Top Rated Travel Blow Dryers are essential companions for any traveler looking to maintain their hairstyle on the go. TRAVELS.EDU.VN understands the importance of having reliable and effective hair styling tools while traveling, so we provide expert recommendations and resources to help you choose the perfect travel blow dryer. With the right travel blow dryer, you can enjoy salon-quality results wherever your adventures take you, ensuring you always look and feel your best.
1. Why Trust TRAVELS.EDU.VN for Travel Blow Dryer Recommendations?
TRAVELS.EDU.VN is your trusted source for expert travel advice, offering comprehensive guides and recommendations to enhance your travel experiences. Our team of travel experts understands the importance of reliable and effective hair styling tools while on the go. We conduct thorough research and testing to provide you with the best recommendations for top rated travel blow dryers that meet your specific needs. Our expertise ensures you find the perfect travel blow dryer to maintain your hairstyle while traveling, so you always look and feel your best.
1.1 Pack Hacker’s Staff Photo Insights
Many of us at Pack Hacker rock long hair, requiring more time and effort to dry than short locks. We’ve been intimately familiar with blow dryers and the struggles of using unfamiliar tools to achieve the desired look for decades.
Wind blown hair
1.2 Extensive Research for Hair Dryer Recommendations
We put in hours of research to find the best travel hair dryer for thick hair, waves, and curls, as well as ones that add volume to thin hair and tame humidity-induced frizz. Along the way, we found more than a half-dozen options that would be good travel companions for any trip.
1.3 Testing in Cramped Conditions
We tested them on different hair types in tiny bathrooms with little counter space (not because that’s how we like to live but to simulate the cramped conditions of a hotel or cruise ship bathroom, dear reader! You’re welcome!). We let the strengths and weaknesses of each dryer shine through without fancy tools, focusing on packability and how fast each dryer got the job done.
2. What Key Features Define the Best Travel Hair Dryers?
The best travel hair dryers combine portability, power, and versatility to meet the diverse needs of travelers. Dual voltage capability is essential for international travel, allowing you to use the dryer in different countries without a converter. Compact and lightweight designs make them easy to pack without adding significant weight or bulk to your luggage. Multiple heat and speed settings provide customized styling options for various hair types and styles. Additional features like ionic technology and included attachments such as diffusers and concentrators enhance performance and versatility.
2.1 Drying Time Efficiency
In testing the eight travel hair dryers on this list, we focused on a few things, beginning with how long it takes to dry a head of medium-length hair. We used testers with thin and thick hair since knowing that it only takes five minutes to dry won’t do you much good if you have locks that would make Rapunzel proud. For each travel hair dryer, we started with a head of shower-damp hair that had been squeezed out and patted with a towel, then clicked go on our stopwatch. In the description of each product, you’ll find how many minutes it took to dry a specific type of hair so you can choose which is best for you.
2.2 Temperature Measurement
Secondly, we measured the temperature of the air coming out of the blow dryer. Holding a thermometer just an inch away from the nozzle, we turned each dryer on high and held it in place until the thermometer stopped creeping upward. The temps we indicate in each section below are the maximum readings; in most cases, the dryer dipped significantly after reaching that top temp and continued to cycle up and down while running. That’s good because you probably shouldn’t leave a 200-degree blower pointed at your hair for very long if you don’t want to fry your hair!
Best Travel Hair Dryer Picks Thermometer
2.3 Folded Size Measurements
We also measured the travel hair dryers when folded up, including their cords, since the dimensions you see on product pages are sometimes confusing or, at worst, deceiving. Even the best travel hair dryer won’t do you much good if it doesn’t fit in your bag!
3. What Are Some of the Top Rated Travel Blow Dryers Available?
Here are some of the top rated travel blow dryers available that combine portability, power, and versatility:
3.1 Conair Worldwide Travel Dryer
The Conair Worldwide Travel Dryer is a top choice for international travelers due to its automatic dual voltage feature. It automatically detects the voltage and switches accordingly, eliminating the need for manual adjustments. The dryer includes a concentrator attachment for focused airflow and has multiple heat and speed settings. Its folding handle makes it compact and easy to pack, ensuring convenience for travel.
3.1.1 Best For Dual-Voltage Use
You can’t just take your trusty hair dryer from home if you’re traveling abroad, even if it would fit in your suitcase. Instead, you’ll need a travel hair dryer with dual-voltage capabilities to switch between 110-125 in the U.S. and 220-250 in Europe.
3.1.2 Automatic Voltage Switching
While there are many options, we like the Conair Worldwide Travel Dryer because we don’t have to remember to make the switch before we plug it in. This travel hair dryer detects the voltage where you are and switches automatically, with a green LED indicator readout for 125V or a blue 240V for European outlets lighting up on the side of the dryer, depending on where you are.
3.1.3 Performance Insights
We put it to use on a head of thinner, mid-back length hair, and all told, it took about seven minutes to dry. The Worldwide Travel Dryer hit a top temp of 172 F (77.77 C) and has pretty good airflow, so we don’t feel as if it’s whispering to us from across the room but actually trying to blow your hair dry.
Conair Worldwide Travel Dryer
3.1.4 Additional Features
It includes a concentrator to help you aim the airflow where you want it to go, and it makes a good connection when it clicks into place. However, we get a smooth do even without it, so you may want to leave it at home to save space. Speaking of which, the nozzle on this dryer folds to lay against the handle, saving 3 inches of space in your bag, which is nice since it’s one of the larger travel hair dryers on this list. On the other hand, it’s comfortable to hold.
3.1.4.1 Pros
- The dryer detects the type of plug you’re using and switches voltage automatically
- It has three heat settings and two speed settings
3.1.4.2 Cons
- The nozzle stays warm for some time after turning it off
- Even though the voltage adjusts automatically, you’ll need a travel adapter to plug it into European outlets
3.2 BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer
The BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer is known for its compact size and powerful performance. Its nano titanium technology provides even heat distribution, reducing heat damage and promoting healthy-looking hair. It is dual voltage and includes a concentrator attachment for precise styling. The folding handle makes it easy to pack, making it a favorite among travelers who prioritize efficiency and performance.
3.2.1 Best For International Travel
If you need to cut weight because you’re hopping across Europe on budget airlines or filling a duffle bag to hit the gym after work, you’ll probably want to bring a tiny blow dryer that packs a real punch. Many international travelers recommend the Nano Titanium Travel Dryer from BaBylissPRO because it’s easy to switch the voltage between U.S. and European voltage with the tab on the front and because this baby won’t take up much room in your travel backpack. It’s one of the smallest hair dryers we got our hands on, even before you fold it!
3.2.2 High-Temperature Performance
However, while the ideal hair drying temperature is somewhere around 125 F and 150 F (51.66 C-65.55 C), the Nano Titanium skyrocketed up to 200 F (93.33 C)! It didn’t stay there for long and dropped to a temperature closer to 180 F (82.22 C) for most of our test, but it did feel extremely hot on our tester’s head and ears. On the other hand, it dried her thick, below-shoulder-length hair in six minutes, which is faster than the non-travel dryer she uses regularly. And there is a low-speed option for a less intense blast of air, though there’s no specific heat setting. It includes a concentrator to pop onto the end, but it almost feels too big for the nozzle and is very loose.
BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer
3.2.3 Considerations for Hair Health
An extra hot hair dryer can damage hair over time, causing breakage, split ends, and dryness, so we think this is a travel hair dryer best used for a few days or a week at a time, not full-time.
3.2.4 Quick Drying Capabilities
However, the high heat and powerful airflow make it one of the best travel hair dryers for getting ready quickly. So, if you’re in a rush, this may be the one for you.
3.2.4.1 Pros
- It’s super small and lightweight, yet powerful
- It gives off more heat than nearly any other blow dryer we’ve tried
3.2.4.2 Cons
- You may want to leave the concentrator behind, as it doesn’t stay well on the end of the nozzle
- The folded-up cord is almost as big as the rest of the hair dryer
3.3 Revlon Travel Hair Dryer
The Revlon Travel Hair Dryer offers the comfort and performance of a traditional hair dryer in a compact, travel-friendly design. Its ceramic coating helps reduce frizz and promote smooth, shiny hair. The folding handle and included concentrator make it easy to pack and use on the go. While it may not be dual voltage, its powerful airflow and ergonomic design make it a reliable choice for domestic travel.
3.3.1 Best For Packable Foldability
Some of us are very committed to a certain hand feel from our hair dryer and don’t want to make sacrifices for travel. The Revlon Travel Hair Dryer feels a lot like a traditional model, but its nozzle can fold down to take up less space in your luggage.
3.3.2 Ergonomic Design
Unfolded, it has great ergonomics and a cord with good reach, and is just as powerful as our everyday model, too.
Revlon Travel Hair Dryer
3.3.3 Performance and Features
It comes with a concentrator that locks into place nicely, yet is easy to remove and leave behind if you don’t need it, and reached a top temp of 175 F (79.44 C) in our temperature test. That dried our thin-haired tester’s hair in five minutes, flat, which is about how long a traditional dryer takes.
3.3.4 Toggle Switch Concerns
While the handle is nice to hold, we wish we had the same great things to say about the toggle switch to turn it to low, high, or off. It’s hard to use and often skips right past off in the center to low or high instead. Luckily, we only blew the tissue box off the ledge and not something more breakable, but it’s something to keep in mind. While it probably gets easier with practice, this isn’t necessarily the blow dryer you’ll use daily, so that practice may take some time.
3.3.4.1 Pros
- You get all the comforts of a traditional hair dryer with a folding design
- The ceramic coating inside is good for reducing frizz
3.3.4.2 Cons
- We’ve heard reports that the dual-voltage function isn’t always reliable, so this may not be the best travel hair dryer for Europe
- The nozzle remains hot for quite a while after use, so you won’t want to repack it right away
3.4 BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Bambino Compact Dryer
The BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Bambino Compact Dryer is a favorite among salon specialists for its small size and powerful airflow. Its nano titanium technology ensures even heat distribution, minimizing heat damage and promoting healthy-looking hair. While it doesn’t fold, its compact design makes it easy to pack. With dual voltage capability, it is suitable for international travel, providing reliable performance wherever you go.
3.4.1 Best For Lightweight Travel
When looking for the best travel hair dryer, who do you ask? Salon specialists, of course! Several of them recommend the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Bambino Compact Dryer, which is quite small, as any Italian grandma would tell you the name suggests.
3.4.2 Design and Durability
It’s the same size as the Nano Titanium Travel Dryer; it just doesn’t fold. Frankly, when a blow dryer gets this tiny, we can do without the folding mechanism, and we think that may be why it’s so long-lasting. You don’t have to worry about wires kinking over time if they’re not stressed each time you pack your bag, and it’s OK to take it to Europe because it has a dual-voltage setting.
BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Bambino Compact Dryer
3.4.3 Performance and Comfort
Regardless of why users haven’t had issues with its longevity, we like its powerful airflow. It, combined with a top temperature of 178 F (81.11 C), dried a head of thick hair in eight minutes. It lacks any temperature settings and just toggles between low and high speeds, but it’s pretty comfortable to hold, with indentations where your fingers can rest, so we don’t have any issue with cramping hands, even though it’s so tiny. This compact hair dryer is also a great choice for bathrooms that lack storage space.
3.4.3.1 Pros
- It’s recommended by hair stylists
- Unlike other models that break quickly, this one has worked for a long time
3.4.3.2 Cons
- It doesn’t fold but is still one of the smallest travel hair dryers we’ve found
- You’ll want to keep it moving while you dry your hair to keep your head from getting too warm
3.5 Wavytalk Portable Hair Dryer
The Wavytalk Portable Hair Dryer is specifically designed for curly hair, featuring a diffuser attachment that enhances curls and reduces frizz. It also includes a concentrator for versatile styling options. While not dual voltage, its compact size and specialized attachments make it a valuable tool for travelers with curly hair who want to maintain their natural texture on the go.
3.5.1 Best For Curly Hair
Curly girls (and guys) have different needs than their straight-haired friends, but it’s not always easy to find a travel hair dryer capable of handling that type of hair. The Waveytalk Portable Hair Dryer comes with a large diffuser and a small concentrator, so you can bring one hair dryer to share among everyone in your group, no matter what type of hair they have.
3.5.2 Drying Performance
It isn’t the most powerful dryer we tested, and it took our tester with thin, wavy hair about nine and a half minutes to dry her entire head using the diffuser. Wavytalk claims it has five-minute rapid drying, but we think that’s only true for concentrated air on thinner hair.
Wavytalk Portable Hair Dryer
3.5.3 Diffuser Attachment
We got this hair dryer for the diffuser, though, and that attachment works well, as long as you’re careful to direct your hair into its wide opening. However, this travel hair dryer has a short nozzle for packability, and if your longer hair falls along the side, it can get caught in the back of the dryer (ouch!). It’s pretty easy to avoid once you recognize the issue, though, so we’re telling you here!
3.5.4 Temperature and Voltage Considerations
This travel hair dryer reached a high temp of 160 F (71.11 C) according to our thermometer, so it will take a little extra time to dry your tresses, especially while using the diffuser. But if that’s the tool you need to look your best while traveling, we think the extra few minutes are worth it. Just be aware that this is not a dual-voltage device, so you’ll have to pass on this if you want to take your curly hair to Paris or Rome (or bring a travel adapter that converts voltage).
3.5.4.1 Pros
- It comes with a diffuser for drying curly or wavy hair
- There’s an included drawstring pouch to help you keep the attachments and the dryer together in your bag
3.5.4.2 Cons
- The concentrator is surprisingly hard to remove without some sort of extra grip, yet the diffuser pops off easily
- Longer hair can get sucked into the back of the dryer if you’re not careful to direct it toward the diffuser
3.6 Conair Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer
The Conair Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer is an excellent budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on performance. It is dual voltage, making it suitable for international travel, and its compact folding design ensures easy packing. Despite its low price, it offers multiple heat and speed settings, providing customizable styling options for various hair types.
3.6.1 Best For Budget Buy
Would you believe us if we said that you could get one of the best travel hair dryers we’ve had our hands on for less than $20? Well, you’d better because the Conair Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer retails for less than $17 at the time of writing, yet does a great job of drying hair. Whether you fold it or not, it’s easy to pack for nearly any trip and has dual-voltage capabilities for travel to Europe. Just be sure to turn the switch on the front before you turn it on, and bring your own travel adapter—it still has a standard U.S. plug.
3.6.2 Performance and Ergonomics
This travel hair dryer reaches a top temp of 180 F (82.22 C) and got our tester’s thin hair dry in five and a half minutes, which isn’t bad at all. It doesn’t feel too hot on your head, either. Plus, we can get a little extra volume along with a silky smooth finish with a simple round bristle brush—no extra gels, creams, or fancy tools. Along with functioning just as well as models twice its size, the small handle feels great to hold. It’s not super skinny and is ergonomically shaped, just like our favorite hair dryer back home.
Conair Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer
3.6.2.1 Pros
- It’s super small and lightweight, so it’s comfortable to hold even with weak hands or wrists
- This dryer feels very powerful for its size
3.6.2.2 Cons
- You don’t really save a ton of space by folding it; it’s more that the dimensions are reallocated
- It’s as loud as a full-size dryer
3.7 Panasonic nanoe Compact Oscillating Quick-Dry Hair Dryer
The Panasonic nanoe Compact Oscillating Quick-Dry Hair Dryer offers premium features for a gentle and efficient drying experience. Its nanoe technology moisturizes hair while drying, reducing damage and enhancing shine. The oscillating nozzle eliminates hot spots and promotes even heat distribution. While not dual voltage, its advanced features and compact design make it a worthwhile investment for travelers seeking salon-quality results.
3.7.1 Best For Premium Features
We don’t always bring along attachments when traveling with a hair dryer, but you may want to squeeze the nifty oscillating nozzle on the Panasonic nanoe into your travel backpack or toiletry bag.
3.7.2 Oscillating Nozzle Technology
Instead of having to wave your hand back and forth over your head, this nifty nozzle with built-in fins does it for you. We find that you have to have the fins running vertically for the air to make them move properly, but once you do, it’s pretty amazing to use. However, while it’s not too loud for those around you, it can sound a little like a helicopter in your own ear—especially if you direct the air right at them. If that gets annoying, you can lock the fins into place or remove the attachment entirely.
Panasonic nanoe Compact Oscillating Quick-Dry Hair Dryer
3.7.3 Nanoe Technology Benefits
The nanoe™ technology reportedly takes moisture from the air to penetrate your hair shaft, which should combine with the oscillation for a gentler drying experience, but our thick-haired tester didn’t really feel a difference in her hair after using this travel hair dryer. It’s definitely less damaging simply because it only reaches a top temp of 147 F (63.88 C), yet it still dried a shower-damp head of hair in about eight minutes and 40 seconds. That may make it the best travel hair dryer to take if you’ll be traveling for some time because its size and shape are closer to standard blow dryers, but don’t bring it to Europe; it doesn’t include a dual-voltage switch.
3.7.3.1 Pros
- The oscillating nozzle is super unique and works well to eliminate hot spots
- It’s easy to remove the nozzle if you want to leave attachments behind
3.7.3.2 Cons
- If you turn the nozzle the wrong way, the oscillating feature won’t move properly
- The noise may make users feel like they’re standing next to a helicopter
3.8 Beurer HC25 Travel Ionic Hair Dryer
The Beurer HC25 Travel Ionic Hair Dryer is designed to reduce frizz and enhance shine, making it an excellent choice for travelers with frizzy hair. Its ionic technology seals the hair cuticles, promoting smooth, healthy-looking hair. It is dual voltage for international use and includes a concentrator attachment for focused styling.
3.8.1 Best For Frizzy Hair
If you have hair that frizzes in humidity, you’ll want to pick a travel hair dryer that can try to smooth it out. Blow dryers with ionic technology, like the Beurer Travel Ionic Hair Dryer, seal the cuticles to reduce frizz and enhance your hair’s shine.
3.8.2 Performance and Observations
Our tester’s thick hair definitely looks sleek and shiny after using this hair dryer, although it took about eight minutes to dry her whole head. We were actually surprised to see the number on the stopwatch wasn’t higher, though, because the dryer only hits a top temp of 150F (10C) and doesn’t seem to blow that strongly.
Beurer Travel Ionic Hair Dryer
3.8.3 International Travel and Features
You can add this to your vacation packing list if you’re looking for the best hair dryer for international travel because it has a voltage switch. You’ll have to use your own travel adapter to plug it in, though that’s the case with most dual-voltage hair dryers. You’ll also want to ensure everyone in your room is awake before turning it on because it’s rather loud, especially for how lightly it blows.
3.8.3.1 Pros
- The concentrator is easy to remove if you don’t need it
- There’s a loop on the handle where you can hang it
3.8.3.2 Cons
- It only has two speed settings, with no option for low and high temperatures
- After about five minutes of use, it started to feel very hot
4. How Can You Choose the Best Travel Blow Dryer for Your Needs?
Choosing the best travel blow dryer depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as hair type, travel destination, and desired styling features. If you travel internationally, prioritize dual voltage capability. If you have curly hair, look for a dryer with a diffuser attachment. If you have frizzy hair, consider a dryer with ionic technology. Ultimately, the best travel blow dryer is one that meets your needs and helps you maintain your hairstyle while on the go.
5. Why Is Dual Voltage Important in a Travel Blow Dryer?
Dual voltage is crucial in a travel blow dryer because it allows you to use the dryer safely and effectively in different countries with varying voltage standards. In the United States, the standard voltage is 110-120V, while in many European countries, it is 220-240V. Using a single voltage appliance in a country with a different voltage can damage the appliance or pose a safety risk. Dual voltage travel blow dryers can switch between these voltage standards, ensuring compatibility and preventing damage.
6. What Are the Benefits of Ionic Technology in Travel Blow Dryers?
Ionic technology in travel blow dryers offers several benefits for hair health and styling. Ionic dryers emit negative ions that neutralize positive ions in the hair, reducing static electricity and frizz. This results in smoother, shinier hair with enhanced manageability. Ionic technology also helps to seal the hair cuticle, preventing moisture loss and reducing heat damage.
7. How Do Travel Blow Dryers Differ from Regular Hair Dryers?
Travel blow dryers differ from regular hair dryers primarily in size and portability. Travel dryers are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them easy to pack in luggage. They often have folding handles to further reduce their size. While some travel dryers may have slightly lower power than regular dryers, many models offer comparable performance with features like multiple heat and speed settings.
8. Are Attachments Like Diffusers and Concentrators Necessary for Travel Blow Dryers?
Attachments like diffusers and concentrators can enhance the versatility of travel blow dryers, depending on your hair type and styling needs. Diffusers are ideal for curly hair, as they distribute airflow evenly to enhance curls and reduce frizz. Concentrators focus airflow for precise styling, making them suitable for straight and smooth styles. While not essential, these attachments can be valuable tools for achieving your desired hairstyle while traveling.
9. How Can You Properly Pack a Travel Blow Dryer to Protect It in Your Luggage?
To properly pack a travel blow dryer and protect it in your luggage, follow these tips:
- Use a Protective Case: If possible, pack the dryer in its original box or a padded case to protect it from impact.
- Wrap It Securely: If you don’t have a case, wrap the dryer in a soft cloth or bubble wrap to prevent scratches and damage.
- Position It Carefully: Place the dryer in the center of your luggage, surrounded by soft items like clothing, to cushion it during transit.
- Secure the Cord: Wind the cord neatly and secure it with a cable tie or rubber band to prevent tangling and damage.
- Avoid Overpacking: Make sure the dryer isn’t squeezed or crushed by other items in your luggage.
10. What Safety Precautions Should You Take When Using a Travel Blow Dryer?
When using a travel blow dryer, take these safety precautions:
- Check the Voltage: If traveling internationally, ensure the dryer is dual voltage or use a voltage converter to match the local voltage.
- Keep Away from Water: Never use the dryer near water or in a damp environment to prevent electric shock.
- Avoid Blocking Airflow: Ensure the air vents are not blocked during use to prevent overheating.
- Unplug After Use: Always unplug the dryer after use and allow it to cool down before storing it.
- Inspect for Damage: Before each use, inspect the dryer for any signs of damage, such as frayed cords or cracked housing, and discontinue use if any damage is found.
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