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The 8 Best Travel-sized Hot Tools — From Curlers to Straighteners

For overnight trips and destination vacations alike, keep your hair styled and sleek with these mini hot tools.

Amy Louise Bailey is a freelance content creator and media specialist. Her work has been published in Vogue , Harper’s Bazaar , Elle , Condé Nast Traveler, Bloomberg Pursuits , and Robb Report .

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  • Our top picks
  • Tips For Buying
  • Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

TL / Amazon / Saks Fifth Avenue

Even the most beautiful hotels can have lackluster hairdryers, so if you want a salon-worthy blowout, it’s best to pack your own tools. Thanks to a wave of innovation, there are effective stylers that are compact enough to fit into your carry-on, or even your handbag if you’re upgrading to Balmain’s Cordless Straightener (which isn’t much bigger than an iPhone). There are upgraded travel-sized tools for creating bouncy, ’90s-supermodel-esque curls, ceramic irons for a glossy finish, and foldable hair dryers that speed-dry without causing damage. 

We spoke with some of New York City’s leading stylists to get their insights, and trialed some of the market's bestsellers. Our favorite is GHD’s Unplugged Styler for its versatile styling capabilities, cordless construction, and quick heat-up.

Whether you’re heading away for a weekend escape or embarking on a longer intercontinental journey, these are the best mini hot tools to elevate your hair's potential.

Best Overall

Ghd unplugged cordless flat iron.

It’s portable and heats up in 45 seconds.

It requires frequent charging.

Before GHD blasted onto the hair scene in the early 2000s, my girlfriends and I had been using actual irons on our hair. Suffice to say the condition improved greatly after we upgraded to GHD’s revolutionary ceramic tongs. Since then, GHD has released various iterations on its original model, including tools designed for travel, like this Unplugged Styler, which renowned Manhattan stylist John Barrett describes as “top of the line and easy to use.” It’s designed for 20 minutes of cordless styling and is set to an optimum temperature of 365 degrees Fahrenheit. Ryan Trygstad of Mark Ryan Salon is also a big fan. “You can flat-iron, curl, and create flat-iron waves with it,” he says.

Best Mini Flat Iron

Kristin ess nanoblack defining detailing mini flat iron.

It has universal voltage, so you can easily use it abroad.

It has a single heat setting.

Developed by a celebrity hairstylist, this mini flat iron is designed for quick yet effective styling.

“I tend to reach for this when I want to smooth a fringe, touch up edges, add texture to super short hair, or quickly retouch a hairstyle,” Kristin Ess herself explains. It quickly heats up to 380 degrees Fahrenheit and automatically shuts off after 30 minutes. Plus, it delivers negative ions to reduce frizz and enhance shine. 

Best Foldable Hairdryer

T3 afar travel size hair dryer.

Bloomingdale's

It has technology that reduces static frizz. 

It doesn’t get quite as hot as other hairdryers.

“A versatile and compact blow-dryer that I have been liking lately is the T3 Afar,” celebrity hairstylist Sally Hershberger says. T3 has become the brand du jour in the hair world, and the Afar is our favorite portable hair dryer . The design of the dryer is as appealing as its technical features; it has an ion generator that dries hair rapidly without creating any static frizz, instead smoothing the hair cuticle for a glossy finish. It has five different speed and heat combinations — ideal for those who want to minimize further damage. We also love the long cord (perfect for use when sharing a hotel room) and the lightweight design that makes it a perfect choice even for over-packers.

Best Hot Roller Set

Conair travel hairsetter with jumbo rollers.

They’re effective and affordable.

There are only five, so you’ll need to space them out sparingly.

Heatless curlers are popular for travelers, but if you just can't go without your hot tools, these hot rollers from Conair are ideal for travel. The compact kit contains five velvet-covered jumbo rollers that come with strong-hold claw clips to set them in place. They only take two minutes to heat up and they have dual voltage, so they’re suitable for use in different regions.

Best Compact Heated Brush

Moroccanoil ceramic heated brush.

It is designed to minimize damage and maximize shine.

The buttons are placed around the handle, so it can turn off while styling if you’re not careful.

Moroccanoil is a leader in nourishing hair products, and its repair-focused philosophy extends to its heated styling tools. Rendered in the brand’s signature blue, this heated brush combines the smoothing benefits of a flat iron with the convenience of a paddle brush. It has beveled edges to smooth right up to the root and it has ceramic cool tip bristles to minimize excess thermal exposure. Another plus? It heats up in less than 60 seconds and allows you to easily style your hair in around three minutes.

Best Splurge

Balmain hair couture cordless straightener.

Saks Fifth Avenue

It’s cordless and is compact enough to pack in a handbag if you’re going out after work (or for a pre-landing touch up).

It has a designer price tag.

Ultra-luxe beauty is having a moment and Balmain is the first major fashion brand to venture into the hair industry. Inspired by backstage secrets from the world’s best stylists, this cordless straightener was made for quick and effortless touch ups on the move, so it’s a jetsetter’s dream. As you would expect with a luxury product, it has superior features with three preset settings (ranging from 320 to 392 degrees Fahrenheit) and advanced titanium floating plate technology that provides a silky finish.

CHI Tourmaline Ceramic 3-piece Travel Set

These lightweight styling tools are just as powerful as full-sized alternatives and already come in a thermal case.

Both the flat iron and curling iron only have one heat setting available.

These CHI tools may look small but they’re as powerful as the full-sized versions, and feature the brand’s ceramic technology for even heat styling. Both the curling and flat irons have tourmaline plates which release negative ions to fight humidity. The hair dryer emits infrared heat, which locks in moisture and seals the cuticles for less frizz. All three tools are double voltage and already come in a thermal travel bag, making the packable set a good option for your next trip.

Best Curling Iron

Conair infinitipro curl secret auto curler.

It leaves you with beautiful curls without tiring out your arms.

Users with longer hair may experience tangling as they get used to using this curler.

For an easy-to-use and lightweight curling iron that even the newest hair stylists can use, consider the Conair InfinitiPro Curl Secret Auto Curler. Simply slide your hair into the slot and push start and your hair will wrap around the barrel of the iron without you having to hold the ends to ensure it's properly styled. This device even beeps when your hair has been sufficiently styled for optimal, long-lasting curls. With three curl types, three curl directions, and five heat settings to choose from, every user can find the perfect style for their hair type.

Tips for Buying Hair Tools for Travel

Prioritize portability.

Look for tools that are compact and lightweight. All of the above comfortably fit into a carry-on suitcase with enough room for outfits and TSA-friendly beauty products . If you need something super portable for a multi-event day, go for a cordless option so you can take it in your handbag.

Understand voltage

As anyone who has blown a hotel fuse knows, not all hair dryers and styling tools are designed for travel. Hotels, especially those outside of the United States, don't always support the same amount of voltage as your home. While the standard voltage in the U.S. is 120, many other counties use 220/240 volts, so if you're traveling with a high-powered hair tool, you should always pack a power converter . You should also be sure to carefully read your device's packaging and instructions before traveling with (and using) even a mini hot tool.

Consider your desired style

Think about how you want to style your hair: Are there any particular outfits that you want to complement? Perhaps flowy waves with a floral dress? Sleek straight hair paired with an edgy LBD and heeled mules? Let that determine whether you invest in a classic ceramic flat-iron or a curling tool to add volume. 

“Always use a great conditioner to maintain the hair's moisture levels and a great heat protectant is also key when using irons or blow dryers,” Trygstad explains. Dr. Barbara Sturm , Oribe , R+Co , and Kerastase each have excellent nourishing masks that leave hair silky smooth and primed for styling. Kevin Murphy’s blow dry collection is also top of the line, and if your hair needs an extra boost, do a K18 or Olaplex treatment to rebuild the bonds.

Yes, if you buy quality brands the reduced size shouldn’t matter. The optimal temperature range is 380 degrees Fahrenheit – look for a heat range in that zip code.

According to TSA , there are no restrictions on packing hot hair tools in carry-on or checked luggage (just ensure that it’s switched off, and ideally, keep it in a case). But do note any exceptions for cordless devices with lithium-ion batteries inside.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, T+L contributor Amy Louise Bailey used research and her own personal experience as a fashion, beauty, and lifestyle writer to roundup the very best mini hot tools for travel.

She also spoke to well-known hairstylists, including:

  • John Barrett , a renowned Manhattan-based hairstylist
  • Kristin Ess , celebrity hairstylist and co-founder of Kristen Ess Hair
  • Sally Hershberger , celebrity hairstylist and founder of Sally Hershberger Salon
  • Ryan Trygstad , celebrity hairstylist of Mark Ryan Salon in Manhattan

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travel hair styling tools

9 Best Travel-Size Hair Tools for Flawless Looks on the Go

By Leah Prinzivalli and Jennifer Hussein

9 Best TravelSize Hair Tools in 2023 to Pack for Your Next Getaway

We love our tried-and-true hot tools , but some of our clunkier devices are far from travel-friendly . That's where the best travel-size hair tools come in to save our vacation looks. Whether you're traveling to a frizz-inducing tropical climate or attending a destination wedding, hair is most likely the biggest part of your beauty routine that needs serious adaptation on the road — and, of course, wanderlusters forget about far too often.

Doing your hair on vacation doesn't have to be complicated. Of course, you can always rock the natural look flawlessly, but if you'd rather blowout, curl, or straighten your strands during your vacay, we've compiled a list of the mini hair styling tools that'll perform just as well as your full-size favorites, even when you're miles (and maybe even an ocean or two) away from home. These tools won't take up too much room whether you're checking a bag or simply traveling with a carry-on and will ensure you have a vacation entirely filled with effortlessly gorgeous styles.

Jet-setting soon? Don't forget to pack one of these TSA-friendly travel stylers. Below, check out the best compact hairstyling tools Allure editors and pro hairstylists alike adore — just make sure to pack a bottle of heat protectant , too.

Our Top Picks:

  • Best Overall: T3 Afar Travel Hair Dryer , $180
  • Best Hair Dryer: Drybar Baby Buttercup Mini Blow Dryer , $139
  • Best Flatiron: Kristin Ess Defining and Detailing Mini Flat Iron , $60
  • Best for Curly Hair: Ceremonia Diffuser de Rizos , $20

All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The light pink T3 Afar Travel Hair Dryer on a white background

T3 Afar Travel Hair Dryer

Ulta Beauty

The T3 Afar Travel Hair Dryer looks like the Rolls Royce of compact hair dryers, but this nifty little blowdryer offers more than just shelfie-worthy looks. It's one of the most pro-recommended products on this list for its luxurious design that offers multiple heat and speed settings. "The T3 Afar is by far my favorite dryer for travels," says New York City-based hairstylist and colorist Paul Labrecque .

The light blue BaBylissPro Mini Straightening Iron hair straightener on a white background

BabylissPRO

BaBylissPro Mini Straightening Iron

If you're all about pin-straight styles, Brandie Devillier , a Texas-based hairstylist, says you need to add the BaBylissPro Mini Straightening Iron to your vacation hair-care routine. "This flatiron travels with me everywhere I go," she says.

This miniature flatiron features half-inch titanium plates that glide through a wide range of hair types with ease. This dual-voltage device's plates heat up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and feature a beveled-edge design for versatile styling. It also comes with a heat-resistant carrying pouch to prevent any items in your carry-on from being seared.

The black Kitsch Ceramic Rollers on a white background

Kitsch Ceramic Rollers

Instead of packing a large curling wand, Devillier suggests opting for a travel-friendly eight-pack of Kitsch's Ceramic Rollers. "When I want big, fluffy hair but don't have time for a curling iron, I'll blow out my hair and pop these ceramic rollers right in," she says, adding that they work best on hot hair. "As they cool down, your hair will cool and form into the shape of the roller."

The black GHD Flight Travel blow dryer on a white background

GHD Flight Travel Dryer

Saks Fifth Avenue

Devillier is also a major fan of the GHD Flight Travel Dryer for its compact size that fits into any of her carry-ons and mighty hair-drying power. "It's also lightweight and has the amazing GHD technology of cooling down when too close to the hair," she says.

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The blue Ceremonia Diffuser de Rizos hair dryer diffuser attachment on a white background

Ceremonia Diffuser de Rizos

No matter which blow dryer you decide to pack (or even if you use the hotel's option), Allure deputy digital editor Kara McGrath says the Ceremonia Diffuser de Rizos will be a perfect fit. She says curly hair types should pack this diffuser in their go-bags for its universal fit and collapsible design. It literally blew our editors away, much so that it nabbed an Allure Best of Beauty Award in 2022.

The yellow Drybar Baby Buttercup Blow Dryer on a white background

Drybar Baby Buttercup Mini Blow Dryer

Sometimes, life takes us to a place that doesn't have a Drybar. Thankfully, the blowout pros have an at-home line to help us fake it. The Drybar Baby Buttercup Mini Blow Dryer folds up into its own travel bag and is designed with international voltage compatibility.

The light blue Conair Flirty Flat Iron on a white background

Conair Flirty Flat Iron

The mini Conair Flirty Flat Iron is so purse-friendly that you can easily pack it in a tote bag or backpack. Since this little gadget features ceramic plates that heat up to 356 degrees Fahrenheit, the phrase "tiny but mighty" truly applies to this hair straightener.

The white Kristin Ess Defining  Detailing Titanium Mini Flat Iron on a white background

Kristin Ess

Kristin Ess Defining and Detailing Mini Flat Iron

Honey, Kristin Ess shrunk the flat iron. This mini version of the Defining and Detailing Mini Flat Iron is great for smoothing short hair, bangs, detailing, and, of course, last-minute travel styling. The tool has a single heat setting of 380 degrees Fahrenheit, features titanium, corrosion-resistant plating, and can even be used internationally.

The blue and white 55 millimeterbarrel Moroccanoil Ionic Ceramic Thermal Brush on a white background

Moroccanoil

Moroccanoil Ionic Ceramic Thermal Brush (55mm)

Bluemercury

Now that you've packed your teeny curling iron, foldable blow dryer, and curling iron, you need a hair brush that can withstand heat. The Moroccanoil Ionic Ceramic Thermal Brush features a 55-millimeter barrel that's designed with ceramic technology to distribute heat evenly and smooth frizz and flyaways.

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  • Hair Products And Tools

13 Stylist-Approved Hairstyling Tools For Salon-Level Results

With top picks from Harry Josh, ghd, and Revlon

travel hair styling tools

Byrdie / Kevin Liang

From pin-straight locks to beach waves or voluminous curls, there's a hair tool to help you achieve every style . Finding out what looks you love to wear the most will influence the hair tools you buy, whether that's a curling iron , blow dryer, flat iron, or beyond. "When you're unable to go to the salon, I highly recommend investing in your products," celebrity hairstylist, Zahir Ziani tells Byrdie. In other words, quality materials can go a long way in protecting the integrity of your hair .

"If possible, give yourself time when doing your hair," notes Ziani. " I recommend towel drying as much as possible and then spraying with your preferred heat protection or styling product before moving on to blow drying."

We conducted hours of research on the best hair styling tools, evaluating them on material, durability, and results . We also tried out some of the top-rated tools at home over several weeks. After considering dozens of options and consulting two celebrity hairstylists, we landed on these stand-out picks.

Where We Stand

  • What To Look For

Why Trust Byrdie

Best flat iron, revlon salon straight 1" flat iron.

Distributes heat evenly

Heats up quickly

Smoothes frizz

Plates may be too wide for shorter hair

This professional copper and ceramic flat iron from Revlon is the perfect tool to smooth out strands and help straighten naturally curly hair . When choosing a flat iron, you want to make sure it has a heat setting that's high enough for your hair type (the curlier and coarser the hair, the more heat needed). This one heats up to 455 degrees , which should straighten even the tightest, thickest curls . 

Unfortunately using high heat often leads to damage , but the copper ceramic technology in this flat iron helps reduce breakage while leaving behind a luminous shine (still, don’t skip a good heat protectant spray ). We also like that it remembers the temperature setting you use the most and heats the plates to that level in just 10 seconds . 

Who It’s For

This is a quintessential pick for anyone who wants to smooth out their wavy or curly hair. Although the plates aren’t exactly chunky, t hose with shorter hairstyles might want to look for a more slimline flat iron that lets them get closer to the root. 

Material: Copper | Max Temp: 455°F | Hair Type: All

Best Blow Dryer

Harry josh pro tools ultra light pro dryer.

Lightweight and travel-friendly

Cuts down dry time

Reviewers note that it can be fragile

A lightweight, ultra-quiet hair dryer that significantly r educes drying time ? Yes, please. "A good blow dryer goes a long way,” says Zahir Ziani. “This is really where it starts and is the foundation for any hot tool.” 

The Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultra Light Pro Dryer has 12 heat, speed, and ion settings all designed to help reduce drying time. Speaking of ion settings, the product's ion technology (it releases negatively charged ions to combat the positively charged ions that creatic static and flyaways) gives you a smoother finish , too. 

We love that this blowdryer weighs less than a pound and is compact enough to fit in your luggage when traveling. However, some reviewers say the lightweight materials break easily if you accidentally drop the tool.  

If you’re in the market for a reliable blow dryer that will make your day-to-day styling quicker and easier, and is travel-friendly, this one is worth the investment. 

Material: Ceramic, stainless steel | Max Temp: 101ºF | Hair Type: All

Best Curling Wand

Conair infiniti pro curling wand.

5 heat settings

Can do loose and tight curls

Controls frizz

May be difficult to use for longer hair

Manually wrapping your hair around a curling wand gives you control over the tightness of the curl, as opposed to the uniform results obtained using a curling iron with a clamp mechanism. 

Hairstylist Ryan Trygstad considers this budget-friendly tourmaline wand the easiest tool for creating at-home beach waves . Its smooth barrel allows you to easily wrap strands of hair tightly or more loosely to achieve your desired look . Plus, its tourmaline ceramic technology (which produces negative ions) allows the hair to be styled without much damage, ensuring the integrity of the hair stays intact.

For the best results, blow dry first, then follow with the curling wand. Brush through the curls after you're done for a natural finish. 

If you dream of undone waves or natural-looking curls, this is the tool for you. The slim-line barrel works best on short and mid-length styles , so long-haired folks might need a wider wand. 

Material: Tourmaline ceramic | Max Temp: 400ºF | Hair Type: All

Best Curling Iron

Beachwaver co. beachwaver pro 1.

Easy to use

Long-lasting results

Fine hair types might need hair spray for the curls to last

This patented rotating curling iron is the perfect solution for anyone wanting gorgeous beach waves with a little assistance. “I love that this product rotates on its own,” says Trygstad. “Plus, it has both a left and a right setting which makes it easier to use and switch between sides.” Game. Changer.

Section the hair and place it in the clamp, press the rotating button, and watch while the curling iron practically does the work for you . The customized clamp ensures there are no kinks in the hair , and the ergonomic handle makes it easy to use. Left the house without turning it off? Its safety feature allows the iron to automatically shut off within 30 minutes of no use . Whew.

This rotating curling iron makes soft waves easy for anyone to achieve without the help of a stylist. Those with finer hair should use hairspray to set their look, as the results don’t hold as well on fine strands . 

Material: Ceramic | Max Temp: 410ºF | Hair Type: All

Byrdie / Nick Kova

Best Diffuser

Devacurl devafuser.

Gives definition and volume

Reduces frizz

Attaches to blow dryer

Reviewers note that it doesn't fit every hair dryer

If you have curls, then you know a diffuser can help add volume and definition . This unique, hand-shaped attachment from DevaCurl is a fan-favorite , providing 360-degree airflow to surround curls and cut down on drying time. Meanwhile, its ceramic inner core fights frizz and enhances shine . The result? Bouncy, voluminous waves, and coils . We noticed it took longer to dry our hair than a blow dryer would, but it left curls static-free.

The diffuser is intended to be universal, meaning it fits on the end of all blow dryers. However, some reviewers complain that isn’t the case, so check with the manufacturer before ordering. 

Curly-haired folks looking to add some oomph to their locks will love the volume this diffuser creates (as long as they have a little extra time for it to work its magic). 

Material: Ceramic | Max Temp: N/A | Hair Type: Curly

Byrdie / Bianca Lambert

Byrdie / Joy Kim

Best Hot Air Brush

Amika blowout babe thermal ionic hairbrush.

Lightweight

Uses far-infrared heat to reduce drying time

Ion technology reduces static

Not ideal for thick hair

This barrel brush and blowdryer in one makes it super easy to achieve pro-level results at home . It uses far-infrared heat to penetrate the hair cuticle , heating from the inside out and cutting down styling time—and therefore risk of heat damage . Plus, the ionic generator helps leave you with smooth, shiny, static-free results . 

This tool is great for giving you bouncy blowout results without the need for a separate blow dryer and brush. It works best on fine or medium hair ; some reviewers with thicker strands felt the bristles didn’t grip their hair well enough.

Material: Ceramic, nylon | Max Temp: 356ºF | Hair Type: All

Byrdie / Conor Ralph

Best Straightening Brush

Drybar heated straightening brush.

Works quickly

Smooth and static-free results

Reviewers note that it takes multiple passes to get straight for thicker hair types

Combining the structure of a paddle brush with the heat of a blow dryer, this nifty tool creates shiny, silky straight hair in a flash . We love that it uses ionic technology to help seal the cuticle and keep static at bay while its digital temperature control function allows for custom styling on all hair types —from straight to tightly curled—thus, reducing the risk of heat damage. Plus, it features an automatic shut-off after 60 minutes , so you’ll never have to stress after rushing out the door in a hurry. 

If you like to wear your hair sleek and smooth , this heated straightening brush will do the trick quickly and effectively. However, reviewers with thick hair noted it took longer for them to get a good result. 

Material: Ceramic, nylon | Max Temp: 450°F | Hair Type: All

Best Round Brush

Ghd ceramic vented round brush.

Can use with larger sections of hair

Speeds up drying time

Reviewers note that the bristles can be scratchy

This blow-drying brush is great for longer hair, allowing for a smoother finish and faster drying time. Since it has a ceramic barrel, it retains heat allowing hair to dry in double the time it would if just using a regular round brush. Section your hair and work the brush through each part, going over the hair with the brush and blowdryer until it's smooth and styled the way you want it to be. If you want to create a more wavy look, dry your hair, wrap sections of hair around the brush, blast it with heat for 30 seconds, then with cool air for another 30 seconds before unwrapping it for a sophisticated wavy look.

Material: Ceramic | Max Temp: N/A | Hair Type: All

Best Paddle Brush

Aveda wooden paddle brush.

Detangles easily

Great for thick hair types

Sustainable wooden design

Bristles can fall out over time

Paddle brushes not only work wonders on detangling the hair, but they also help smooth out strands while blow-drying to create sleek, straight styles. This lightweight brush from Aveda is super gentle , featuring extended bristles which, as Trygstad points out, are extra helpful for hair that’s prone to knots . “This is an essential brush in my kit,” he says. “It works beautifully to detangle and can handle a lot of hair at once .”

We love that it’s sustainably designed with a wood handle rather than plastic and has a built-in ventilation and drainage system to prevent nasty buildup . The only downside is that the bristles tend to fall out over time. 

This paddle brush is perfect for smoothing and detangling thick hair to create a sleek blowout . 

Material: Wood | Max Temp: N/A | Hair Type: All

Best Wide-Tooth Comb

Vernon françois wide-tooth comb.

Vernon François

Detangles curly hair without pain

Ergonomically designed

Suitable for all hair types

On the small side

Wide-tooth combs are great for detangling the hair without damaging it , especially when you have curls. This sleek option from Vernon François is ergonomically designed for a comfortable grip so you can have full control while combing out even the toughest of snarls. It can be used on both wet and dry locks , and is suitable for all hair types, regardless of texture, length, density, and strand width. 

“This comb is great for use in the shower— I love it for combing through masks or conditioners ,” says Trygstad. “It’s also great to use before showering to loosen tangles in longer hair. ”

Although this comb is suitable for all hair types, we recommend it as a detangler for longer, curly hair . 

Material: Plastic | Max Temp: N/A | Hair Type: Curly, all

Best Edge Brush

The doux babygirl edge brush.

Can create shapes

Double-sided comb and brush head

Bend-resistant

Not many reviews

When you’re looking to slick and smooth out your edges (AKA baby hairs ), this nifty edge brush from The Doux is a solid option. It features a double-sided head that can be used for combing and brushing while its extra-long precision tip allows better control when parting, swirling, and detailing your edges. Plus, both the base and bristles are super durable , preventing the brush from bending or breaking while styling. 

“This is great for smoothing the baby hairs around the hairline ,” says Trygstad. “I also love this style of brush for detailing a ponytail. Plus, it’s great for coaxing brows into place.”

If your baby hairs (or brows) need extra love, this edge brush will help you shape and style them with ease. 

Material: Nylon, resin | Max Temp: N/A | Hair Type: Curly, coily, wavy

Best Hair Towel

Aquis wrap hair drying towel.

Lightweight and soft

Reduces drying time

Some reviewers disliked the feel of the fabric

The Aquis hair wrap is essentially a towel that’s been specifically engineered for drying hair. Its absorbent woven fibers wick moisture away from the hair fast, and its lightweight design doesn't pull on the hair and cause unnecessary breakage like heavy bath towels can. It even helps impart shine while reducing static . We loved that it dried our hair in record time, and it didn’t weigh us down like a regular terry cloth towel. 

If you prefer to avoid blow-drying your hair but find air drying too unpredictable and time-consuming, this absorbent wrap is perfect for you. 

Material: Polyester, nylon | Max Temp: N/A | Hair type: All

Best Silk Turban

Grace eleyae silk twist turban.

Grace Eleyae

Soft, luxurious feel

Protects hair from damage and friction

Distributes hair’s natural oils for hydration

Reviewers note that the color looks slightly different online than in person

If you’ve ever suffered from bedhead, you know that sleep can sometimes wreak havoc on hair. That’s why many of us turn to sleeping on silk pillowcases or wrapping our hair in silk turbans and bonnets; it helps protect our locks while we catch up on beauty sleep . 

This double-lined silk turban from Grace Eleyae works hard to prevent frizz and breakage from friction , lock in moisture, and distribute your hair’s natural oils . We appreciate the twist front, which kept the turban in place all night long.

If your hair is prone to static and tangles, this silk bonnet will protect it and even help it stay healthy and moisturized. 

Material: Silk | Max Temp: N/A | Hair Type: All

Overall, our top pick is the Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultra Light Pro Dryer ; it’s lightweight and significantly reduces drying time. We also love the affordable Conair Infiniti PRO Curling Wand which allows you to create perfect curls in a flash.

What to Look For in Styling Tools

  • Quality Materials : Not only will choosing a hairstyling tool made with high-quality materials make it more likely to last for years, but it may also help keep your hair in good condition. For example, this ghd vented round brush is made with heat-retaining ceramic, allowing hair to dry in half the time it would if just using a regular round brush. That means less time under the blow dryer and less risk of heat damage. 
  • Technology : The tech behind hair styling tools has come a long way in recent years. Look for products with built-in benefits for your hair such as ion technology, which helps cut dry time down. Tools like the Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultra Light Pro Dryer emit negative ions to combat the positive ions which cause static and pesky flyaways.  
  • A Match For Your Hair Type : There's no disappointment quite like spending time using a hair tool just to discover the results you get are nothing like the images you've seen. It's worth spending time getting to know your hair's type and texture, especially if you have curly hair. 
  • Settings : Choosing styling tools that have a few different settings will help you get the look you want. But knowing what settings are right for your hair is important, too. For example, the right heat setting could be make or break for your hair (and we do mean that literally). The Drybar The Brush Crush Heated Straightening Brush comes with multiple heat settings, so you can get the right temperature for your hair type (less heat for fine hair, more heat for thick). 

Both titanium and ceramic are good choices for hair tools, and both have pros and cons. Ziani, however has a preference for titanium.

While the safest bet for damaged hair is to reduce heat styling as much as possible, we know that sometimes, it's going to happen regardless. "The best tool for damaged hair is no hot tool. In that case, it is best to invest in a deep conditioning mask and give your hair a rest from the heat before using hot tools again." If you must use a hot tool, be sure, he says to invest in a heat protectant . And investigate devices that are a little more sensitive to your hair, such as GHD's Platinum + Styler flat iron.

The above picks are our choices for the basics, that we think people with all different types of hair will benefit from owning. If you're unsure where to start, try getting the right brush or comb for your hair type, along with a turban that will minimize dry time—that's an excellent place to start, and later you can pop back in to look at heating tools.

Additional guidance was provided by Ryan Trygstad , hair stylist and co-founder of Mark Ryan Salon in NYC, and celebrity hairstylist, Zahir Ziani .

Byrdie contributor Esme Benjamin checked and updated this article in November 2023 to ensure every detail was correct and that each product deserves its place on Byrdie’s list of the hairstyling tools of 2024. 

According to our  Diversity Pledge , 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough hair styling tools from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business to meet this percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at  [email protected]  and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

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Travel Fashion Girl

What’s the Best Travel Curling Iron? See Our Top 5 Picks

Hair , TOILETRIES

best-travel-curling-iron

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For those of us with high-maintenance hair, traveling without the right tools is not an option. These are the best travel curling iron options for domestic and international trips to keep your luggage to a minimum!

Best Travel Curling Iron

Table of contents.

One of the biggest secrets to chic style is great hair and makeup — without these, it doesn’t matter how perfect your capsule wardrobe looks. Well-styled hair and makeup can create a polished look, even if you’re decked out in a pair of sneakers with jeans and a T-shirt.

Unfortunately, not all of us travelers are blessed with easy-to-maintain, smooth, glossy locks. So, we feel it’s worth it to sacrifice some suitcase space to make sure we have the best hair tools, like our favorite travel curling iron.

If a curling iron is on your must-have travel list, we’ve rounded up a few of the best travel curling iron options on the market. They are a collection of the most versatile and compaction travel curlers for your next trip!

Best Travel Curling Iron Reviews

best-travel-curling-iron

L’ANGE HAIR Le Duo 360° Airflow Styler

2-in-1 Travel Curling Iron

If you need to curl and straighten your hair while traveling, then a 2-in-1 travel hair curler is a great option. You have access to both tools without sacrificing the extra space.

This travel sized curling iron by L’ANGE doubles as a flat iron, to give you a variety in your hair without having to worry about carrying multiple items. Plus, it’s a dual voltage curling iron, which means you can cart it around to any country in the world and not have to worry about blowing a fuse.

I’ve always traveled with both a curling and flat iron (unless I’ve had my hair permanently straightened recently) so when I found this 2-in-1 travel hair curler, it was the perfect solution.

 You can choose your preferred heat with the adjustable temperature setting of 280°F-430°F. My hair is fine and wavy, but the roots carry some extra curl, so when I brought this on a four-week trip, it took a few extra glides.

All things considered, I have to say this 2-in-1 curling and straightening tool is one of the best travel curling iron tools out there. It works perfectly for the occasional curl and daily smoothing.

Looking for a dual voltage flat iron ? See our list of the best ones!

best-travel-curling-iron

VAV 2in1 Mini Travel Hair Curling Iron

Mini Curling Iron with Two Heat Settings

If you prefer that your hair styling regime mimics a salon-style treatment, then the 1-inch VAV 2in1 Mini Hair Curling Iron is the ideal choice. This mini curling wand is your standard ceramic-coated curling iron but with a compact design for easy storage during your travels.

It’s an easy-to-carry mini curling iron that heats up quickly and creates smooth, shiny curls in seconds. It only takes 30 seconds to reach the hottest setting!

Not only does this travel hair curler heat up quickly, but you have control over the temperature with two heat settings — just flip the switch from high to low. For those of us with thin and damage prone hair, the low setting is built to be gentle enough to protect your hair while leaving you with amazing curls.

Learn how to make your blowout last for days !

best-travel-curling-iron

Conair Mini Pro 1″ Ceramic

A Travel Size Curling Iron that’s Budget-Friendly

If you need a budget-friendly travel size curling iron, then the ultra-tiny Conair Mini Pro iron is a great choice. It is compact and can easily fit in any bag or purse without you needing to sacrifice the space for other necessities.

This travel size curler heats up quickly and gets to a high enough temperature for you to curl thick hair. That said, because of its smaller size, it might not be the best travel curling iron for travelers with extra long hair.

Need to dry your hair fast on the go? See our tips!

best-travel-curling-iron

AmoVee 2 in 1 Mini Flat Iron Curling Iron

Mini Travel Curling Wand to Save Space

If you have limited space but want to bring a travel hair curler along with you on your next trip, then a mini curling wand might be the solution for you

A great option for a mini curler is the titanium AmoVee 2in1  styler, which creates curls or waves in your locks while adding shine and luster to your hair. Additionally, you can straighten with this small-size tool, too!

It is an easy to use travel curling wand that helps create fast hairstyles in a single stroke. Plus, the titanium barrel distributes heat evenly to eliminate kinks whether you’re curling or straightening. It also heats up fast.

I describe myself as ultra lazy when it comes to hairstyling, but when I started using this travel curling iron , I became obsessed with how easy it was to use! Now I rarely travel without it, especially since it’s dual-voltage.

We round up the best hair diffusers for travel!

best-travel-curling-iron

Conair ThermaCell Compact Curling Iron

Cordless Curling Iron for on the Go

When you travel with electronic devices or hair styling tools, you have to think about plugs, adapters, and voltage. Especially if you’re traveling to somewhere like Europe, where the plugs don’t match. Unless you travel with a cordless curling iron.

I had always wanted cordless hair tools for road trips or places where access to power outlets aren’t easy to come by. Measuring a mere 6.4 inches, the ThermaCell by Conair is the ultimate cordless curler to carry throughout your travels!

Our favorite feature of this cordless curling tool is obviously the fact that there are no plugs or batteries to fuss with. And the ThermaCell cartridges last several months, so you can style your hair anytime, anywhere without worrying about running out of juice.

The ThermaCell also saves you time by heating up in as little as 30 seconds, giving you plenty of time to hit the city and enjoy your vacation. This portable curling wand is a great addition to your packing list, and due to the lack of cord, you don’t even have to worry about the voltage. Roadtrip, here we come!

Check out our ultimate guide to hair while traveling!

Best Travel Curling Iron Comparison Chart

Here’s a quick review of the best travel curling irons.

best-travel-curling-iron

Universal Travel Plug Charger

The Importance of Dual Voltage Curling Irons

Before you head off to purchase you’re favorite of the best travel curling iron options, we need to have a chat about the importance of a dual voltage curling iron. Voltage refers simply to electricity, and different countries you might travel to have different types of electricity. For example, here in the US, we use 110-120V, but in Europe, they use 220-240V.

There’s a good chance that your electronics are built for the same voltage as the country in which you bought them. That means that if you take your non-dual voltage hair curler with you while you’re visiting another country, it might not work. In fact, you could even blow a fuse or destroy your travel hair tool if you try to use it. Not cool!

If you want a full run-down on voltage by country, you can check out this World Standards page .

Learn about voltage converters vs. adapters !

To use your favorite travel curling iron in another country, you’re going to need two things:

  • The correct voltage
  • A travel adapter

Your hair styling tools, including blow dryers, curling wands and irons, and hair straighteners use a ton of electricity. That means it’s important they they are used with the correct voltage.

Some hair tools are labeled “dual-voltage,” which means they’ve been designed to be used in multiple countries. If you’re traveling outside of the US (or a country that uses the same voltage) you’re going to want to bring your dual voltage curler with you.

Once you have your hands on a dual voltage curling iron, you’re also going to need a travel adapter. A travel adapter enables you to plug your electronics into international outlets while you travel. Since not every country uses the same type of plug, we highly recommend you buy an international adapter .

Visit this power outlet guide for travelers to see a full list of plugs and outlets by country!

The Best Travel Curling Iron for the US

If you’re both from the US and traveling within the US, you won’t need to get a dual voltage curling iron. But you might want to save some space by choosing to travel with a mini curling iron.

If you are traveling to the US from a country outside of the US, you’ll need to travel with a dual voltage curler (you can still save space by getting yourself a mini iron). Make sure that you switch the voltage to 110V/120V before using your travel hair curler once you’ve arrived in the US.

The Best Travel Curling Iron for Europe

Is your travel curling iron dual voltage? If so, then that is the one you’ll want to use if you’re traveling from the US to Europe, Asia, Africa, or the South Pacific.

If the one you have at home is not a dual voltage curling iron, you’ll want to look into purchasing a new one for your travels (but avoid the 1-inch Mini Hair Curling Iron because it doesn’t have that feature).

Note that if you purchase a travel curling iron for Europe while you’re there, it likely will be a curling iron with a European plug. If you’re from the US, a European curling iron won’t help much when you get home!

A dual voltage curling iron is not automatically set for travel, so make sure to switch your hair tools to 220V/240V before you use them at your destination!

So, are you ready to spend your vacation with beautiful curls without the fuss? The best travel curling iron can easily take your hair from flat to va-va-voom in a matter of minutes!

What are your picks for the best travel curling iron? Share in the comments!

For more tips on travel hairstyles, please read:

  • What’s the Best Travel Hair Dryer?
  • Should I Pack a Travel Blow Dryer?
  • What’s the Best Travel Hair Straightener?
  • Best Hair Products for Travelers

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

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We hope you enjoyed this post on the best travel curling iron. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Lori Parsons

I would like to purchase a 220v -2 prong curling iron. Not a dual voltage. They are not consistent in overheating even with all the adapters and “dual capability.”

I simply want to purchase a European 2-prong curling iron. Could someone post that as a purchase option please?

1”-1 1/2” barrel

Alex

Hi Lori, to get the most help in your search, of you haven’t already done so, I would highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post your question there – it’s a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their travel advice and recommendations!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirl

jkstahl

I bought two of the 6th Sense Styling Technology. One for travel/gym bag and one for home. I love it so much!

Thanks for sharing your love of your curling iron with us Jillian! Always love hearing the feedback of our readers!

Sandra Manners

I always travel with a normal size curling iron but find it is a little too long to fit comfortably in my personal item. I purchased the Conair Mini Pro Ceramic but found it was too hard to use on my shoulder-length hair. I kept burning my fingers! I think it would work well for someone with short hair, however. I returned it and bought the AmoVee 2-in-1 curling iron. This one is a keeper. Much easier to use and I like the padded sleeve that comes with it. It is dual voltage too! In the meantime, I stumbled across an old Charlescraft Quartette curling iron in a second-hand store for $10. The handle and the four curling iron barrels are separate and snap together. Smart design! It is not dual voltage but I can use it for domestic travel. I notice a similar one (Triplette instead of Quartette) is for sale on Poshmark.

Katherine

The best thing I’ve used is my Karmin curling iron, I love it.❤❤❤

Hi Katherine, thank you for sharing how you like to style your hair when traveling with us! ?

Heidi.

I prefer Karmin.

Hi Heidi, thank you for sharing your recommendation with us! 🙂

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travel hair styling tools

  • Best overall
  • Best for international travel
  • Most versatile
  • Best for curly hair
  • Best foldable
  • Most compact
  • Fastest drying
  • Best for damaged hair
  • Best budget

What to look for in a travel hair dryer

What voltage is ideal, 9 travel hair dryers that are compact, lightweight, and won't blow out your hotel's electricity.

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Whether you're packing for a weekend getaway or a weeks-long trip, traveling to any destination via airplane means very minimal luggage space for full-size hair products. If you invest in a travel-size hair dryer, however, you can stuff your bag with clothes, shoes, and other essentials, and your strands won't have to suffer as a result.

Travel hair dryers often get a bad rap because people confuse the tools with the kind of low-quality complimentary blowdryers stashed under hotel bathroom sinks. But the two are not the same. On the contrary, many renowned hair tool brands sell travel-sized versions of their best hair dryers that are designed with features like manual heat and speed settings and interchangeable attachments to ensure styling on the go is just as satisfactory. If you're a carry-on person and need your hair dryer to be as small as possible, we highly recommend the Conair 1875W Compact Travel Hair Dryer , which folds and is only $16.

Still, the market is saturated with travel-friendly alternatives in all categories, so it can be hard to decipher the fantastic from the flops. To save you the hassle of trial and error (and wasted cash), we've rounded up some of the best travel hair dryers of 2023 below.

Our top picks for the best travel hair dryers:

Best overall: Conair 1875W Compact Travel Hair Dryer - See at Amazon

Best for international travel: Conair Worldwide Travel Dryer - See at Amazon

Most versatile: Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultra Light Pro Dryer - See at Dermstore

Best for curly hair: Shark HyperAir HD113BRN - See at Amazon

Best foldable: Drybar Baby Buttercup Blow-Dryer - See at Amazon

Most compact: LURA Mini Portable Travel Hair Dryer - See at Amazon

Fastest drying: T3 Afar - See at Amazon

Best for damaged hair: Panasonic Nanoe Compact Hair Dryer - See at Amazon

Best budget: Revlon Compact Hair Dryer - See at Amazon

Best overall: Conair 1875W Compact Travel Hair Dryer

travel hair styling tools

Pros: Budget-friendly, dual voltage, folding handle, two-speed settings, two heat settings, cool shot button, 1875 watts

Cons: Does not come with any accessories

The Conair 1875 Compact Hair Dryer checks all the boxes for those traveling nationally or overseas. The styler is designed with a foldable handle and weighs roughly a pound, so it's suitcase-friendly. Its dual voltage makes it ideal for worldwide jet setters and offers 1875 watts of electrical power, ensuring a faster drying experience when you're on the go. The device also features two heat and speed settings, plus a cool shot button for easy styling no matter your hair type, and is budget-friendly as it retails for under $20. 

Best for international travel: Conair Worldwide Travel Dryer

travel hair styling tools

Pros: Smart voltage technology, folding handle, three heat/two custom speed settings, cool shock button, ionic output, concentrated nozzle, 

Cons: An adapter still necessary for international travel

Frequent travelers, look no further than the Conair Worldwide Travel Dryer. This savvy styler is downright genius as it's designed with smart voltage technology that detects foreign voltages and adjusts accordingly, making it the ultimate travel companion for anyone traveling all over the place. And while you can guarantee that it won't blow out the lights in your hotel, you will still need an adapter to plug it in.

This hair dryer is also an excellent model for travelers with specific style preferences, as it features three heat and two speed settings, plus a cool shot button, and an ionic output to reduce frizz and naturally enhance the shine of your strands. What's more, though the device doesn't come with multiple accessories, it does include a concentrated nozzle for focused airflow.

Most versatile: Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultra Light Pro Dryer

travel hair styling tools

Pros: 12 heat and speed settings, suitable for all hair types, patented silencer for quiet styling, weighs less than one pound, features a patented Cool Air Flex Technology, cold shot button, 94 mph motor speed, ion functionality, dual filtration, 1875 watts of electrical power, 9 foot cord, comes with traditional and long-size concentrated nozzles, hanging ring

Cons: High price point, does not fold, not dual voltage

The Ultra Light Pro Dryer is proof that Harry Josh Pro Tools understands that no one should have to sacrifice great hair days in the name of jet-setting. The list of features worth highlighting about this travel hair dryer is lengthy. For example, in terms of travel convenience, the device weighs less than a pound (so it's practically weight less ). However, it isn't foldable and has a 9-foot cord that isn't retractable. 

Still, its salon-quality styling perks are what makes this name-brand dryer worth its splurge-level price point. It features a whopping 12 heat and speed settings for optimal customization; a patented silencer technology for whisper-quiet styling, plus a patented Cool Air Flex technology to protect fingers and hands from potential burns; dual filtration to reduce the device's energy expenditure; and ion functionality to sustain your hair's health. What's more, the hair dryer is constructed with a motor that runs at 94 mph, as well as 1875 watts of electrical power to speed up the drying experience. Each purchase also comes with two attachments: One traditional and one long concentrated nozzle. 

Best for curly hair: Shark HyperAir HD113BRN

travel hair styling tools

Pros: Comes with a diffuser attachment for curls, concentrated nozzle, and small cleaning brush, intelligent heat control, cool shot button, three heat, and three airflow settings

Cons: Lower wattage than other travel hair dryers on this list, is not foldable, attachments will take up extra luggage space, high price point

You might recognize Shark for its vacuum and cleaning devices, but similar to Dyson, the brand also manufactures hair dryers. The HD113BRN is an especially great travel option for curly/wavy hair types as it comes with the brand's IQ Curl-Defining Diffuser which is specifically designed for wavy, curly, and coily tresses. Each purchase also includes an IQ 2-in-1 concentrator nozzle for more focused airflow. 

The Shark HyperAir is another smart styler in the category and is designed with HyperAir IQ, a technology that combines intelligently-controlled high-velocity heated air with ionized air. Together, the air flows to speed up the drying process and protect strands from potential damage/breakage. Heat is measured up to 1,000 times per second for quick, efficient, and even distribution, while negative ions are emitted to smooth strands and reduce frizz. That said, for those who prefer a customizable styling experience, the travel hair dryer's heat and airflow settings can be manually increased or decreased at your discretion. 

Best foldable: Drybar Baby Buttercup Blow-Dryer

travel hair styling tools

Pros: Suitable for all hair types, emits as much power as a full-size hair dryer, folds, two heat/speed settings, concentrated nozzle, cool shot button, weighs less than one pound, designed with ionic technology, comes with a travel bag and two-year warranty

Cons: High price point, reviewers note the dryer only lasts a few years

Fans of the Drybar Buttercup Blow-Dryer will love its travel-size version that weighs less than a pound and folds for easy storage in a suitcase or carry-on. The Baby Buttercup provides users with the same level of power as its full-size counterpart, plus the same amount of styling features: two speed/heat settings, a cool shot button to lock in your final look, and a concentrated nozzle to dry isolated areas and ensure your hair's shine is at its most lustrous. The travel hair dryer was also designed with ionic technology to speed up styling time and keep hair looking and feeling healthy. 

Most compact: LURA Mini Portable Travel Hair Dryer

travel hair styling tools

Pros: Dual voltage, smaller than an iPhone when folded, weighs less than one pound, two heat/speed settings, does not require a converter, comes with 2-pin EU plug adapter, purchase includes a travel bag, attachments include concentrated nozzle and diffuser, double-layer filter, under $50

Cons: Only 1200 watts of electrical power

This travel hair dryer from LURA is strong but mighty. When folded, the styler measures smaller than an iPhone, plus it weighs less than a pound, making it the ultimate travel companion for jet setters with very little luggage space to spare. The biggest downside to this dryer is it only runs on 1200 watts of electrical power, but what it lacks in wattage it makes up in convenience: It boasts dual voltage and doesn't require a converter, plus your purchase includes a 2-pin EU plug adapter and a travel bag for easy storage. The hair dryer is also great for on-the-go styling, with two heat/speed settings, as well as two attachments (a concentrated nozzle and curl diffuser) that cater to both coily and straight strands.

Fastest drying: T3 Afar

travel hair styling tools

Pros: Auto-dual voltage, folds, suitable for all hair types, reduces frizz, comes with a travel bag, concentrated nozzle included, cool shot button, three heat settings, two-speed settings, drys quietly

Cons: High price point, some reviewers note airflow is not as strong as others on the market

While you can't judge a travel hair dryer by its color, there's no denying the T3 Afar's blush pink hue is what initially caught our attention. Fortunately, the travel hair dryer has many selling points beyond its hue, including the brand's exclusive IonAir Technology that releases ions into the air for speedy, yet gentle styling. The smart design also includes an auto-dual voltage, which automatically adapts to foreign voltages. 

As for its styling properties, the Afar features three heat settings and two speed settings, plus a cool shot button. Each purchase comes with a concentrator nozzle so you can pinpoint areas you want to style and prevent frizz.

Best for damaged hair: Panasonic Nanoe Compact Hair Dryer

travel hair styling tools

Pros: Folding handle, nanoe technology, emits healthy ions into its airflow, comes with a QuickDry Nozzle, 5.5ft cord, is under $100, lightweight, has three heat settings, 1400 watts of electrical power, and one nozzle attachment

Cons: Is not dual voltage, not as powerful as other travel hair dryers

If your strands are suffering from breakage, are dull from dehydration, etc., this travel hair dryer from Panasonic can help breathe new life into your tresses, even whilst on the go. Its Nanoe Technology is key in doing so; it draws moisture from the air to manufacture moisture-rich ions that are emitted through its airflow and expelled onto hair. This leads to less breakage and more healthy, shiny tresses. It's also quick-drying, thanks to the 1400 watts of electrical power generating optimal airflow, and the less time hair is exposed to heat, the better. 

Best budget: Revlon Compact Hair Dryer

travel hair styling tools

Pros: Budget-friendly, comes in 3 colors (Black, Yellow, Pink), features two heat and speed settings, a hanging ring, lightweight, does not fold

Cons: Only compatible with 120 volts outlets, bulkier than other travel hair dryers  

Revlon has a reputation for its salon-quality styling tools, and its travel hair dryer is no exception. This model retails for under $10, but you can rest assured that it's a high-quality dryer. The proof: It's amassed over a whopping 68,000 reviews on Amazon alone and averages a 4.6 out of a possible 5-star rating. 

While this suitcase-friendly styler isn't foldable and it's a tad bigger than other travel hair dryers on the market,  the device is notably lightweight. It also boasts features like two heat/speed settings for easy styling, as well as a hanging ring for easy storage. The only major caveat is that, while it offers users 1875 watts of electrical power, this travel hair dryer isn't dual-voltage and is only compatible with outlets that can handle up to 120 volts, so you'll have to invest in an adapter if you're traveling internationally.

When shopping for a travel hair dryer, there are a few things to consider. If you're an avid international traveler, for example, stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, Shelly Aguirre stresses the importance of dual voltage. "You also don't have to compromise on power when you want a compact dryer," Aguirre tells Insider , adding that ceramic, ionic, and Tourmaline features are especially great for jet setters that require frizz control and want lots of shine.

Still, there are no styling features that are a "must" for everyone. Like any other beauty purchase, the travel hair dryer you choose has to cater to your specific needs. This also applies to things like the weight or size of the tool. It will ultimately depend on the device, where you're traveling, and how much room you have in your suitcase to store it.

In short, it all depends on where you're traveling. Different destinations require different voltages, and high-power dryers will require certain adapters. To make sure you're making the right purchase for your getaway, Aguirre recommends referencing the Ceptics Adapter Chart.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

travel hair styling tools

  • Main content

Top 10 Travel Hair Styling Tools

10 must-have tools to style your hair while on-the-go.

10 Must-Have Tools To Style Your Hair While On-The-Go

Planning a vacation this summer? Whether you’re headed to the beach for rest and relaxation or traveling to explore a new city, there’s a good chance you’ll want to style your hair while you’re there. But instead of hauling all of your tools that take up prime real estate in your carry-on, consider investing in a handy hair tool made for traveling. For all of the jet-setters out there, we’ve found the best travel hair styling tools that you can easily pack on your upcoming trips. This list of hair dryers, straightening irons, and curling wands will conveniently fit in a carry-on (and in some cases, a purse) and come with features that help ease the stress of packing and traveling —i.e. storage cases, foldable handles, adaptable voltages, etc. Never again will you need to lug around your full-sized tools after you’ve discovered the convenience of a compact and travel-friendly hair styling tool. You may be in OOO mode, but that doesn't mean your hair needs to stop working. Invest in one of the following travel-ready tools to ensure your hair looks its very best wherever life takes you. Opening image: @t3micro

Love our 10 Best Travel Hair Styling Tools? Check out our 10 Best Carry-On Suitcases  or 10 Best Hair Dryers next!

July 10, 2019

The Rankings

6th Sense Styling Technology Travel Flat Iron 2-in-1 Mini Hair Straightener

6th Sense Styling Technology Travel Flat Iron 2-in-1 Mini Hair Straightener

WHAT IT DOES: This tiny two-in-one functions as both a straightener and a curling iron, so you can save all that precious space in your carry-on for more important things (like these pretty dresses ).

FUN FACT:  Thanks to the insulated carrying case, you don't need to wait for the iron to cool before you pack it back up. Just throw it in and catch that flight.

Menoqi Hair Curling Brush Travel Hair Curling Irons

Menoqi Hair Curling Brush Travel Hair Curling Irons

WHY YOU NEED IT: A hairbrush and curling iron in one, this little tool is the key to achieving a salon-worthy blowout on the go.

HELPFUL TIP: Don't let the size scare you off—it'll fold in half to perfectly fit inside your purse or carry-on.

VAV 2 In 1 Hair Iron Mini Hair Curler and Straightener

VAV 2 In 1 Hair Iron Mini Hair Curler and Straightener

LOVED FOR: The 360-degree swivel cord provides a full range of motion so you can create your best styles with ease—no short and stubby wires here.

USERS SAID: "This mini hair curler and straightener is amazing! Not only is it compact enough to travel with, but it also heats up rather fast so you aren't waiting around for it to warm up. [...] Can't wait to bring it on my next vacation—it'll keep me from going to the salon while I'm away!"

Huachi 2 in 1 Curling and Flat Iron

Huachi 2 in 1 Curling and Flat Iron

LOVED FOR: Tourmaline ceramic technology is the reason this handy tool provides such silky-smooth results. Frizz, be gone.

HELPFUL TIP: Forgot to turn it off? No worries—it'll shut off automatically after 60 minutes.

Drybar Baby Buttercup Blow Dryer

sephora.com

Drybar Baby Buttercup Blow Dryer

LOVED FOR: This cute and compact dryer does a killer job of reducing frizz and adding shine.

USERS SAID: "This is one of those cases where you really do get what you pay for. The size is perfect for everyday use, not just traveling. It is quick, efficient, and quiet. Highly recommend—it puts all other blow dryers to shame."

AmoVee 2 in 1 Mini Flat Iron Curling Iron Travel Hair Straightener

AmoVee 2 in 1 Mini Flat Iron Curling Iron Travel Hair Straightener

WHAT IT DOES: No need to pack two tools. This do-it-all iron allows you to switch from straight to curl with the push of a button.

WHY YOU NEED IT: This little guy packs a punch so powerful, it just might replace your regular styling tools altogether.

T3 SinglePass Compact Iron

nordstrom.com

T3 SinglePass Compact Iron

HELPFUL TIP:  Keep this tucked away at your desk or in your gym bag for quick touch-ups. You can thank us later.

FUN FACT: Powered by T3's unique SinglePass technology, this iron ensures even, optimal heat styling in one single pass to prevent damage.

Conair 1600 Watt Compact Hair Dryer with Folding Handle

Conair 1600 Watt Compact Hair Dryer with Folding Handle

LOVED FOR:  Don't let the baby blue shade and teeny-tiny size fool you—this thing has just as much power as your regular dryer.

HELPFUL TIP: Since it's extra small, it's perfect for storing in tight spaces like your gym locker or tote bag.

BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Mini Straightening Iron

BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Mini Straightening Iron

LOVED FOR: The itty-bitty ceramic plates make straightening those hard-to-reach spots simpler than ever.

USERS SAID: "This thing is amazing! It straightens in one pass, leaves my hair so shiny and healthy looking, adds so much volume without the use of products, and doesn't pull on my hair at all."

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer

WHY YOU NEED IT: With a foldable handle and dual voltage, this compact hair dryer will become your new BFF for international trips.

USERS SAID: "I am an avid international traveler with long straight hair that requires washing and blowing dry every single day. [...] I have tried many travel blow dryers and for the 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."

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So You're Going Abroad and Want 20/10 Hair—How to Pack Every Tool and Product

A couple of weeks ago, I found myself packing for a quick trip to Europe. I was feeling pretty good about myself for being able to fit all of my beauty products into a carry-on bag. I was just about to throw my Dyson Airwrap into my luggage when it dawned on me:  Katie, you can't bring that thing to Europe . 

Anyone who has ever been abroad and tried to plug in anything has undoubtedly learned that the plugs overseas are entirely different than what we have in America. America operates on 120 volts, while other countries operate on anywhere from 110-127V to 220-240V. For things like your computer or iPhone charger, you can get away with any old converter, but once you start wading into higher-powered appliances like hair tools, things can get dicey. While I ended up forgoing a hair tool for this trip, I reached out to stylists so that I can be prepared for my next one. Read on for everything you ever wanted to know about bringing a hair tool abroad. 

Can you use American hair tools in Europe?

Yes, but with a catch. If you want to use a curling iron or straightener, you can probably use it abroad with a converter or adaptor. "Typically, any flat or curling iron is okay to use with a converter, just be sure to bring one that has only one heat level," says celebrity makeup artist and hair stylist Ashley Gomila . "Adjustable and/or multi-heat level tools aren’t recommended for conversion because the temperature regulation could be off and cause the iron to burn out or stop working altogether." 

Gomila says that this adaptor from Tumi is the best one she's tried. It has four ports and works in over 150 countries. 

This converter, which can convert from 220V to 110V, is made specifically with hair tools in mind.

When using a converter or adaptor for a straightener or curling iron, keep in mind it might not get quite as hot as you're used to, and it may not work at all—particularly with heat tools. If you're planning to travel a lot or for a longer period of time, it's probably best to invest in a tool that's specifically made with other countries' voltages in mind, according to celebrity stylist  Alex Osorio with Sally Hershberger Salons. Not only will these ensure more consistent results, but you won't have to worry about burning out your beloved tools by accident. 

The best universal and travel-friendly hair tools:

Never worry about voltage conversions again with this travel dryer from Conair. It has smart voltage technology that detects foreign voltage and is able to adjust automatically—all while keeping your heat and speed settings the same across countries. 

"When traveling abroad, I make sure to keep at least one hair tool with a multi converter," says Gomila. "Balmain Hair Couture offers a travel-friendly Cordless Straightener that comes with all of the converters you will need."

Osorio likes using CHI hair tools abroad. This one has a control circuit that has an automatic route-switching function—you don't even need to use a converter. 

This dual-voltage hair styler has cooling vents to help you lock in curls. It can be used for both curling and straightening, making it extremely versatile. 

T3 makes some of the best hair tools in the game, so it's reassuring that you can also take them with you abroad. This iron is equipped with something called Auto World voltage, which means that it works on 100V to 240V. 

Not only does this bite-sized hair dryer have the same functionality as a full-sized one, it's also less than $30 and has dual-voltage. Plus, the handle folds in to make it even more compact for travel.

Get perfectly undone beach waves wherever you go. This clever tool gives hair gorgeous, tousled waves, and it's also dual-voltage for travel. 

Can't bare the thought of traveling without your blow-dry brush? This model comes with a conversion plug for easy use abroad. 

This cordless, rechargeable hair iron is perfect for on-the-go styling. It has outlet adaptors included to truly take the guesswork out of traveling with hair tools. 

When it comes to traveling internationally, every inch of space in your suitcase counts. That's why this mini-size, dual voltage curling and straightening hybrid tool is such a good investment for traveling purposes. 

Like its straightener counterpart, this luxe, professional-grade blowdryer comes with a multi-converter for traveling with ease. 

Katie Berohn is the associate beauty editor at Who What Wear. Previously, she worked as the beauty assistant for Good Housekeeping , Woman's Day, and Prevention magazines, all part of the Hearst Lifestyle Group. She graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder, with a major in journalism and minor in technology, arts, and media, and earned her master's degree at NYU's graduate program for magazine journalism. In addition, Katie has held editorial internships at Denver Life magazine, Yoga Journal, and Cosmopolitan ; a digital editorial internship at New York magazine's The Cut ; a social good fellowship at Mashable ; and a freelance role at HelloGiggles . When she's not obsessing over the latest skincare launch or continuing her journey to smell every perfume on the planet, Katie can be found taking a hot yoga class, trying everything on the menu at New York's newest restaurant, or hanging out at a trendy wine bar with her friends.

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These Miniature Hair Tools Are 100% Jetsetter-Approved

Mia maguire.

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To be honest, I’m not a huge perfectionist when it comes to my hair (unless we’re talking about color), but ever since I went from long layers to an above-the-shoulder bob, I’ve learned that heat styling is kind of a necessary evil in my routine. Sure, I could often get away with rolling into bed post-shower with sopping wet hair when I had longer locks, only to wake up with (albeit slightly frizzy) waves that were — at least — quasi-presentable. Taking care of your hair when you’re travelling presents even more challenges. I try to pack as lightly as possible to avoid checking a bag at all costs (I’ve been burned with lost luggage way, way too many times) which means that finding the righ t travel hair tools is key if I want to wear my hair down at all during the trip.

I’m certainly not opposed to bringing my own full-sized hair dryer or flat iron on trips and getaways (because, is it just me, or do the ones in the hotels just downright suck?), but if I want to have options with my hair look, toting around my vast collection of hair tools feels high maintenance and frankly, impractical. I’ve used mini-sized styling tools touted for their travel-friendly designs, but they often lead to having to spend double the time styling or simply don’t work at all. However, there are a few tried and true compact tools that are designed to function as your on-the-go hair ally, without compromising performance or quality. Read ahead to find out a few that I personally swear by.

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

These Miniature Hair Tools Are 100% Jetsetter-Approved | STYLECASTER

1. Conair Ceramic Mini Curling Iron

This one inch ceramic curling iron is pint-sized and seriously cute. It’s equipped with dual, worldwide voltage, along with a 356 degree heat setting for quick results. It also features ceramic plated barrel to ensure even heat distribution and prevent damage.

travel hair styling tools

Conair Ceramic Mini Curling Iron

These Miniature Hair Tools Are 100% Jetsetter-Approved | STYLECASTER

2. Revlon Compact Hair Dryer

This compact blow dryer is designed with a super travel-friendly foldable handle for extra portability. It’s great bringing on long trips or just keeping in your gym bag. Despite the smaller size, it still delivers robust power, and offers two different settings, a cool shot button and a removable smoothing attachment for a frizz-free blowout.

travel hair styling tools

Revlon Compact Hair Dryer

These Miniature Hair Tools Are 100% Jetsetter-Approved | STYLECASTER

3. BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Mini Straightening Iron

Flat irons are kind a magic hair tool that can do more than simply strengthen. In fact, I actually use them to create subtle waves and smooth fly-aways. This is precisely why they make a great travel companion when you don’t want to bring multiples. I love this one because it’s small and light weight, but is designed with a temperature that can reach up to 430F degrees.

travel hair styling tools

BabylissPRO Nano Nano Titanium 1" Mini Straightening Iron (Pack of 1)

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

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Harry josh pro tools harry josh pro tools ultra light pro dryer 3 piece.

SinglePass Curl Professional Ceramic Curling Iron

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T3 singlepass curl professional ceramic curling iron.

A must-have tool for novices and professionals alike, the Dyson has built a rabid fanbase for its exceptional technology. You can create various styles using its different attachments, and it works for all hair types, but consistency is the main reason celebrity hairstylist Marc Mena —who counts Mindy Kaling, Madelaine Petsch, and Jennifer Coolidge as clients—loves this investment tool. “It gives consistent heat to the hair and it’s easy for anyone at any skill level to use,” he says.

Sephora star rating : 4/5 stars

What reviewers are saying : “Absolutely OBSESSED! I bought this after seeing all my friends loving theirs. It takes a few times to understand the best way for it to work - after you get the hang of it, it’s super easy. I’ve worked in the hair industry for years and always hated on these types of products since it takes away from the “blowout experience,” but it truly is a huge time saver. It also is so easy for anyone to use. So you can get that “after-salon look” at home. Definitely an investment, but worth it IMO.”

Perfect for braiders, this set of rat tail combs and hair clips allows for expert precision. These specific clips have spacing at the top to make sure parting is easy and clean, while the clips are durable enough to hold the thickest of hairs.

Amazon star rating : 4.7/5 stars

What reviewers are saying : “These combs and clips are good for sectioning when doing hair. I regularly do twists in my boyfriends hair and these are a must-have. Good price for good stuff. Recommend!”

You get the best of both worlds with Drybar’s Blow Drying Flat Iron. The clamp design ensures your hair is straight without needing to follow up with another tool because, err, heat damage.

Sephora star rating : 4.3/5 stars

What reviewers are saying : “Love it! It cut my hair styling time by half and is so easy to use. The effect was very shiny smooth hair [that] still retained good volume. This will be my go-to styling tool from now on. Plus the colors are so cute!”

Wet Brush Volume & Body Round Brush

If you prefer to go the traditional route and do your own blow-out, this round brush allows you to control your hair’s volume, designed specifically for those with thicker, coarse hair.

Amazon star rating : 4.3/5 stars

What reviewers are saying : “The size of the brush is very good. It grabs my hair without tangling it. Finally a brush that works!”

Shark FlexStyle™ Air Drying & Styling System

The viral TikTok beauty gadgets world is chock full of hits and misses. This Shark styling system is one of the many hits—coming with four interchangeable attachments to help you create voluminous curls or sleek, straight styles frizz-free.

Shark star rating : 4.4/5 stars

What reviewers are saying : “Prior to purchasing the FlexStyle, I was always looking for a hair tool and something that wouldn’t hurt my hair immensely. When I saw this release, I got extremely excited and purchased it without even second-guessing. My hair is fine and frizzy, and struggles to hold volume. Using the shark, I’ve found that it not only holds volume but has found new life and so much more shine than I have ever seen it have before. If you are even debating this, just get it, 100%!”

Getting your hair as close to straight as possible is a crucial step when trying to achieve a sleek look. This Amika brush helps you reach your goal faster with three different thermal settings (including a no-heat option) and a ceramic base to reduce frizz.

Sephora star rating : 4.4/5 stars

What reviewers are saying : “Worth the hype and $$$! I use this in the morning to quickly get ready or to freshen up my hair if I’m going out. 10/10”

Smooth and slick your baby hairs down with this 3-in-1 tool from Baby Tress. One side has comb bristles to set the hairs in place, and the other side features a brush to mold and morph your baby hairs into whatever style you choose. Use the tail end to create intricate detailing. Of course, good edge control is needed to seal the deal.

Nordstrom star rating : 3.1/5 stars

What reviewers are saying : “happy to support a black-owned startup, and I love the design of this product. It feels solid in the hand -- I used a similar product in the past that snapped in half because it was made of thin plastic. It works well, the silicone bristles are easy to clean, and the protective cap keeps product residue out of my toiletry bag as well.”

The super-thin titanium plates get close to the root to flat iron the hair straight with one swipe and reduce frizz. Plus, the flat design allows you to create fluffy flat iron curls thanks to its extended plate design.

Ulta star rating : 4.2/5 stars

What reviewers are saying : “I have a short bob haircut with thick, naturally curly hair that I blow out. This straightener is definitely high quality and only requires one pass to get it straight.”

This blow dryer may be light in weight, but it packs a powerful punch. Designed by the hair pro himself, the Harry Josh dryer has 12 heat and speed settings, adjustable temperature control, and a lightweight design for seamless drying.

Dermstore star rating : 4.1/5

What reviewers are saying: “This is hands down the best dryer ever!!! It cuts down my dry time significantly and leaves me with the best blow out. You have to buy this!”

One pass is all you need to get the curl of your dream. In a time crunch? This curling iron heats up super fast and glides on your hair seamlessly, so you don’t experience painful tugging or snagging.

Ulta star rating : 4.1/5 stars

What reviewers are saying : “Excellent quality. My dry, coarse hair just glides around the tube - very smooth. Curls are pretty. Multiple options for heat. Small but good benefit - there is a velcro tape attached to the cord, which makes it easy to fold up the cord when not in use. I recommend.”

Beachwaver B1 Rotating Curling Iron - Midnight Rose

B1 Rotating Curling Iron - Midnight Rose

Here’s a hardworking curling iron that does all the work, so you don’t have to. Beachwaver’s fan-favorite curling iron does exactly what its title says—rotate. Yes, all you have to do is wrap your hair around the barrel, hold it firmly and allow the smart gadget to do its job.

Beachwaver star rating : 4.8/5 stars

What reviewers are saying: “I had my doubts. It looks too easy, and I am notorious for not being able [to] use tools correctly. And I thought for sure my hair would get stuck. But holy cow, was this simple to use! I’ve had it for two days, and everyone says how great my hair looks. Highly recommend!”

T3 Afar - Lightweight Travel Size Hair Dryer

Afar - Lightweight Travel Size Hair Dryer

T3 created the perfect travel companion for those who like to pack their entire hair care routine. Hotel dryers are gross, so this compact tool fits perfectly in your carry-on thanks to its foldable design. Even better, it’s designed with dual voltage in case you frequent the EU.

Sephora star rating : 4.8/5 stars

What reviewers are saying : “I absolutely love the T3 AFAR Blowdryer! I am having my destination wedding in a few months & wanted to get a travel-size blowdryer that actually works. The T3 Afar is 25% lighter & 30% smaller than a full-size T3 hair dryer, so it is perfect to pack in your suitcase or carry on! I love that it has two-speed settings and three heat settings, so it is super versatile. It dries my hair super quick, while leaving it looking smooth & shiny. It uses T3 IonAir Technology to smooth the hair cuticle to minimize frizz & enhance the shine!”

Wavytalk 3/10 Inch Mini Hair Straightener

3/10 Inch Mini Hair Straightener

If you recently got a pixie cut, purchase this mini flat iron to keep your soft waves crisp until your next salon visit.

Amazon star rating : 4.4/5 stars

What people are saying : “I was not sure that they would work for my hair, but needless to say that I love them 😍 They have great heat control and [are] easy to use.”

Kiss Gold Edition 5-In-1 Curling Iron

Gold Edition 5-In-1 Curling Iron

Whether you’re looking to achieve tight, spring curls or old Hollywood waves, Kiss’s curling iron set gives you five different barrel attachments to choose from.

Amazon star rating : 4.2/5 stars

What people are saying : “Love these. Very convenient and it stays heated for a full set. I wish it came with a bag and the wires were longer.”

Meet the Expert

elle line break

Marc Mena , LA-based celebrity hairstylist.

.css-1wfsl5s{font-family:SaolDisplay,SaolDisplay-fallback,SaolDisplay-roboto,SaolDisplay-local,Georgia,Times,serif;font-weight:normal;margin-bottom:0.625rem;margin-top:0.625rem;text-align:center;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1wfsl5s{font-size:2.375rem;line-height:1.2;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-1wfsl5s{font-size:2.375rem;line-height:1.2;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1wfsl5s{font-size:3rem;line-height:1.2;letter-spacing:-0.0225rem;}}@media(min-width: 73.75rem){.css-1wfsl5s{font-size:3rem;line-height:1.2;}}.css-1wfsl5s b,.css-1wfsl5s strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-1wfsl5s em,.css-1wfsl5s i{font-style:italic;font-family:inherit;} What should you be looking for in a hair styling tool?

elle line break

Ultimately, the hairstyle you’re trying to achieve is what helps you determine what tool to use. A heated curling iron is the best option if you want long-lasting curls. Celebrity hairstylist Marc Mena says when choosing a hot tool, pay attention to the heat settings. “The most important thing to look for with any hot tool is temperature control. Hair’s threshold for heat varies from person to person, so setting the temperature and administering the right amount of heat for your hair is really the key,” he explains.

How should you prep your hair for heat styling?

elle line break

You should continually assess your hair’s needs to determine what tools to use and how much heat to apply to your hair. Protection is key. “A heat-protecting spray is a must-have item for anyone regularly styling their hair with heat. Also, a great conditioner that locks moisture into the hair,” Mena adds. Deep conditioning should also be a part of pre-heat styling to strengthen the hair.

Why are hair tools so essential in a routine (are they?)?

elle line break

“A great blow dryer is the most essential tool to have in your arsenal because they are so versatile. You can create bouncy, voluminous curls with just your dryer and a ceramic metal brush or just blow out straight. If you’re looking for sexy curls and waves without heat, setting your hair with rollers works just as well as curling irons,” Mena says.

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Enjoy good hair days on the go with styling tools and products ideal for your next adventure.

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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.

SKIP AHEAD How we picked the top-rated travel diffusers | Top-rated travel diffusers to shop in 2024 | How to shop for travel diffusers | Who should use a hair diffuser? | How to use a diffuser | How to pack a diffuser

Our top picks

travel hair styling tools

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.

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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.

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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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.

The 20 Best Hair Tools for Every Styling Need

The top irons, brushes, and more

close up view of lock of long blond hair on hairbrush being dried by blow dryer

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

The Best Hair Tools

One-Step Volumizer Hair Dryer

Best Blow-Dry Brush

Revlon one-step volumizer hair dryer.

Airwrap Multi-Styler Complete Long

Best for Long Hair

Dyson airwrap multi-styler complete long.

SpeedStyle for Curly & Coily Hair

Best for Curly Hair

Shark speedstyle for curly & coily hair.

BaBylissPRO Volare V1 Dryer With Ferrari-Designed Engine

Hairstylist Pick: Blow Dryer

Babylisspro babylisspro volare v1 dryer with ferrari-designed engine.

Cordless Ceramic Curling Wand 1 Inch

Hairstylist Pick: Curling Iron

Harry josh pro tools cordless ceramic curling wand 1 inch.

Speedy Blo Hair Dryer

Hairstylist Pick: Under $100

Trademark beauty speedy blo hair dryer.

Duet Style 2-in-1 Hot Air Styler

Hairstylist Pick: Wet to Dry

Ghd duet style 2-in-1 hot air styler.

Babe Waves X - Pink

Hairstylist Pick: Wave Iron

Trademark beauty babe waves x - pink.

The Chameleon 5 Barrel Interchangeable Curling Kit

Best Curling Wand

Amika the chameleon 5 barrel interchangeable curling kit.

Smooth ID 1" Digital Ceramic Flat Iron

Best Straightening Iron

T3 smooth id 1" digital ceramic flat iron.

Revlon’s blow-dry brush changed the game, and it did so for a price that can’t be beat. It’s still one of our all-time favorites , and a must-have for those get-ready-quick mornings.

Customer review: “So easy to use and much better than a brush and dryer separately.” —Shauna

The price tag may be eye-popping, but our editors stand by this investment, given this hair tool’s endless versatility. And if you have long hair, there’s a specially designed version for you featuring larger attachments.

Customer review: “I love this thing! I’ve noticed wayyyy less shedding when I dry/style my hair now. This makes my mornings so much more efficient too since it dries hair so quickly and smooths it out at the same time. There’s a little bit of a learning curve but nothing a couple YouTube videos can’t help. 10/10 recommend!” —Gina89

Shark SpeedStyle for Curly & Coily Hair

Another multitasking tool that both dries and styles is Shark’s SpeedStyle. Shaped more like a traditional blow dryer, it lets you rough-dry your hair first, then add on your diffuser, brush, or smoothing attachment as needed.

Customer review: “It really dries my hair fast. I love the result I get. My hair is shiny and stays curly. This is the best dryer I have ever used. It’s kind of fun too. I definitely recommend this!”

This powerful dryer is the go-to for Solivan. “It comes with an extra boost button that helps kick it into overdrive when you’re in a pinch. And the B series Ibiza boar-bristle brushes help smooth hair and give it shine, without stripping the hair of all of its natural oils,” says the pro.

Customer review: “This hair dryer left my hair silky smooth. Anyone that has thick hair like mine should have this blow dryer.” —Astrid

As for a curling iron, “The new cordless curling irons by Harry Josh Pro have become a staple in my kit when traveling and doing photoshoots,” says Maine. “I love having the ability to recharge a battery while still using the iron. The ceramic coating makes gliding through the hair a breeze.”

Customer review: “I use it every morning, all around the house. No longer tethered to the wall and it has all the power needed. So happy and love this brand." —Sara

Maine says this blow dryer from his line, Trademark Beauty, is his favorite right now. “It’s compact, lightweight, powerful and affordable. I travel often for clients, so having a dryer that I can easily pack is important,” says Maine, adding that “It’s rare you can find such a powerful quality dryer under $100.”

Customer review: “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. It did an amazing job at styling my bangs, best blow dryer ever!!” —Virginia

For anyone looking to cut down on styling time, consider this tool. “The new GHD Duet styler is a super cool innovation that makes it simple for people to go from dripping wet hair to sleek and straight with minimal effort,” explains Maine. “This iron is a staple for anyone with a lot of textured hair that loves making it sleek and straight.”

Customer review: “You guys I’m obsessed with this ! It takes my hair from a 0-10 in legit 20 minutes.” —sincerelyhaneen

If traditional wave irons take up too much space, Maine recommends this slimmer option. “It gives you the same loose wave provided by triple barrel irons but with only two barrels. This allows you to address shorter hair lengths,” he says. Plus, “The opening and closing method is closer to that of a flat iron so you can apply additional pressure if needed for tough textures.”

Customer review: “This hair waver is easy to use. It heats up fast, and the waves are big and plumped. This tool is ideal for longer hair, I'm using it on my 20" weave” —Neesy

A curling wand is great, but you know what’s even better? A five-in-one curling wand that you can use to create waves and ringlets of all shapes and sizes.

Customer review: “My stick straight hair doesn’t hold a curl for an hour regularly. So when they told me it would hold for 24 hours, I was like you have got to be joking! We curled and waited. And watched. And much to my surprise, the curls STAYED! I couldn’t believe it. Very cool.” —Nichole

T3 Smooth ID 1" Digital Ceramic Flat Iron

Using a straightening iron regularly can lead to damage, so it’s important to use one that takes your hair type and texture into consideration. T3’s model has smart heat settings that you can adjust to minimize damage, and delivers the shiny, smooth finish you’re looking for.

Customer review: “What an incredible flat iron! I’m absolutely terrified of constantly using heat on my hair, but the quality of this iron doesn’t leave my hair damaged! My hair lasts straight for days and looks so soft!” —hhayleej

T3 Edge Heated Smoothing & Styling Brush

Edge Heated Smoothing & Styling Brush

Perfect for both hairstyling novices and touch-ups, this tool straightens as you brush it through the hair—no added skill required.

Customer review: “Wow! This brush is amazing! I have long coarse hair and I do Brazilian blowouts. My stylist said the blowout will last longer if I don’t use a flat iron. She recommended this type of brush for between washes. The engineer deserves a prize. It’s super simple to use and I get great results.” —jeegdg

Bio Ionic Universal Diffuser

Universal Diffuser

A lot of diffusers come with blow dryers, but Bio Ionic’s is sold separately, so you can attach it to the one you already own and love. The diameter is 2.25 inches, so double-check it will fit your model.

Customer review: “One of the best hair gadgets ever discovered and purchased! It works perfectly. It’s easy to use, and my natural curls respond with more curliness.” —Robin

Kitsch Satin Heatless Curling Set

Satin Heatless Curling Set

Thanks to TikTok, we know we can get flowing curls without any heat at all. This set features a pillowy satin rod to wrap your hair around, plus two scrunchies to secure it (but you can use them separately as hair ties too—who are we to stop you).

Customer review: “Honestly was not sure this would work, but I LOVE it. Lasts for multiple days, takes a fraction of the time as a curling iron, and gives great curls!” —TaylorY

Conair 20-Piece Hot Rollers With Clips

20-Piece Hot Rollers With Clips

Hot rollers are having a moment thanks to their movie-star-worthy finish. Conair’s set features eight extra-large (1.25"), six large (1"), and six medium (.75") ceramic-coated rollers, so you can mix and match around your head as needed.

Customer review: “I absolutely loved the Conair heated rollers. The varying sizes helped achieve different curls and volume I wanted in my hair. Super easy to use and your hair looks amazing. My curls lasted for few days and I got so many compliments.” —Har

LolaVie Wet Brush Pro Flex Dry

Pro Flex Dry

A collaboration between Wet Brush and Jennifer Aniston’s LolaVie hair care, this brush has everything : heat-resistant bristles, a vented design to help hair dry faster, and flexible bristles that contour to the scalp.

Customer review: “Fantastic wet brush that’s gentle enough to also use on my dry hair. Bonus: It’s easy to clean. I love it so much I ordered a second for my mom.” —Marianne

FHI Heat Wet & Dry Vented Detangling Hair Brush

Wet & Dry Vented Detangling Hair Brush

ICYMI, this hairbrush is taking TikTok by storm. Here’s why: The vented back allows air to flow and won’t catch buildup, while the straight bristles are easy to clean.

Customer review: “This by far has been the best detangling brush we have tried on the market... both wet and dry this thing goes through like butter.” —June

Denman Original Styler 7 Row Hairbrush

Original Styler 7 Row Hairbrush

Curly-haired girlies know a hairbrush is to be loved and feared, but the Denman brush is one you can trust. The bristles help define curls when hair is wet, and won’t tug or pull.

Customer review: “I’ve been using my Denman brush for five years and I can’t live without it. This brush is a game changer. My curls are so defined and I constantly get compliments from strangers.”

The Hair Edit Section & Style Comb

Section & Style Comb

A rattail comb (yes, real name) is the secret weapon of your hair tool kit. Use the “tail” to create a clean part, shape edges, and to section pieces for drying, then flip it around and use the comb for smoothing.

Customer review: “Such a great rat tail comb 10/10 recommend! Perfect size for all your needs plus the sharp end for detail work.” —ESmith289

Pattern by Tracee Ellis Ross Edge Tool

Edge Tool

Who doesn’t love a multipurpose must-have? This two-sided edge tool has vegan bristles to shape hairs and hold them in place. Plus, the pointy-ended handle acts as a sectioning tool.

Customer review: “I love the Edge Tool. I use it + the Pattern Edge Control when I want a sleeker look (a pony, a bun, etc.) It’s also great for touch-ups.” —Laphora

Olivia Garden Nanothermic Brush

Nanothermic Brush

Even if you blow-dry your hair once a year, you need a round brush. This one has a ceramic-coated barrel that heats up quickly and stays warm, giving hair a soft, smooth finish as it creates volume.

Customer review: “I love this brush. I have fine hair. This brush helps me to get the styles that I want. It helps my hair to dry quickly and doesn't drag through my hair as I dry it.” —Suzanne

Lindy Segal is a beauty writer and editor. In addition to regularly contributing to BAZAAR.COM , she also writes for Glamour , People , WhoWhatWear , and Fashionista , among other publications. She lives in New York City with her Chihuahua mix, Barney.

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Eva NYC travel size hair care products and styling tools are perfect for any touch-ups while you're on-the-go.

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FoxyBae Travel Hair Tools – Includes 1” Mini Flat Iron, 0.75” Travel Curling Iron Mini, Dual Voltage Mini Blow Dryer & Travel Bag – Rose Gold Mini Hair Styling Tools

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About this item.

  • [Travel Without the Hassle] Tired of lugging around bulky hair tools? Travel with the mini versions of your favorites with our 4-piece hair kit: Foxybae curling wand, mini hair straightener, travel hair dryer, and travel bag, all in a compact size.
  • [Salon-Quality Results Anywhere in the World] Dual voltage for international travel ensures your travel curling iron, travel blow dryer, and mini straightener flat iron provide salon-quality results, without worrying about voltage differences.
  • [Healthier Styling with Foxy Bae Mini Travel Hair Tools] Our rose gold tourmaline-infused ceramic plates emit negative ions to minimize thermal damage, condition the cuticle, tame frizz, and add shine to your hair.
  • [Achieve the Ideal Styling Temperature to Minimize Damage] Our travel hair kit quickly heats up to ideal temperatures for safe and effective styling: the mini curling iron heats to 390°F and the travel size flat iron heats to 410°F.
  • [Half the Size, All the Results] Foxybae mini hair tools kit may be small, but it's mighty, providing you with gorgeous and healthy-looking hair wherever you go.

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FoxyBae Travel Hair Tools – Includes 1” Mini Flat Iron, 0.75” Travel Curling Iron Mini, Dual Voltage Mini Blow Dryer & Travel

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FoxyBae Mini Travel Kit for Hair Styling – Rose Gold

Product details

  • Is Discontinued By Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ No
  • Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 1 x 2 x 3 inches; 1.9 Pounds
  • Item model number ‏ : ‎ RG-TRK-U
  • Date First Available ‏ : ‎ April 26, 2023
  • Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ FoxyBae
  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0C3Q3S2HJ
  • #285 in Hair Straightening Irons

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Anne Hathaway’s Red Carpet Prep Included the Shark Hair Dryer I Use for Bouncy Blowouts at Home — and It’s on Sale

But only for PEOPLE readers, and only for a few more hours

travel hair styling tools

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Getty Images / Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

I firmly believe that leaving the salon with a fresh, bouncy blowout is one of life’s greatest pleasures. But the price that comes with those appointments? Not so much. That’s why, after years of trial and error, I was ecstatic to finally uncover the key to creating post-salon volume at home: the Shark FlexStyle .

For the unacquainted, the FlexStyle is an all-in-one blow dryer, straighter, and curling iron that styles hair by sucking it around the barrel with heated air, resulting in beautiful barrel curls. And right now, during the PEOPLE Exclusive Flash Sale: Spring Refresh , it’s exclusively on sale for readers with the promo code PEOPLE25 .

While I was first introduced to the tool when it rose to prominence on TikTok last year, it wasn’t until December that I decided to purchase one for myself. After conducting a ridiculous amount of research, I was sold on the fact that the hair tool was easy to operate and great at creating volume without damaging hair, according to reviewers — and I can now confirm that it does all of the above, and then some. 

Shark PEOPLE Exclusive Flash Sale Deals

  • Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System Ultimate 6-Piece Accessory Pack , $239.99 with code PEOPLE25 (orig. $319.99)
  • Shark FlexStyle FrizzFighter Finishing Tool Limited Edition Gift Set , $262.49 with code PEOPLE25 (orig. $349.99)
  • Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System Ultimate Travel Set in Copper , $262.49 with code PEOPLE25 (orig. $349.99)
  • Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System Limited Edition Ultimate Gift Set in Lilac Frost , $262.49 with code PEOPLE25 (orig. $349.99)

Until midnight ET tonight, Thursday, March 7, shoppers can save 25 percent on six-piece, seven-piece, and nine-piece Shark FlexStyle gift sets when using our code at checkout. Although each set includes a variety of frizz-fighting, volumizing, and curling attachments and accessories, they all come with the same Shark FlexStyle base and two 1.25-inch auto-wrap curlers — my secret weapons for at-home blowouts — so you really can’t go wrong with any option.

Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System Ultimate 6-Piece Accessory Pack, $240 with code

In addition to receiving my stamp of approval, the hair tool also got A-list backing when it was used on Anne Hathaway ahead of the 2024 SAG Awards . Much like in my own routine, hairstylist Adir Abergel first used the FlexStyle base to roughly dry the actress’ wet hair before attaching the auto-wrap curlers to create voluminous barrel curls, which he pinned, let sit, and eventually brushed out.

Hathaway and I aren’t the only ones who have used the Shark FlexStyle: More than 3,800 shoppers have given the tool a five-star rating across Amazon, Shark, and Best Buy for its “versatility,” “sleek and compact” size, and ability to work on hair types of varying thickness levels and textures. What’s more? Several reviewers on Shark’s website have even compared it to the pricier Dyson AirWrap, with one reviewer noting that the FlexStyle has made them “retire” their Dyson for good.

Shark FlexStyle FrizzFighter Finishing Tool Limited Edition Gift Set, $262 with code

“I have purchased and tried almost every hair styling tool on the market,” a separate reviewer wrote on the brand’s website. “This one is the holy grail. I love that it's small, light, and all-in-one. It is easy to get a curl and the curl holds for days.”

A third reviewer shared, “I have thick hair and let’s just say it took 10 minutes to make my hair look like it’s fresh out of the salon. Highly recommend it!”

If you’re ready to start creating red carpet-worthy blowouts from the comfort of your home, keep scrolling to shop Shark FlexStyles while they’re on sale. But don’t dilly-dally! The event ends for good in just a few hours.

All PEOPLE Exclusive Flash Sale: Spring Refresh Deals

  • Spanx : Rare discount alert! Get 15% off the Perfect Hi-Rise Flare Pant with code PEOPLE15
  • Ilia: Get a Black Friday-level discount on the Super Serum Skin Tint with code PEOPLE20
  • Vegamour: Enter code PEOPLE15 to get an additional 15% off your first month of a GRO Hair Serum subscription, which is already 23% off 
  • Rue La La : Save up to 70% on celeb-worn shoe brands like Birkenstock and Stuart Weitzman 
  • Briogeo: Get 20% off haircare for all hair types with sitewide code PEOPLE20
  • dpHue: Level up your hair color with 30% off Root Touch-Up Kit, Brightening Powder, and more sitewide — use code PEOPLE30
  • Shark : Score 25% off select FlexStyle models with code PEOPLE25
  • Neiwei : Ultra-comfy bras, underwear, and more from the Barely Zero collection are 25% off with code SPRING
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Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System Ultimate Travel Set in Copper, $262 with code

Shark flexstyle air styling & drying system limited edition ultimate gift set in lilac frost, $262 with code, see more from people shopping.

travel hair styling tools

The Best Budget-Friendly Hair Styling Tools Under $100

In the well-stocked world of hair styling products there are efficacious formulas available at every potential price point.

There are hair serums we save up for and dole out with care every time we apply them. But there are also haircare products that you can cop for less than $15 (shampoo, conditioner, dry shampoo, you name it) from the supermarket, if you know your way around the shelves.

Similarly, we’ve learned how to adapt our hair colouring rituals to meet an inflexible budget to avoid forking over $400 every time we visit the salon. But when it comes to hair styling tools, there is a general consensus that the best hot tools are always the most expensive, which is just categorically untrue.

So, we’ve tapped the best hair styling tools under $100 on the market to help change the minds of any non-believers out there. Keep scrolling for our recommendations…

Best Hairdryer Under $100: VS Sassoon Nourishology 2200 Dryer

VS Sassoon’s newest hairdryer uses micro-conditioning technology to infuse hair with argan, coconut and aloe vera oils during styling. Plus, it is equipped with keratin ceramic-ionic technology, which helps to smooth hair too. The high torque fan system dries strands in light speed, while the concentrator attachment allows you to be more precise. As for the curl diffuser? Well, it defines, enhances and volumises your natural curl pattern from the root of the hair to the tip.

$49 at JB Hi-Fi

Best Blow Dry Brush Under $100: Remington Hydraluxe Blow Dry Brush

Blow dry brushes are the hottest hair tool at the moment thanks to the Dyson Airwrap, but for those of us who don’t have $900 to spend on an air styler this is the next best thing. The Remington Hydraluxe has a moisture lock ceramic coating that distributes micro-conditioners into the hair during styling, while the hydracare setting ensures your hair remains healthy during styling and uses low temperatures only. There are three heat settings and the styler can be operated at two different speeds.

$69.95 at Priceline

Best Hair Straightener Under $100: Muk Style Stick Black

This hair straightener is the sure and steady boyfriend of the hair tool world. It’s reliable, simple, and good for your hair. It features tourmaline ceramic plates that emit negative ions, which reduce frizz and static during styling. Plus, the ion technology seals the hair cuticle, helping to lock in moisture and prevent damage to the hair. It also has adjustable heat settings (80°C – 210°C) and infra-red heat technology, which promotes longer-lasting hair styles.

$79.95 at Oz Hair & Beauty

Best Hair Curler Under $100

We’re firmly opposed to any hair curler that gives us tight, Shirley Temple curls, which is why we love this larger 38mm barrel for creating voluminous beachy waves. The curling tong heats up quickly and utilises ceramic technology to ensure your curls look smooth, shiny and stay in place all day.

$74.96 at Oz Hair & Beauty

Best Wave Wand Under $100: Bondi Boost Wave Wand 32mm Barrel

Prefer the finish of a mermaid waver over a traditional hair curler? This is the best hair tool for the job. It comes equipped with three large 32mm waving barrels coated in a high-grade crystal powder tourmaline ceramic glaze, an adjustable temperature gauge (80°C to 210°C), and safety features like a non slip handle and insulated barrel tips.

$59.95 at Oz Hair & Beauty

Best Hair Crimper Under $100: Mermade Hair Double Waver

While this double waver isn’t going to give you the crisp-edged crimped hair that was so popular in the ’90s and early ’00s, it will give you an updated (and in our opinion, a more wearable) version of the hairstyle. The lightweight waver features two 25mm ionic ceramic plated barrels that create a soft, S-wave pattern in the hair. Plus, it heats up in just 60 seconds and turns off automatically after an hour to prevent any accidents.

$99 at Adore Beauty

Best Mini Travel Hair Straightener: Glister Mini Travel Tourmaline Straightener 13mm

We have a real bone to pick with whoever decided that most hair styling tools have to be bulky, heavy and hard to pack, which is why we love this travel-friendly mini straightening tong. The 13mm tong comes with it’s own travel pouch and can be used to create smooth, silky styles with the same ease as a full-sized hair tool.

$49 at Oz Hair & Beauty

Image credit: Getty

What’s your favourite budget-friendly hair tool?

The Best Budget-Friendly Hair Styling Tools Under $100 appeared first on beautyheaven .

The Best Budget-Friendly Hair Styling Tools Under $100

Béis Luggage Review: Is the Buzzy Travel Brand Actually Worth It?

Our honest thoughts on everything from the viral Weekender Bag to the best-selling Carry-On Roller.

a photo of the beis carry on luggage and beis weekender bag

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

Our honest Béis luggage review

Is béis luggage worth it, more of béis luggage to consider.

Between hectic airport lines, crowded public transit and dreaded delays, traveling is already stressful enough. Drab, poorly made luggage should be the last of your concerns. Enter Béis, actress Shay Mitchell's travel brand touted as one of the Internet's favorite places to shop functional and stylish suitcases — at equally attractive prices.

There's no denying its stunning designs, but we had to see for ourselves just how practical their offerings were. So, I recruited the best-selling Front Pocket Carry-On Roller as my travel companion from Brooklyn, New York, to Boston, Massachusetts. I also compared notes with our Good Housekeeping Institute pros who regularly perform rigorous tests on suitcases to determine which ones best suit different needs. We tapped Senior Textiles Analyst Emma Seymour for her expertise on all things Béis, including the coveted Carry-On Roller .

Read on for our complete Béis luggage review , and get answers to the frequently asked questions about the celebrity-owned luggage brand.

The bottom line: Béis luggage is an excellent investment for style-conscious, casual travelers — but frequent flyers willing to splurge may want a more durable option.

What is Béis?

Founded in 2018, Béis (pronounced "base") made waves for its color-coordinated luggage, including a creamy Beige that became the brand's signature and a bubblegum Atlas Pink that perpetually sells out. TikTok helped propel the brand to viral fame thanks to hearty endorsements of the Weekender Bag , while luggage tags , tote bags and toiletry cases accompany its popular luggage.

That lineup includes four styles: a Carry-On Roller and a Front Pocket Carry-On , plus a medium-sized 26-inch Check-In Roller and a large-sized 28-inch Check-In Roller . Each suitcase is outfitted with a hard polycarbonate shell and 360-degree spinner wheels. But unlike other brands, Béis incorporates smart details like a retractable bag strap, a built-in weight indicator and a padded trolley handle.

As a frequent traveler herself, Mitchell said she thought about features she wished her old suitcases had. "I wanted to add a feature to the luggage to make it easy and simple," she told Bustle about the weight limit indicator. "It goes to one of the biggest goals for all of our products: Trying to make travel easier for people so they do it more."

Béis Front Pocket Carry-On Roller

Front Pocket Carry-On Roller

Béis Carry-On Roller

Carry-On Roller

Like other GH Institute-tested luggage such as Monos and Away , Béis suitcases feature a hard polycarbonate shell. Tougher than plastic and lighter than aluminum, polycarbonate suitcases generally earn high marks in our Lab tests — and Béis's carry-ons are no exception.

When traveling with the front-pocketed iteration, all my belongings (including my laptop, glass perfume bottles and souvenirs) remained perfectly intact throughout a bumpy ride in the luggage section of a Peter Pan bus. The padded front pocket cushioned my 16-inch MacBook during subway and train rides. I noticed some minor scuffs forming on the exterior. However, the Béis carry-on endured the excursion with no bumps or dents.

Our Lab expert, Emma Seymour, also performed several tests on the Carry-On Roller (sans front pocket) to determine how it may hold up over years of traveling. She put weights in the suitcase and dropped it repeatedly at a three-foot height from different angles. Similar to my own experience, the Béis carry-on didn't dent during any of the drop tests, though we did notice a few scuffs developing .

beis luggage with scuffs

Seymour tested the suitcase's scratch resistance in the Textiles Lab, and she found that it scratched and scuffed easily, especially around the edges by the zippers and handles. Fortunately, the textured matte finish wears the scratches and scuffs better than a shiny suitcase. We recommend buffing out scuffs with a sponge, like the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser .

Ease of Use

Whether you're traveling by subway, train or bus, the Béis Carry-On maneuvers like a dream. Its 360-degree spinner wheels glided smoothly across a variety of surfaces despite my heavy duffle strapped atop. Another one of my favorite features is the cushioned, telescoping handle. The squishy padding made rolling the suitcase through crowds far more comfortable, and it added a luxe touch compared to more expensive suitcases I've tried.

All Béis suitcases also come with a built-in scale, which Seymour appreciated when she had to check in her bag at the airport. Simply lift the suitcase by its side handle, and the discreet weight indicator window will turn red if your bag is over 50 pounds .

Béis makes light work out of packing. Using the carry-on with a front pocket, I had more than enough room to stash essentials for a long weekend — though, strategic packers (armed with handy packing cubes ) could probably fit a couple of weeks' worth of clothing. I fit everything from winter clothing and a pair of boots to a Béis toiletry bag and a full-sized hair dryer.

beis luggage review

Compared to the Monos Carry-On Pro (39.9L) or the Away Carry-On (39.8l), Béis claims the Front Pocket Carry-On offers a 47L interior — all while staying within airline regulation-approved dimensions. Those who need a smidge more space can opt for the classic Béis Carry-On that expands from 49L to 66L of packing space, per the brand. However, it's important to note that this model exceeds some airline regulations, meaning you may be asked to check it on smaller planes.

Both carry-on styles open butterfly style, with a zippered compartment on one side and a main compartment on the other . Inside the zippered side, there are two additional pockets built in — one frosted and one opaque — for holding toiletries, undergarments, chargers and more. A fabric divider keeps items organized while the adjustable compression straps give optimal packing room and help prevent items from shifting.

Just be careful not to overstuff the zipper pockets; otherwise, it can be difficult to close the bag. An added perk I loved: All Béis suitcases come with drawstring bags for dirty laundry or shoes.

For casual travelers, yes! Stylish and affordable, Béis luggage best suits those who only travel a handful of times per year or those who don't mind treating their suitcases with a bit more TLC.

During both personal use and Lab drop testing, the carry-ons were easily scuffed. Frequent flyers who need a suitcase to last them through years of continuous use may want to invest extra money in workhorse suitcases like Samsonite or TravelPro . I also found the Béis slightly harder to zip up than other suitcases when fully packed.

What it lacks in durability, Béis makes up for with premium details: an ergonomic telescoping handle, a built-in weight indicator, a bag strap and a handy TSA lock system. Weighing in at 8.6 lbs, it's slightly heavier than Monos or Away, but as an overpacker, I find that added storage a fair trade-off.

Aesthetics aside — luggage is a big investment at the end of the day. We appreciate that Béis offers some of the most attractive luggage we've tried while ringing in slightly less expensive than its competitors at $218 to $248 for a carry-on.

Béis shot to viral fame for its Weekender Bag — available in standard and mini sizes. Those on TikTok loved its sleek silhouette and clever details like a separate shoe compartment and a padded laptop sleeve. It also helped re-popularize the concept of weekender bags. Impressed by its airline-compatible dimensions and under-$100 price tag, we dubbed the Mini Weekender the most stylish weekender bag . The Béis Work Tote also earned nods from the GH Institute as the most fashionable work bag .

If you prefer a more classic style, the BÉISics Duffle is a great alternative. Similarly, it features a handy trolley strap that secures your bag on top of your suitcase — a lifesaver during long commutes. The Dopp Kit was larger than I expected, conveniently designed with two separate compartments for my makeup and skincare. I had a difficult time getting it to lay flat in my carry-on suitcase when packed to the brim, but it fit all the products I needed for my trip with room to spare. Plus, it's under $50.

The Mini Weekender

Béis The Mini Weekender

The Work Tote

Béis The Work Tote

BÉISics Duffle

Béis BÉISics Duffle

The Dopp Kit

Béis The Dopp Kit

Lauren is a Brooklyn-based journalist and Associate Editor at Hearst. You can find her previous work at Entertainment Tonight , Shop TODAY , USA Today , Self Magazine , L’Officiel USA , V Magazine, and Modern Luxury Media . 

Headshot of Emma Seymour

Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

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IMAGES

  1. 10 Best Travel Hair Styling Tools

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  2. 10 Best Travel Hair Styling Tools

    travel hair styling tools

  3. 10 Best Travel Hair Styling Tools

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    travel hair styling tools

  5. 10 Best Travel Hair Styling Tools

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  6. 10 Best Travel Hair Styling Tools

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COMMENTS

  1. The 8 Best Travel-sized Hot Tools of 2024

    Barbara Sturm, Oribe, R+Co, and Kerastase each have excellent nourishing masks that leave hair silky smooth and primed for styling. Kevin Murphy's blow dry collection is also top of the line ...

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  4. 10 Useful Travel Abroad Tips to using Hair Styling Tools

    Hair is important to many of us when we travel. I mean really, photos are being taken left and right. There is no shame in admitting we want to look good. I know I do. You will always find me traveling with hair styling tools when I know the weather conditions will be just right (zero humidity, heat, or chance of rain).

  5. 8 Best Mini Flat Irons of 2023

    BaBylissPRO Mini Straightening Iron. $35 at Ulta Beauty $26 at Walmart. Credit: BaByliss. Pros. Won't tug at hair. Great for taming frizz. Cons. Some online reviews say it took longer to heat up ...

  6. Amazon.com: Travel Hair Styling Tools

    FoxyBae Travel Hair Tools - Includes 1" Mini Flat Iron, 0.75" Travel Curling Iron Mini, Mini Blow Dryer Travel Size & Travel Bag - White Marble Mini Hair Styling Tools. 155. 100+ bought in past month. $5495 ($54.95/Count) List: $79.95. FREE delivery Wed, Jan 17. Or fastest delivery Tue, Jan 16.

  7. The Ultimate Guide to Hair while Traveling

    Choose Essential Styling Tools . Don't pack all your styling tools into your suitcase and never pack a full-size hair brush. Call your accommodation in advance to see if they offer a blow dryer. If not, look for a foldable travel hair dryer. Don't forget about a mini brush and mini comb.

  8. 13 Best Hair Styling Tools of 2024, Tested & Stylist-Backed

    Best Flat Iron: Revlon Salon Straight 1" Flat Iron at Amazon ($27) Jump to Review. Best Blow Dryer: Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultra Light Pro Dryer at Dermstore ($349) Jump to Review. Best Curling Wand: Conair Infiniti PRO Curling Wand at Amazon ($23) Jump to Review.

  9. What's the Best Travel Curling Iron? See Our Top 5 Picks

    L'ANGE HAIR Le Duo 360° Airflow Styler. This 2-in-1 curling and straightening tool is one of the best travel curling iron tools out there. Check Price. VAV 2in1 Mini Travel Hair Curling Iron. It's an easy-to-carry mini curling iron that heats up quickly and creates smooth, shiny curls in seconds.

  10. The 9 Best Travel Hair Dryers of 2024

    Best for curly hair: Shark HyperAir HD113BRN - See at Amazon. Best foldable: Drybar Baby Buttercup Blow-Dryer - See at Amazon. Most compact: LURA Mini Portable Travel Hair Dryer - See at Amazon ...

  11. Amazon.com: Travel Hair Tools

    FoxyBae Travel Hair Tools - Includes 1" Mini Flat Iron, 0.75" Travel Curling Iron Mini, Mini Blow Dryer Travel Size & Travel Bag - White Marble Mini Hair Styling Tools ... 125V Travel Size Hair Styling Tools Hot Air Brush with 3 Temperature Settings & Titanium Barrel, Frizz-Free Results. 3.7 out of 5 stars. 138.

  12. 12 Best Travel Hair Dryers of 2024, Tested by Experts

    Conair Worldwide Travel Hair Dryer. This Conair dryer is both a Beauty Lab travel hairdryer test winner and a GH Beauty Awards winner. It blew away the competition as it dried standardized human ...

  13. Amazon.com: Travel Size Hair Tools

    Travel Hair Dryer Brush Blow Dryer Brush, 4 in 1 Styling Tools Travel Size Hot Air Brush 125Volt with Titanium Barrel & 3 Temperature Settings, Frizz-Free Results for All Hair Types. 94. 100+ bought in past month. $2799 ($27.99/Count)

  14. Travel Hair Styling Tools

    AmoVee 2 in 1 Mini Flat Iron Curling Iron Travel Hair Straightener. WHAT IT DOES: No need to pack two tools. This do-it-all iron allows you to switch from straight to curl with the push of a button. WHY YOU NEED IT: This little guy packs a punch so powerful, it just might replace your regular styling tools altogether.

  15. How to Pack Every Hair Tool to Travel Abroad

    T3. Singlepass Curl 0.75" Professional Curling Iron. $170. SHOP NOW. T3 makes some of the best hair tools in the game, so it's reassuring that you can also take them with you abroad. This iron is equipped with something called Auto World voltage, which means that it works on 100V to 240V.

  16. Best Mini Compact Hair Styling Tools For Travel

    These tried and true compact hair tools are designed to function as your on-the-go hair ally, without compromising performance or quality. Best Mini Compact Hair Styling Tools For Travel ...

  17. 15 Hair Styling Tools Every Beauty Lover Needs

    Harry Josh Pro Tools Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultra Light Pro Dryer 3 piece. This blow dryer may be light in weight, but it packs a powerful punch. Designed by the hair pro himself, the Harry Josh ...

  18. Travel Size Styling Tools

    Travel Size Styling Tools Tools & Brushes Explore Tools & Brushes Travel Size Styling Tools 12 Results ... Dual Voltage Ionic Travel Hair Dryer. $29.99 In-store Pickup 235. Add to Bag Save ion. Titanium Ceramic Travel Gator Iron 1 Inch. $29.99 In-store Pickup 183. Add to Bag Save

  19. Travel Hair Styling Tools & Products| ghd® North America

    Travel Hair Tools & Products Travel Hair Tools & Products; TRAVEL HAIR TOOLS & PRODUCTS. Enjoy good hair days on the go with styling tools and products ideal for your next adventure. sort by . GHD UNPLUGGED STYLER - CORDLESS FLAT IRON . $100 OFF AWARD WINNER . USD $299.00. USD $199.00. GHD UNPLUGGED STYLER - CORDLESS FLAT IRON ...

  20. 8 best hair diffusers for travel of 2024, according to experts

    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.

  21. The 20 Best Hair Tools for Every Styling Need

    Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Complete Long. $599 at Sephora. Pros. Multiple attachments to style hair straight, wavy, or curly. Cons. Unique design takes getting used to. The price tag may be eye ...

  22. Travel Hair Products

    Travel Eva NYC travel size hair care products and styling tools are perfect for any touch-ups while you're on-the-go. //TODO: insert product loop, pagination for noscript.

  23. FoxyBae Travel Hair Tools

    This item FoxyBae Travel Hair Tools - Includes 1" Mini Flat Iron, 0.75" Travel Curling Iron Mini, Dual Voltage Mini Blow Dryer & Travel Bag - Rose Gold Mini Hair Styling Tools FoxyBae White Marble Rose Gold Flat Iron - Ceramic Tourmaline Technology - Hair Straightener with Negative Ions - Straightens & Curls Hair - Professional Salon ...

  24. Shark PEOPLE Exclusive Flash Sale Deals

    "I have purchased and tried almost every hair styling tool on the market," a separate reviewer wrote on the brand's website. ... Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System Ultimate Travel ...

  25. The Best Budget-Friendly Hair Styling Tools Under $100

    The 13mm tong comes with it's own travel pouch and can be used to create smooth, silky styles with the same ease as a full-sized hair tool. $49 at Oz Hair & Beauty. Image credit: Getty. What's ...

  26. Béis Luggage Review 2024: Does It Live up to the Hype?

    Enter Béis, actress Shay Mitchell's travel brand touted as one of the Internet's favorite places to shop functional and stylish suitcases — at equally attractive prices.