The Most Compact, Lightweight, and Portable Travel Hair Dryers for Your Next Trip (2024)

Updated on March 5, 2024

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 ourhair looked quite shiny after use. It has three heat settings and two speed settings, plus a cool shot setting that locks in your style. A bonus for international travelers: The dual-voltage dryer automatically adapts so you don’t need to pack a converter (though you may need a plug adapter, depending on your destination).

The Details: 12.2 ounces | 1500 watts

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

The Details: 12.32 ounces

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 to help strengthen weak, brittle hair and promote growth. There are four modes (from 160 to 296 degrees Fahrenheit) and three speed settings, as well as a memory function. Though we appreciated the product’s quick-drying ability and the results that left hair smooth without noticeable damage, we found the button placement a tad inconvenient.

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

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

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

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

The Details: 10.5 ounces | 1200 watts

No doubt about it: the Dyson SuperSonic Hair Dryer is the Rolls Royce of hair dryers. Though the price is steep, hairstylists and beauty enthusiasts alike swear by its unparalleled ability to dry hair more quickly and effectively than standard dryers — and after our lab tests, we agreed! We were thoroughly impressed by the hair dryer’s strong air flow and many of us never even needed to use full power because the lower settings were effective enough (still, people with very thick hair will certainly appreciate the max capacity setting). We also agreed that, with heat settings from 82 to 212 degrees Fahrenheit (plus a cool shot option) and 1600 watts of power, it dried our hair in record time compared to other hair dryers, while also giving flat hair flippy, bouncy volume.

Dyson’s wide array of attachments also sets it apart from competitors. This model includes five magnetic attachments for a variety of hair types, including a styling concentrator, a diffuser, a gentle air attachment, a wide-tooth comb, and a flyaway attachment that gives straight or straightened hair a smooth, sleek finish. It also comes with a convenient case cushioned with soft fabric to store all the attachments and protect the hair dryer from scratches. It is important to note that Dyson does not recommend using this product outside the U.S. as an adaptor or converter can cause permanent damage to the motor.

The Details: 1.8 pounds | 9.6 x 3.8 x 3.1 inches | 1600 watts

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. It helps reduce frizz and boost shine thanks to ceramic tourmaline technology. We were quite happy with the effects for the price. It has three heat settings and two speed settings.

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

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, paddle brush attachment, as well as a concentrator blow-dryer. While it isn't the best for curling, 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. Flyaways are tamed and sections of hair that usually become frizzy and staticky after drying were smoothed after using this brush. When you don't have time to head out to a Drybar salon, this device is an excellent one-stop-shop.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the best way to pack a hair dryer for travel?

  If your hair dryer comes with a carrying case or pouch, place the dryer inside the pouch before adding it to your suitcase. A garment 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.

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

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

• Can I use a universal travel adapter for hair dryers?

  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, like the Dyson SuperSonic, should not be used outside of your home country for this reason. 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.
  

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

Updated by