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The 8 Best Travel Irons in 2023 [Portable, Dual Voltage]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

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Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

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Things To Consider When Buying a Travel Iron

1. mini steam iron with dual voltage, 2. compact and easy-to-use iron, 3. lots of features in a compact iron, 4. lightweight travel iron with 360-degree swivel cord, 5. mini project steam iron with ceramic soleplate, 6. easy to use and portable iron, 7. 800-watt handheld steam iron, 8. 3 temperature settings in a compact iron, final thoughts.

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We’d all rather look well-groomed while traveling. However, any traveler is familiar with the headache of opening your suitcase only to find all your clothes limp and wrinkled.

The most convenient tool for addressing this problem is the travel iron. This handy tool is specially designed to fit in your suitcase and is powerful enough to keep you looking tidy. Choosing the best travel iron can be intimidating, but we will guide you through the whole process.

It’s important to know what to look for when you are setting out to buy a travel iron. Perhaps your foremost consideration will be the size and weight of the iron in order to maximize your luggage storage space.

But there are several other factors to keep in mind, including the iron’s power and heat control. Let’s dig a little deeper into these aspects.

Weight and Size

One of the biggest advantages travel irons have over regular ones is their weight. Made to be easily portable in your luggage, they weigh significantly less than regular irons. Look for an iron that weighs approximately 1 pound .

As for size, a travel iron is built to fit perfectly into your suitcase or travel bag. This convenient tool’s dimensions typically vary from 6 to 8 inches in length.

Ease of Use

When it comes to a travel iron’s ease of use, there are a couple of things you should be aware of. First, take a good look at the handle and see if it looks comfortable . A functional handle will go a long way in making your iron usable. Second, the best travel irons include motion-sensitive technology, helping you iron faster and with greater precision.

On top of that, there are some really interesting additional features you can look out for, like anti-drip or water-spraying features, both of which contribute to overall ease of use when it comes to ironing.

Heat Control

If you’re looking at an iron without the option to control the heat level, think again. Any travel iron on your shortlist should have this ability. You don’t want to iron synthetic clothes with the same level of heat as cotton clothes.

Hot Tip: Look for an iron that has printed indicators on the swivel that denote exactly what each level is for.

If you are traveling to a different country, look for an iron with dual voltage . You will likely be dealing with different voltages, which can render your travel iron useless.

If you plug your iron into a higher voltage source, you run the risk of frying it.

Similarly, power is an important consideration when choosing a travel iron. Simply speaking, more powerful irons are made for heavier clothes or fabrics that are hard to iron. So, choose wisely, and if you plan on straightening heavier clothes like hoodies or jeans, find a 1,000-watt iron that can handle the job .

On the other hand, lighter clothes like t-shirts and shorts will not require a powerful iron.

Portability

Weigh the portability of your travel iron against its power output. You don’t want to have to make room for a huge iron in your suitcase at the expense of something else.

Most travel irons are specially designed to ensure maximum portability, but it’s still something to consider.

The 8 Best Travel Irons

Now that we’ve discussed exactly what to look for in a travel iron let’s take a look at some of the best ones available. We’ve compiled a list of the best options that are versatile and will satisfy all of your expectations for a travel iron.

Steamfast Super Convenient Iron

Steamfast offers a compact travel iron that comes with a lot of features. With 420 watts of power, this iron is built to handle just about any kind of fabric.

In addition, the dual-voltage feature will come in handy if you travel overseas to a location with a different voltage. This iron is made to work flawlessly between 100 and 240 volts , which will allow you to use it on any continent.

Lastly, the overall design is quite interesting and compact. This iron is only 5.2 inches in length and weighs 1 pound, which will save you a lot of space when packing. On top of that, the comfortable anti-slip handle will ensure a good grip for ease of use.

What We Like

• Comes with a traveling bag

What We Don’t Like

• Using steam mode might cause drips

BLACK DECKER Easy Steam Iron

This specially designed iron will allow you to easily straighten every wrinkle out of your clothes. It works well on heavier clothes as well, so consider this one if you’re traveling somewhere cold.

This iron’s anti-drip technology is engineered to prevent dripping by maintaining the correct water temperature to generate steam . This feature also regulates the amount of steam produced in line with the temperature setting. On top of that, this iron features a pivoting cord and 3-way automatic shut-off for ultimate user convenience.

Possibly the best thing about it is the TrueGlide nonstick soleplate, which is designed to glide smoothly over any fabric. There’s also a push-button spray-mist feature that further moistens fabrics to eliminate deep wrinkles.

• Lots of features and easy to use
• Not as small as other travel irons

Hot Tip: Consider our guide to the best portable travel steamers , as well!

Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot 800 Watt Iron

If you’re looking for compatibility and ease of use, this travel iron is a good choice. The well-known Sunbeam brand once again nailed it with this feature-rich iron. For starters, this iron has a dual-voltage system that will allow you to use it just about anywhere in the world.

On top of that, the soft-touch handle with an ergonomically-designed shape will allow you to glide the iron smoothly over fabric, applying pressure as needed . A convenient swivel in the front will allow you to choose the most suitable heat setting.

All in all, if you’re looking for a compact, easy-to-use, and convenient travel iron, you can’t go wrong with this one.

• Slick and compact design
• Steam function can leak

Utopia HomeSteam Iron

Even though this iron is made for in-home use, it’s also a great travel companion. With 1,200 watts and a 360-degree swivel cord, the Utopia Home Steam Iron will ensure your clothes are pressed with minimal effort.

A lightweight and compact design makes this iron a great choice for travel as well. In addition, it features adjustable thermostat control, protection from overheating, and a nonstick soleplate that ensures a smooth glide over any fabric.

Also, this iron is quite easy to use both vertically and horizontally. The steam-ironing feature allows you to steam your clothes while they’re on a hanger or remove wrinkles from curtains and drapes if the need arises.

• Multifunctionality and ease of use
• It’s hard to fill the water tank without spilling

Oliso Ceramic Iron

This Oliso ceramic iron is specially designed to ensure maximum heat control and ease of use. On top of that, it is compact and lightweight, making it a great option for travel. This iron’s soleplate is made of high-quality ceramic with a precision tip that will allow you to easily press cuffs and collars.

Furthermore, it comes with a fabric-selector option that’s very useful for those who like to pack a variety of fabrics. Additionally, you can use it anywhere in the world as this iron features a dual-voltage design.

• Fabric-selector feature
• Handle heats up when used extensively

Rowenta DA1560 Travel-Ready Iron

With a compact design and an ergonomic handle, this Rowenta travel iron is a standout in its field. It’s made with ease of use and portability in mind, but it remains powerful enough to remove every wrinkle on your clothes, no matter the fabric.

You can use this iron both vertically and horizontally for a long period of time, thanks to the 2-ounce transparent water tank and dual-voltage switch . All in all, if you’re looking for a compact and easy-to-use iron that removes all wrinkles, this is a top pick.

• Easy to maneuver and has a stainless-steel soleplate
• The cord is not that long

Conair EZ Press Iron

This Conair handheld iron was designed with comfort and portability in mind. It features 800 watts of power, which is enough to iron almost anything. On top of that, its compact size and lightweight construction will allow you to easily carry it in your suitcase or backpack.

The stainless-steel soleplate ensures a smooth glide over fabric, especially cotton and synthetic clothes. There is also an anti-slip heel on the bottom of the iron for maximum protection from unwanted contact .

• Steam burst feature that eliminates hard wrinkles
• Takes a bit more time to heat up

Sharper Image Convenient Iron

The first thing you’ll notice about the Sharper Image travel iron is its sleek and minimalist design. With a simple color scheme and an in-handle water tank, this iron is designed with functionality and comfort in mind. In addition, it features a quick heat-up time and 3 temperature settings , allowing you to easily remove all wrinkles from any type of clothing.

Additionally, thanks to the dual-voltage feature, this travel iron is equipped for use all over the world. Its 350 watts of power and nonstick rust-resistant soleplate will no doubt serve you well on your journey.

• Quick heating
• Lacks the power of some other irons

Now that you are well-acquainted with the benefits of travel irons, you won’t want to travel without one. Their useful features and compact design will come in handy on every trip.

All in all, we strongly recommend traveling with an iron. Tidy up your appearance and project confidence with a freshly pressed wardrobe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a travel iron.

If you tend to travel a lot, especially in a professional capacity, it’s hard to get around the necessity for a travel iron. Travel irons are made to travel with you and keep you looking polished.

Are hotels equipped with irons?

Not all hotels have travel irons. Of course, you can always check with reception before you arrive at a hotel. But, with a travel iron in your suitcase, you will be prepared either way.

How much does a travel iron weigh?

There are different models on the market with different weights. However, a standard travel iron weighs around 1 or 2 pounds.

Is ironing easy with a travel iron?

Most travel irons prioritize ease of use, with everything from non-stick soleplates to comfortable handles.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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What’s the Best Travel Iron? These Are the Top 10 Picks

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Irons can be a lifesaver when it comes to turning a wrinkled tee into a stylish and sleek top. But they can also be heavy and a pain to pack. Luckily, we found the perfect middle ground. Find out what tops our list as the best travel iron, and the options that can make traveling a breeze!

Best Travel Iron

If you’re headed out for a business trip or a special vacation, you can’t always count on every hotel or Airbnb to accommodate with a high quality (or even workable) iron.

If you’re a little finicky about using an iron provided or just want to be on the safe side, some of the best travel irons can easily fit into your luggage without taking up too much space.

Here’s a quick review of the best travel irons. You can read more about each one in the article below.

Look sharp and wrinkle-free with our ranking of the best travel irons that include several amazing features, such as portability, heating time, dual voltage, and steam functions.

Downy Wrinkle Releaser Plus 3 Fl Oz.

Downy Wrinkle Releaser Spray

Before we look at our top travel irons, let’s talk about our favorite alternative: a wrinkle releaser spray. Some of us hate ironing at home, let alone on vacation. Cue the Downy Wrinkle Releaser. We, and our readers, love this product. While it may not get out wrinkles as effectively as an iron, it does an amazing job for a spray.

One traveler says, “I took this on my 3 week road trip, and it actually helped revive some pretty wrinkly skirts, and made them smell nice. I recommend you de-wrinkle the night before you plan on wearing your items because they need a little time to relax and dry out.”

FiSun Travel Iron

FiSun Mini Travel Iron

For a travel iron that won’t fail you while traveling, the FiSun Travel Iron offers 700 watts for lower power consumption. The built-in fuse and thermostat conveniently allow you to use the iron worldwide safely and securely. The teflon base nonstick soleplate of this travel iron glides easily over all fabric types to smooth out wrinkles on all fabrics.

One traveler shared, “one thing that I really like this iron is that I can bring it everywhere. It is portable so I can bring it when I travel. It is easy to use and it works great.”

Ivation Mini Steam Iron

Ivation No-Drip Mini Steam Iron

A travel iron that has every feature you can think of, the Ivation Mini Steam Iron features a dual voltage, no-stick sole plate and 3 temperature settings. One female traveler shared, “I love, love, love this little iron. It heats very fast, steams – just very easy to handle.” All the qualities we expect in the best travel iron!

The large water tank allows you to conveniently use the steam feature that is just as effective as any larger iron. This also means you don’t have to pack a steamer. The 15-second heat up time works effectively for beautifully smooth results. The tiny iron is ultra-powerful with a 420-Watt technology and nonstick ceramic soleplate.

Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot

Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot 800 Watt Travel Iron

Sunbeam is known for its inexpensive appliances for the house, including this iron. This dual voltage features all things necessary for a quality mini iron to travel with, the Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot compact and weights under 2 pounds.

With a soft touch handle and dial controls heat setting to provide accurate ironing for various fabric types. For stubborn wrinkles, the shot of steam feature presses out wrinkles for a smooth, even finish. Need more praise? Take it from this traveler: “I have owned four travel irons over the years but this is the first that did not spit – not once – or leave wet spots on clothes that take forever to get out.”

Sokos Iron Master Steam

Another great option for a tiny, compact travel iron is the Sokos Iron Master Steam. As one person shared, “It is the perfect size for travel since it doesn’t take up much space in a suitcase.”

With its anti-drip feature, you won’t have to worry about water drips that could stain delicate fabrics. The adjustable temperature controls the heat setting to use on any type of fabric. The best feature, by far, is the retractable cord making it convenient to carry in your luggage and use in hotel rooms with minimal outlets.

Travel Smart by Conair

Conair Mini Travel Iron

With a very convenient and compact design, the Travel Smart by Conair offers worldwide dual voltage with an 8-foot cord and convenient storage pouch, making it perfect for travelers. One traveler says, “traveling with a big iron takes valuable suitcase space, so I took the travel iron. It served the purpose perfectly – small space, big heat.”

If you love small, lightweight irons for traveling, this is one that is worth checking out! In the running for the best travel iron, this one is ideal if you want a simple design for quick touch-ups.

Steamfast (SF717) Home-and-Away Mini Steam Iron

Steamfast Home-and-Away Mini Steam Iron

So many travelers love the Steamfast and rank it as one of the best irons. It takes just 15 seconds to heat up and the non-stick soleplate is tiny enough to get into corners that larger irons can’t reach. Plus, it has dual voltage for easy travel and a travel bag to use for storage.

One traveler says, “I’ve had this for 5 years now, and it ALWAYS follows me overseas. It plugs right in to 220V without a setting (must be some sort of auto switch), and I use just a basic outlet converter. As one happy customer, I gladly recommend this travel iron.”

Tupus Smart Mini Iron

What could be better than the World’s Smallest Hand Held Iron? How about a quirky design and a built-in thermal sensor technology with smart features? All this fits into a compact size.

Tupus Smart Mini Iron comes in at just half the size of your palm and offers universal voltage to be used around the world. The ultra-small size can easily iron tight areas of your garments from between buttons, necklines, and cuffs. One traveler said, “This little guy is amazing. They weren’t kidding on how tiny it is, yet it sure pumps out the heat.”

PurSteam Travel Steam

PurSteam Travel Steam Iron

This iron touts itself as the ultimate travel steam iron in the U.S. and was designed to be the most powerful  and continuous superheated steamer available. With dual voltage, you can take this anywhere in the world and only need a plug adaptor, which is why this makes our list for the best travel iron.

Along with an a nti-slip handle and non-stick soleplate, the travel iron comes with a 6.5 foot power cord.

One person says, “I travel a lot for work and pleasure and wanted a travel iron that wouldn’t take up too much room in my suitcase. This iron is perfect. It weighs one pound so it’s not too light that it won’t get wrinkles out but not too heavy in my suitcase.”

Hamilton Beach Travel Iron

The Hamilton Beach Travel Iron is an iron and steamer combined that is compact in size and design, which makes it great for bringing along on trips. The compact design and foldable handle is ideal for storing in your luggage or carryon for those who love to travel light. The stainless steel soleplate prevents even the most delicate fabrics to be free from wrinkles and creases.

It’s also traveler-approved, as one adventurer shared, “I travel constantly for work and wanted to get an iron that I could travel with that wouldn’t weigh my bag down. This one does an amazing job both ironing and steaming my work shirts and trousers.”

Black & Decker Easy Steam

Black & Decker Easy Steam Compact Iron

The Black & Decker Easy Steam is an ultra-compact iron with its TrueGlide nonstick soleplate to smoothly iron across all types of fabrics. The steam accurately optimizes based on the temperature you select and the fabric. Get a quick burst of steam to get rid of wrinkles and creases with the handy side-by-side moisture control buttons.

One person says, “this iron is amazingly light. In fact, it is so light that I questioned whether it was heavy enough to get out the tougher wrinkles. I had a pile of shirts that had been waiting two weeks when this arrive, and it took the wrinkles out without a problem.”

These compact and handy mini irons will save you from wrinkles, creases and beyond during your vacation.

What do you think are the best travel irons? Please share in the comments!

For more tips and ideas on travel clothing, please read:

• How to Organize like a Pro
• How to Pack More Efficiently
• How to Pack Clothes Without Wrinkles
• How to Make Clothes Smell Fresh on the Go

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I hope you liked this post on the best travel irons. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

I also really like the downy wrinkle releaser. I took it with me on a school trip and it worked well enough to get by; not to mention it was easy to carry. I have never considered a travel iron before. I have considered purchasing a travel steamer but never commit due to the varying reviews. Would you recommend an iron over a steamer?

Hi Bety, personally I prefer a steamer but some travelers like using an iron. It really depends on personal preference ?

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Keep Your Clothes Looking Great Even When You’re Jet Lagged With a Travel Iron

By Allison Bowsher

Allison Bowsher

Contributor

• Share This Article

Even with the hundreds of YouTube folding tutorials , a wide range of packing cubes , and hours spent meticulously preparing items, many travelers still open their suitcase at the end of a long flight to find wrinkled clothes. Just because you have jet leg doesn’t mean your clothes should look like they do as well. With a travel iron, it’s easy to look your best even when you’re not sure what time zone you’re in.

Many hotels and vacation rentals come equipped with complimentary irons, but these can often house germs since they are not cleaned as frequently as other high-touch areas, like beddings, towels and sinks. If your trip includes staying with friends or family, they may not have an iron available for you to use.

Then there’s the argument for using travel irons without the ‘travel’ action. Many travel irons included on our list come with an impressive level of power and offer both ironing and steaming capabilities. For customers who are short on space in their home and for those who only require the use of an iron or steamer periodically, travel irons offer a more financially feasible option and one that won’t take up excess cupboard space.

Travel irons are also a great option for crafters as they can get into the corners of smaller pieces of fabric better than a full-size iron. They are often available at a lower price point as well, which is good news in the case of accidental glue or paint spillage.

Wrinkles aren’t a good look in any country. Keep your clothes looking their best even when you’re short on space with a powerful and useful travel iron.

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The modern status showdown is 40,000 feet in the air, the traveler’s choice luggage set is under $160 for amazon’s big spring sale, 1. pursteam travel steamer and iron.

BEST OVERALL

Affordable, powerful, small. These are the three main criteria to look for when searching for a new travel iron and the steamer and iron combo from PurSteam has all these features and more. The compact travel iron has an impressive 800 watts of power behind it, producing up to 50% more steam than other industry favorites. We like that customers get an iron and a steamer in one without buying two gadgets. The dual voltage design of the PurSteam makes it appropriate for international travel and we like that the modern design of the iron also includes an anti-slip handle and nonstick soleplate.

PurSteam Travel Steamer and Iron

2. rowenta travel-ready compact steam iron.

MOST COMFORTABLE TO USE

If you want the power of a full-sized travel iron without the bulk, we recommend the Rowenta Travel-Ready Compact Steam Iron. The Rowenta is an impressive 1000-watt travel iron that features a stainless-steel soleplate. Customers can easily adjust the settings to choose a vertical steam option or create bursts of steam while ironing. A two-ounce transparent water tank makes it easy for customers to see when they need to fill the iron. The ergonomically designed handle makes the Rowenta comfortable to use and folds flat for a more streamlined storage option.

Rowenta Travel-Ready Compact Steam Iron

3. aevo 2-in-1 portable steam iron.

BEST FOR STEAMING

You likely don’t want to travel with both an iron and a steamer, which is why we recommend the AEVO 2-in-1 Portable Steam Iron. With an impressively fast heat time of 40 seconds, the 1300-watt AEVO can produce a constant stream of steam for up to nine minutes thanks to its 105 mL detachable tank. Designed with a ceramic soleplate, the AEVO is suitable for a wide variety of fabrics, including linen, silk, cotton, wool and synthetic items. We also like that it comes with overheat protection for added safety and has a leakproof design that means no accidental water dripping on your clothing.

AEVO 2-in-1 Portable Steam Iron

4. homedics perfect steam professional mini garment steamer and iron.

BEST ACCESSORIES

The HoMedics is on the pricier end of travel irons, but for good reason. For a few extra dollars, customers get an iron that heats up in only 15 seconds and has an impressive 10-minute run time of continuous steam. Small enough to fit in a carry-on suitcase but powerful enough to replace an everyday iron, the HoMedics features four settings, including a setting for delicate items. The iron is designed with a high-pressurized power pump and nano-sized molecules that get out stubborn wrinkles and even steam away odors. Safe for both horizontal and vertical use, the HoMedics comes with a travel case, travel pouch and a water cup for added convenience.

HoMedics Perfect Steam Professional Mini Garment Steamer And Iron

5. steam fast travel mini 400 steam iron.

BEST NON-STICK PLATE

Bigger isn’t always better and that is definitely the case with travel irons. With the Steam Fast Travel Mini 400 Steam Iron, customers can easily navigate around pleats, pockets, collars and other spaces that full-sized irons struggle to reach. Made with a dual voltage option for overseas travel and featuring a stainless steel nonstick soleplate, the Steam Fast has an adjustable steam temperature gauge and comes with a travel bag for added convenience and safe storage.

Steam Fast Travel Mini 400 Steam Iron

6. smagreho mini travel steam iron.

FASTEST HEATING TIME

When it’s time to travel, you don’t want to spend all day in a hotel room getting ready. That’s why we like the SMAGREHO Mini Travel Steam Iron, which heats up in 15 seconds and quickly gets to work ironing and steaming clothes. Customers can choose from three heating options depending on their needs, with the SMAGREHO safe for cotton, linen, wool, synthetic, and silk fabric. The compact iron, which measures only 5.2 inches by 3 inches, has dual 100- and 240-volt options for international travel. Customers can get rid of lines and wrinkles with bursts of steam or by holding the iron horizontally to turn it into a portable steamer. The SMAGREHO includes a travel pouch, measuring cup and protective mesh.

SMAGREHO Mini Travel Steam Iron

7. sharper image mini steam iron.

BEST BARGAIN BUY

For times when you need a small iron for quick touch up jobs while traveling, we like the affordable Sharper Image Mini Steam Iron. The 350 W travel iron is convenient to use thanks to its eight-foot power cord. Designed with a nonstick soleplate that resists rust, the Sharper Image has a 1.1-ounce water tank and three heat settings that make it useful for most fabrics. The one-touch steam control provides an extra boost for stubborn wrinkles and the dual 120- and 220-volt options make it a great iron to use anywhere in the world.

Sharper Image Mini Steam Iron

8. dyno merchandise handy press mini iron.

MOST COMPACT

Putting the ‘mini’ in mini irons is the Dyno Merchandise Handy Press. Measuring only 4.2 inches long and 4.8 inches wide, the Dyno is as close as you can get to a pocket-sized iron. When packing space is at a minimum, the Dyno is a great option. Although designed for crafting purposes, the Dyno makes a suitable travel iron for touching up collars, cuffs, and other small ironing jobs.

Dyno Merchandise Handy Press Mini Iron

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Allison spent four years as the Editor and head writer for Much.com, aka the Canadian MTV. During her time at Much, Allison conducted more than 100 on-camera interviews with some of the biggest names…

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9 Best Travel Irons In 2022 – [ Top Mini & Portable Steamers ]

Ironing can be an annoying task for most people but having the best iron can make it easy for you to iron your clothes. You would have different types and categories of clothes and all these differences need different kinds and different timings of ironing to be done on the clothes. Some irons are also small and portable which are regarded as the best travel irons. There are some upgraded large-sized irons too which are specially designed for the use of professional dressmakers. While you are thinking of buying a perfect iron for you, there are so many things to consider but before that, you need to know which type of iron best suits your needs and requirements as there are different types.

Quick Answer: Top-Rated Best Travel Irons In 2022

Best overall: oliso m2 pro travel iron, best mini: steamfast sf-717 steam travel iron, best budget: sunbeam hot2trot compact travel iron, pursteam travel steamer iron mini, oliso tg1100 smart travel iron, colilove folding mini electric travel iron.

Ratings: 4.2/5 | Store: Amazon

Amazon’s Choice ✅

The Oliso M2 pro-mini-project iron supports 100 watts of power and has a universal voltage system. The iron has a lightweight design and an amazing heat setup that it only takes about 45seconds to charge fully. The size of this iron is so compact that you can keep it with your sewing machine or take it with you on long journeys. The iron has two voltage modes that you can switch based on your nature of use including 120v or 240v which most probably is the ideal for ironing. The pivot cord is 8 feet long which you can move both right and left and have an amazing use of the iron. 

Moreover, the iron has a solemate which allows you to keep the iron even in the facedown posture as the iron never burns your clothes nor scorches the fabric. The amazing soleplate makes the iron easy to use and safe to store. This iron has no heating level difference from the large irons. 

Furthermore, this iron has a precision tip and the soleplate of the iron is diamond coated which maintains the even levels of heat all over the iron. Moreover, the iron easily glides over the fabric you are ironing and it even reaches all the hard to reach corners like collars. This travel iron is ideal for iron cotton, wool and all the types of synthetic fabrics. Moreover, the iron has a 3 years warranty. The water tank in this Oliso smart iron is also easy and convenient to fill whenever there is a need.

💡 Back To Top 3

Ratings: 4.5/5 | Store: Amazon

The steamfast SF-717 mini steam iron has dual voltage and comes with a travel bag too. The iron has a 2-year warranty with complete customer service by the manufacturers. The iron has a water tank of about 1.4 ounces which takes the minimum time of 15 seconds to get heated. The steam has touch controls and the iron has 3 levels of temperature which you can change based on the nature of fabrics you’re ironing. However, while filling the water in the water tank, leave some levels and fill maximum to 1.1 ounces. 

Moreover, the iron has a power voltage of 420 watts which works the best in removing the stubborn wrinkles from all the types of fabrics. The iron has an anti-slip handle which improves your grip while ironing the clothes. The 7.5-foot long cord increased the reachability of the iron.  

This iron has a compact design that lets you take it anywhere around the globe with you. You just have to choose among the 240 or 100 volts. Also, the iron comes with a separate travel case bag so that you can keep it safe during your travels. Moreover, there is a measuring cup too which you can use to refill the water in the water tank of the iron. 

The sunbeam hot-2 trot 800-watt compact non-stick soleplate travel ironworks on a dual voltage system of 120 and 240V. You can select any voltage system. The iron also has a shot of steam feature which presses out the creases and all other stubborn wrinkles from the clothes. 

There is an indicator light too on the iron which lets you know the temperature of the iron. This iron has adjustable temperature control. There are various heat settings too which you can do based on the fabric type that you’re ironing. 

Furthermore, the handle of this iron is so soft and easy to handle that you can have a fine grip over the iron while using it. This iron is so comfortable and convenient to use. 

The travel steamer iron mini 30 percent is one of the  top budget-friendly steam irons   made with high-quality premium components. The iron is of import quality and is efficient in removing stubborn wrinkles. This iron is one of the most powerful travel irons available in the market and has a power voltage of 800W. The iron supports a continuous superheat steam system which provides an excellent steam flow to all over the fabric neatly and smoothly. 

You can take this iron with you anywhere in the world because it is so compact. There is a plug adaptor too that you can switch into any outlet and get your iron start functioning. The iron has a dual voltage option for you to select the one that best suits your requirements. 

Moreover, the iron is small, lightweight and highly portable for you to carry it anywhere with you. The handle of this iron is specially designed as an anti-slip to provide a stronger grip on the iron. The iron is amazing for everyday use. The soleplate of this iron is non-stick so it doesn’t stick to the fabric and irons neatly. Also, this iron has an amazing customer service with a money-back guarantee to enhance durability. 

Ratings: 4.3/5 | Store: Amazon

The Oliso TG1100 smart iron has an iTouch technology that lowers the manual controls and you’d only need to touch to stop the iron from functioning. This function lets the iron prevent tipping, scorching, and burns. The iron has an ultra-premium stainless steel soleplate with extra thick chromium finishing for effective scratch resistance. The iron on its base has evenly expanded steam holes which irons the whole fabric neatly. 

Moreover, the automatic shut off feature of the iron makes it easy and safe to use. The iron automatically turns off after 10 minutes of inactivity if it’s not active. If the iron is knocked over, it turns off after 30 seconds of use.  Also, the iron has 1800 watts of power voltage which heats the iron in just seconds. You can also preheat the iron and then use it on sensitive fabrics. 

Furthermore, the iron has three steam settings with three levels of steam. Three steam settings include continuous, horizontal and vertical and the levels include low, medium and high. You can easily iron all the hard to reach corners using these irons. The water tank with this iron is easy to fill. Yet you can’t find a more comfortable iron than this. 

Ratings: 4.1/5 | Store: Amazon

The colilove folding mini collar iron is the  finest iron of 2022 for double ironing.  The iron is highly portable and lightweight so you can carry it everywhere with you. The iron is so compact that it can fit even your palm. You can iron any cloth using this iron as it never harms the fabric. You can carry the iron in your handbag too and take it with you on work, and travel. 

This iron is so durable and comfortable to use and you can iron any unreachable corner using this because of the precision tip of the iron. The best thing about this iron is that it is perfect for quick touching and ironing with a more surface area. The iron has 6 temperature patterns that you can adjust based on your requirements. The temperature levels are settled based on the fabric types including linen, denim, cotton, and wool, silk and polyester. 

Moreover, this iron is really of premium quality and has a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee which makes it more durable and convenient to use. 

What are the different types of irons?

Below mentioned are the different types of irons:

1- Basic iron 

The basic clothes iron is a basic metallic sole plated iron which has a separate dial to control the levels of temperature. The basic type of clothes irons are less costly. Such types of irons don’t accurately fulfill all the ironing needs. Basic clothes irons are also called the dry irons and using them, you would need a separate water spray bottle so that you can have an amazing wrinkle free press. These iron clothes lack any additional features and they are also heavy. They don’t have any automatic off feature and neither any retractable cord. Irons Pro covers all types of irons for daily use.

2- Steam irons 

Steam irons are now one of the most commonly used types of iron which includes a built-in water tank that can be filled with water anytime when you feel the need for it. Using the steam iron is so easy and comfortable that you won’t need to have a separate water spray bottle with you. Steam irons smoothly press all your clothes and provide a complete wrinkle-free finishing to your clothes like linen and cotton. Steam irons have upgraded features and one of them is the burst of steam which neatens the clothes by removing all the stubborn wrinkles from them. They also include a retractable cord and an auto-off feature which never lets the iron function when not in use for more than 30 seconds. 

3- Vertical steam iron 

Vertical steam irons are the latest innovation in the cloth irons. This iron generates steam just like a regular steam iron but the best and innovative part of this iron is that you can use it horizontally as well as vertically. Though this iron doesn’t completely iron the clothes rather steam them which alone is enough for reducing the stubborn wrinkles from the clothes. Vertical steaming proves to be the best alternative to the traditional ironing and it saves your time too. 

4- Travel clothes iron 

Travel irons are portable, lighter and smaller irons than the standard ones. Most of the travel irons are foldable which makes them easy to pack. One thing for you to keep in mind regarding the travel irons is that they may or may not offer streaming options. Travel irons can also be cordless. Travel irons are highly beneficial and suitable for the ones who frequently travel. You should always have a travel iron with you while traveling. Though most of the hotels have irons available on their front desk, nothing can be more comfortable than having a clothes iron of your own as a travel iron will also fulfill your personal traveling needs.

How to select the best travel iron?

There are different types of irons available in the market but if you want one which you can use while being on travel, you can find nothing better than a travel iron. There are some of the most important things that you need to consider before buying the  best travel iron  for you:

1- Heat 

Heat is the one and the most important factor that you have to look for when buying a travel iron for you. Normally the irons have three heat modes including low, medium and high. However, you can adjust the heat modes according to the type of clothes you’re ironing. The ideal iron is that on which you can adjust the heat settings according to the type of fabric.  

Another thing regarding the heat levels of the iron that you have to make sure while buying an iron is the presence of automatic shut off feature in the iron which automatically turns the iron off if it is not in function for a time of more than 30 seconds. This feature is an added safety feature of the iron.

2- Steam 

Steam is the second most important thing after the heat that you must look for in an iron you want to buy. Steam efficiently removes all the extra wrinkles from the clothes and makes them look neat. You need to look for a travel iron that isn’t dry and has a steaming feature in it. Steam in iron may have different adjustable levels and there is a burst of steam feature too which handles all the tough wrinkles on clothes. 

Whatever the iron you may select to buy, make sure that it has a clear water tank to be filled easily. The tank should be clear so that you can see the water levels all the time and get it filled whenever it gets empty. It’s also important to make sure that your steam iron works as a dry iron too when there is no need for steam. 

In some of the types of irons, there is a self-cleaning option too which is ideal to use because having the burst of steam feature, your iron can clear all the clogs present in the soleplate. This self-cleaning feature prevents the water droplets from appearing on your light-colored shirts. 

Sometimes steam irons also have an option of vertical steaming the clothes. However, it all depends upon your nature of use. You can use the vertical steam iron for steaming and removing the wrinkles from drapes, velvet garments, and hanging clothes. 

3- Soleplate surface 

The type of soleplate surface in iron is also an important thing to consider the type of soleplate surface the iron has. There are two types of soleplates used in the irons. 

• The non-stick soleplate irons have the easiest to clean soleplates which never stick on your clothes and provide you neat and clean ironing. 
• The other type is the stainless steel soleplate iron which may be needed to get scrubbed at least once a week to remove sizing and scratches. 

You can buy any of the above-mentioned soleplate irons based on your budget and your nature of your use. However, for increased comfort and ease, you are recommended to buy an iron with non-stick soleplate. 

4- Cord 

The iron you would buy could be cord or cordless. Normally the cordless irons have built-in heating systems and they get heated by a base. Such irons get heated maximum for five minutes and they have to reheat to heat them again by connecting with the cord. Such types of irons are easy to use and they have less or almost no mess of tangled cords and wires. 

The cordless irons, however, can be expensive to buy while the corded ones are less expensive. However, if you are planning to buy a corded iron, you can consider buying an extra-long cord so that it could enhance convenience. You can also have a pivoting or reversible cord which reduces the effort and makes ironing easier. Another option is to buy a card holder where you can hang your ironing board for increased convenience. 

5- Weight 

The weight of the iron matters the most especially when you have to buy the iron to take with you on travels. The weight of the iron differs from type to type and the nature of usage. Heavy weights irons are suitable for large areas and professional usage while lightweight irons are the best travel irons. 

Verdict 

If you are the one to travel so often regardless of the nature of your traveling, you would need a clothes iron with you. You could be traveling for pleasure or even for a business, the value of a good handy traveling iron can’t be denied. Travel irons are small handy irons that you can take on travel with you by packing them in your hand carries. 

Travel irons possess several features that make them amazing to use. However, they can have a long cord or they can also be cordless depending on their type. They can be dry as well as steam-based. You might need to have a travel iron that best meets your ironing requirements and that never harms your garments. 

If you are not sure regarding how to buy the perfect travel iron for you, this guide can be so helpful for you in selecting the best one for you. All you need to do is have a sketch in your mind regarding what exactly you want your perfect travel iron to be and this will let you buy the best for you. 

Another thing worth mentioning before buying a travel iron is that you can have different price options based on different categories and brands so just have to buy what you find affordable and suitable according to your requirements.

Which is the best travel iron to buy?

• The Oliso M2 Pro Mini Project Iron with Solemate is the best travel iron to buy. This mini-project iron supports 100 watts of power and has a universal voltage system. The iron has a lightweight design and an amazing heat setup that it only takes about 45seconds to charge fully.
• The different types of irons include a basic iron for which you would need a separate water spray bottle to effectively iron the clothes. Other types include steam irons, vertical steam irons, and travel irons. 

What factors to consider while buying a travel iron?

• While buying a travel iron, there are certain factors to consider. The factors include heat levels, steam levels, cord length or cordless, soleplate type and weight of the iron. 

What is the best double ironing iron?

• The Colilove Folding Mini Collar Iron，Portable Electric Mini Iron Double Ironing with Anti Slip Handles and Non-Stick Soleplate Portable Hand Held Clothing Steam Power Iron for Home Travel Business is the best travel iron for double ironing. The iron is highly portable and lightweight so you can carry it everywhere with you.  

What is the price range for travel irons?

• The normal price range for travel irons is between $20 to $95. 

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Best Travel Irons — Our Top 14 Picks

K eeping your clothes wrinkle-free can be challenging when you’re constantly on the move, attending meetings, or exploring new destinations. You can’t always count on your hotel to provide an ironing and ironing board, especially if you’re in a hurry to get out the door. That’s where travel irons come in handy. Far from being heavy and bulky in a suitcase, the best travel irons are lightweight and compact. We’ve picked out some of the best irons to keep you looking good on the go.

1. Sharper Image SI-755 Mini Steam Iron Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and buy, SheBuysTravel may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you. Sharper Image SI-755 Mini Steam Iron Buy Now

• Heats up in 1 minute and has three temperature settings
• Weighs just 1.1 lbs
• 1.2-ounce water tank and 8-foot power cord
• The non-stick sole plate and dual voltage for travel
• Compact size for quilting, travel, and craft projects

The remarkable mini travel iron boasts a one-minute heat-up time. With its 1.2-ounce water tank, you can easily fill it with the included measuring cup. The SI-755 is equipped for the most demanding ironing tasks with its impressive 350 watts of power. The non-stick soleplate enhances its performance and prevents rust buildup. A generous 8-foot power cord means you can plug in almost anywhere. Its compact size makes it a perfect companion for quilting, travel, craft projects, and more. And when your adventures take you abroad, there’s no need to worry about voltage compatibility. Simply select between 120 and 220 volts.

2. Conair EZ Press 800 Watt Steam Iron Conair EZ Press 800 Watt Handheld Steam Iron Buy Now

• Steam iron with variable steam feature and steam burst
• Stainless steel soleplate for a smooth glide and anti-slip heel for safety
• Lightweight design and 8-foot long cord for portability
• Steam or dry switch, variable heat, and temperature-ready light

The Conair EZ Press 800 Watt Steam provides 800 watts of power while remaining compact enough for travel convenience. Its special features designed for a seamless ironing experience set the EZ Press apart. It has a variable steam feature with a hot steam burst for stubborn wrinkles. The stainless steel soleplate guarantees a smooth glide across fabrics, making ironing a breeze. Adjustable heat settings, a temperature-ready light, and palm-sized dimensions add to the appeal of this powerful little steam iron.

3. Rowenta Compact Steel Soleplate Iron Rowenta Compact Steel Soleplate Iron Buy Now

• Compact and powerful iron with the 1000-watt micro steam soleplate
• Large, transparent water tank
• Folding handle for travel storage
• Dual-voltage system for 120V or 230V
• Precision tip for smoothening collars, seams, and narrow edges

Don’t be fooled by the Rowenta Compact Steel Soleplate’s sleek and compact design — this iron delivers a robust 1000-wattage performance. Its durable, microsteam stainless-steel soleplate effortlessly glides over fabrics. This iron is compatible with regular tap water, unlike some irons that demand distilled water. So, it simplifies your ironing routine. The large transparent water tank allows for easy monitoring. With a dual-voltage system that supports 120V and 230V, it’s a travel-friendly companion, ready for international adventures. Its sleek handle folds neatly for storage, and a travel pouch is included for added convenience.

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4. Oliso M2 Mini Project Steam Iron Oliso M2 Mini Project Steam Iron Buy Now

• Heats up in 45 seconds and delivers a powerful steam burst
• Ergonomic design with diamond ceramic soleplate and precision tip
• Fabric selector for all fabrics, including synthetics, silk/wool, and cotton
• Silicone stand for safe storage and use

The Oliso M2 Mini Project Steam Iron packs 1000 watts of power. It delivers the performance of a full-sized iron while maintaining an ergonomic and lightweight design. One of its standout features is the Solemate, a practical high-temperature silicone stand that allows you to leave your iron in the face-down position, safeguards your fabrics, and protects your ironing board from scorching. Plus, the cord wraps around neatly for storage convenience.

The Oliso M2’s diamond ceramic soleplate, infused with natural minerals, ensures effortless gliding over delicate fabrics. The 8-foot, 180° pivot cord allows right- and left-handed use while keeping the cord out of your way.

5. Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot Travel Steam Iron Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot Travel Steam Iron Buy Now

• Lightweight and portable at 1.2 pounds
• Powerful shot of steam for horizontal or vertical ironing
• Easy-to-use soft-touch ergonomic handle with 8-foot cord
• Nonstick soleplate and fabric select dial for different fabrics

The Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot Travel Steam Iron has an impressive 800 watts of power and dual voltage capability. The included travel bag keeps it protected while you’re in transit. The soft-touch ergonomic handle keeps controls at your fingertips, and the 8-foot cord provides easy outlet access. It glides smoothly over fabrics with the non-stick soleplate. You can choose the perfect heat setting with the fabric select dial, and the 90 ml water tank will ensure plenty of steam to tackle your ironing tasks.

6. Black & Decker D340 Easy Steam Iron Black & Decker LIME GREEN Easy Steam Iron Buy Now

• Smart Steam Technology generates the exact amount of steam based on the fabric you select
• Motion-sensitive feature shuts iron off automatically when not in use
• Anti-drip design protects fabric from spotting
• Spray mist and superior steam relax fabrics to remove tough wrinkles

A home iron that’s small enough to be a travel iron, the Black+Decker D340 EasySteam Iron stands out for its smart steam technology, which automatically generates the perfect amount of steam based on your selected fabric. The TrueGlide nonstick soleplate glides seamlessly across fabrics to ensure a smooth ironing experience. Moreover, the auto shut-off motion shuts off the iron when not used. The 360º pivoting power cord enhances maneuverability. It allows you to iron with ease. Its lightweight construction further contributes to a comfortable ironing experience.

7. Newbealer Travel Iron with Dual Voltage Newbealer Travel Iron Buy Now

• Mini size and extremely lightweight
• Nonstick ceramic soleplate
• Quick heat-up and dry ironing
• Silicone resting stand

One of the most compact travel irons on our list, the Newbealer Travel Iron offers 300 watts of power and a dual-voltage switch for switching between 100 and 240 volts. The Newbealer features a nonstick ceramic soleplate that conducts heat quickly and is more scratch-resistant than stainless steel plates. Its smooth surface glides effortlessly over delicate fabrics. The front and back double-pointed arc design helps iron small areas like buttons, collars, and plackets. It heats up rapidly and maintains a constant temperature of 302℉ within 2 minutes, allowing you to go directly to dry ironing. The practical, resistant silicone stand during use ensures no damage to your table. Use the included spray bottle to mist stubborn wrinkles.

8. Nori Press Compact Iron Nori Compact Iron Buy Now

• Heats up in 3 minutes and reaches a maximum temperature of 400°F
• Applies direct heat and pressure to remove wrinkles quickly and easily
• Six heat fabric settings
• No need for an ironing board

With its twin soleplates and unique design, the Nori Press Compact Iron eliminates the need for heavy and clunky ironing boards and ensures it can efficiently smooth out wrinkles, even during a crunch. This iron and clothes steamer combo applies direct heat and pressure to remove unwanted wrinkles. It has six heat fabric settings and elongated arms that reach the center of the clothes. The pointed tip targets small, hard-to-reach areas. At 14 inches long, it easily fits into any suitcase or carry-on luggage and takes up about the same space as a curling iron.

9. SMAGREHO Dual Voltage Iron SMAGREHO Dual Voltage Iron Buy Now

• Steam heat-up in 15 seconds and three temperature settings 
• Dry and steam ironing for any type of fabric
• Dual voltage for use anywhere in the world
• Includes a carrying bag and measuring cup

SMAGREHO Dual Voltage Iron means business with its 1.4 water reservoir and a 15-second heat-up time. It is equipped with one-touch steam control and three temperature settings to allow you to effortlessly remove wrinkles from a variety of fabrics. One disclaimer: Some Amazon reviewers note that the iron retains heat after use, so exercise caution.

10. Ivation Small Ceramic Soleplate Iron Small Mini Iron Buy Now

• Powerful 420-watt iron with nonstick ceramic soleplate
• Quick-heat technology heats up in 15 seconds
• Three heat power levels and 1-touch steam control
• Extra-long power cord (7.5 feet) with a wrap-around design
• Anti-drip design prevents water stains

With 420 watts of power, this mini steam iron effortlessly removes wrinkles from almost any fabric. What sets this iron apart is its nonstick ceramic soleplate. It conducts heat quickly and is more scratch-resistant than stainless steel plates. This means smooth gliding and easy cleaning, even when working with delicate fabrics. Another standout feature of this small iron is its extra-long power cord (7.5 feet), which conveniently wraps and clips around the iron handle. An innovative anti-drip design prevents harmful burns and frustrating water stains.

11. Hamilton Beach 1200 Watt 2-in-1 Iron Hamilton Beach 1200 Watt 2-in-1 Iron Buy Now

• 2-in-1 iron and steamer for versatility
• Durable, nonstick soleplate glides smoothly across fabrics
• Easy to use steamer nozzle for removing wrinkles from hanging clothes
• Space-saving design

Smaller than a conventional iron and slightly bigger than most travel irons, this Hamilton Beach model combines the power of traditional ironing with the convenience of a garment steamer. Because it has a durable, nonstick soleplate that smoothly glides across all fabrics, it eliminates wrinkles without any sticking. Switch to the steamer nozzle to freshen up the clothes on the hanger. The wide nozzle directs continuous steam onto clothes. It’s not just a powerhouse but also a space-saving design, so ideal for your next trip where you need to look sharp.

12. DenniesCare Travel Portable Iron DenniesCare Travel Portable Iron Buy Now

• 700W ultra-fast heating element produces strong steam in 35 seconds
• Non-stick Teflon soleplate with flower vents for easy gliding
• Temperature control button for different ironing needs
• Anti-skidding handle for comfortable use

The DenniesCare travel steam iron features a foldable design that is lightweight and compact. But don’t let its small size fool you! This top travel iron means business, with its 700W ultra-fast heating element. The temperature control is at your fingertips. It allows you to adjust the heat to suit different ironing needs effortlessly. The non-stick Teflon soleplate with flower vents ensures smooth gliding over all fabric types. It takes care of stubborn wrinkles easily. A fine mist of water spray is just a press and release of the steam button away.

13. YIKA Portable Steamer Iron YIKA Portable Steamer Iron Buy Now

• Powerful steam clothing iron with 1200w heating elements
• Heats up in 45 seconds and offers 9 minutes of continuous steaming
• Three gears in temperature (203°F-302°F) and two gears in steaming function
• Large nonstick soleplate for easy gliding on all fabrics

With 1200 watts of heating power, this cordless iron delivers fast results, heating up in just 45 seconds. Its 160 ml water tank offers a generous 9 minutes of continuous steaming, making quick work of your ironing tasks. Choose from three temperature settings (203℉-302℉) for traditional ironing. The nonstick soleplate has a large size and is coated with nonstick material. It enhances the iron’s performance. We also love the stylish design of this mini steam iron.

14. Dritz 29500 Petite Press Portable Iron Dritz 29500 Petite Press Portable Mini Iron Buy Now

• Compact and lightweight design for crafting, quilting, and sewing
• Ergonomic handle for comfortable home use or hotel room
• Four-position adjustable head for precise ironing
• Four temperature settings for different fabrics
• Heats and holds temperature in minutes

So, this iron has a comfy handle and is super light to hold – no arm workout needed! Plus, it’s got this four-position head and four temperature settings, so it can handle all sorts of fabrics and crafting jobs. It’s also the tiniest item on our list of best travel irons and at 11 ounces, is also the lightest. It heats up quickly and gets really hot, according to verified Amazon reviews, and its small soleplate is handy for pleats, collars, or any other tight places.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should i buy a travel iron.

Travel irons are designed to be small, lightweight, and energy-efficient. They are perfect for packing in a suitcase and using on the go, but they may not offer the same power or features as a traditional iron. That said if you want to keep your clothes looking good while you travel and don’t want to rely on a hotel iron, a travel iron is a smart investment.

Is a portable iron good?

A portable iron is ideal for those who travel frequently or don’t have much space to store a full-size iron. However, they are not recommended for ironing large sheets and curtains. Additionally, portable irons may not last as long as their traditional counterparts.

Which iron is better, steam or dry?

Steam irons are more efficient when removing wrinkles and creases from fabrics. They are also easier to use and less likely to scorch the fabric. Dry irons are more affordable and durable, but they are not as effective when removing wrinkles.

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

Travel Iron: Ultimate Guide to the Best of Your Needs

Traveling can be exciting, but packing can be a hassle. It’s hard to know what to bring and what to leave behind, especially regarding clothing. One item that can be particularly tricky to pack is an iron.

While many hotels provide irons in their rooms, they can be bulky and heavy to carry around. This is where travel irons come in.

Travel irons are small, lightweight irons explicitly designed for travel. They are compact and easy to pack, making them the perfect solution for those who want to look their best on the go. These irons are also ideal for those staying in accommodations that don’t provide irons, such as hostels or vacation rentals.

When purchasing a travel iron, there are a few things to remember. The first is size. You want to ensure the iron is small enough to fit in your luggage without taking up too much space.

The second is weight. A heavy iron can add unnecessary weight to your luggage, so choosing one that is lightweight is essential.

Finally, you want to ensure the iron is powerful enough to do the job. There’s nothing worse than an iron that doesn’t get hot enough to remove wrinkles.

We spent hours researching and testing multiple travel irons to identify the ones that are the best for travelers. In the next section, we’ll examine our top picks and what makes them stand out.

Best Travel Irons

When it comes to traveling, packing light is critical. However, it can be difficult to keep your clothes looking neat and wrinkle-free while on the go. That’s where travel irons come in.

These compact and portable devices are perfect for smoothing out any wrinkles or creases in your clothes, whether you’re staying in a hotel or camping in the great outdoors. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best travel irons on the market, so you can choose the perfect one for your next adventure.

Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot Travel Steam Iron

If you’re in the market for a reliable travel iron, the Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot Travel Steam Iron is definitely worth considering.

• This iron is lightweight and compact, making it perfect for travel.
• The powerful Shot of Steam feature works both horizontally and vertically, making it easy to iron hanging garments, upholstery, and drapery.
• The non-stick soleplate easily glides over fabrics, making it easy to maneuver.
• The water tank is only 90ml, so you’ll need to refill it frequently if you have a lot of ironing to do.
• The iron may not get as hot as some users would like, especially for thicker fabrics.
• The cord is only 8 feet long, which may be too short for some users.

We recently had the opportunity to try out this travel iron, and we were impressed with its performance. The iron is lightweight and compact, making it easy to pack in a suitcase or carry-on bag. We also appreciated the included travel bag , which kept the iron protected during transport.

The Shot of Steam feature was a real standout for us. It worked well both horizontally and vertically, and we were able to easily iron hanging garments, upholstery, and drapery.

The non-stick soleplate also made it easy to maneuver, and we didn’t experience any snagging or sticking.

One downside to this iron is the small water tank. If you have a lot of ironing to do, you’ll need to refill it frequently.

Additionally, the iron may not get as hot as some users would like, especially for thicker fabrics. Finally, the cord is only 8 feet long, which may be too short for some users.

Overall, we would recommend the Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot Travel Steam Iron to anyone in need of a reliable travel iron. It’s lightweight, compact, and easy to use, and the Shot of Steam feature is a real game-changer.

Rowenta Pro Compact Stainless Steel Soleplate Steam Iron

If you’re looking for a compact and powerful travel iron, the Rowenta DA1560 is a great option. With a sleek design and powerful steam, it’s perfect for ironing on the go.

• Compact yet powerful: With a 1000-watt iron, the DA1560 is strong enough for home use, but its compact design makes it perfect for travel.
• Efficient and durable: The microsteam durable stainless-steel soleplate ensures optimal efficiency and durability.
• Versatile design: The iron can be used with or without steam and works with tap water, so there’s no need for distilled water.
• Small water tank: The transparent water tank holds just over 2 ounces of water, so you’ll need to refill it frequently.
• No automatic shut-off: Unlike some other travel irons, the DA1560 doesn’t have an automatic shut-off feature, so you’ll need to remember to turn it off when you’re done.
• No retractable cord: The cord doesn’t retract into the iron, so you’ll need to wrap it around the handle for storage.

We recently took the Rowenta DA1560 on a trip and were impressed with its performance. The iron heats up quickly and produces a good amount of steam, making it easy to remove wrinkles from all kinds of fabrics.

We especially appreciated the precision tip, which made it easy to smooth collars, seams, and narrow edges.

One thing to keep in mind is that the water tank is quite small, so you’ll need to refill it frequently. We found that we could get through one or two items of clothing before needing to refill.

Additionally, the lack of an automatic shut-off feature means you’ll need to be careful to turn the iron off when you’re done using it.

Overall, we think the Rowenta DA1560 is a great choice for anyone looking for a compact and powerful travel iron. Its efficient and durable design, versatile capabilities, and precision tip make it a great investment for anyone who wants to look their best on the go.

BEAUTURAL Mini Travel Steam Iron

If you’re looking for a compact and lightweight travel iron , the BEAUTURAL Mini Travel Steam Iron is a great option to consider.

• Thanks to its compact size, it’s easy to pack in your luggage and take on the go.
• It offers worldwide use, allowing you to switch between 110V and 230V depending on your country.
• The unique leaf-shaped soleplate makes ironing tight spaces and corners of your clothes easy.
• The steam function can be inconsistent at times, which may be frustrating for some users.
• The temperature dial can be difficult to read, especially in low light settings.
• The handle may feel a bit awkward to hold for some users.

We recently had the chance to try out the BEAUTURAL Mini Travel Steam Iron, and overall, we were impressed with its performance.

It’s incredibly lightweight and compact, making it easy to take with you on the go. We were able to fit it into even the tightest spaces in our luggage.

One of the standout features of this iron is its unique leaf-shaped soleplate. This double-tipped shape allowed us to easily push the iron into tight spaces and corners of our clothes, making it much easier to get a smooth and wrinkle-free finish.

We also appreciated the fact that the BEAUTURAL Mini Travel Steam Iron offers worldwide use. We were able to easily switch between 110V and 230V depending on the country we were in, which made it incredibly convenient for international travel.

However, we did notice that the steam function can be a bit inconsistent at times. While it worked well for the most part, there were a few instances where it didn’t seem to produce as much steam as we would have liked.

Additionally, we found that the temperature dial can be a bit difficult to read, especially in low light settings.

And while the handle is designed to be anti-slip, we did find that it felt a bit awkward to hold for extended periods of time.

Overall, if you’re in need of a compact and lightweight travel iron, the BEAUTURAL Mini Travel Steam Iron is definitely worth considering. While it has a few minor drawbacks, its unique soleplate and worldwide use capabilities make it a great option for frequent travelers.

Aiwell Mini Travel Iron

If you require a compact and efficient travel iron, the Aiwell Mini Travel Iron is a great option to consider.

• Effortless ironing experience with quick heating and steam spray function
• Sharp-cornered design for smooth ironing on all types of fabric
• Durable and flexible with 180-degree rotating handle and easy storage
• Short cord length may require extension cord for comfortable use
• No temperature control or on/off button
• Small water tank requires frequent refilling

We were impressed with how quickly the Aiwell Mini Travel Iron heated up and how easy it was to use. The steam spray function was a great addition for removing wrinkles and eliminating odors.

We also appreciated the sharp-cornered design, which made it easy to iron every angle of our clothes.

The aluminum alloy heating panel felt durable and lightweight, and the 180-degree rotating handle was a nice touch for added convenience.

However, the short cord length was a bit of a drawback and we needed to use an extension cord for comfortable use. Additionally, the small water tank required frequent refilling, which could be inconvenient for longer ironing sessions.

Overall, the Aiwell Mini Travel Iron is a great option for those in need of a compact and efficient travel iron. It’s easy to use, durable, and provides a smooth ironing experience on all types of fabric.

Steamfast SF-710 Mini Steam Iron

If you’re looking for a compact and portable travel iron, the Steamfast SF-710 Mini Steam Iron is a great option to consider.

• With its 1-ounce water tank, this travel iron heats up in just 45 seconds, making it perfect for last-minute touch-ups.
• This iron also has temperature control, a steam burst button, and dry or steam iron settings, so it works well on various fabric types.
• The foldable handle and included measuring cup make it easy to pack and use on-the-go.
• Some users have reported that the steam function may not work as well as expected. They also mentioned that the water reservoir can leak if not handled carefully.
• Another downside is that the cord is only 6 feet long, which may limit your reach depending on where you need to iron.
• Lastly, this iron is built to meet U.S. voltage requirements and may not work as well in other countries without a voltage converter.

In summary, the Steamfast SF-710 Mini Steam Iron is a reliable and convenient travel iron that can help keep your clothes looking neat and wrinkle-free on-the-go.

Buying Guide for Travel Iron’s

When choosing a travel iron, make sure to consider several factors to ensure you select the best product for your needs. Here are some key features to look for when shopping for a travel iron:

Size and Weight of a Travel Iron

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a travel iron is its size and weight.

The ideal travel iron should be compact and lightweight, making it easy to pack and carry in your luggage. Look for a product that is small enough to fit in your suitcase or carry-on bag without taking up too much space.

Power and Heating

Another important feature to consider is the power and heating capabilities of the travel iron.

Look for a product with a high wattage, as this will ensure that the iron heats up quickly and is able to remove wrinkles effectively.

Additionally, consider whether the iron has adjustable temperature settings. This will allow you to customize the heat level based on the type of fabric you are ironing.

Steam Functionality of Travel Iron

Many travel irons come with a steam function, which can be a useful feature for removing stubborn wrinkles.

Consider whether you need a product with a steam function, and look for one with a high steam output for maximum effectiveness.

Additionally, check whether the iron has a water tank that can be easily refilled. This will make it easier to use the steam function when needed.

Additional Features

Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you when choosing a travel iron.

For example, some products come with a dual voltage feature. This allows them to be used in different countries without the need for a voltage converter.

Others may come with a retractable cord for easy storage or a non-stick soleplate for smooth ironing.

When shopping for a travel iron, considering these factors can help you select a product that meets your needs. It can also help you look your best while on the go.

Traveler and blogger Living in Guadalajara, Mexico

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Good hair days matter just as much on vacation as they do on a workday, yet hair styling tools can be the first beauty item to get eliminated when packing for a trip. We get it — every inch of your weekend bag counts. You don’t want to sacrifice precious suitcase space on bulky flat irons. 

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Before purchasing a straightening iron, compact or otherwise, Jennifer Nast , stylist at Sharon Dorram at Sally Hershberger Salon recommends getting familiar with your hair texture. “Remember that finer hair types need less heat,” she says, “Thick and coarse textures need a higher heat setting to get results, and if your hair is currently very damaged, you may want to stay away from hot tools altogether.” 

In order to find the best mini travel flat irons, we sought the advice of seven experienced hair experts, and personally road tested highly rated options. Ahead, the top 15 mini irons and travel hair straighteners you should consider snagging before your next trip. 

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.

The Top Travel Hair Straighteners of 2023

• Most Recommended: BaByliss PRO Nano Titanium Prima 3000  
• Best Dual-Voltage: Chi Ceramic Mini Hairstyling Iron  
• Best for Short Hair: Eva NYC Mini Healthy Heat Styling Iron and Bag  
• Best for Edges: Kristin Ess Hair NanoBlack Defining and Detailing Mini Flat Iron
• Best for Long Hair: T3 Micro Single Pass Compact Iron  
• Best with Automatic Shut Off: GHD Unplugged 1-Inch Cordless Flat Iron  
• Best Compact: Balmain Hair Couture Cordless Straightener
• Best Multitasking: Dyson Airstrait Straightener  
• Best for Damaged Hair: Pritech Mini Flat Iron Portable Hair Straightener  
• Best Temperature Control: HSI Professional Glider Ceramic Flat Iron  
• Best Affordable: Conair Unbound Petite Flat Iron  
• Best for Color Treated Hair: Gama G Evo Silk Chrome Titanium ⅘-Inch Flat Iron
• Best For Beginners: Remington Pro Travel Compact 1-Inch Flat Iron
• Best Cordless: Harry Josh Cordless Ceramic 1-Inch Styling Iron  
• Most Versatile: 6th Sense 2-in-1 Mini Flat Iron and Curling Iron 

Gama G Evo Silk Chrome Titanium ⅘-Inch Flat Iron

Best Travel Hair Straightener for Color-Treated Hair

• Size: 16.42 inches
• Plate width: .8 inch
• Plate material: Titanium 
• Weight: 2.2 lbs. 
• Heat settings: 9 heat settings from 338°F to 482°F
• Warranty: 1 to 2 year limited warranty
• Amazon top-quality store badge on Google: 4.5 stars

Though this Gama G Evo flat iron isn’t technically designed to be a travel iron, Pipino insists he cannot leave home without it. At around 16.5 inches, it isn’t a mini per se, but Pipino insists it is worth it to pack. “It heats up super fast if you need to straighten your hair quickly and works well on all hair types in all climates, even if traveling to humid summer locations,” he says.

He isn’t the only one who lauds the tool. Gama is one of the oldest and best Italian hair tool brands and has earned a reputation for flattening the kinkiest strands in a single pass. This tool in particular boasts oxygen infused plates that are designed for color-treated hair. Instead of pulling color from your hair, this tool extends its life and turns up the brightness. 

What reviewers say:  “This definitely does work even when in a big hurry. I tried it when I only had a few minutes before I had to leave and it made a noticeable difference. It really flattens hair to the core. My daughter has very thick 4c hair so this was safe on her hair. It will give you the best silk press of your life!”

Gama G Evo Silk Chrome Titanium ⅘ Inch Flat Iron $100 Buy Now At Amazon

Chi Ceramic Mini Hairstyling Iron

Best Dual-Voltage Travel Hair Straightener

• Size: 10 inches 
• Plate width: .75 inch
• Plate material: Ceramic 
• Weight:  3.2 oz. 
• Heat settings: 1 heat setting at 383°F
• Warranty : 2 years 

Chi is known for their affordable yet high-quality styling products. This mini tool does the work of a full-sized iron without skipping a beat. The inner plates get nice and steamy, but don’t worry, the outer material remains cool to the touch. The on and off button is tucked on the inside of the tool, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally knocking it while styling. 

This travel straightener’s dual voltage design means it can work overseas without a converter, which means less of your suitcase and designer handbag devoted to hair tools and more devoted to souvenirs. 

What reviewers say:  “It’s been thrown, dropped (100 times), the plates fell out so I used gorilla glue to put them in. It still works! It is the longest she’s ever used any hair tool.” 

Chi Ceramic Mini Hairstyling Iron $60   $55 Buy Now At Amazon

Ghd Unplugged 1-Inch Cordless Flat Iron

Best Travel Hair Straightener with Automatic Shut Off

• Plate width: 1 inch
• Weight: 2 lbs. 
• Heat settings: 1 heat setting, 365°F
• Warranty: 2 years
• Sephora top-quality store badge on Google: 4.8 stars

Ghd remains a favorite hair tool for the pros. Celebrity hair stylist, Laurabeth Cabott being chief among them. “Ghd has been around for over 20 years and is always improving their technology and tools performance.” Nast echoes her praise and adds some of her own. She loves the Ghd Unplugged’s cordless design for styling here, there, and everywhere. Even without the cord, it can still tackle thick and curly manes. It is designed to deliver 20 minutes of cord free styling time and heat up in under a minute.

Though there’s only one heat setting, celebrity extensionist Priscilla Valles sees that as an advantage rather than a drawback. “We are all guilty of taking our straighteners and using them at the highest heat possible,” she says. With a max of 365 degrees, Ghd takes away the temptation. 

Our favorite part? The tool is designed to shut off after three minutes of non-use, so no stressing about burning down your AirBnb while sunning on the beach. 

What reviewers say:  “I bought it for a trip abroad and was so happy not to have to worry about electrical outlets and adaptors (except to recharge). It works like a charm on my straight bob that has developed some weird waves in recent years. The charge lasts long enough for me to use twice.”

Ghd Unplugged 1 Inch Cordless Flat Iron $299 Buy Now At Amazon

Ghd Unplugged 1 Inch Cordless Flat Iron $299 Buy Now At sephora

HSI Professional Glider Ceramic Flat Iron

Best Mini Flat Iron With Temperature Control

• Size: 10.5 inches 
• Plate material: Ceramic tourmaline
• Weight: 10 oz 
• Heat settings: 3 heat settings from 140°F to 450°F
• Warranty: 1 year 

This mini flat iron from HSI Professional is a great budget-friendly option for travelers. Korab ranks it among her favorites and over 55,000 five-star Amazon reviews tend to agree. Each plate is made from a ceramic tourmaline blend which helps your strands absorb moisture rather than pull it out. It also boasts eight sensors to ensure even heat distribution across the plates, so you can achieve your desired look in just one or two passes. 

What reviewers say: “I just received my second HSI Professional Straightener about a week ago and one thing I absolutely LOVE about this straightener is that there is no chemical smell, even on the very first use.” 

HSI Professional Glider Ceramic Flat Iron $49 Buy Now At Amazon

BaByliss Pro Nano Titanium Prima 3000 

Most Recommended Travel Hair Straightener

• Size: 12 inches
• Plate width: 1 inch or 1.25 inches
• Weight: 1 lb. 
• Heat settings: 5 settings up to 465 degrees 
• Warranty: 4 years 
• Ulta top-quality store badge on Google: 4.8 stars

The majority of our experts agree: BaByliss tools are a must for your hair styling arsenal. For Ric Pipino , a celebrity stylist at Sharon Dorram Color at Sally Hershberger Salon , BaByliss tools are a staple tool in his kit. “I’ve used a lot of their different appliances and tools over the years and they’re very reliable,” he says. “They last forever.”

What this tiny tool lacks in size, it makes up for in performance. “It features titanium plates that heat up quickly and provide smooth straightening results,” says Jennifer Korab , celebrity hairstylist and owner of the Renaissance Salon and Spa in Hillsborough, New Jersey, which means it will zap kinks fast. As for its travel capabilities, its small size, compact design, and dual voltage technology make it the perfect carry on companion. 

What reviewers say: “I purchased this curling iron in 2014 and it just stopped working for me today in 2023. I am on my way to purchase my second one right now. Everyone always asks me to use this straightener because of how shiny and sleek it makes their hair. It straightens your hair so fast. It also heats up in 3 seconds. I highly recommend this iron!”

BaByliss PRO Nano Titanium Prima 3000  $190 Buy Now At Ulta

Eva NYC Mini Healthy Heat Styling Iron and Bag

Best Mini Flat Iron for Short Hair

• Size: 8.25 inches  
• Plate width: .5 inch 
• Plate material: Ceramic  
• Weight: 3.21 oz.  
• Heat settings: 1 heat setting 400 degrees 

With plates just a half-inch thick, this mini of all minis (it is one of the smallest on the list) is best used for shorter styles like bobs or modern mullets. With only one heat setting, this simple tool is designed to smooth waves, style bangs, and keep flyaways at bay. The mini travel hair straightener has ceramic plates that evenly heat each strand, and the palm-sized iron stows nicely in a duffel or shoulder bag . At just $30, this is the perfect addition to any straightforward styling routine. 

Also nice: It comes with a stylish travel case for easy transport. 

What reviewers say:  “The Coastal Carolina humidity is murder on any style and I am outside in all conditions in my job showing homes. Bringing back some order and taming the frizz is possible with this portable quick heating little styling iron.”

Eva NYC Mini Healthy Heat Styling Iron and Bag $30 Buy Now At Ulta

Kristin Ess Hair NanoBlack Defining and Detailing Mini Flat Iron

Best Mini Flat Iron for Edges

• Size: 3.25 in. 
• Plate width: .75 in. 
• Plate material: Gold Titanium 
• Weight: 1.19 lb. 
• Heat settings: 1 heat setting 380°F
• Warranty: 2 years 

Thanks to its smaller plate size (.75 of an inch to be exact), this Kristin Ess tool can navigate baby hairs with the best of them. Nast recommends giving this tool a try if you need to tame flyaways or iron out thick strands. “This is a mini that does it all,” she says. 

Its rounded edges allow you to get close to the root without singeing your scalp or tugging on strands. Plus, it is equipped with a 30 minute shut-off feature, so you can leave your hotel with peace of mind. 

What reviewers say:  “I’ve been looking for a smaller iron, but bigger than the typical tiny ones which are always disappointing. I have a short bob and standard irons are awkward to use at the nape and on the bangs. Also didn’t want to have too much weight for a long trip I’m taking, so I thought I’d try this, totally expecting to have to return it. But it’s awesome. It only goes to 380 degrees, but it works better than the full size I have that goes to 425. Also, the flips and waves I’ve made with this iron stay all day where they go flat in minutes with my standard iron.”

Kristin Ess Hair NanoBlack Defining and Detailing Mini Flat Iron $60 Buy Now At Ulta

T3 Micro Single Pass Compact Iron 

Best Travel Hair Straightener for Long Hair

• Size: 8.25 in. 
• Plate width: .80 in. 
• Weight: 5.92 oz 
• Heat settings: 1 heat setting 410 degrees 

Don’t let the miniature size fool you. This tiny T3 tool may be small, but it is mighty. Outside of the BaByliss, this tool earned the most expert recommendations. Celebrity hair stylist Ashley Gomila is partial to the auto world voltage feature. “It will naturally adjust to voltage changes which is great for international travel,” she says. 

Korab calls out the ceramic plating which helps deliver even heat across the iron. “Single pass technology ensures even heat distribution throughout the plates, providing consistent results with each pass,” she explains, “This minimizes time spent styling, which can be beneficial when you’re on the go.”

What reviewers say:  “The compact size fits well in my carry-on luggage, and the heat-resistant cover means I can stow and go in a hurry. It’s also been an “edge saver” for me, allowing me to extend my relaxers by a couple weeks before having to chemically treat my hair.”

T3 Micro Single Pass Compact Iron $89 Buy Now At Amazon

T3 Micro Single Pass Compact Iron $89 Buy Now At Sephora

Balmain Hair Couture Cordless Straightener

Best Compact Travel Hair Straightener

• Size: 10.43 inches 
• Plate width: .94 inch
• Weight: .54 lbs. 
• Heat settings: 3 heat settings up to 392°F

Like others on this list, the Balmain Hair Couture iron is about half the size of a full-sized tool. However, its smaller structure doesn’t skimp on results. For Gomila, this one ranks among the top. “It comes with all international and US converters which is awesome for any jet setters on the go,” she says. Beyond that, the cordless design eliminates any fussy wires. 

The small-but-sturdy tool can take on a lustrous mane. With three heat settings, you can pick the temp that works best for your hair texture and type. “The advanced titanium floating plate technology delivers the ultimate styling results for a smooth, polished, and healthy finish,” explains Ilham Mestour , celebrity hair stylist and artistic director of Balmain Hair Couture. 

What reviewers say:  “These are a great little gadget. I was fed up of going to the gym in the mornings and not being able to blow dry my hair so well and having bad hair days. These straighteners heat up quickly and create enough heat to style effectively. The battery lasts well. No more hair worries for me. It’d be ideal for taking camping or traveling as well. It has 3 adapter plugs, so can be charged easily abroad, too.”

Balmain Hair Couture Cordless Straightener $439 Buy Now At Saks Fifth Avenue

Balmain Hair Couture Cordless Straightener $439 Buy Now At neiman marcus

Dyson AirStrait Straightener 

Best Multitasking Travel Hair Straightener

• Size: 13 inches 
• Plate width: 1.5 inches
• Heat settings: 3 heat settings: 175°F, 230°F, and 285°F 

We get it: this tool isn’t exactly mini, but its multitasking capabilities make it a must-have investment for travel. Dyson is known for their technology, innovation, and celebrity hairstylist-endorsed hair tools. The Airstrait is Dyson’s latest launch , and it’s no exception. Unlike other straighteners out there, the Airstrait can take your strands from wet to straight and dry without using heat and without damaging your hair, so you can leave your bulky hair dryer at home. The catch? Outside of the cost, there isn’t one. 

Each Airstrait is equipped with tension bars instead of heated plates. These perform similarly, smoothing strands without heat and without excess pressure. Yes, the tool requires some investment upfront, but for the end result, it feels well worth it.  

What reviewers say:  “I have 4a curly hair. My hair usually takes 30 minutes or more to blow dry and then another 45 minutes to straighten. Then another 30 minutes to curl. The Airstrait dried my wet curly hair and made it bone straight in 15 minutes!”

Editor testing and review notes : “The Dyson Airstrait is a tool that always gets precious real estate in my packing cubes and carry-on luggage. It takes my thick, naturally curly hair to straight and polished in 10 minutes flat. I love the feature that allows you to lock the arms and use the tool as a standard hair dryer to target roots, too.”

Dyson AirStrait Straightener  $499 Buy Now At Sephora

Dyson AirStrait Straightener  $499 Buy Now At Dyson

Related: Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Review 2023: Two Beauty Editors Put the Hair Tool to the Test. Dyson Supersonic Editor Testing Review The Best Hair Dryer Brushes

Pritech Mini Flat Iron Portable Hair Straightener

Best Travel Hair Straightener for Damaged Hair

• Size: 8 inches 
• Weight: 10.88 oz. 
• Heat settings: 13 heat settings from 210°F to 450°F
• Warranty : 30 day guarantee 

If your hair is damaged, limiting heat styling is the advice for reviving your strands. However, if you need to use a hot tool, make sure it has a variety of temperature settings. See, heat doesn’t start damaging your hair until somewhere over 300 degrees. Nast loves that this mini straightener boasts over 13 temperature options. “This will help to ensure that you are not damaging your hair,” she says, “Keeping the tool on a lower setting cuts down on the damage.” Its inexpensive price point is a bonus.

What reviewers say:  “I went to Italy and only took this hair tool. It’s a little heavy but it worked great and I’m so glad I had it. The temperature control is what sold me. I don’t like to burn my hair at 400 degrees like some of the other travel irons without temp control.”

Pritech Mini Flat Iron Portable Hair Straightener $18 Buy Now At Amazon

Conair Unbound Petite Flat Iron

Best Affordable Travel Hair Straightener

• Size: 11.25 inches 
• Plate width: .75 inch 
• Weight: 11 oz 
• Heat settings: 1 heat setting, 400°F

Celebrity hairstylist Laura Polko is always traveling with her clients for red carpets and events. This mini straightener from Conair remains her go-to. “It is great for quick touch-ups because it is cordless, and holds a charge for a long time,” she raves. She also highlights the ceramic-coated plates which help smooth the hair and glide easily over the strands without tugging or snagging. 

At under $30, this easy to use tool won’t make a big dent in your wallet or travel bag. 

What reviewers say: “I have taken this on two trips, one international, and it worked very well. It is slightly heavier than I would like and I had to charge it right before I used it and it didn’t stay hot very long but it did get me the curls I needed on my mid-length hair.”

Conair Unbound Petite Flat Iron $28 Buy Now At Amazon

Remington Pro Travel Compact 1-Inch Flat Iron

Best Travel Hair Straightener For Beginners

• Size: 11 inches
• Heat settings: Multiple heat settings up to 410°F

Try as we might, hair styling isn’t a natural gift for everyone. Priced at just $36, this simple but effective tool is a great place to start. Free of bells and whistles, this tool focuses on the basics, aka zapping unwanted texture from your hair. 

It has just about every advantage of a full sized tool without going overboard. Korab recommends this tool for its worldwide voltage, compact size, ceramic plates, and adjustable heat settings. “This flexibility helps prevent excessive heat exposure and reduces the risk of hair damage,” she says. 

What reviewers say: “My daughter and I have very thick hair and it works amazing. I was skeptical because its so small. But it straightens our hair very well.”

Remington Pro Travel Compact 1” Flat Iron $36 Buy Now At Kohl’s

Harry Josh Cordless Ceramic 1 Inch Styling Iron

Best Cordles s Mini Flat Iron

• Size: 13 inches
• Heat settings: 3 heat settings up to 425 degrees 

Valles trusts Harry Josh for all things hair tools. For her, the brand is synonymous with high quality. Their latest cordless launch is a must for travel. The iconic mint green plates are just as powerful cord-free, and they hold a charge for a whopping 40 minutes of styling. The silky ceramic plates glide over your strands without snagging, so you can straighten or use to create Farrah Fawcett level waves.  

Harry Josh Cordless Ceramic 1 Inch Styling Iron $350 Buy Now At Goop

6th Sense 2-in-1 Mini Flat Iron and Curling Iron

Most Versatile Travel Hair Straightener

• Plate material: Titanium
• Weight: .61 lbs.  
• Heat settings: 1 heat setting at 374°F
• Warranty: 1-year full warranty and 4-year limited warranty

Pipino dubs this tool one of his go-tos for travel and touch ups. “It’s a dual process,”  he says, “You can switch the blades for either a straightener or a curling iron.” This of course saves room in your travel bag or designer work bag and allows for multiple styles. Thanks to the titanium blades, this tool heats up quickly and can straighten hair quickly which is one of Pipino’s biggest priorities as a stylist. Bonus: though its full price is $40, the tool frequently goes on sale for $25. 

What Reviewers Say: One reviewer credits this tool for “saving space, time, and sanity.” Though it was originally purchased to use on vacation this user was so impressed with the results, they started using every day. Another raves about how the iron didn’t catch on their fine hair. 

6th Sense 2 in 1 Mini Flat Iron and Curling Iron $40   $25 Buy Now At 6th Sense

What to Look for in the Best Mini Flat Irons

• Plate width: For flat irons, the standard plate size is one-inch thick. However, for mini flat irons, it tends to be a little less. The width of your straightener plate is dependent on personal preference. Smaller sizes like .8 or .5 inch are better for shorter stylers and touch ups, as they can get close to the scalp without burning it. If you have tighter, more unruly hair, Gomila recommends a smaller thinner plate. “You will already have to work in smaller sections to smooth the hair effectively and properly,” she says. If you have a looser curl pattern and longer hair, she suggests going with wider plates. That will require less passes and less heat to smooth the hair effectively. 
• Plate material: According to Valles, the plates are the most important feature in a straightener. She suggests looking for an option that offers floating plates, as these allow the tool to freely move and flex. Not all plate materials are created equal. Nowadays, most straighteners are made out of ceramic or titanium. Hairstylists debate about which one is better, and the answer depends on what you are looking for. Ceramic irons use infrared technology to smooth the cuticle from the inside out. Titanium, on the other hand, heats up in a flash, but can be more intense on finer hair textures. 
• Temperature settings: Most flat irons come with a range of heat settings, but smaller straighteners or those designed for travel usually come with less. Cabott highly recommends paying attention to the heat settings. She warns against using an iron on the top temperature, especially if that is well over 400 degrees. The temperature choice at which you use the tool, however, is entirely up to you. Those with thicker or coarser strands may require high temps for easy styling. Just know, the higher the temperature the harder it is on your hair. To minimize damage, almost all of our experts recommended applying protectant before straightening. Regular hair masks can help restore moisture, too.
• Voltage: When in the market for a travel tool, finding a dual-voltage option is a must (otherwise, you’ll need a travel adapter for your hair straightener). The US electrical system runs on a 110 volt system. Other countries do not. For example, Europe runs on a 220 volt system. Dual voltage devices can operate on both electrical systems while others won’t work, or worse, break.  
• Safety features: For an added layer of peace of mind, look for an iron with safety features like automatic shut-off, a device lock, and a temperature regulated cap that prevents it from singeing surrounding items. 
• Cord : A cord-free device saves even more space in your suitcase, however, even the most advanced models require regular charging. If your device has a cord, pay attention to the length. You want something at least four feet and that has a 360 degree swivel for easy styling. 

How We Chose the Best Travel Hair Straighteners

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

In order to find the best travel hair straighteners, our team combed the market for options from top brands. We read through ratings, examined features, and personally tested different models to see if they lived up to their claims. We considered top factors for travel friendly flat irons like size, voltage, temperature settings and plate material. On top of that, we spoke to professional hair stylists for their expert opinion. We also considered the best retailers to shop when selecting the best travel hair straighteners, reading customer reviews and cross-checking with  Google’s new top-quality store badge  (a rating that indicates retailers with quick shipping, clear return policies, and positive shopper reviews). Learn more about WWD here .

Meet The Experts

• Jennifer Nast is a stylist at Sharon Dorram at Sally Hershberger Salon in New York City. With over ten years of experience creating tailor made hair cuts for her clients, she is well versed in all things styling tools.  
• Ric Pipino is a celebrity stylist at Sharon Dorram Color at Sally Hershberger Salon in New York City. Before moving to the US, Pipino began his legendary career in his home city of Sydney Australia. He quickly established himself in New York City and became the go-to stylist for names like Heidi Klum, Lady Gaga, Zoe Kravtiz, Christina Aguilera and more. 
• Jennifer Korab is a celebrity hairstylist and owner of the Renaissance Salon and Spa in Hillsborough, New Jersey. She also works as an educator of Pureology and regularly primps and preps models backstage at New York Fashion Week. 
• Ashley Gomila is a Los Angeles based professional hair and makeup artist. This double threat works on both models and major stars like Natalie Zea. Her work can be found in professional campaigns for Balmain and About Face.  
• Laura Polko is a celebrity hair stylist in Los Angeles, CA. Her client list includes names like Gigi Hadid, Maren Morris, Hailee Steinfeld, Alix Earle and many more. When she isn’t styling the hottest stars on your social feeds, she is making easy tutorial videos on Instagram for you to try at home. 
• Priscilla Valles is a celebrity extensionist in Los Angeles, CA. She works on Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, Kylie Kardashian, Megan Fox, Hailey Bieber, Kate Hudson, Chrissy Tiegen, and Katy Perry – just to name a few. She even has her own extension line with Glam Seamless if you want to check out try her looks at home. 
• Laurabeth Cabott is a celebrity hair stylist who splits her time between Los Angeles and Kansas City. She’s worked with clients like Cara Delavigne, Brittany Mahomes, Paige Lorenze, and more. She also owns and operates Artistry by LB Salon in Kansas City.  

Meet the Author

Anneke Knot is a freelance writer in the fashion and beauty space based in San Francisco, California. With over seven years of experience in beauty product testing and writing, she has extensive knowledge of hair tools and beyond. Aside from WWD, her editorial work can be found in publications like InStyle, The Strategist, Byrdie, Forbes, and more. 

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Nori Press review

You won't need to drag out an ironing board with this product.

Updated September 14, 2021

Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed's editors. Purchases made through the links below may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.

What is the Nori Press travel iron?

What i like about the nori press travel iron, what i don’t like about the nori press travel iron, is the nori press travel iron worth buying, related content.

Compact design

Easy to ready settings

Hard to fill

Difficult to maneuver

Weak steam flow

The Nori Press has six temperature settings and a powerful steam mode.

The Nori Press is easy to store and doesn't require an ironing board.

Living in a small New York City apartment, I’ve never owned an ironing board because it takes up precious storage space. And, if I’m being really honest, I despise having to drag one out to freshen up my clothes.

The Nori Press eliminates both of these hassles. At 14 inches long, it’s fairly flat, lightweight, and can be held with one hand. It was easy to take out and put away, and this convenience encouraged me to iron more than I normally would.

When I tested it on various items like a button-up shirt, skirt, and drapes, it worked best on flat fabric that doesn’t have details such as pleats or buttons. With a few swipes, I was able to easily get rid of wrinkles.

Normally, I use a garment steamer, though it doesn’t always get rid of deep-set wrinkles. But when I used the Nori’s steam feature while pressing, I found that it was much better than my garment steamer at getting rid of even the deepest wrinkles. I should note: A traditional steam iron and ironing board would do the same job as well.

Its fabric-specific settings are designed with the most common materials in mind, making it easy to determine what will best fit your needs. It takes the guesswork out of picking the proper temperature if you’re working with one of those materials. In case you forget to turn off or unplug the Nori, it has an auto shut-off feature that kicks in after 10 minutes.

You may encounter a hiccup if you're working with a fabric that's not included in the Nori Press settings.

The Nori’s limited temperature settings are great until you encounter a fabric that’s a blend of fibers or not on the Nori fabric list, such as rayon. Unfortunately, some Googling and guesswork may be required to figure out which of the six settings to choose. Nori does not have any recommendations on its website for this situation.

If you’re unsure, it’s best to start on the lowest heat setting possible. (On the Nori, choose polyester.) Then do a small test spot in an inconspicuous area to make sure it doesn’t damage the fabric. Work your way up in heat settings until you find the one that's high enough to remove wrinkles.

Besides the potential temperature issue, if you’re used to a traditional iron, this ironing method may take some getting used to as it operates more like a hair flat iron. To use it, you need to clamp the press on the fabric and drag it across the clothing item. At first, it was tricky to get the positioning of the iron right while keeping the fabric flat in between the plates. The size is slightly bulky for my small hands, and because I had to clamp and unclamp the iron quite a bit, I found that my hands got tired.

When ironing long sleeves, I noticed it hard to maneuver and achieve a good flat press because the sleeves would bunch up. Despite the company’s claims that the product would be more time-efficient, it took much longer than it would have with a regular iron. I also found it hard to work around buttons and pleats, though using the pointed tips did make this slightly easier.

Lastly, because the small water tank is located on the handle, the steam mode lasts for about 10 minutes (for what it’s worth, this is the length the company advertises). It was possible to steam one or two garments before I had to refill the reservoir, whereas I can get through four to five garments with my handheld steamer before needing to refill. The iron was also prone to spitting when the water level was running low and it didn't give any warning.

If you don't already own a garment steamer, the Nori Press is a convenient way to quickly tackle wrinkles.

For those that already own a handheld steamer, it may or may not be worth it. I don’t own a lot of clothes that my steamer can’t take care of, and my ironing philosophy tends to be “good enough” without having to get out every last wrinkle. But if your steamer isn’t tackling those deep-set wrinkles, this is worth an upgrade as the iron-plus-steam combo really worked well to give clothing a clean, pressed look.

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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

Meet the tester

Apparel Staff Writer

Jamie writes about clothing, shoes, and accessories for Reviewed. She loves apparel and doesn't like to sacrifice fashion, comfort, or quality in whatever she wears.

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Tested and Reviewed: The Best Travel Steamer to Take on the Road

By Erinne Magee

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

Even the most seasoned travelers open their suitcase after landing and find themselves with a daunting task ahead: deciding if their wrinkled clothes can get by with a thorough shake out or if reinforcements are needed.

Of course, most hotel rooms are equipped with irons, but the task of setting up the ironing board and fitting each article of clothing just right can feel overwhelming. Not to mention, some pieces are too delicate for harsh heat. Enter our swanky new friend, the travel steamer.

When I set out to find the best travel steamer, I admit, I was hesitant about such a practical item taking up precious carry-on space. But when traveling as a family of four , as I often do, an ironing board set-up can quickly become a catch-all for toys, shopping bags, or electronics and simply get in the way. After testing these steamers, I’ll be leaving the iron tucked away.

Of the nine steamers tested, my favorite models had one thing in common: a metal soleplate, allowing you to touch the steamer to the clothing to smooth out tricky spots. While steamers are mostly celebrated for their ability to get the wrinkles out, they also kill 99.9% of bacteria. Important to note, most steamers come with the recommendation of distilled water to keep the sediment buildup at bay, which I did not use as most of us don’t have easy access to it when we travel.

Each steamer has been tested and reviewed on jeans, khakis, T-shirts , button-down shirts, blouses, and jackets based on the following criteria:

• Size/packability : Does it fit into a weekender or carry-on?
• Power/efficiency: Is it faster and easier than setting up and using the hotel iron? Or at least just as good?
• Water capacity: How many times do you have to refill the reservoir to steam an entire outfit?
• Leakproof: Will you be late to dinner while waiting for the wet spots to dry?
• Durability/longevity : Is the quality going to withstand enough trips to make the steamer worth packing and purchasing?

Which is the best travel steamer?

The design here is just smart. The steamer weighs less than a pound, but produces a solid stream of steam. With a small reservoir, I was surprised the water lasted for almost 10 minutes, allowing for five items to be de-wrinkled (though it was not powerful enough for jeans). There is a button to turn the steam on, but you don’t have to hold it down, which I appreciated. The metal soleplate allows for an ironing option, which is what I ended up using to smooth out the jeans. An adjustable head not only makes the seamer compact, but gives you the option to steam at different angles. I did wonder if frequent adjusting of the head would loosen the feature, but the steamer seems to be quite solid and well made. The unit also comes with a wall mount so you always have a place to hang the garment at home.

Weight: .8 pounds

Pros -Lightweight and packable -Adjustable head -Comes with wall mount -Powerful

Cons -Works best on lighter fabrics only

Can I travel with a portable steamer?

Most travel steamers will fit into your carry-on and can go through TSA without any issues; just make sure any remaining liquid from the reservoir has been emptied before getting to the airport.

Is a portable steamer worth it?

If you are going to a formal event or know you’re packing clothes that are famous for wrinkling, then yes, it's worth adding to your suitcase. As someone who typically only uses a carry-on unless traveling with family, I do value my space and find the steamer to be an easy item to remove should I be running short on room.

What is the lightest travel steamer?

The Nesugar steamer weighs less than a pound, which inched it ahead of the Conair Turbo (weighing in at two pounds and measuring 13 inches long) in overall rating.

More steamers I tested

Of the nine steamers I tested out, these are the others I would recommend, with caveats:

One of the more expensive steamers I tested, the Conair is definitely the winner in terms of power and functionality—a T-shirt can be good as new in less than a minute. While the steamer can blast wrinkles from jackets, you can also lower the setting for more delicate items. The Conair turbo is the only steamer I tested that had various settings to choose from. It even has a built-in creaser, if that’s your thing.

Because the steamer is more powerful, it uses more water, so refills are necessary after a few items (depending on the fabric and intensity of the wrinkles, of course). The Conair Turbo would’ve taken top spot if it were more compact for traveling (its dimensions are 13" x 8" x 6", making it a bit bulky for carry-ons). If you find yourself using an iron a lot at home, this steamer may actually be your best bet.

Weight: 2 pounds

Pros -Can dewrinkle anything  -Various settings to choose from -Quick heat-up

Cons -Hard to fill with small opening -On the larger side for travel

This is by far the most aesthetically pleasing steamer I tested and ranks number two for packability. With a 30-second warm up and automatic steam (no trigger to hold), the Seekclass was off to a good start, but it did take four minutes to steam one pair of pants and I had to utilize the metal soleplate in order to get the job done. The reservoir is tiny, so I had to refill it before I could finish the pants, too. Because the hole to refill is so tiny, it’s also hard to get out any remaining water when you’re ready to pack up the unit. Knowing this, it’s smart to let the steamer dry out at your earliest convenience to keep any build-up from forming.

Pros -Handle folds in, making it easy to travel -Metal soleplate -Quick heat-up

Cons -Leaks when on its side -Very small, hard-to-fill reservoir -Heavier material requires at least one refill

At first I was wondering if I had a faulty unit because it took several minutes for this steamer to heat up, which felt like an eternity compared to others. Once it was ready to go, though, the steam was quite efficient as long as the material wasn’t too thick (button-down shirts worked fine, but nothing heavier). Again, the metal plate comes in handy for more stubborn wrinkles. You have the option to lock the steamer into a continuous stream or control the trigger for smaller bursts (this helps save water in between items, too).

Weight: 1.57 pounds

Pros -Metal plate -Option for continuous steam or manual

Cons -Longer heat up time -Won't tackle jeans or heavier garments

International travelers will be happy about the automatic dual voltage with this steamer. While the heat up is quick (about 20 seconds), the reservoir of the steamer is painfully hot so be sure to only hold on to the handle. Unfortunately, the high temperature of the reservoir requires a pause between fill-ups, but you can get three items done with one tank. My favorite feature is the automatic steam from the get-go, which means your fingers get a rest from holding down the trigger button that comes with many other steamers. The main reason this steamer remains on the final list is for its appeal to those who frequently travel abroad.

Weight: 1.2 pounds

Pros -Collapsible handle for travel -Automatic heat-up (no power button) -No trigger needed to release steam

Cons -Cannot promptly refill reservoir because the tank gets so hot

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Best Travel Flat Irons

A convenient and compact travel-ready 1-inch flat iron. Simple to use with effective salon-quality results.

Notable for the on and off switch, which features a temperature wheel to select your desired temperature setting. Ceramic plates distribute heat evenly. Users rave about the exceptional results they get using this travel flat iron.

Doesn't let you know when the selected heat has been reached.

Amazing value for the money, and compact enough for travel. Features a fast 30-second heat up time and 20 temperature settings.

We love the convenient tangle-free swivel cord. The 1-inch ceramic plate can heat up to 450°F, with 20 lower temperature settings before that. Features a useful closing lock and auto switch-off for added safety.

Some users find the ceramic can disintegrate after not many uses.

Ceramic titanium-coated flat iron that can get up to an impressive 410 degrees Fahrenheit fast. Anti-static technology fights against unwanted frizz.

The irons have 6 heat settings from 310 degrees Fahrenheit to 410 degrees Fahrenheit and heat up fast. Digital controls and LCD screen are easy to use and view. Titanium coating is strong, durable, and adds longevity to the product. Auto shutoff is a welcome addition.

Some users find the lowest setting too hot, especially for fine or color-treated hair.

The 1/2-inch ceramic plate makes this flat iron the ideal travel companion, especially with the dual voltage feature, which allows for worldwide use.

The small plate width makes this ideal for shorter hair. Can achieve a decent maximum temperature of 450°F. Travel-ready with dual voltage for worldwide use.

Not ideal for long hair due to smaller surface area and overall size.

Black-seed-oil-infused, 1-inch ceramic iron helps keep the moisture locked in and makes hair shine. Dual voltage makes it compatible for worldwide use.

Easy to use with comfortable soft-touch grip. Stands out for ceramic plates infused with black seed oil to lock in moisture. Offers easy-to-use adjustable temperature controls. Includes 1 hour auto shutoff.

Slightly overpriced compared to other models.

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

Table of Contents

Buying guide for best travel flat irons.

Curly, wavy, straight, smooth, wild – all hair types can be beautiful, but if you've made it to this page, you’d probably like to straighten yours. Keeping your hair straight and smooth isn't a part-time job, however. If you're going on vacation or a business trip, you'll need a travel flat iron to stay on top of it.

You might know you want to buy a travel flat iron, but the question is, which one? With hundreds of options on the market, it can feel daunting trying to find the product that's right for you.

To aid you in your search, we've written this comprehensive guide, including our top recommendations, to tell you all you need to know about travel flat irons before you buy.

Key considerations

Cordless: Cordless travel flats irons are – as the name suggests – flat irons that work without needing to be plugged in. They usually have a built-in rechargeable battery.

Most can be charged using a standard micro USB cable, which is convenient since the bulk of phones and tablets have the same charger.

Many cordless flat irons can last two or three days on a single charge, so you won't need to worry about recharging it on short trips.

They are extremely compact and take up little room in your bag.

You won't need to worry about bringing a plug converter if traveling to a country that uses a different socket type (although you will need somewhere to plug in your USB cable).

If you'll be charging it while out of the country, you'll need a dual voltage model.

Cordless models aren't quite as effective as corded, especially for straightening large sections of hair.  

Corded: Corded travel flat irons are much like standard flat irons but compact enough to be suitable for travel .

These give you the same great results as full-size flat irons .

They usually have a higher maximum temperature than cordless models, important if you usually use the highest setting.

Many are dual voltage, letting you easily use them in other countries.

These are slightly bulkier than cordless varieties, especially when you factor in the space taken by the power cord.

Travel flat iron features

Plate width: The plates are the parts that heat up and you move down your hair to straighten it. Travel flat irons usually have plates that are one inch wide or less, since the idea is that these models should be compact. While slim plates are versatile and suitable for any hair type, it will take more time to straighten long or thick hair.

Overall size: If you often travel only with a small bag or carry on , the smaller the flat iron the better. A compact model leaves more space in your bag for other items. Check the manufacturer's specifications to find the exact dimensions of any flat irons you're considering. If in doubt, those listed as "mini” tend to be the smallest. Some travel flat irons are close to full size but offer other features that make them suitable for travel.

Dual voltage: A dual voltage travel flat iron can be a lifesaver when vacationing abroad. In the United States, home electrical systems are 110 volts, but most of Europe uses 220 volts. Even if your U.S. plug fits in a European outlet, you might end up frying your flat iron because the circuitry is 220 volts. Dual voltage travel flat irons are able to work with both electrical systems.

Plate material: The plate material or coating can make a big difference in the performance of your travel flat iron. Solid ceramic plates give great results and are smooth, which can help avoid snags or tangles. Titanium plates are lightweight and durable, and they heat up quickly. Because the heat transfer is lower, titanium cause less damage to hair, especially the ends. However, titanium can be expensive. Newer on the market are tourmaline-coated ceramic plates, which are more durable and even smoother than ceramic for superior results.

Temperature control: The temperature you require depends on a range of factors, including hair type and the results you want. As such, a quality travel flat iron should offer a wide range of temperature settings. Some flat irons can reach a high temperature of 450°F, though most people won't need to use the highest setting.

Travel flat iron prices

The good news is that you don't need to spend a huge amount on a travel flat iron unless you want to.

Inexpensive

We found some excellent budget choices for as little as $10 to $20 . They might not give you the same silky-smooth finish as the most expensive options, but they're fine for minor straightening jobs or touch-ups while you're away.

These travel flat irons cost about $30 to $80 and will suffice for all but the most frequent travelers.

If you're serious about having poker-straight hair at all times, you might want to splurge on a high-end travel flat iron, but expect to pay $90 to $150 .

Think about versatility. Travel flat irons with rounded plates can curl hair as well as straighten it.

Decide if you need a storage pouch. This will help protect your flat iron if you take it while traveling .

Embrace ionic technology. Some travel flat irons use ionic technology, emitting negative ions to neutralize positive ions to give your hair a smooth, frizz-free finish.

• Consider how often you'll use your travel flat iron. Assuming you also have a full-size flat iron, you'll only be using your travel model when you're away from home. If you travel regularly, you'll get more use out of a portable flat iron. If you only need it for a week or two a year, splurging on a high-end model might be unnecessary.

Other products we considered

We’ve featured our five top travel flat irons, but it was an extremely close call. We found a number of other models that are up there with our favorites for your consideration. Thanks to its slim one-inch floating plates and worldwide dual voltage, the KIPOZI Professional Flat Iron is perfect for packing in your carry on, especially for overseas travel. If you'd like the convenience of wireless, try the Deogra Cordless Mini Flat Iron , which charges via a micro USB cable. Last but not least, consider the Lovani Mini Portable Flat Iron . Its small size is perfect for travel, and the ionic technology increases hair’s smoothness and shine.

Q. How will I know when my travel flat iron is ready to use?

A. The vast majority have an LED indicator light to alert you when the flat iron has reached the desired temperature and is ready to use.

Q. How can I tell if my travel flat iron is dual voltage?

A. When looking online, it should state whether it is dual voltage in the description or the manufacturer's specifications. Otherwise, check the packaging or the instruction manual.

Q. I have thick, coarse hair. What should I look for in a travel flat iron?

A. You'll generally need to use a higher heat setting for perfectly smooth results with thick and/or coarse hair. Choose a travel flat iron that heats up to at least 410°F but preferably 450°F.

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The Best Gear for Travel

By Wirecutter Staff

Traveling well can be one of life’s great pleasures, whether you’re alone or with family and friends.

But what does it mean to travel well? We’d say that along with traveling safely (of course), traveling well involves avoiding hassle, carrying a single bag (if possible), and bringing only the necessities.

“Traveling well is a fine balance between finding inspiration in the unknown while being grounded in something,” said Wirecutter founder Brian Lam. “Sometimes that is a memory of home, a family, a significant other, friends, etc. Sometimes it’s just the familiar, reliable stuff in your bag.”

Over the past 10 years, we’ve spent hundreds of hours researching and testing dozens of products to find the most dependable items that will help you travel well. On top of that, we sought the advice and wisdom of Doug Dyment, author and creator of OneBag—a traveling businessman and public speaker, he has logged millions of miles over the past few decades—as well as travel-gear reviewer Eytan Levy, the Snarky Nomad.

And we relied heavily on the experiences of Wirecutter staff, an especially mobile group of individuals. Our staffers have worked remotely from every continent except Antarctica—the five most frequent flyers among us travel about half a million miles in any given (normal) year.

The research

Flying/riding, just in case, travel tips.

A well-packed bag is one that contains less than you think you need but everything you actually need. If possible, fitting everything into one carry-on and personal item will give you more freedom compared to checking a bag or two. You’ll be glad you did if (and when) things don’t go according to plan. While carry-on-only isn’t feasible (or advisable) for every trip—especially extended business trips or weddings where you need multiple outfits to maintain appearances—if in doubt, it’s better to cut.

Carry-on backpack (non-roller)

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

The Allpa’s clamshell design makes organizing your things simple. The strap design lets you easily wear this durable bag on your back or carry it in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind, but most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility and clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts depending on how much you’ve packed. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

We spent six months testing 22 bags, and in the end we chose two as our top picks for travelers determined to never check luggage again: the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L (for most trips) and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L features an easy-to-pack clamshell design and highly adjustable straps that make it a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. Handles on all four sides of this bag make it easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it, and the Allpa’s straps are contoured to comfortably fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The bag is protected by a full lifetime warranty and has the build quality to back that up. Its front panel is made of a waterproof, TPU-coated 1,000-denier polyester (a strong fabric covered in a flexible plastic coating), which means you can lay it on its back in a wet field or in gravel without worrying about moisture soaking through or jagged edges ripping the fabric. The rest of the paneling is made with 1,680-denier ballistic nylon, which feels similar to a strong canvas but with a more prominent weave. After four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item to store under the seat) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage that Kit Dillon, Wirecutter’s senior staff writer who covers luggage, uses.

One caveat: The Allpa has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth—which is where the personal item comes in handy. As the name suggests, “personal items” are very, well, personal, and no one bag will work for all travelers; we offer a range of recommendations in our full guide to them .

The larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. Not so with the Peak Design: It looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack. You can access the bag through a back panel, which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch, as well as through a front one, if you unzip the pass-through divider. You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps that run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters.

If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. It still feels larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for the ability to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400D nylon and polyester fabrics—it feels tough, but not as tough as the Cotopaxi Allpa. As for flaws, it is expensive, especially if you commit to the entire system of packing cubes and camera cubes . The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses, though Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty.

Finding the right bag is a personal choice, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we have picks in our full review of carry-on travel bags that can double as traveling offices , bags that are easy to carry while you’re walking long distances , and budget options for travelers who want to give the one-bag strategy a try.

Carry-on bag (rolling)

Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner

Great features, great value.

This spinner carry-on offers the best balance of size, value, reliability, and durability, with high-end details. It’s backed by a lifetime warranty.

Since 2015, we’ve researched several dozen suitcases and gone hands-on with the 67 most promising candidates in a variety of tests—including having active flight attendants test bags for us in a fake plane fuselage in their training facility. We determined that for most people the  Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Expandable Spinner  offers the best balance of features, durability, and price for most flyers who log less than 25,000 miles annually.

It features smooth-rolling, user-replaceable wheels; solid and comfortable, telescoping handles; and a hard-wearing nylon exterior propped up by a solid internal chassis. The Elite only improves on past iterations in the Platinum line by reducing the size of the stowed handle (which used to jut out about an inch) and adding a second zippered, exterior pocket for easy access on the go and a USB pass-through extension that lets you insert your own battery pack for charging your phone. And at 7.8 pounds when empty, this carry-on bag is about half a pound lighter than its predecessor. Compared with other bags in this price range, you also get surprisingly high-end components and a warranty that covers anything, even airline damage, for the life of the bag (as long as you register the suitcase within 120 days of purchase, which is easy to do on any smartphone).

Upgrade pick

Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner

For frequent flyers.

If you fly more than 25,000 miles a year, invest in a bag with unique features, superior details, and plenty of expandable room. This manufacturer guarantees your satisfaction.

If you fly more than 25,000 miles annually and you’re willing to invest in a higher-quality product, we recommend the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22-Inch Carry-On Expandable Spinner. It can fit more clothing than any bag we tested, thanks to a cavernous interior and clever expansion and compression system that can adjust to variable levels beyond open and shut. Over a five-year period before the pandemic, Wirecutter’s founder, Brian Lam, put more than 150,000 miles on his. His only complaint was that longer pants will need an extra fold, or to be rolled. In taller bags, pants will only need to be folded over once.

Checked luggage

If you need to pack more stuff than a carry-on and a personal item can hold, our first piece of advice would be to reconsider whether you need that extra outfit “just in case.” But you’ll have times when you need to travel with several pairs of shoes, formalwear, a winter coat, special equipment (like diving or camping gear), or all of the above. In these cases, there’s no way to avoid checking a bag.

Osprey Farpoint 55 Men’s Travel Pack

The best travel backpack for those with taller torsos.

Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Farpoint has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel.

Osprey Fairview 55 Women’s Travel Pack

The best travel backpack for those with shorter torsos.

Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Fairview has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel.

If you’re going somewhere where you’ll need to walk a lot (particularly if there’s dirt or cobblestone roads), we recommend a travel backpack. We like the Farpoint 55 and the sized-for-smaller-torsos Fairview 55 because they’re comfortable and have plenty of room to store, and separate, our essentials. The front of the main pack unzips like a suitcase, so you can easily fit and access a week’s worth of clothes and toiletries. The daypack, which attaches to the front of the larger pack, has room for camera gear, daily essentials, and a small laptop (via a built-in sleeve). It’s also easy to stow. The main pack’s straps can tuck behind a zippered flap, so they won’t catch on anything if you check your luggage.

These bags are made of a heavy-duty recycled polyester that stands up even to long trips–one of our testers has traveled with a Farpoint 55 for years, across dozens of countries for months at a time, without damaging it. If something does happen, though, Osprey has a lifetime warranty.

Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner

The best checked bag for most travelers.

The bag provides a luxury feel at a reasonable price, with a capacity, warranty, and reliability that should suit most travelers. The 25-inch model should offer plenty of room for most people without going over airline weight limits.

If you don’t plan on walking around while carrying all your stuff, the  25-inch Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Spinner Suiter is our favorite piece of checked luggage for all of the same reasons we loved the carry-on size: It has excellent organizational features, it’s especially durable, and it has a better warranty than anything in its price range.

Luggage tags

Ovener Silicone Luggage Tag

Strong and easy to see.

Rugged silicone and a metal cable mean this tag (which comes two to a pack) may well outlive your luggage. The brightly colored case displays its owner’s name but keeps other personal information out of sight.

A good luggage tag should be durable, simple to use, and discreet. Ultimately, a tag should allow someone to get your luggage back to you quickly and easily, and it should withstand the wear and tear of being thrown onto conveyor belts time and again. After researching the top-rated and best-selling models, reading existing luggage-tag reviews, and comparing fourteen tags , we recommend the Ovener Silicone Luggage Tag for most travelers because it’s the only one we’d trust to survive being smashed by other bags, jammed into walls, and generally abused by baggage handlers. It’s the most durable tag we tested, and it comes in a wide selection of colors to help any bag stand out from the rest.

The Ovener tag’s silicone body seems nearly indestructible and is available in a rotating selection of colors (you get two tags per pack). Whereas other tags also feature metal cables, this tag has a metal grommet to keep the cable from eventually wearing through the silicone case.

Should you lose your bag, the Ovener makes it easy for a Good Samaritan to find your contact information. To fully access the info card, you have to unscrew and remove the metal strap; this lets the card slide out of the case. Most luggage tags we tested secure their info card in this way. It isn’t a difficult or time-consuming process, but it is an extra step compared with using a tag that displays all of your information openly. Still, for anyone who wants to keep their contact information out of view, the extra step is worth it.

Another approach to increasing privacy is to hide information in a QR code, as the Dynotag Smart Deluxe Steel Luggage Tag  does, or to provide a user ID number, as the Okoban UID Luggage Tags do. But these seem like overly complex solutions to a problem that doesn’t really exist.

Compression sacks

Originally designed for reducing the bulk of lofty sleeping bags, compression sacks are stuff sacks modified with additional nylon end caps that can be pulled together by strings or straps to remove air and create a smaller, denser package that’s easier to pack. Most travelers use compression sacks to condense socks, underwear, and other stuff you don’t mind getting wrinkled into a package with half as much overall volume. For example, an 8- to 12-liter sack can compress a fleece jacket and a long-weekend’s worth of socks and underwear into something that fits in one hand. They also make a decent pillow in a pinch.

Osprey StraightJacket (8L)

Easier access, less compression.

It has a full-length zipper on its side that allows access to the bag’s entire contents. However, it doesn’t compress as tightly as traditional designs.

Most compression sacks require you to empty out the stuff at the top to get to the stuff below it, but the side-zipper design on the Osprey StraightJacket allows access to the entire contents of the bag at once. The compression straps attach sideways, and are less likely to get tangled and twisted like on most compression sacks with lengthwise straps. It can also sit up on its own, and the handle design lets you break it out as a last minute carry-on to avoid an overweight-baggage fee. However, it doesn’t compress down as compactly as the traditional designs we tested so it’s not the best option if compression is your top priority.

GobiGear’s SegSac takes a different approach to solving the same access issue: It has four inner dividers that run the length of the sack in order to keep your socks separate from your underwear, winter accessories, towel, what have you. This means you don’t have to take out your T-shirts to get to your socks. Unlike the Osprey, it compresses just as much as a normal compression sack, but it loses points for versatility because the segmentation prevents it from handling large items like a down jacket or sleeping bag.

Packing cubes

Packing cubes could change your life. (Okay, maybe just your traveling life.) Packing cubes are basically bags to hold your clothes that you organize within your luggage. Though seemingly superfluous, they’re brilliant in action. If you imagine your suitcase as a dresser, you can think of these cubes as individual drawers: Put all your underwear and socks in one container, all your shirts in another, and your workout clothes in yet another. Then pull out only the cube you want. They make packing and repacking wonderfully simple.

Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set

Well built with easy access.

Simple and solidly constructed, these packing cubes keep your bag organized while you’re traveling.

The three-piece Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set keeps a week’s worth of clothes organized and moves easily from suitcase to hotel dresser. We’ve been recommending the previous version of these cubes for years, and after testing this updated set, we now recommend this version.

The full-size cube is great for shirts, shorts, and insulating layers. The half-cube and quarter-cube are perfect for underwear, socks, and other thin fabrics such as stockings or sleepwear. These cubes are made of 300-denier polyester (a strong fabric) and stay upright when empty, so they’re easy to pack. The Pack-It cubes’ windows are made of the tightest mesh link we tested—better for resisting snags—and the smooth zippers close easily around all corners, even when a cube is overstuffed.

The Eagle Creek cubes have the ability to unzip fully to allow full access to their contents while sitting in a dresser drawer. That means your clean clothes stay protected against some potentially dicey motel dressers. In 2022, Eagle Creek updated the design of these cubes, and now the company no longer uses YKK zippers, which are widely accepted as the best around . That said, we couldn’t tell any difference between Eagle Creek’s zippers and other brands’ YKK zippers, even with a magnifying glass, and their performance was indistinguishable. (For what it’s worth, an Eagle Creek product manager assured us that the proportion of zipper-related warranty claims hasn’t changed since the company made the switch from YKK.)

Most travelers are likely to be well served by the Reveal set. But if you value lightness above all, the more expensive Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set is about 50% lighter than similar-size competitors (just over 1 ounce for a medium cube, whereas the Eagle Creek classic style weighs about 4 ounces). Unlike the Reveal set, this set is water resistant. However, the Isolate design’s thin sides—which don’t allow the cubes to stand up on their own—make those cubes a bit more challenging to pack than the Reveal cubes.

Buying the right gear can help organize your existing travel kit, but it’s a red herring if your goal is better portability. “It’s mostly the clothing that allows you to reduce what you need to carry,” explains veteran traveller Eytan Levy, better known as the Snarky Nomad . That’s because clothing, which is very voluminous, makes up the bulk of what’s in your bag. He recommends traveling with basic-looking clothes because you can always buy or rent something nice in a pinch, whereas lugging around formalwear just in case will always be a pain. It also helps if you can avoid cotton and stick to merino and synthetic fabrics, which dry faster. This allows you to do laundry by hand in the sink as needed to reduce the amount of clothes you need to carry.

Travel underwear

Good travel underwear keeps you feeling fresh and clean, even when your destination is gritty.  To find the best , we researched an array of underwear designed for men and women to find 37 pairs meeting our criteria: moisture-wicking and breathable, quick-drying, odor-resistant, stretchy, stylish, and cut to fit a variety of body types.

We then conducted rigorous pretesting (wearing the underwear for two days at a time, machine-washing them repeatedly, and tracking their drying speed when hung on a clothesline) before taking them out into the real world. Our testers went backpacking 215 miles throughout Portland, Oregon; hiking in the Canadian Rockies, including walking from the lowest point in the Continental US to the highest; and road-tripping to the national parks of the West. Testers who flew to their destinations wore the underwear on the plane, too.

Afterward, we checked for signs of wear, such as seam breakage and pilling on the fabric. As we continued to test the finalists, we repeatedly checked for durability problems. In addition to comfort and fit, we noted whether each pair seemed lightweight and packable.

ExOfficio Men’s Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh 6″ Boxer Brief

Best for most men.

Durable, quick-drying, and relatively inexpensive, this soft-fabric version of ExOfficio’s time-tested Give-N-Go undies will get the job done for years.

The ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh 6″ Boxer Brief is the best men’s underwear for travel because it balances fit, comfort, odor-proofing, and value better than anything else we’ve tested. The Sport Mesh fabric excels at breathing and wicking and has better odor-resistance than other fabrics. It feels soft on the inside and smooth on the outside so it slides against your pants instead of creating friction, reducing potential for chafing. It also features a sculpted crotch area that gives wearers some much-appreciated support, without feeling stifling. These boxer briefs dry quickly, pack compactly, and weigh less than almost all the other boxer briefs we tried—basically they’re everything you’d want from a pair of excellent travel underwear.

Patagonia Women's Active Hipster

Best for most women.

These light, stylish, quick-drying hipsters stay in place whether you’re walking, flying, or hanging upside down.

The Patagonia Active Hipster doesn’t appear special upon first glance. Only after trying everything else and living through their failures to stay put did we remember what “special” really means in a pair of underwear: Feeling as if you’re wearing nothing at all. The Patagonias have the best fit, comfort, and style out of all the panties we tested. The nylon material is fast-wicking and better than most synthetics for odor-proofing, making it well suited for athletic activities. The Active Hipster is lightweight and packable, and is the fastest-drying underwear we tested—making them perfect for minimalist travelers who go weeks at a time with just one or two pairs. But these same characteristics make them great for any traveler looking for comfortable, packable panties, regardless of where you’re going or what you’re doing.

Budget pick

Uniqlo Men Airism Boxer Brief

Comfortable, compact, and fast-drying, these are a great value but don’t fit quite as nicely and aren’t as supportive in the crotch.

Uniqlo Women Airism Ultra Seamless HipHugger

Similar fabric to the Men’s Airism, with a no-ride cut for women, these underwear are the least expensive of any we tested and among the best performing.

May be out of stock

If you want to spend as little as possible without sacrificing performance, the Uniqlo Airism line has long been a great choice for men and women who can wear sizes small and medium. In recent years, both lines have expanded their size range somewhat (men to 3XL, and women to XL). If these fit, you can replace an entire underwear drawer on a tight budget, as long as you can deal with the slightly odd cut and less-effective odor-control treatment.

If you’ve never traveled with merino wool socks, you’re missing out. These aren’t the scratchy wool socks your grandpa wore in the army; they are soft and stretchy ones that have natural sweat-wicking and odor-resisting properties that keep your toes comfortable under all conditions—even when wet. This combination of odor, moisture, and temperature regulations makes them ideal for traveling. "Because of its natural anti-bacterial properties, washing merino wool on a daily basis isn’t absolutely necessary,” explains Snarky Nomad , "after letting it air dry overnight while you sleep, it’ll seem brand new.” The only major downside is that merino tends to be a bit pricier than synthetic counterparts. But it’s a worthy trade-off, since you can go for longer with fewer pairs.

Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Sock (Women’s)

The best quality for women.

The best mix of comfort, durability, and cushioning in a versatile height.

Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Sock (Men’s)

For the best quality.

The same great versatile sock as the women’s model, but in different color options and more sizes.

Darn Tough’s Light Hiker Micro Crew socks (both the men’s and women’s versions) have been our favorite hiking socks for years. Darn Tough made its name through its quality guarantee : “Our socks are guaranteed to be the most comfortable, durable, and best fitting socks you can buy. In a nutshell, if you wear a hole in them, we will replace them free of charge, for life.” Pacific Crest Trail thru-hikers (hardcore backpackers who walk from Mexico to Canada in one continuous trip) praise them for their durability, comfort, and blister resistance. When you hold a pair of Darn Toughs next to a pair of Smartwools (which only have a two-year guarantee ), the difference is clear. The Darn Toughs are more tightly knit, the yarns are finer and feel sturdier, and the stitching is tighter.

Darn Tough Women's Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock

The best non-wool women’s hiking sock.

This midlevel cushioned sock for women is the best synthetic option for most climates and terrains.

Darn Tough Men's Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock

The best non-wool men’s hiking sock.

This synthetic men’s sock is perfect for day hiking in most weather.

If you are sensitive to wool, prefer a vegan product, or want a cooler option for the summer, we also like the Darn Tough Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock, which comes in women's and men’s sizes.

We appreciated how breathable this sock felt. While wearing the Coolmax Micro Crew in hot summer weather, our testers’ feet stayed dry and sweat-free. The shorter micro-crew height makes the Coolmax Micro Crew suitable for both boots and shoes, too. And like all Darn Tough socks, this model comes with a lifetime warranty.

Indosole Flip Flops (women’s)

A quality flip flop in women’s sizes.

These stylish beach sandals come in a wide range of colors. Be careful, though: Indosole sizes tend to run a little small.

Indosole Flip Flops (men’s)

A quality flip flop in men’s sizes.

These beach sandals are the same as the women’s version but cut a bit wider; we still think they run a little smaller than regular shoe sizes.

A good pair of travel flip-flops should be lightweight, comfortable, and waterproof. The men’s and women’s Indosole Flip Flops offer the best combination of quality, comfort, and easy packability. Unlike many flip flops, which slap against the ground with every step, the subtle arch support of this flip flop kept it secure against our feet. Plus they’re made from waterproof, recycled materials. Keep in mind, though, that our testers found these shoes to run a bit small, so we suggest sizing up for the best fit.

Clothesline

While doing laundry at home can be a large weekly event, OneBag author Doug Dyment recommends approaching travel laundry as a part of your daily routine, especially if you’re trying to pack as little as possible: “The laundry should be more like cleaning your teeth—something you do everyday. It only takes about five minutes to do it. Every night, do your socks and underwear and you’ll have clean socks and underwear everyday.”

A secure, hassle-free option

The Flexo-Line attaches easily to a door handle or faucet and grips garments securely between its loops.

Check out OneBag’s laundry packing list if you want specific tips on how to do it and what you’ll need, but it’s a pretty simple setup: All you need is a toiletry bottle of powdered detergent, a towel to help expedite drying, and a travel clothesline to finish the drying process while you sleep at night.

Specifically, you want a braided—not twisted—surgical latex clothesline with looped ends, which means you want a Flexo-Line . The Flexo-Line can stretch up to 7 feet long, which is enough to span most hotel bathtubs, and it has loops that you can attach easily to a door handle, bath spigot, or faucet. The braided construction is superior to twisted designs made from other materials because the latex does a better job of gripping garments securely between the loops, which means you don’t need any additional clothespins.

Dyment has tried them all, but the Flexo-Line is the one he comes back to. As he explained to me in an interview, “There are others that are fine, but there are far more that are not fine.” More specifically, Dyment says to avoid anything that’s not made of latex , because clothes will inevitably slip out of them. He also says to never, ever trust a suction cup: “They don’t work, period.” If the Flexo-Line is unavailable, Dyment says that the Rick Steves collection from Kiva Designs also makes a nice braided line that is a bit more expensive. If you have a latex allergy, Dyment recommends going with a length of cord ( paracord is nice because it’s durable and you can use it for other things as well) and stainless steel safety pins meant for cloth diapers , because they take up far less space than a clothespin and won’t rust. In fact, it’s worthwhile to get these items even if you can use a latex line because they’re great for making luggage repairs and performing other MacGyver-ish tasks in a pinch. To hang up the clothesline, we recommend using a bowline knot on one end and a taut line hitch on the other. These knots work well together because the bowline creates a simple, slip-proof loop to anchor one end while the taut line hitch allows you to adjust for tension and locks tightly in place. If you could commit any two knots to memory forever, these are the ones to learn.

Laundry detergent

Minisoak Travel Packs

A travel size version of the best delicates detergent.

Perfect for traveling because you don’t even need to rinse it out.

When you’re washing your underwear in a hotel sink, you want a fast and easy experience. For this, we recommend the no-rinse detergent Soak . That’s right, we said no rinse . You just add a drop to the sink, fill with water, and leave your garments to soak. Then press out the water and hang. Done.

In our tests of delicates detergents , Soak cleaned almost as well as our top laundry detergent, Tide; plus, it comes in individual packets of powder  that are great for traveling, as well as in  travel-size bottles of the liquid version . In addition to unscented, it's available in a variety of scents, although Lacey and Celebration are not the most descriptive of scent names. They all smell nice, not overpowering. Soak also comes in an assorted travel pack with two single-use packets of each scent, if you want to test-drive one or two before you buy. In that mini size, you get eight packets for $11 currently, but you really need only a squeeze, not the the whole packet, to wash a couple of pairs of socks and underwear.

One downside to Soak is that you won’t find it in a grocery store or big-box store. But it is available online at Soak’s site . And if you really want to walk into a store and put your mitts on a bottle, you can find it at most local yarn stores.

Don’t feel like buying Soak or bringing along a bit of your own detergent? Shampoo also works pretty well for cleaning garments in a pinch, so make use of that free bottle from the hotel. But a caveat: Neither Soak nor shampoo contains enzymes , which are biological molecules in laundry detergent that break down certain stains. If you have especially stinky or stained clothes, you might need to break out the Tide .

When we first published this guide, this section addressed only toiletry kits and bottles, razors, and packable towels. The times, and traveling, became more complicated. One thing we've learned in the past few years is that face masks can be useful whenever you’re sick and don’t want to share your misery. Fortunately, compared with early 2020, medical-style N95s and KN95s (which many experts recommend as the best protection) are widely available. They’re easy to tuck into a bag, which we do now whenever we travel. 

Toiletry kit

We’ve researched dozens of travel toiletry bags and dopp kits over the past several years, and we tested 23 of the top-rated contenders in our most recent round of tests. After packing and unpacking a week’s worth of travel-size toiletries, conducting spill tests, and living out of the top performers on the road, we have a few different picks that stand out thanks to their style, packability, and quality of construction.

Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag (small)

A space-saving hanging bag.

This lightweight, well-organized bag fits a week’s worth of travel-size toiletries into a compact package. It’s meant to be hung, which makes it good for tight spaces, but it doesn’t have much in the way of internal structure.

The Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag (small) is compact and durable. It’s small enough to stash in a backpack or laptop bag, but it holds enough travel-size toiletries to keep us supplied for a week. You can open it and hang it from a shower curtain or towel rod to easily see and grab your items. It comes with a shatterproof mirror, two micro-mesh zip pockets and an open pocket for toothbrushes, lip balm, and tweezers, and a large compartment for bulky lotions and hair-care items.

L.L.Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag

For more stuff and longer trips.

With a 6.4-liter capacity and over a dozen compartments, this toiletry bag has a place for everything—and everything will stay put during transit, too. It can also accommodate non-travel-size bottles.

The L.L.Bean Personal Organizer (medium) is a great option for longer trips and people who travel with full-size bottles. Its 6.4 liters of storage spread across a dozen compartments means there’s a dedicated place for pretty much everything you could want to bring on a trip—it even has a removable mesh shower caddy for shampoo and body wash. This level of organization is crucial for larger toiletry bags because, as we discovered after years of traveling with our picks, contents that aren’t securely fastened can shift around in transit, which increases the chance of spilling. The downside of all this organization is that the L.L.Bean weighs 14 ounces when empty, so it’s not ideal for carry-on travel.

If neither of these bags seems right for you, read our full review of the best toiletry bags and dopp kits to learn more about our picks and everything we tested.

Toiletry bottles

Sea to Summit TPU Clear Zip Pouch with Bottles

These six TSA-friendly bottles are sturdy and smartly designed, dispensing liquids more precisely than any of the other bottles we tested.

For traveling with liquids in your carry-on, the Sea to Summit set is your best bet. All six bottles conform to TSA size limitations; three of them can hold 3 ounces of liquid each, and three can hold 1.5 ounces each, for a total of 13.5 ounces. Despite the set’s name, the bottles themselves are made not of thermoplastic polyurethane—“TPU" refers to the zip pouch—but a high-density polyethylene material, much like what you’d see used in most plastic milk jugs. It has an almost-smooth, semi-transparent surface just textured enough that it’s not slippery when wet. The plastic is also flexible enough that you don’t have to squeeze very hard to get your shampoo or liquid soap or whatever going. An insert at the mouth of each bottle helps regulate the flow, and the screw tops prevent liquids from leaking in transit.

Razor (faces)

Gillette Mach3

The best manual razor for most faces.

This classic razor’s three widely spaced blades provide the best balance of speed, smoothness, and safety. Its handle is comfortable and well designed, and replacement blades can be had for a fair price.

We researched more than 100 and tested 11 manual razors for our full razor guide , concluding that the Gillette Mach3 is our top pick for manual razors. Although the three blades require a little extra time for a closer shave, it performs comparably to the latest and greatest offerings for as little as half the price.

The Gillette Mach3 provides the best balance of speed, smoothness, and safety. The Mach3’s simple, round handle is easy to grip and maneuver, and its three blades offer a close shave without over-irritating the skin or getting clogged with hair. And the price of Mach3 blades—$2 per cartridge or less, whether you buy them online or in a store—came close to, or even beat, the pricing of shave-club rivals, and the Mach3 shaved better than those competitors.

Razor (legs/body)

Gillette Venus Smooth

The best body razor.

This classic Venus is one of the easiest razors to grip and maneuver and its three-blade design keeps the blades remarkably free of hair.

Disposable razors (both the completely disposable and replaceable-cartridge variety) are fine to take through airport security , and among them we like the Gillette Venus Original best for traveling. Although it’s now the runner-up pick in our guide to body razors —it was formerly the top pick—we believe that its simple aloe lubricating strips, which don’t become tacky when wet, make the Venus more travel friendly than our new top pick . Plus, as with any Venus, the Original’s body is compatible with any other Venus head and many heads from Gillette’s facial razors, making replacement heads easier to find when you’re on the road.

The Original’s head has three blades separated by considerable slats of space, making it far easier to clean the head between strokes. The Original is intuitive to hold and secure to maneuver, thanks to a contoured handle with corrugated chevrons of rubber. Though our testers have a wide range of hand sizes, no one found the Original difficult to grasp. Despite the significant ribbing, it doesn’t feel too bulky. Gillette claims its razors have lasted for five weeks; we think one razor for a weeklong trip should be fine.

(Know that, confusingly, the Venus appears for sale on some retail sites under the name Venus Close and Clean or Venus Smooth. It’s the same razor. If you’re unsure which Venus model you’re looking at, check for the Original’s three blades and trademark sea-foam blue color.)

Towel (packable)

PackTowl Personal

The best all-around packable towel.

The PackTowl Personal Towel is lightweight, soft, absorbent, quick to dry, and odor-resistant.

With store pickup or REI membership (limited patterns)

(limited patterns)

We put 20 top-rated towels through a battery of tests including regular shower use, a trip to the beach, camping, and a 48-hour stay in a ziplock bag under the hot Hawaiian sun. After all was said and done, the Packtowl Personal Towel is still the best all-around travel towel for most people. In addition to being the softest lightweight towel we tested, it was more absorbent than competitors made of similar materials. It had the best odor-resisting abilities and comes with a convenient mesh carrying pouch. We also have alternate picks for ultralight and all-natural towels below.

The Personal Towel’s suede-like material was the softest of the thinner towels. The Personal Towel also had superior absorption when compared with other similarly constructed towels such as the Sea to Summit DryLite —in our tests, it absorbed 2.8 times its weight in water, while the others absorbed between 2.3 times and 2.7 times.

One of just two we tested that featured an added antimicrobial treatment, the Personal Towel was only a little musty smelling after 24 hours in a sealed ziplock bag, and remained unchanged at 48 hours.

If you’re looking for a budget option, consider the Rainleaf Microfiber Towel , which is a tad smaller than our other picks and is made from a seemingly lighter-feeling fabric. Unlike most budget options, it has an antibacterial coating and still managed to carry a pleasant smell after being testing in different environments.

Regardless of how you get to your final destination, it’s likely you’ll be stuck in a seat that’s less than ideal. Travel gadgets that claim to reduce this misery, such as compression socks, are popular. But when they take up precious luggage space for the duration of your trip—not just the flight or train ride–they need to be worth every cubic inch of space. The less you can make do with, the better off you’ll be.

Neck pillow

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow

More support for most necks.

Its tall memory-foam walls let it offer more support than any other pillow we tested. It’s also shaped to sit flush against a headrest, and it compresses to a manageable size.

The uniquely angled back on the Travelrest Ultimate sets it apart from other travel pillows we tested because it can lay flat against the seat back. Most other pillows have a rounded back, which pushes your head away from the headrest. The Travelrest also has rubber grip dots to prevent slipping while sleeping. This pillow’s spongy memory foam cushions the entire circumference of your neck, preventing your head from leaning far in any direction, and its adjustable Velcro strap ensures it can fit most necks. The pillow’s cozy velour exterior is removable and machine-washable. Although it doesn’t pack flat, the Travelrest weighs less than a pound and compresses to a quarter of its size when rolled into its Velcro-strapped carrying case. Our only complaint is that the Travelrest’s high walls, though supportive, can push over-ear headphones off of the ears of people with shorter necks.

Noise-cancelling headphones

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

The best over-ear noise-cancelling headphones.

The Bose 700 headphones deliver excellent noise cancellation in a comfortable, lightweight design that’s traveler friendly—but they carry a high price.

The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 over-ear set has the most versatile active noise cancellation we’ve ever tested. With 10 levels of noise reduction to choose from, everyone should be able to find a setting that meets their needs. We also enjoyed the lightweight and comfortable design and the easy-to-use controls. What distinguishes the Bose 700’s ANC is the amount of adjustability it gives you: Most noise-cancelling headphones offer controls for only on/off or maybe high/low/off, but with the Bose 700 pair you can set the ANC level from 0 to 10, so you have more flexibility to dial in the ideal setting for your comfort. The 20-hour battery life, while not the best we’ve seen, is more than sufficient to get you to most destinations. We have additional options—including earbuds and surprisingly good budget options for  over-ear headphones and earbuds —in our full guide to noise-cancelling headphones .

Mack’s Slim Fit Soft Foam Earplugs

For blocking out the most noise.

These blocked the most noise in our controlled testing and got the most votes from our subjective sleep panel.

When you’re traveling, it can be difficult to fall asleep to unfamiliar noises. That’s why we spent several hours researching new contenders and tested four top-rated models while sleeping in a house that was next to an airport in order to determine that Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam earplugs are the best earplugs  for sleeping.

The Mack’s 37.1 dB noise reduction rating was the highest among the models we tested. According to Cooper Safety , that’s enough to reduce the volume of a gas lawnmower to that of a normal conversation. What made the Mack’s earplugs so effective is the fact that we could insert them and rest assured that they would stay in the whole night. Meanwhile, the Howard Leight MAX1 might be a favorite from crowdsourced sleep-aid review site Sleep Like the Dead , but the earplugs would inevitably fall out in the middle of the night. Thus, they failed to block out the noise of planes landing and taking off throughout the night, despite the MAX1’s 33 dB noise reduction rating. The Howard Leights also made our ears ache on occasion, whereas the Mack’s has a tapered shape that was consistently comfortable night after night.

The Mack’s Slim Fit Soft Foam Earplugs cost about 20¢-35¢ per pair when purchased in a 50-pair pack. They come in a plastic case is about the size of a large coffee mug, which is small enough to toss in a large bag or suitcase. Many other ear plugs like our runner-up, the 3M’s E-A-Rsoft OCS1135 , can only be ordered in industrial-size lots that, while perhaps appealing to those who travel constantly (or run a hostel), are annoying to store and often lack a reusable container of any sort.

Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask

For air travelers and back-sleepers.

The lightweight and contoured Nidra mask is a light-blocking win for most face shapes, with deep eye cups that allow the wearer to blink freely and arrive feeling refreshed.

When bright lights hamper peaceful shut-eye, we recommend the light-blocking, contoured Nidra Deep Rest sleep mask. Of the 14 masks we tested , the Nidra blocked the most light on the most faces. It’s contoured to rest on your face like a pair of soft goggles, with fabric lenses that sit around your eyes (instead of directly over them). This design provides more space for your eyes to flutter during REM sleep, ensuring that you come through red-eye flights with less redness in your eyes. Makeup wearers will also appreciate that, with the Nidra’s elevated eye cups, there’s a smaller chance of smudging.

Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask

A flat, silk mask.

A silken exterior material, a flat design, and an adjustable strap make this mask a fit for almost any face, but it puts pressure on the eyes.

Mzoo Sleep Mask

A smooth, contoured eye mask.

Soft, structured, and contoured, this mask stays on all night and prevents any light from seeping through

(limited colors)

If the Nidra Deep Rest doesn’t fit your face quite right, we also recommend the Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask and the Mzoo Sleep Mask . The Alaska Bear mask lacks contoured eyecups and thus applies some pressure to the eyes overnight like any regular eye mask does. But its flat design easily conforms to fit your face, and its silk exterior feels smooth and soft against skin (the padding is made of cotton). Its relative lack of structure makes it more difficult to knock off when you’re tossing and turning.

The Mzoo mask’s eyecups have a convex gap so your eyes can open and close. That gap is surrounded by a memory foam padding that rests on the perimeter of your eye sockets. The effect is such that you don’t feel like your eyes are being forced closed, but there is a bit of compression near your temples, eyebrows, and cheekbones. Most—though not all—of our testers found this sensation soothing. One liked how the contour of the eyecup kept the mask from brushing against their eyelashes, which makes it a good choice for people who wear eyelash extensions.

Few things are better than landing at an airport, turning on your phone, and having it just work. No hassles, no stress, no worries about brutal roaming fees. You can check in with loved ones, scope out the route to your lodgings, and maybe post an Instagram story or two—because your phone works just like it does at home. This is especially freeing, and it makes travel so much easier. (Of course, phones aren’t the only useful tech to bring: Check out our accessories reviews for guides to the best cables ( USB-C , Lightning , and Micro-USB ), Wi-Fi hotspots , Bluetooth speakers , and more.)

Unlocked mobile phone

One of the most useful gadgets for international travel is an unlocked smartphone that’s compatible with cheap, prepaid phone plans you can sign up for at your destination. Unless your carrier offers plans including high-speed data that you can access internationally (i.e., you’re with T-Mobile or Google Fi), traveling with a phone under contract with a major carrier means paying an arm and a leg for data. Being able to access data-guzzling apps like Google Maps or Google Translate on the fly is worth the hassle to unlock a phone. Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp are free, easy ways to communicate with people you meet on your trip and people from home. Plus there’s checking email, TripAdvisor, banking, social media, and so on.

An “unlocked” phone means you can buy prepaid SIM cards in the country you’re visiting, letting you access their local network for significantly less money than the roaming fees incurred by your home carrier. With a prepaid SIM, your phone effectively becomes a new phone with a new (now local) phone number. Instead of seeing “Verizon,” “AT&T,” or “Sprint” at the top of your phone, you might see “Vodafone,” “Yes Optus,” “M1,” or whatever provider you choose in the country you’re visiting. The first thing to check is if your phone will work where you’re going. If you’re unsure if your phone will work where you’re going, check the Wikipedia page for your phone or contact your provider.

Your phone will also require a removable SIM. (If your phone has an eSIM, as all new iPhones do, check out our blog post about those.) Most countries require a passport or other ID to buy a prepaid SIM without a contract, but switching the SIMs is easy. Most stores will do it for you while you’re there. Depending on the country/provider, this could take as long as 10 minutes but is often faster. The next question is easily the most complicated: Can you unlock your phone? Each carrier has different rules and criteria. Generally, if you have a brand new, expensive phone, they may not let you unlock it (there’s usually a waiting period after the purchase date). But if it’s a little older, or if you’ve paid it off, they probably will. The thing to remember is that a provider can deny an unlock request without giving a reason. You might be lucky, though; certain phones on certain providers are unlocked by default. Here are Verizon and AT&T’s pages on unlocking. Alternately, you can buy a pre-unlocked phone just for travel. Amazon and Best Buy, for example, sell unlocked phones. This is also a good option if you think you might lose your expensive phone and a cheaper one will suffice while you travel.

Plug adapter

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Best universal travel adapter.

With four plugs that will work in most countries, plus faster-charging USB ports (and more of them) than its competitors, this adapter is the best all-around choice.

In a sea of almost-identical travel adapters, the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter stands out, combining the best of the features we look for. It contains the three most common international plugs and a US-style plug, which should cover you in the majority of countries around the world. It has the most USB ports—four of the standard USB-A and one USB-C—of any universal adapter we tested, and it charged more of our devices faster. A replaceable fuse and an included spare should take the brunt of any accidental, unfortunate, or shockingly bad connections. The Epicka is fairly compact and well built, and it even comes with an extra USB cable and a nylon case.

However, no universal travel adapter is truly universal, and they’re all a lot bulkier and more expensive than simple plug adapters. If you want the smallest adapter possible, or if you’re going someplace where a universal adapter won’t work (more on that in a minute), a plug adapter could be what you need.

Ceptics International Worldwide Travel Plug Adapter 5 Piece Set

The best plug adapter.

Individually, these tiny plug adapters are smaller, lighter, and cheaper than any universal travel adapter. To juice up multiple devices, though, you’d need a separate multiport charger too.

The tiny plug adapters from Ceptics are barely larger than the prongs they convert. Small, simple, and cheap, they’re perfect for someone who wants to carry only the adapter they’ll need and who already has a multiport USB wall charger they like. Like our universal adapter picks, this set contains the three most common international plugs and the US plug. However, it also includes a somewhat rarer plug used in some European countries that has two thick, cylindrical prongs. This means that the Ceptics set will likely cover you in even more places—as long as you pack the appropriate plug adapter. These charts should help you find the shape you need before you order.

However, getting your gear to work in different countries isn’t quite as simple as it should be, and there’s no single solution that’s guaranteed to work for everyone. Our picks should work for you, but you may have some random piece of equipment, or be traveling to some country, for which our “good for most” picks just won’t work. (Case in point: One Wirecutter editor visited Iceland a few years back. The house she stayed in had outlets unlike anything on those charts, and the plug adapters she had used elsewhere in Reykjavik didn’t fit at all. It turns out the mystery sockets belonged to an obscure Italian system from the 1960s that was popular in Iceland for a time. Luckily, the hosts had power strips in the house that her adapters fit into.) The world is a big place, and when it comes to electricity and wall outlets, there’s a lot of variation. That’s important to keep in mind.

Whether two-prong or three-prong, an adapter just changes the shape of your plug, not anything about the electricity coming through the wires. However, this usually isn’t a problem because almost every power brick that comes with modern electronic gear is capable of accepting both the 110-volt standard used in the US and the 240-volt commonly used abroad. If your device has a power block on the cord, it likely says something like  “100-240 V ~ 50/60 Hz”—that’s the all-clear to use it without a voltage converter so long as the range covers the voltage of the country you’re visiting . This includes the vast majority of modern laptop and USB chargers.

Products without some sort of power block at the end or with a non-detachable cord—in particular, things with heating elements like hair dryers and curling irons—are more likely to need a voltage converter. Putting 220 V through a US 110 V device would be like attaching a firehose to a drinking fountain—you’re likely to blow your face off. But voltage converters are tricky devices, and most of the inexpensive ones have awful (or dishonest) reviews. Since hotels and hostels will often have hair dryers and most newer gear can do the full range of voltages, we strongly recommend that, whenever possible, you only bring items that work with a much simpler (and more reliable) adapter.

Wire/gadget organization system

Now that every device has a battery, every battery has a charger, and every charger has a cable—never mind power-plug adapters if you’re traveling abroad—the sheer quantity of accessories needed just to keep your gadgets running can take up more space than the devices themselves. And unless you organize them, you can bet on having to blindly fish them out of the least convenient spot at the bottom of your bag. Unfortunately, our pick for carrying tech necessities, the Incase Nylon Accessory Organizer, has been out of stock for a few years. It will, however, be coming back in 2024, according to Incase. If you prefer mesh to easily see your contents, or simply can’t wait for the Incase organizer to come back in stock, we also like the Container Store Micro Mesh Pouches .

The Incase cable organizer is a poly-nylon blend, so it’s durable. It is a soft-shell bag, however, so its contents can distort the bag’s shape when it’s full. But the bag’s edges remain rigid—so the seams don’t pucker—its contents don’t fall out, and zipping and unzipping the bag is still easy. We have other picks in our full guide to bag and cable organizers , including a roll-up bag and a stylish duo of cosmetics travel pouches ; we’ll also start testing other options to replace this one.

USB battery packs

A USB battery pack (also called a power bank) can keep your small electronics—from phones and cameras to tablets and more—going while you’re on the road. Although the length of your trip will determine exactly how much extra juice you’ll need to have on hand, whatever your requirements, we have a great USB battery recommendation for you. The Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K weighs about half a pound, and its rounded edges make it easy to hold or slip into a pocket. Its USB-C Power Delivery (PD) port can charge most handheld devices and recharge itself at top speed (with the right USB-C cable and wall charger), and it can pass power to another device while being recharged from a wall outlet. It only comes in one color, but it has enough capacity to fully charge most smartphones up to three times, as well as built-in USB-C and Lightning cables that are easy to slide in and out of their holsters.

If you’re traveling for leisure, try not to get too wrapped up in technology because you might miss what you’re actually there to do: experience a new place. OneBag’s Doug Dyment said in an interview, “Wearing headphones and staring at a screen is like putting a digital wall around yourself when you’re traveling. It makes you seem unapproachable and uninterested in what’s around you.” That may be a good thing if you do truly want to be left alone, but Dyment went on to say that some of his most memorable traveling experiences were the result of just looking lost and getting help from the locals. “One minute, you’re a lost foreigner in an unfamiliar village, then someone asks if you need directions. Before you know it, you’re eating dinner with his family.”

Travel binoculars

Athlon Optics Midas ED

The overall best binoculars.

Amazingly affordable with great optics, these binoculars have performance comparable with that of many models that cost thousands more.

Our top pick for binoculars is durable and great for near-home hikes. In hot or dusty environments that may call for a clearer optical boost, the Athlon Optics Midas ED 8×42 binoculars deliver top quality. Its focus dial offers a wide range of depths that makes it easier to see whatever it is you desire—birds, grass or darkened areas of the forest. Our recommendation comes with the assistance of a professional ornithologist who spent over 100 hours putting 17 pairs of binoculars to the test in the mountains of Southern California and the rain forests of southern Mexico.

Although the Celestron TrailSeeker ED binoculars don’t offer a clear edge-to-edge view to the same degree of the Athlon Optics Midas EDs , they’re a comparable runner-up model that’ll be lighter on your wallet if having binoculars while traveling is a must. The TrailSeekers are equipped with great light-gathering qualities, close focus, and impressive optical resolution. Or, if you’re concerned about saving space, we liked the Pentax AD 8x25 WP binoculars. While not quite as powerful as our other picks, this compact pair of binoculars is well made and easy to fit into a carry-on while traveling via plane.

Ebook reader

Amazon Kindle (2022)

The best e-reader for most people.

Amazon’s most affordable Kindle is also its most portable, and it’s finally been upgraded with sharper text on its 6-inch screen and support for USB-C charging. Those features bring it in line with much-pricier e-readers.

The entry-level Amazon Kindle finally got an upgrade and is now our favorite e-reader , with the same crisp display and USB-C charging as the pricier Kindle Paperwhite has (and with double the storage space of the previous entry-level model). Amazon’s well-stocked ebooks store remains its biggest selling point, along with the ease of checking out library books via Libby and sending them directly to a Kindle.

Even if you don’t have time for pleasure reading on your trip, it’s worth investing in a Kindle because many major travel guides are available in fully searchable ebook formats now. Furthermore, e-texts will also work on your phone, tablet, and computer, thanks to the Kindle ecosystem.

Packable daypack

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack

A pack that fits in your palm.

Toss this lightweight, phone-sized packable bag into your luggage or coat pocket, and you’ll never get caught without a spare bag again. If you need something to carry every day, though, we think you’ll prefer one of our more-structured picks.

Packing a stowable daypack, one that stuffs down to fit in your luggage when not in use, is a relatively small investment of space in exchange for a high return of function and flexibility. After researching dozens of packable daypacks across a spectrum of portability, features, and prices, and then packing, unpacking, loading, wearing, and drenching the top-rated finalists during multiple rounds of testing, the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack is the smallest and lightest packable backpack we recommend. Packed up, it is very discreet: nearly the size of a keychain accessory.

The bag itself is a no-frills sack made from a paper-thin siliconized Cordura nylon, which means it’s very light and water-resistant. It has reinforced stitching at stress points, allowing the Ultra-Sil to carry more weight than you would expect. That said, since this pack is made of such thin, light material, carrying large or awkwardly shaped loads is somewhat uncomfortable, especially when compared with our more structured picks.

If comfort or waterproofing is important to you, check out the alternative picks in our review of packable daypacks for travel .

Field Notes 3-Pack Original Kraft Memo Books

For ultimate portability.

Field Notes are cheap but contain high-quality paper that earns praise from pen and stationery geeks across the web.

For writing your adventures as you travel, you can’t beat the portability, practicality, and romanticism of a pocket notebook. There’s nothing better in that category than Field Notes (three-packs available in a variety of styles and types ). These pocket-sized notebooks are widely praised for their excellent paper quality, and the Pen Addict’s Brad Dowdy tells me “Field Notes is pretty much the runaway pocket notebook champ.” Dowdy has praised it for the lack of feathering or bleedthrough with almost any pen, as well as for the light brown ruled lines, which are easier to write over than solid black. Austin Smith of Art Supply Critic told us in an email that his recommendation is “Field Notes has it, no question.” The Well-Appointed Desk has reviewed a slew of different Field Notes variants for those looking for something a bit more interesting.

Field Notes Expedition

A weather-resistant option.

Weather-resistant Expedition Field Notes are great if you’re writing in wet conditions, but don’t get them if you don’t need them. The synthetic paper feels weird and can cause some inks to smear.

If you think you’re going to be writing in foul weather, Field Notes also has the waterproof Expedition version with pages made from a synthetic water-and-tear resistant paper. You should only get these if you really need them, because otherwise, they just feel unnaturally slick and are more prone to smearing ink. At least one user has said that the paper shows less soaking through when wet than the similar Rite in the Rain books . The one caveat is that the synthetic paper will only work with pencils and certain inks ; thankfully, the Uni-ball Jetstream RT , our pick for best pen , definitely makes the grade.

Things can go wrong while you’re traveling, both where you are and where you’re not. Though you can’t prepare for every worst-case scenario, the peace of mind that a little bit of preparation grants will allow you to focus on what’s in front of you, instead of having to worry about what could go wrong. But preparation doesn’t simply mean buying more stuff just in case; it also means making efficient use of what you already have.

Merchant & Mills for Purl Soho Rapid Repair Kit

For the best combination of sewing tools.

The Merchant & Mills Rapid Repair Kit is the only travel kit we found that had objectively high-quality thread and scissors.

There’s nothing quite like a wardrobe malfunction to put a damper on vacation, especially when traveling with limited clothing. A good travel-size sewing kit allows you to mend a popped button or ripped seam on the fly—or even tackle more pressing issues like fixing a tent, sleeping bag, or backpack. After 15 hours of research, interviews with sewing teachers and avid home sewers, and tests of six travel and full-size kits, we found the Merchant & Mills for Purl Soho Rapid Repair Kit had by far the best tools and was the easiest to keep organized. Standard travel sewing kits usually contain mediocre thread and plastic-handled scissors that break easily. They can also be hard to keep organized (a truth we confirmed when testing six top-rated travel and full-sized kits). The Merchant & Mills set was the only one that had high-quality thread, all-metal mini scissors (don’t worry, the TSA shouldn’t stop you ), and a durable tin case (about the size of a deck of cards) to keep everything well organized.

Because the sewing pins are neatly stuck into paper inside a slim envelope and the three needles are housed in a mini glass vial, this kit also limits the risk of losing a sharp object in your bags. We found the Merchant & Mills needles easier to thread than others (no need for a fussy needle threader!) and we also like the vintage-looking safety pins that come clipped together along with two small white buttons. Although this kit only comes with black and white thread, the thread is strong and there’s more of it than you’d get in a flimsier set with shorter strands of multiple colors. We do think it would be nice if the kit included a more durable measuring tape than the paper one included, but overall everything about this kit is leagues ahead of anything else we considered. We didn’t find editorial reviews for any of the kits we tested, but the Merchant & Mills rapid repair kit was recommended by several sewing bloggers and is sold in many reputable indie fabric shops.

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

The best umbrella for most people.

This is a solidly built, easy-to-find umbrella that holds up in high winds. It also comes in a variety of colors.

price may vary by color or style

An umbrella you take traveling should be small, light, sturdy, and affordable. After putting in 66 hours of research and evaluating a total of 48 umbrellas across five rounds of testing (including one thunder-snowstorm), we found that the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella is the best umbrella for most people. Its durable, nine-rib construction held up admirably against gale-force winds, and it’s as sturdy as umbrellas that sell for more than twice as much.

The Repel folds up to an 11½-inch long, 14-ounce package that fits easily into most bags and glove boxes. And it forcefully expands at a touch of a button to reveal an ample 37-inch-diameter canopy that protects your head and torso from precipitation in all but the windiest of conditions. Its lengthy, textured handle is easy to grip for hands of all sizes. We also appreciate that the Repel comes in a wide variety of colors, so it’s easier to pick yours out of a crowded umbrella bucket. Finally, despite its affordable price, it’s backed by a lifetime replacement guarantee, but only if you purchase directly from Repel and register the item under the company’s warranty.

Packing method for clothes

While packing cubes and other organization tools are helpful for maximizing your bag’s usable space, efficient packing is also achievable without the aid of tools and compartments. One Bag’s Doug Dyment tried all manners of folding aids and compression products but was unsatisfied with their claims of compression and wrinkle prevention. Frustrated, he developed his own method of packing clothes compactly called the Bundle Method, which he’s used and perfected over several decades of traveling.

The Bundle Method involves layering your shirts and pants at opposing angles on a flat surface, then wrapping them around a small “core” parcel (e.g. a packing cube full of underwear and socks). We won’t get into details, but Dyment does on his website ; you can watch this easy-to-follow video from NBC . The resulting bundle is compact and has no sharp creases that will require ironing out later on. Additionally, Dyment explains that “the slight tension created in the fabric by the wrapping process, along with the anchoring of the resulting bundle, greatly reduces the chances of wrinkling.” You then put it in your bag and use the tie-down straps to provide just enough pressure to keep it together.

While simple to perform, this packing method isn’t something you can master in one go. It takes a bit of practice, but once you get it, it’s like riding a bike. The downside is that you can’t just leave your clothing packed and expect to be able to access your underwear without fully unpacking your clothes first. But unpacking is a good habit to get into anyway, as it allows your clothes to breathe and avoid wrinkles or mildew. Wirecutter founder and frequent traveler Brian Lam says that unpacking the moment he enters a room has a grounding effect that allows him to feel a bit more at home in a new environment.

If this sounds like too much of a hassle for you, you can do what we did before we found out about bundling: roll up your socks and underwear tightly and place them in packing cubes, then put your wrinkle-prone items (shirts, pants, skirts, dresses, jackets) in a garment folder—we used the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Garment Folder . This is also travel guru Rob King’s preferred method of packing. Though the garment folder is not quite as space-efficient as the bundle method due to the added bulk of the folder and folding board, the plastic backboard does go a long way towards preventing wrinkles. Just be aware that if you leave your clothes in there for longer than a day, they’ll begin to develop unsightly creases that require an iron to get rid of.

A big thank-you to the Hotel Lucia in downtown Portland, Oregon, for lending us a suite to use for the photos in this guide.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Wirecutter Staff

Mentioned above

• There’s more to a great in-flight personal item than being small enough to stuff under a plane seat. Here’s how to choose the right one for your travel needs. The Best Underseat Luggage and Personal-Item Bags  
• The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is our backpack pick for most travelers. We also have picks for other travelers, including those who want to carry a bit more. The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks  
• After 10 years of airport dashes and overhead-compartment stashes, the Travelpro Platinum Elite is still the suitcase we want to carry. The Best Carry-On Luggage  
• After researching 30 models, we found that Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner is the best suitcase for most travelers who check bags. The Best Suitcases for Checking  
• We chose five luggage tags that will help you identify your belongings in a sea of similar suitcases. The Best Luggage Tags  
• After researching and traveling with packing cubes for more than five years, the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set is what we keep in our luggage. The Best Packing Cubes  

Further reading

How to Sleep Well (or at Least Better) While Traveling

by Christine Ryan

Our sleep and travel editors recommend gear for coping with travel-induced insomnia, vetted through hours of testing and years of personal experience.

The Gadgets We Bring on Every Trip

by Haley Perry

You don't have to be a digital nomad to travel like one. Here are a few gadgets and accessories to make travel as painless as possible.

Road-Trip Essentials

by Eve O'Neill

We spend a lot of time driving each year, and this is our list of essential road-trip gear to include in your packing list.

Tools and Emergency Supplies to Keep in the Car for Winter Driving

by Rik Paul

Here are the essential—and nonessential—items to carry in your car during winter driving to ensure you get to your destination.

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

The 6 Best Steam Irons of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested 30 steam irons—here are our top contenders

Emily Estep is a plant biologist and journalist who has worked for a variety of online news and media outlets, writing about and editing topics including environmental science and houseplants.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• How We Tested
• What to Look For

Standout Features

The checkout counter.

• Why Trust The Spruce

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Whether you're ironing a blouse for a day of work, quickly  de-wrinkling everyday clothes , or prepping fabrics for your next crafty DIY project, you'll want to reach for a dependable steam iron. The good news is that there are plenty of great brands out there that heat quickly and glide smoothly. But it can be quite a challenge to iron out which ones are the best on the market.

As part of our extensive research, we reached out to Jerry Pozniak , CEO of Jeeves New York, a professional dry cleaning service. "All irons do the same thing. They have a smooth metal iron surface, get hot, and most have the ability to produce steam." But, he adds, "The most important factors are reliability and weight. I prefer an iron that is heavier as it will aid in producing crisp creases and flat seams."

Taking Pozniak's advice, we asked ironing newbies and experienced professionals alike to test 30 steam irons in The Lab and narrowed down our list to the top six. To make sure we found the best of the best, we got to work ironing satin, linen, and cotton fabrics and rated each iron based on effectiveness, thoughtful design, portability, heat up time, and overall value. We also tested heating times and evaluated how each one removed wrinkles. We even extended our testing to six months, so that you would know exactly what you're getting over time.

Editor's Note: This review was revised in April 2024 with new testing insights.

Best Overall

Beautural 1800-watt steam iron.

Heats up in 10 seconds

Splash guard

Has an auto shut-off feature

Steam setting didn't perform as well on cotton

Limited availability through select online vendors

Hands down, our best overall pick is the Beautural 1800-Watt Steam Iron with Digital LCD Screen. We think it's ideal for beginners and professional ironers alike.

We gave this steam iron a perfect rating for its heat-up time because it was ready to use in just 10 seconds—the fastest of the 30 we tested. We especially appreciated that the display screen noted whether the specific fabric should be wet or dry. (You seriously don't have to do any internet research when using this device because all of the details are right at your fingertips.)

Plus, the display does an excellent job of telling you which setting to choose, so you won't waste any time. The iron also earned a perfect score for both design and portability. We think its ceramic soleplate is large enough to iron everyday fabrics with ease, and the grip handle is perfectly designed for hours of ironing. (This is ideal if you're a quilter working on a lengthy project or tackling a week's worth of dress shirts.)

During testing, when ironing satin materials , the Beautural iron only took one to two passes to remove all wrinkles and was able to remove a crease in one pass. On linen (both dry and steam settings), it removed all wrinkles and a crease in one pass. With cotton, this steam iron worked to remove all creases in one pass on the dry setting. We docked a few points on effectiveness because the steam setting took several passes to remove wrinkles and used a good amount of water to remove them all. We also noted that this cord is a little bit shorter than the majority of our picks; it's 6 feet whereas many of our options are 8 feet long.

Notably, this user-friendly iron is decked out with several safety features, including an automatic shut-off feature that'll kick in if it's idle for 30 seconds when lying flat. The water fill area has a splash guard to help prevent leaks or accidental spills onto your clothing, too. Even after six months, we found that the iron continued to perform as expected, and we were still amazed at its efficiency.

Dimensions: 5.75 x 4.88 x 11.3 inches | Weight: 3.18 pounds | Color: Gray and white | Cord Length: 6 feet | Wattage: 1,800 watts | Water Tank Capacity: 11.5 ounces

What is a soleplate?

When ironing, a soleplate is the part of the iron that comes into contact with your clothes and other fabrics. The type of soleplate material, such as stainless steel, ceramic, or aluminum, affects how well the iron glides over fabrics and how effectively it removes creases. A good soleplate should be non-stick and should not cause fabrics to snag when pressed.

BLACK + DECKER Advanced Steam Iron

Space-saving

Large water reservoir

Vertical steaming feature

No ready light

Cotton and linen fabrics are on the same setting

If you're looking to save space in your laundry room, opt for an iron with a retractable cord. The Black+Decker ICR2020 Steam Iron is our favorite because it's incredibly effective at removing wrinkles and is easy to store when you're done with your chore. It also has the best of both worlds: Like a clothes steamer , this iron has a vertical steaming feature, which is optimal for quick touch ups on hanging garments.

But the real reason we love it: It was able to smooth out all fabrics in just one to two passes in our tests, and we were impressed with how immediately it removed wrinkles from linen fabric. For cotton and linen, the iron heated in two minutes. For satin, it was ready in 30 seconds!

While we weren't too happy there was no "ready" or "not ready" light, we appreciated the detailed setting information, even though cotton and linen fabrics ended up being on the same setting. We also noted that the water reservoir is large, which is great when you have mounds of ironing to get through—you won’t run out of steam. After testing for six months, we loved how this iron packs a punch despite its diminutive size and continues to perform well. We think it's lightweight, yet still has all of the features and capabilities of a larger, heavier iron.

Dimensions: 4.84 x 11.73 x 5.79 inches | Weight: 2 pounds | Color: Green | Cord Length: Not listed | Wattage: 1,200 watts | Water Tank Capacity: Not listed

Can you use a steam iron without steam?

Yes! You can use your steam iron without steam. This is known as a dry iron. Dry irons work well on satin, silk, and wool. Using your steam iron as a dry iron is a cinch. Just empty the water reservoir, or dial it to its "dry iron" setting and iron as usual.

Best Splurge

Rowenta perfect pro station iron.

Docking station

Large water tank

Professional-grade performance

Heavy, bulky design

Our splurge-worthy pick is the Rowenta DG8624U1 Perfect Pro Station Iron because it delivers professional-grade results and comes with its own docking station. If you're someone who irons often or values the feel and design of a top-notch product, this is an excellent choice. The removable, 1.1-liter water tank and smartly designed pointed tip made this pick a definite standout in our testing. Plus, it has the longest cord of all of our picks at 12 feet.

During testing, this iron breezed through satin, linen, and cotton fabrics, and the steam was particularly spectacular at removing creases and wrinkles. This iron is heavier and bulkier than others we tested, which can be an asset if you need to apply pressure to a garment or seam, but it might seem more like a workout for everyday use. Katie Berry, The Spruce's Cleaning Review Board member and cleaning expert, stresses that "it's 12 pounds without water." Also, while the design is eye-catching, this iron does take up a good amount of space, so you'll want to make sure you have somewhere to store it.

We affectionately refer to this steam iron as a "workhorse" after using it regularly for six months to support our sewing and quilting. We especially love that it gets nice and hot, and you can iron for a whole session without running out of steam. In fact, this iron is equipped with a soleplate sporting 400 holes, meaning steam is precisely distributed. Just know this model had to have a permanent residence in our laundry room since with the docking station it's about twice as large as any other machine on our list.

Dimensions: 18.11 x 11.81 x 14.7 inches | Weight: 14 pounds | Color: Blue | Cord Length: 12 feet | Wattage: 1,800 watts | Water Tank Capacity: 37 ounces

Sunbeam Classic 1200-Watt Iron

Easy to distinguish between settings

Heats up quickly

Easy to grip

Did not work well on linen

Awkward spray nozzle placement

If you're looking for a no-fuss steam iron, we suggest opting for the Sunbeam Classic 1200-Watt Mid-Size Anti-Drip Non-Stick Soleplate Iron. As the name suggests, it packs a ton of good features for an affordable iron, and it was so quick to heat up and easy to use.

In our testing, this Sunbeam iron heated to 450 degrees in less than a minute. We loved that it was light and easy to maneuver, and we only docked half a point for portability because the 8-foot cord is not retractable. When it came to ironing multiple fabric types, this iron performed well on both satin and cotton, getting all of the ripples out in just a few passes. It took a little more effort to  remove wrinkles from the linen , and overall didn’t do too well there, hence our rating.

We also like that the iron is straightforward to use, and it's easy to distinguish between the settings. When testing, we also noted that the iron is easy to grip, but the spray feature is a little awkward to use because of its placement—it’s perched up high, so the water sprays out inconsistently. Even with this minor inconvenience, this option is for you if you're looking for a reliable basic iron to add to your routine. Even after six months of use, we love the iron for its long, 360-degree swivel cord, which allows for plenty of movement while ironing.

Dimensions: 6.3 x 11.6 x 5.6 inches | Weight: 2.7 pounds | Color: White | Cord Length: 8 feet | Wattage: 1,200 watts | Water Tank Capacity: Not listed

Best for Travel

Sunbeam hot-2-trot travel iron.

Lightweight

Large water opening to prevent spills

Irons armholes easily

Plastic smell

Difficult to sit upright

If you're looking for a travel steam iron to take on your business trips and vacations, try the Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot Travel Iron that we deemed small but mighty. It effectively de-wrinkled all three fabrics we tested, and we specifically noted that it's the perfect size to iron armholes and more delicate, hard-to-reach places, like collars and cuffs.

This tiny steam iron heated in under a minute, although our temperature gauge said it wasn't quite as hot as the manufacturer claimed. While it's lightweight, it's likely only good for someone with smaller hands as the features are quite tiny. The heat dial is miniature and the puff steam button is hard to click on. If you have long nails or larger hands, you might have difficulty using this iron. It was also troublesome to sit the iron upright because of where the cord meets the iron.

However, we love the large water opening and how you can quickly fill up the reservoir without spills—it will fit easily under awkward bathroom sinks in hotels. It also holds enough water for small craft projects, if you want an iron dedicated specifically for that use. Ultimately, this would be a great iron for traveling or crafting. We think you should opt for a more heavy-duty steam iron if you tend to iron frequently, or if you iron tough seams or larger quilts.

Dimensions: 3.46 x 3.13 x 6.57 inches | Weight: 1 pound | Color: Blue and white | Cord Length: 8 feet | Wattage: 800 watts | Water Tank Capacity: 3 ounces

Best Portable

Conair ez press steam iron.

Our testers liked that the Conair EZ Press 800-Watt Handheld Steam Iron was lightweight and had an indicator light showing when it was ready to get to work. For the most part, this iron effectively got all of the wrinkled creases out fairly adequately in our testing.

There were a few drawbacks, though. The stopper covering the water area felt cheap and dripped during the ironing process. And the soleplate was also pretty small, so this wouldn't be a great choice for someone ironing larger items. Still, we love how portable this model is and think it'll work great for college students or travelers. Even after six months of testing, this iron still held up, and we continue to be impressed with its effectiveness.

Dimensions: 6.8 x 4.29 x 5.12 inches | Weight: 1 pound | Color: Blue and white | Cord Length: 8 feet | Wattage: 800 watts | Water Tank Capacity: Not listed

Real Simple / Dera Burreson

Final Verdict

Our best overall pick is the Beautral 1800-Watt Steam Iron with Digital LCD Screen , because it's easy to use, effective at quickly removing wrinkles, and features a helpful display screen. Or consider the Black+Decker ICR2020 Steam Iron Vitessa Advanced Steam Iron with Retractable Cord as a best value option. This steam iron is incredibly effective at removing wrinkles and easily stores in small spaces.

How We Tested the Steam Irons

We spent one day thoroughly testing 30 irons to find the best ones. In The Lab , we tested and evaluated effectiveness , portability , heat time , the design , and overall value .  

• Effectiveness: We set wrinkles on three types of fabric ahead of the test. First, we wet the satin, cotton, and linen cloth napkins, and then balled up each napkin and secured it with a rubber band. We then let the napkins sit for a couple of days until dry. We ironed to see how effectively they removed wrinkles. The irons were tested on each fabric on both their non-steam and steam setting (if equipped), except for the satin—that fabric type should never be steamed. On the day of the test, we timed how long it took each iron to remove the wrinkles from each type of material. We also purposely added ironed creases to each fabric and then tried to remove them.
• Portability: While ironing, we made detailed observations on the device’s portability, noting how heavy the irons were when their water reservoir was full and how comfortable the iron was to maneuver across the ironing board. We also looked at the model’s cord length to evaluate how much flexibility users would have in the distance of their iron from the outlet where it’s plugged in.
• Heat Time: We measured the heating time of each iron, using a stopwatch to see how long it took to heat to the appropriate temperatures for ironing satin and delicates, linen, and cotton, noting if the time seemed quick, average, or unreasonably long. We also used a thermometer to make sure the soleplate’s temperature remained consistent and reached the advertised and desired temperature.
• Design: Throughout testing, we also paid attention to the design of each iron. We observed the device’s overall temperature, noting if the handle or body of the iron seemed uncomfortably hot. We looked at whether or not the water reservoir leaked water droplets, the ease of filling the reservoir, built-in safety features, the comfortability of the handle, how easy the controls were to operate, and the overall aesthetic of each device.
• Overall Value: After testing all 30 irons, we used our experience and the price tag to rate come up with an overall value of each iron.

All of the testing data was analyzed by our editors to make this list of the best steam irons. We also sent 10 irons home with long-term testers who used them over the course of six months to determine their longevity and real-world effectiveness. These testers evaluated the irons based on the attributes listed above, and shared whether the iron became a part of their everyday routine and a go-to product compared to previous models they had owned.

What to Look for in a Steam Iron

The life of a steam iron varies based on the quality of the iron, as well as how often you use it. For the most part, a top-notch steam iron can last 10 years, while lower quality ones might decrease in effectiveness after a couple of years. As we tested irons in the lab, we discovered a few key features that kept making our lists, such as temperature settings, steam output, portability, and safety features.

Precise Temperature Control

Temperature control is important when picking out a steam iron. Different  fabrics need to be ironed at different temperatures  so they aren't scorched or damaged. "Certain fabrics are sensitive to higher heat, says Stefan Bucur, a cleaning and organizing expert. "Ideally, a good quality iron should have a precise temperature gauge where you can easily switch to a lower heat when required."

It's also important that the iron heats up to its promised temperature in a reasonable amount of time. Some irons can heat up in a quick 30 seconds, while others can take minutes to reach the desired temperature. The Beautural 1800-Watt Steam Iron with Digital LCD Screen , our best overall pick, for instance, heats up in seconds. Plus, it has everything you need in a quality iron: it removes wrinkles without much effort, and it has an automatic shut-off feature for safety.

Effective Steam Output

"Steam penetrates the fibers to get rid of wrinkles, then the hot, dry iron will remove the moisture and give you a flat, crisp finish," explains Pozniak. It's handy to know that steam output is measured in grams per minute, and typically, the higher the grams per minute, the more effective the iron. Some models offer more than 200 grams of steam per minute, while others produce a less generous 35 grams per minute.

In addition to a powerful steam output, some irons (such as our best value pick, the Black+Decker ICR2020 Vitessa Advanced Steam Iron ) have a vertical steam feature that allows them to steam and de-wrinkle hanging clothes, much like a traditional steamer . You want to make sure an iron with a vertical steam feature also has anti-drip safety features, so extremely hot water doesn't leak out and cause harm. Whether vertical or horizontal, it's important that the steam output is powerful, because that's what distinguishes a steam iron from a dry iron.

Easy Portability

You should take into account the weight of the steam iron. A lightweight iron may be easier to use and put away than a heavier iron. So, if you're only using your steam iron to complete crafty projects every now and then, or if you have trouble lifting objects and would benefit from using a lighter iron, take that into consideration. Bonus points if the handle has a comfortable grip, too.

Plus, it's pretty nice to have an iron with a retractable cord so you can iron traditionally and then retract the cord for easy storage. We love the Black+Decker ICR2020 , our best value pick, for this very reason!

Safety Features: Automatic Shut-Off, Anti-Drip, and Retractable Cord

You should always look for the safety features on an iron. Common safety features include an automatic shut-off feature or anything that prevents water from dripping. Each model's automatic shut-off feature is a bit different. Some models, including our best overall pick, the Beautural 1800-Watt Steam Iron , will automatically shut off if not used after a certain period of time. Some will also begin cooling down if left in an upright position for too long. Remember, you should always unplug your iron when it's not in use, but a safety shut-off feature is still a huge sigh of relief in our book.

You should also look for an anti-drip feature. This keeps the iron from dripping water out of the soleplate. Dripping water obviously isn't safe around electrical cords, and it also can create frustrating water stains on garments . Look to our best basic pick, the Sunbeam Classic 1200-Watt Mid-Size Anti-Drip Non-Stick Soleplate Iron , for an anti-drip feature.

A retractable cord is also a useful feature when ironing, so you won't have to worry about anything left dangling or tripping you up. You get the power that comes from a corded steam iron, but you're able to store the iron away until your next laundry day with no bulky cord. For a model with a retractable cord, consider our best value pick, the Black+Decker ICR2020 Steam Iron

Digital Screen to Display Heat Settings

Many new steam iron models—such as our best overall option, the Beautural 1800-Watt Steam Iron —feature a digital screen that displays heat settings, temperature, and other useful information. If you're investing in an iron with a digital screen, make sure it enhances your ironing experience by showing essential details, such as exact temperature and which fabric setting you are on.

Self-Clean Option to Prevent Mineral Deposits

One essential rule to ironing: Clean your iron on a regular basis to prevent mineral deposits from building up and blocking steam vents. For optimal performance, you should empty the water from your iron's reservoir when you're done ironing. This will help prevent mineral buildup inside the iron. It will also prevent any accidental spills or leakage when storing your steam iron. Pozniak recommends using distilled water instead of tap . "Mineral buildup will kill an iron faster than anything else," he cautions.

If you'd rather not worry about remembering to empty out your iron, you can use a spray mister and lightly mist your garment to dampen it slightly before using a dry iron. "This is helpful when ironing cotton or linen, and you want a nice finish," Pozniak says.

Some irons, such as the Beautural ( best overall ), come with a self-clean option that takes care of cleaning your iron for you. Each model is different, but in order to use the self-cleaning function, place your iron over a sink and hold down the self-cleaning button until all of the water has drained from the soleplate. Once the water reservoir has emptied, release the self-cleaning button.

Before you check out, consider these products you may also need.

• Sally's Organics Spray Bottle : This stylish water mister, which we named as our best overall spray bottle , would be a great ironing companion, especially if you're worried about leaving water sitting in your iron's water tank.
• Brabantia Ironing Board C : If you're looking for a quality ironing board, we recommend this reliable choice , which comes with a removable cover and an extra-large iron rest.
• AmazonBasics Slim Velvet Hangers : Once you finish ironing, you'll want to keep your clothes wrinkle-free with these non-slip hangers, which we named as our best overall clothes hangers .

Why Trust The Spruce?

This story was written by Erin Johnson , who has previously tested and reviewed multiple vacuums, mops, and other household appliances for Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens, and Southern Living. For this article, Johnson took insights and feedback from in-lab testers to curate the list of our top picks.

Our Experts:

• Jerry Pozniak , CEO of Jeeves New York, a professional dry cleaning service
• Katie Berry , The Spruce's Cleaning Review Board member and cleaning expert
• Stefan Bucur , a cleaning, organizing, and design expert
• Emma Phelps , associate editor at The Spruce
• Michelle Lau , editor at The Spruce

More from The Spruce

• How to Iron Clothes: 4 Simple Steps
• How to Clean an Iron: Part by Part
• The Best Ironing Accessories to Help You Iron Like a Professional
• How to Get Creases and Dents Out of Shoes
• How to Get Permanent Marker to Stay on Fabric
• Steamer vs. Iron: What's the Difference?
• Can You Iron Dry-Clean Only Clothing?
• How to Select the Right Iron Settings for Any Fabric
• How to Clean Velvet Furniture
• Is Your Shark Steam Mop Not Steaming? 5 Fixes You Should Try
• How to Read Laundry Symbols
• How to Use a Steamer on Clothes
• 9 Smart Ways to Get Wrinkles Out of Clothes Without an Iron
• How to Wash Tablecloths and Linens
• How to Iron Linen Shirts and Pants
• How to Wash and Care for Curtains Three Different Ways

Your guide to the healthiest veggies: These are the best types to add to your diet

Are you eating your greens? Chances are, even if you get some veggies, you’re not consuming nearly enough. In 2019, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that only 10% of Americans are meeting their daily vegetable intake.

But it's never too late to make a change .

We’ve reported on the healthiest type of lettuce , the most nutritious potato options and the bell pepper with the most antioxidants , but what reigns supreme when you look at the vegetables as a food group? Here are the best greens to include for health benefits.

Healthiest vegetables to include in your diet

Any vegetable will provide essential nutrients, so “don’t discriminate,” registered dietitian Danielle Crumble Smith previously told USA TODAY. But if you’re looking to increase your vegetable intake and diversify your options, here are some of the best varieties.

Darker leafy greens are rich in many vitamins, including vitamins K and C, calcium and a host of antioxidants, Crumble Smith says.

Vitamin K has cardiovascular and bone health benefits and vitamin C helps protect blood cells against disease and aids in the absorption and storage of iron. Calcium supports healthy bones , teeth, muscles, hormone production and other bodily functions. Spinach and kale also contain lutein and zeaxanthin , two antioxidants that benefit eye health.

Here are the best leafy green vegetables to include in your diet, according to Crumble Smith:

• Collard greens
• Mustard greens
• Beet greens

Cruciferous vegetables make a great addition to your diet because they contain fiber and phytonutrients, which help prevent cellular damage. They also contain indole-3-carbinol, a compound shown to reduce the risks of estrogen-related cancers as well as colon cancer, Crumble Smith says. 

Cruciferous vegetables are also rich in folate, a water-soluble nutrient that benefits the digestive system and may prevent common cancers, cardiovascular disease, infertility, stroke, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. They also contain vitamin K and the dark green ones contain vitamins A and C, according to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 

Try adding these cruciferous veggies to your daily vegetable intake, Crumble Smith advises:

• Cauliflower
• Brussel sprouts

Why are vegetables good for you?

Eating a variety of vegetables ensures your body is getting the vitamins and nutrients it needs for daily function. , This is especially crucial for ones Americans don’t get enough of, like fiber and potassium. Fruit and vegetable intake is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease , cancer and mortality, studies show.

Even frozen vegetables are a healthy option. They may even offer more nutrients than those bought at your local grocer because you don’t know how long it’s been since their harvest date, Crumble Smith previously told USA TODAY.

"They’re flash frozen at their peak stage of ripeness when all those nutrients are there and preserved," she said. "Frozen veggies are a great, very nutrient-dense option and they’re also really good for people who forget there are veggies in the fridge that might be going bad before they get to it."

How many servings of vegetables per day?

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends 2 to 3 cups of vegetables per day for adult women and 3 to 4 cups for adult men. Here are a few examples of what counts as "one cup" of vegetables : 

• One cup of cooked dark green vegetables
• One cup of broccoli (fresh or frozen)
• Two cups of fresh raw leafy greens
• Two medium carrots or one cup of baby carrots
• One large bell pepper
• One large baked sweet potato or one cup mashed or sliced
• One avocado

Are avocados good for you? They may be worth the up-charge

Discover more health tips for your daily diet: 

• Healthiest beans: Options for protein, fiber, iron intake
• Healthiest grains: We compare whole, refined grain sources
• Healthiest apple: This kind has the most antioxidants
• Healthiest protein: Why this option may benefit long-term health
• Healthiest milk: This kind has more protein and less sugar

Just Curious for more? We've got you covered

USA TODAY is exploring the questions you and others ask every day. From "Is V8 juice good for you?" to "What is the healthiest salad dressing?" to "How long does weed stay in your system?" – we're striving to find answers to the most common questions you ask every day. Head to our Just Curious section to see what else we can answer for you.

Travel | Travel: How to spend 6 perfect days in the…

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Travel | travel: how to spend 6 perfect days in the scottish lowlands.

When one dreams of vacationing in Scotland, it’s the Highlands and not the Lowlands that comes to mind. Don’t take our word for it; even the national tourism board touts the Scottish Highlands as “the Scotland of your imagination and the perfect backdrop for your next adventure” on its website. And on National Geographic’s list of “Best of the World” destinations, only the Highlands gets love.

OK, so the Scottish Lowlands isn’t home to the monstrously legendary Loch Ness, majestic Cairngorms National Park, a historically rich clan culture or the setting of Mel Gibson’s bloody good film, “Braveheart.”

But while that and more causes Scotland’s southern side to bow to its northern neighbor in terms of tourism, the Scottish Lowlands is no plaid-clad red-headed stepchild in a nation that — fun fact — has the world’s highest percentage of redheads with about 13% of the populace. Speaking of numbers, nearly one out of every four overseas visitors to the northernmost country of the United Kingdom arrives from the U.S., according to VisitScotland ( visitscotland.com ).

So, with that in mind and knowing how much we Yankees love an underdog story, let’s ponder highlights of a perfect six days exploring the Lowlands through an American’s eye — taking roads less traveled while taking in rolling hills, gentle valleys, rugged coastline and quaint towns each more gorgeous than the next.

Breezing through Edinburgh Airport, you shuttle to the city’s newest major hotel. The 244 rooms of the W Edinburgh, the first in Scotland for the upscale brand, are spread across three buildings, and yours is in the 12-story tower that sticks out from the traditional architecture around it. Mixed as the opinions are over the building’s “walnut whip” roof, staying at a hotel topped with a giant chocolate swirl comes in handy when finding your way back after a day of sightseeing by foot. Nestled in the heart of the newly trendy St. James Quarter, the W ( marriott.com ) is within walking distance of every must-see in the city center. Refreshed from down time in your gadget-happy suite, you’re ready to see just how perfectly located your hotel is. (Rates for a standard room start at $371 a night.)

Hoofing it to Edinburgh Castle, the city’s most iconic landmark, offers a lesson in 3,000 years of history at the site of ghastly battles dating back to the Iron Age. You could spend an entire day here, but an afternoon date with some bottles of booze have you leaving the castle for a quick visit to the nearby National Museum of Scotland and its countless artifacts.

A time check of 3:30 p.m. has you scurrying to the Scotch Whisky Experience ( scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk ) for a pre-purchased tour that explains how single-malt Scotch whisky is made, but, oddly, not in the setting of a working distillery. It’s a trade-off because what you do get being in a purpose-built facility is the world’s largest collection of Scotch whisky, a breathtaking visual for the core audience, and a store with a whopping 450 types of the signature stuff. Nearly as impressive is that the prices are actually fair, but you know when to say when with your purchase of potent potables. Plus, there’s more walking to do and those bottles are heavy.

Window shopping along famous Princes Street leads to a short hike up Calton Hill for stunning sunset views. Being a Harry Potter fan, you check off Victoria Street, J.K. Rowling’s inspiration for Diagon Alley, and other sights around town believed to be connected to the global sensation.

Meandering in the direction of the W, you pop into one of many intriguing restaurants for dinner. It’s a quick one as the jet lag you’ve been fighting since seeing the “Welcome to Scotland” sign at baggage claim is finally winning.

Of course, you order the “Scottish Breakfast” at the W’s Sushisamba restaurant, which by night serves up a fusion of Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian flavors. Your cardiac-challenging platter comes with haggis, Lorne sausage, grilled back bacon, fried eggs and black pudding, which you know as blood pudding. You also are aware that haggis is banned in the States as the USDA frowns upon ingesting stomach fluids from slaughtered livestock. Despite sheep lungs being a key ingredient in haggis, you give it a nibble and realize that this Scottish staple isn’t half baaaad.

After check-out, you walk with your luggage to busy Edinburgh Waverley Train Station. A comfortable, hour-long ride on the Borders Railway terminates at Tweedbank, and you take the public bus to Abbotsford ( scottsabbotsford.com ), former home of 19th century novelist and poet Sir Walter Scott. The estate is so extraordinary, you add “Ivanhoe” and “Rob Roy” to your reading list.

Relying on mostly taxis and hired drivers for the rest of the trip — the countless roundabouts, alone, make driving on the left side not worth the risk — you transfer to Schloss Roxburghe ( schlosshotel-roxburghe.com ) for two fairy-tale-like nights at this luxury countryside escape in the heart of scenic Scottish Borders. A tasty welcome with champagne and canapes is followed by a stroll around the historic property. On the sprawling resort surrounded by rolling hills and flowing rivers are 130 units (52 of them cottages), a championship golf course and other sporty activities, a Finnish-inspired spa, and nooks aplenty to enjoy libations made with the handmade gin created from botanicals sourced on the estate.

Wisely deciding to spend the day here, just as the Duke of Roxburghe often did in a past life of the picture-perfect property once owned by him, you book fishing, archery, croquet and clay shooting with the resort’s country sports manager. A few minutes later you pinch yourself in disbelief you’re staying where someone actually has the title of country sports manager.

A full day of activities and therapeutic R&R has you hungry for a night topped with “Scottish bistronomy” at the new, on-site Charlie’s. From the venison and pigeon to the scallops and ham hocks, the restaurant’s estate-to-plate approach pleases the senses.

A yummy buffet breakfast at Charlie’s coupled with an early checkout and on-time hired driver, found on VisitScotland’s website, make for a great start to what promises to be a long, but great day. Appropriately, the first stop is The Great Tapestry of Scotland ( greattapestryofscotland.com ) in the Borders town of Galashiels. On permanent display here since 2021 is the story of Scotland’s history, heritage and culture as told through 160 linen panels hand-stitched by over 1,000 nimble-fingered volunteers.

Leaving the 155 miles of driving to someone else today allows you to make a pitstop at the Moffat Distillery ( moffatdistillery.com ), where an American-born proprietor and her English husband are making a go making wood-fired whisky and gin. Tours and tastings — their blended-malt scotch is a winner — are conducted daily.

After traveling along what motor enthusiasts deem as the most drivable roads in the U.K., passing adorable villages and where ferries to Northern Ireland run back and forth day and night, you come up to the electronically gated entrance of your five-star home for the next two nights. One mile beyond — and one mile off Scotland’s western coast — is Glenapp Castle ( glenappcastle.com ) in the bonny Ayrshire countryside. Built in 1870, this prime example of Scots baronial, an architectural style of 19th-century Gothic Revival, has 17 luxury units (as low as $419 a night) and a 4,500-square-foot, four-bedroom penthouse that sleeps eight and starts at $4,000 a night. The 36 acres of perfectly manicured gardens, lush woodland and stately structures have hosted dignitaries from Churchill to Eisenhower, and since you’re sleeping like a VIP and got a classy bagpiper welcome, you might as well eat like one, too; dining at Glenapp is an experience fit for royalty.

Leaving the castle for a day of sightseeing had better be worth it, and it is at the very start thanks to the adorable namesake animals at Kitchen Coos & Ewes ( www.kitchencoosandewes.com ). Getting up-close and personal with the iconic Highland coos and their sheepish pals is a treat, as are the traditional homemade breakfast and lunch that come with the more in-depth tours of this working farm. Next on the schedule is a much different tour up the coast in Alloway; Robert Burns Birthplace Museum pays tribute to Scotland’s favorite son, whose poetry and songs are beloved worldwide. That includes one sung every New Year’s Eve, at least in days of auld lang syne. Despite the museum’s name, Burns’ actual birthplace is a tiny room in a cottage located at another site a 10-minute walk away.

Dinner is in nearby Troon, specifically at The Rabbit restaurant inside the new, 89-room Marine Troon ( marineandlawn.com/marinetroon ), a destination hotel that prides itself as “representing the nexus between land and sea, sport and soil, and man and nature.” Burns might have done better, but one thing that can’t be improved is the Old Course of the adjacent Royal Troon Golf Club. Perhaps one day you’ll return to play 18 here, but for now you behold what you can of links that will host the 152nd Open Championship in July, the 10th time the hallowed course will have this honor.

You’ve had fun storming the castle for two exquisite days, and now it’s time to return to reality — but not through Edinburgh this time. On the way to Glasgow Airport, a more hectic, but closer option from the west, the art lover in you prompts a visit to The Burrell Collection ( burrellcollection.com ). This Glascow gem houses more than 9,000 pieces spanning 6,000 years of history, and if it weren’t for a plane to catch, you could see yourself spending more than the two hours already given.

But the Burrell Collection isn’t the only place you didn’t get your fill over these six amazing days in the Scottish Lowlands. With luck and a replenished travel budget, you hope to return, and soon. Or as the old Scottish saying goes, “haste ye back!”

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