bikes
Walking Shoes
Fitness Trackers
Reusable Water Bottles
Blackout Curtains
Sound Machines
Home & Kitchen
All Home & Kitchen
Kitchen Appliances & Tools
All Kitchen Appliances & Tools
Coffee Makers
Kitchen Gadgets
Small Home Appliances
All Small Home Appliances
Air Conditioners
Space Heaters
Humidifiers
Bedding & Bath
All Bedding & Bath
Bath Towels
Silk Pillowcases
Duvet Inserts
Office Chairs
Standing Desks
Desk Organizers
Seat Cushions
Under Desk Ellipticals
All Outdoor
Raised Garden Boxes
Garden Hoses
Beach Towels
Solar Pool Covers
Grilling Accessories
Electronics
All Electronics
Wifi Routers
Gaming Consoles
Streaming Devices
Instant Cameras
Handheld Gaming Consoles
3D Printers
All Headphones
Noise Canceling
Wireless Earbuds
Smart Gadgets
All Smart Gadgets
Smart Watches
Smart Bulbs
Garage Door Openers
All Computers
Gaming Laptops
Laptops for College Students
Computer Monitors
Ergonomic Keyboards
Dog Carriers
Litter Boxes
Scratching Posts
Cat Carriers
All Pet Care
Nail Clippers
Flea & Tick
All Luggage
Lightweight
Weekender Bags
Accessories
All Accessories
Luggage Tags
Travel Pillows
Tech Gadgets
Packing & Organization
All Packing & Organization
Packing Cubes
Toiletry Bags
Gift Guides
All Gift Guides
Valentine's Day
All Valentine's Day
For Any Loved Ones
Mother's Day
All Mother's Day
Last Minute Gifts
Best Mother's Day Gifts
For Moms Who Have Everything
Best from Amazon
All Graduation
For College Grads
For High School Grads
For Teachers
Father's Day
All Father's Day
Best Father's Day Gifts
For Dads Who Love Fishing
Holiday Season & Christmas
All Holiday Season & Christmas
Gifts Under $25
Practical Gifts
Other occasions & loved ones
All Other occasions & loved ones
For Grandparents
For Bridal Shower
For New Parents
For Any Occasion
Deals & Sales
All Deals & Sales
Most Popular This Month
Sales This Week
New & Notable
What to Buy This Month
CNBC Select
All CNBC Select
Credit Cards
Small Business
Personal Finance
Credit Monitoring
Help for Low Credit Scores
Sign up for the Select Newsletter
Check out Shop TODAY
Privacy Policy
Do Not Sell My Personal Information
Terms Of Service
NBC News Sitemap

Follow Select

Top-rated travel diffusers for smooth, defined curls whenever, wherever

There are a few different types of travel diffusers, including collapsible versions and soft, sock-like diffusers.

If you’ve ever owned a hair dryer , there’s a good chance you’ve encountered a diffuser attachment before. Diffuser attachments are round, claw-like pieces that fit onto the nozzle of a hair dryer and, spread out any air emitted from the blow dryer. This allows for a gentler and more even airflow than what you might get from the nozzle alone.

Diffusers are especially useful for people with curly hair, since, by evenly dispersing (and slowing) the force of air, they can dry waves, curls and coils without affecting their shape and definition. Plus, depending on how you use your diffuser, this attachment can also boost volume and enhance texture.

However, diffusers’ round, thick shape can make them bulky, so they may be particularly troublesome to travel with. Some are even designed to fit only on dedicated hair dryers, which is why finding a portable option can be helpful. With that in mind, we asked hairstylists to share their picks for travel diffusers that’ll give you healthy, shiny curls wherever, whenever.

Our top picks

How we picked top-rated travel diffusers

If the size of a standard diffuser is too large for your luggage, then you have two options, according to experts we spoke with. You can either find a collapsible diffuser, which folds into a flat, round shape, or opt for a sock diffuser, which is made of a soft, foldable material. Some also prefer to use the attachments that come included when you buy a travel hair dryer. Here’s what else to consider.

Compatibility : Diffusers aren’t always one-size-fits-all. If you’re planning to use a hotel hair dryer, opt for a diffuser attachment that comes in a universal size to ensure it fits.
Material : The material of your appliance can determine how much space it will take up. Soft, mesh materials will take up the least amount of space.
Size: Diffusers can differ in their diameter, which can impact how easily they are to travel with’ as well as how they style hair.

select Why co-washing can be a game changer for curly and coily hair

Top-rated travel diffusers to shop in 2024.

Below, we compiled the travel diffusers that experts use to style their clients’ hair on the road. We also include travel hair dryers that come with diffuser attachments, since these often have more bells and whistles, like cool-shot buttons and multiple heat settings, than your average hotel dryer. (Plus, there’s no guarantee that a dryer will necessarily be available wherever you’re traveling.) For that reason, we included recommendations for both.

Top-rated travel diffusers

Ys park large diffuser.

Several experts we spoke with recommended this soft sock dryer, since it’s incredibly versatile. “I use this diffuser for setting a wet look and drying men’s hair, as well as drying natural waves and curls,” says Jennifer Nast , a hairstylist at Sharon Dorram Salon at Sally Herschberger in New York City. Mia Santiago , a hairstylist in Los Angeles, also says that it’s easy to pack and use. The mesh fabric is infused with silver and titanium particles, which help it retain heat, plus it comes with an adjustable strap to fit any nozzle, according to the brand.

Compatibility: Universal | Material: Mesh | Size: N/A

Hot Sock The Ultralight Diffuser

Unlike a plastic option, this foam sock diffuser is small enough to put in a purse and is effectively weightless, according to the brand. It has a 4.3-star average rating from 2,771 reviews on Amazon, and should extend as far as four inches beyond the tip of the dryer, according to Hot Sock.

Compatibility: Universal | Material: Foam | Size: N/A

The Curly Co. Collapsible Hair Diffuser

The stretchy, flexible silicone of this diffuser, which collapses flat to a width of 2.25 inches, can fit on most hair dryer nozzles, according to the brand. It also has built-in grips, and works best with low heat, according to The Curly Co. It has a 4.1-star average rating from 5,410 reviews on Amazon.

Compatibility: Universal | Material: Silicone | Size: 5.25-inch diameter

Conair Volumizing Universal Hair Diffuser

When she doesn’t want to pack a hair dryer, Sandra Almanzar , a Davines Salon specialist and hairstylist, relies on this diffuser, saying that it fits comfortably in her suitcase. Plus, this has prongs, or fingers, which lift the hair while diffusing, adding volume and body to the hair, she says. It doesn’t have the smallest profile, but it does fit most hair-dryer nozzles, including many Conair models, according to the brand.

Compatibility: Conair hair dryers | Material: Plastic | Size: 5.5-inch diameter

Top-rated travel hair dryers with diffusers

Curlsmith de-frizzion travel hair dryer & diffuser.

Curlsmith De-Frizzion Travel Hair Dryer & Diffuser

While this hair dryer is relatively small as it is, the handle folds down to further shrink its footprint. It has dual voltage, multiple speed and heat settings, and comes with a 6-inch diffuser, which is smaller than the 8-inch version that Curlsmith typically offers, according to the brand. The dryer, which has a 5.0-star rating from 47 reviews at Sephora, also comes with a storage bag.

Combined weight of diffuser and blow dryer: 1.1 pounds | Size: 6-inch diameter

Bed Head Curls-in-Check 1875W Hair Diffuser Dryer

This diffuser, which comes recommended by NBC Select associate updates editor Zoe Malin , is built into a compact dryer (although you can remove it for cleaning and to increase the airflow). It has three heat and two speed settings as well as a cool-shot button, according to the brand. “It honestly doesn’t take up much space in my luggage and is super reliable,” says Malin. “I’ve had mine for over a year and use it at home every day in addition to while traveling.”

Combined weight of diffuser and blow dryer: 1.55 pounds | Size: 8.5-inch diameter

Dyson Supersonic

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

The Dyson Supersonic has a slim profile and light weight (clocking in at 1.8 pounds) that makes it easier to pack than the typical hair dryer. It comes with a diffuser that magnetically attaches to the nozzle of the dryer. “I absolutely love the diffuser attachment with the Dyson blow dryer because of the long prongs and how it dries the hair evenly,” says Almanzar.

Combined weight of diffuser and blow dryer: 1.8 pounds | Size: 5.5-inch diameter

InfinitiProBy Conair Worldwide Travel Folding Dryer

This folding travel hair dryer has two voltage levels, which automatically adjust when you plug it in, according to the brand. It also has an LED display to note the voltage, too, as well as three heat and two speed options. The diffuser attachment itself has long prongs, and the dryer has a 4.4-star average rating from more than 1,100 ratings on Amazon.

Combined weight of diffuser and blow dryer: 1.55 pounds | Size: 4.7-inch diameter

select We tried Shark’s two new hair tools for 10 days — here’s what to know

How to shop for travel diffusers.

When you’re shopping for a travel diffuser, the most important thing to consider is whether you want a standalone diffuser — meaning you’ll attach it to a hotel hair dryer — or a diffuser attachment that comes with a travel hair dryer.

That said, the wattage (which measures the power of the dryer and influences the drying time) will differ between hotels, travel dryers, and your usual, at-home hair dryer. “Most travel dryers aren’t as powerful as an at-home dryer, so it may take a bit longer than normal to diffuse your hair,” says Meri Kate O’Connor , a hair colorist at Benjamin Salon in West Hollywood, CA.

Then, there’s the type of diffuser. There are generally two types to consider:

Sock diffusers: These are essentially small, sock-like bags that cover the end of the blow-dryer. “This option can easily be packed in any carry-on or suitcase,” says Nast. This type of diffuser is very gentle on the hair, but it can take longer to fully dry waves and curls.
Collapsible diffusers: These diffusers, which are typically made of silicone or plastic, pop out for diffusing, and then collapse down for storage. As a result, they’re helpful for saving space while traveling, says O’Connor. The drawback is that depending on the quality of the diffuser, it might not stay popped open while you’re using it.

The material of your diffuser is also important to consider when shopping. Some are made of silicone, which allow the base of the diffuser to fit over any nozzle size. Others are made of plastic; the advantage here is that these typically have prongs throughout, which grip and lift the hair while you diffuse, improving volume and texture.

And, of course, the size matters. The larger the diffuser, the more evenly it can disperse air — and the faster your hair dries. However, “compact or collapsible diffusers may have a smaller diffusing area,” says Almanzar. “This could slightly compromise the overall styling effect compared to standard-sized diffusers.” It’s ultimately the tradeoff for being able to easily transport a diffuser.

Who should use a hair diffuser?

If you have any bend to your hair, be it a loose 2A wave or a springy 4B coil, a diffuser can be helpful. “A diffuser attachment is beneficial for individuals with curly or wavy hair textures , as it helps enhance natural curls and reduce frizz,” says Almanzar. “It can also be used by anyone looking to add volume and texture to their hair.”

That’s because these attachments diffuse the airflow coming from your hair dryer, making it gentler so the force of it doesn’t straighten out hair or reduce definition. (For my own 2C and 3A curls, which I typically air dry, I find that using a diffuser is a fast way to get a tousled, air-dried look without the wait.)

Using a hair dryer with a powerful airflow, can inadvertently cause frizz, so the diffuser also minimizes frizz and flyaways and delivers a smoother, shinier appearance to curls.

How to use a hair diffuser

First, it’s important to position your diffuser correctly. Start by aiming the diffuser downward, in the direction of the hair shaft, says O’Connor. By aiming the airflow in a single direction, it helps keep the cuticle of the hair — and your hair itself — smooth.

Try not to touch your hair during this step, since doing so can create frizz. (And, depending on the material of the diffuser — as with a sock diffuser — you could make your hair fuzzy.) Then, “gently check the hair periodically to see how dry the hair is,” says Nast. “When you are about 80 to 90 percent dry, lower the heat and speed level.”

At this point, you can go in and start scrunching your hair with your hands, moving the diffuser around the hair and placing your curls in the bowl of the diffuser until they’re fully dry. You can also style your hair to get different effects. For instance, if you’re looking for volume, you can flip your head upside down or tilt it to the right or left while aiming your diffuser upwards, says Santiago.

For the best results, “don’t drag your diffuser through your hair,” she says. “Bounce it in and out to disperse the airflow into the hair.”

How to pack a diffuser

Once you have your diffuser in hand, it’s important to pack it right. If you’re working with a sock diffuser, it’s simple: Simply fold it up and stash it with the rest of your clothes or toiletries . Meanwhile, when packing a standard-size diffuser for travel, “try placing it in the middle of your suitcase , preferably between clothes,” says Nast. (That way, it’ll be cushioned to minimize the chance of it breaking.)

But you can adjust it to whatever feels most secure. For instance, “I keep mine sideways to pack things around it so it doesn’t move or get broken,” says Santiago.

Meet our experts

At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

Jennifer Nast is a hairstylist at Sharon Dorram Color at Sally Hershberger Salon in New York, NY, where she specializes in easy-to-maintain haircuts.
Sandra Almanzar is a Davines Salon specialist and hairstylist based in New York, NY.
Mia Santiago is a hairstylist who splits her time between Columbus, OH, New York City, and Los Angeles. She specializes in editorial, advertising, and red-carpet hairstyling.
Meri Kate O’Connor is a hair colorist at Benjamin Salon in West Hollywood, CA. She focuses on blonde hair colors, as well as extensions and keratin treatments.

Why trust NBC Select?

Deanna Pai is a freelance beauty writer and editor who has been covering beauty and health for more than a decade, including recent stories on how to identify your curl type and roundups of the best brushes and combs . She uses a diffuser to dry her Types 2C and 3A curls in a pinch, and interviewed four hairstylists to learn how to take your hair diffuser on the go.

Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Deanna Pai is a freelance writer and editor at NBC Select.

'Shop It Like It's Hot': 10 on-the-go gadgets for summer travel

Big summer travel plans?

We're rounding up gadgets you can take on the go to make summer traveling easier.

'As seen on social': 5 viral products to kick off summer

For example, shop compression packing cubes to help organize your outfits, a foldable wireless charger that powers three devices at once and a portable espresso machine so you're never without your caffeine fix.

Check out all of this and more, below.

By clicking on these shopping links, visitors will leave Goodmorningamerica.com. These e-commerce sites are operated under different terms and privacy policies than Goodmorningamerica.com. ABC will receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Influencers may receive a commission or have business relationships with a recommended brand. SOME PRICES ARE DYNAMIC AND MAY CHANGE FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. Have questions about ordering or a purchase? Click here .

Compression Packing Cubes for Travel

Twelve South AirFly SE Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter Receiver for AirPods or Wireless Headphones

The Foldable Wireless Travel Charger

Hammacher Schlemmer

Baby Shusher - The Original Shhh Calming Sound Machine for Baby

WACACO Minipresso NS, Portable Espresso Machine

So Smooth Hair Dryer

Rocketbook Core Reusable Smart Notebook

AMACOOL Neck Fan Battery Operated Neckband

LARQ Bottle PureVis 17 oz - Self-Cleaning and Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

AirTag Wallet Passport Travel Package with Cover Holder Case and Luggage Keychain Tag Accessory with Vaccine Card Protector for Men and Women (Black)

Up next in shop—.

GMA Deals & Steals on summer solutions

Elevate your backyard barbecue with these chic and affordable items

Amazon Prime Day 2024: What to know and deals to shop right now

This top-rated bra is on sale for up to 54% off at Amazon

Shop editors picks, sponsored content by taboola.

Privacy Policy —
Your US State Privacy Rights —
Children's Online Privacy Policy —
Interest-Based Ads —
Terms of Use —
Do Not Sell My Info —
Contact Us —

Beauty & Personal Care
Styling Tools & Appliances
Hair Dryers & Accessories
Hair Dryers

Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime Try Prime and start saving today with fast, free delivery

Amazon Prime includes:

Fast, FREE Delivery is available to Prime members. To join, select "Try Amazon Prime and start saving today with Fast, FREE Delivery" below the Add to Cart button.

Cardmembers earn 5% Back at Amazon.com with a Prime Credit Card.
Unlimited Free Two-Day Delivery
Streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with limited ads on Prime Video.
A Kindle book to borrow for free each month - with no due dates
Listen to over 2 million songs and hundreds of playlists
Unlimited photo storage with anywhere access

Important: Your credit card will NOT be charged when you start your free trial or if you cancel during the trial period. If you're happy with Amazon Prime, do nothing. At the end of the free trial, your membership will automatically upgrade to a monthly membership.

Return this item for free

We offer easy, convenient returns with at least one free return option: no shipping charges. All returns must comply with our returns policy.

Go to your orders and start the return
Select your preferred free shipping option
Drop off and leave!

Return instructions

This item has been tested to certify it can ship safely in its original box or bag to avoid unnecessary packaging. Since 2015, we have reduced the weight of outbound packaging per shipment by 41% on average, that’s over 2 million tons of packaging material.

Image Unavailable

To view this video download Flash Player

LURA Travel Hair Dryer with Diffuser and Concentrator:Mini Blow Dryer with European Plug,Small Dual Voltage Portable Hairdryer with Travel Bag,Compact Lightweight 1200W Blowdryer for Men and Kids Red

Purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

【Mini But powerful】Mini hair dryer has compact size (palm size) and light weight( 0.71lb)，All of which means that it takes up little space in your travel package and is great for business trips,In addition, Small hair dryer built-in DC motor and centrifugal 8 blades turbofan makes the wind pass through the conical turbocharged duct to produce strong wind.
【Dual Voltage Design】To facilitate your international travel,We have designed a dual voltage function(125V/250V), You can easily switch the voltage by using our small wrench placed on the hook. Note: before use, be sure to adjust to the correct voltage
【Designed for Travel】Compared with other brands of travel hair dryers, we offer extra EU plug and travel bag.the EU plug is convenient for your European travel, while the travel bag is good for your storage
【Comes with 2 Attachments】To meet needs of all hairstlyes，We provide two nozzles,Concentrate nozzle is ideal for precision styling on straight hair.Diffuser helps define curly hair while keeping it frizz-free
【2 heat/speed settings】High heat/high speed provides a strong airflow to dry your hair fast，Perfect for women's thick long hair, low heat/low speed creates a soft hair flow to smooth your hair,suitable for men's short hair and children's sparse hair

Frequently bought together

LURA Travel Hair Dryer with Diffuser and Concentrator:Mini Blow Dryer with European Plug,Small Dual Voltage Portable Hairdrye

Conair 3-in-1 Styling Hair Dryer, 1875W Hair Dryer with Ionic Technology and 3 Attachments

From the brand

D28 Mini Portable Travel Hair Dryer with Diffuser

Travel essentials

Visit the Store

For the past 30 years,we have produced a collection of hairdressing products designed by our professional R&D team. We also provide premium quality styling tools for many famous brands worldwide.Maybe you have unintentionally experienced our products before and are delighted to have such a perfect item,In order to let more people feel this joy,we have created our LURA brand which we strongly believe will give you a greater styling experience

products are more user-friendly

We like to listen to customer feedback, which helps us understand what they like about the product,what they dislike,and what they would like to see changed.Ultimately our designers translate customer needs into product features.

products are more reliable and durable

Our high-quality products benefit from rationality of designers,rationality of production and rigor of quality control

after-sales service is better

If you are not satisfied with our products for any reasons,please don`t hesitate to tell us,we will take our immediate action to reply to you

Product Description

Suitable For Various Scenarios

1.When you are at home,you can use the high speed of compact hair dryer to dry your hair quickly, and then use the low temperature of kids hair dryer for your children.

2.When you go on a business trip, you can take our lightweight hair dryer instead of using the hotel hairdryer

3.When you get wet on your way to work, you can also use our small blow dryer to dry your hair and clothes.After use, you can put the mini hair dryer travel size in the drawer without taking up space

4.We know that the cabinets of gym are very small, so a travel blow dryer mini is necessary. When you take a shower, you can use our mens hair dryer to dry your hair quickly.

Product details

Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 8.9 x 5.43 x 3.39 inches; 1.28 Pounds
Date First Available ‏ : ‎ March 12, 2022
Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ LURA
ASIN ‏ : ‎ B09VDC2R4C
#683 in Hair Dryers

Compare with similar items

Videos for this product.

Click to play video

Honest review of LURA Travel Hair Dryer with Diffuser

Rebecca Sadhwani

Important information

Legal disclaimer.

Statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition.

Looking for specific info?

Customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the size, weight and travel of the hair dryer. For example, they mention it's small but mighty, perfect for travel and comes in a travel case. That said, some complain about the temperature being too hot and melting chunks of hair. Opinions are mixed on quality.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the size of the hair dryer. They say it's small but mighty, compact, and powerful. Some mention that it saves space in the suitcase.

"...Worked great with my power converter. It is light and surprisingly powerful ." Read more

" Size is good and so is portability. However,Poor quality. It would barely get warm on my trip to Greece. Poor value for the money!!" Read more

"...I dont have to take my giant hair drier and its accessories. Saves space in the suitcase .It blows the air like a beast...." Read more

"It’s small but very strong! It works very well abroad" Read more

Customers find the hair dryer perfect for travel, as it is light and easy to travel with. They also appreciate the travel case and bag, which pack really well in a suitcase.

" Perfect for travel I have curly hair and bought a universal diffuser adapter that was not great, this was a great price and I got it before a..." Read more

"...Also what is nice, it has a small travel bag which again packs really well in a suitcase , and is great for storing when not needed." Read more

"...It comes with all the needed accessories and a nice travel bag ." Read more

"... Perfect for travel ." Read more

Customers like the weight of the hair dryer. They say it's very light and easy to travel with. However, some customers report issues with the quality of the product.

"...Worked great with my power converter. It is light and surprisingly powerful." Read more

"Size is good and so is portability . However,Poor quality. It would barely get warm on my trip to Greece. Poor value for the money!!" Read more

"...it is super lightweight also...." Read more

"Used in Italy and it was very powerful and lightweight for traveling . I had an electrical adapter for the different electric voltage" Read more

Customers are mixed about the quality of the hair dryer. Some mention that it works great, while others say that it's a poor product that stopped working.

"I took this lightweight hair dryer with me to Italy…. Worked great with my power converter . It is light and surprisingly powerful." Read more

"Size is good and so is portability. However, Poor quality . It would barely get warm on my trip to Greece. Poor value for the money!!" Read more

"...I was able to use it in both countries, and it dried my hair really well . for reference, I have very thick, course hair...." Read more

"...actually burnt out so I only got to use it for two days before it stopped working ...." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the temperature of the hair dryer. They mention that it's too hot and overheats. Some customers also say that it melts a few chunks of hair.

"...However,Poor quality. It would barely get warm on my trip to Greece. Poor value for the money!!" Read more

"...Absolutely use a heat protector spray bc this thing is hot , I use the “low” of the two hot settings" Read more

"It would get very hot and actually burnt out so I only got to use it for two days before it stopped working...." Read more

"...At the lowest setting it is too hot and blowing too powerful. I bought it for a trip to Germany...." Read more

Reviews with images

Sort reviews by Top reviews Most recent Top reviews

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later..

Top reviews from other countries

Disclaimer : While we work to ensure that product information is correct, on occasion manufacturers may alter their ingredient lists. Actual product packaging and materials may contain more and/or different information than that shown on our Web site. We recommend that you do not solely rely on the information presented and that you always read labels, warnings, and directions before using or consuming a product. For additional information about a product, please contact the manufacturer. Content on this site is for reference purposes and is not intended to substitute for advice given by a physician, pharmacist, or other licensed health-care professional. You should not use this information as self-diagnosis or for treating a health problem or disease. Contact your health-care provider immediately if you suspect that you have a medical problem. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition. Amazon.com assumes no liability for inaccuracies or misstatements about products.

Amazon Newsletter
About Amazon
Accessibility
Sustainability
Press Center
Investor Relations
Amazon Devices
Amazon Science
Sell on Amazon
Sell apps on Amazon
Supply to Amazon
Protect & Build Your Brand
Become an Affiliate
Become a Delivery Driver
Start a Package Delivery Business
Advertise Your Products
Self-Publish with Us
Become an Amazon Hub Partner
› See More Ways to Make Money
Amazon Visa
Amazon Store Card
Amazon Secured Card
Amazon Business Card
Shop with Points
Credit Card Marketplace
Reload Your Balance
Amazon Currency Converter
Your Account
Your Orders
Shipping Rates & Policies
Amazon Prime
Returns & Replacements
Manage Your Content and Devices
Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
Conditions of Use
Privacy Notice
Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
Your Ads Privacy Choices

More From Forbes

The skincare and haircare products a beauty editor always travels with.

Share to Facebook
Share to Twitter
Share to Linkedin

Photo by Christian Vierig/Getty Images

The last thing anyone wants is for an unexpected summer breakout or humidity-induced hair mishap to ruin their vacation photos. But travel exposes the skin and body to a host of stressors, from the dehydrating effects of air travel to the sudden influx of alcoholic beverages and sugary treats. This is why the beauty-savvy crowd wants to be travel prepared.

“I travel a lot for work, so I have become a pro at this,” writes beauty expert and journalist Kayla Greaves in an e-mail to Forbes.com. Whether she is shooting a campaign, consulting or writing, the frequency with which the beauty editor travels has remained steady for over a decade. This has resulted in a streamlined curation of beauty products for travel that she has personally vetted.

“[As a beauty editor], the free products and everything is cool, but my real goal has always been to create stories that help people who look like me feel seen and understood,” she explains of her passion for inclusive beauty reporting. “I never had that growing up, so I know how impactful that representation can be.”

Read on to peek inside beauty editor Kayla Greaves’ travel beauty kit of skincare, haircare and body care essentials.

Beauty expert and journalist Kayla Greaves.

Travel Beauty Essentials: Skincare

“I always want to make sure that my skin is thoroughly cleansed without being stripped, gently exfoliated, moisturized, soothed and protected,” Greaves says of her travel skincare regimen. Her daytime picks include a cleanser, antioxidant serum, hydration and sun protection—her favorite being the mineral sunscreen Tatcha The Silk Sunscreen SPF 50 , $64.

Biden Vs. Trump 2024 Election Polls: Trump Leads By 6 Points—And Most Voters Think He’ll Win Debate, New Survey Finds

Iss astronauts take shelter after russian spacecraft breaks up in orbit, samsung confirms highly anticipated galaxy z fold launch details.

“I am in love with the Norie Kimchii Cleanser , $18. It gives me a thorough cleanse, but keeps my skin balanced and curbs breakouts,” Greaves says of the gently exfoliating, probiotic-enriched cleanser. Like most daytime serums, her pick is formulated to help protect the skin from free radical damage with antioxidants like vitamin C . “ AlumierMD EverActive C&E Peptide Serum , $195, is a must for me. They come in a pack of three, so I can usually keep one in my travel bag.”

If you happened to lose sleep on the flight, Greaves has a fix for that. “ Fresh Black Tea Anti-Aging Eye Cream , $72, is fantastic and so easy to pack,” she says of the de-puffing eye cream . “It’s gentle and helps my eyes look brighter [and] lasts for quite a while.”

At night, she reaches for the Shani Darden Lactic Acid Exfoliating Serum , $89, for its gentle but effective exfoliant and brightening effect. When her skin is being “testy,” or if she needs to do extractions, she calls Rescue MD DNA Repair Complex , $88-$388, a “godsend” for soothing the skin and curbing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Another travel-friendly way to reduce inflammation is by icing the face for two-to-three minutes at a time, which can be easily done on-the-go with the reusable Melissa Imperial ‘Cryo” Facial Ice Popsicle , $32.

Greaves also names the skin barrier care as a top priority as the skin’s “first line of defense.” The dehydrating nature of plane travel and changes in climate pose two additional travel-related challenges that can compromise the barrier and the render skin more prone to inflammation. “The Augustinus Bader Skin Infusion , $430, is something I am really excited to add to my travel capsule,” she says of the luxury brand’s barrier-specific new launch. “I’ve been testing it for a few weeks and I can see a serious difference in my skin’s texture and tone. The [bottles] are also perfectly sized for travel.”

Beauty expert and journalist Kayla Greaves on vacation.

Travel Beauty Essentials: Haircare and Bodycare

Greaves’ travel haircare products depend on her hairstyle. “Right now I have my hair in a bob and I’m heat styling. So, my Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer , $429.00, and my go-to flat iron I’ve had for almost ten years are always coming with me,” she explains. “I try to wash my hair before I leave, but in case I need a styling product, Dove 7-in-1 Miracle Mist , $9.99, is a one-and-done for me.”

She likes to keep her body care regimen simple and straightforward. Because sun protection is non-negotiable, she uses the Coola Clear Sunscreen Spray SPF 50 , $28, or Vacation Classic Spray SPF 30 , $19, while on the road. The non-aerosol sprays are TSA-friendly and use chemical (as opposed to mineral) UV-blockers that make them blend invisibly on all skin ones.

“I recently partnered with Brown Sugar Babe on a body oil and perfume oil called IT Girl , $55, so that will definitely be coming with me [in my suitcase],” she adds. “In terms of lotion, you can never go wrong with Vaseline Intensive Care Nourishing Moisture , $3.99. I’m left with super soft and delicious-smelling skin.”

The Importance of Inclusive Beauty Picks

As Greaves offers up her expertise for curating travel beauty essentials, she reminds us that inclusive beauty messaging in the media is important; media bias impacts us all but is particularly damaging for underrepresented groups. This is exactly why Greaves believes so strongly in inclusive storytelling, having recently written a piece for Vogue on the topic of braids, their cultural significance for the Black community, and the impact of hair loss due to improper braiding practices. “Beauty is personal; it’s emotional. There are cultural ties we have to it,” she says. “Digging a little deeper for whoever is reading or listening is what makes stories memorable and what makes a difference.”

Editorial Standards
Reprints & Permissions

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts.

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's Terms of Service. We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
Content that otherwise violates our site's terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
Actions that otherwise violate our site's terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

Stay on topic and share your insights
Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
Protect your community.
Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's Terms of Service.

Credit cards
View all credit cards
Banking guide
Loans guide
Insurance guide
Personal finance
View all personal finance
Small business
Small business guide
View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

How Timeshare Presentations Earn Me Cheap Travel

Craig Joseph is a NerdWallet lead writer and credit cards expert. He has degrees in geology from West Virginia University and oceanography from Oregon State University and has published in academic journals, newspapers and blogs. Craig is passionate about personal finance and wants to enhance the financial literacy of everyone he meets. He'll probably also try to convince you why rocks are cool.

Giselle M. Cancio is an editor for the travel rewards team at NerdWallet. She has traveled to over 30 states and 20 countries, redeeming points and miles for almost a decade. She has over eight years of experience in journalism and content development across many topics.

She has juggled many roles in her career: writer, editor, social media manager, producer, on-camera host, videographer and photographer. She has been published in several media outlets and was selected to report from the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

She frequents national parks and is on her way to checking all 30 Major League Baseball parks off her list. When she's not on a plane or planning her next trip, she's crafting, reading, playing board games, watching sports or trying new recipes.

She is based in Miami.

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

The most avid travel hackers often shoot me a skeptical glare when I utter the words “ timeshare presentation ” as a way to get discounted hotel stays and piles of points to use toward future travel.

The deal is pretty simple: receive a heavily discounted hotel or resort stay and other perks in exchange for attending a timeshare presentation — better known as a sales pitch.

The last email offer I received was in March 2023 from Hilton Grand Vacations. It dangled a three-night stay in Las Vegas plus 50,000 Hilton Honors points in exchange for $149 and sitting through a 90-minute talk.

Having attended four timeshare presentations over the last decade, I find that the discounted hotel stay and extra perks — like hotel points and discounted spa treatments or amusement park tickets — are worth my time. All you have to do is attend the presentation and say “no” (sometimes several times) if the timeshare is not right for you.

Here’s how to get nearly free vacations with timeshare presentations.

Determine the value of the promotion, then negotiate

I've successfully negotiated the terms of a timeshare presentation in the past, so I called Hilton to see if it could sweeten the deal with upgrades like more travel rewards points or food and beverage credits.

After reviewing the terms of my promotion — and with some very polite back and forth — I requested an increase to 100,000 points and a waiver on the additional resort fees of $34 per night. After a long wait, the sales representative’s supervisor approved the deal if I accepted it on the spot, which I did.

According to NerdWallet’s valuation , Hilton points are generally worth about 0.5 cent each , giving the 100,000 points an approximate value of $500. The nightly room rate over my travel dates was $249, plus $34 per night in resort fees. That gives this deal a value of over $1,300 in exchange for 90-minutes of my time and the $149 I paid for the package.

Understand the restrictions and limitations

Certain hotels require attending the presentation with a spouse, while others may have specific income requirements. Ask about blackout dates, package expiration dates and any other hidden fees (like those pesky resort fees).

For Hilton, I had to verbally confirm my income was above a certain threshold and attest that I hadn’t participated in another Hilton-based timeshare presentation over the past six months.

Once I purchased the package, Hilton gave me 12 months to use it. After my reservation in Las Vegas was booked, Hilton assigned a set date and time for the timeshare presentation. If you miss it, the company can charge the full cash rate for the stay and revoke any perks offered.

Also be aware that you won't earn hotel points or elite night credits with the host brand for the promotional stay.

Know what to expect at the sales pitch

The pitch usually starts with an introduction to your salesperson and a general video or presentation about the company’s timeshare program. You’ll then be whisked away to an office, where the salesperson asks about your finances and travel habits. You’ll be introduced to a rubric of costs to stay at different tiers of properties — costs that may fluctuate seasonally or during periods of high demand.

Many timeshare companies, even Disney , have transitioned to a points-based system, where you buy points used to make reservations after you’re an “owner,” but be aware these points are independent of the chain’s loyalty program.

Once the salesperson estimates the cost required to live your best timeshare life, they’ll take you on a tour of a model property. You’ll then return to the office and be introduced to the “closer” — the person who ran the numbers and tries to pressure you into signing.

The sales professionals will tug at your emotions with aspirational travel fantasies while making you feel like family. Remember, they are incentivized by commissions to make you buy a timeshare through signing a contract that can last the rest of your life.

Timing the pitch using my phone allowed me to politely tell the salesperson their time was up once the required duration under the promotion elapsed (usually 90 to 120 minutes).

Be in the 'no'

Timeshares are big business, with $10.6 billion in domestic sales in 2023, according to a 2024 study by the American Resort Development Association (ARDA), a trade association for the timeshare industry. For comparison, that’s similar to the annual revenue of Major League Baseball in 2023.

Hospitality companies wouldn’t offer these lucrative promotions unless enough people were buying what they’re selling.

Jason Gamel, president and CEO of ARDA, says that approximately 2 in 10 people decide to buy after a sales presentation. And that purchase, of course, comes with a financial commitment. The average purchase transaction was $24,170 in 2023, according to the ARDA study, with average annual interest rates near 15%.

This amount covers the initial cost to join the timeshare and the financing of the balance but does not include ongoing costs such as membership dues, maintenance fees or other required resort operation expenses.

If you’re not in the market for a timeshare, no sales pitch should persuade you to get one. Before the pitch, think (or talk) through the process of saying “no,” and if you have a spouse who'll be attending, include them in the conversation.

Later, if you change your mind and decide to sign a contract, a state’s rescission laws could allow the contract to be canceled within a certain window after signing — usually between five and 10 business days.

“I think that’s important because it does help people evaluate whether they’re making the right decision for them, and it gives them a very easy way to say no after everything is said and done," says Gamel.

Simply pack up and go

Despite skepticism from my travel-hacking cohorts, timeshare promotions allow me to save money on travel now and earn rewards to use for free travel in the future. The process won’t be for everyone, but if you’re willing to sacrifice a couple of hours and know the power of saying “no,” it could do the same for you.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Citibank's application

1%-5% Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Also, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.

$200 Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

on Wells Fargo's website

2% Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases

$200 Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.

1x-3x Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Plus earn 1X points on other purchases.

20,000 Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.

How to Watch the 2024 BET Awards
BET Awards 2024 Nominations
Taraji P. Henson to Host 2024 BET Awards
BET Awards 2024: Usher to Be Honored
Latest BET Awards News

Apple AirTags Are on Sale Ahead of Amazon Prime Day: Save 20% on a 4-Pack for Summer Travel

Snag a rare discount on a four-pack of Apple AirTags with this early Amazon Prime Day deal.

Whether you're gearing up for a summer vacation or you're just prone to losing things, snagging a set of Apple AirTags at a discount is like a dream come true. AirTags are the best Bluetooth trackers around, so they don't go on sale too often, but you can stock up on these gadgets for less now. Ahead of Prime Day 2024, Amazon is offering a four-pack of AirTags for just $79, which is a discount of 20%.

Apple AirTag 4-Pack

A backpack left in the classroom or a misplaced set of keys is no match for these Apple AirTags. The trackers sync to the Find My app, making it easier to find nearby items by playing a sound through the AirTag's internal speaker.

The best-selling smart trackers typically sell for $29 apiece, but today's bundle deal drops the cost to less than $20 per tracker. This is a rare discount, so be sure to add the 4-pack of AirTags to your cart before the early Prime Day deal disappears. The single AirTag is also on sale for $25 if you only need one.

Apple AirTag

Lost luggage? Stolen bag? Those are things of the past with AirTags. This tiny tracker syncs to the iPhone's Find My app, making it easier to find nearby items by playing a sound through the AirTag's internal speaker. No more arriving at your destination empty-handed.

If you routinely misplace your keys, wallet or even AirPods , Apple's AirTags allow you to track down lost items with Precision Finding technology. Paired with an iPhone, iPad or other device through Apple ID, AirTags can be tracked using the Find My app, so you can receive AirTag notifications from when and where your lost item was last pinged. In Lost Mode, the AirTag will make a loud sound for easier finding.

Along with this early Prime Day Apple deal on AirTags, there are also great discounts on AirPods , iPads and MacBooks ahead of the sale extravaganza on July 16 and 17. Shop more of the best Apple deals below.

Best Early Prime Day iPad Deals

Apple ipad (10th generation).

The latest version of the classic iPad is refreshed and recharged with a gorgeous 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display and A14 Bionic chip.

$500 $469

WiFi + Cellular

2024 Apple iPad Pro

Featuring the breakthrough Ultra Retina XDR display, outrageously fast performance from the M4 chip, and speedy wireless connectivity, the 2024 iPad Pro is the ultimate iPad experience in an impossibly thin and light design.

$999 $945

2024 Apple iPad Air

Great for everyday users and high school or college students, the new version of the ultra-thin iPad Air runs using Apple's M2 processor. The 2024 edition of the iPad Air provides three times faster performance than the previous model.

$599 $569

Apple iPad Mini (6th Generation)

The iPad Mini has all of the features of a standard iPad but is designed to fit into one hand. Snag the latest version of this classic Apple device.

$499 $469

Best Early Prime Day AirPods Deals

All four models of Apple AirPods are on sale right now, including the noise-cancelling AirPods Max at their lowest price this year.

Apple AirPods (2nd Generation)

AirPods deliver an incredible wireless headphone experience. Simply remove them from their charging case and use them with all your devices.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

The H2 chip in Apple's latest AirPods Pro helps to create more intelligent noise cancellation and deeply immersive sound. Get up to 2 times more Active Noise Cancellation for dramatically less noise when you want to focus.

$249 $199

Apple AirPods Max

For those who love the sound quality of AirPods but prefer the over-the-ear headphones fit, the AirPods Max are a good fit. Activate the Active Noise Cancellation mode to reduce ambient noise while enjoying the music, or activate Transparency mode to hear surroundings.

$549 $449

Apple AirPods (3rd Generation)

The shorter stem of Apple's 3rd generation AirPods can make it easier for anyone with medium to larger ears to wear them comfortably. This generation also has a more accurate skin sensor to detect when they're in your ear, so they'll seamlessly stop playing music whenever you pop them out.

$169 $127

Best Early Prime Day MacBook Deals

13" apple 2024 macbook air.

The blazing-fast MacBook Air with Apple's M3 chip is under half an inch thin. With up to 18 hours of battery life, a 1080p FaceTime HD camera, three mics, and four speakers with Spatial Audio, everything looks and sounds great for longer.

$1,099 $949

15" Apple 2024 MacBook Air

The latest MacBook Air, equipped with Apple's powerful M3 chip and a stunning 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display, delivers enhanced capabilities and advanced AI features.

$1,299 $1,129

Apple 2023 MacBook Pro with M3 Chip

Get $300 off the newest MacBook Pro with Apple's advanced M3 chip.

$1,799 $1,649

Apple 2023 MacBook Pro with M2 Pro Chip

The MacBook Pro delivers exceptional performance with the power-efficient design of the M2 Pro chip. All your pro apps run lightning fast — including Adobe Creative Cloud, Xcode, Affinity Designer, Microsoft 365, and many more.

$2,499 $1,999

Apple 2022 MacBook Air

The redesigned MacBook Air weighs just 2.7 pounds and is more portable than ever. Anywhere you go, you can work, play, or create with this incredible laptop.

$999 $849

Thinking about becoming an Amazon Prime member ? We’ve got all your Prime Day 2024 questions answered , with info on key dates , early Amazon Prime Day deals you can shop right now and what to know to get the best prices on home , fitness gear , tech and more on Amazon .

Sign up for more shopping from ET Style!

The Best Apple AirPods Deals in June 2024

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 Is on Sale for Its Lowest Price Ever Right Now

20 Best Early Amazon Prime Day Apple Deals of 2024 to Shop Now

The Best iPad Deals Available Right Now: Save Up to $100 on Apple's Top-Rated Tablets

The Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones That Cost Less Than AirPods Max

The Best Apple AirTag Wallets to Stay Organized This Season

Amazon Prime Day

Updates on Celebrity News, TV, Fashion and More!

IMAGES

GHD Flight Travel Hair Dryer Gift Set
ghd Flight Travel Hair Dryer Gift Set
The best travel hair dryer to pack in your suitcase
The best travel hair dryer to pack in your suitcase
Travel Ready Hair Dryer and Straightener Set: The Perfect Combination
The best travel hair dryer to pack in your suitcase

VIDEO

Review Travel Hair Dryer Brush Blow Dryer
OHJUMP Travel Hair Dryer
Havells Travel Hair Dryer 3101
Philips Hair Straightener&Hair Dryer Combo Pack (HP8643) Review In Hindi
Vega Travel Pro 1200W Hair Dryer
Compact and Powerful: The Vega Travel-Pro 1200W Hair Dryer (VHDH-33) #Vega #HairDryer #Travel

COMMENTS

The 7 Best Travel Hair Dryers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
An added bonus: it comes with an adjustable diffuser, a comb nozzle, a smoothing nozzle, and a travel pouch. The Details: 4 heat settings | 3 speed settings | 10.5 ounces | 1200 watts | Includes ...
13 Best Travel Hair Dryers of 2024, Tested by Experts
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 ...
Amazon.com: Travel Size Hair Dryers
SKYMOON Hair Dryer, Lightweight Ionic Blow Dryer with 110,000 RPM High Speed Motor for Fast Drying, 1400W Thermal-Control 4 Temps & 3 Speeds Hairdryer for Home ＆Travel, White. 30. 100+ bought in past month. $12999 ($129.99/Count) Save 29% with coupon.
The 8 Best Travel Hair Dryers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Best Dual Voltage: BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer at Amazon ($35) Jump to Review. Best for Fast Drying: 7MAGIC Fast-Drying Hair Dryer at 7magicclub.com (See Price) Jump to Review. Best for Curly Hair: Revlon Airflow Control Dryer at Amazon ($50) Jump to Review.
12 Best Travel Hair Dryers, According to the Experts in 2024
T3's travel hair packs a lot into a small package. "This dryer is super powerful for being so small and lightweight. ... This travel hair dryer is designed to solve that issue; the device's ...
Best Travel Hair Dryer
See Details & Buying Options. View on Amazon. 3. Revlon Travel Hair Dryer. Best for: Packable foldability. Folded dimensions: 11 in x 4.5 in x 3.5 in (27.94 in x 11.43 cm x 8.89 cm) Some of us are very committed to a certain hand feel from our hair dryer and don't want to make sacrifices for travel. The Revlon Travel Hair Dryer feels a lot ...
Amazon.com: Best Travel Hair Dryer
Conair Travel Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage, 1600W Compact Hair Dryer with Folding Handle, Travel Blow Dryer. 4.6 out of 5 stars. 18,702. ... 1 Count (Pack of 1) 4.4 out of 5 stars. 6,909. 3K+ bought in past month. $34.99 $ 34. 99 ($34.99 $34.99 /Count) FREE delivery Wed, Jul 3 on $35 of items shipped by Amazon. Add to cart-
The 14 Best Travel Hair Dryers of 2024
Best for Long Hair: Mane This Totally Blows! Ionic Compact Hair Dryer at Sephora ($125) Jump to Review. Best Dual Voltage: ghd Flight+ Travel Hair Dryer at Amazon ($119) Jump to Review. Best for ...
7 Travel Hair Dryers That Won't Take Up Your Whole Suitcase
Best frizz-free hair dryer. Prepare to be blown away by Mane's travel-friendly hair dryer—compact enough to pack in your carry-on. The ion-powered blow dryer may be small (only weighing 13 ...
13 Best Travel Hair Dryers, Reviewed by Hairstylists
Best Budget: InfinitiPro by Conair Travel Hair Dryer, $35. Best Lightweight: BaBylissPro Nano Titanium Travel Dryer, $35. Best Dual-Voltage: Drybar Baby Buttercup Travel-Size Blow-Dryer, $139 ...
Best Travel Hair Dryers 2024
Best Value Travel Hair Dryer: Conair MiniPro Hair Dryer. Best Luxury Travel Hair Dryer: T3 Afar Hair Dryer. Best Dual-Voltage Travel Hair Dryer: Drybar Baby Buttercup Blow Dryer. Best Travel Hair ...
13 Best Travel Hair Dryers to Buy in 2023 (Tested & Reviewed)
Yup. Keep scrolling for all my favorite travel hair dryers from brands like BaByliss, Dyson, T3, and Conair. Happy shopping and happy hair days ahead! $37 at Amazon $37 at Walmart $45 at ASOS.
15 Best Travel Hair Dryers of 2024
Top Travel Hair Dryers for 2024. Best Hair Dryer Brush: Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0 Hair Dryer Brush. Best Budget Dryer: Conair MiniPro Hair Dryer. Best Design: Amika The CEO 360 ...
The 13 Best Travel Hair Dryers Of 2024
It's 47 percent lighter and 25 percent smaller than the full-sized GHD Air while boasting 77 percent of the power. Professional hairstylist Laurabeth Cabott loves the GHD travel dryer because it ...
Amazon.com: Mini Hair Dryer For Travel
Travel Mini Hair Dryer Ceramic Ionic 1000 Watts Blow Dryer for RV Lightweight 2 Speed Settings with a Concentrator, Black. 1 Count (Pack of 1) 1,121. 200+ bought in past month. $1798 ($17.98/Count) FREE delivery Tue, Jun 4 on $35 of items shipped by Amazon.
The 10 Best Travel Hair Dryers to Buy in 2024
Cons. Lacks retractable cord. 3. Best Premium Pick: BaBylissPRO TT Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer. View on Amazon. Why we like it: The BaByliss PRO Travel Hair Dryer uses both titanium and tourmaline, providing both ultra-low weight and ionic technology in an affordable package. Editor's Rating: Quick Facts.
5 best travel hair dryers for 2024
BaByliss Travel Hair Dryer. Now 20% Off. £20 at Amazon £25 at Beauty Bay. Score: 81/100. With the power of a full-size hair dryer in a foldable and compact body, this BaByliss model provides ...
The Ultimate Guide to Packing Hair Products for Your Travels
Pack light on styling products and embrace a more natural look. Grab a wide-tooth comb or pick for easy detangling. Or let your hair air dry on vacation and enjoy the freedom from heat damage.
8 best hair diffusers for travel of 2024, according to experts
Sephora. $ 139.00. Ulta. While this hair dryer is relatively small as it is, the handle folds down to further shrink its footprint. It has dual voltage, multiple speed and heat settings, and comes ...
'Shop It Like It's Hot': 10 on-the-go gadgets for summer travel
So Smooth Hair Dryer. $124.99. CHI. Shop Now. 29% off. Amazon. Rocketbook Core Reusable Smart Notebook. $22.69. $32. Amazon. Shop Now. Amazon. AMACOOL Neck Fan Battery Operated Neckband. ... AirTag Wallet Passport Travel Package with Cover Holder Case and Luggage Keychain Tag Accessory with Vaccine Card Protector for Men and Women (Black) $24. ...
Frankfurt in June-July: what to pack?
Sign in to get trip updates and message other travelers.. Frankfurt ; Hotels ; Things to do ; Restaurants ; Flights ; Vacation Rentals ; Travel Stories
Germany Travel for 7 days
Answer 1 of 5: Hello - We will be landing in Frankfurt for 7 days (from Jul 3 - Jul 9). We are looking for some advice on how best to use our time to visit attractions and other places (Paris?). It would be me, my wife and our 6 year old on this trip. We were...
Travel from Frankfurt to Cologne
Answer 1 of 4: Hi there, Reviewing threads and love all the help everyone is providing. I'm in a similar situation - trying to get from Frankfurt to Cologne on Oct 22 (then to Antwerp Oct 24, Rotterdam Oct 26 and then to Amsterdam on Oct 29 and fly home on...
LURA Travel Hair Dryer with Diffuser and Concentrator:Mini Blow Dryer
About this item 【Mini But powerful】Mini hair dryer has compact size (palm size) and light weight( 0.71lb)，All of which means that it takes up little space in your travel package and is great for business trips,In addition, Small hair dryer built-in DC motor and centrifugal 8 blades turbofan makes the wind pass through the conical turbocharged duct to produce strong wind.
Wiesbaden day #2, and I'm at a nude spa
Travel Blog » Europe » Germany » Hesse » Wiesbaden » Blogs » Wiesbaden day #2, and I'm at a nude spa . Wiesbaden day #2, and I'm at a nude spa - September 16, 2004 ... The soft pack was a little weird and claustrophobic, but ultimately relaxing as well. I was still ready to go when the time came though! ...
Pack the Bug Spray: Dengue Fever Spikes in Popular Travel Spots
Pack the Bug Spray: Dengue Fever Spikes in Popular Travel Spots. Written by Lisa O'Mary. 2 min read . June 26, 2024 - A potentially deadly mosquito-borne illness sometimes called "breakbone ...
The Skincare And Haircare Products A Beauty Editor Always ...
But travel exposes the skin and body to a host of stressors, from the dehydrating effects of air travel to the sudden influx of alcoholic beverages and sugary treats. ... They come in a pack of ...
What to pack if you're attending the DNC or RNC
Heading to the DNC or RNC conventions this summer? Gear up with expert tips on packing comfortable shoes, weather-ready attire and essential accessories for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
How Timeshare Presentations Earn Me Cheap Travel
The nightly room rate over my travel dates was $249, plus $34 per night in resort fees. That gives this deal a value of over $1,300 in exchange for 90-minutes of my time and the $149 I paid for ...
Save 20% on Apple's AirTag 4-Pack With This Early Prime Day Deal
Apple AirTags Are on Sale Ahead of Amazon Prime Day: Save 20% on a 4-Pack for Summer Travel. Each product has been independently selected by our editorial team. We may receive commissions from ...

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

Our Testing Process

Best Overall

Best Budget

Best for Frizz

Best Airflow

Best Foldable

Best Accessories

Best Blow Dry Brush

Other Travel Hair Dryers We Liked

Tips for Buying a Travel Hair Dryer

Make sure it works for your hair type

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Related Articles

The 8 Best Travel Hair Dryers to Pack On Your Next Trip, Tested by Byrdie

Why Trust Byrdie

Best Overall

Who It’s For

Best Budget

Best Foldable

Best Dual Voltage

Who It’s For

Best for Fast Drying

Best for Curly Hair

Best Lightweight

TYMO HighSpeed Hair Dryer

What to Look For in a Travel Hair Dryer

Related Stories

12 Best Travel Hair Dryers to Take on Your Next Vacation

Top picks for the best hair dryers in 2024

Best for Shiny Hair

Best Compact

Most Versatile

Trademark Beauty Speedy Blo Powerful and Lightweight Blow Dryer

Harry Josh Pro Tools Women’s Pro Dryer 2000

L'ange Le Styliste Luxe Digital Salon Dryer

Ghd Flight+ Travel Hair Dryer

Conair INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Travel Hair Dryer

Drybar Baby Buttercup Travel Blow-Dryer

REVLON 1875W Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer

Julien Farel Blowdryer 1875 Watt

FHI Heat Innovator The Pro Power Speed Dryer

Meet the Experts

What should you avoid in a travel hair dryer?

What is the best way to store your hair dryer when traveling?

Why trust ELLE Beauty?

Hairstyles & Haircuts 2024

Best Travel Hair Dryer Picks: 9 Actually Packable Hair Dryers

Why You Should Trust Us

How We Tested It

Author: Kristyne Defever

The 14 Best Travel Hair Dryers for a Fabulous Blowout On the Fly

What to Keep in Mind

Best Overall

Best Budget

Best with Folding Handle

Best for Long Hair

Best Dual Voltage

Best for International Travel

Best Lightweight

Most Powerful

Eva NYC Mini Dryer + Bag

Best for Damaged Hair

Best Blow Dryer Brush

Best for Frizzy Hair

Best with Diffuser

Best for Curly Hair

Are travel hair dryers different from regular hair dryers?

Can I pack a hair dryer in my carry-on?

Related Articles

7 Travel Hair Dryers That Won't Take Up Your Whole Suitcase

Dry Bar Baby Buttercup travel blow dryer

Conair travel hair dryer

Mane This Totally Blows! Ionic compact hair dryer

Gama Professional IQ3 hair dryer

T3 Afar lightweight hair dryer

Shark FlexStyle Air Drying and Styling System

Revlon compact hair dryer

13 Best Travel Hair Dryers, Tested by Hairstylists