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The 8 Best Travel Steamers to Keep You Looking Stylish on the Road

A compact clothing steamer can be a lifesaver on the road — here are our favorites.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

Despite our best efforts, packing for a trip often means arriving at a destination with wrinkled and creased clothing. And although many hotel rooms come equipped with an old-school ironing board, it can be a huge pain to unfold the clunky equipment and physically iron everything on arrival. Worse still, if your room doesn’t have an ironing board, paying to have the hotel press and steam individual garments quickly adds up.

Thankfully, portable handheld steamers make it easy and affordable to ensure you'll always look your best while traveling. The compact steamers tend to weigh about a pound or two and can easily fit into a carry-on bag or suitcase. Whether you prefer straight steaming, or would like a multi-purpose tool that irons as well, our list includes plenty of standout options for travelers of all types.

Best Overall

Nesugar g3 steamer.

It's sleek and stylish, so you won't mind this sitting on your bathroom counter for frequent use.

The water reservoir is quite small, so it needs to be refilled if you're steaming multiple garments in a row.

For a sleek steamer that truly looks like a high-end travel accessory, we love the compact Nesugar G3 Steamer. It comes with a soft bag to protect it while traveling and takes up no more room than a standard hair iron; plus, it's very lightweight at less than one pound. While it may be small, this steamer is also very powerful and heats up in just about 15 seconds. We used this to steam everything from silk to linen and there was no damage to any garments and, more importantly, it’s actually powerful enough to quicky get wrinkles out of pieces that had been stored away in packing cubes for days.

The Details: 2.6 x 1.65 x 9.1 inches | 0.75 pounds | 15 seconds to heat | 70 milliliters | 900 watts

Longest Cord

Hilife steamer.

This budget-friendly steamer is portable, yet it comes with an especially large water tank for efficiency.

This option is not cordless.

Travel steamers are significantly smaller than traditional stationary steamers which can sometimes mean the water tank is inconveniently small — but that’s not the case with the Hilife Travel Steamer for Clothes. This portable steamer offers a large, 240-milliliter tank with a total run time of 15 minutes before needing to be refilled (which is likely more than enough time to steam your garments for the day ahead). And, although this option isn’t cordless, it does have a nine-foot cord that will allow you to press your items without needing to be right next to a power outlet.

The Details: 6.8 x 5.5 x 7 inches | 1.8 pounds | 240 milliliters | 700 watts

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best Splurge

Nesugar steamer for clothes.

The steamer's nozzle can rotate 90-degrees, so you can direct the steam where you need it.

There’s only one setting, so you can't adjust temperature or steam amount.

Just slightly larger than the Nesugar G3, this steamer is another powerful choice for any traveler. Simply fill the 70-milliliter reservoir with water and 15 seconds later it's ready to steam. What sets this steamer apart is the 90-degree rotating nozzle that allows you to direct your steam in a vertical or horizontal direction without spilling water all over your garment. It also includes a wall mount bracket, so you can store it easily when not in use, and a soft bag to pack it away while traveling.

The Details: 3.1 x 1.65 x 8.9 inches | 0.8 pounds | 15 seconds to heat | 70 milliliters | 900 watts

Best Budget

Bear travel steamer.

This affordable steamer comes with a handful of attachments and features a chic, gold-rimmed design.

The cord is only six feet long.

We love the look of this steamer — the modern design and gold-rimmed finish give it a look that is much more sophisticated than any garment steamer has the right to be. But the Bear Travel Steamer’s looks aren’t the only reason we love it. The budget-friendly price point and small size make this option great for travelers who rely on a carry-on bag only.

This option heats up in 10 seconds and has a run time of about 10 minutes. The only issue is that it has a tank capacity of just 120 milliliters, which is a bit inconvenient if you’re hoping to steam multiple garments at once.

The Details: 8.31 x 5.91 x 2.99 inches | 1.45 pounds | 10 seconds to heat | 120 milliliters | 1,000 watts

Best Iron/Steamer Combo

Nori the nori press.

This high-end option allows for casual steaming and more crisp, pressed lines thanks to steaming and ironing capabilities.

It’s the most expensive option on our list.

Nope, this gadget isn’t a hair straightener. Nori’s unique iron/steamer combination makes it super simple to look put-together on the go — even after multiple days of travel. The clamp-enabled press can create sharp collars and sleeves, but instead of simply ironing, it also has a built-in steaming system that allows for quick and easy pressing on the go. It’s extremely compact and easy to pack, and although the tank is only 29 milliliters in size, the Nori Press still offers continuous steam for up to 10 minutes at a time.

The Details: 14 x 5.79 x 3.11 inches | 1.4 pounds | 3 minutes to heat | 29 milliliters

Most Compact

Polardo hand held portable travel garment steamer.

This lightweight steamer only weighs a little over a pound, which makes it great for tossing in your carry-on.

It’s extremely small and might be tedious to steam lots of garments with.

The idea of fitting a garment steamer into a tiny or already overstuffed bag might seem impossible, but the Polardo Hand Held Portable Travel Garment Steamer was truly designed to be as compact as possible. The ultra-lightweight steamer weighs a little over a pound and the compact size is about the same as a bottle of shampoo. We also love that this product heats up in just 25 seconds, effectively eliminating the waiting time that's usually associated with high-end steamers.

The Details: 7.7 x 3.4 x 3.4 inches | 1.2 pounds | 25 seconds to heat | 118 milliliters | 120 volts

Best Ergonomic

Electrolux garment steamer.

This option might be a little clunky, but the ergonomic handle makes it by far the most comfortable to use.

The large size isn’t the best for fitting in a carry-on bag.

If you prefer convenience (and tend to pack in a checked suitcase) this steamer might be the best option for you. The Electrolux Portable Handheld Garment and Fabric Steamer isn’t particularly compact or lightweight, but it does offer the best steaming action and largest tank capacity on the list. We particularly love this option because of the ergonomic design that makes it easy to both grip and manipulate while steaming all kinds of garments. We also love that the Electrolux heats up in just 30 seconds for fast and efficient steaming.

The Details: 12.4 x 7.1 x 7.1 inches | 4.02 pounds | 30 seconds to heat | 300 milliliters | 1,500 watts

Best for Thick Fabrics

Conair extremesteam hand-held fabric steamer.

This high-end steamer is ultra-efficient and powerful enough for thick fabrics like wool or denim.

The steam flow isn’t always consistent and can sometimes spit water.

The Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Hand Held Fabric Steamer is your best option if you want a product that can handle thick fabrics like wool, but also provide gentle steaming for items made of silk or chiffon. The “ExtremeSteam” technology also kills up to 99.9 percent of germs through steaming alone which makes it very appealing for getting off all the nasties that cling to your clothing after a full day of traveling or sightseeing. This option boasts a tank capacity of 215 milliliters which provides an excellent run time of 15 minutes.

The Details: 5.6 x 8 x 13.6 inches | 7.3 ounces | 40 seconds to heat | 215 milliliters | 1,875 watts

Tips for Buying a Travel Steamer

Prioritize portability.

Having a large steamer is great for efficiency, but it won’t do you much good if you aren’t able to comfortably fit it in your carry-on or checked suitcase. If you want something you can genuinely bring with you on each and every trip, you’ll want to opt for a small, handheld one that can easily fit in baggage of all sizes. Most handheld steamers should fit the bill, but make sure to read the dimensions to ensure you’re getting something compact and portable.

Look for extra features and attachments

It’s wise to purchase something with bonus features that can be used on various trips. There are some steamers that come with attachments that allow them to function as an iron for when you need a crisp press, while others allow you to steam thicker materials like wool or corduroy, too.

Steamers can be a faster and more eco-friendly alternative to ironing. According to Brian Jones, product and travel expert at Best in Edmonton, a steamer can be used instead of an iron to eliminate creases from garments, especially in delicate fabrics that cannot be ironed (such as silk, wool, and pleated goods). However, you’ll want to note that steaming your clothes may produce a smooth, casual finish rather than the crisp, pressured gloss of ironing.

Yes, it does work to clean your clothes if you're in a pinch. “Running the steamer removes odors and perspiration residue from garments, and helps to remove creases from goods that aren't best suited to laundering or dry cleanings, such as silks, vintage items, pieces with leather ornamentation, and other specific materials,” Jones explains.

The easiest steamers to use should have a large water tank, steady bursts of steam, and a comfortable grip that will allow you to get into nooks and crannies without having to strain your arm.

Yes! Portable steamers can be packed in carry-on luggage and personal items and go through airport security without issue. Just be sure to remove any remaining liquid before packing.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, T+L contributor Kaitlyn McInnis used her experience as a travel writer and lifestyle editor to curate a list of the very best portable steamers for those on the road. She also spoke with Brian Jones , product and travel expert at Best in Edmonton, for his professional insights.

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Oztoprak N, Kizilates F, Percin D. Comparison of steam technology and a two-step cleaning (Water/detergent) and disinfecting (1,000 resp. 5,000 ppm hypochlorite) method using microfiber cloth for environmental control of multidrug-resistant organisms in an intensive care unit .  GMS Hygiene and Infection Control; 14:Doc15 . Published online October 24, 2019. doi:10.3205/dgkh000330

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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

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

The 7 Best Travel Steamers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Wrinkles? We don't know them thanks to these tiny, yet powerful steamers

Emma Phelps is an associate shopping editor at The Spruce, specializing in bedding, home improvement, and home design. You'll find her byline on various topics from Tempur-Pedic mattresses to percale sheets. She loves testing out the latest sheet sets, throw blankets, and home fragrances on the market.

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

Another Option We Like

• How We Tested
• What to Look For
• Why Trust The Spruce

The Spruce / Leticia Almeida

There's nothing worse than realizing that you so carefully (or not-so carefully) packed clothes only to have them become a wrinkled mess during transit. While some hotels provide steam irons, Airbnbs or other vacation rental homes don't always supply that household tool. In such situations, especially if you're dealing with delicate fabrics, a travel steamer becomes an essential. These compact units are light enough to pack into a carry-on or duffel bag, yet they deliver powerful steam that eradicates all wrinkles from your clothes in just a few up-and-down motions.

While we haven't had the chance to test travel steamers in The Lab , we did conduct an at-home test with 29 clothes steamers of all kinds—travel steamers included. During this test, we measured each steamer's heat time, considered the water tank capacity, and evaluated the steamer's effectiveness against deep-set wrinkles. After all our testing, we can say: don't let a travel steamer's compact size fool you. Whether you're looking for crease-creating attachments or pocket-size devices, the models below are the best options to reach for when you're in a pinch—or should we say wrinkle?

Best Overall

True & tidy handheld garment steamer.

• Effectiveness 4 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Portability 4 /5

Very lightweight

Large stainless steel soleplate

See-through water tank

Tricky to fill water reservoir

Of all the travel steamers we tested, the True & Tidy Handheld Garment Steamer stood out the most and is the one to undeniably add to your suitcase. This colorful unit weighs just 1.5 pounds, and it breaks down into two pieces, making it extremely easy to stash in a bag of any size. We loved that its water reservoir is completely see-through, which allowed us to monitor exactly how much water was left. And it excelled in our testing, removing tough wrinkles with just a few passes, thanks to its powerful steam and stainless steel soleplate.

This travel steamer comes with a brush attachment that can help smooth fabric as you work, and it was ready to use in around two minutes. The handle stayed cool and comfortable for the duration of our testing, and the on-off rocker switch made the steamer simple and straightforward to operate. Our only woe when it comes to this travel steamer is that the water tank is a bit tricky to fill. You have to pour water in slowly. Otherwise, it backs up and overflows. However, beyond that one quirk, the product exceeded our expectations, earning perfect scores for design and value.

Dimensions:  6.5 x 4.13 x 8.62 inches | Weight: 1.43 pounds | Water Tank Capacity:  4.6 ounces | Power Level: 600 watts | Heat Time:  80 seconds | Steam Time:  10 minutes

The Spruce / Camryn Rabideau

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Pure enrichment portable garment steamer.

• Effectiveness 3 /5
• Design 4.5 /5
• Portability 5 /5

Long power cord

Easy to fill water tank

Not best for deep-set wrinkles

Need to refill tank when steaming multiple garments

A close runner-up is the Pure Enrichment PureSteam Portable Steamer. During testing, we found it was easy to twist off the top nozzle and fill the water tank—a process that wasn't so easy when using our "best overall" pick. Although, this steamer's compact size does mean you'll have to refill it if you have multiple garments to steam. But, we think it offers just enough steam time to finish at least one or two garments. Plus, the power cord is 8 feet long, making it easy to maneuver around your garment and navigate outlets in your hotel room or Airbnb.

This steamer is one of the lightest models we tested at just over 1 pound. It would easily fit into a suitcase or carry-on bag without making your bag overweight or taking up too much space. As is to be expected with smaller clothes steamers , this model isn't the best for eliminating deep wrinkles, but it did efficiently eliminate most wrinkles with just a few passes. All in all, if you're torn between our top recommendations, know that both models are easy to hold and operate, and quick to heat up.

Dimensions:  8 x 5.5 x 3.2 inches |  Weight:  1.13 pounds |  Water Tank Capacity:  4.4 ounces |  Power Level:  800 watts |  Heat Time:  2 minutes |  Steam Time:  10 minutes |  Steam Settings:  1

Best Budget

Black+decker easy garment steamer.

• Effectiveness 4.5 /5
• Design 4 /5

Slit in nozzle gives off impressive steam

Large, easy-to-fill water tank

Extremely effective at removing wrinkles

Somewhat bulky design

The great thing about travel steamers is they're typically quite budget-friendly, and one of the best values we found was the Black+Decker Easy Garment Steamer. Despite its low price, this steamer worked extremely well in our tests, removing wrinkles in just one or two passes. We loved that its nozzle has a slit-shaped opening, which allowed more steam to come out and helped deliver faster results.

This travel steamer takes about a minute to heat up, and there's a large window that lets you see into the water tank to monitor how much is left. The top of the unit twists off when you need more water, and we had no issues filling the water tank from the faucet. The steamer is slightly bulkier than other models we tested, but it's still compact enough to fit in a carry-on or another suitcase.

Dimensions:  8.15 x 3.7 inches | Weight: 1.9 pounds | Water Tank Capacity:  7.4 ounces | Power Level: 900 watts | Heat Time:  80 seconds | Steam Time:  8 minutes

Best Splurge

Beautural steamer for clothes.

• Value 3.5 /5

Includes several handy accessories

Great for creating creases

Longer steam time than average

Accessories allow you to do more with your travel steamer, and the Beautural Steamer comes with three handy attachments: a brush, a lint brush, and a crease clip. This steamer is on the larger side, making it slightly bulky to travel with, but in testing, we liked that it's able to remove most wrinkles within a few passes. We were also impressed with the crease clip, which made crisp, clean creases with just one pass.

The Beautural Steamer only takes a minute or so to heat up, and its water tank delivers up to 15 minutes of steam. We liked that it has a locking trigger for continuous steaming—the only thing we didn't like is that the water tank opening is tiny and awkwardly placed, making it tricky to fill without spilling.

Dimensions:  10.7 x 4.3 x 6 inches | Weight: 2 pounds | Water Tank Capacity:  8.8 ounces | Power Level: 1200 watts | Heat Time:  30 seconds | Steam Time:  15 minutes

Best Compact

Isteam steamer for clothes.

Release button for water tank

Can be used both horizontally and vertically

High-quality brush attachment

Not as effective in horizontal position

If you don't want to sacrifice any more suitcase space than is absolutely necessary, it's worth splurging on the iSteam Steamer. This sleek little device is one of the smallest we tested, yet it blew us away, heating up in less than a minute and delivering enough steam to remove wrinkles in just a few quick passes.

This steamer has a water tank mounted to the front, and an easy-to-press button releases the tank for filling. All of its pieces are made from thick, durable plastic, and we were even impressed with the quality of its brush attachment, which had significantly more bristles than other options. You can even use this steamer at an angle thanks to its no-drip design—though, we found it was less effective in a horizontal position, as the steam tends to taper off a bit.

Dimensions:  9.1 x 6.4 x 4.4 inches | Weight: 1.55 pounds | Water Tank Capacity:  4.1 ounces | Power Level: 900 watts | Heat Time:  25 seconds | Steam Time:  10 minutes

Best for Heavy Materials

Magicpro portable garment steamer.

• Effectiveness 4.3 /5
• Design 3.8 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

Strong steam production

Easy-to-operate trigger

Sturdy, durable form

Can be bulky in suitcase or bag

It generally holds true that the larger the steamer, the more power it packs. The MagicPro Portable Garment Steamer is an unbeatable model in terms of steam output, making it ideal for heavy fabrics like wool or denim. But, the major downside is that it's fairly bulky and takes up quite a bit of space in your suitcase. Still, we were wowed by this steamer, which has a water reservoir attached to the front of its sturdy, durable body. It was able to remove wrinkles in one to two passes, working significantly better than similarly-sized models and earning a perfect score for effectiveness.

The MagicPro Steamer has a trigger-style button that turns the steam off and on, and it automatically locks in, saving you from having to hold it down the whole time. It's ready to use after just one minute of heating—impressive for its size—and it comes with a brush attachment, as well as a lint brush.

Dimensions:  12.8 x 7.09 x 5.35 inches | Weight: 2.81 pounds | Water Tank Capacity:  10.1 ounces | Power Level: 120 watts | Heat Time:  25 seconds | Steam Time:  15 minutes

Best for Wedding Dresses and Delicate Items

Conair 2-in-1 garment steamer.

Heats up extremely fast

Four steam settings

Includes a variety of attachments

Oversized and bulky design

Doesn't work well horizontally

The last thing you want on your wedding day is to accidentally scorch your wedding dress—which is why we recommend the Conair Turbo Extreme Steam for delicate items. This steamer comes with a unique "delicates bonnet" attachment that helps to diffuse the steam, yet it doesn't hamper the unit's effectiveness. It was able to remove wrinkles from fabric in just a few passes in our testing, and we were impressed that it heated up in less than a minute, as well.

There's one major downside to this steamer, and that's its size. The unit is about 1 foot tall and weighs over 3 pounds, making it one of the largest options on this list. It wouldn't be good for frequent fliers who only travel with a carry-on, but we think it would come in handy at weddings or other special events, in particular.

Dimensions:  11.61 x 11.61 x 6.02 inches | Weight: 3.5 pounds | Water Tank Capacity:  8.5 ounces | Power Level: 1875 watts | Heat Time:  < 1 minute | Steam Time:  10 minutes

Final Verdict

To keep your clothes looking fresh on the road, we recommend the True & Tidy TS-10 Handheld Garment Steamer . This compact unit is extremely lightweight and easy to operate, and it delivers an impressive blast of steam that removes wrinkles fast. For a more budget-friendly option, we also like the Black+Decker HGS011F Easy Garment Steamer . While slightly larger, its unique slit opening gives off ample steam for tackling wrinkles in fabrics.

Bear Portable Handheld Clothes Steamer : We have not had a chance to formally test this steamer, but one of our editors, Mia Ingui , says she loves this steamer as a travel option because it's not too cumbersome in her luggage and it effectively removes wrinkles without requiring refills. Plus, it can double as a steam iron in a pinch! While she wishes this model had a power switch, it's still a solid steamer that's also well-designed.

How We Tested the Travel Steamers

We purchased and tested 29 clothes and travel steamers in one of our homes for several hours over the course of two months. To start, we unboxed and set up each steamer, noting how clear the instructions were and how intuitive the design of the steamer is. We noted whether it was durable and practical, and if the buttons were placed well. We also considered whether each model could be described as a stylish option, and if the steamer came with accessories like a case or a brush attachment.

Next, we evaluated the heat time of each steamer by timing with a phone stopwatch how long the water took to heat up. We then used wrinkled linen napkins to test the effectiveness of each steamer and try out all the settings. Throughout our use of the steamers, we asked ourselves the following questions: How quickly did the steamer remove the wrinkles? Did it take one pass, three passes, or five passes to remove them? Did the napkin feel damp afterward? We answered all of these questions before also rating the portability of the product, and noting how easy it was to hold or carry around. We put the travel steamer in a packed carry-on bag to see if it would be practical to pack it in a suitcase and if it drastically altered the weight of the bag.

Lastly, we applied our hands-on experience to rate the overall value of the product and decide if it's worth the money you'd spend on it. All of these insights were boiled down to this list of what we believe are the very best travel steamers.

What to Look for in a Travel Steamer

Heat and steam time.

When comparing different steamers, you'll want to look at their heat and steam times. The former indicates how long the unit takes to heat up and be ready for use, while the latter indicates how long the steamer runs when the tank is full. The longer the steam time, and the larger the water tank capacity, the more garments you can often de-wrinkle in one steaming session, without having to run to the sink to refill the tank.

"I like [a steamer] that has a decent amount of continuous run time—10 minutes, at least—so that you don't have to stop and refill several times," says Melissa Maker of Clean My Space. Our "best for heavy materials," the MagicPro Portable Garment Steamer , has a 15-minute steam time, which could allow you to easily steam a longer dress or multiple T-shirts. While travel steamers sometimes sacrifice steam time due to their small sizes and thus smaller water tanks, all of the models in our roundup have steam times just under or slightly over 10 minutes.

Size and Weight

A steamer's size not only impacts its steam time, but it also determines how packable it is in luggage. If you're going to be packing a steamer in your suitcase, it should ideally be compact and lightweight—otherwise, it will prevent you from packing other necessities. The unit's weight will also impact its usability. "A steamer should be a manageable weight, comfortable to hold, and nicely balanced, so it's not too top or bottom-heavy," says Maker. Our "best overall" pick, the True & Tidy TS-10 Handheld Garment Steamer , is very lightweight at just 1.5 pounds, and it can be separated into two pieces for even more packability.

Design Features

There are multiple design elements to keep in mind when picking out your travel steamer. Although a slimmer travel steamer is great to easily slip into a suitcase, it may be top-heavy and lack a handle, causing a greater risk of accidental burns and complicating the cool down process. For that reason, you want to look for a steamer that has a well-distributed design. Additionally, you should look for a steamer that has an easy-to-access water tank. Some options can be tricky to refill, while others may feature an easy-release button, such as our "best compact" pick, the iSteam Steamer . Our "best for wedding dresses and delicate items" pick, the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam 2-in-1 Garment Steamer , may be one of the bulkiest handheld steamers in this roundup, but it has a comfortable handle and larger water tank.

Most travel streamers are lightweight and portable when you compare them with traditional clothes steamers. Most weigh less than 2 pounds, and some of the more compact varieties are no larger than a travel mug. This makes them easy to slot into even the smallest of suitcases. We particularly love the iSteam Steamer for its compact size. It was the smallest one we tested, but didn't sacrifice effectiveness or features.

Some travel steamers are lighter and more ergonomic than others, making them easier to use. While what's easiest for you ultimately comes down to personal preference, selecting one that you can hold at any angle without the water spilling out is helpful. Those with a larger water tank will save you the inconvenience of refilling them so often, as well. Our "best overall" pick, the True & Tidy TS-10 Handheld Garment Steamer , can be tricky to refill, but is very lightweight and comfortable. Notably, the handle stayed cool for the duration of our testing.

Travel steamers absolutely work! Standard-size clothes steamers are more powerful and carry more water, so they are much better for steaming multiple garments and heavy fabrics, such as wool and denim. However, a quality travel steamer will still effectively lift creases out of the clothes you are taking on vacation or a business trip.

To produce steam, travel steamers need to generate water temperatures of more than 200 degrees Fahrenheit. That means you need to use any clothes steamer with care , to avoid accidental burns and spills. For use with heavier fabrics, temperatures can reach as high as 395 degrees Fahrenheit on many standard clothes steamers, but the less powerful travel varieties don't often reach these temperatures.

While they may seem similar, steamers and irons serve different purposes in the laundry room. Steamers use hot steam to relax fibers within a fabric, while irons are used to press and smooth fabric and create creases. Further, steamers are typically used vertically on hanging garments, while irons require a horizontal surface, such as an ironing board .

Yes, travel steamers can be packed in a carry-on or checked bag. Just make sure they don't contain any liquid. 

Steamers are effective at sanitizing clothing due to the hot temperature of their steam, but they don’t necessarily clean your garments. The hot air kills bacteria, but it doesn’t get rid of dirt, grime, odors, or sweat that may be on your clothing.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was written by Camryn Rabideau , a freelance writer and product tester for The Spruce. As she started her research into travel steamers, she spoke with experts for insights on the benefits of steaming, what to look for in a travel steamer, as well as how to steam clothes properly. Rabideau personally tested 29 different clothing steamers, including a wide range of handheld models, evaluating each one on its design, portability, heat time, effectiveness, and value. She took these scores, as well as her overall experience with each steamer, into consideration as she put together this list of the best travel steamers.

Our Experts:

• Wayne Edelman , CEO of Meurice Garment Care
• Melissa Maker , cleaning expert and founder of Clean My Space
• Emma Phelps , an associate editor for The Spruce, updated this roundup with additional information from Rabideau's original testing.

Oztoprak, Nefise, et al. “Comparison of Steam Technology and a Two-Step Cleaning (Water/Detergent) and Disinfecting (1,000 Resp. 5,000 Ppm Hypochlorite) Method Using Microfiber Cloth for Environmental Control of Multidrug-Resistant Organisms in an Intensive Care Unit.” GMS Hygiene and Infection Control , vol. 14, 2019, p. Doc15.

More from The Spruce

• How to Remove Wallpaper Using Steam in Just 6 Steps
• How to Use a Steamer on Clothes
• Steamer vs. Iron: What's the Difference?
• 9 Smart Ways to Get Wrinkles Out of Clothes Without an Iron
• How to Steam Clean a Mattress
• How to Clean Velvet Furniture
• Is Your Shark Steam Mop Not Steaming? 5 Fixes You Should Try
• Can You Iron Dry-Clean Only Clothing?
• How to Clean a Clothes Steamer
• How to Remove Wallpaper: 4 Easy Ways
• How to Clean Carpet the Right Way
• How to Pack Clothes for Moving
• 11 Surprising Things You Can Clean With a Clothes Steamer
• How to Dry Clean at Home
• How to Clean Dirty Floor Tile Grout Using 3 Simple Methods
• How to Wash and Care for Curtains Three Different Ways

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

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

782 Published Articles

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

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

34 Published Articles 3169 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

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.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

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.

Was this page helpful?

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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6 best travel steamers to keep your clothes wrinkle-free

You could spend hours neatly folding your clothes into packing cubes , but no level of preparation will perfectly stop your evening pants and dress shirts from developing a few creases along the way. While many hotels come with some sort of iron or steamer, it may be easier to bring your own — especially if you are traveling for a wedding or special event — as you never know how hot an iron or steamer may get, or how it will work on your clothing .

Steamers usually heat up to around 200 degrees Fahrenheit, with the higher temperatures can help ease out dense creases, according to our experts. Travel steamers specifically offer up the same benefits as a regular steamer, and are often found in compact sizes, which make them easy to pack.

To help you find the best ones on the market, we consulted travel experts and Select staffers about their favorite options.

SKIP AHEAD The best travel steamers in 2023 | How to shop for travel steamers

Our top picks

• Best overall/editor’s pick : Hilife Steamer
• Best budget pick : Urpower Steamer
• Best splurge : Steamery Cirrus 3 Iron Steamer

How we picked the best travel steamers

All of our picks are expert-recommended or highly rated with an average of four stars or higher and in line with our expert guidance. We also included Select staff recommendations and kept the following in mind:

• Weight : Every travel steamer on our list weighs less than 2 pounds.
• Attachments : Some steamers come with attachments like a brush or a lint remover. For ease while traveling, we chose steamers without any additional attachments to save you space in your carry-on or checked bag.
• Capacity : This indicates how much water the steamer can hold. The more it holds, the longer it can continuously run. We recommended steamers that can hold up to 240 milliliters (which is about 15 minutes of steaming).

Shopping 5 best travel backpacks

The best travel steamers in 2023.

To help you find the best travel steamers for your next trip, we took into consideration expert recommendations, staff picks and highly rated options that will fit in your luggage while traveling.

Steamery Cirrus 3 Iron Steamer

Steamery’s Cirrus 3 is a personal favorite, as it removes wrinkles and creases on my dresses within minutes. It's a hybrid iron and steamer that can eliminate any odors and bacteria from your clothing and can hold up to 90 milliliters of water in its tank, according to the brand. Its auto shut-off feature, which turns the steamer off after 30 minutes of inactivity, especially gives me peace of mind while traveling. I primarily use this steamer for cotton, linen and silk clothing. That said, you can also use it on fabrics like viscose and cashmere, but should avoid leather and suede as it may damage your clothing, according to the brand. This one also comes with a wearable glove, to keep you from burning your hands.

Capacity : 90 milliliters | Weight : 1.89 pounds

Urpower Steamer

This travel steamer, which has a 4.3-average star rating from over 10,000 reviews, is a favorite of travel journalist and writer, Rana Good , for how quickly it works. “It gets my clothes steamed in minutes and is especially good to use with flowy materials like silk,” she says. It heats up within two minutes and has a water tank that allows for continuous steaming for up to 10 minutes, according to the brand. You can use it on your clothing, but also on drapery and table cloths — just make sure not to tilt it more than 45 degrees to avoid any spillage, according to Urpower. Plus, it has an automatic shut-off feature that kicks in if the steamer overheats or if the water level is too low, as detailed on the product page.

Capacity : 130 milliliters | Weight : 1.2 pounds

Brynnl Mini Handheld Steamer Iron

If you're looking for a mini iron steamer, consider this Brynnl option, which comes highly recommended by travel blogger and advisor, Sally Nguyen for its compact size, which she described as similar to the iPhone 14 Pro. It has a simple one-button start feature and you can use it to ease wrinkles on cotton, silk and linen fabrics, according to the brand. The pointed curved design should help you iron out corners and hard-to-reach areas around buttons and collars, according to the brand. It also heats up in about three minutes and has a ceramic, scratch-resistant bottom plate that slides smoothly over your clothes when using it as an iron, according to the brand.

Capacity : around 44 milliliters | Weight : 0.66 pounds

Hilife Steamer

This top-rated handheld steamer, which has a 4.3-star rating from more than 90,000 shoppers, can emit steam within 140 seconds and works on a variety of fabrics including chiffon, silk, wool, cotton and nylon, according to the brand. Its 240-milliliter water capacity provides up to 15 minutes of continuous steaming (the longest on our list) and its 9-foot cord provides easy access and maneuverability.

Capacity : 240 milliliters | Weight : 1.7 pounds

Perfectday Garment Steamer

This mini travel steamer is another favorite of Nguyen’s for its safety features including its automatic shut-off functionality that kicks in when it is overheating or short on water. It can store about 100 milliliters of water and can run continuously for about 10 minutes, according to the brand. The nozzle head, which has eight steam holes for rapid venting, is removable too, making it easy to pack. The 1-pound steamer also comes with a fabric brush to get any dust, dirt or debris off your clothes. And, while it’s great for removing wrinkles from your clothes, Nguyen also uses it for facials, as the steam moves in one uniform direction, which allows it to coat her face evenly. “It helps me take care of my skin when I travel as it clarifies my skin and unclog my pores,” she says.

Capacity : 100 milliliters | Weight : 1 pound

PerfectDay Garment Steamer

The nori press.

The Nori Press is a favorite of Select editor Lindsay Schneider as it doubles as an iron and steamer and functions like a flat iron for your clothes. It comes with six fabric settings, a clamping mechanism to press your clothes and a pointed tip that can iron hard-to-reach areas like collar corners. You’ll press its two aluminum plates against the front and back of each garment to minimize creases and wrinkles. At 1.4 pounds, it has a 29-milliliter water tank and an auto shut-off feature, which turns the device off after 10 minutes of no movement, according to the brand.

Capacity : 29 milliliters | Weight : 1.4 pounds

Shopping 5 best packing cubes for travel

How to shop for travel steamers.

Aside from looking for steamers with portable and lightweight designs to make travel easy, here’s what our experts recommended searching for while shopping:

Heat-up time : The faster the steamer heats up, the better, when living life on the go, according to Nguyen. We chose steamers that do so in under three minutes.

Size : Since every steamer weighs less than 2 pounds, it won’t add too much weight to your bags.

Works on different materials : A quality steamer should work on a range of different materials including linen, nylon, cotton and silk, according to Good.

Meet our experts

At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Rana Good is a travel writer and founder of Naïra , a digital magazine for women of color.
• Sally Isabella Nguyen is an influencer and luxury travel advisor who has traveled to over 37 countries.

Why trust Select?

Nishka Dhawan is an associate commerce editor at NBC Select who’s written about the best travel backpacks and the best luggage sets . For this article, she interviewed travel bloggers and journalists about their favorite travel steamers and considered staff favorites as well.

Catch up on Select's in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.

Nishka Dhawan is the associate commerce editor at NBC Select.

Best Small Steam Iron for Travel 2023

Whether you travel by train, plane or automobile, wrinkled clothes are an inevitable part of the journey. Regardless if you’re traveling for work or pleasure, unpacking your luggage will reveal clothes that don’t look like they should. The solution is much simpler (and cheaper) than you think.

A mini travel iron takes up less space than your average shoe and will add little more than a pound of weight to your luggage. They are also dual voltage, which makes it perfect for European vacations.

Our absolute winner is the Oliso M2 Mini

Unless you’re going for that “I slept in these clothes” look, this tiny little appliance makes a big impact on how you look, as well as the impression you leave behind. They also work perfectly for students who need a quick way to look sharp before class. We’ve reviewed the top performers for you to choose from…

1. Oliso M2 Mini Travel Iron

It’s not the cheapest, but its the most powerful of all the travel irons we’ve tested. It’s ideal for taking with on your next overseas adventure or if you just need to iron the occasional work shirt at home. From personal experience, Oliso is a brand name to trust. Yes, you may spend a little more initially, but, you won’t risk wasting time or money on an underperforming appliance.

• Great 1000 watts performance
• Great Quality
• Dual-voltage switch
• Slightly more expensive

2. Rowenta First Class DA1560 Folding Travel Iron

• 1000 watts of power
• GoodQuality
• Flat folding handle & carry bag
• Handle can feel weird

3. Steamfast Small Mini Travel

• Lightest steam iron in the world
• Dual voltage capabilities
• Heats up in 15 seconds
• Medium Quality

4. Sunbeam Hot-to-Trot with Dual Voltage

• Cheapest travel steam iron we’ve tested
• Not ideal for vertical steaming
• Average build quality

Travel Iron Review – Buyers Guide

Highest power output.

Both Oliso and Rowenta have 100 watts of power. This is compared to a full-sized iron which is usually around 1700 watts. So expect it to be a little slower to warm up, but given their small size, they still pack a punch and iron really well. If you need something bigger, check out our best steam irons for clothing article instead.

Most Compact Mini Iron

Small, lightweight mini irons mean you can always take this convenient appliance with you, even for short overnight stays. Steaming ironing clothes is so quick and effortless with an appliance only just bigger than your hand. They also help you to get more than a day’s wear our of some clothing. A quick steam will freshen up garments and even removes faint odors.

The Steamfast mini travel currently holds the title of world’s smallest iron, and after checking the facts, we can confirm this claim.

Not only is it tiny, but it’s also as light as a few feathers, 1 pound to be exact. It’s so teeny tiny yet delivers impressively in both heating speed and steaming capability. It is super comfortable to operate making it the winner not only in this review but as a favorite choice on Amazon too.

All the travel irons listed above can be packed in your carry on luggage too. The TSA Rules confirm that as long as you don’t attempt to use in during the flight, you have their approval.

Best Cheap Steam Iron Choice

The Sunbeam is a near-impossible price to beat. If budget is a factor in picking out your travel iron, then this option will be the lightest on your pocket.

Dual Voltage Performers

All of the above reviewed mini travel irons are dual voltage so book that overseas holiday. Yay! Only the Cordless Panasonic does not qualify in this category.

Globe trotters need an iron that can switch between the lower 100 and higher 240 volts. Depending on the rated voltage of the country you are visiting, you can simply adjust your steam iron to the correct setting and then straighten out clothing that needs a little attention.

If you use your steam iron when there is a higher power input, it may fail to work or worse, cause damage to the iron. Heating appliances like irons without a dual-voltage setting would require a voltage adaptor or convertor.

Safest Iron with Auto Shut-off

None of the mini travel irons above have a safety shut off so it’s essential to remember to switch them off when they are done. They all power on then connected to a power source, so no on/off switches either.

Only the cordless Panasonic has an auto shut-off safety feature, the iron switches off after 10 minutes of inactivity. We generally expect this feature on a high-end product such as this. As the iron only powers up when on its charging plate, if it falls off its base or is left standing on its heel, it will automatically cool down.

Largest Water Capacity

This is only really a factor if you plan to use your iron for more than just a travel ironing. For a shirt or two, the small water capacity of any of the above irons will suffice, but… what if you want more?

The amount of steam you use will ultimately determine how many times you need to refill your water reservoir. This in itself is as easy as popping open a water cap but if you have more ironing to get through, this can be a time-wasting nuisance.

Unbeatable Warranty

Cheap and low-quality irons have a reputation of only lasting a short period of time, but this should not be that case with any of the above travel irons. Should your iron fail, despite proper use and care, the manufacturers should back their products with support, repairs, and replacements.

Variable Heat and Steam Settings

Heat settings need to be adjustable to ensure different fabrics are treated with the correct temperature. The steam output should also be controlled and a steam burst feature is a great addition as it allows you to tackle tougher wrinkles with less effort.

An iron that offers both steam ironing and dry ironing offers more versatility if you plan to use it for home crafting too.

Ergonomic Design

Travel steam irons are conventionally small for easy portability, but this should not make them difficult to use. You should be able to grip the handle comfortably, fill the water tank without difficulty and adjust setting effortlessly.

Need an Iron for Sewing or Quilting?

Small travel sized irons are excellent to include in your sewing tool kit. Sometimes, a large iron can be cumbersome and heavy, especially on repetitive jobs like patchwork. The fact that most travel irons do not have an auto-shutoff, also means your iron is always hot.

The small soleplate also allows detailed precision without the chance of burning your fingers when it comes to flattening seams.

Small Irons for Home Use and Laundry

If you’re a bachelor or bachelorette, then a compact iron may be all you need. Although not what it’s been designed for, a travel iron can be used at home too. Because the soleplate is small, it goes not cover a very large surface area so cloth ironing will take longer compared to a traditional iron.

But if you’re one of those people who only iron the occasional shirt or dress when going out, then it’s a good match for you. It doesn’t take up much space, an 8 foot power cord is long enough to give you good reach, and it heats up really fast. (Sometimes faster than a traditional iron as they have a larger surface to heat.)

Word of warning: Travel irons do not have a safety-off switch, so be sure to switch it off to avoid scorches, burns or worse.

Having a travel iron in your luggage completes the experience of traveling across the planet and looking the part when you finally arrive. After you’ve used it once or twice, and saved a small fortune on the hotel’s ironing service, you won’t leave home without it.

It’s a game-changer for sure. You’ll sooner leave home without your toothbrush before leaving your steamy friend behind. Okay, maybe not everyone gets as excited about ironing as we do, but you’ve got to love the cool convenience of a tiny appliance that helps perfect the ultimate holiday photos.

What other travel essentials are you addicted to? Let us know what’s the first thing you pack when heading on a trip?

Unique venues heat up sauna scene in Sweden and Finland

Deep underground in a disused iron mine and under the bluish glow of a flashlight, a small crowd emerges from a sauna, steam rising off their bodies as they plunge into a crystal clear turquoise lake.

The inside of the "Big Branzino", a luxe floating sauna measuring 30 square metres, in the waters of the Swedish capital, Stockholm

(Copyright: Jonathan NACKSTRAND / AFP)

In Sweden and Finland, some unusual saunas have been built in recent years, offering truly singular experiences. 

Nestled in the snowy forests of Bergslagen in central Sweden, hidden 90 metres (almost 300 feet) below ground in this region known for its mines, lies this very special sauna.

The old iron mine in the town of Borlange closed in 1968 before reopening in 2022, redesigned to welcome visitors looking for a unique -- and sweaty -- experience, Daniel Karlsson, the head of Adventure Mine, told AFP.

"If you look at saunas today, it's more like a luxury experience," he said.

But "down here it's not just a sauna. It's also the experience that you get with nature," he said, clad in a thick red parka to protect from the cold and a helmet with a headlamp.

The space offers visitors a moment of respite from the busy, connected world above.

"Because the sauna is down in the mine, there is nothing that disturbs you from enjoying the sauna."

"You don't have mobile phones, you don't have the sun, you don't have the wind," he said.

- Heat on a high -

Saunas are enjoyed around the world as a method of relaxation, claimed by some to provide health benefits.

They originated in Finland and Estonia, typically built as small wooden cabins where dry heat up to 100 degrees Celsius (212 F) with very low humidity is produced from a stove or hot rocks.

Having a sauna has been a social and hygiene tradition for more than 2,000 years.

Now, sauna enthusiasts who want to expand their horizons can reach new heights in Helsinki.

In the Finnish capital, a giant ferris wheel overlooking the city offers a sauna in one of its specially-built pods.

The sweat session could easily burn a hole in your wallet though, costing between 240 and 350 euros ($255 to $375).

"You can get a pretty good steam and heat here if you really want to," said shift manager Viivi Makelainen.

"Although it's pretty small, you can fit quite a few people in here, four or five. Also the views are more fun when you're in the sauna."

Saunas are an integral part of daily life for most Finns.

The country of 5.5 million inhabitants is home to 3.3 million saunas.

Traditionally considered a sacred space in Finland, 'a church of nature', the Finnish sauna culture was named a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2020.

- 'Intimacy with the surroundings' -

Saunas in the Nordic countries are typically small wooden cabins located near the shore (for a quick dip), deep in the forest (for a quick roll in the snow) or in a home (with a quick shower to refresh).

But one special sauna in the Stockholm archipelago is making waves -- sailing on the waters of the capital city.

The "Big Branzino", a luxury floating sauna measuring 30 square metres (322 square feet), was designed and built in 2022 at the request of a private person.

The structure resembles a square wooden cabin, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass windows and an open-air wheelhouse on the deck. 

Inside, a custom-made wood stove with hot rocks is surrounded by wooden benches and chairs, while outside, a rooftop terrace features a large table and seating area to take in the view.

"A client came to the firm and he wanted a truly extraordinary sauna that he hadn't seen before," architect Johan Strandlund told AFP.

"So we came up with this shape in order to really maximise the intimacy with its surroundings, and we also wanted a truly breathtaking presence on the horizon," he said.

Strandlund said the floating sauna appealed to nature- and sauna-loving Swedes.

"I think it's the way that we really like to enjoy the beautiful nature that we have around here in Stockholm."

And "even when you're not using the sauna, the fire is a great source of heat, for example for cold summer nights."

© Copyright 2024 ETX Studio

Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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Moscow Metro Underground Small-Group Tour - With Reviews & Ratings

Moscow metro underground small-group tour.

• See more images

Tour Information

Key Details

• Mobile Voucher Accepted
• Free Cancellation
• Duration: 3 Hrs
• Language: English
• Departure Time : 10:00 AM
• Departure Details : Karl Marks Monument on Revolution Square, metro stop: Square of Revolution
• Return Details : Metro Smolenskaya
• If you cancel at least 4 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.
• If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.
• Tours booked using discount coupon codes will be non refundable.

Go beneath the streets on this tour of the spectacular, mind-bending Moscow Metro! Be awed by architecture and spot the Propaganda , then hear soviet stories from a local in the know. Finish it all up above ground, looking up to Stalins skyscrapers, and get the inside scoop on whats gone on behind those walls.

Know More about this tour

We begin our Moscow tour beneath the city, exploring the underground palace of the Moscow Metro. From the Square of Revolution station, famous for its huge statues of soviet people (an armed soldier, a farmer with a rooster, a warrior, and more), we’ll move onto some of the most significant stations, where impressive mosaics, columns, and chandeliers will boggle your eyes! Moreover, these stations reveal a big part of soviet reality — the walls depict plenty of Propaganda , with party leaders looking down from images on the walls. Your local guide will share personal stories of his/her family from USSR times, giving you insight into Russia’s complicated past and present. Then we’re coming back up to street level, where we’ll take a break and refuel with some Russian fast food: traditional pancakes, called bliny. And then, stomachs satiated, we are ready to move forward! We’ll take the eco-friendly electric trolleybus, with a route along the Moscow Garden Ring. Used mainly by Russian babushkas(grannies) during the day, the trolleybus hits peak hours in the mornings and evenings, when many locals use it going to and from their days. Our first stop will be the Aviator’s House, one of Stalin’s Seven Sisters, followed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs — and you’ll hear the legends of what has gone on inside the walls. Throughout your Moscow tour, you’ll learn curious facts from soviet history while seeing how Russia exists now, 25 years after the USSR.

Local English-speaking guide

Pancake snack and drink

Additional food and drinks

Tickets for public transport

Souvenirs and items of a personal nature

Tips and gratuities for the guide

Additional Info

Confirmation will be received at time of booking

Dress standard: Please wear comfortable shoes for walking. For your Urban Adventure you will be in a small group of a maximum of 12 people

Traveler Reviews

This tour exceeded our expectations. Nikolai (Nick), our tour guide, was very knowledgeable, thorough, and has a great personality. He didn't take shortcuts and really covered everything that was on the agenda in great detail. We saw beautiful metro stations and learned the history behind them, including many of the murals and designs.

We did the tour with Anna her knowledge and understanding of the History surrounding the metro brought the tour alive. Well done Anna!

This tour was amazing!

Anna was a great tour guide. She gave us heaps of interesting information, was very friendly, and very kindly showed us how to get to our next tour.

Amazing beauty and history.

An excellent tour helped by an absolutely amazing guide. Anna gave a great insight into the history of the metro helped by additional material she had prepared.

great tour and guide - thanks again

great will do it again, Miriam ke was very good as a guide she has lived here all here life so knew every interesting detail.a good day