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

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

travel hair blow dryer

In This Article

  • Our Top Picks
  • Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

  • Tips for Buying
  • Why Trust T+L

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

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

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

Best Overall

T3 afar travel size hair dryer.

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

It doesn’t include a diffuser. 

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

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

The Details: 3 heat settings | 2 speed settings | 12.2 ounces | 1500 watts | 9-foot cord | Folding handle | Includes travel pouch

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best Budget

Revlon airflow control dryer.

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

It works best on thin and fine hair types.

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

The Details: 3 heat settings | 2 speed settings | 2.07 pounds | 3.6 x 11.1 x 9 inches | 1875 watts | 6-foot cord

Best for Frizz

Bondiboost sonic dryer.

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

The attachments can be difficult to remove.

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

The Details: 4 heat settings | 3 speed settings | 12.32 ounces | 8-foot cord

Best Airflow

Tymo highspeed hair dryer.

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

The power button is a bit tricky to use.

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

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

Best Foldable

Sri dryq hair dryer.

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

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

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

The Details: 4 heat settings | 3 speed settings | 11.8 ounces | 8.2 x 8.7 inches | 1300 watts | 6.5-foot cord | Folding handle

Best Accessories

Olivia garden high performance professional hair dryer.

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

The attachments were a bit difficult to remove.

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

The Details: 3 heat settings | 3 speed settings | 13 ounces | 11.8 x 11.8 x 5.9 inches | 1875 watts | 9-foot cord

Best Blow Dry Brush

Drybar 3-in-1 interchangeable blow dryer.

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

It's not the best for curling hair.

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

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

Other Travel Hair Dryers We Liked

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

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

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

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

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

Tips for Buying a Travel Hair Dryer

Pay attention to size and weight.

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

Make sure it works for your hair type

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

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

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

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

Dare we say they'll blow you away?

travel hair blow dryer

In This Article

  • Our Top Picks
  • What To Look For
  • Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie / Reese Herrington

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

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

Best Overall

T3 afar travel size hair dryer.

Bloomingdale's

Very powerful motor and airflow

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

Doesn’t come with any attachments

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

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

Who It’s For

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

Best Budget

Conair minipro.

Lightweight

Handle folds up

Emits a strong airflow

Can overheat

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

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

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

Best Foldable

Stylecraft peewee travel dryer.

Helps smooth hair

Folds into compact size

Quality could be better

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

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

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

Best Dual Voltage

Babylisspro nano titanium travel dryer.

Small, compact size

Includes extra accessories

Only one heat setting

Cord doesn’t retract

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

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

Who It’s For 

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

Best for Fast Drying

7magic fast-drying hair dryer.

Dries hair incredibly fast

Has three temperature settings

Ionic technology protects hair from heat damage

No dual voltage

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

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

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

Best for Curly Hair

Revlon airflow control dryer.

Comes with both a concentrator and a diffuser

Has ceramic tourmaline technology to fight frizz

Can be hard to pop on diffuser

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

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

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

Best Lightweight

L'ange le styliste luxe digital salon dryer.

Slim and sleek design

Comes with three magnetic attachments

Airflow could be stronger

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

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

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

TYMO HighSpeed Hair Dryer

Extremely quiet

Sleek and streamlined design

Auto-cleaning feature

Button placement isn’t particularly convenient

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

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

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

What to Look For in a Travel Hair Dryer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

travel hair blow dryer

In This Article

  • Our Top Picks

What to Keep in Mind

Your questions, answered, why shop with us.

InStyle / Brian Kopinski

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

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

Best Overall

Chi 1875 series advanced ionic compact hair dryer.

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

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

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

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

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

Best Budget

Lura mini portable travel hair dryer.

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

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

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

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

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

Best with Folding Handle

T3 afar travel dryer.

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

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

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

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

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

Best for Long Hair

Mane this totally blows ionic compact hair dryer.

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

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

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

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

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

Best Dual Voltage

Ghd flight+ travel hair dryer.

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

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

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

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

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

Best for International Travel

Babylisspro nano titanium travel dryer.

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

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

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

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

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

Best Lightweight

Drybar baby buttercup blow dryer.

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

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

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

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

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

Most Powerful

Jinri 1875w dual voltage travel hair dryer.

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

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

Eva NYC Mini Dryer + Bag

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

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

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

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

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

Best for Damaged Hair

Berta hair dryer.

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

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

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

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

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

Best Blow Dryer Brush

Plavogue hair dryer brush.

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

What We Don’t Love: It’s loud.

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

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

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

Best for Frizzy Hair

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best with Diffuser

Ohjump hair dryer.

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

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

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

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

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

Best for Curly Hair

Hot tools compact hair dryer.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Are travel hair dryers different from regular hair dryers?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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13 Best Travel Hair Dryers, Tested by Hairstylists

travel hair blow dryer

By Brigitt Earley

best travel hair dryers  collage of hair dryers on a background

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

Our top picks:

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

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

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

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

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

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

GHD Flight+ Travel Hair Dryer

Compact black hair dryer on a white background

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

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

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

T3 Fit Compact Professional Hair Dryer

T3 Fit Compact Professional Hair Dryer

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

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

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

BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer

BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer

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

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

Drybar Baby Buttercup Travel-Size Blow-Dryer

Drybar Baby Buttercup Travel Size Blow Dryer

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

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

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

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

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

Infinitipro Conair Travel Hair Dryer

Infinitipro Conair Travel Hair Dryer

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

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

Revlon Compact Hair Dryer

Revlon Compact Hair Dryer

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

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

Le Styliste Luxe Digital Salon Dryer

Le Styliste Luxe Digital Salon Dryer

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

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

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

Mermade Hair Compact Hair Dryer

Mermade Hair Compact Hair Dryer

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

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

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Hot Tools Pro Artist Ionic Compact Hair Dryer

Hot Tools Pro Artist Ionic Compact Hair Dryer

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

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

Lura Mini Portable Travel Hair Dryer

Lura Mini Portable Travel Hair Dryer

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

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

Revlon One Step Volumizer Plus 2.0

Revlon One Step Volumizer Plus 2.0

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

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

Curlsmith De-Frizzion Travel Dryer

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

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

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

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

By Meaghan Kenny

Image may contain Appliance Blow Dryer Device and Electrical Device

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

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

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

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Image may contain Appliance Blow Dryer Device and Electrical Device

Dry Bar Baby Buttercup travel blow dryer

Best for international travel

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

Weight : 13 ounces

Image may contain Appliance Device Electrical Device and Blow Dryer

Conair travel hair dryer

Best compact hair dryer

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

Weight : 1 pound

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Mane This Totally Blows! Ionic compact hair dryer

Best frizz-free hair dryer

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

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Gama Professional IQ3 hair dryer

Best professional hair dryer

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

Weight : 10 ounces

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T3 Afar lightweight hair dryer

Best lightweight hair dryer

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

Weight : 12.2 ounces

travel hair blow dryer

Shark FlexStyle Air Drying and Styling System

Best fast-drying tool

Last year I tested the Shark FlexStyle to see how it compared to the viral $600 Dyson Airwrap Complete . There was no question that when it came to dry time, the Shark FlexStyle reigns supreme. The half-the-price alternative was the best hair dryer I've ever tried—drying my very long hair in under 10 minutes with a shiny finish every time. And now, I find myself packing the Shark FlexStyle whenever I'm traveling within the US (it's not compatible with international voltage). I leave its many attachments at home and only bring the slim Styling Concentrator, which helps control where exactly I want to dry. The best part is that the multi-styler can be twisted into an L shape that resembles a classic hair dryer, making it easier to hold and use. When it's time to pack it away, I simply twist the hair tool back into its original shape so it takes up much less suitcase room.

Weight : 1.5 pounds

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Revlon compact hair dryer

Best affordable hair dryer

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

Weight: 1.18 pounds

travel hair blow dryer

12 Best Travel Hair Dryers to Take on Your Next Vacation

Dry hair in a flash.

best travel hairdryers

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

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

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

Top picks for the best hair dryers in 2024

Fit Compact Hair Dryer

Best for Shiny Hair

T3 fit compact hair dryer.

Nano Titanium Travel Dryer

Best Compact

Babylisspro nano titanium travel dryer.

Supersonic Hair Dryer

Most Versatile

Dyson supersonic hair dryer.

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

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

Wattage: 1600 watts

Ulta rating: 4.2/5 stars

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

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

Wattage: 1000 watts

Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars

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

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

Wattage: 1,600 watts

Ulta rating: 4.6/5 stars

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

Trademark Beauty Speedy Blo Powerful and Lightweight Blow Dryer

Speedy Blo Powerful and Lightweight Blow Dryer

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

Wattage: 1875 watts

Trademark Beauty rating: 5/5 stars

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

Harry Josh Pro Tools Women’s Pro Dryer 2000

Women’s Pro Dryer 2000

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

Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars

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

L'ange Le Styliste Luxe Digital Salon Dryer

Le Styliste Luxe Digital Salon Dryer

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

Wattage: 1500 watts

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

Ghd Flight+ Travel Hair Dryer

Flight+ Travel Hair Dryer

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

Wattage: 1300 watts

Ghd rating: 4.6/5 stars

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

Conair INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Travel Hair Dryer

INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Travel Hair Dryer

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

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

Drybar Baby Buttercup Travel Blow-Dryer

Baby Buttercup Travel Blow-Dryer

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

Wattage: 1200 watts

Amazon rating: 4/5 stars

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

REVLON 1875W Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer

1875W Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer

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

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

Julien Farel Blowdryer 1875 Watt

Blowdryer 1875 Watt

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

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

FHI Heat Innovator The Pro Power Speed Dryer

Innovator The Pro Power Speed Dryer

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

Wattage: 1700 watts

FHI Heat rating: 5/5 stars

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

Meet the Experts

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

Jenna Spino is a stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago

Olya Iudina a stylist at IGK NYC.

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

What should you avoid in a travel hair dryer?

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

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

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

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

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

Why trust ELLE Beauty?

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

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

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

best travel hair dryers

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

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

Best travel hair dryer

BaByliss Travel Hair Dryer

BaByliss Travel Hair Dryer

Remington On the Go 2000W Compact Dryer

Best for curly hair

Remington on the go 2000w compact dryer.

GHD Flight Travel Hair Dryer

Best for design

Ghd flight travel hair dryer.

Vo5 On the Go Mini Hair Dryer

Best compact travel hair dryer

Vo5 on the go mini hair dryer.

InStyler Mini Travel Dryer

Best lightweight travel hair dryer

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

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

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

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

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

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

How we test

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

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

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

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

Score: 81/100

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

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

Key specifications

Score: 80/100

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

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

Score: 79/100

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

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

Score: 78/100

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

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

Score: 70/100

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

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

Headshot of Florence Reeves-White

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

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

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

Headshot of Maria Kumar

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

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

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

best travel hair dryers

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

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

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

Flight Travel Hair Dryer

Best Overall Travel Hair Dryer

Ghd flight travel hair dryer.

miniPRO Tourmaline Ceramic Travel Hair Dryer with Folding Handle

Best Budget Travel Hair Dryer

Conair minipro tourmaline ceramic travel hair dryer with folding handle.

Supersonic™ Hair Dryer

Best Luxury Travel Hair Dryer

Dyson supersonic™ hair dryer.

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

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

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

BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Travel Dryer

Nano Titanium Travel Dryer

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

Volo Beauty Go Cordless Hair Dryer

Go Cordless Hair Dryer

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

T3 Afar - Lightweight Travel Size Hair Dryer

Afar - Lightweight Travel Size Hair Dryer

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

Revlon 1875W Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer

1875W Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer

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

llano Lightweight Folding Ionic Hair Dryer

Lightweight Folding Ionic Hair Dryer

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

Plavogue Hair Dryer Brush

Hair Dryer Brush

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

Gama IQ Perfetto

IQ Perfetto

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

7Magic Fast-Drying Hair Dryer

Fast-Drying Hair Dryer

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

Drybar Baby Buttercup Travel Blow-Dryer

Baby Buttercup Travel Blow-Dryer

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

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

Miracle Mini Travel Professional Hair Dryer Kit

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

How we chose the best travel hair dryers

squiggle

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

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

faq squiggle

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

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

best brushes for fine hair

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

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

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

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What’s the Best Travel Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage? Our Top 10 Picks

Hair , TOILETRIES

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We’ve rounded up the best travel hair dryer options for local and international trips. From a quick blow dry to creating intense volume in a just few minutes, these all have dual voltage and can be used worldwide! Find out our top 10 picks!

Spoiler Alert: Can’t wait to find out our top two dual voltage travel hair dryers? These are the best two styles according to our readers (and we agree)!

  • BaByliss PRO Travel Hair Dryer
  • Hot Tools Travel Hair Dryer

Best Travel Hair Dryer

Table of contents.

Let’s face it: hotel hair dryers can end up damaging and frying our strands.

Who wants to have frizzed hair while on vacation? Since standard hair dryers are way too bulky to pack, there are a few ultra-compact and foldable styles that will keep your hair looking tussled and gorgeous when traveling.

Well styled hair adds the perfect finishing touches to your carefully planned travel outfit !

Best Hair Dryer for Travel

best-travel-hair-dryers

BaBylisspro Nano Titanium Travel Hair Dryer

BaBylissPRO Compact Hair Dryer

For smooth and frizz-free hair in a matter of minutes, the BaByliss PRO travel hair dryer uses millions of natural ions to eliminate static electricity. The very lightweight dual voltage dryer instantly dries hair with far-infrared heat while protecting it from damage.

The BaBylisspro Nano Titanium Travel Dryer gets our vote and the readers’ vote for the best travel hair dryer! It’s so lightweight, good quality, well-priced, foldable, and dual voltage. Buy it here!

best-travel-hair-dryers

Hot Tools Professional Pro Signature Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer

Hot Tools Professional Lightweight Travel Hair Dryer

For an ionic blowout, the sleek and compact Hot Tools Professional offers multiple settings and attachments for even heat distribution. The travel styling tool is 25% lighter than regular dryers but works just as well, making it easy and convenient to carry.

We can confidently say that this is our favorite folding travel hair dryer with a diffuser attachment. It’s also the one most recommended for curly haired travelers.

Hot Tools wins the top two spots in our list according to our readers. Plus, it’s the lightest! Buy it here!

Read this post on how to style curly hair when traveling !

best-travel-hair-dryers

Conair MiniPRO Tourmaline Ceramic Styler

Conair Ceramic Hair Dryer

A no-fuss salon professional hair dryer that creates silky smooth hair in seconds is the Conair MiniPRO Styler. This pink compact and quiet dryer includes two attachments to create versatile styles without the bulk. Buy it here!

best-travel-hair-dryers

T3 Micro Fit Ionic Compact Hair Dryer

T3 Micro Hair Dryer for Travel

A petite yet powerful blow dryer, the T3 Compact Hair Dryer features everything you need in a full-size dryer in an ultra-light body. The tourmaline plus ceramic technology creates smooth and shiny hair by sealing in the hair cuticle to retain natural moisture without using any mousse or serums. It includes a concentrator and 9 foot cord with a cord wrap.

The most luxurious option on our list, the T3 is the best travel hair dryer for female travelers who already use the larger size version of this brand. It’s also a more affordable version of the full size to use at home, not just abroad. Buy it here!

best-travel-hair-dryers

Conair Vagabond Compact 1600 Watt

Conair Travel Hair Dryer with Folding Handle

A compact blow dryer that doesn’t hold back the power, the Conair Vagabond Compact is a mini turbo folding hair dryer with two heat settings. Weighing 1.10 lbs, this teeny-tiny blue dryer is very budget friendly for thrifty travelers.

The Conair isn’t just wallet-friendly, it’s also the smallest travel hair dryer, too! Buy it here!

best-travel-hair-dryers

LURA Mini Portable Hairdryer with Folding Handle and Diffuser Attachment

LURA Mini Portable Travel Hair Dryer

A dainty dryer convenient to travel with and store away, the LURA hairdryer with folding handle offers a unique air outlet grill for concentrated air flow. Plus it comes with a European plug, diffuser, concentrate attachment and it’s own little travel bag It’s a must to include on our list of the best travel hair dryer. Buy it here!

best-travel-hair-dryers

Berta 1875W Folding Hair Dryer

Berta Foldable Travel Hair Dryer

With maximum conditioning for manageable hair, the Berta Folding Hair Dryer gives you a salon quality blowout in less time, making it one of the best travel hair dryer options. With two heat settings, negative ions seal in shine and provide less static during your vacation. Buy it here!

best-travel-hair-dryers

Revlon 1875W Compact Travel Hair Dryer

Revlon Compact Folding Handle Travel Hair Dryer

For an effortless blowout without the bulky blow dryer, the compact Revlon 1875W Compact Travel Hair Dryer  comes with triple ceramic and ionic technology for stunning waves and volume every time. It’s perfect for trips to humid climates, with its optimal heat and ceramic coating to prevent hair damage. Buy it here!

best-travel-hair-dryers

Drybar Baby Buttercup Travel Blow Dryer

Drybar Travel Blow Dryer

One of the lightest travel dryers on our list, the DRYBAR Baby Buttercup Dryer  weighs in at 0.81 lbs, and features a cool shot button and ionic technology to get rid of frizz and flyaways. It includes a compact travel bag, foldable design, 7 foot cord, and a concentrator to create a sleek, straight blowout.

As a plus, it was designed by the US-based Drybar – the premier innovative hair salon that specializes in blowouts – and nothing else. Personally, I love using their services when I’m in the US! Buy it here!

best-travel-hair-dryers

Conair 1875 Watt Compact Hair Dryer with Folding Handle

Conair Mini Travel Hair Dryer

This is another affordable travel dryer with features to make your hair goals last throughout your vacation. This Conair hair dryer features two heat and speed settings, dual voltage, and a cool shot button. The “twist it” folding handle makes it easy to hold and pack. Buy it here!

Remember to switch your hair tools to 220V/240V when you arrive to your destination! Read this post to learn about voltage vs adapters for hair tools .

Hair Dryer vs Blow Dryer?

The terms “hair dryer” and “blow dryer” mean the same thing – they are just words used by different countries. The terms are both referring to a hair tool that is used to dry your hair.

What is a dual voltage travel hair dryer?

A dual voltage travel hair dryer has two voltage options: 110-120V and 220-240V.  They are ideal for travel because they are safe to use at home and abroad, too.

Some electronics, such as newer Macbooks and iPhones have dual voltage that automatically adjust in their destination. However, other electronics such as hair tools you need to adjust the voltage manually by moving a switch.

Why do you need a dual voltage hair dryer for international travel?

Voltage refers to electricity; different countries have different types of electricity. This means that your electronics are the same voltage as the country in which you bought them so if you take them to another country, they may not work.

For example, in the US we use 110-120V whereas in Europe they use 220-240V. If we plug our electronics into each other’s outlets they can blow a fuse and stop working. In some cases, they can even fry your hair.

Visit  this  website for a full list of voltage by country.

Your blow dryer needs to have two things in order to work in other countries:

  • The correct voltage
  • A travel adapter

Hair tools such as blow dryers, wands, curling irons, and straighteners use up a large amount of electricity so it’s particularly important that they are used with the correct voltage.

Some hair tools are designed so they can be used in different countries. This means they’ll be labeled as “dual-voltage”.

A travel adapter enables you to plug your non dual-voltage electronics into international outlets. Not all countries use the same type of plug so I recommend you buy an international adapter like  this .

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

What’s the best travel hair dryer dual voltage?

All of the options listed in this post are compatible with international voltages to make it easier to take them anywhere in the world.

What’s the best travel hair dryer for Europe?

If you’re from the US and traveling to Europe, Asia, Africa, or the South Pacific including Australia and New Zealand then a dual voltage hair dryer is absolutely essential. If the one you use at home has the dual voltage feature then you can also use it on your travels, too.

Remember to switch your hair tools to 220V/240V when you arrive to your destination !

Visit  this website for a full list of voltage by country.

These compact and handy blow dryers will not only save space in your luggage but give you the best  hairstyles during your trip!

Do you have anything to add to our list of the best travel hair dryer? Comment below!

For more travel hair tools, please read: 

  • Best Travel Curling Iron
  • Best Hair Diffuser for Travel
  • Best Dual Voltage Travel Hair Straightener
  • Best Hair Dryer Brush for Travel With Dual Voltage

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16 comments.

Donna Hascup

I am wondering if you Have any recommendations for round brush travel blow dryer’s round brush dryer is a necessity for my thick coarse hair and though I’ve searched high and low I can’t seem to find one that’s dual voltage. Do you know if there are any available? Tried a few on Amazon and they’re cheap and awful. Or do you know if I can purchase one once I arrive in France? Thanks for any advice you can offer love your site

Alex

Hi Donna, thank you for reaching out and for your lovely message!!! ❤️ Many of our readers recommend the Phebe Mini Travel Curling Brush: https://amzn.to/2LQSnf0 or the Conair 2 in 1 hot brush: https://amzn.to/2Sdpcnj I would also highly suggest that you join our TFG facebook group and post any questions you have there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and recommendations to share. Hope this helps. Have an incredible trip to France! ?

Tracy Jackson

The babyBliss hair dryer lasted for 2 and 1/4 blow drys. 2 and 1/4. That’s a lot of money, figuring cost per use.

Hi Tracy, I am really sorry to hear about your disappointing experience with your baby bliss hair dryer 🙁

Eloisa

Hi! I have the BaByliss Tourmaline Titanium 1500 and I love how small and light it is. But for my hair I really need a diffuser or else it just looks puffy. Do you know if there is any diffuser out there that will fit it? Thanks!

Hi Eloisa, thank you for reaching out! We have just published a new article based on our readers’ recommendations for the best hair diffuser for travel: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-hair-diffuser/ Hope this answers your question! 🙂

Eileen

Definitely Karmin.

Hi Eileen, thank you for sharing your recommendation for how to style your hair for when traveling!! 🙂

Sydnie

I need a hair dryer that has buttons for high heat and VERY LOW blowing stream. Any thoughts?

Hi Sydnie, to get you the best feedback, I’m publishing your question on TFG’s facebook page. Our readers have the best tips, keep an eye out for their replies from Sat 21st. https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl Hope this helps! 🙂

laurie grundy

Need some help. I am reading the 10 best hair dryers however I have lots of fine hair that I wear in a spiky short (3”) style. I have to blow dry it or it’s totally flat around my face ???. Hotel hair dryers especially in Europe are dreadful. I have tried several hair dryers that have been disappointing. Hard to be fashionable no matter what you are wearing with bad hair. My question …. which dryer has the strongest blowing power especially with Europe voltage. Headed to Italy. Thanks in advance for the help

Hi Laurie, thanks for your question! We’ll share your question here so the author of the article can reply. 🙂

Fadz

Hello. Echoing Laurie’s question. If i may ask which travel size hair dryer has strongest blowing power equivalent to those at the saloon? Im headed to italy

Hi Fadz, thank you for reaching out. The T3 Micro Featherweight is a small but powerful blow dryer, and the Conair Vagabond is also powerful. For more feedback about travel hair dryers, I would recommend that you join TFG’s free facebook community and post your question there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ It is a fabulous group of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and suggestions to share. Hope this helps answer your question. Have an amazing trip to Italy! ?

Katie V

I swear by the Sephora Collection travel dryer. Dual voltage, super powerful, has a defuser and only costs $33 CAD! It’s probably one of the best dryers I have used ever, not just against other travel styles, but regular as well.

alex

Good tip Katie thank you!

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travel hair blow dryer

T3’s New Aire 360 Is Simplifying the Way I Style My Hair

By Paige Stables

A selfie of Allure editor Paige Stables holding the T3 Aire 360 alongside an image of the hot tool and its attachments

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

For a recent Hamptons getaway, I packed not one… not two… but three hot tools in my carry-on bag: a Dyson Supersonic blow-dryer , a GHD Platinum flatiron , and a Dyson Airwrap . All three were necessary to bring along. (Hold any eye-rolling, please.) All three were, in fact, used to style my hair throughout the long weekend. And though I’m not a light packer—evidently, I like to be fully accessorized—I would happily only pack a single tool if it could create the different styles (straight and polished, a voluminous blowout , soft waves) I regularly wear and keep my bangs sleek. T3’s brand-new Aire 360 might just be the solution.

At first glance, T3’s pretty-in-pastel-pink gadget looks familiar. To the Dyson Airwrap (I hold both side-by-side) and the numerous other air stylers on the market, certainly, but also to the brand’s existing Airebrush Duo that launched in 2021. That’s because it’s a similar concept: there’s a base complete with three heat settings, a cool shot function, and three speed settings, plus four attachments (a concentrated dryer nozzle, an oval brush—it’s the same design as the 2021 version —and two curling barrels for creating waves in opposite directions). What makes it unique: “Our barrels are ceramic, not plastic, so the heat management is different,” T3 cofounder Julie Chung tells me at the launch event. She emphasizes, “It's not tech for the sake of tech.”

What that means: the Aire 360 gets HOT. (Warning: Do not touch the attachments after styling—except on the heat-proof ends—or they will burn you.) But not too hot for your hair: T3 did independent testing on the tool to determine exactly how high they could turn up the heat to lock in a style—without causing hair damage. According to the brand’s research, tools over 320 degrees Fahrenheit will cause damage, specifically to wet hair. The highest setting on the Aire 360 is well under that at about 237 degrees Fahrenheit (Remember to keep your fingers—and ears—at a distance from the barrels!), whereas most curling irons reach nearly 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Even so, prepping with a heat protectant is still imperative to shield your hair from potential damage.

T3's Aire 360 blowout brush and accessories on a gray background.

T3 Aire 360

Allure senior beauty editor Paige Stables styling her hair with T3's new Aire 360.

Allure senior beauty editor Paige Stables styles her hair with T3's new Aire 360.

And like most other “blowout brushes,” heated air is flowing through the attachments, but “air is not just air,” says Chung. Like the brand’s other Best of Beauty-winning dryers, the SoftAire Drying Concentrator attachment emits ion-enriched air to speed up drying time.

When I went to put the Aire 360 to the test on my fine, wavy hair, I was impressed before I even pulled the tool out of its millennial pink vegan leather storage bag. Each attachment has a dedicated pocket in the pouch. Chung tells me it’s called the “Ashley bag” internally, named after her friend who expressed the need for a proper, non-bulky, and elevated place to keep all the gadgets (because, with most hot tools, you get a bulky box… or nothing) between uses and easily on the go.

Inside the bag, I reached for the dryer attachment first (this eliminates the need to have a separate blow-dryer on hand—hallelujah!) and started by rough-drying my hair. “A good way to avoid over-blow-drying is to rough-dry your hair first to get a good amount of the moisture out and then smooth it with a boar-bristle brush,” Rachel Bodt , a colorist in New York City, previously told Allure . The delicate gust (on the medium setting) was enough to sweep my bangs into formation.

A selfie of Allure senior beauty editor Paige Stables.

Allure senior beauty editor Paige Stables' hair after styling it with the T3 Aire 360.

Once my hair was about 80% dry, I grabbed the Custom Oval Brush attachment to get volume at the roots, smooth the ends, and polish my bangs. Unlike a traditional round brush, you don’t have to be a professional to operate it (I type this from experience), and the flexible bristles easily glide through my hair for a sleek finish after just a few passes. I was pleased with the flowy, polished finish but could have added more of a bend with the round brush, too.

Another day, I took things a step further, testing out the curling barrels. Each barrel rotates in opposite directions (to curl your hair away from your face and not have to do gymnastics with your arms). One minor caveat: I have been spoiled by Dyson’s curling barrels clicking back and forth into different airflow directions, whereas with T3's design, you have to swap out the entire attachment—but it requires very minimal effort to interchange the two. Once locked in, T3’s barrels do all the work for you, creating pristine curls (in about five to seven seconds). Hairstylist Xavier Velasquez advises grabbing one-inch sections and hitting the cool shot “for five to ten seconds” before releasing the curl for the best results. Velasquez explains, “You don’t have to twist or twirl the [curling barrels].” Instead he “pushes and pulls the tool in and out.”

Allure’s associate manager of special projects Talia Gutierrez was initially drawn to the Aire 360 for its oval blow-dry brush attachment. “The bristles allow for a tight grip around my thick hair, shortening the number of passes needed to smooth my otherwise wavy, coarse hair,” says Gutierrez. That said, she was even more impressed by the curling barrels: “My hair can typically hold a curl for days, but it usually requires the heat of a curling iron, and with T3's new tool on the highest heat and airflow settings, I was able to get shiny, large, bouncy ringlets that lasted.”

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That was the brand’s big goal: “The curls will last. No hacks. Full stop,” says Chung. And we can confirm they do—on both the finest and thickest hair. After wearing soft waves to a night at the ballet, I woke up to “bedhead” that looked more like a fresh, wavy blowout. And that is no small feat.

You can shop the T3 Aire 360 for $300 on t3micro.com and sephora.com .

Read more haircare reviews.

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  • 11 Best Oribe Products for the Best Hair Days Ever

Now watch Brooke Shields' hair care routine.

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Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer review

A speedy and versatile option for all hair types.

Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer with concentrator nozzle

TechRadar Verdict

With a selection of useful attachments for straight, wavy, curly and coily hair, the Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer is a great-value option for all hair types. Thanks to its wide head, powerful 2000-watt motor and speed of up to 120km/h it was able to dry my thick, wavy hair in under six minutes. While the handle isn’t the most comfortable to hold, I like how easily the four attachments fix in place. The flyaway hair attachment is a nice touch for those who suffer with unruly hair after straightening.

Wide head ensures fast drying

Powerful motor gets to work fast

Four attachments plus storage bag

Head gets hot in use

A little top heavy

Quite bulky so not great for travel

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

  • Two-minute review
  • Price & availability
  • Performance
  • Should you buy it?
  • How I tested

Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer two-minute review

The Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer D6077 is great value for what you get in the set. The hair dryer comes with four tools to suit a range of hair types – be it short and curly or long and straight. It has a wide head and one slim but wide concentrator nozzle to fit. I found that the hair dryer’s wide opening helped ensure fast-drying results, and when used at the highest speed and temperature, it left my hair feeling smooth and not over-dried like some hair dryers can make hair feel.

There’s a unique flyaway attachment in the set too. This can be used on dry and straightened hair to tame flyaways and help create a sleeker finish on straight hair. For curly hair, there are two diffuser attachments to choose from, which neatly click on the head of the hair dryer. You can choose the gentle drying diffuser to dry waves and curls without disturbing the shape and texture of hair. Alternatively, the more traditional style curl defining diffuser is great for drying natural curls and waves.

Box for the Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer

I found this hair dryer comfortable to use, although it took me a while to get used to the shape of the angled handle. There are two speeds to choose from and three heat settings, although the difference in temperature is subtle between the three temperatures. There’s also a cool shot that provides a constant cool stream of air that’s great for setting styles. 

The hair dryer feels well-made and durable and comes with a hanging hook for convenience. There’s also a storage bag in the kit to house the hair dryer and all its attachments. Overall, I think that while this hair dryer is a little too bulky for use when travelling, it’s a good all-rounder for all hair types from poker straight to curly and coily hair types.

  • Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer at Remington for £66.66

Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer review: price & availability

  • RRP: £99.99
  • Available: UK/EU

Established in New York in 1937, Remington is a well-respected brand in the haircare industry. The company sells a range of hair dryers, flat irons, curling tongs, rollers and grooming tools for both men and women.

I tested the UK version of the Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer D6077, which is reasonably priced at £99.99. At time of writing, this is on sale for £66.66 direct on the Remington website and at Amazon for £64.35 . I think this is an excellent price for a very versatile design.

The hair dryer comes in a grey, black and rose gold finish. This hair dryer is part of the ‘One’ collection that also features the Remington One Straight & Curl Styler, the Remington One Head & Body Multi Groomer and the Remington One Total Body Multi Groomer.

A very similar hair dryer is also available in the USA, although the name and colorway are slightly different. In the states, you’ll find the almost identical Remington ONE Multi-Style Hair Dryer in a black and rose gold finish. At the time of writing, it costs $54.99 at Remington .

  • Value for money score: 4.5 out of 5

Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer review: design

  • Wide 9cm concentrator nozzle for fast styling
  • Flyaway attachment plus two diffusers
  • Comes with storage bag and hanging hook

Designed with versatility in mind, the Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer is solidly built and comes in a glossy grey and rose gold finish. Its attachments are finished in black, which is a bit of a contrast from the hair dryer's finish, but they do fit on effortlessly. The hair dryer measures H21.9 x W8.7 x D29cm and weighs 930g, which feels solid in hand, but a little heavy after extended use. The design is built to be fast and comes with a 2000-watt motor, which generates air speeds of up to 120km/h. This, says Remington, is 25% faster than its standard hair dryers.

There are three heat settings on board, two speed settings and one cool shot. It also comes fitted with a ‘Thermacare sensor’ for peace of mind that prevents the hair dryer from overheating.

Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer with concentrator, diffuser and flyaway tamer attachments

The hair dryer comes with a range of useful attachments to suit both straight, wavy and curly hair. In the kit there’s a slim concentrator nozzle that measures 3.5" / 9cm long. This is above average compared to a standard hair dryer and makes things faster – the Dyson Supersonic’s largest nozzle measures 2.7" / 7cm wide, for example. There’s also a flyaway tamer attachment that can be used on dry hair to tame wispy flyaways that can sometimes appear after drying or hair straightening. A gentle drying diffuser is also included in the set, as is a curl defining diffuser, which makes the hair dryer a really versatile option.

There’s also a small Remington branded drawstring bag in the box. It is just about big enough to store the hair dryer and its four attachments. Alternatively, you can make use of the hanging loop to store your hair dryer on a hook.

  • Design score: 4.5 out of 5

Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer review: performance

  • Powerful 2000-watt motor
  • 3 speeds, 2 heat settings and one cool shot
  • Accommodates all hair types

While it does have a few flaws, I feel that this hair dryer does well to cater for use on all hair types as it promises. On first use, I was pleased with the fast results of this hair dryer, but it took some time to get used to the design. 

I was pleased with how much cord you get on this design, which at 2.55m, makes it easy to move around at the dressing table. I did find the head of the hair dryer quite heavy in comparison to the handle, however, and it weighed a little on my hand. This is fine for general use, but I can imagine it might start to feel cumbersome after extended use – in a salon perhaps, or if you have a few kids who’ve just had bath and hair wash time.

While the finish of the Remington One is smooth, there isn’t a defined area to grip. That said, the controls are positioned in such a way that makes them easy to reach and ensures they don’t get accidentally knocked while drying hair. The handle of the hair dryer is positioned at a slight angle from the head. It took me a while to get used to holding it as I had previously been using the Dyson Supersonic , which has a handle that is a lot straighter and at a right angle from the main head. 

As I began to use the attachments, I started to appreciate the angled handle, however, as it allowed me to hold the hair dryer in a comfortable position for blow drying the sides of my hair. I also found it very easy to switch between the four attachments. They can simply be clicked on and off the head of the hair dryer. I did need to wait for the hair dryer to cool down before changing them, though,  as the tip of the hair dryer can get very hot in use.

Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer with concentrator, diffuser and flyaway tamer attachments

With its 2000-watt motor, this Remington hair dryer is powerful. This means that it’s not the quietest hair dryer I’ve tried, measuring around 86.1dB in use. By comparison, I measured the 1600-watt Panasonic Nanoe Moisture+ and Mineral hair dryer at 88.3dB.

There are three heat settings on the Remington One hair dryer that can easily be adjusted via controls on the handle. While the highest setting is hot, I didn’t notice that much difference in heat when flicking from one to three. The two speed settings come in useful if you need a blast of power or if you don’t want to use too much force and heat on your hair. The lowest settings also work well for kids. A cool shot that can be clicked on and off and cools down in under five seconds also works well. I found it particularly beneficial when things were getting a bit too hot and I wanted to cool things down on a lower heat. It’s also great for setting styles or giving hair a little  shine at the end of a drying session.

With its four attachments, two speed settings, three heat settings and a cool shot, I think it’s a great piece of kit to get creative with your styling or for simply achieving dry hair, fast. Having used the hair dryer over the course of a month, I was impressed at just how quickly it dried my hair each time I used it, in fact. I used the concentrator nozzle regularly, which at 9cm manages to dry a good chunk of hair quickly in one go. I managed to blow dry my hair in an average of six minutes, which I felt was fast compared to some less powerful hair dryers I’ve tried in the past that take a while to get up to speed.

Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer next to Panasonic Panasonic Nanoe Moisture+ and Mineral hair dryer

The attachments provide a good range of options for all hair types too. While I mainly used the concentrator nozzle, the flyaway tamer came in useful after straightening my hair. It took a while to figure out how to direct the airflow, but I managed to flatten a few flyaways when needed. Meanwhile, the gentle drying diffuser is ideal for curly and coily hair (or any child who hates a hair dryer) as it gently dries from a distance without damaging your hair style. While I didn’t have much need for that attachment, I did use the curl defining diffuser when I wanted to dry my hair wavy. The diffuser isn’t that big but it was large enough to fit a good section of my hair in one go and left my hair feeling soft in the process.

  • Performance score: 4.5 out of 5

Should you buy the Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer?

Buy it if….

You want a fast and powerful hair dryer

The powerful motor on this wide head hair dryer generates fast air speeds of up to 120 km/h, which Remington says is 25% faster a its standard hair dryers. 

You have curly or wavy hair

While this hair dryer is excellent for use on straight hair, it does a great job at catering for curly and coily hair too. Simply add one of the diffuser attachments to reap the benefits.

You straighten your hair

Hair straighteners have a habit of leaving flyaways in full view. With the flyaway tamer attachment on this hair dryer, unruly hair will be a thing of the past.

Don’t buy it if….

You want a hair dryer that is very light

At 930g, this hair dryer has a bit of weight to it. While this adds a premium touch to the overall design of the hair dryer, it does mean that it can start to feel a little heavy if used over an extended period.

You want a hair dryer that you can travel with

As mentioned above, this hair dryer isn’t the lightest design you can find and it doesn’t come with a foldable handle like some travel hair dryers do. While there is a storage bag in the kit, you’ll need space to store all four attachments, which doesn’t make it very travel friendly. 

You have short hair

The beauty of this hair dryer is that it does a quick job on thick, voluminous hair. If you have short hair, you won’t really reap the benefits and it’s worth investing in something smaller and with fewer attachments. 

How I tested the Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer

I have tested a wide collection of hair dryers in recent years from brands such as Laifen Swift to Dyson . This means that I know what makes for a good design and a top performing hair dryer. A design that is easy to hold with simple controls that give you a lot of flexibility is key. I was keen to see just how well the Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer compared to other popular hair dryers. 

To find out, I used the Remington One Dry & Style Hair Dryer for four weeks to see how best it could suit my family of four. I have medium length wavy hair that is prone to frizz, so I wanted to see how well it could blow dry my hair smooth. I also used the diffuser attachment to see how well it could enhance the waves in my hair.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed June 2024

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

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The Best Budget Hair Dryer We Tested for Frizz-Free Results Is on Sale at Amazon for Under $50

We got salon-level results in just four minutes

travel hair blow dryer

People / Francesca Fasciglione

Getting a salon-level blowout at home is easier than you think. And no, you don’t need professional skills or one of those viral air-powered tools to get the look.

We tested 34 different hair dryers on a variety of hair types for over two years, and a classic tool came out on top in our budget category: the Conair InfinitiPro SmoothWrap . We evaluated each blow dryer’s speed, heat settings, ease of use, attachments, and more, and the SmoothWrap performed the best in its category. It reduces frizz while maximizing volume, and it’s under $50 at Amazon right now.

Conair InfinitiPro SmoothWrap Hair Dryer

There are several things to consider when shopping for a hair dryer, from hair type to features to attachments. This one works well on all hair types, reducing frizz and maximizing volume and body while keeping strands soft and smooth. Our tester was blown away by how smooth and soft their hair felt after just one use. The SmoothWrap’s ceramic technology minimizes heat damage while a balance of positive and negative ions combine to leave hair feeling healthy, conditioned, and moisturized.

Although the SmoothWrap is a fairly simple tool, it comes with customizable styling features we love: three heat settings, two speed settings, and a cool shot button. Using the high-speed and low-heat settings, we were able to get fully dried hair in four minutes. You can also personalize your style by attaching the sleek concentrator or professional diffuser to get precise, frizz-free results.

Amazon shoppers are also big fans of this Conair hair dryer. It has earned more than 2,000 five-star ratings, and 1,000+ people have purchased it this month alone. Shoppers love its short drying time, frizz control, lightweight feel, and customizable heat settings. Plus, the budget-friendly price is a nice bonus. 

“I can’t even tell you how fast this dried my hair,” one shopper wrote . “I have spent far more money on a dryer before but have never been so pleased… like I am [with] this one.”

If you’re looking for a powerful yet budget-friendly hair dryer that’s safe to use every day, the Conair InfinitiPro SmoothWrap is our top pick. Keep scrolling for more discounted hair dryers from Amazon under $50, all with thousands of positive reviews.

Shop Best-Selling Hair Dryers Under $50 at Amazon 

Wavytalk ionic hair dryer, $32 with coupon, revlon turbo hair dryer, slopehill ionic hair dryer, $28 with coupon, funtin hair dryer, loveps ionic hair dryer, see more from people shopping.

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Pattern hair dryer and diffuser tested on dark curly hair

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

Updated November 24th: This article on the best hair dryers for curly was updated with new product selects and firsthand testing review notes , and was fact-checked by a copy editor .

If you have coils, ringlets, or curls, you know that correctly drying your hair can have a major impact on how your hair looks until the next wash day. With the best hair dryers for curly hair, defined and bouncy curls are guaranteed for the days ahead.

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“People with curly hair are often scared of a hair dryer, especially when they’re trying to embrace their natural texture,” explains Nylza Yepez , hair stylist at Jenna Perry Hair Studio . But you don’t have to be: The best modern hair dryers enhance your pattern, instead of flattening it. And the wide range of the best curly hair mousses , creams, gels, and other styling products will ensure your curls stay. Plus, if your hair falls a little flat, there’s always a curling iron or hot tool to kickstart the curl back into action.

To select this list of the best hair dryers for curly hair, our editors conducted extensive testing on over 25 top-rated tools, evaluating the devices on types 2a to 4c hair. With this extensive first-hand testing and expert suggestions, we’ve narrowed down the best hair dryers for curly hair.

Top Hair Dryers for Curly Hair 2024

Pattern the blow dryer.

  • Conair InfinitiPro 3Q Hair Dryer 

Shark SpeedStyle Hair Dryer

  • Bed Head Curls in Check Diffuser Dryer 

Laifen Swift Hair Dryer

Dyson airwrap complete long diffuse multi-styler, zuvi halo hair dryer.

  • T3 Featherweight StyleMax Hair Dryer 
  • Drybar Buttercup Hair Dryer  
  • Gold ‘N Hot Professional Ionic Soft Bonnet Hair Dryer 
  • Elchim Milano Run Hair Dryer  
  • DevaCurl DevaDryer + DevaFuser Hair Drye r
  • Ga.Ma Italy Professional IQ Perfetto 

Remington ProLuxe HydraCare Dryer

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

Testing Verdict: Top 3 Blow Dryers for Curly Hair

No single hair dryer for curly hair earned best overall on our list due to the variation in the category and independent styling needs for different hair lengths, thicknesses, and curl patterns. Our testers found the top choices below best for a range of hair types, textures, and results.

  • Pattern The Blow Dryer: This thoughtfully designed curly hair dryer by Pattern impressed our testers for its ability to not just dry, but also expertly style types 2a to 4c hair. The included attachments are particularly handy for stretching coils for those with types 3 and 4 hair. With a sleek design and extensive settings, Pattern’s dryer is ideal for those who want a one-and-done tool for styling curly hair.
  • Conair InfinitiPro 3Q Hair Dryer: Our panel of testers rated Conair’s hair dryer as the best budget-friendly hair dryer for curly hair. Although it costs just $50 (and is frequently discounted to $20), this dryer performs as well as more expensive options on our list. It also includes two attachments that cater to curls, where similarly-priced options only include diffusers available for purchase separately. We vouch for this as a starter dryer or a travel hair dryer for those with curls.
  • Shark SpeedStyle for Curly Hair: With an impressive set of attachments, the Shark SpeedStyle hair dryer for curly hair ranks high on our list for its versatility. Not only does the Shark hair tool come with attachments that smooth and define curls, but it also includes a finishing flyaway attachment that quickly tames unwanted pieces of frizz. Its diffuser features adjustable prongs that make it handy for any hair length and thickness.

Tracee Ellis Ross’ hair care line, Pattern, released its first hot tool in January 2023 after two full years of development, and no detail was overlooked in the process. Each of the four included attachments in Pattern’s Hair Blow Dryer were created with curls in mind. The bowl diffuser features aluminum plates that heat up to expedite your dry time, and the comb attachment helps detangle without flattening out your ringlets. If you’re looking to stretch or smooth your curls, the dryer has two attachments that’ll do the trick as well as the best hair dryer brushes out there. Editor testing and review notes: “A multi-styling hair dryer is only handy if the attachments work with your hair texture — any for those with curly hair, that can be tricky to find. After testing Pattern’s hair dryer, I can assure you that curly girls will find use for every attachment included. I found myself using each of the included attachments in Pattern’s hair dryer on my curly hair, whether it’s the wide-tooth comb that detangles while drying or the brush attachment that stretches out curls. Yes, the attachments are genius, but the hair dryer itself is, too. The heat and airflow settings cater to curly hair — I love that I have the option to use low, gentle heat with the diffuser to dry your curls without blasting them through the roof.” Price upon publish date of this article: $189

Conair InfinitiPro 3Q Hair Dryer

Looking for a budget pick that stands up to pricey alternatives? Say no more. Conair’s tool employs frizz-controlling ionic technology along with multiple speed and heat settings. It’s well-equipped for thicker hair, drying it quickly without blowing too much scorching heat. The included diffuser is ideal for lengthy hair types, courtesy of the diffuser’s depth and long prongs, as well as special technology that focuses the airflow within the diffuser’s bowl for faster, more efficient drying. And if you want to go sleek, the included concentrator attachment allows you to do just that. Editor testing and review notes: “If you’re looking for a no-frills hair dryer that gets the job done, this option is for you. It gives incredible volume and ensures a fast drying time so there’s less heat exposure for your hair — aka, less damage. The real star of this dryer is the diffuser attachment, which features lengthy prongs and a deep cup that corrals my curls for fewer passes per section. On a low airflow setting, the attachment adds definition and bounce to my curls for a uniform look without frizz. Plus, it comes with a sleek concentrator that helps focus the airflow for precise drying on days I want to wear my hair straight.” Price upon publish date of this article: $33.99

Shark Beauty is known for genius, budget-friendly hair tools like the FlexStyle multi-styler , and the recently launched SpeedStyle is hands-down the brand’s best hair dryer for curly hair. This tool is impossibly small and lightweight for its drying power; even thick hair types can expect quick, efficient drying with the device. The included attachments in this configuration of the SpeedStyle are crafted with curly hair in mind, giving you the option to define curls, stretch coils, and smooth unwanted frizz. Editor testing and review notes : “I love how petite and powerful this hair dryer is — it has the portability of a travel hair dryer with the performance and bells and whistles of a luxury tool. Unlike other multi-stylers, the SpeedStyle’s attachments take mere seconds to figure out, thanks to their intuitive design and the dryer’s settings that automatically adjust based on the attachment you click into place. The diffuser attachment is a standout for to its roomy bowl and adjustable prongs, which allow me to dry the lengths of my hair or add volume to my roots.” Price upon publish date of this article: $199.99 Related: Shark SmoothStyle Hair Dryer Brush Review

Bed Head Curls in Check 1875 Watt Hair Diffuser Dryer 

If your diffuser attachment is the only way you’ll use your hair dryer, this one from Bed Head is for you — the dryer’s diffuser isn’t a separate piece to tack on, but rather it’s built into the tool’s design. It’s more compact than other options, so it’s easy to tuck into a suitcase or gym bag. And the tourmaline ceramic material keeps your strands looking healthy, not frazzled.  Editor testing and review notes: “While a hair dryer with a diffuser head instead of a nozzle might feel limiting, I can assure you that it’s actually genius. This tool is, of course, best for those who only use a diffuser in their drying process. The pronged diffuser style makes it best for those with shorter or thinner hair types, however it worked well on my long, thick curls (if you have similar length and thickness, expect it to take a few more minutes than a deep bowl diffuser). I love that I don’t need to worry about storing or traveling with extra attachments.” Price upon publish date of this article: $27.97

Looking to shave minutes off of your styling time? Laifen’s Swift Hair Dryer is an ultra powerful, petite hair dryer that does its work quickly. This best hair dryer for curly hair beat out all the others we tested in its airflow strength, which disperses both hot and cool air for drying and setting your curls. While it’s available in multiple configurations, we recommend this set for its inclusion of a diffuser attachment and two concentrators. Despite its serious power, the tool is impressively lightweight. Editor testing and review notes: “I tend to dread drying my long hair because many tools can feel heavy after a while, but this one is super small, lightweight, and makes the entire experience feel less bulky and burdensome. This also may be the most quiet hair dryer I’ve ever used. My only complaint is that the heat settings are only displayed via colorful LED lights on the back of the hair dryer, so it takes a few uses to get accustomed to what color corresponds with your preferred setting.” Price upon publish date of this article: $159

In case you missed the news, Dyson recently dropped a curly hair-friendly Airwrap Diffuse that’s complete with attachments for type 2A to 4C curls. This splurge-worthy tool comes with all the fixings that made the original Dyson Airwrap a TikTok-famous beauty product : It includes the Airwrap curling barrels for a post-blowout look, the Flyaway attachment that tames unruly pieces, and the dryer’s special airflow technology that prevents heat damage without sacrificing the styling result. The Airwrap Diffuse debuted with two new Dyson attachments for curly hair — a diffuser with long prongs and a medium-deep bowl, as well as a large round volumizing brush that smooths out curls quickly. Editor testing and review notes: “I’ve owned a Dyson Airwrap for three years, so I can confidently attest to this tool’s ability to prevent damage and breakage while expertly styling my hair. The caveat? The original tool lacked attachments for styling my curls. But now it’s a non-issue with the Dyson Airwrap Diffuse, which features a full suite of attachments for stretching, defining, and enhancing my curls. Yes, it’s an investment, but one that will take the place of your other hair dryers and styling tools — and leave your hair healthier in the long run.” Price upon publish date of this article: $599.99

If you love the look of your hair when it’s air-dried, give Zuvi’s Halo Hair Dryer a try. This best hair dryer for curly hair and frizz employs patented technology to dry your hair without overheating the inner part of your hair shaft — this means you’ll get to dry hair in minutes, without damage or unwanted frizz. The Zuvi comes with a diffuser, styling concentrator, and a gentle air attachment. The cool airflow is particularly great for setting curls. Editor testing and review notes: “When I tested the Zuvi hair dryer for the first time, I thought I clicked the wrong setting — this dryer is an anomaly because it feels lukewarm, never hot, while you use it. Despite the lack of heat, the dryer works impressively quickly to dry my curls without making them frizzy or frazzled. Another nice benefit: The tool hasn’t caused my color to fade like similar dryers do.” Price upon publish date of this article: $279.99

T3 Featherweight StyleMax Hair Dryer

T3 tools are known for delivering a luxury feel and amazing results without an eye-watering price tag. The Featherweight StyleMax Hair Dryer is one of the best hair dryers for curly hair due to its diffuser, comb, and concentrator attachments that enhance types 2A to 4C hair, and its large range of heat and airflow settings. Those settings automatically adjust to your hair texture, taking out the guesswork when you’re styling. Editor testing and review notes: “Once you get used to the range of settings, special features, and styling options this hair dryer delivers, you’ll be blown away by the results. The smoothing comb attachment was a favorite of mine during testing — it’s a dream for those who deal with tangles after wash day, as it glides right through knots to separate curls without flattening them. Just note that the hair dryer is made with a slick material, so it may slide in your hand if you’re working with hair oils or emollient leave-in conditioners.” Price upon publish date of this article: $199.99

Drybar Buttercup Hair Dryer 

Many dryers aren’t efficient on the lowest heat setting, but this Drybar Buttercup Hair Dryer works extra well on low heat, which is great for maintaining your natural curl pattern. The diffuser attachment is sold separately, but it’s worth the purchase for its versatile medium prong length that accommodates short, medium, and long hair. Give your hair some time to air dry before powering it on to speed up the process.  Editor testing and review notes: “Patience is a requirement when you’re diffusing curly hair, as airflow that’s too strong can blast curls out of their natural pattern and high heat risks damage. Drybar’s Buttercup Hair Dryer is a favorite I’ve tested for its low heat and airflow settings that maintain my curl pattern without taking ages to dry my hair. I get a good amount of shine when I use the dryer, too.” Price upon publish date of this article: $199

Gold ‘N Hot Professional Ionic Soft Bonnet Hair Dryer

Hooded dryers offer a hands-free approach to drying your hair (and let’s be real, we all want that). This one earns high marks for its large bonnet that will fit even jumbo sized curlers. It also offers a wide range of heat settings. Simply secure the bonnet around your hairline, power the device, and put your feet up. You can also use this for your weekly or monthly deep treatment hair mask — the warmth helps the nourishing ingredients absorb. What testers say: “The bonnet is just the right size, fits perfectly. I love how everything compacts into the case. This dries my hair so quickly, I’m amazed. I also need to run it low to medium as it does get quite hot, but I still give it five stars. My hair does not frizz and comes out with nice texture.” Price upon publish date of this article : $59.99

Elchim 8th Sense Run Hair Dryer

Yepez uses this luxury pick from Elchim at home and on the road (it’s incredibly lightweight). The ionic and ceramic features work together to prevent your hair from burning, and the airflow dries your strands from the inside out to boost overall shine.  The diffuser is sold separately so it’s pricey altogether, but the tool will last you ages — it promises 5,000 hours of drying time.  Editor testing and review notes: “This is a professional hair dryer, through and through: It’s lightweight (amazing for longer styling times, which are usually involved with curly hair types) and ultra efficient even on a low heat and airflow setting. Out of the dryers we tested, this one earned high points for its durability — it didn’t show any signs of wear after weeks of repeated use and a few falls from a countertop onto a tile floor.” Price upon publish date of this article: $265

DevaCurl DevaDryer + DevaFuser Hair Dryer

This funky shaped hair dryer is a favorite for any curl pattern. The DevaCurl DevaDryer + DevaFuser includes a hand-shaped diffuser that distributes airflow in a curl-enhancing way. It’s a great choice if you’re after more volume — the tool contains patented ionic technology that gives you lift while smoothing the outer cuticle of your hair for less frizz. The unique diffuser shape makes it easy to dry your roots, too. Editor testing and review notes: “This was my first experience with a hand diffuser, and while there’s a bit of a learning curve, the results are absolutely worth it. You can use the diffuser to target roots where they fall flat and tend to use volume, or section out smaller pieces to define curls from mid-length to the end of your strands. I also love using this diffuser to refresh my curls between wash days.” Price upon publish date of this article: $180

Ga.Ma Italy Professional IQ Perfetto Hair Dryer

This sleek, tiny hair dryer packs a big punch: It’s beloved by hair stylists for its slim profile and high caliber drying power. Yes, it’s an investment, but the petite tool has all the high tech bells and whistles you could want. It even has an auto clean setting to keep the filter free of dust and debris and a memory function that keeps track of your most used speed and heat preferences. And the best part? This hair dryer for curly hair weighs just over 10 ounces.  Editor testing and review notes: “Tired arms, be gone — this Ga.Ma hair dryer has the weight of a hair brush or hair straightener in the hand. While that’s a selling point for anyone, it’s particularly helpful when you need to devote 30 minutes or more to taking your hair from sopping wet to bouncy and styled. The auto-cleaning function keeps it humming like new, so you can count on it to outlast similar options. I’ve owned the tool for two years and it still feels as powerful and efficient as the day I took it out of the box.” Price upon publish date of this article: $299.95

Remington’s dryer has a special sensor to prevent heat damage while you’re drying — which is a high tech feature for a dryer this budget-friendly. It comes with three attachments, including two concentrators and a diffuser with short prongs, so you can amp up your curls or smooth them out. For under $150, it’s a great affordable hair dryer for those with curls to try. Editor testing and review notes: “This compact choice is a nice hair dryer for those who can’t be bothered to fuss with a trillion settings and attachments. I found myself using the diffuser and narrow concentrator attachment equally, and both made quick work of delivering the results I was after. The diffuser’s deep bowl and short prongs are particularly handy for drying the lengths of my hair.” Price upon publish date of this article: $129.99

What Does a Diffuser Do?

What to look for in a hair blow dryer for curly hair.

Ionic technology : This is a must, according to Yepez. Ionic technology helps decrease frizziness, as the negative ions reduce static electricity and promote shiny, bouncy strands, says celebrity hairstylist Michael Dueñas . And for the science nerds among us, it also helps dry hair faster: Water has a positive ionic charge, so the negative ions repel the water from your hair.

Heat settings : We all know that hot tools can damage your hair when used regularly. But a dryer with adjustable heat settings is paramount — it allows you to calibrate the air temperature before it has the chance to burn your locks. “Your dryer should get very warm, but never so hot that you feel it’s going to burn your scalp,” says Dueñas. A cool setting is the cherry on top as chilly air seals the cuticles of your strands for a shiny finish. 

Prong size : The length of a diffuser’s prongs also impacts your final look. Longer prongs diffuse less heat on your hair, providing softer curl definition. Shorter ones give you more control over where exactly the heat is concentrated, making it a great choice for those who want tighter ringlets.

How To Use a Hair Dryer For Curly Hair

  • Remove excess moisture : Once you step out of the shower, Yepez recommends wrapping your wet hair in a t-shirt or microfiber hair towel to soak up as much water as possible. 
  • Prep with product : Opt for a mousse or gel that delivers light hold. Scrunch it onto your ends and up towards your roots — it’s important to avoid a brush or comb so you don’t disrupt your natural curl pattern. 
  • Diffuse the roots : “Set your dryer to a low air setting on full heat, and focus your diffuser on the root area, moving slowly in a circular motion until it’s about 90 percent dry,” says Yepez. This gives your ends extra time to air-dry, and allows you to finesse your hairline once you’ve dried your strands. 
  • Dry the ends : Delicately take your curls and place the ends in the diffuser, then lift the dryer up towards your head. Be patient here, this step can take awhile. “Do not move the dryer until that section is about 95 to 100 percent dry,” Dueñas says. “The more you move curly hair when wet, the more frizz you will get.” 
  • Hydrate your hair : Once your hair is almost fully dry, spritz a hydrating leave-in conditioner onto your ends. Then, do your best to not touch those strands — excessing touching or brushing will disrupt the natural curl pattern.
  • Reset as needed : If your curls fall flat between wash days, just mist your mid-lengths to ends with water to reset your look, says Yepez.

The Best Products for Curly Hair

Choosing the right hair dryer is just one step in creating a routine that keeps your curls bouncy and frizz-free. Cycle these products into your rotation to ensure good hair days ahead.

  • Hair masks : All curly hair types can benefit from a monthly (or biweekly) hair mask session. Look for deep conditioners, which deliver a wallop of moisturizing ingredients deep into your hair for softer, shinier coils. Briogeo and Pattern have excellent options for different concerns.
  • Heat protectants: Before drying your hair, it’s important to apply a generous amount of heat protectant. Direct heat from a dryer — even if it’s set to low heat — can frazzle the cuticle of your hair and cause brittleness or breakage.
  • Styling mousses and foams : Even the best diffusers can cause some of your hairs to lose their curl pattern; that’s where styling mousses and foams come into play. These products give your hair some grip and hold, which sets your curls for the days ahead.
  • Co-wash : A rinse and condition is a great way to keep your curls hydrated — not stripped from over-shampooing. How often you use a co-wash depends on how frequently you wash your hair, but a good rule of thumb is to cycle one in every other wash day. Cycle in a clarifying shampoo if you notice buildup on your scalp.
  • Curl cream: Think of these formulas as leave-in conditioners tailor made for curly hair. They contain the hydrating ingredients associate with the latter, but with some extra hold to help activate and set your curls. You can use these products whenever you need a refresh. Moroccanoil has a great option.

Tips for Drying Curly Hair Without Frizz

  • Prep with product: Curly hair products with hold, like mousses, are an essential step for corralling stray hairs into ringlets and coils when you dry your hair. Apply the product on damp hair in a gentle lifting motion from your ends up to your roots.
  • Diffuse carefully: A diffuser is your friend: Without the attachment, the blast of hot air will ruin the shape of your ringlets. Stay patient and practice what Nai’Vasha calls the “do not disturb” technique. Once your hair is settled in the diffuser attachment, don’t move it until you’re dry.  Finish with a leave-in conditioner or hairspray to set the curls in place.
  • Refresh with curl cream: Even the best blowout can result in frizz after a few days, but don’t fear. Curl creams and leave-in conditioners are designed to re-activate your ringlets between wash days and keep frizz at bay. Warm the product in your hands and scrunch it into any areas that are falling flat or looking frizzy.
  • Sleep strategically: Silk pillowcases or silk bonnets are excellent for maintaining your style when you sleep, according to Yepez. Unlike cotton, silky material won’t rough up your hair, meaning you’ll wake up without tangles, frizz, or clumps.

How We Chose the Best Hair Dryers for Curly Hair

To select the best hair dryers for curly hair, we first fielded questions to hair stylists with authority and expertise in caring and styling various types of curly and coily hair. Using their advice and recommendations, we researched the market to find hair dryers that cater to different curl patterns and styling goals. On top of extensive personal testing, we also evaluated new technology, popular hair dryers for curly hair on TikTok, and combed through customer reviews to ensure the selections on our list work for a variety of curl patterns, thicknesses, and lengths. We tested over 25 hair dryers, including the below notable runner ups:

  • Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer: A close second to the Dyson Airwrap Complete Diffuse, the Supersonic impressed our testers in its ability to quickly dry curls without damaging them. While we love the Supersonic’s attachments (including a diffuser), the new Airwrap Complete Diffuse offers more styling versatility.
  • Harry Josh Pro Tools Ultralight Hair Dryer: While this is an excellent choice for smoothing out curls for a fresh blow out look, Harry Josh doesn’t offer a diffuser that’s compatible with the hair dryer. This limits the tool’s styling capabilities for those looking for a hair dryer that amps up their natural curls.
  • Ghd Helios Hair Dryer: Our testers loved the feel of this hair dryer and how quickly it worked to dry hair, but we found it performed best on wavy hair types versus those after defined curls and coils. Those who are dealing with damaged hair and often straighten or smooth out their curls will appreciate how quick drying and powerful the tool is, and that it won’t singe your strands due to its controlled temperature.

How We Tested and Reviewed the Best Hair Dryers for Curly Hair

A panel of testers evaluated over 25 hair dryers to curate this list of the best blow dryers for curly hair. We tested these dryers on our own hair, as well as human hair wigs to assess the dryers on types 2a to 4c hair. Beyond this range of curl patterns, we also tested the dryers on a range of hair lengths and thicknesses. We tested the tools over two months to evaluate their longevity, styling versatility, and how they hold up to everyday wear and tear. During testing, we assessed the attachments, special features, heat and airflow settings, and the results that these best hair dryers for curly hair deliver.

  • Included attachments: Our testers made sure the tools on our list either include a diffuser or are compatible with one, as these attachments are essential for drying any curl pattern. We awarded extra points to dryers that come with additional curly hair-friendly attachments: Options from Pattern and Dyson, for example, include wide tooth comb attachments that are ideal for stretching type 4 coils.
  • Heat and airflow settings: Curly hair types need dryers with low airflow settings to dry curls without blasting them with ringlet-ruining gusts of air. However, the airflow and heat settings shouldn’t be so low that the drying process takes hours. The options on our list have a minimum of two airflow settings and two heat settings for efficient drying on types 2a to 4c hair.
  • Special features: On top of multiple heat and airflow settings, our testers assessed features like ionic and infrared technology, which are helpful for combatting unwanted frizz in curly hair types. We also noted if the dryers had features that encourage healthy hair, like auto temperature adjustments that prevent heat damage.
  • Ease of use: Hair dryers that felt cumbersome or complicated to use were removed from our list. We also took note of design features that impact the experience using the hair dryer, giving bonus points to dryers with long cords and intuitive button placements. For dryers with multiple attachments, we noted if those attachments easily secured to the nozzle and stayed put during styling.

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Meet the Experts

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

Nylza Yepez is a hairstylist at Jenna Perry Hair Studio. Originally from California, she trained under hair experts Leo Manetti and Marco Santini. She’s worked on many NYFW shows, and specializes in textured haircuts and playing with shapes. 

Meet the Author 

Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for WWD and Footwear News. She’s spent over five years researching, reporting on, and writing about the beauty industry for publications like Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She has type 2B hair, so she’s well versed in troubleshooting curl-related woes, and finding the best tricks and tools that deliver a great hair day. Sullivan wrote the original version of this story and updated it in November with new hair dryers for curly hair, testing review notes, and additional expert tips.

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T3 Travel Size Afar Lightweight Hair Dryer #1

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T3 Travel Size Afar Lightweight Hair Dryer

Online only | Item 2608577

Meet your ultimate travel companion. Featuring T3 IonAir Technology and auto-dual voltage, T3 Afar Lightweight Hair Dryer packs superior drying power and a full suite of travel features for beautiful hair on the go.

  • Dries hair fast and delivers smooth, shiny results with the power of negative ions in a travel sized, compact hair dryer design. 
  • T3 IonAir: Advanced airflow technology emits ion-rich air to dry large sections of hair quickly and gently.
  • Compact body: For easy storage in small spaces while traveling.
  • Folding Handle: Offers the same sturdiness and easy grip of full-size dryers, while folding conveniently for easy storage in small spaces.
  • Auto dual voltage: Automatically adapts for worry-free styling abroad.
  • 3 heats and 2 speeds: Independent heat and speed switches to style all hair types and textures.
  • Lock-in Cool shot: A burst of cool air locks in any style for a smooth, sleek finish.
  • Lightweight design: For comfortable styling.
  • Professional length cord: For easier maneuvering around the bathroom during styling.
  • Luxury travel pouch: For easy travel and storage.

How to Blowout Your Hair:

  • Select your desired heat and speed settings. Using the concentrator, rough dry hair until it is 80% dry. To style, divide hair into 3-4 inch sections. Place a barrel brush beneath the first section, starting at the root. Follow the brush with the dryer, pulling through to the ends of the hair. When you reach the ends, roll hair back up to your head and hold. Continue styling this way until the section is dry. Release and move on to the next section. Press the Lock-in Cool Shot button to set your style with cool air. 

How to Diffuse Your Hair:

  • Attach the T3 Afar diffuser (sold separately) to your T3 Afar travel size hair dryer. Select your optimal heat and speed setting on the dryer, then blow dry hair focusing on the roots. While drying, "scrunch" the hair with the diffuser from ends to roots to create defined waves and curls.

Pre-caution:  Do not wrap the power cord around the dryer as this may damage the electrical wiring. Consult the enclosed user guide prior to use.

Ingredients

T3 IonAir Technology 

Powerful ion-enriched airstream designed to dry hair fast with no-compromise results. A negative ion generator delivers 10 million negative ions per second to help smooth the hair cuticle to minimize frizz and boost shine. Customizable settings allow for the right heat and speed combination, to style any hair type and texture.

Best overall

Best for fine hair, best for all hair types, best for thick hair, best for short hair, best on a budget, best for long hair, best for oily hair, best for dense curly hair, best splurge, best under $50.

  • What to look for
  • Tips on how to use

The best blow dryer brushes of 2024 for quick and easy styling

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

If you love the look of professional blowouts but hate spending a small fortune on them, consider investing in a blow dryer brush. This versatile tool pulls triple duty as the best hair dryer , straightening brush ,  and styler. Put simply, blow dryer brushes are designed to save you time, effort, and energy when it comes to styling your hair, and, fortunately, they're suitable for all hair types, textures, and lengths. 

As someone who owns several blow dryer brushes — including a few mentioned below — I've picked up quite a few tricks. For example, blow dry brushes work best on my hair when it's about 80% to 90% dry. Not only does this reduce styling time, but it also helps minimize heat damage. By far, my favorite is the T3 AireBrush Duo Interchangeable Hot Air Blow Dry Brush  because of its adjustable heat and speed settings that offer multiple styles.

From a wallet-friendly favorite to a splurge-worthy staple, I've scoured the internet — and spoken to the pros — to narrow down the best blow dryer brushes for every hair type and budget.

Our top picks for the best blow dryer brushes

Best overall: T3 AireBrush Duo Interchangeable Hot Air Blow Dry Brush - See at Amazon

Best for fine hair: BaBylissPRO Titanium Rotating Hot Air Brush - See at Amazon

Best for all hair types: Drybar The Double Shot Blow-Dryer Brush - See at Nordstrom

Best for thick hair: Infiniti Pro by Conair Spin Air Rotating Styler - See at Walmart

Best for short hair:  Revlon One Step Root Booster Round Brush Dryer and Hair Styler - See at Amazon

Best budget: Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer And Volumizer Hot Air Brush - See at Amazon

Best for long hair: Bed Head One Step Volumizer and Hair Dryer - See at Amazon

Best for oily hair: Hot Tools Professional Charcoal-Infused One-Step Blowout Styling Tool - See at Walmart

Best for dense curly hair: Amika Hair Blow Dryer Brush 2.0 - See at Sephora

Best splurge: Dyson Airwrap Complete Styler - See at Sephora

Best under $50: Trademark Beauty Babe Waves Easy Blo Single Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer - See at Trademark Beauty

travel hair blow dryer

This was our favorite blow dryer brushes for thick hair. Our writer who reviewed this loved "the cool shot button and volume booster switch, the latter of which helps create extra-tousled and textured tresses." This is the lowest price we've ever seen it.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Built-in microchip helps regulate even heat distribution
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Two interchangeable attachments for customizable styling options
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Bulky handle
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. High price point may be a turn-off for some

The T3 Airebrush Duo is our pick for the best blow dryer brush overall based on my own extensive testing. It comes with two attachments (one 2.5-inch round brush and one 3-inch paddle brush), which makes styling a breeze. I like to start with the round brush before switching to the paddle brush to eliminate frizzy roots. 

Other highlights include the cool shot button and volume booster switch, the latter of which helps create extra-tousled and textured tresses. Plus, the built-in microchip — which helps regulate temperature to ensure an even distribution of heat — is another nice touch. To top it off, users can choose from a whopping 15 heat and speed combinations.

travel hair blow dryer

The BaByliss Hot Air Brush has an ergonomic handle and anti-static rotating brush that fits easily into the average daily hair routine.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Barrel self-rotates in two directions
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Antistatic bristles reduce frizz
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Not ideal for short hair

Hairstylist Michelle DeMartino has dubbed BaBylissPRO's Titanium Rotating Hot Air Brush "the perfect styling tool for anyone with fine hair looking to achieve more volume." Users can also select from three heat settings based on their hair type and texture. According to the stylist, the device's rotating brush is a huge plus since it helps prevent hair from overheating and getting damaged.

travel hair blow dryer

We've received lots of praise for this blow dryer brush from our testers and professional stylists alike. One stylist says: "I was able to achieve some great volume (with the help of some product) and I feel like it was able to do a whole blowout in an impressive amount of time."

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Adds visible shine
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Fights frizz while boosting volume
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Not ideal for tight curls
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Those with extra-long or thick hair may need to run their strands through a regular blow-dryer before going in with this product to remove excess moisture before styling

The Double Shot Blow-Dryer Brush from Drybar comes highly recommended by hairstylist Gina Rivera. The stylist has deemed the Double Shot "great for reducing frizz, good for all hair types, and excellent for creating volume" — all despite the tool's slightly higher price point. 

The 2.44-inch barrel also features a combination of nylon and tufted bristles for a secure yet gentle grip. "This is a tool that combines the hot air of a blow-dryer with the structure of a round brush to create a smooth, shiny blowout with tons of volume!" Rivera tells Insider.

See our full review of the Drybar Double Shot Blow Dryer Brush .

travel hair blow dryer

This rotating blow dryer brush from Conair rotates as you use it — saving you time, effort, and energy when styling thick hair.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Rotates as you use it — saving you time, effort, and energy
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Great for thick hair
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only two heat settings

If you hate twisting, flipping, and twirling your thick hair to achieve your desired results, then consider this Air Rotating Styler from Infiniti Pro by Conair. This rotating brush spins in both directions, making it easy to style your strands sans the strenuous arm workout that often follows (because let's face it, blow drying is a low-key workout). Plus, the boar and nylon bristles work together to glide through knots and smooth strands. Choose from two heat settings.

travel hair blow dryer

This blow dryer is especially great for folks with short hair thanks to its small barrel size (1.5 inches).

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Small barrel is ideal for those with shorter hair
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Conversely, since the barrel is so small, it will take more time to style longer hair

The Revlon One Step Root Booster Round Brush Dryer and Hair Styler is especially great for folks with short hair thanks to its small barrel size (1.5 inches).The ultra-versatile styling tool can be used to create all sorts of waves, flips, and curls — all while reducing frizz and boosting volume. Plus, the ceramic-coated barrel provides an even distribution of heat. Users can also select from three heat/speed settings: Smooth, shiny strands await. However, it is worth noting that the blow dryer brush is not detachable, so there are not any attachment options. 

travel hair blow dryer

The Revlon One-Step Volumizer is a blow dryer brush that delivers frizz-free at-home blowouts.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Great value
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Condenses a flat iron and blow dryer into one tool
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Doesn’t include attachments
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Overuse of highest heat setting can cause dryness

Revlon's One-Step Hair Dryer And Volumizer Hot Air Brush is the OG of blow dryer brushes — and, at just $35, it's a total steal. Hairstylist Genevieve Garner tells Insider she "absolutely loves" the all-in-one blowdryer and hairbrush combo.

Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands of reviewers — including myself — have raved about the One-Step's large, 4.2-inch barrel that makes styling a breeze. The oval-shaped brush also features two types of bristles for smoothing and detangling. Plus, I've found the cool setting to be incredibly convenient for preserving my curls.

travel hair blow dryer

Thanks to its extra-large barrel size, this blow dryer brush is great for people with long hair.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Extra-large barrel size is great for people with long hair
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Those with medium- or short-length hair may be better off with a smaller barrel

The Bed Head One Step Volumizer and Hair Dryer has a large 4.5-inch-wide barrel. What's more, those with long hair will appreciate the size of this barrel since it covers more surface area than the traditional blow dryer brush, which can help shave off some styling time. The pretty pink hue is an added bonus, as is the built-in tourmaline ceramic technology to nix frizz and boost shine. 

travel hair blow dryer

This blow dryer brush boasts charcoal-infused bristles to combat oily strands.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Charcoal-infused bristles
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Good for those with oily strands
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Can get pretty noisy

"This product was designed for people with oily hair because the bristles are infused with charcoal, which helps to absorb oils naturally," DeMartino says of the Hot Tools Professional Charcoal-Infused One-Step Blowout Styling Tool. The results? Near-perfect, salon-worthy strands that last for days on end. 

While the charcoal-infused bristles are noteworthy, there's another fun feature that sets this blow dryer brush apart from the rest. The barrel surface features real 24K gold, which can help evenly distribute heat to prevent damage.

travel hair blow dryer

This blow dryer has a lightweight design (under one pound) and innovative technology, which is especially convenient for individuals with denser, curlier hair.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Lightweight design
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Innovative technology comes in especially convenient for individuals with denser, curlier hair
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Large oval barrel may be bulky or a bit more difficult to use for those with short hair

The Amika Hair Blow Dryer Brush 2.0 — an updated version of the brand's best-selling blow dryer brush —  is considered the best blow dryer brush for dense, curly hair, according to hairstylist Glenn Ellis , who is based in Los Angeles and New York.  "There is a bit more space between the bristles, which allows for the hair to glide through but still keep enough tension for that silky smooth shine you get when blow drying," he says.  

travel hair blow dryer

While other curling irons in this guide rely on high heat to style your hair, the Dyson AirWrap Styler uses air for damage-free curls and waves.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Features innovative technology to protect hair from overheating
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Comes with a whopping six attachments
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. At over $500, it's a splurge that's not for everyone

Unless you've been living under a rock, you've likely seen the Dyson Airwrap come across your social media feed at least several times over the past year or so. Several hair pros flooded my inbox to sing the Airwrap's praises, including stylists Devin Toth of Salon SCK in New York. "It's the most improved and most advanced blow dryer brush on the market," Toth tells Insider.   

However, this isn't your traditional blow dryer brush — and not just because it's incredibly expensive at nearly $550. The Airwrap utilizes innovative technology to pull hair towards the device. The built-in thermistor helps regulate temperature and prevent your strands from burning. It also comes with six attachments, including a round brush, flat brush, and several curling barrels.

travel hair blow dryer

This ultra-lightweight blow dryer brush comes complete with combination bristles, a cool setting, and powerful airflow.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Comes with combination bristles, a cool setting, and powerful airflow
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. The barrel is large — and perhaps may be too large for those with shorter hair

Ditch your basic, bulky hairdryer in favor of the Trademark Beauty Easy Blo. Weighing just under one pound, this blow dryer brush is among the lightest on the market. And, according to Amy Abramite, Creative Director and Stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, the tool "checks all the boxes for a great beauty buy." The cool setting is a bonus, as are the combination bristles (nylon to detangle and boar to smooth and tame frizz). 

"I have tried other dryers, and this model stands out for its lightweight design and powerful airflow," the stylist tells Insider. Additionally, according to Abramite, this tool offers users the chance to "quickly get a salon-quality blowout without fatigue from the weight of the tool, which typically accompanies high wattage dryers."

What to look for in a blow dryer brush

When shopping for the best blow dryer brushes on the market, keep in mind all of the below:

The shape of the blow dryer brush directly impacts the type of result you'll get. For example, paddle dryer brushes, such as Dyson's flat attachment, are great for producing straight, sleek blowouts. On the other hand, round or oval-shaped brushes, such as the Revlon One Step and Drybar Double Shot, are ideal for bouncier, more voluminous blowouts. 

When it comes to finding the best blow dryer brush to suit your individual needs, size definitely does matter. Put simply, the smaller the barrel, the tighter the curl. Wider barrels, on the other hand, create loose waves and flips in a matter of minutes. In terms of range, the smallest barrels over around 1.25 to 1.5 inches while the largest ones — such as the Bedhead One Step Volumizer — clock in at 4.5 inches. 

Ionic technology

While there are dozens of great options on the market, keep in mind that the best blow dryer brushes feature ionic technology , which is supposed to help minimize frizz and enhance shine. The result? Frizz-free, softer strands in mere minutes. Also, keep in mind that you don't need to shell out half a week's paycheck on a blow-dryer brush: There are plenty of great affordable options and dupes out there, too!

Bristle material

As you shop for the best blow dryer brush, consider the bristle material. It's also worth noting that some of the best blow dryer brushes contain a combination of different bristles.  Nylon bristles are firm yet gentle (which means they won't cause tugging or tanging), while silicone bristles are more flexible. Boar bristles are made of — you guessed it — the hair of boars. These natural bristles easily glide through the hair while gently massaging the scalp. This can help minimize frizz, too. While different bristle types have different benefits, Toth recommends looking for a blow dryer brush that contains both boar and nylon bristles, which can be found in picks like the Conair Hot Air Spin Brush.  

If you're a frequent flier and always on the move, consider the voltage of your blow dryer brush, as some may not be suitable for travel. For example, some of the best blow dryer brushes on the market are only designed for domestic use. (The standard in the US is between 110 and 120V, while in Europe and Asia, the standard is 220-240V.)  respectively  Alternatively, should you be searching for a blow dryer brush that you can travel with, look for ones that are dual voltage. 

Tips on how to use a blow dryer brush

1. Detangle : Before going in with the blow dryer brush, you'll want to start by detangling your hair . With this in mind, Ellis recommends "combing out each section to ensure its tangle free before going in with the brush." He continues, telling Insider, "To get that smooth look, make sure you are using enough tension!"

2. Remove Excess Moisture: Once you've brushed out your hair, remove excess moisture with a microfiber towel . Ellis tells Insider that removing the excess water makes the hair "more manageable" when using the blow dryer brush. He also notes that if you air-dry or rough-dry hair, it can lead to frizz; however, you also don't want to go in with soaking wet hair since it'll take longer to style. 

3. Spray on Some Heat Protectant : Using a heat protectant spray prior to styling your hair with hot tools is also key to ensuring your hair stays healthy and damage-free. Kenji Ishimoto , a stylist at Salon YOSHIKO at Bergdorf Goodman in New York previously told INSIDER that "heat protectants help to reduce damage to the hair before using heat styling products."

4. Finish Off With Hairspray: Frizzy hair, do care: That's why we recommend applying hairspray , which helps tame fussy frizz and unruly flyways. As a bonus, some of the best hair sprays even offer added protection against humidity and UV damage. 

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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] .

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How to diffuse your hair, according to hairstylists — plus editor-favorite products to use

Woman with curly hair

Flat irons , curling wands , blow dryers — there are endless ways to apply heat to our hair. You might be hesitant to use any of these if you spent years undoing heat damage . But those with curly hair know there's one heated tool that makes all the difference: diffusers.

Shop TODAY asked stylists to break down everything you need to know about diffusers, including how to get the most out of the experience and which ones are actually worth your money.

Purpose | Benefits | Best diffusers | Best pre-style products | More tips | Meet the stylists

Our top picks

Best hair diffusers.

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What does a diffuser do?

A diffuser is a blow dryer attachment with “fingers” that allows a softer, more diffused airflow to the hair instead of applying direct heat from the dryer, explained curl specialist Shawn Harvey and New York City-based stylist Jasmine Burnside.

“A diffuser replicates air-drying but in a faster, more controlled manner,” adds Chicago-based hairstylist Jenna Spino.

Benefits of diffusing hair

While people with curly and wavy hair are likely most familiar with diffusers, Harvey, Spino and Burnside agreed that one of the main benefits of using a diffuser is a reduced amount of frizz for all hair types.

Diffusers are also used to enhance curls you already have or, in some cases, discover waves you didn’t even know were there if your hair is typically straight or slightly wavy, Spino and Burnside both note.

Another benefit Burnside points out is the reduced amount of damage to the hair when you use a diffuser. “I think because you’re not actually running through the hair with a brush , there’s less tension on the strands so it’s actually not as damaging because there’s less friction,” she says.

Best hair diffusers, according to stylists and editors

Universal attachment: rijatragar universal hair diffuser.

Universal Hair Diffuser

Universal Hair Diffuser

  • Universal fit
  • Lightweight design
  • Gets very hot post-use

Type: Attachment | Best for: Curls

Amanda Fama , a commerce editor at Shop TODAY, recently started using this diffuser attachment and says "it works so well." She continues, "I was nervous that it wouldn't fit on my hairdryer, but thanks to the gripper rubber edges, it fits perfectly and stays in place while I dry my hair. It's also super affordable, which is a plus."

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Perfect for travel: YS Park Ion Diffuser

YS Park Ion Diffuser

YS Park Ion Diffuser

  • Easy to use
  • Adjustable straps
  • Slips off hair dryer sometimes
  • Good for traveling

Type: Diffuser attachment

Burnside likes this diffuser for both professionals and the everyday consumer. It attaches to any blow dryer and can easily be packed away due to its soft mesh material. “It diffuses air flow, I would say, even more than any other diffuser that I’ve used,” she raves. She adds that it’s often used on sets and during Fashion Week events due to its portable nature and good quality. If you want to maintain a glossy look but need the hair to be dry, she recommends this diffuser.

Large surface area: Xtava Black Orchid Hair Diffuser

Black Orchid Hair Diffuser For Curly And Natural Hair - Professional Blow Dryer Diffuser to Maximize Frizz-Free Volume And Enhance Natural Curly Hair by xtava

Black Orchid Hair Diffuser

  • Easy to dry roots
  • Shoppers say adds volume
  • Doesn't fit all dryers
  • Smaller size

Harvey mentions this popular diffuser from Xtava. It has fingers in multiple sizes for an all-encompassing drying session, leaving no area unaddressed.

The viral pick: Shark FlexStyle Curl-Defining Diffuser

Shark XSKHD4DA FlexStyle Curl-Defining Diffuser, Attachment for Shark FlexStyle Blow Dryers, Styling Tool for Wavy, Curly, and Coily Hair, Enhance Natural Curls, Extendable Prongs, Stone

FlexStyle Curl-Defining Diffuser

  • Adjustable for short and long hair
  • Quick and efficient for drying hair
  • Some shoppers say it doesn't always fit Shark dryer

Shark once went viral on TikTok for their multi-attachment air styling tool but did you know they also have a version for curly hair? It's a favorite of Shop TODAY deputy editorial director Ali Deabler when she diffuses her wavy hair. The attachment has retractable prongs so you can customize it to work best for your hair length and type.

Multiple choices: Pattern The Pattern Blow Dryer

The Pattern Blow Dryer

The Pattern Blow Dryer

  • Great for styling
  • Lightweight and easy for travel
  • Some shoppers say air isn't hot

Type: Blow dryer + attachments

Last month, Pattern released their first hot tool with the goal of reshaping the relationship between curly hair and heat. Aside from the beautiful neutral tone that's consistent throughout the tool down to the literal wire, it comes with four different attachments designed with curly girls in mind.

I received this blow dryer from the brand to try and was immediately impressed when I used the diffuser. It easily gets to my roots and I've also found that it's wide enough to dry a decent chunk of hair at once which helps save time. Plus, the dryer itself isn't deafeningly loud so you can safely dry your hair at night without disturbing anyone.

The dryer with an "IQ": Shark HD332 SpeedStyle

HD332 SpeedStyle

HD332 SpeedStyle

  • Dries hair super fast
  • Intuitive diffuser
  • Includes different attachments
  • It's a little loud

Deabler also recommends this hairdryer from Shark, which includes various attachments (including, of course, the diffuser). She says, "The Shark diffuser is great. It has 'IQ,' which means it adjusts the heat and dryer speed depending on the attachment you’re using."

Worth the splurge: Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

Special Edition Supersonic Hair Dryer

Supersonic Hair Dryer

  • Dries hair quickly
  • shoppers say hair feels soft
  • Higher price

Both Harvey and Burnside sing the praises of the Dyson blow dryer with the diffuser attachment. Harvey calls it "one of the most efficient" tools she's used for diffusing hair and Burnside calls it one of her "holy grail" diffusers. The standard blow dryer is $400 but for $30 more, you can get this all-in-one set with the blow dryer and five additional pieces including a diffuser. It's cheaper than buying the original dryer and diffuser attachment separately.

Best products to use before diffusing hair, according to stylists and editors

Gentle on your hair: twist & tie microfiber hair towel.

Twist & Tie Microfiber Hair Towel

Twist & Tie Microfiber Hair Towel

  • Very absorbent 
  • Easy to tie on head
  • Some shoppers say smaller size

Product type: Hair towel | Material: Microfiber | Use for: Removing "excess water" from hair

Harvey recommends using a microfiber towel to remove excess water from your hair, which will help with frizz and cut down overall drying time. With this option from Well Tressed, you can twist your hair inside the towel and tie it to keep it in place or use it for a quick and gentle pat dry.

Helps with frizz: JVN Complete Air Dry Cream

JVN Complete Air Dry Cream -

Complete Air Dry Cream

  • Low-maintenance product, easy to use
  • Good for fine strands, doesn't weigh them down
  • Doesn't tame frizz as well

Product type: Hair cream | Key ingredients: Chai seed extract, Hemisqualane , moringa seed oil | Use for: Adding shine while styling

Annie Shigo , a social media editorial assistant at Shop TODAY, is a fan of this air-drying cream. She tells us, "I use this cream all the time to keep my frizz at bay especially when I am diffusing or styling my hair."

Perfect for diffusing prep: Bumble & bumble. Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Heat/UV Protective Primer

Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Heat/UV Protective Primer

Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Heat/UV Protective Primer

  • Cruelty free
  • Detangles and moisturizes hair
  • Shoppers said made hair greasy

Product type: Hair primer | Key ingredients: Signature 6 oil blend and UV filters | Use for: Adding hydration and eliminating frizz

When prepping your hair before diffusing, Burnside likes to use this invisible oil as a leave-in conditioner. “It’s really nourishing without being heavy,” she says.

A multitasking cream: Virtue 6-in-1 Styler

6-In-1 Styler

6-In-1 Styler

  • Smooths and moisturizes hair
  • Some shoppers said made hair greasy

Product type: Style cream | Ingredients: Vitamin B, cypress and strengthening polymers | Use for: Protecting hair while styling

This styling cream from Virtue touts six benefits including heat protection , softness, shine, light hydration and strengthened and polished hair. Burnside likes that it helps tackle frizz and has a hold factor. “I like to use something that has a little bit of style memory, just to encourage the overall styling goal to hold throughout the day,” she shares.

Tips for diffusing hair

Prep with the right products. Burnside’s key tip for diffusing is to make sure you start with properly prepped hair, starting from when you hop into the shower. She recommends brushing your hair before you get in the shower, followed by using a nourishing shampoo and conditioner . You should also comb the conditioner through your hair in the shower for even distribution.

Once your hair is washed, apply a conditioning product like a leave-in conditioner or something that “has a hold factor,” Burnside said, followed by a moisturizing cream or hydrating mousse. Both she and Spino recommend scrunching the product into your hair instead of raking it through to avoid too much friction.

Try to touch your hair as little as possible. We know how difficult it is to not mess with your hair all the time, but every stylist strongly advised against touching your hair with your hands or with the diffuser. “I think a lot of people tend to…touch the diffuser with the hair which can encourage more frizziness as the hair dries. You don’t want the hair to touch the diffuser at all,” Harvey said.

If you absolutely must make contact with your hair post-wash and product application, Burnside recommends using a wide tooth comb instead of a brush.

Tilt your head to diffuse. Harvey recommends tilting your head forward or to the side and diffusing your hair from the bottom, holding the dryer four to six inches away from your hair and letting it rest there. Leaning forward and allowing your hair to flip over can also help the hair dry more evenly and get more coverage with the diffuser, she added. If you’re going to flip over, she recommends getting the ends of the hair somewhat dry first before doing so.

Avoid overdrying your tresses. Spino suggests stopping once your hair is about 80 percent dry. Despite the concentrated airflow a diffuser provides, it’s still possible to overheat the hair, which can cause it to become frizzy. She recommends using high heat on a low blow setting to start, then finishing up with a quick blast of cool air to “set the shape.”

How we chose

We chose diffusers, hairdryers with diffuser attachments, and pre-diffusing hair products after speaking with professional hairstylists. They provided advice what a diffuser is (and the benefits of using one), along with some of their favorite products. We also included editor picks from the Shop TODAY team.

Meet the stylists

  • Shawn Harvey is the co-owner of Curls, Kinks and Coils Curl Studio in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
  • Jasmine Burnside is a New York City-based hairstylist that specialized in editorial, commercial and wedding hair.
  • Jenna Spino is a hairstylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, Illinois. She specializes in long layers and soft curls.

travel hair blow dryer

Kamari Stewart is an Associate Editor for Shop TODAY.

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