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The 10 Best Portable Fans of 2024

Battle hot weather with these personal fans you can bring just about anywhere.

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

Travel & Leisure / Kevin Liang

Portable fans are a great way to stay cool on the go, packing a personal breeze to keep temperatures down. After all, heat and humidity can impact our health, mood, and overall experience, especially on scorching days. As a bonus, there’s no need to worry about outlets on the go, or tangled wires, as these devices can be ready to rock with a full charge before you leave home (or the hotel) — but also come in handy during summer power outages, too. They’re a worthy investment though you’ll want to prioritize durability, battery life, weight, and easy maintenance before you shop.

Whether you need a cooling companion for your office desk, while traveling or camping, or literally all the time, there’s a portable fan fit for your needs.

Best Overall

Honeywell turbo on the go personal fan.

This rechargeable fan can also run on AA batteries as a backup.

It only has one speed.

Small but mighty, this Honeywell personal fan is our top pick for its range and dual power sources. Although it only has one speed, the air can reach up to 4 feet so it’s not lacking in force. The fan is incredibly lightweight as well making it a great companion whether you bring it on warm-weather trips or use it right at home instead. It runs pretty quietly, so if it's white noise you’re after for sleeping, this might be the fan for you. We also love that it can be hung, carried, or propped up with the versatile built-in folding stand.

If you don’t have access to a USB port for charging, 4 AA batteries offer a solid backup and, since it uses a DC motor, it saves up to 50 percent in energy usage unlike those with an AC motor. Whether you’re packing this small fan in your luggage, toting it to the gym, or using it as a personal breeze on the deck, this Honeywell Turbo portable fan gets the job done.

The Details: USB cable with rechargeable battery or 4 AA batteries (sold separately) | 4.7 x 5 x 12.5 inches | 0.04 pounds

Best Budget

Comfortness mini portable fan.

It has 4 speeds.

It doesn’t have the option for backup batteries.

We love how powerful the compact, lightweight ComfortneSS Mini Portable Handheld Fan is for its size. It folds up for easy storage in even a purse or small tote bag, and comes with a lanyard for wearing around your wrist or neck, too. The battery life is long-lasting with the ability to keep the breeze going all day long (for up to 15 hours on a full charge). This handheld fan offers fantastic value for the price point so you don’t have to dig too deep into those pockets to stay cool. Plus, the seven blades work to keep the air flowing at four speeds — low, medium, high, and strong — so you can choose your desired strength.

The Details: USB cable with rechargeable battery | 2 x 3.5 x 4.2 inches | 0.37 pounds

Best Wearable

Jisulife neck fan.

It’s bladeless with hands-free cooling.

It takes 3-4 hours to charge.

Get yourself as close to the cooling device as possible with the Jisulife Four Turbo Neck Fan. With a twin-turbine design and 58 widely-shaped air outlets, you can keep cool on the go while choosing from three adjustable speed modes. The rechargeable battery can last up to 7 hours if charged to the max, and this wearable fan is a fantastic travel companion whether spending a hot afternoon at a football game or touring city sites abroad. The bladeless design makes it safer to use with much less of a chance to catch longer hairstyles. And, since it’s lightweight, it’s both comfortable to wear and packable for wherever you need a personal cooling device.

The Details: USB cable with rechargeable lithium battery | 2.3 x 7.8 x 8.7 inches | 0.75 pounds

Best for Plane Travel

Jisulife handheld mini fan.

It can be used as a handheld or desktop fan.

The highest speed can be noisy.

We love the incredibly lightweight Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan for its versatility and three working speeds. One of our favorite features is the detachable fan cover that can be taken off for quick and easy cleaning. The rechargeable battery lasts up to 20 hours at the lowest speed and up to 5 hours at the highest speed. The compact size makes it super portable to throw in a bag without taking up too much room or adding a lot of weight. The bottom includes an anti-slip mat so it can also be used on a flat surface like a tray table or desk, in lieu of holding it. Additionally, a handy anti-trigger switch on the underside of the base will keep it from accidentally turning on when inside a purse or suitcase.

The Details: USB cable with rechargeable battery | 1.8 x 3.4 x 6.2 inches | 0.38 pounds

Best for Camping

Coleman lighted tent fan.

It’s both a fan and a light in one.

The rechargeable power pack is sold separately. 

Tents can get hot when camping in warm weather, but the Coleman CPX 6 Lighted Tent Fan helps keep the interior nice and cool for more comfortable sleeping. The versatile design allows it to stand up on the ground or be hung from the ceiling of your tent using the magnetic base and steel plate on the exterior. Soft foam blades keep things safe, and two speeds provide airflow on high or low. The light can be dimmed to a nightlight for children sleeping inside, but note that it’s a little heavier than other portable models so may be best for car camping when it doesn’t need to be hand carried along with other gear.

The Details: 4 D batteries (sold separately), CPX 6 rechargeable power cartridge, or CPX 6 A/C adapter cartridge | 10 x 5.5 inches | 3.025 pounds

Most Versatile

Jisulife handheld mini fan.

It’s a fan, flashlight, and power bank all in one.

The included lanyard is difficult to attach.

We love that the Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan isn’t just a cooling device, but also a power bank and flashlight. This multi-tool is pocket-sized, folding up into itself so it’s easy to tote around anywhere at all. The long-lasting battery can go for up to 21 hours on the lower speed and 14 hours on the high speed. We also like the automatic-stop safety feature just in case you touch the blades by accident. This handheld fan is perfect for travel as it can fit easily in your palm, is lightweight, and gives you the option of charging your phone or having a light by your side in a pinch.

The Details: USB cable with rechargeable battery | 1.46 x 1.57 x 4.72 inches | 0.27 pounds

Best Bladeless

Conbola 11.8-inch desk fan.

It is stylish, sleek, and runs smoothly.

The battery doesn't last as long as other options.

Not only can bladeless fans be more energy-efficient, they’re also often safer and easier to clean, too. This Conbola Desk Fan is our top pick in this category with up to 9 hours of cool air flow when fully charged and 3 adjustable speeds, depending on your needs. The sleek design and touch button control looks nice, and the non-slip rubber bottom keeps it in place on a range of surfaces. This is a great option to put in a checked bag or bring for car travel due to its larger size, and no blades mean your hair can’t get easily caught if you get too close. It cleans with a damp cloth and comes in a handful of appealing colors as well.

The Details: USB cable with rechargeable battery | 4.5 x 5.75 x 11.8 inches | 1.27 pounds

Best Clip-on

Skygenius mini desk fan.

It has 360 degrees of rotation for the preferred placement of airflow.

The battery life isn’t that long.

Clip on the SkyGenius Battery Operated Mini Desk Fan and enjoy a powerful airflow of up to 14.5 feet. The compact size makes it easy to take along wherever you’re going — on vacation, to the office, for camping, and more. This is a great option for clipping onto a stroller or within your car but any surface that can fit the thick clip would work, too. The portable fan can be fully charged in about 4.5 hours and lasts between 2 and 6 hours, depending on the speed you choose. This durable pick operates quietly on both the low and medium speeds, but a little louder on the high speed if sound’s a top consideration for you.

The Details: USB cable with rechargeable battery | 4 x 6.2 x 8 inches | 0.6 pounds

Best With Mister

Comlife portable handheld misting fan.

It’s still lightweight despite the built-in 25-milliliter water tank.

There’s no lock option for the on/off button so you have to be careful it doesn’t accidentally turn on in your bag.

Sometimes you need a little spritz with your breeze and the Comlife Portable Handheld Misting Fan has come to the rescue. We appreciate that this model comes with a silicone seal to prevent water spillage in your bag when you transport it (especially since there’s no way to lock the power switch). It clocks in at around half a pound, so it’s lightweight and portable, particularly when folded up. The original setting rotates between misting and not misting every 5 minutes but the button is multifunctional and even has the option for a continuous mist, as desired. The small, included bottle makes it easy to refill the water tank on the go, too.

The Details: USB cable with rechargeable battery | 1.46 x 4.13 x 8.86 inches | 0.57 pounds

Best for Indoors

Sharper image personal fan.

Sharper Image

You have the option to use the USB charge or plug it into the wall directly.

We wish it came with a remote so it could be controlled from afar.

We love that the Sharper Image USB Powered Personal Fan has a removable base and offers a rotating function for better airflow and circulation. When running this fan from the battery charge on its lowest speed, it can last a full 24 hours but the plug alternative lets it continue nonstop. The compact size is perfect for the office or home, especially while working at a desk. For a small fan, it’s fairly strong and keeps the area cool, all while being quiet, too.

The Details: USB cable with rechargeable battery or wall plug | 10.5 x 11.2 x 4.3 inches | 2.2 pounds

Tips for Buying a Portable Fan

Consider the size and attachment types.

Your intended use will determine the best compactness and type. If you’re in the market for a portable fan to take on a vacation, it’s best to prioritize small devices that can fold up to pocket-sized or don’t take up too much space in your luggage. Also consider if you want a handheld fan, one with a stand, or something that can easily clip onto items like strollers. Many fans offer a few different carrying styles including attachable lanyards to go around a wrist or neck, too.

Look at performance and noise

Since we use portable fans for a variety of reasons in a range of settings, researching performance and noise level helps ensure you find the best one for your needs. Since most portable fans run on rechargeable batteries, it’s ideal to look for long battery life that will get you through most of the day. (Most portable fans can last up to 15-20 hours when used on the lowest speed.) 

When using a portable fan at work, you’ll most likely want one that operates very quietly, such as a bladeless fan. When traveling, some people prefer the white noise to help them sleep, so a bit more noise is actually desired. 

You’ll also want to evaluate how strong the airflow is and how far it goes; you won’t need something super forceful in a confined space like an airplane but, if you’re traveling somewhere like a theme park in Florida or heading on an African safari, purchasing a portable fan with a mister offers additional cooling in extreme temperatures.

Yes, you can bring a portable fan on an airplane in a carry-on or checked bag as long as the device is battery-operated, and complies with posted size restrictions .

Since portable fans differ in design and materials, it’s best to consult the manual for cleaning instructions for your specific model. If info is not provided, most portable fans can be cleaned well by using a vacuum duster attachment and a damp cloth. It’s best not to use cleaners that contain strong chemicals as that may damage the device. To prolong the lifespan, make sure you don’t overcharge the battery, always use the one it came with, and try to keep it out of the sun, particularly when charging. 

Typically, you can expect a portable fan to last between 2 and 8 years. A portable fan’s lifespan will depend on the type you have, how often you use it, and how well you take care of it. If you leave your fan running all day, everyday, it will likely not last as long as something used sparingly. Rechargeable batteries can lose maximum potential power over time so it’s important to not overcharge them (i.e., leave them plugged in after they’ve reached full capacity). Sun exposure and water like rainfall can have an impact, too, and it’s wise to make sure not to use an indoor fan outdoors, as that can affect its lifespan as well. Additionally, cleaning your fan regularly according to the instructions provided always helps.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

As a travel writer and outdoor enthusiast, T+L contributor Lauren Breedlove used her personal experience with finding the right portable items for her trips to warm weather destinations plus scoured the internet to research and select the best portable fans for a wide array of situations. 

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Best Travel Fans to Keep You Cool in Hot Destinations

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Headed somewhere hot and want a portable method to stay cool? We asked TFG readers to share their picks for the best travel fans so you can keep your temperature down!

Best Travel Fans

Written By: Tae Haahrr

Table Of Contents

Traveling to a warm destination can be tricky if some of your accommodation options don’t have air conditioning and you need to stay cool or you don’t want to overheat during an excursion like a sunset boat ride or a walking tour.

We’ve asked TFG readers to share their picks for the best portable fan for travel so you can stay cool no matter where you are!

Handheld Fans for Sightseeing

JISULIFE 3in1 Pocket Handheld Mini Fan

Mini Portable Fan for Travel

The JISULIFE 3in1 Pocket Handheld Mini Fan  is slim and lightweight, perfect for dropping in your bag and pulling out whenever you need to cool down.

Another Disney travel fan favorite, one TFG reader says, “We go to Disney all the time and I hate the heat! I always bring my little fan that attaches to my phone and I LOVE it!!! I also use it when traveling. Everyone always comments on my fan and wishes they had one. We always bring a battery backup for our phones when we go to the parks so we have no problem with using the phone fan.”

This 3in1 mini handheld fan is USB rechargeable through a regular USB socket, laptop, power bank , or car charger, it also has soft wings that are safe to use near your fingers.

Travelon 3-Speed Folding Fan

Best Travel Fan for Packable Convenience

The Travelon Folding Fan is one of the best personal fan options on the market, per TFG recommendations.

It’s quiet, can hang or sit on a flat surface, and is light and easy to carry. One TFG reader shared, “I’ve used this one for a couple of years and it has worked well.”

It requires four AAA batteries and one reader says that it is “So handy, it has saved me when flying.” But be careful with medium to long length hair.

Tripole Mini Handheld Fan

Best Personal Fan for Hot Days

If you’re looking for a truly small travel fan then the Tripole Mini Handheld Fan  is for you!

It can be thrown into your purse and carted around whenever you need it. One TFG reader shares, “I always use this fan when traveling, love the size.”

This is one of the best small travel fan models around and is loved by travelers who experience the occasional hot flash.

JISULIFE Portable Neck Fan Hands Free Bladeless Fan

Hands Free Portable Neck Fan

This hands free bladeless neck fan by JISULIFE can send the wind without clogging your hands by simply placing it on your neck. Designed without wings, it can be used safely by children and the elderly so you can cool down anywhere. It’s definitely a good choice for the best personal fan.

One wearer shares, “ I love this fan which looks like you have a pair of headphones resting on your neck. It’s powerful but not too noisy and keeps me cool, it runs on charge for quite a while, depending on what speed you have on, but it’s easy enough to charge up. With the cool air going straight to your neck it really makes a difference. I recommend this fan & great price too.”

Compact and lightweight for carrying. It is wearable throughout your daily life without any sense of displacement or awkwardness.

VersionTECH Mini Handheld Fan

Versatile Small Travel Fan

The VersionTECH Mini Fan is a hand-held fan that is ideal for traveling according to TFG readers.

It can be hung, clipped, set on a table, or held, making it perfect for someone who’s moving around. Its battery is rechargeable via a USB port and you can choose from three different speeds!

It comes in five colors and will fit perfectly into your bag. One TFG reader shares, “It is smaller and light, great for travel.”

O2COOL Sport Carabiner Misting Fan

Misting Portable Fan

The Sport Carabiner Misting Fan is perfect to combat those hot days. It combines the cooling power of a breeze with a refreshing mist of water, keeping you comfortable in the heat.

It has a handy carabiner hook so you can keep it on you at all times. And its compact design makes it really easy to cart around and pack.

This mini portable fan is great if you’re hitting up a theme park with the kids or sightseeing on a sweltering day. It’s small but the breeze is sure to make hot days more bearable.

Portable Travel Fans for Your Accommodation

SmartDevil 3 Speed Travel Mini Fan

Readers’ Favorite Travel Fan

According to TFG readers, the SmartDevil 3 Speed Travel Mini Fan  is the best portable fan on the market. It’s small but mighty and makes little sound.

It’s tiny and its 6-ounce weight won’t take up a ton of space in your bag. But it’s powerful with three speeds. One TFG reader shares, “My husband travels with this and loves it. It goes everywhere with him and it’s very small.”

This portable fan is USB compatible mode and has a removable, rechargeable battery. But note that the battery is lithium so you’ll have to carry at least the battery with you in a bag to comply with TSA requirements. Another TFG reader shares, “Brought it to Scotland and worked well as a fan but also as a nightlight on a sleeper train!”

O2COOL Treva 5” Portable Fan

Packable Mini Battery Operated Fan

The Treva 5” Portable Fan is perfect for travel with its 5-inch span and relatively flat body. Making it small and optimal for packing!

It runs off two D batteries, has two speeds, and makes minimal noise. One TFG reader shares, “I got this last summer and took it with me on a camping trip during one of the hottest days in August and it was a lifesaver! It folds so it lays kind of flat and I loved that it had a tilt adjustment.”

It’s under $10 and you can get it in seven adorable colors (check out the fun, bold green). What more are you really looking for in a travel fan?

Efluky Portable Fan

USB Rechargeable Camping Travel Fan

The Efluky Portable Fan is a rechargeable USB fan that works well for travel. It’s a whopping 4 inches, ensuring that it won’t take up a ton of space and it’s super easy to pack and carry!

One TFG reader says, “If you’re headed somewhere hot this summer, this little fan is the bomb! Only $15, USB rechargeable, and it really pushes some air. Was a lifesaver last year in Budapest and Paris!”

It’s powerful but quiet and will save you when air conditioning isn’t around to keep you cool. But don’t take it from us, this TFG reader shares, “The best thing I’ve ever bought just may be this Efluky portable fan from Amazon! A lifesaver in nearly 90-degree heat with no AC, especially on public transportation. It has a USB rechargeable lithium battery, six-hour battery life and pushes quite a bit of air for such a small fan.”

Beskar Clip on Mini Desk Fan

Battery Operated Mini Travel Fan with Clip

The  Beskar Battery Operated Clip on Mini Desk Fan with 3 speed airflow is a fan that TFG readers love. The maximum working decibel is just 40db, it will not disturb you at all when you are working or sleeping.

This model is particularly helpful if you’re planning on taking a stroller-aged child for a summer tour around Disneyland and need something to clip to the stroller. It’s sturdy, and durable, and the fan gaps are tiny so there’ll be no fingers getting anywhere near the blades.

One TFG reader says, “I like that I can clip it on something or stand it on a surface. In my experience, the rechargeable battery doesn’t last all night so I almost always plug it into my USB charger.”

Vornado Flippi V6 Personal Air Circulator Fan

Portable Low-Noise Fan

The Vornado Flippi is one of the best personal fan choices if you’re looking to circulate air around you while you sleep.

While it’s a little bit bigger than some of the other fan choices at 1.7 lbs and 6.2 inches tall, it’s still small and travel-friendly. It emits a light breeze and makes limited noise, so if you’re sensitive to noise and want something non-disruptive to push a little air on you, this is your fan!

This is a stylish personal fan, coming in four fancy colors (check out the cute teal!) with an adjustable fan head.  One TFG reader declares it’s the “perfect travel fan.”

Lasko 2002W Personal Fan

Mini Household Fan

The Lasko 2002W Personal Fan is the personal equivalent of your average household fan.

You can move the fan head up and down or to either side to ensure it’s focused on where you want the air to go. It’s fairly quiet, but the sound does increase as you go up in the settings. And it’s much more powerful than it looks!

While it does require assembly, it doesn’t need any tools to put it together. Overall, TFG readers “really like this fan.”

Gaiatop USB Desk Fan

Small Personal Desk Fan

The Gaiatop USB Desk  Fan  is a small travel fan that TFG readers recommend packing on your next adventure.

It has two settings and is adjustable so you’re getting the right amount of air in the direction you want. It’s also said to be really quiet. One TFG reader shares, “I adore this little fan.”

It’s versatile because you can use a USB to operate it. Another TFG reader shares, “I also have this fan and LOVE it! Can’t travel without it.” 

Best Travel Fans Comparison Chart

Universal Travel Plug Charger

Universal Travel Adapter with Three USB Ports and One Type C

A universal travel adapter is an absolute must for any traveler. It allows you to charge three devices at once so you can charge your laptop, phone, and portable charger all at the same time!

A solid product by  Travel Fashion Girl , we’ve specifically designed it with globetrotters in mind, making it possibly  the   best  power bank for travel. You can also use it in over 150+ countries. Plus, it’s red so you won’t leave it behind on a white hotel room wall.

If you choose a fan with a plug or USB, remember to bring the above international travel adapter so you can charge up to three of your electronics at the same time!

Watch the  video  above or read  this post  to learn about the differences between travel adapters, converters, and voltage!

What do you think are the best travel fans? Share your thoughts below!

Want more travel gadget articles? Read these: 

• What is the Best Travel Adapter?
• Stop Tangled Electronic Cables With These Travel Cord Organizer Options
• The Ultimate Backpack Organizer: Pack and Unpack in Seconds
• Best Travel Kettle Will Help You Start Your Day Right

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Just used the JISULIFE 3 in 1 fan during a trip to Jamaica in August. Love that it folds up small enough to fit in a purse while traveling / sightseeing (even going to dinner as most of the restaurants were open air). It also folds so you can set it on a table. Very useful and helpful!

I’m off to Southeast Asia in November, and I thank you for suggesting a fan! Brilliant!

I love using travel fans when I’m traveling to hot destinations! They’re so helpful in keeping me cool and comfortable.

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The Best Portable Fans of 2024

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

Why trust Reviewed?

Reviewed's mission is to help you buy the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. Our team of product experts thoroughly vet every product we recommend to help you cut through the clutter and find what you need.

Coleman OneSource Multi-Speed Fan & Rechargeable Battery

Good battery life

Bottom hanging hook included

Water-splash resistant

Doesn’t have a lot of power

RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Clamp Fan

Easy to use

2 speed settings

Battery and charger not included

AMACOOL Battery Operated Stroller Fan

Operates quietly

3 speed settings

Not the most durable

Weak battery life

JISULIFE Handheld Mini Fan

Super compact

Versatile folding feature

Difficult to open

DGLK Portable Neck Fan

Lightweight and flexible

Hand-free use

Slightly noisy

Updated October 3, 2023

Whether it is summer or you are traveling to a warm climate, having a portable fan handy is great to help you stay cool. These small and powerful fans are great to bring on backpacking trips, long bus rides, or anywhere else you’d like to go. What’s cool about portable fans (no pun intended) is that they come in various styles: some are made to latch onto literally anything, while others are made to be held in your hand or stand on a flat surface.

The recommendations in this guide are based on thorough product and market research by our team of expert product reviewers. The picks are based on examining user reviews, product specifications, and, in some limited cases, our experience with the specific products named.

For a fan that consistently pushes the air around, the outdoor-friendly Coleman OneSource Multi-Speed Fan is a good pick. Many use it for outdoor use, such as sports games and camping. This fan can easily fold down to a compact size for travel and can even withstand splashing water, meaning you can bring it backpacking in the summer to have for humid days. You can choose the direction of the wind by rotating the head and setting the fan speed either low or high.

Some reviewers say that this fan is not as powerful as they’d prefer, but that the battery life is quite long. In addition, this portable fan is pretty stable, can charge your devices and be fully charged by various power sources, and even includes an LED flashlight and battery level signal.

This simple and functional fan is a great budget-friendly fan or for those who just want something that does the job and is easy to use. This one has two speed settings and has a head that can be adjusted in various directions for the perfectly angled air flow. On a low setting, this fan will run for 40 hours straight. Plus, it even comes with an operating manual. Easily clamp it onto anything up to 1.5-inches thick, such as in your work truck, or place it on the desk in your workshop.

The only downside is that this fan doesn't come with a battery or charger, but its price really can’t be beat.

This baby-friendly fan comes with a 7-inch sturdy tripod clamp that can latch onto car seats, strollers, cribs, and other furniture, making it one of the most versatile portable fans in this review. It can also be used for adults, such as on their bed or bag during travel. This fan can rotate in every direction, includes three LED brightness levels for customizable light, and has three speed settings.

It is fairly sturdy, but the product and battery won’t last forever, according to reviewers.

The JISULIFE Handheld Mini Fan is a perfect little fan to keep in your pocket, since it is mini in size and can easily be held in your hand for a quick cool off. Or, it even folds into a 90-degree shape to place it on your desk or in your tent. This fan comes with a flashlight and backup power bank.You can choose between two speed settings and can easily recharge it with a USB power source.

It is a simple, yet effective portable fan that can be difficult to open, according to reviewers, but it's worth it once you do.

This is the best portable neck fan we found because it is hands-free and will keep your head cool. This wearable fan is made of a flexible and lightweight material that makes it easy to adjust for your comfort. It also has three speed settings and a fairly long battery life.

According to reviewers, this fan does what it is supposed to, but its noise level is not as low as the brand claims. If you’re a fan of white noise though, then maybe that is a plus for you. Overall, this portable fan is said to be pretty decent for the price.

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

Meet the tester

Lily Hartman

Staff Writer, Search

Lily Hartman is a staff writer who also enjoys writing magazine articles about health and outdoor recreation. In her free time, she likes to hike, camp, run, and lift weights.

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Last chance: 6 best portable fans on sale for Amazon Prime Day

This year witnessed record-high temperatures worldwide, with the mercury repeatedly hitting over 100 degrees Fahrenheit from Arizona to Nevada, Texas and across the ocean, stretching into Athens, Greece and beyond.

With the final day of Amazon's Fall Prime Day upon us, now is a great time to get a good deal on a hi-tech portable fan. Trust us, you'll be thankful by the time summer comes back around.

Here are some of the TPG team favorites and best-reviewed portable fans on Amazon that are currently on sale.

Best for extra features: Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan — $14.39 (normally $24.99)

Coming in strong with an Amazon rating of 4.6, this portable fan from Jisulife is a small but mighty device that offers great value for the money.

Ergonomically designed, this device easily folds small to pack in a bag. It's also rechargeable, offering between 14 and 21 hours of use depending on which of its two settings you use. It comes with two great additional features: The fan houses a small flashlight and also functions as a power bank that can charge your devices on the go.

Still need convincing? TPG travel reporter Tarah Chieffi who makes frequent trips to the often-hot Orlando theme parks, never travels without it.

"It folds up small and holds a charge for longer than any other fan I've tried," she said. "I also love that I can use it to charge my phone when I am on the go."

Buy: Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan , $14.39 (normally $24.99)

Best for hotel rooms: coldSky Portable Handheld Fan — $12.74 (normally $14.99)

This sturdy and powerful fan might be slightly larger than other portable fans (though certainly small enough to pack into a tote bag), but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Sometimes, you want something with a little more oomph for when you accidentally book yourself into a hotel room that has subpar (or not) air conditioning .

The coldSky device is essentially a compact desk fan that packs a punch but is still small enough not to clutter up your hotel room's bedside table. It has five speeds and a seven-blade design that will make your room breezy in no time. It also has a handy digital display showing the remaining battery life so you know when to recharge the device.

Buy: coldSky Portable Handheld Fan , $12.74 (normally $14.99)

Best for serious wind power: Jisulife Handheld Fan — $12.99 (normally $22.99)

This is a stylishly designed hand-held fan that can also easily stand up on a desk.

The Jisulife Handheld Fan offers up to 16 hours of battery power and is easily charged via USB. It has fewer speed settings than some other fans on this list, but its real selling point is its strength. At full speed, it can reach up to 4,400 revolutions per minute; this equates to the feel of a strong wind, making it great for cutting through the harshest of heat.

Buy: Jisulife Handheld Fan , $12.99 (normally $22.99)

Best hands-free fan: Penkou Portable Neck Fan — $25.99 (normally $39.99)

Looking for something you don't have to carry around in your hands all day but are also worried that a wearable fan sounds like a quirky steampunk contraption? This neck fan by Penkou is a safe option.

When in use, the device looks similar to a pair of headphones dangling around your neck. Its bladeless fan design produces less than 20 decibels of sound (about the same level as leaves gently rustling), so it also comes free of noise distraction. And with a weight of just 8.8 ounces, you should be safe from neck strain.

In terms of battery power, you should get between three and 16 hours, depending on which setting you prefer. It's perfect for hikes, at the theme park or to wear during a long, sweaty train or bus journey.

Buy: Penkou Portable Neck Fan , $25.99 (normally $39.99)

TPG favorite: VersionTech Mini Handheld Fan — $12.99 (normally $27.99)

Finally, if you're looking for something cheap but reliable enough to shower you with a pleasant breeze, we recommend VersionTech's mini-handled fan. It's a favorite of TPG director of travel content Summer Hull.

This device can function like both a hand-held fan and a small desk fan. It also easily clips to bags or other thin surfaces.

The fan has three adjustable speeds and will work for up to three hours on the highest setting or eight hours on the lowest. It's currently priced at $12.99, down from its usual price tag of $27.99 as of this publication date. Get it while you can.

Buy: VersionTech Mini Handheld Fan , $12.99 (normally $27.99)

Related reading:

• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without
• 9 tech devices I always pack with me — and 1 that's changing my routine at home
• 7 essential baby gear items that make travel easier
• 10 must-have travel accessories for less than $15

The 5 Best Travel Fans That Are Small and Portable

Having a small and portable travel fan that’s powerful enough to keep you cool is a piece of travel gear everyone should have while traveling to hot travel destinations.

The dog days of summer are upon us, and if you’re anything like me, you’re already sick of the heat. If you’re looking for a way to beat the heat without breaking the bank, consider investing in a travel fan.

Travel fans are compact, lightweight, and easy to pack, making them the perfect accessory for your next beach vacation or road trip. Plus, they’re relatively inexpensive, so you won’t have to spend a fortune to stay cool this summer. Here are five of the best travel fans on the market.

1. Treva 5-Inch Travel Fan

O2COOL’s Treva 5-Inch Travel Fan is one of the most popular travel fans on Amazon and for good reason. This little fan is powerful enough to keep you cool in even the stuffiest hotel room, but it’s small enough to fit in your carry-on bag. It also runs on two D batteries so you can use it almost anywhere.

2. SkyGenius Clip-On Travel Fan

The SkyGenius Clip-On Travel Fan is another great option for anyone looking for a compact fan. This fan runs on batteries, so you don’t have to worry about finding an outlet to plug it in. It also comes with a built-in clip, so you can attach it to your beach chair or cruise ship bed without taking up too much space.

3. OPOLAR Clip On Travel Fan

The OPOLAR Clip-On Travel Fan is perfect for anyone who wants to stay cool on hot summer days. This fan attaches easily to to endless items and can even stand on its own. It comes with three different speed settings so you can adjust the airflow as needed. Plus, it charges via a USB cord, so it’s easy to keep it charged on long days out in the sun.

4. Zuvas Travel Fan

The Zuvas Travel Fan is a great choice for anyone who wants a more powerful fan. This fan is small but mighty, and it’s ideal for use in larger spaces like hotel rooms and cruise cabins. It also comes with three different speed settings and an adjustable tilting head, so you can direct the airflow exactly where you need it most.

5. JISULIFE Handheld 3-in-1 Travel Fan

The JISULIFE Handheld 3-in-1 Travel Fan is our top pick for anyone looking for a handheld fan. This fan is specifically designed for portability, making it ideal for use anywhere you go. It also has three different speed settings and an adjustable head, so you can customize the airflow to suit your needs. Plus, it has a built-in battery to charge your phone on the go.

No matter where your summer travels take you, make sure to pack one of these portable fans along for the ride! A small investment now will pay off big time when you’re trying to stay cool in even the hottest conditions. Do you have a favorite travel fan that we didn’t mention? Let us know in the comments below!

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The best portable fans of 2024

You can stay cool without sacrificing outdoor fun with the best portable fans.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

The cooling breeze of a portable fan is a cheap and easy way to combat scorching temperatures. With the press of a button, you get an instant breeze—and sometimes a cooling mist—to keep the heat at bay. Best of all, they don’t rely on outlet power and are (mostly) small enough to transport in a purse, pocket, or backpack. Some are even made to attach to desks and strollers. The next time you leave the comfort of your AC, the best portable fans will ensure you stay cool.

• Best overall : Milwaukee M18 Jobsite Fan
• Best for neck: Jisulife Bladeless Neck Cooler
• Best for large spaces: Big Ass Sidekick Portable Fan
• Best for stroller : Amacool Stroller Fan
• Best handheld : HandFan Misting Fan
• Best for camping : Comlife 10000mAh Rechargeable Camping Fan
• Best for desk : Honeywell Turbo on the Go
• Best budget : Comlife Portable Neck Fan

How we chose the best portable fans

The temperature and humidity can get unbearable where I live, which makes doing anything outdoors uncomfortable. That’s why I’ve made it my mission to find the best portable fans to stay cool wherever I am.

Outside of my pursuit to keep cool, I write about gadgets and gear and have been doing so for over 10 years. My byline has appeared on sites like XDA Developers , Gear Patrol , and CNN Underscored . To find the best portable fans, I researched and tested everything I could get my hands on. I also looked at editorial reviews and customer feedback to give me an idea of what people value most in a portable fan.

PopSci has been writing about the best fans for years, so I also drew on previous knowledge and recommendations from colleagues.

The best portable fans: Reviews & Recommendations

To find the best portable fan, consider when and where you’ll be using it. Are you looking for something small to toss in your beach bag? Do you need something that stands on its own to cool you down at your desk? Or are you looking for a stroller fan that can cool your little one? Answering these questions will help you find the fan that fits your needs. We picked these fans for some of the most common scenarios where you need a light cooling breeze on the go.

Best overall: Milwaukee M18 Jobsite Fan

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut : Milwaukee’s M18 Jobsite Fan provides several hours of operation and a 120-degree adjustable head.

• Height : 10.29 inches
• Weight : 5.2 pounds
• Battery-powered : Rechargeable
• 120-degree adjustable head
• Long-lasting battery
• 18mph max air velocity

Milwaukee is well known for making some of the best tools available, so it’s no surprise it also makes a great portable fan. Made of durable plastic and capable of circulating air over 40 feet, the cordless fan features a rechargeable battery that provides up to 17 hours of runtime on the lowest setting. If you’re on a job site or a camping trip, a single charge can keep you cool all day long.

In addition to a long-lasting battery, Milwaukee’s M18 features a 120-degree adjustable head with nine stopping positions, so you can angle it almost any way you like. It also offers three-speed settings, with the highest options capable of 18mph max velocity. And if the M18’s battery does run out, the fan comes with an AC adapter to keep the breeze flowing.

Want to up the refreshment even more? If you’re looking for an industrial misting fan that’s easily transportable, try out the RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Bucket Top Misting Fan Kit , which sits on top of a bucket (sold separately) filled with water—and ice, if you like—and provides hours of revitalizing fog. Combine either choice with a portable solar generator , and you’ve got reliable refreshment for days.

Jen McCaffery

Why it made the cut: This well-designed portable neck fan is lightweight and has three speeds to keep you cool on the go. 

• Height : 7.8 inches
• Weight : 9.1 ounces
• Lightweight
• Lasts for up to 16 hours
• Has three speeds
• Available in five  colors
• Wayward strands of hair may get caught

When it’s ridiculously hot outside, but you need to walk to the grocery store or want to go for a hike, a neck fan can provide welcome relief. The highly rated Jisulife Bladeless Neck Cooler is super easy to get started right from the box. Just connect the included USB-C cord and charge the included lithium-ion battery for up to 16 hours of use. 

This bladeless fan is lightweight and felt good around my neck. It’s designed with three speeds, and the steady air came both out and upward, providing a steady breeze to the underside of my face without blowing my hair all over the place. This portable fan is also reasonably quiet, though louder at Level 3, the highest speed.

It’s also worth noting that I originally had my hair up when I was testing the fan, and when I let it down, it did get a little caught in the fan. And while this Jisulife model is great for a walk or hike on a hot day, it’s not particularly suited for running if you bounce up and down a lot as you stride. But this fan is an affordable option to save energy and stay cool wherever you go. Plus, it comes in five colors (dark green, dark blue, gray, green, and yellow), making it almost as appealing a personalized accessory as a cool set of headphones . — Jen McCaffery

Why it made the cut: The 48-inch-wide Sidekick is powerful enough to cool large spaces, inside and out. 

• Height : 58 inches 
• Weight : 180 pounds
• Battery-powered : No
• Sleek design
• Arrives assembled
• Works indoors and outside

Whether working on a construction site or in a barn, cooling a big space can be challenging, so you need a powerful fan. The Big Ass Sidekick Portable Fan is up for the job. This barrel fan is 48 inches wide, providing plenty of airflow from its six airfoils. The Sidekick comes fully assembled, and its swivel casters make it portable and lockable. With its IPX5 waterproof rating, you can roll this fan indoors or outside. And if you’re unhappy, there’s a warranty of up to three years. — Jen McCaffery

Why it made the cut : The Amacool Stroller Fan is easy to use and features flexible tripod legs that can attach to almost anything, particularly strollers.

• Height : 12 inches
• Weight : 0.43 pounds
• Flexible tripod legs
• Also includes adjustable LED light
• 360-degree adjustable head
• Small battery means poor battery life

This stroller fan comes in three cute colors with a protective fan cover and flexible tripod legs that are easy for you to attach but hard for your baby to remove. It can easily adhere to the sides, tray, or hood of your stroller, as well as your little one’s car seat, playpen, or baby gym. The fan head is adjustable vertically and horizontally with 360 degrees of rotation. It even has three fan speeds so that you can customize the breeze your baby needs. The fan lasts between 2.5 and 10 hours, depending on wind speed, and can be easily recharged via USB. While this fan is safe for babies and toddlers, always make sure to have an adult on the lookout whenever it’s switched on.

Best handheld: HandFan Misting Fan

Why it made the cut : The HandFan Misting Fan gives you a breeze and a cool spritz of water for extra relief in your personal paradise.

• Height : 8.9 inches
• Weight : 0.41 pounds
• Misting capabilities
• Three speed options
• Foldable design
• One button design can be confusing

This rechargeable handheld misting fan from HandFan is one of the best ways to stay refreshed during a hot summer day. It can easily fit in a purse or backpack pocket, with a handle that can be adjusted from 0-180 degrees for handheld or standalone use. Choose from three different fan speeds to cool you down, no matter the weather. You can even trigger night mode, which includes a delightful array of colored lights. 

Best of all, the HandFan comes with a built-in mister and 17-millimeter water reservoir, which can produce a steady stream of gentle mist for 10 minutes at a time. All of these functions can be controlled with just one button for ultimate ease. This mini-fan weighs just 6.6 ounces and measures 4.1 by 8.9 inches, the perfect size to keep handy in your car, back pocket, or travel bag. Need something more industrial-strength to cool down a group? Check out our guide to the best outdoor misting fans .

Best for camping: Comlife 10000mAh Rechargeable Camping Fan

Why it made the cut : With a battery that can last up to 28 hours and a lantern with three brightness levels, the Comlife Rechargeable Camping Fan is the perfect companion for the Great Outdoors.

• Height : 8 inches
• Weight : 1 pound
• Featured 36 LED lights
• Adjusts 360 degrees
• Durable design
• Battery can last up to 28 hours
• No place to store remote

This Comlife camping fan is an excellent choice for anyone who likes to spend time outdoors. It features three fan speeds and a battery that can last up to 28 hours on slower speeds and a full seven hours at maximum speed. The lantern also has three brightness levels and three timer settings. You can even plug in your mobile phone or computer and use the fan’s USB-C port to charge your device. The unit itself can be charged via USB cable, power bank , car charger, laptop, and more . It comes with a flexible tripod that lets you easily attach it to a tent, bunkbed, golf cart, or even a growing system. At just 1 pound, this powerful fan will be easy to transport for on-the-go use.

Best for desk: Honeywell Turbo on the Go   

Why it made the cut : The Honeywell Turbo is lightweight, provides a powerful breeze, and includes a convenient handle for carrying.

• Height : 5 inches (12 inches with handle flipped open)
• Weight : 0.49 pounds
• Battery-powered : AA x 4
• Handle doubles as a stand
• Battery-powered and USB-powered
• Needs four AA batteries

While the Turbo On the Go fan won’t replace traditional AC, it’s a fantastic way to stay cool during a hectic workday and a great small personal fan for a desk. It measures roughly 5 x 12 inches and weighs under 1 ounce, so you don’t need to worry about it taking up too much space or dragging you down if you’re on the move. This fan produces a breeze you can feel from up to three feet away with several set-up options, including standalone, hanging, or carrying. It can be powered with four AA batteries for outdoor use or via a USB-A cable, which can plug directly into your work computer.

Best budget: Comlife Portable Neck Fan   

Why it made the cut : Comlife’s Portable Neck Fan can be worn like a necklace and also used on a desk.

• Height : N/A
• Also USB-powered
• Can be worn like a necklace
• Two fans offer double the breeze
• Can get in the way while worn

You shouldn’t have to pause all your favorite pastimes to dab sweat away or take a break in the shade. A wearable fan, like this one from Comlife, is a magnificent way to keep moving even when the heat rises. This double-headed small portable fan hangs comfortably on the neck and is 360-degree adjustable so you can stay cool without anything getting in your way. It features six fan speeds, battery life between two and nine hours depending on use, and an included USB cable for simple charging. This mini portable fan weighs just 0.4 pounds, so you won’t be under any strain while wearing it, even during exercise. From cooking to hiking, cycling to traveling, you’ll have no trouble keeping comfortable, even during a vigorous workout.

What to consider when buying the best portable fans

We look for the same things in a portable fan as in any other cooling device. Aside from strong airflow, a portable fan shouldn’t produce much noise. On the other hand, it should be durable enough to throw in a bag and easy to clean. Here’s everything to look out for in your search.

Size and weight

Portability is an essential part of a good personal handheld fan. When researching our picks, we paid special attention to things like size and weight. Portable fans come in all shapes and sizes, and different options work better for different situations. Before making your pick, you should take a moment to figure out how and where you plan to use your fan, whether you’re traveling, sitting at your desk, or working on an engine in your garage.

Remember that the bigger the fan, the stronger the airflow. A handheld pocket fan will only generate enough wind to cool down one person. There are also larger portable fans big enough to cool down a small space, like a tent. 

Portable fans use a couple of different battery types. Usually, they’ll either use built-in rechargeable batteries or require disposable cells, like AAs. Some models with built-in rechargeable batteries can also plug directly into the wall, so you can recharge the battery and use the fan simultaneously. Often, the whole point of a portable fan is to get away from outlets, but it’s still a nice perk.

A traditional battery is the most straightforward option. Just install a few AA batteries and feel the temperature drop. While single-use batteries are convenient, we generally avoid them whenever possible to minimize generating e-waste . (Of course, you always pop in some rechargeable batteries to sidestep the issue.)

A built-in rechargeable battery means you don’t need to buy batteries from the store. However, there’s always the risk of forgetting to recharge a rechargeable battery each night, which could render a portable fan useless.

No fan is competently silent, but nobody wants to use one that sounds like a buzzing insect. No matter what size portable fan you choose, you don’t want the whirring to be a distraction, especially if you’re using it as a travel fan. We focused on finding options with minimal noise, even on their highest setting. A quiet fan is particularly important if you plan to have it pointed at you from close range.

Keeping your fan clean is not only the sanitary thing to do, but it ensures everything works effectively and efficiently. A good fan should be relatively easy to disassemble (and reassemble) so that you can access the fan blades and remove dust and hair collected on moving parts.

For outdoor summer days, you can’t go wrong with a mini fan that can give you a cooling spritz. If you don’t want to miss out on enjoying beach trips, summer barbecues, or picnics, reach for a small, handheld fan you can easily slip into your bag or pocket—major bonus points for a model that has a small reservoir for water. With the push of a button, you’ll feel a steady spray that refreshes and cools.

There are also portable options you can wear around your neck. These portable fans sit comfortably around your neck so you can keep your hands on the steering wheel, tongs, walking stick, oar, etc. These battery-powered fans are a great way to get a breeze without taking a break from your favorite activities.

Finally, some options include flexible tripods that can attach to strollers and car seats, ensuring your little one stays cool on a warm day. Kids love to grasp and grab at just about everything, so make sure your stroller fan is sturdily attached yet adjustable, so you can angle airflow without worrying your baby will get a hold of the mini fan.

Q: How much does a portable fan cost?

Depending on its features and functions, a portable fan starts at $20 and goes into the hundreds. The most expensive portable fan on our list is around $120.

Q: Is there a fan that blows cold air?

Some fans blow colder air, but keep in mind that they can be a bit pricier than the portable models listed above. Unlike energy-efficient air conditioners that use freon , or regular fans that circulate the ambient air, cold-air fans need to use more advanced technology to create highly concentrated, controlled pressure and super-high speeds that actively cycle and slightly chill the air. Top-notch models like the Dyson Pure Hot Cool can do more to chill the air around you. If you want actively cooled air and live in the right climate, you might be interested in trying an evaporative cooler that cycles recently evaporated, chilled water from a reservoir to cool a room.

Q: What is the quietest portable fan for the bedroom?

There are several options out there for super-quiet fans you’re sure to sleep through, and many others include a sleep or night mode to quell sound or lights further. Honeywell, Vornado, and Lasko make small portable fans that are practically noiseless. It will be a bit more challenging to find a compact, pocket-portable fan that can provide the same options when it comes to quiet modes, but that shouldn’t be as much of an issue when you’re using them on the road.   

Q: How long do portable fan batteries last?

Battery life depends on a few factors, like fan size and what setting is used. If you use lower power, most portable fans will last for several hours. Crank it up to the highest setting, and the battery may only last a couple of hours.

Q: What type of portable fan is best for the beach?

Any fan designed for outdoor use would work well at the beach, as long as you’re not taking it into the water or burying it in sand. No portable fan will completely resist the elements, so it pays to be cautious when using electronics outside.

Final thoughts on the best portable fans

While the summer heat can undoubtedly feel oppressive at times, there’s no reason why you can’t grab one of the best portable fans out there to make things more bearable, especially if you know which factors to prioritize. If you want to stay especially active, go for a mini wearable or personal handheld model. If you need some extra chill indoors, a compact desk fan or lightweight tower fan will do the trick. And for special situations, look for a fan that proudly boasts its strengths, like stroller or camping fans. Beating the heat won’t be so hard with a great portable fan in hand.

Why trust us

Popular Science  started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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5 Best Portable Fans for Traveling [2024]: Stay cool on the road!

Loud hostels disrupting your sleep? Long lines in the heat melting your glow? Read on for the best portable and handheld fans to keep you cool on your travels.

For many people, traveling with a fan is a must. If you are used to sleeping with white noise, the hum of a fan can do the trick to help you get better sleep. It can also be the key to helping drown out that one person who always ends up snoring in your hostel. For others,  combating the summer heat of  Europe  or the humidity of  Asia , a mini or handheld fan can be a lifesaver. But if you like to travel light, it can be hard to find just the right portable fan that will tuck away in your luggage or carryon. 

In this review, we'll take a look at several different styles of mini fans, handheld fans, and portable fans that travelers love and best of all, take up little space in your luggage.

What to Look for in a portable travel fan

There are many different styles of travel fans depending on the need you are trying to meet. Some want a fan that can fold up and fit in a purse, while others want one that can clip onto a bed or stand on a desk. Check out the different features to think about below.

Size: Hand Held, Mini, or Table Fan?

Deciding when you want to use it is the first step in figuring out the best fan for you. There are some that you hold in your hand to cool you off while waiting in that hot never, ending line to get into that popular museum. Others are better for those muggy nights clipped onto your hostel bunk to drown out the partiers and to blow a light breeze on your face. Do you want to carry it everywhere in your purse or have it in your  backpack ? These are some things to consider in your search.

Power Source

One of the tricky parts of traveling is navigating different outlet types. 

• USB is a pretty reliable source that you find in a lot of newer hotels, computers, and  travel adaptors , and many portable fans use USB  as a way to charge them. 
• Standard plug-in fans are always an option. Plug them into the wall, and they go forever or use your adaptor to plug it in and breeze away.
• Chargeable! This is nice when you are on the go and are nowhere near a plug. Charge it and use it until you can get back to a power source. Best for handheld fans used when you are running around and trying not to melt.

Best Portable Fans for Travel

Now that you've decided if you need to add a travel fan to your list of  must-have travel gadgets , check out this guide on top reviewed portable and handheld fans that people are using this year.

JSUIS Mini 3 in 1 Handheld Fan

This fan packs a lot of features into its super small size.  

• Pocket Size Fan - Keep in your bag to use when you are out and about
• Backup Charger - Phone battery getting low? Use the backup battery charger to give you a quick boost.
• Flashlight - Built-in flashlight for dark streets 
• Long Battery Life - Advertised for 21 hours of battery life in one charge in fan mode
• Convertible into 3 different Stages -Can be used as a Handheld fan or folded to prop on a desk.
• USB Rechargeable - It is USB rechargeable through any regular USB port

This fan is highly rated and affordable at under $20 USD. Some users have said that the phone battery charger did not work very well and that sometimes it is a bit hard to switch between the different foldable stages, but otherwise, reviewers loved the flashlight, powerful fan, and super compact size.

Our Rating: 4.5/5

• Small and Portable
• Long Battery life
• USB Chargeable
• Added Flashlight Function
• Three different folding positions
• Phone charger not consistent
• Sometimes hard to open into the different stages.
• Power button can be hard to push

Portable Rechargeable Neck Fan

Looking for something to keep you cool and keep your hands free? You might want to check out this rechargeable neck fan by Delmac.

This fan is unique in that you just place it around your neck and a quiet, cool breeze for your neck and face will keep you refreshed. It's bladeless, so your hair won't get caught in the fan, and the charge lasts at least 6 hours. With three cooling speeds and a flexible design, this portable fan is great for those who want to stay cool on the go but want to also stay hands-free.   Some people have commented that the circulation isn't strong at the back, and long hair and earrings can get in the way of the airflow. It's got a pretty specific use, but if long lines in the heat impact your comfort, this might be a fan to consider.

Our Rating: 3.5/5

• Unique Design
• Strong Speed, Quiet
• Conversation Starter!
• More Expensive at over $30 USD
• May get in the way of Long Hair and Earrings
• Doesn't circulate air all the way around
• Not as many uses as some portable fans

GUSGU Flexible and Portable Fan

This interesting fan by GUSGU is really versatile to be used for many different things. The stand is bendable and can be used in a few different ways. You can prop it on a desk, hold it in your hand when on the go, or wrap the flexible arms around a surface like a metal bed frame, a stroller, or a lamp for really flexible use. Some users have found that the flexible arms don't stay tight and the fan will move out of place, and others would like the fan strength to be a bit stronger. But if you want an option for a fan that will work almost anywhere, this is a great fan to look into.

Our Rating: 4/5

• Versatile to wrap around, handheld or stand on its own
• USB with long charge
• Many colors
• Strong speed
• Blades can pinch small fingers
• Can move around after being attached
• Not super strong

Mini Handheld USB Chargeable Fan by Aluan

This fan knows exactly who it is. If you want a small handheld fan smaller than your phone, with a powerful speed that you can tuck away in your pocket, this may be the fan for you. It comes in 5 fun colors and is rechargeable with a USB cord. Some users have found that the blades are a bit fragile if dropped, and a few had issues with the fan holding a charge after a while, so these are things to consider. However, for a small, inexpensive fan that you can take on the go when you have minimal space, this mini fan is a great choice.

Our Rating: 4.3/5

• Inexpensive, under $15 USD
• Battery Powered, rechargeable
• Very small, fits in pocket
• Can't stand on its own
• Battery can die fairly quickly
• Blades can be fragile and break easily

Clip on Portable Fan for Travel

If a portable fan for use in one location such as sleeping or at a desk, is what you are looking for, here is a great option to consider. This fan has a clip-on feature that does need to be plugged into a USB port, so it is not chargeable and is something to consider if you want to use it away from a power supply. At 6 inches, it's bigger than a handheld fan but still very packable for a carryon. People like the clip-on feature and the dual speeds, but some have indicated that it's a bit louder and that they wish the cord was a bit longer. 

Our Rating: 3.2 /5

• Many different colors
• Clip on good for Hostels
• Strong speed with swivel for more flexibility
• Not as portable
• Not as quiet as some portable fans
• Cord is short

Should You Take a Portable Fan When You Travel?

Overall, it depends on where you are traveling and what your needs are. If you run hot and hate to be sticky or sweaty, then it might be a good idea to grab one of these handheld mini fans just in case. If you are a digital nomad or hostel sleeper and you want a fan to keep cool or dull noise, some of the options above are great to consider. 

Travel with Pilot

Now that you are set to keep cool on your trip, it's time to make sure you have your travel itinerary organized with Pilot.

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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The 10 Best Travel Fans for Your Adventures

Embarking on a journey is among life's most delightful experiences, and the anticipation of packing for a vacation or an extended adventure adds to the excitement. Amidst the thrill, remember to include your reliable travel fan, a small device that could become your saving grace on scorching days in tropical destinations! The abundance of choices might make selecting the perfect style seem daunting. Fret not – we've compiled an overview of the finest travel fans, simplifying the decision-making process for you. Just choose your favorite, and you'll be all set for an incredible journey.

A travel fan offers a multitude of benefits that significantly enhance the overall travel experience. Its compact and portable design ensures that relief from the heat is always within reach, whether you're navigating bustling city streets or exploring the great outdoors. The customizable comfort provided by adjustable speed settings caters to individual preferences, ensuring the perfect balance between coolness and personal warmth. With rechargeable batteries and long-lasting power, travel fans are not only eco-friendly but also reliable for extended periods.

Unleash cool comfort on your travels with our portable travel fan  JISULIFE Handheld Mini Fan the perfect blend of power and portability for a refreshing breeze wherever you go!

Our Top Picks

Committed to assisting you in making informed choices, our team diligently scrutinizes and compares each product. Our detailed reports provide crucial information, enabling you to make confident and knowledgeable decisions.

1. Best Overall: JISULIFE Handheld Mini Fan

2. Best Budget: JZCreater USB Desk Mini Fan Portable

3. Best Material:  Gaiatop Portable Hand Held Fan

4. Best Durability: Amazon Basics 3 Speed Small Room Air Circulator Fan

5. Best Design:  Nezylaf Handheld Mini Fan

Top 5 Best Travel Fans

1. JISULIFE Handheld Mini Fan

Product Summary

An easily portable and lightweight choice that effortlessly fits into your bag or pocket. Featuring adjustable speed settings, a rechargeable battery, and a 360-degree rotation, this fan guarantees you stay cool in any circumstance. Noteworthy for its ultra-portability, quiet operation, and extended battery life.

Specification

• 【Small In Size, Big On Function】 Combined with Fan + Flashlight + Backup Power Bank function, JISULIFE F8 pocket bear fan would be an everyday-carry-essential fan to cool you off in hot day and is multifunctional to satisfy your diverse needs.
• 【14-21 Hours Cooling Time】Up to 21 hours cooling time in one full charge. Super long battery life allows you to enjoy it while travelling, commuting, working and any other outdoor activities. This mini handheld fan is USB rechargeable through regular usb socket, laptop, power bank or car charger. more

Reasons to buy

• Designed to be compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry wherever you go.
• Offers quick heat relief, particularly in warm areas.
• Enables you to alter the airflow to suit your comfort preferences.

Reasons to avoid

Due to their compact size, travel fans may have a limited reach and may not be as effective in larger spaces.

2. JZCreater USB Desk Mini Fan Portable

A versatile option that serves as both a power bank, ensuring your devices stay charged while providing cooling comfort. With three adjustable speed levels and a compact design, this fan is essential for on-the-go travelers. Highlighting dual functionality, strong airflow, and a robust build for added durability.

• 【Exquisite Design】 JZCreater small portable fan is compact and designed in unique modern look, lightweight and space-saving. It weighs about 160g which is very convenient to carry，suitable for home, office, desktop, car, camping, travel use or gift.
• 【Ultra Quiet】Feature with brush-less quiet motor, which makes the mini fan run quietly yet blow strong airflow. When in use the fans sound is lower than 50db at the high speed. The switch indicator will auto turn off after 30 seconds, power saving, soft wind and bass provide a good sleeping for baby. more
• Come with rechargeable batteries, eliminating the need for disposable ones.
• Can be powered through USB, making them versatile and compatible with various devices.
• Operates quietly, suitable for use in quiet environments or while sleeping.

Reasons to avoid.

The smaller blades on travel fans may produce less airflow compared to larger, stationary fans.

3. Gaiatop Portable Hand Held Fan

Blending style seamlessly with functionality, this fan presents a distinctive design and robust performance. Boasting soft cloth blades, two-speed settings, and a foldable design for effortless storage and portability. Recognized for its stylish aesthetics, dependable performance, and whisper-quiet operation.

• Powerful Airflow and Long Battery Life: The fan has 2 speeds which puts out quite a bit of airflow and a nice breeze. 2000mAh battery life lasts a long time. Fully charge 2.5 hours and run 14-21 hours. The blades are soft and safe. when the blades hit your fingers, it doesn’t hurt and it stops as soon as you hit it.
• 2000mAh Power Bank Fuction: This 2-in-1 fan can work as a power bank in an emergency. It comes with a 2000mAh rechargeable battery and 5V/1A usb output port, so you can charge your phone, laptop, MP3 or other things with it in a pinch. more
• Come with adjustable airspeed settings, allowing for versatile drying tailored to different detailing needs.
• Eliminate the need for towels, reducing the consumption of disposable materials and contributing to sustainability.
• The compact and lightweight design of these blowers makes them easy to use and store, ideal for at-home car care.

May have a shorter battery life, requiring more frequent recharging during extended use.

4. Amazon Basics 3 Speed Small Room Air Circulator Fan

• Air circulating fan with 7-inch blade for improving air flow in small rooms; suitable for tabletop or floor placement
• 3 speed settings: low, medium, and high; back-mounted control knob with intuitive settings (0, 1, 2, 3) more
• Can provide extended periods of use on a single charge.
• Designed for easy maintenance, with removable grills or blades.
• Sturdy construction ensures the fan can withstand the rigors of travel.

In crowded situations, a travel fan may only provide relief to the user, making it less suitable for cooling multiple people.

5. Nezylaf Handheld Mini Fan

With a 10-inch blade, dual-speed settings, and the flexibility of batteries or USB power, this fan excels in adaptability for various settings. It serves as a larger alternative, catering to those seeking enhanced cooling capabilities on the go. Its expanded size ensures increased airflow, complemented by versatile power choices and an adjustable head for personalized comfort.

• 🧊【Super Long Endurance and Strong Airflow】- Low/high speed level. Adjust appropriate fan speed by pressing the power button repeatedly. Two gear which can be variable speed design provides you more choices in different temperature environment.
• 🧊【Portable Design and Mini Size】- The foldable design makes it easy to carry and store. Besides, with the oval shape(1.3*1.3*4.7 Inches, Weight: 4.4 Oz), this rechargeable fan can hide the fan blade, small and easy to slide into your pocket and purse, with no frame design, it makes noise low to 50db that causes no bother during work. more
• An create a more comfortable sleeping environment with gentle breeze and white noise.
• Rechargeable batteries reduce the environmental impact of disposable batteries.
• Despite their compact size, many travel fans provide strong and effective airflow.
• The compact design may lead to more frequent cleaning, especially in environments where dust and debris are prevalent.

Buying Guides

Portability:

Seek out a design that is both compact and lightweight, effortlessly fitting into your travel bag or backpack. The emphasis on portability ensures convenient on-the-go use.

Power Source:

Choose between rechargeable batteries, USB-powered options, or those with both capabilities. This provides flexibility and ensures you have power sources readily available.

Adjustable Speed Settings:

Opt for a travel fan with multiple speed settings to customize airflow based on your comfort level and environmental conditions.

Battery Life:

Consider the fan's battery life, especially if you plan to use it for extended periods. A longer battery life is beneficial for day trips or long journeys between charging opportunities.

Noise Level:

Check reviews for information on the fan's noise level. A quieter operation is preferable, especially if you plan to use the fan in quiet environments or while sleeping.

Durability:

Look for a travel fan with sturdy construction that can withstand the rigors of travel. This is particularly important if you're going to use it in various settings or outdoor activities.

Versatility:

Assess additional features such as oscillation, 360-degree rotation, or the ability to be used as a desk fan. Versatile features enhance the fan's utility in different scenarios.

Design and Aesthetics:

Consider the fan's design and aesthetics, especially if style is important to you. Some fans come in various colors or unique designs that can complement your travel gear.

Compare Products

Jisulife handheld mini fan.

Gearz Score is a ranking system developed by CarAndTruck.org.  Gearz Score  has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites.  Learn more

• Brand JISULIFE
• 【14-21 Hours Cooling Time】Up to 21 hours cooling time in one full charge. Super long battery life allows you to enjoy it while travelling, commuting, working and any other outdoor activities. This mini handheld fan is USB rechargeable through regular usb socket, laptop, power bank or car charger.    more

EasyAcc Mini Portable Fan Handheld Fan

• Brand EasyAcc
• 🎁🎄【Christmas Gift for Kids, Girls and Women 】Nice gift for kids to keep cool and gift for girls to dry eyeliner, makeup spray or nail polish etc, or take it for traveling, Disney World, musical festivals, Party etc. 💖 Special care and heartwarming gift for women who is durring climacteric and suffer from hot flash.
• 🍃【Durability &Persistence&Environmental friendly 】Annoyed about for the mini fan only works 1 week, 1 month, 3 months? EasyAcc F18 mini handheld fan after Tens of thousands customers test, it is durable, which is good for resources saving, do not wasting. Environmental friendly and save your money.    more

Amazon Basics 3 Speed Box Fan

• Brand Amazon Basics
• Lightweight with carrying handle for easy transport
• 3 speed settings: low, medium, and high; front-facing control knob    more

Vornado Flippi V6 Personal Air Circulator Fan

• Brand Vornado
• Built to meet U. S. voltage requirements. Certified, safety-tested, and warrantied for use only in the U. S.
• SUPERIOR SUPPORT — Backed by a 3-year hassle-free promise and supported by a customer service team based in Andover, KS.    more

JZCreater USB Desk Mini Fan Portable

• Brand JZCreater
• 【High Compatibility USB-powered】This desk fan comes with a USB which is 3.7ft long and is in sync with all USB ports present on computer, wall charger etc just put it on power hassle free.(Note:This fan has no battery)    more

Stroller Fan Battery Operated

• Brand EXIN DECHEN
• warranty: We provide 36 months warranty and lifetime after-sales service.
• Superior Flexibility: This flexible tripod is made of high-quality metal and silicone cover, allowing you to adjust it to any angle you want. It also has a 360-degree horizontal rotation, which makes it suitable for use on tables, strollers, and tents.    more

JISULIFE Battery Rechargable Fan

• 【Portable & Gift Choice】FA26 desk fan weighs only 216g with cordless design, lighter, thinner, and more portable. It's perfect for use in office, desktop, bedroom，kitchen, camping, travel, etc. Practicality as a gift for women men kids.
• 【Worry-Free Service】Please feel free to get in touch with our customer service team once you meet a problem with this fan; JISULIFE provides 180 days hassle-free replacement and refund policy for this desk fan. We always insist to reply within 24 hours.    more

Nezylaf Handheld Mini Fan

• Brand Nezylaf
• 🧊【Customer Service】- Nezylaf provides professional customer service before and after purchase.We offer not only Best desk fan but also superb customer service.    more

Gaiatop Portable Hand Held Fan

• Brand Gaiatop
• 2 Inch Versatile Mini Fan: This battery operated fan is perfect for stroller, crib, car seat, desk, gym, camping, cycling or anywhere else you'd need extra wind. Small size allows you to pack the hand fan with you when travelling, Present beautiful lanyards,you can hang it on your hands or travel backpack.
• Run While Charging: This handheld portable fan get power supply from USB devices, such as powerbank, computer, laptop, USB charger. It can be fully charged within 2.5 hours and used when you are working, walking or travel outdoor.    more

Amazon Basics 3 Speed Small Room Air Circulator Fan

• Product Dimensions: 6.3 x 11.1 x 10.9 inches (LxWxH)    more

Last update on 2024-04-27 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

Can I use a travel fan while charging it?

This depends on the specific model. Some travel fans allow simultaneous use and charging, while others may not. Refer to the product manual or specifications to determine if this feature is supported.

Are travel fans easy to clean?

Many travel fans are designed for easy cleaning. Look for models with removable grills or blades that facilitate cleaning. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and airflow.

Final Thoughts

A travel fan proves to be an invaluable companion for anyone on the move. Whether exploring bustling cities, enjoying outdoor activities, or simply seeking respite from the heat, a travel fan offers personalized comfort and relief. With a wide range of options available to suit different preferences and budgets, investing in a reliable travel fan ensures that you can stay refreshed and comfortable throughout your journeys, making it an essential addition to any traveler's gear. Stay cool, stay comfortable, and enhance your travel experiences with the convenience of a travel fan.

Read more review here:  The 10 Best Car Dryer Blowers

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The Best RV Vent Fans for Your Camper, Travel Trailer & Motorhome

Writen by Tom Hank

Fact checked by Joseph Varney

Traveling via RV can offer loads of fun, but it also has some inconveniences. For instance, if you are traveling with your whole family, the inside could get a bit stuffy, especially during the humid summer months. You can turn on the air conditioning, but you will be wasting quite a lot of energy. If you had the best RV vent fan or two installed, it is a whole other ball game.

Having RV fans and vents will allow you to draw out the stale air from inside the vehicle and replace it with fresh air from the outside. Alternatively, many fan brands also will enable you to reverse the flow of air. It means you can draw fresh air from outside into the recreational vehicle. Either way, you will ventilate your campervan interior efficiently.

Now, if it is your first time buying an RV roof vent replacement, this article might be of great help. You will learn about the factors that you need to consider when shopping for a fan. You can also access a couple of product reviews and suggestions so that you can find that one vent fan (or two) that you can install. Here are just some of our recommended products.

Table of Contents

Best RV Vent Fan Reviews

1. fan-tastic vent 801250 vent.

One viable reason why you should get this RV ceiling vent is that it can efficiently move air in and out of your recreational vehicle.

The Fan-Tastic Vent 801250 1250 Series Vent has ten blades, which is then mated to a powerful and heavy-duty electric motor. It can keep your rig cool and dry even on the hottest summer day.

Another feature that I liked is that the fan blades are clear. It means that aside from keeping the air fresh inside the RV, it can also let a lot of natural light through. Even when the RV bathroom exhaust fan is not in use, the lid cover still has a light tint, so sunlight can always shine through.

This vent fan also has three fan speeds you can choose from. If it is not that humid and stuffy, you can just set the fan to work on a 1-speed or 2-speed setting. You can also reverse the fan’s direction if you ever want it to blow fresh air from the outside in.

The Fan-tastic vent cover lies on a rubber gasket when closed. You will also notice it being elevated a bit to prevent rainwater from leaking into the vehicle. This design also prevents drafts from getting inside the RV.

• Comes with ten fan blades to move to a larger volume of air quickly
• Has clear fan blades that let in sunlight
• Features multiple fan speeds
• Boasts of reversible airflow controls
• Equipped with a self-sealing vent RV roof vent cover
• The fan is quite loud at full blast.

2. Livpow RV Roof Vent

I find the Livpow RV roof vent fan a joy to install. It took me more time to remove my old fan than installing this new one. The whole process just involved connecting two wires to the RV circuit. After that, it is ready for use.

Speaking of installation, this fan fits perfectly into the 14-inch x 14-inch hole previously occupied by the old fan. There was no need to modify the opening in any way. The installation was as simple as dropping the fan in and sealing the sides.

I also liked that there are variable speeds to choose from at both fan directions. You can choose from three different fan speeds to either reduce or increase the airflow. I also discovered two settings to use when the fan is pulling air into the RV. What a convenient and versatile product.

I like the most about the Livpow roof vent fan because it is surprisingly quiet. It barely makes any noise, so you can use it as a fan for the RV bedroom. Even when I set it at the fastest fan speed, I can barely hear the motor spinning.

• Easy and hassle-free installation with only minimal wiring required
• Fits into any standard 14-inch x 14-inch vent openings
• Boasts of its variable speed to either reduce or increase the airflow
• Comes with reversible fan direction
• Powerful yet silent motor (ideal for RV bedroom)
• Only two air-in speeds provided

3. Maxxair 00-05100K Ventilation Fan

One neat feature I admire the most in the Maxxair fan that I could not see in other fan models is the built-in thermostat .

In detail, this thermostat turns on the fan when the RV temperature gets a bit too high for comfort. It is a nice inclusion since you do not technically have to turn the fan on all the time.

Best of all, this one has a ten-speed controller, so you can tweak the speed, depending on your needs. You can also reverse the direction of the fan blades’ rotation, so instead of drawing air out of the vehicle, it will be pulling air inside. You will also enjoy using the ten fan speeds for both directions.

Also, you do not have to worry about rainwater leaking inside the vehicle through the vent fan. The cowling is a couple of inches above the roofline, so runoff will not get into the fan. The cover also has a built-in rain shield, so you can keep the fan running even when there is a light rain shower.

Another notable feature of this vent fan is that it comes with an easy to remove bug screen. It prevents even the smallest bugs from getting inside the RV even when the fan is in use. It makes clean up and maintenance a lot easier.

Also, you can fit this standard RV fan to any 14-inch x 14-inch opening without difficulty.

• Comes with a built-in thermostat
• Has a built-in rain shield
• Has a 10-speed fan, both intake and exhaust
• Features an easy-to-remove insect screen for hassle-free cleaning
• Fits in any standard 14-inch x 14-inch opening
• Not so excellent customer service

4. Ventline RV Roof Vent

One of the things that I like about the Ventline RV Roof Vent fan is that it already comes with the basic mounting materials (butyl tape and mounting screws). The only thing that you will need to complete installation is a tube of self-leveling lap sealant.

Although the lid is plastic, you do not need to worry about it flying off while driving. In truth, its wedge-shaped and aerodynamically-designed structure allow it to stay closed while the RV is in motion.

Also, the installation is not that hard. The only difficult part is removing the old fan as well as the remaining sealant. You just need to drop this fan down the opening and attach two wires to power it up.

It is a good vent fan replacement if you do not have much in terms of a budget. Because this vent fan is very basic, do not expect other additional features aside from a crank lid/rain cover opener and an on/off switch.

• Comes with basic mounting materials required
• Has a wedge-shaped lid for aerodynamics
• Comes with a durable galvanized iron mounting flange
• Easy to install as it only requires minimal wiring
• Fits a 14.25-inch x 14.25-inch opening

5. Maxxair Vent Corp 00-04000K Maxxfan

One impressive fact about the Maxxfan is that it comes with a remote control for ease of use. Notably, unlike other remote-controlled vent fans, it also comes with backup controls.

Another neat feature of this fan that I genuinely like is that it can run even with the lid closed. This feature is handy if the vehicle is rolling down the road and you want to circulate the air inside the RV.

Compared to most competing vent fan models, this one has two beefy lift arms for the lid. It means that you can operate the fan with the top open even when the RV is moving. The arms will keep the cover secure.

Another nice feature is that this fan comes with 10-speed settings to draw air in and out of the recreational vehicle. If you are the type of person who needs to have their fan speed at a particular setting, then you would love this one.

Also, do not worry if this fan can offer a secure fit as it goes well with all standard 14-inch x 14-inch RVs.

• Comes with a remote control for the fan and controls on the actual unit.
• Runs even with the camper vent cover closed to circulate air inside
• Has two lift arms for a stronger support system
• Fits any standard 14-inch x 14-inch RV
• Comes with 10-speed settings for the fan
• The bug screen rusts quite quickly

6. Hengs 90046-CR Vortex II Fan Kit

The Hengs Fan Kit is among the high-quality products you can rely on in the long haul.

The first thing that you will notice about this vent fan is that it can move quite a large volume of air – 188 cubic feet per minute, to be exact. It means that the interior of your RV will always remain fresh and cool all the time.

Like many of the vent fans in this list, the Heng’s Vortex II is also easy to install. Just drop it into the RV roof openings and connect the two wires to the circuit. After sealing up the outer edges, you are already good to go.

Even though the fan is large and can quickly move a huge volume of air, it is still surprisingly quiet. You can leave it on all night, and you will not even notice it working. The slight humming noise might even help you sleep better.

Another positive thing about this fan that is worth highlighting is that it is extremely easy to clean its blades. All you have to do is remove the cowling inside the vehicle. You can then give the fan blades a quick wipe to prevent dust from collecting on them.

• Strong 188 cfm fan for fresh and cool air all the time
• Easy to install and requires only minimal wiring
• Quiet fan despite being so strong
• Easy to clean the blades to avoid dust building up
• Has a not ergonomically designed lid crank

7. Fan-Tastic Vent RV Roof Vent

Our next model – the Fan-tastic RV Vent Fan comes with a thermostat. It means that you can just set the temperature, and the fan will do its best to hit it. The fan will adjust its speed so the temperature inside the vehicle will always be comfortable.

This vent fan also has clear fan blades and a tinted lid, so regardless of the fan operating or not, you will have a bit of natural light inside your RV whenever it is available. It is a big help in conserving energy. You will even notice its contribution in making you save you a lot of money in the long run.

When it starts to rain, you do not have to scramble to get to your vent fan and manually close the lid. The Fan-tastic vent fan has a rain sensor that will automatically turn off the fan and close the lid, thus keeping the interior of your RV always dry. Such a feature also ensures its smooth functions for a long time.

What amazes me is the variable speed incorporated in this vent fan. It has a reverse switch to change the airflow direction, smoothly drawing the hot air out and cool air into the RV.

As expected, the fan can be adjusted using a remote control. I find it easier to set the thermostat and the fan’s speed when done via remote control. You can just sit back and adjust the vent fan to your desired comfort level.

• Comes with a thermostat and automatic speed settings
• Has clear fan blades that let in natural light
• Features an automatic rain sensor
• Comes with variable fan speeds for both directions
• Features a remote control for easy adjustment
• A high-priced vent fan

8. Camco 40480 Roof Vent Kit

I used to worry if the appliances attached to my RV roof will cause rainwater to leak through. Fortunately, when I installed the Camco RV vent cover featuring a one-piece frame, leaking issues no longer caused me a headache.

Most users appreciate how the blades of this vent fan are transparent. Such a design allows natural light to come in when the exhaust fan is in operation. Even the fan’s lid is translucent, so even if it is not turned on, there will still be a bit of natural light getting in the RV.

The mesh screen is a nice touch, as well. Unlike my old RV roof vent fan, this new model’s bug screen can be cleaned easily, making maintenance tasks a breeze. Notably, the screen can stop the insects from entering the fan and affecting its performance from time to time.

This product is also pretty easy to install. I am no electrician, but I could wire the fan in just a couple of minutes with only two wirings available. It took me literally just a couple of minutes as there are only two wires to work with.

• Comes with leak-resistant one-piece frame
• Boasts of a translucent white vent lid
• Comes with a built-in mesh screen to prevent insects from entering
• Breezy cleaning and maintenance
• Promotes breezy and hassle-free installation
• An affordable vent fan for RV
• The plastic lid is not so durable

9. Hike Crew 14” RV Roof Vent Fan

RV owners do not need a degree in electrical engineering to install the Hike Crew Motorhome Fan. It only has two color-coded wires to connect to the RV circuit. So prepare a drill, a screwdriver, and a sealant, and you can make this fan work flawlessly and stay put.

What is distinct about this product must be its versatility. The fan excels at removing excessive moisture in the RV, allowing us to experience comfort even in humid weather. You will also never need to suffer through another stuffy summer day when you have this vent fan running.

The ventilation function is on another level with its three speed fan. It allows users to reverse the airflow if you want to take more fresh air from the outside. Due to this reverse mode, all weird odors stuck in your RV can be pushed out, leaving a great-smelling interior all the time.

One of the things that I look for in a vent fan is the ease of cleaning. I do not want to climb up on top of the roof every time I want to clean the fan blades. Thankfully, the Hike Crew vent fan allows easy access to the blades by removing the cover inside the cabin. After that, a piece of cloth and some soap will do the job.

• Comes with two color-code wires for easy installation
• Removes moisture and excess heat in the RV
• Excellent ventilation function with a reverse mode
• Allows fresh air to come in and pushes out weird odors
• Low-maintenance with easy-to-clean fan blades, only requires soap and cloth
• Operates quietly without disturbing daily routines in the RV
• The inbound fan speed is not that fast

10. HENG’S 14″ RV Roof Vent

The next valuable piece that you should consider having is the HENG’S 14″ RV Camper Trailer ROOF Vent Fan.

An amazing feature of this vent fan is the mesh screen. This screen is tough enough to withstand the changing weather conditions of RV life. Also, it can block the bug’s entrance while letting the fresh air go inside your RV. The screen is also easily removable, making it easier to clean when needed.

I kind of like the old school handle that comes with this vent fan. Unlike the knobs that come with the more sophisticated models, the crank is easier to turn. The discreet push-button is also a nice touch.

The lid also sits on top of a thick rubber gasket. It is very deep, thereby guaranteeing that there will be no rainwater that will leak inside the RV. The only reason that rainwater can get inside is if the sealant outside were to fail. More importantly, as the device runs on 12-volt power, it is ideal for RV use.

• Comes with a removable mesh bug screen
• Has a convenient crank handle for opening the lid
• The lid sits on a thick rubber gasket , blocking rainwater
• Has a discreet push-button power switch
• Ideal for Rv use: runs on 12 volts
• Requires caulk and screws for easy mounting
• Be careful due to the sharp vent flanges

11. Maxxair 0004500K Fan

This Maxxair vent fan comes with a thermostat, so you can just set the fan to a specific temperature and leave it at that. It is a great alternative to having your air conditioning turned on all the time. It saves money and keeps the RV comfortable.

A nice convenient touch that comes with this vent fan is a neat remote control. The remote included has an LCD screen that shows you its current settings. Best of all, there are also manual controls on the fan itself if you misplace the remote.

Speaking of controls, you can fine-tune the operation of the fan using the 10-speed controller. You can set the fan speed to maintain a specific temperature and humidity inside the vehicle to your exact comfort levels.

You may think that with all of the sophisticated electronics that come with this vent fan, you will need a professional electrician to help with installation. But that is not the case, and you only need to do minimal wiring. You just have to connect two wires to the RV electric circuit and make sure your RV ceiling vent opening is standard 14×14 inches.

• Has a nice remote with an LCD screen
• Features controls in the ceiling
• 10-speed fan controller for specific comfort level
• Installation is minimal with a standard vent opening
• Customer service needs improvement

12. Vortex Ii Vent Fan Upgrade

Good news! You do not need to pry out the entire vent fan assembly if the RV roof fans no longer work or if you want something a bit more efficient. You just need to get the Vortex Ii RV vent fan upgrade. With that, you will only be replacing the fan mechanism, and it will be like you have a new vent fan.

Because of the fan blades’ design, this product is more efficient at moving air in and out of the RV than your previous fan. Even at low fan speeds, you will notice a huge difference in air quality.

Installation was also quite easy, even for first-time users. They will only need a basic screwdriver to remove the old one and install this new RV roof vent fan. In truth, we only have to connect two color-coded wires for added convenience.

Aside from being efficient at circulating air inside the RV, this replacement/fan upgrade also has a small current draw. It means you will be getting a better fan and save on electric costs in the long run.

Also, you should know that this device is made in a universal fit. It can be an incredible replacement for Heng’s, Ventline, Elixir vent fan.

• Can efficiently move air in and out of the RV
• Features a variable speed controller for both fan directions
• Simple installation with color-coded wires and a screwdriver
• Fits perfectly on vent fan housings from other brands: Ventline, Heng’s and more
• Has a small current draw and saves a lot of electricity
• The fan blades can be tricky to clean.

13. MaxxAir 00-933069 Vent Cover

Have you ever wished that you can open the RV roof vent even when it is raining outside? It is now possible if you install the Maxx Air vent cover over your exhaust/intake fan. You can enjoy fresh and cool air inside your RV all year round.

The RV vent cover replacement is made using high-quality polyethylene plastic. You will also love the fact that it has UV-treatment, preventing it from deteriorating even when exposed to extreme sunlight. You can be sure that this cover can last for many years.

As long as your RV uses the standard vent opening, which is 14-inch x 14-inch, you should have no fitment problems whatsoever. Even if your existing fan is not from Maxx Air, this cover should still be compatible with it.

I also like how this vent cover comes with a mesh screen to prevent debris and bugs from getting inside the RV. Even when you leave the vent fan open but not operating, the bugs will not be able to invade your RV.

• Provides excellent protection against the rain
• Made of high-density polyethylene and UV-resistant
• Allows air to circulate regardless of the weather condition
• Can fit on all standard 14×14 inch openings
• Comes with a mesh filter to prevent bugs and debris from getting in
• Requires a drill for installation

14. MaxxAir 00-07500K MaxxFan Deluxe

Maxxair offers another RV vent fan that proves to be efficient when moving air around in the RV cabin. If you want to save on air conditioning costs, you will love this product.

Even on the hottest summer days, you will feel dry and cool inside your camper RV when this fan is operating. This RV vent fan is indeed a powerful device offering up to 900 CFM for all-day comfort.

I like the 10-speed fan controller for both intake and exhaust directions. If you like your RV interior to be a bit humid, you can set the fan on 5 or 6. If you want the interior to be cool, you can set the fan speed to nearly the maximum.

The great thing about Maxx Air vent fans is that certain fan models come with a remote controller. You can effortlessly operate your vent fan and open its lid from a distance.

I also like the Maxxair Maxxfan deluxe lid design because it allows you to operate the fan even when it is raining outside. The vent holes point down, so rainwater will not be able to get inside the fan.

• Over 900 CFM of air displacement
• Has a built-in thermostat for climate control
• Has a 10-speed fan controller
• Fits all standard 14-inch x 14-inch RV roof openings
• Comes with a remote controller
• Not very detailed manuals

Best RV Vent Fans Buying Guide

Is it your first time to shop for an RV roof vent? Then it is understandable if you don’t even know what you need to look for. You don’t have to worry since this buyer’s guide will teach you all the things you have to keep an eye out for. Among the most important ones are:

The size of your RV roof vent – You need to ensure that the RV roof vent fan you will be getting can fit inside the hole it is supposed to go into. Most RV vent fans often come in the 14-inch x 14-inch standard size.

However, there is always the chance that your RV uses unorthodox sizes, like 13-inch x 14-inch or 14.5-inch x 14.5-inch, so use your tape measure and double-check the size of the opening. Aside from the square dimensions, check the thickness of the roof material you will be working with, too.

Speed control – Several vent fans come with only one speed, and that is its default setting. However, you can also find those fans that come with variable speed controls, meaning you can set their speeds. It is especially useful when the direction is reversible, and you have it set to blowing air inside the vehicle.

Some models also come with 10-speed settings, while most just have a three speed fan. However, the settings on the 10-speed fans have minor changes from one to the next. With that, some discovered that it is better to settle for a fan that has just three settings with a noticeable difference in fan strength in between each setting.

CFM rating – CFM stands for cubic feet per minute, and it refers to the volume of air that the RV roof vent fan can move or remove from a room. If a vent fan has a higher CFM rating, it can move a larger volume of stale air and humidity faster. With that said, fans with a larger CFM rating tend to be more expensive and consume more power.

Amount of current required – Before you pull the trigger on an RV vent fan, you need to check if the fan’s current draw is compatible with the electric circuit of your vehicle. In other words, your RV should be able to provide the vent fan with enough current for the motor to work. On average, a vent fan set on high will have a current draw of around 3 amperes.

Ease of installation – If you are buying a brand-new replacement for your RV vent fan, then the installation process should be quite straightforward. The whole process should be so simple that it involves removing the existing vent fan by scraping the existing sealant and then popping off the screws holding the old vent fan in place.

Most of the vents being sold right now come in the standard size, 14-inch x 14-inch. However, on the odd chance that you bought something smaller, you should not force yourself to swap it in. You will only have a hard time doing so, and it will not be worth it at all.

Lid opening method – There are two basic lid opening methods that you can choose from – automatic and manual. It will be a matter of preference which method you choose. For instance, automatic opening vent fan lids are more convenient as you can open and close them just by pressing a button.

Some vent fans also tend to close automatically when it’s raining. The downside to automatic closing lids is that they will require a bit more wiring during the installation. Aside from that, these fan models are higher-priced.

On the other hand, fans that have manual lids are not that hard to open. They usually come with a crank knob that is not that difficult to turn. One advantage of a manual hand crank is that you can open the lid to the degree that you want. It is not like the automatic opening lids, where they open all the way only. With that, one can argue that automatic opening lids are more of a luxury rather than a necessity.

Motor durability – If you are serious about saving on air conditioning costs, you will most likely have the camper van vent fan most of the time while you are camping. It means that you will be putting a lot of strain on the fan motor, so you should choose a vent fan with a heavy-duty motor that can last a long time.

The only way to find out which vent fans can last a long time is by consulting the RV vent fan customer reviews online. The verified customers have nothing to gain for lying on the brand’s behalf, so most of them can be brutally honest with their reviews. If many reviewers say that a certain product has a good fan motor, you can most likely trust them.

Reverse fan direction – The main function of a roof vent fan is to draw hot and humid air out of the vehicle. That means the RV roof vent fan blows air out of the recreational vehicle. However, there are times when you will want to draw fresh air from the outside into the RV, like when you park in a particularly cool area.

It is also a good way to ventilate the entire RV while parked. Open all the windows and turn on the vent fan to draw air from outside indoors. It is highly advisable to get a vent fan with a reversible direction. You will surely find the use of this function while traveling in your RV, so it will always be handy to have it.

Price – The price will be purely subjective, so the best thing you can do regarding this factor is to get the best vent fan within your budget range. With that said, you should not set your budget so low that the only vent fans that you can get are the absolute cheapest ones. Keep in mind that the cheapest ones do not work quite as well as you would think they would. Moreover, these units often do not last that long.

How Many Types of Vent Fans for RV Are There?

There are a couple of different types of RV vent fans that you can choose from depending on what your needs are. Among the most common ones are:

Standard vent – This type is just a simple vent. You just have to install it so that there will be an opening where stale air and smells can escape, and fresh air from the outside can come inside the recreational vehicle. It is just a fancy hole in your roof that you can open and close.

Vent fan with crank lid opening – These units are the vents with actual fans. It is much better than the previous type as it comes with a fan that vents out inside air outside to maintain the inside temperature inside cool and the air fresh.

Many brands also allow you to reverse the fan direction to blow fresh air from outside inside the recreational vehicle. You can open the vent cover from the inside of the vehicle using a manual hand crank, but some feature a lever that you can use to prop the cover open.

Electronic lid opening – This unit is very similar to the previous vent fan type. It comes with an electronic fan that blows air out and/or into the vehicle. The difference between the two is that this one has an automatic electronic cover. You just need to push a button or flip a switch to open or close the lid.

Several electric lid vent fans come with an automatic rain sensor. It means that when the vent fan gets a bit wet from the rain, it will automatically close the lid and turn off the fan.

How Does an RV Vent Fan Work?

A vent fan is installed on the roof of the RV. When you turn on the vent fan, it will draw out the air and moisture from inside the vehicle outside. It keeps the air inside the RV fresh and prevents it from getting stale and heavy. It is also great for drawing out the kitchen smells and humidity along with the range hood.

Many brands allow you to reverse the spin of the RV roof vent fan to draw air from the outside into the vehicle. It is a great idea if you park somewhere with outdoor air that is quite fresh and cool. It will allow you to keep the interior of your RV cool and the air inside fresh. With that, you can save energy because you no longer need to turn on the air conditioner quite as often.

Who Makes the Best Vent Fan for RV?

You can find many reliable manufacturers of vent fans that you can choose from. I have tested quite a lot of them, and among the brands that stood out are Fan-Tastic, Livpow, Maxxair, Ventline, Heng’s, Camco, Hike Crew, and Vortex. I can guarantee that these brands are some of the best that you will ever find.

Maxx Fan vs. Fan-Tastic Fan: Which One Is Better?

Although both these fans are great choices, the winner between the two is the Maxx RV roof vent fan. The primary reason is that it comes with a remote control, which allows you to control the fan’s speed and direction and the opening and closing of the lid.

Are All RV Roof Vents the Same Size?

When you shop for RV vent fans, you will most likely find that they only come in one size, 14-inch x 14-inch. Although some come in 13-inch x 14-inch, they are still hard to find, and they usually do not fit in most RVs. If you will be replacing a vent fan in your RV, it will likely leave an opening that will fit a 14-inch x 14-inch vent fan.

How Do You Replace an RV Ventilation Fan?

If you need to replace the old RV vent fan, you do not need to hire an electrician; you can do it yourself quite easily. You just need a replacement fan and a couple of handy tools. You should then follow these steps:

Step 1 – Get the right-sized replacement fan

You will need to measure the dimensions of your existing fan carefully. Although most RV vent fans are 14-inch x 14-inch, you should measure it again just to be on the safe side. There is no telling if your existing fan has one of those obscure measurements, so save yourself all of the hassles of returning your purchase and waiting for the replacement.

Step 2 – Take out the vent

You will need to remove the knobs and screws that hold the fan’s plastic shroud inside the recreational vehicle. After removing all the screws, the cover should just drop down.

Once the cover of the fan is off, disconnect the wires that provide power to the fan. You just join them using clips to not even strip and join the wires later. Set the power supply wire aside so that it will not get in the way of the new fan, but make sure that you can still reach it later.

Step 3 – Remove the sealant

For this step, you will need to get up on the roof and locate the fan. Remove the screws anchoring the vent fan in place, but a thick layer of sealant will cover them. You will need to remove as much of the sealant as you can. Do not stop when you expose the screws. Get most of the sealant off, and the edges of the vent fan should be visible.

If you are having trouble removing the sealant, you can use a heat gun to warm up the sealant and get it soft enough that you can easily scrape it off the vent fan.

Step 4 – Pry up the vent

Move your scraping tool around the edge of the vent until it starts to lift off the surface. There might be a bit of butyl tape holding the fan onto the roof, so you will probably need to move it little by little until you can pull it out of the hole in the roof.

Step 5 – Take out all the excess sealant

You will need to take this step slow and muster as much of your patience as you can. Use a heat gun or a blow dryer set on medium or high to heat the sealant to be easier to remove.

You need to be extra careful here to easily damage the roof if you make even one small mistake. When there is just a bit of sealant left, you can clean up the remainder using a few mineral spirits. Just apply a liberal amount of the spirit onto the remaining sealant bits using a rag. Wait a few minutes to let it do its work, and gently use a scraper and a rag to remove them.

You will want a clean and neat surface before installing the new fan, so use a bit of rubbing alcohol to get all the dust off the surface. It will give the butyl mounting tape a better surface to cling onto.

Step 6 – Mount the new fan

Do a test fitting of the new fan. It will give you an idea of which direction the fan will go into. Aside from that, it can tell you if you have to modify the opening a bit more. Once you are satisfied with the fit, you can place butyl tape around the hole edges and make sure that there are no gaps where water can seep through.

Carefully place the fan over the opening and apply a bit of pressure to make sure that it sticks onto the butyl tape. After that, screw in the self-tapping screws into the holes in the frame and through the butyl tape and the roof material.

Do not overtighten the screws. Go around the frame, gradually tightening each screw to compress the putty a little bit each time. Stop when the screws are considerably hand-tight already.

Step 7 – Apply sealant around the fan edges

Grab a tube of lap sealant and apply a generous amount around the edges of the vent fan. Start by placing a dollop of the sealant over each screw head and then go over the edge of the vent fan.

If you use a self-leveling sealant, wait for it to spread out and settle, which usually takes 24 hours. If you are not using a self-leveling sealant, then you will have to spread it out by hand.

It is best to use self-leveling lap sealant when the weather is above 60 degrees F. It can help ensure that it will settle and cure quicker. Cold lap sealant is very difficult to work with, and it will take more than a day to settle.

If you cannot avoid applying the sealant in cold weather, you can use a heat gun set on medium to heat the tube gradually so that the material can flow easily. You can also use the heat gun on the applied sealant so it can spread out faster.

Step 8 – Connect the fan to the power

Go inside your recreational vehicle, and then connect the new fan to the power supply wire. Make sure that the clips are on securely. You should hear an audible clicking sound when you join the two ends together. Check if you connected the fan properly. If you did everything correctly, the fan should turn on.

Step 9 – Install the new fan shroud

This one serves as the last step. Place the new fan shroud over the fan and make sure that you do not overtighten the screws. Doing so might crack the shroud.

Care and Maintenance

There are a couple of things that you can do to make your RV vent fan last for as long as they possibly can. The most important and probably the most frequent maintenance task you will be doing on the fan is cleaning the screen. The screen prevents bugs and bits of debris from getting into the vehicle.

The nice thing here is that its design allows the easy removal of the screen. Once you remove the screen, you should clean it in a basin of soapy water and with the help of a soft brush to remove any dirt stuck on it. Allow it to dry completely before you reattach it to the fan.

The fan blades will also need cleaning from time to time. However, unlike the screen, it is much more difficult to remove the blades. You must climb up to the roof, disconnect the fan from the power, remove the RV vent fan motor. After that, you have to take out the fan attached to it.

However, if you do not need to deep clean the blades, it is much easier to place your hand inside a sock and dip it in some clean water. Reach into the fan and wipe as much dirt from the fan blades as you can.

If you have not used a vent fan in your RV, I highly suggest that you get one. You will immediately notice the difference in air quality, and you will also notice how much money you will be saving from air conditioning costs.

However, it is important to get the best RV vent fan that you can find to gain most of the benefits of using one. The buying guide presented above offers all the things you need to know to not be wasting time and money on the wrong product. You can now shop with confidence, knowing that you already know what to look for.

Hi, I am Tom Hank, an RV-er since 2014. Back then, I started without much help. As you can imagine, the struggles are endless. But now, you do not have to begin your adventures knowing next to nothing about RV lives.

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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• Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

Moscow Metro walking tour

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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Lions fans explode in delight about draft choice on record setting night in Detroit

The Detroit Lions faithful were rewarded for their patience Thursday night and exploded in cheers when the team traded up and selected a desperately needed cornerback from the University of Alabama with its first pick in the 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit.

The Lions were set to select near the end of the night at No. 29 until the team traded with the Dallas Cowboys for the No. 24 slot and picked cornerback Terrion Arnold. Draft analysts had said the Lions needed a defensive back after the team released cornerback Cam Sutton following domestic violence allegations and Sutton's hesitancy to turn himself in to authorities.

Several fans chanted "Arno," and the chants only grew louder when the newest member of the pride walked on stage and announced, "I'm home." Inner circle Lions "superfans" seated in the Draft Theater swarmed Arnold for photos after his selection was announced.

The Alabama player's selection came on a night when Detroit set an NFL draft first day attendance record and received praises from attendees from inside the state and out for its hospitality and atmosphere. The developments prompted Visit Detroit spokesman Christopher Moyer to vow that Motown would set more records and put the three-day draft attendance record set in Nashville, Tenn., in 2019 in the city's sights.

Dan Thayer, of Kalamazoo, said he loved the Lions' pick of Arnold and lauded the pipeline of standout Alabama players coming to Detroit over the last few seasons. The Lions' first round choice last year was Alabama running back Jahmyr Gibbs.

"I'm excited to see another 'Bama guy come into the system. They've been strong so far, and Arnold seems like an absolute dog," said Thayer, 29. "Clearly he's a star in his own words."

In a clip shown on ESPN, Arnold promised his high school janitor that he would be given a jersey from his new NFL team after the player gave him an Alabama jersey.

Thayer said he expects a divisional championship from the Lions next season and maybe even a Super Bowl.

"Three years ago you would have sounded insane. After this past season that's what I want to see," Thayer said, referring to the Lions appearance in the National Football Conference championship game. "It (the Draft) has been an incredible experience. Detroit showed out extremely well, and the audience has been unbelievable, and downtown's never looked better."

Crowd cheers Vikings' pick of McCarthy

A Michigan quarterback got a hometown welcome when the Minnesota Vikings drafted J.J. McCarthy with the 10th pick Thursday night in the NFL Draft.

The Vikings traded with another team to select earlier in the draft so they could get McCarthy, who led Michigan to college's national football championship.

Cheers rang out from the crowd stretching back to Campus Martius and Monroe Street, even though McCarthy went to a division rival. Maize and blue jerseys with McCarthy's No. 9 could be seen dotting the crowd and heard particularly loudly.

Detroit sets draft record

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said Thursday night that Detroit had set a league draft record with Day 1 attendance of more than 275,000 people.

The NFL number is attendance within the draft footprint, said Christopher Moyer with Visit Detroit. The police estimate of 400,000 is for all of the people who visited the city on Thursday, he said.

"The message is: Come back tomorrow," Moyer said. "We're going to keep setting records."

Draft imprint hits capacity

Detroit's NFL Draft footprint hit maximum capacity around 6:30 p.m. Thursday, prompting officials to shut off entry for the rest of the evening and causing some fans to try to go around police.

Workers who left the imprint and tried to get back in were denied entry. They stood at the gate near Fort Street and Lafayette, arguing with police to get back in.

As more crowds arrived, people started using the exits as entrances, hopping over fences and trying to bypass police. Police succeeded in blocking them, yelling "This is an exit. Turn around."

By 6:45 p.m., the NFL One Pass app said the draft area was closed and would not reopen for the rest of the evening. The app advised fans to visit Grand Circus Park or go to other Draft Day in the D viewing parties.

“We’ve just been waiting here for 20 minutes, and the police told us to be patient and wait for people to leave to get back in, but now we’re hearing they’re closing it off,” said Justin Williams, 47, of Saginaw. “This is very disappointing.”

“It’s crazy. It wasn’t even that busy around 5 p.m. We were just leaving to check out the other areas,” said Adam Ware, 35, of Montrose. “It’s not like we’re coming back tomorrow. We only slotted today for this.”

Detroit police officials said there were no incidents or arrests.

“We are currently at maximum capacity,” a police spokesman told The Detroit News.

Around 7:35 p.m., police deployed in large numbers to block the major intersections at Washington Blvd. and Michigan Ave. as herds of people left the footprint area to find other places where they can watch the draft. Police are transitioning to the task of directing traffic, with more than a handful at each intersection.

The NFL app reminded fans that Friday's draft area would open at noon.

Dancing between picks

While some fans looked for exits as temperatures dropped, others stayed warm by huddling together or dancing between picks.

Livonia native Tyler Lance boldly wore green and yellow overalls and a cheese head hat in support of the Green Bay Packers, who currently have the 25th pick in the first round. He plans to go to every day of the three-day draft and said he never thought Detroit would host something like it.

"Good for the city. … It's something you reserve for like New York, LA or Chicago. It's normally something that Detroit doesn't get the chance to host," said Lance, 26. "Even though I'm not a Lions fan, I'm more than happy to show up and support the city."

When the draft footprint reached maximum capacity, Lance was all the way back in Hart Plaza. But he was able to get closer to the stage as the night moved on and the Packers' 25th pick approached. He plans to stay until at least then.

Indiana family cheers Bears' pick

The Chicago Bears' second pick in the first round, University of Washington wide receiver Rome Odunze, was met with cheers from Maria and Justin Milam, who brought their two girls, ages five and three, to Detroit from northwest Indiana.

"It's not every year that you get a No. 1 pick," Maria said, referring to the Bears' selection of USC quarterback Caleb Willaims. "We're just looking for that spark in Chicago because it's electrifying when the team is just rocking."

The couple was ecstatic, already planning what games to attend next season. Maria hadn't been to Detroit since she was a teenager and said it seems like the city is starting to boom.

"It's been really cool to see since it's been so long and now I'm coming back as an adult," Maria said. "It was such a good experience for us to have as a family with our kids. We're trying to make memories for them."

Michigan Central get blue

The Michigan Central, the former train station being renovated by Ford Motor Co., was bathed in Honolulu blue lights on Thursday night.

A sea of Honolulu blue

The capacity crowd included football fans from all over the country who had descended downtown for the first day of the three-day NFL Draft, decked out in gear from their favorite teams.

Many said they were enjoying the camaraderie of being around fans from other cities, while Detroit Lions fans represented the majority of draft goers as evidenced by the sea of Honolulu Blue jersey and other gear along the streets.

Some drove, others flew to be part of the action. An estimated 300,000 to 400,000 people are expected to visit Detroit for the draft, which officially starts at 8 p.m. Thursday.

'We should've stayed'

At Honest John’s in Midtown, Detroiter Michael Ballentine and his friends rushed in to watch Chicago’s first draft pick. As Eminem walked out on the stage, he cried out “We were just there! We should’ve stayed!”

“We just left because my friend was wearing shorts. We should have been there to see Em come out though,” said Bellentine, 54, who lives on Six Mile.

“We had a great time. Detroit did an outstanding job putting it on. Maybe they could have better prepared with crowd control. We saw some issues as we were leaving but nothing serious. Our city isn’t coming back, it’s been back. I hope people come more often.”

'It's worth being up front'

Mary, 30, and Nolan Thomas, 33, moved to Detroit from Tennessee last year and had been waiting in their front row spots for the draft to start since noon. They first arrived downtown at 9 a.m. to make sure they were among the first to enter the venue.

"It's worth being up front," Mary said. "We'll be in a nursing home next time this happens."

Nolan grew up in Detroit and said the city has changed and gotten a lot nicer.

Marc and Juanita Rangel traveled from Kansas City and were eager to see who their respective teams, the Steelers and the Cowboys, picked in round one. While the couple has accepted they will always root for different teams, they still enjoy getting dressed up and attending the draft together. Marc wore a black and yellow striped suit with a Steelers sombrero while Juanita sported a sequined Cowboys dress with matching boots and a hat.

"We attended the draft last year and … you know she had such a good time, we had a good time, we wanted to come back," Marc said.

It was the couple's first time in Detroit and they finished the 11 hour drive late Wednesday. They had spent some time at Hollywood Casino in Greektown and then traveled over the border to Little Caesars in Windsor.

"This is the first time that we've been to Detroit or even to Michigan, so we've had a blast," Marc said. "It's exciting to be here, I'm looking forward to some offensive line help this year."

Buffalo Bills mafia members Ashleigh Dopp, 41, and Joanie Dekoker, 67, were feeling excited and hopeful that their team may move up a few spots in the draft and pick up some good receivers.

The pair is familiar with Detroit after attending back-to-back Bills games at Ford Field when they were snowed out of their own stadium in 2022.

"We actually truly love Detroit. They're very welcoming, similar to Buffalo," Dopp said.

Dekoker, who goes by Mama J and has attended 222 consecutive Bills games, has been to at least four NFL drafts before.

Big Sean gives big shoutout

Big Sean, a Detroit rapper whose real name is Sean Anderson, opened the NFL Draft Theater with his song “Paradise,” saying “Detroit is the greatest city on the planet.” He wore a black Lions Aidan Hutchinson jersey and jeans.

“I see everyone repping real hard, but you gotta understand Dan Campbell went from an 0-16 season to the NFC championship. That in itself deserves respect,” Big Sean said to the crowd, who cheered for the beloved coach.

Campbell played on the Lions team that went 0-16 in 2008-09.

“I know a lot people’s lives are gonna change tonight… to work so hard only to see the pursuit of happiness come true," Big Sean said. "We appreciate you and let’s celebrate.”

Big Sean proceeded to perform 30 minutes of his biggest hits with snippets of every reference in his music when he mentions Detroit.

He subtly commented that the crowd may not be his biggest fans but he hoped everyone has a good time.

Some in the theater area were screaming, cheering for his performance, while most of the crowd stood still keeping their spots for the 8 p.m. first pick moment.

“He was as great as he usually is, always reppin' the city proudly. But you can tell a lot of the crowd isn’t from here and isn’t here for a concert, which is why we came,” said Liz Londo, from Taylor.

Father and son reunited

Fans packed in behind the NFL Draft Theatre to catch a glimpse of their teams' picks hours before the first round was scheduled to start.

While the majority clearly favored the Detroit Lions, some, like Tommy McCormick, wore the New England Patriots' red, white and blue. McCormick flew into Detroit from Denver to meet his father and see who the Patriots pick with the No. 3 overall selection.

"My dad and I, we've always watched it like growing up and now every year I'll go home for it to watch it with him, and this year we decided we wanted to meet up in Detroit," said McCormick, 25, who was seeing the draft for the first time in person.

Des Moines native Harold Otis knew he had to take his son Creighton out to see the draft after the pair traveled to Kansas City last year and got hooked. They sported matching Philadelphia Eagles jackets and glasses and had staked out front-row spots to view the Draft Theatre.

"Last year, we went to Kansas City, which is only two hours away, … so we got a little taste of the draft then," Otis said. "The city's definitely well taken care of and looking clean, so definitely enjoying the time here."

Draft stage becomes a magnet

At Hart Plaza, guests packed in to see the Vince Lombardi Trophy, while there were lines for local businesses selling food, for seeing Super Bowl rings and for taking photos with mannequins dressed in new uniforms.

Little Caesars has its own stage, and Rocket Mortgage has a mock Dream Home set up.

Between Hart Plaza and Campus Martius are three large television screens for fans to watch the stage production just a half mile down the way.

By 6 p.m., herds of people started flocking to the NFL Draft stage in Cadillac Square where Detroit Rapper Big Sean was set to perform.

Getting a draft experience

Just like the pros, fans could test their skills in throwing, jumping and 40-yard dash competitions at the Hart Plaza draft experience. Several linked up to take photos with the Vince Lombardi trophy and view over 50 past Super Bowl rings that were on display.

They could also take their own mock draft photos on stage, shop for swag and sample food and drinks from places like Brome modern eatery, M Cantina and La Mara cuisine.

Minnesota Vikings fan Tabb Lonergan made the eight-hour drive Wednesday night down to Detroit from Gwinn, a small town in the Upper Peninsula. He lived in Metro Detroit for about 10 years but moved back to the UP in 2015.

He is looking forward to attending next year's draft in Green Bay, a significantly shorter drive for him compared with Detroit.

'Definitely a new Detroit'

Arielle Joyner, owner of Joyner Juicery on Woodward in Midtown, saw steady business on the first day of the draft event.

She’s expecting a busier Friday and Saturday so she’s extended hours and offering 25% off purchases.

The Detroit native said events like this are “really changing the perception people had of Detroit.”

“It definitely drives traffic, which is really awesome,” Joyner added. “Detroit has been expanding and bringing a lot of jobs. … It’s definitely a new Detroit.”

Hookah owner tries to cash in

Crowds and crowds of fans, many clad in Lions gear, trekked down Woodward Avenue at 5:30 p.m. Thursday to make it to the draft event downtown.

Tony Biggs, owner of my Hookah 2Go on Woodward in Midtown, watched as the QLine continuously filled and emptied with folks.

“Look at all of these people getting off of this QLine that right there smells and spells money,” Biggs said. “It’s a continuous steady flow of traffic.”

He expanded his hours to open at 3 p.m. instead of 7 p.m.

“I took time off my regular job to be here for this,” Biggs said. “I’ll be here until midnight.”

Draft entry gets congested

Around 5:15 p.m., the NFL One Pass reported that Draft Entry 2 on Griswold "is exceptionally congested and causing delays."

The app advised fans to try Draft Entry 1 or Entry 3 instead.

Captain Fan Man draws crowd

Plenty of Lions fans mingling in the Draft Experience area were looking to get a quick photo with Terrell Autrey, 47, a Lions loyalist who goes by Captain Fan Man and was decked out in a jersey, helmet, heavyweight Lions belt and a shield.

Autrey, a Detroiter who’s been a season ticket holder for a decade, said he had confidence that Lions General Manager Brad Holmes would make the right picks for his team.

“He’s a genius,” Autrey said, and isn’t afraid to make decisive decisions. Captain Fan Man said he hopes his team can snag a defensive star or two preferably a high-quality defensive end.

As the crowds moved around him Thursday, Autrey said the only event he’s seen in Detroit that compares is the 2006 Super Bowl, where he recalls cheering for star Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jerome Bettis.

“That was like the closest ever to this,” he said. “But this is a nice environment. I like the way it’s going. I was here about nine in the morning. I’m staying here until the draft is over. I hope we move up.”

Captain Fan Man said he’s been looking forward to this weekend for a long time.

“Everyone who knows me knows I’m a Lions fan. Every time someone ask me (about the draft), I just start laughing and giggling,” he said. “But yes, this is very big for me and a lot of lions fans. This is huge.”

Corktown getting some fans

On Woodward Avenue, food trucks have stationed overnight in parking lots in front of QLine stops, with lines of people. Groups of people, almost all representing blue Lions jerseys, were walking south to the action near the draft stage.

The opposite was happening in Corktown, where merchants hoped to benefit from a spillover of fans from downtown. Businesses had set up under tents leading up to the Corner Ballpark, the former Tigers Stadium where PAL is hosting free kid-friendly events.

Friends, Max Polston and Truman McCormick, both 13 from Grand Haven, traveled with their parents to Detroit Thursday for the festivities. They said the enjoyed the PAL activities most so far.

“We got to try on the Lions new helmets and uniforms. And try on a full football player uniform, which was heavy,” said Polston. “And we played flag football, which was fun. We’re hoping to see some players today. I hope J.J. McCarthy (Michigan quarterback) doesn’t get picked in the first round. I want him for us.”

McCarthy was picked 10th overall by the Minnesota Vikings.

Police presence felt

In downtown Detroit, people can be seen walking around the federal courthouse, making their way to the coney islands and Campus Martius. Some visitors could be heard looking at their Google maps, and noticing the city’s map uniquely has been updated into a 3D visual.

Detroit police officers were issuing several orange parking tickets in zones where no parking signs are posted for the event. Helicopters can be heard above and ambulances from a distance.

The police presence is heavy — on foot, horseback, blocking streets. Police Chief James White has said no officer is being given a day off during the three-day draft.

Officers have set up a lot of security checkpoints and metal detectors on sidewalks well beyond the Draft Experience fence.

A tailgate for 32 teams

Excitement not felt since the Lions' home playoff victory against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in late January coursed through the streets of downtown ahead of Thursday's first round draft selection.

It felt like a tailgate for all 32 teams as children clad in Chicago Bears and Pittsburgh Steelers jerseys tossed the ball around with others representing the Honolulu blue and Buccaneer red in the shadow of the Spirit of Detroit statue, decked out in a custom NFL Draft jersey himself.

The line to take a photo in the NFL clock wound down Woodward Avenue as the final hours ticked by. Fans had already staked out prime spots at the barricades directly behind the Draft Theatre at the Monroe Street Midway lot, with some arriving to stand in line as early as 5 a.m.

Some fans, like Steve and Dana Freeman, traveled all the way from Fort Payne, Alabama, to watch the Bears make the first pick on the draft. While Steve grew up in Alabama, his grandfather is from Chicago and he latched onto the Bears at an early age.

The pair drove roughly 700 miles to Detroit on Wednesday on the back of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

"We got up early yesterday morning and just took off, it took us 11 and a half hours to get here," Steve, 49, said.

Detroit isn't their first draft experience, but Steve said it was different compared to previous years in Las Vegas and Nashville. It's his and Dana's first time visiting the city.

"I love the architecture and everything around here, everything's been amazing. It's actually a lot better than what we thought it was going to be," Steve said. "As we started walking around, we just loved all the buildings and all the people who've been amazing, everybody's really friendly."

One eatery seeing slow business

George Antonopoulos, owner of Athens Souvlaki Greek and American restaurant inside the Penobscot Building with an entrance off Fort Street, said his business was down 50% every day this week, including the draft kick-off day on Thursday.

Antonopoulos’ main customers are office employees, and many of them were told to stay home during draft week.

He’s planning to extend his hours from closing at 3 p.m. to closing at 10 p.m., hoping more crowds come in later.

“We’ve been telling people that we're gonna stay late all day, I have three chalkboards … telling people to come in. I passed out fliers earlier this week,” Antonopoulos said “What else can I do?”

'Everybody's been awesome'

Even local residents were representing different teams.

Plymouth native Jacob Sanchez, 21, inherited his love for the Green Bay Packers from his family in the Upper Peninsula. He arrived downtown at 7:30 a.m. to make sure he was first through the gates and could stake out a good spot near the back of the Draft Theatre.

"The draft only comes around once in a lifetime, twice if you're lucky," said Sanchez, who wore a classic Wisconsin cheese head hat.

Each team selects around 15 lucky inner circle fans to watch the draft from inside the theater. Several of these fans are draft veterans, such as friends and Minnesota Vikings fans Tali Roberts and Jonathan Newman from Nashville. While the two weren't selected for the inner circle this year, they stuck to their Vikings roots and made the eight-hour drive out to Detroit anyway.

The pair stood out from the crowd with full Viking face paint, braids, horned helmets and furry boots. Several passersby even stopped them for photos.

This is Roberts' fourth draft but her first time in Detroit. Other than the Vikings, the camaraderie is what brings the pair out to the draft every year.

"Everybody's been awesome," said Roberts, 56. "All of us being together — it only happens in Canton (Ohio, where the Hall of Fame is located) and at the draft, where all the teams are at the same place, that's why I love it."

Captain Seahawks draws gawkers

Wallace Watts, better known by the moniker Captain Seahawk, couldn't help but draw attention walking around downtown in a bedazzled green suit, white wig and seahawk hat. He is one of the Hawks' inner circle fans, along with Cammie Watts, who goes by Cam Hawk while in her own glittery costume and pink Seahawks hat.

The pair have been attending drafts for the last five years and remarked on how well-represented Lions fans were in the crowd Thursday afternoon. Cammie has never been to Detroit but said she's loving it so far. Her favorite part of the draft is sharing the love of football with everyone.

"What would we do if we didn't have football? What if we didn't have that excitement in our life?" Watts, 55, said.

'Deli sees 'really steady' business

Danny Zaghir, owner of Frank’s Deli inside the Buhl Building on Griswold near the draft entrance, said business on Thursday afternoon was “really steady.”

He put a chalkboard sign on Griswold to get new guests inside.

“We have had a lot new faces. We’ve had our regular customers, too, but most of them are working from home,” Zaghir said. “This weekend we are definitely relying on the people coming for the draft. And they haven’t disappointed.”

The New York style deli, which also sells grocery items, extended its hours to close at 11 p.m. for the big event.

“We doubled up on all of our food,” Zaghir said. “We try to be as low-cost as possible.”

Cowboy loves fellow fans

Cowboys inner circle fan and Austin native Mateo Franco, 47, estimated he's been to at least 12 NFL drafts. Franco, a former bull rider himself, wore Cowboys chaps and an oversized cowboy hat to support his team.

For him, the best part of the draft is the fans. It presents a unique opportunity for fans from all 32 teams to get along.

"Football is family. Yeah, family is fun. And this community right here doesn't get any better than that," Franco said.

Three teams, one bond

Fans from across the country flocked to downtown Detroit for the draft event on Thursday.

Joe Walker, 43, of Scranton, Pennsylvania; Rich Aston, 52, of San Antonio, Texas; and David Johnson, 43, of Chicago, all drove hours to make it to opening day of the draft.

All three are supporting different teams, but were together enjoying Detroit and the draft festivities. They had no difficulties traveling into the city.

Johnson, a Bears fan, said “there's hardly no traffic compared to Chicago.”

Walker’s cheering for the Dallas Cowboys and “hoping they pick the best player available.”

Aston, who drove 19 hours from Texas to hang out with his friends on draft day, wants his Pittsburgh Steelers to pick players for “some O-line help," referring to the offensive line.

Food trucks get deluged

Orlando Washington, who runs the food truck BRO-rritos Burritos and Tacos, had a brief lull in customers streaming to and from from the Draft Experience on Thursday afternoon. He said he expected the crowd sizes downtown would be so large in the coming days “we’ll probably never see it again.”

“I’m just glad I can contribute and help feed the hungry (fans),” said the native Detroiter.

He figures it could easily be the best couple days of the year, sales-wise, for his truck.

”I think it’s just phenomenal. I mean, it’s like we’re nonstop already. We probably haven’t seen the worst yet … or the best,” Washington said, laughing.

Many food trucks like Washington’s already had long lines around the downtown draft zone Thursday afternoon. Restaurants and exclusive draft parties, many with their own security, also were rapidly filling with hours still to go before the Chicago Bears are scheduled to make the first pick after 8 p.m.

Pot, art merchants fight for fans

Marijuana companies weren’t missing their chance to advertise to the out-of-towners, sponsoring some of the parties — and advertising on billboard box trucks with big screens that were rolling around downtown, and on airplanes pulling banners overhead.

The company Leaf and Bud, which claims to be Detroit’s biggest dispensary, had both the ground and air covered with ads.

Other vendors were hawking everything from candy, to cheap sunglasses to wooden sculptures and other types of art imported from Senegal.

Mbaye Niang, who runs Niang African Art, usually positions his wares under a tent in Campus Martius Park. But that spot is overtaken with the draft stage area, so Niang shifted to the corner of Park and Woodward avenues to try his luck with the NFL fans, who were queuing to enter the draft party nearby.

Niang acknowledged there was a stark contrast between the typical customer interested in African art and the fans dressed in various colorful team jerseys. But he remained hopeful that many would have their interest piqued, perhaps as they headed for home or back to their hotels later in the day.

“I like the vibe that it brings,” said Niang, 42, who has lived in Detroit more than two decades, about the draft.

Still, he said it’s important that it’s not a one-off advertising event for the city. Longer-term investments need to be made, including in downtown, which Niang still noted has many empty buildings.

“Monday, Tuesday it’s going to go back to normal … when you take all these banners down, and all this, then we go back to normal,” Niang said. “So invest in the city first. Bring things, and in the people who work here, like the everyday Detroiters. You see what I’m saying? And then you can advertise all you want, and bring all the people back.”

He added: “Don’t just put up a big show and then tomorrow you close everything back up and … it’s a ghost town.”

Traffic crawling on I-94

Four hours before the draft's start, hundreds of cars packed Interstate 94 and the Lodge Freeway leading into downtown. Two rear-end accidents were assisted by Michigan State Police. Those heading into the city should expect at least 45 minutes for traffic congestion on I-94.

Authorities were also monitoring traffic above I-94 Cecil Avenue where cars slowed down to take photos and look at the new D-E-T-R-O-I-T gateway sign.

Taking earlier exits like Warren, school-aged kids could be seen dressed in NFL gear, waiting for Detroit Department of Transportation buses at stops to get downtown. Traffic is dense, especially in the university district.In Midtown, there were no visible visitors in the museum district around 4 p.m.

Traffic on I-375 south leading into downtown was backed up at a dead stop for at least a half-mile at 4:30 p.m.

Sticker shock for parking

Big events usually mean jacked-up parking prices in Detroit, and Thursday was no exception.

Most parking lots in downtown are charging $100. One on Gratiot was charging $70.

'So far, so good'

Anita's Kitchen on Jefferson Avenue is having a "so far, so good" experience, General Manager Lauren Peterson said Thursday afternoon.

“We’ve had a lot of walk-ins, a lot of people eating before they go in. It's been really steady, not like crazy wild. Everyone’s been pretty controlled," Peterson said.

The restaurant is opening an outdoor patio food booth for fans Thursday-Saturday since it’s right by the entrance to the draft day events.

The fast-casual eatery with “an authentic Lebanese flair,” will have falafel, gyro pita, and shawarma sandwiches, fries and wings available at the patio from 3 p.m to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday.

Day trip to Detroit

Some Metro Detroiters drove downtown to embrace the unique experience of having the draft in the city.

Howell resident Dylan Matovski and his son Emerson, 12, took a day trip to Detroit. Matovski said that since the draft is in Detroit for the first time, he “just wanted to experience it” with his son.

“With the Lions being better now, it’s great to see the city enjoying that success and a lot of people coming out to just enjoy the nice weather and the experience,” he said.

Emerson, who plays on his local football team, said he might want to do the 40 yard-dash or the vertical jump in the NFL D, which are activities that draft visitors can partake in.

The Ramirez family, who are Chicago Bears fans, traveled to Detroit from Visalia, California, for the draft. The family had a layover in Dallas-Fort Worth Airport a few days ago, but they got stuck there because their flight to Detroit was canceled, said father Bosco Ramirez, 40. They spent a day and a half in Dallas, taking the opportunity to sightsee and try some Texas barbeque.

Ramirez’s mother, who lives in Saline, went with the family to the draft on Thursday. Ramirez said he’s “excited” about the draft. The Bears have the No. 1 pick, and he said the consensus is that the team will choose USC quarterback Caleb Williams.

“I mean it’s a great draft to go to if you’re a Bears fan, obviously,” he said. “We have two top 10 picks.”

Duggan welcomes fans, media

Speaking to reporters early Thursday afternoon, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said the people who are here "know this is a dramatically different city,"

"Everybody last summer who came to town for different conferences all said the same thing to me: 'Oh my God, this wasn't what I expected' or 'when did the riverfront get here?' or 'when did all these restaurants open up?' This draft feels important because you can't explain what's going on in Detroit, you have to experience it. 

"It's all part of changing our image," said Duggan, who has been invited by the Lions to announce one of their three Draft picks on Saturday. "Never thought I'd see the day I'd wake up and see two positive stories about Detroit in the New York Times. That hasn't happened in my lifetime.

"This is what we hope for," he said, "to reintroduce ourselves to the country."

Fans line up for fan experience

Hundreds of people were lined up late Thursday morning at Entry 2 on Griswold to enter the NFL Fan Experience.

The crowd included many Lions fans, sporting Honolulu blue jerseys or other Lions merchandise. Fans of other teams were interspersed within the sea of Lions faithful, including people supporting the Miami Dolphins, Pittsburgh Steelers, Chicago Bears and the Green Bay Packers. And some represented the University of Michigan, wearing UM hats or sweatshirts, apparently in honor of potential draftees quarterback J.J. McCarthy and running Blake Corum, among others.

Rachael Clapper of Fowlerville, near Lansing, was waiting in line with her eight-year-old daughter, Macklynn. Clapper wore a blue and green sweatshirt, and Macklynn had on Seattle Seahawks-themed face paint. Clapper said Captain SeaHawk and Kam Hawk — who are well-known Seahawks fans — are in Detroit for the draft, so she and her daughter wanted to meet them. They also came to the draft for the “whole experience.”

“We’re missing football big time,” Clapper said, “so this is kind of aiding in that.”

They’re just here for the day, and she said the drive to Detroit “was fantastic.” They took U.S. 23 and M-14. 

Steady stream of travelers at DTW

Hours ahead of the action, a steady stream of travelers in NFL jerseys poured into Detroit Metro Airport on Thursday morning.

Allie Goodman, of Naples, Florida, said she’d been looking forward to the draft ever since making travel arrangements in January after the Pro Bowl.

“We want to see all around Detroit,” said Goodman, 33. “We’re just looking forward to seeing our super fan friends, and obviously we want to welcome our draft picks.”

Bearing a construction hard hat modified with Miami Dolphins regalia in full aqua, blue, orange and white, Goodman said she was excited to explore Detroit for the first time and hopefully see Eminem perform.

The couple considered themselves hardcore Dolphins fans, having already traveled to see the 2022 NFL Draft in Las Vegas, NFL games in London and even a Super Bowl, said Jared Goodman, 34.

A love for both Detroit and Washington Commanders brought Marcus Ellis into the city on Thursday morning from D.C., the 47-year-old fan told The News.

Ellis had visited Detroit several times before, but was looking forward to seeing the downtown transformation that had been lighting up his social media, he said.

Seeing the draft in person had always been a bucket list experience Ellis hoped to accomplish, he added.

Now was the perfect time to see that vision through, he said.

“I’m hoping to see my team get the best pick possible,” Ellis said. “That is the primary reason why I’m here, to bring us some D.C. luck. I’m going to enjoy food, the sights, the music, the people — everything that Detroit brings.”

Seeing the draft in person was also a longtime bucket list item for 9-year-old Jared Soriano, the Minnesota Vikings fan said.

Soriano, of Farmington, Minnesota, has been watching NFL football games since he was a baby and can now recite near-encyclopedic knowledge of the sport, his 22-year-old sister, Emma Melendez, said.

The siblings planned to make a ton of memories out of their time together, said Melendez, of Rosemount, Minnesota.

Soriano said he felt thrilled to visit Detroit for the first time and see his favorite team up close.

“I’ve kind of been bragging about it,” he said, adding that he also plays wide receiver on his football team.

He only hoped the team didn’t make “a dumb decision” by picking University of Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy, Soriano said.

Other young fans were also making their way through the arrivals section in the airport, including 10-year-old Liam Powell in stride with his cousins, aunt and mother.

Powell, of Rosemount, Minnesota, had been looking forward to making the trip with his dad for a long time, said his mother, Jolina Pettice.

Pettice, her sister and nephews were happy to step in when Powell’s father sustained a last-minute injury that prevented him from traveling, said Pettice, 41.

Originally from Illinois, Pettice said she was excited to see the Chicago Bears get the first draft pick.

Powell was especially excited for the opportunity to see pro players up close, he said.

“It’s always been on my bucket list,” he said.

Also arriving at the airport, Cowboys fan John Stewart and his father were looking forward to being in Detroit even if just for one day, the 18-year-old Dallas traveler said.

Stewart said he has always been interested in working with NFL one day, so he jumped at the chance to catch a glimpse behind the scenes this week, he said.

Philip Cole, 61, was excited to revisit Detroit after a long time away, the Kansas City, Missouri resident said.

Cole had a chance to see the draft when it was hosted in his native city last year, he said. More than football festivities, Cole said he was excited to see how events panned out in Detroit’s new landscape.

“Looking at the city at its best,” Cole said of his wishes while visiting. “Checking out downtown and all the new development in Detroit.”

Robert Pike, 70, said he was also happy to be back in Detroit again.

Pike, of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, is a lifelong Detroit Lions and Red Wings fan, he said.

Coming to the city this weekend with his nephew, Pike was eager to check out the NFL draft layout across the city after visiting many times before for Red Wings games, he said. “I’m really excited about it."

Staff Writers Marnie Munoz and Anne Snabes contributed.

15 Tips to Make Traveling With Family More Fun & Less Stressful

Posted: July 4, 2023 | Last updated: July 4, 2023

Traveling with your brood is the time to make memories. Sure, you will encounter moments where you start to question why you ever leave the house in the first place, but ideally you should enjoy the experience as much as your children. Smart and useful family travel tips can make all the difference between a grueling and exhaustive excursion and a wonderful, relaxing getaway.

For Expert Family Travel Advice: Go Straight to the Source

For medical advice, you seek out a doctor. For educational advice, you turn to teachers. For family travel advice, head straight for the moms. They are the experts who know what works and what doesn't when it comes to setting out on adventures with kids in tow. They have tried it all, discovered the best family travel hacks, and have zero qualms about sharing their experiences with other moms ready to embark on trips with kiddos.

Debbie Dubrow is one of those "traveling moms" who has spent much of her children's lives packing up suitcases, loading up kids, and setting out to see the world. The Seattle-based mother of three shares her personal travel stories and best family travel tips with other parents ready to hit the road on her blog, Delicious Baby .

Beginner Traveler? Start Small

If you are new to the idea of traveling with children, Dubrow suggests you start small. Take your family on a smaller, local day trip and test drive your tips and hacks while being close enough to home to pull the trigger and abort the mission if necessary. Don't become discouraged if your first few local expeditions are a flop. Reflect on what worked and what didn't, make adjustments and try it again! A few trips to nearby locales will help build your confidence so you can easily transition into bigger getaways soon enough. Dubrow offers, "Most parents are pleasantly surprised to find that their worst-case-scenarios don't come true, and that they even enjoy the experience."

Pay Extra Attention to Planning

Once upon a time, you packed a bag, bought a plane ticket on the fly, and ventured out to see the world. Now that you have kids, and kids have needs, and spontaneity is as distant a memory as sleep is, you'll want to spend extra time in the planning stages of the trip . The more work you put in on the front end, the less thinking you will have to do once vacation begins.

Work Within a Budget

Vacationing with kids can get pricey, so work within a previously agreed-upon budget when planning your next getaway. Letting expenses get away from you will instantly create stress, so staying in the anticipated price range will make it easier for you to relax and enjoy. Anticipate and plan for a few unexpected expenses too.

Spend Time Scoring the Right Accommodations

There are plenty of ways to cut corners and save a dollar during travel, but if you are vacationing with several children or young children, your lodging accommodations should not be one of them. Your days will be long and action-packed, so your home base needs to be a space of reprieve, your little temporary sanctuary.

Find a family-friendly hotel or rented home that fits most of your family's needs. If you are traveling somewhere hot, be sure there is air conditioning or working fans in your accommodation. If you will need to do laundry, check and see if those facilities are on property or nearby. Look into whether the room or rental is baby-proofed and whether it has a mini-fridge and microwave for all of those snacking needs.

It is a good idea to make a room "wish list" and then scour the net and read reviews to see which accommodation best suits you (and your budget!). There will undoubtedly be a few accommodation must-haves when traveling with children that you don't want to compromise on. Know what they are and make sure they are available to you before booking.

Adjust Your Travel Pace

Another tip Dubrow emphasizes to parents taking the travel plunge is to adjust the travel pace to best suit their children. Kids find joy in the most minor of details, so allow them to experience these travel days at their leisure. You might be used to packing in eight to ten hours of sights in a big city, but should you try to apply the vacationing pace of yesteryear to travel with kids, you are likely going to fizzle out fast. Dubrow elaborates, "Avoid trying to go at the same pace you did before you had children. Slow down and give your baby or toddler time to enjoy things at their level. They might be looking at the marble floors in the Vatican instead of the arches and artwork, and that is OK."

Decide beforehand what you really want to do with the kids. Think about if it will be of interest to them and if they will be able to make it through whatever it is you are hoping to do on vacation. Build in plenty of snack breaks or a mid-day siesta or rest period, so children don't become overly tired, cranky, and downright miserable. Pack your patience-pants, as this new, slower pace of seeing the world might be a bit of an adjustment for you.

Load Up on Water and Snacks

Throughout her journeys, Dubrow discovered the power of snacks. Snacks can pretty much fix anything at a moment's notice, and you don't want to be without them. Pack items that are easy to eat while on the go and make sure they aren't loaded with sugar. Choose grain or protein-based items to give kids energy without the dreaded sugar crash looming ahead. She also reminds parents that airplanes no longer provide the delectables of days past. Small snacks and beverages are typically offered, but if you have picky eaters or children with specific dietary needs, pack plenty of your own nibbles for a lengthy flight.

Get Travel Paperwork in Order

If you are flying or planning to leave your home country, be sure that all pertinent travel documents are ready and in order. Large families mean lots of passports, boarding passes and more. Sort and organize what you can. Place a small sticky note with family members' initials on the back of all passports and slip boarding passes into them. Place a rubber band around each travel packet, so when a name is called upon, you can quickly grab the documents you need in the moment.

For families needing to get passports , be sure that you do so well ahead of time to receive them before you leave for your trip. Obtaining passports can be tedious, and nothing will ruin a family vacation faster than one family member being left without proper travel documentation.

Make Emergency Plans

When it comes to vacation, you want to think about lounging around a pool or hiking through breathtaking forests... not about losing track of your kid! Not being able to locate your child is every parent's worst nightmare, and while it is something you don't even want to contemplate, it is best to have a plan in place for this type of emergency. Sit your kids down and discuss the plan for if someone becomes lost or strays from the group during travel. Older kids should have the means to contact parents, or at the very least know their parents' phone numbers. Write parents' names, kids' names, and contact numbers inside a shoe for little children. Be sure everyone understands how to get help in the event that they find themselves alone in a foreign space.

Be Prepared for Every Eventuality When Flying With Kids

Imagine being stuffed in a small airplane with a crying child who is bored to tears or covered head to toe in apple juice (or worse) and still having several hours of air travel to go. That's the stuff nightmares are made of, and a bit of thought and preparation in this department can make all the difference. Aside from packing drinks and snacks on a flight, be sure to pack several entertainment options for kids. Great ideas are:

• Coloring books and crayons
• Electronic devices
• Games galore - both word games and paper games
• Downloaded movies and shows
• Comfort toys

Aside from entertainment options, you will want to pack a change of clothes in your carry-on. The only thing worse than having a kid get sick or have an accident while flying the friendly skies is having nothing to change them into. Toss the following into your carry-on so you are never left high and dry (or rather high and soaking wet).

• Extra undies, pants, and shirt
• Lots of disinfectant wipes and a small towel
• Pajamas if you are traveling long distances through the night
• A plastic, sealable bag for soiled clothing
• Remember to pack a first aid kit and a car seat for plane and car travel

Be a Perfect Packer

Packing for a fun family trip comes with a bit of a learning curve unless you know how to do it properly right out of the gate! Parents tend to pack in one of two ways: overpacking and underpacking. They either take along everything they can think of and then curse themselves throughout the entire trip for spending more time acting as a family pack mule than enjoying a well-deserved vacation, or they bring next to nothing and spend more time scouring the earth for those forgotten necessities than they do relaxing.

You want to strike a packing balance. Try making a list of things you need several weeks before you depart. Next, revisit your list and remove items you think you can live without. Add a few new items that you skipped over the first time around. Consider what items your accommodations might have readily available. Many rental spaces have cribs, cots, and even high chairs for families to borrow, meaning you don't have to lug that stuff with you. If your accommodations have easily accessible laundry facilities, then pack half the clothes you originally planned on taking and spend a few hours mid-vacation doing laundry (maybe while the tots take an afternoon nap).

Know When to Schedule Flight Times

If you are flying with little ones, you might want to schedule your flight during nap time or during the evening hours. This is particularly important if you have a long journey ahead of you. A few hours of snooze time can make all the difference to a family stuck in the air for several hours. Furthermore, pay attention to your layover times. It is much harder to rush through a busy airport to catch a connecting flight with three kids, two strollers, and several carry-on bags in hand.

Be Flexible and Realistic

Planning is a beautiful thing, but so is flexibility. Again, balance is the key to travel happiness, especially when kids are involved. Yes, you want the major details hammered out before you take off for fun and adventure, but you also need to remember that things happen, plans unravel, and you need to be able to pivot, recover and carry on. Expect some bumps in the road, know when to make alterations in vacation plans to suit everyone's needs, and let go of any preconceived notions that every minute of the trip will be downright magical.

Don't Forego Routine

Sure, this is vacation, and routines will vary simply due to the nature of the beast, but travel doesn't have to mean nixing all routines and structure. Kids thrive on the routines you have created for them. They help keep them safe and healthy. While plenty of routine aspects will shift during travel, keep the ones you can in place. Try to eat and sleep near the times you would typically eat and sleep at home. If you do a daily rest or nap time, see if you can swing that same routine while vacationing. If you throw the kids completely out of whack, you will soon learn that a no-rules vacation is a no-fun vacation for parents.

Establish Spending Rules Pre-Vacation

Rules. Kids don't love them, but they are necessary on so many levels. Traveling with kids means taking the littles past countless souvenir and trinket stations and stores. Get ready for your children to beg you for every little, shiny piece of whatever catches their eye. They will cry and whine for everything they see; you will stress and maybe cry a little too as you attempt to stay calm while explaining that no, they cannot have another Beanie Boo.

Set rules for souvenirs ahead of time. Maybe they get one small thing at the airport and one thing at your vacation destination. Maybe you give each kid an allotted amount of spending money and how and where they spend it is up to them. Make rules that work for your children and your budget, and be sure everyone understands those rules ahead of vacation to minimize the stress that comes along with kids begging for everything.

Don't Put Off Travel Plans

Lastly, don't put off your travel plans because you are afraid of failure. Yes, everyone will be older and wiser in a few years, but life happens, circumstances constantly change, and you never know if this travel opportunity will circle back around. Take those vacations with the little kids or the angsty teens. Make the memories, spend the money, and know that the kids won't be kids forever. Remember, parts of your vacation may flop, but other parts will be amazing. In the end, you will likely be so glad you went for it and traveled with your kids.

Family Vacation Memories to Cherish

Travel is all about the adventure of life and being together in a wonderful new time and space. Use tips to reduce stress, but know that the greatest advice you can receive is to be in the moment and try to enjoy your family vacation no matter what. Kids won't remember every detail of every vacation they took during their childhood, but they'll treasure the memories of how they felt spending time together as a family in a fun-filled environment.

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Protect Your Trip »

The 10 best cruises for teens in 2024.

The best cruises for teens provide the right mix of autonomy and time with family.

The Best Cruises for Teens

Amy Smith | Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Teen spaces on cruise ships foster friendships through games, music, events and more.

Cruises make the perfect family vacation, especially when traveling with teens. Teens can mix and mingle with others their age in teens-only clubs, play games, listen to music, or grab a pizza and watch a movie under the stars. If your tweens and teens need more action-packed fun to keep them entertained, some cruise ships act like floating amusement parks with zip lines, racetracks, roller coasters, ice skating rinks, laser tag, waterslides and more.

The following lines offer the best cruises for teens and tweens, along with their parents.

Find your perfect cruise

MSC Cruises

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers plenty of family fun and activities for teens on its ships, including sports tournaments, waterslides and a family disco. On select ships, you'll also find the full-size MSC Formula Racer simulator, an interactive XD cinema, a virtual reality experience, zip lines and an arcade room. The Young Club programming by MSC Cruises offers daily activities for 12- to 14-year-old tweens, while teens 15 to 17 can participate in sports and dance competitions as well as video game tournaments at the Teen Club. Older kids can also participate in fun themed events, karaoke, piloting practice at the Drone Academy and flash mobs – and there's a teens-only disco.

On MSC Seascape , teens can stay busy in three new concept spaces. "Future" features a state-of-the-art technology area with the latest-generation consoles, VR and video screens for hours of entertainment. "Chill Out" is just as it sounds – a place to hang out, chat, and play foosball and pingpong. Meanwhile, "Music" is a dance club where kids can choose their own tunes and dance the night away with cool lighting and sound effects. If all that isn't enough, Robotron, the first of its kind at sea, is an amusement park-like ride that combines the thrill of a roller coaster with personalized music and lighting.

MSC World Europa boasts the largest and most engaging kids area in the fleet with an impressive 8,245 square feet of action-packed space. The new Teens Lab features an immersive area for teenagers with more than 20 of the latest consoles, seven VR stations and dozens of video games. Drone Academy 2.0 is a high-energy relay race for drones. There's even more onboard fun at Z Active, a sports program that offers basketball, football and zorb ball alongside two firsts for the line – pickleball and hoverboards. Teens can also take a spin on the bumper cars at the MSC Sportplex.

MSC Euribia – the line's newest ship, which set sail on its inaugural cruise in June 2023 – has a total of 7,500-plus square feet of space dedicated to kids ages 0 to 17. The new Teens Club Extra Space offers three different areas: the Young Club (ages 12 to 14), the Teens Club (15 to 17) and the Teens Lab (12 to 17). Some of the activities include those found on other MSC ships, such as Z Active, Drone Academy 2.0 and the MSC Dance Crew competition. Teens will also have access to new video games; pingpong; World Quest, an interactive game show based on trivia and geography; and Caravaggio, an immersive spy game show about an art heist.

Compare  MSC Cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line boasts a teens-only venue, Entourage, which caters to young adults 13 to 17 years old. This supervised space – available on 16 of the line's 19 ships – keeps teens busy in an adults-free lounge that's filled with video games, movies, music, arts and sports. Teen counselors on Norwegian Cruise Line plan activities and challenges to keep kids entertained throughout the cruise. A list of detailed activities is available on embarkation day so teens can plan out their schedule for the cruise.

Norwegian Prima , the first vessel in the Prima class, features many first-at-sea innovations perfect for entertaining families and energetic teens, including the three-level Prima Speedway. With cars reaching up to 30 miles per hour, this quarter-mile-long racetrack is one of the highest-rated attractions on Prima. Adventurous teens will also want to check out The Drop and The Rush. Billed as the fastest slides at sea, these chutes offer thrill-seekers a heart-pumping 10-story freefall plunge.

If that's not enough action, teens can also play The Bull's Eye, a classic game of darts that uses a video tracking system, or check out Tee Time for a pumped-up version of mini-golf set against a Las Vegas backdrop. In the Galaxy Pavilion, an indoor gaming complex, you'll find more than a dozen attractions, including immersive simulator experiences, escape rooms and the Topgolf Swing Suite – all of which are unique to Norwegian Prima. When it's time to cool off, the Tidal Wave waterslide is another first for the brand, letting guests ride inner tubes to catch the surf.

Norwegian Viva, the second vessel in the Prima class, is set to launch in August 2023. As the newest ship in NCL's fleet, Viva will also feature these exciting high-tech attractions, including Viva Speedway. If you and your teens are fans of the movie "Beetlejuice," you're in for a treat: The Broadway musical adaptation will debut on the new ship.

The line's Breakaway Plus class – Norwegian Escape , Joy , Bliss and Encore – is also popular with families as these ships offer plenty of activities and attractions suited for active teens, such as go-kart tracks, outdoor laser tag and VR games in the Galaxy Pavilion.

Find  Norwegian Cruise Line deals on GoToSea .

Disney Cruise Line

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line features two cool spaces dedicated to teens and tweens, who can hang out on comfy couches, watch shows or movies, and play video games. These hangouts, called Edge (for ages 11 to 14) and Vibe (ages 14 to 17), are available on all Disney Cruise Line ships.

On Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream , the space at Vibe also features a private outdoor deck with chaise lounges, wading pools, foosball and more. While indoors, teenagers can mingle with others their age, or just kick back and relax in individual nooks. There's a dance club area for karaoke contests, talent shows and dance competitions. The trendy indoor-outdoor space – at almost 9,000 square feet – is accessible with a teens-only card or DisneyBand+. On the new Disney Wish ship, Vibe has a French twist inspired by a Paris artist's loft with neon signs and funk pop art.

For tweens sailing on Disney Fantasy or Dream, Edge is a bright, loft-style gathering spot – located in the funnel – that has individual computer stations for gaming and a massive video wall for screening television, movies and games. There's also a lit-up dance floor for dance parties. Two nifty features of the space – and its location – are views of the pool decks below as well as three portholes that allow for glimpses of the riders on the water coaster, AquaDuck, as they zoom by.

On the first night of the cruise, kids receive information on what activities and events will be available during their vacation so they can curate a personalized entertainment itinerary. Some fun options throughout the week may include "Gotcha," a game of elimination where one teen will become the ultimate victor. For a special treat – and a bit of pampering – guests ages 13 to 17 won't want to miss an afternoon at Chill Spa, located inside Senses Spa & Salon.

Book a  Disney cruise on GoToSea .

Royal Caribbean International

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

The newly updated space for teens 13 to 17 years old on Royal Caribbean International vessels is hidden behind a secret speakeasy entrance. The dedicated venue, which has a gaming lounge and music, is a cozy place to hang out to meet other teens on the ship. There's also an outdoor patio where you can relax in the sun or chill out under the stars. Teens will find planned activities throughout the day at the lounge, including sports tournaments, a nightly teen disco and themed parties.

Social 100 is an exclusive new space for ages 13 to 17 on Wonder of the Seas . The outdoor space sits next to the waterslides and boasts a hot tub, lawn games, cozy seating, a selfie area, and a bar serving zero-proof cocktails and shakes. The indoor part of Social 100 features a gaming area, foosball tables, a vending machine and more comfortable spaces for teens to mingle.

Teens have plenty of activities they can do with their families on Royal Caribbean's ships, especially on the new Icon of the Seas, the first vessel in the Icon class. Slated for its inaugural sailing in January 2024, Wonder of the Seas will be the  world's largest cruise ship .  Cruisers of all ages will have endless opportunities for fun with more venues, activities and attractions than you've ever seen on a cruise ship.

Teens and their parents will appreciate Chill Island, a three-level pool deck with the first swim-up bar at sea. The new water park, Thrill Island, boasts six waterslides, including exciting firsts at sea, such as Pressure Drop, the first open freefall slide. If that's not enough to get the adrenaline pumping, teens can check out Crown's Edge – a combination thrill ride, skywalk and ropes course – or other Royal Caribbean favorites like Adrenaline Peak, Sports Court, the FlowRider surf simulator or the reimagined mini-golf course.

If you're hanging out in the new Surfside neighborhood on Icon, a dedicated space for young families, teens will have easy access to the supervised teens-only club, Social 020, from this open-air space.

When you head ashore to Perfect Day in CocoCay, one of the best  cruise line private islands , teen cruisers will find plenty of fun land-based activities like Thrill Waterpark and 1,600-foot-long zip lines. Be sure not to miss another thrilling experience: Up, Up and Away. The helium balloon ride soars 450 feet above the ground to the highest vantage point in the Bahamas , offering incredible panoramic views of the island and surrounding turquoise waters.

Explore  Royal Caribbean cruises on GoToSea . 

Holland America Line

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Holland America Line

The Kids Club on Holland America Line offers a fun supervised program for 13- to 17-year-old guests in an adult-free zone known as The Loft. The name is in the process of changing to High Score!, and you'll already find the updated concept on Oosterdam and Eurodam . The line's other ships will change over to the new venue throughout 2024. High Score! is a family game room that serves as a secret getaway for teens by day. In the evenings, entire families can come to play skeeball, board games and join in other activities.

The teens-only space (during the day) on Holland America Line resembles a New York artists loft where kids can listen to music, watch movies, play games and meet and hang out with same-age cruisers. Programs and activities at the current space, The Loft, include themed events, karaoke, a teen disco and nighttime activities such as Poker Night and video game tournaments. Youths can also participate in pingpong, basketball and other teens-only sporting events. If they still need more entertainment to keep them busy, the Kids Club offers origami lessons and watercolor painting as well as competitions in "Mario Kart," air hockey, foosball, pinball and more.

The Kids Club is complimentary for guests. The space is open daily, and you'll also find teen events around the ship. When it comes to dining, there are many teen-friendly dining options – where teens can even enjoy mocktails like nonalcoholic mojitos – at venues throughout the ship.

If you're cruising to Alaska with Holland America or other adventure-filled destinations, look for excursions that will appeal to younger family members like zip lining tours, trail hikes, float trips, helicopter tours and wilderness safaris. Alaska is a teen favorite, especially in Skagway (one of Alaska's top destinations ), where travelers can get a thrill out of dog mushing with a team of Alaskan huskies, taking a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, or going on a rock climbing excursion.

Find  Holland America Line cruises on GoToSea .

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Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

The modern Beach House lounge is the go-to place for passengers ages 13 to 17 to socialize and meet others their age when sailing on a Princess Cruises ship. Fun activities for teens include late-night movies and tournaments where they can challenge their peers in video games or at air hockey, foosball and table tennis. For more energetic activities, join in the fun during indoor dodgeball and basketball games. Or, learn new dance moves from some of the dancers in the crew, then hit the dance floor for one of the competitions. At the "Rock the Boat Party," teenagers can dress up and party the night away with mocktails and new friends on the ship.

"Movies Under the Stars" is one of Princess' signature events. Guests can watch movies, sporting events and concerts while bundled up with cozy blankets on the pool deck outdoors. Teens will enjoy the complimentary snacks – not to mention the special movie nights designed with them in mind, such as "Scary Movie Night." You might even find teen makeovers and glitter tattoos some evenings on the ship.

The line's three newest ships – Discovery Princess , Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess – offer the most activities for teens, but all of the ships in the fleet host youth programs in partnership with Discovery, along with plenty of other family-friendly activities. These offerings include Discovery Family and Animal Planet shore excursions and onboard entertainment like "The Voice of the Ocean," a musical competition.

Parents will be able to keep track of their busy teens anywhere on the ship with the state-of-the-art Princess MedallionClass system. The quarter-size wearable medallion and accompanying app allow guests to personalize their itinerary and locate family members and friends on board.

When Sun Princess launches in February 2024, as the first vessel in the line's Sphere class, it will feature Park19. This top-deck family activity zone boasts many outdoor adventures, including Sea Breeze – the first Rollglider at sea. The ADA-accessible seated ride offers a hang-gliding experience with panoramic views of the ocean and ports of call. Families and teens can also check out the climbing obstacle course, cargo nets and lookout points. The ship also has a recreational court – which offers pingpong, shuffleboard, fitness classes and more – and a splash zone where you can cool off after all the outdoor activities.

Inside Sun Princess, tweens and teens will find two centers just for them: Neon Grove and The Underground. Both spaces offer cozy and colorful areas for young adults to hang out, socialize, and play video games on the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. They'll also find foosball, skeeball and air hockey on top of planned activities like movie nights, dance parties and scavenger hunts.

Explore  Princess Cruises on GoToSea .

Adventures by Disney

Adventures by Disney offers river and expedition cruises for the whole family; the itineraries span many choices and experiences for tweens and teens with a focus on culture, history, gastronomy and adventure. The river cruises are operated in partnership with AmaWaterways, while the expedition cruises are a collaboration with luxury French cruise line Ponant.

If you're sailing on the Adventures by Disney Rhine River Cruise itinerary, for example, guests can choose between various exciting excursions. While you're docked in Strasbourg, France , for the day, teen-friendly options include a tour of the Black Forest, complete with a toboggan run and a visit to a woodworking museum. Another choice here is to visit Germany's Europa-Park, a one-of-a-kind theme park located between the Black Forest and the Vosges Mountains. In Melk, Austria, on the Danube itinerary, families can go for a bike ride along the Danube River, hike to the castle in Dürnstein or visit a family-run apricot farm.

Another great feature of these cruises is that teens can opt to have dinner and evening get-togethers with same-age cruisers, so they don't have to dine with their parents or younger siblings every night. Adventure Guides also curate special activities for teens like game shows and pool parties.

In destinations like Antarctica, the Adriatic and the Galápagos Islands , expert naturalists lead tours during these bucket list trips. You might even find a bit of Disney storytelling woven into the presentations by the Adventure Guides.

Keep in mind if you have younger kids as well as teens that children need to be 5 or older to sail on the river cruises. For the Galápagos Islands expedition cruises, the minimum age for Junior Adventurers is 7, and for expeditions to the polar regions, kids need to be 10 years of age or older.

Read: The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Carnival Cruise Line

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Celebration, which launched in November 2022, is the line's newest Excel-class ship. It features an expanded family and youth program, including its offerings for teens. The line also rolled out the new program fleetwide in spring 2023.

The Carnival Cruise Line teen programming at Circle "C" is for tweens ages 12 to 14, while Club O2 is for ages 15 to 17. In these venues you'll find entertainment like themed dance parties – and even a Carnival prom – as well as video games, movies and karaoke. Circle "C" stands for "Cruise, chill and connect," and that's what teens can do in this colorful, contemporary space with engaging counselors. New activities include anime drawing lessons and pop culture games at Circle "C." Older teens can foster new friendships while engaging in Japanese crafts and authentic tea ceremonies at Club O2.

Teens will appreciate Carnival's onboard water park, Waterworks, which includes a splash park and slides. Carnival Panorama even has the trampoline park Skyzone. Teenage passengers won't want to miss the first roller coaster at sea, BOLT, on Excel-class ships: Mardi Gras , Celebration and the upcoming Jubilee, scheduled to launch in December 2023.

For even more action, Vista-class ships feature Skyride. This two-lane, bike-like ride is suspended above the top deck of the ships and extends out over the ocean. More indoor fun can be found at Thrill Theater (on Horizon and Vista ), an immersive cinematic experience where you'll feel the seat rumble, the wind blow through your hair and even a spritz of water during the action-packed video.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea .

Celebrity Cruises

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

This line's Teen Club features activities focused on kids 13 to 17. Some of the events offered for teens in the Camp at Sea program on Celebrity Cruises range from video game tournaments and sports competitions to culinary classes and silent disco parties. Teen cruisers can even book glass-blowing classes on Celebrity Solstice , Equinox and Eclipse . The offerings for young passengers are similar at either The Basement on Edge-series ships ( Edge , Apex , Beyond and Ascent, set to launch in November 2023) or at X Club on Solstice- and Millennium-class ships. Note, however, the line's three Galápagos expedition vessels do not have the teen venues. Families who need accessible accommodations, activities and programs will also find autism-friendly cruises on Celebrity.

When it comes to pampering, Celebrity's spas offer spa menus for 13- to 17-year-olds. Teens can book facials that are designed for young sensitive skin or have express pedicures and manicures. When you're ready to relax, schedule a two-by-two massage, where parents and kids can have a side-by-side treatment.

Celebrity also offers family-focused excursions that highlight cultural attractions, wildlife sightings and adventure. Some of these tours include seeing gentoo, king and Magellanic penguins in the Falkland Islands; taking an aerial tram through the treetop canopies of a rainforest in Costa Rica ; and going on a small culinary or sightseeing group excursion in Europe and other destinations around the world. On Caribbean sailings – especially when school is out for summer or on holidays – Celebrity has additional family-friendly shore excursions on its five- and seven-night sailings.

Find a  Celebrity Cruises deal on GoToSea .

Cunard Line

Cunard Line offers programs and activities for passengers ages 13 to 17 years old in its Teen Zone. This dedicated space is a place for teens to hang out with cruisers their own age and play video and team games, table tennis, and more. On the first day of the cruise, you'll find an activity program for young guests delivered to the stateroom so your teens can plan out their vacation experience, which may include entertaining theme days, deck sports, quizzes and dancing at the disco.

Teens on Cunard Line can participate in the activities around the ship, hit the pool for a dip, practice their putting or try their hand at croquet. If you're sailing on Queen Mary 2, those interested in science, wildlife and the solar system can watch up to four 3D films a day (on sea days) in the largest planetarium at sea.

Compare  Cunard Line cruises on GoToSea .

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She's sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, traditional masted sailing ships, and expedition vessels in Antarctica and the Galápagos. Pratesi covers the travel and cruise industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Lines That Let Kids Sail Free
• The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers
• The Top Adults-Only Cruises
• Cruise Packing List
• Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival

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