Packing for a trip often involves tough choices, especially when you’re aiming for a single carry-on. For many, a hair dryer might seem like a dispensable luxury. However, imagine maintaining great hair, feeling confident, and avoiding the discomfort of damp hair in various climates, all while traveling light. For me, and for many like me, a travel hair dryer isn’t just viable—it’s essential. And after extensive travel and trials, I can confidently say that the Conair Travel Smart hair dryer is a game-changer for globetrotters.
Conair TravelSmart TS263 inside EagleCreek packing cube 2018
Conair Travel Smart TS263 hair dryer nestled in a blue EagleCreek packing cube, ready for travel.
From my personal experience, if you’re an American traveler seeking a reliable hair dryer to accompany you on your adventures, look no further than the Travel Smart® hair dryer by Conair. Specifically, I recommend the 1200-Watt Tourmaline Ceramic Hair Dryer, Dual Voltage, model TS263 (now succeeded by model TS263XR, which appears to have identical specifications and size). My positive experience with this model stands firm, and here’s why it should be your travel hair companion too.
As a long-time Conair enthusiast, I’ve always appreciated the brand’s durability. After experiencing burnout with other travel dryers, I was determined to find a truly reliable and compact option. During a chance encounter, I spoke with a representative from the Conair Travel Smart® line – who was also a traveler and hair dryer user herself! When I described my needs – a small, lightweight model with powerful drying capability and lasting quality – she immediately pointed me to this longer-shaped model. She highlighted that its design wasn’t just about size; it was engineered for maximum airflow and real-world power, despite its compact form.
Intrigued and optimistic, especially given its reasonable price, I decided to try the Conair Travel Smart TS263. Knowing I could make room for its small size in my luggage, it felt like a low-risk experiment. It turned out to be an excellent decision! My history with hair dryers stretches back to my teens, and Conair has been a consistent brand in my life due to its proven longevity and dependability.
Conair Travel Smart TS263 with EU adapter
Close-up of the Conair Travel Smart TS263 hair dryer with a European adapter, showcasing its dual voltage capability for international use.
Dual Voltage Power: Performance at Home and Abroad
For three months, I initially tested this Conair travel hair dryer during domestic travel within the United States. Set to 125V and high power, its shape and drying power impressed me every time. However, the real test was international travel.
I must admit, reading in the manual that the dryer should only be used on low power in 250V regions initially made me apprehensive. The prospect of using it in the UK with reduced power caused some worry about performance.
However, my concerns were quickly dispelled. I am thrilled to report that even on the low power setting at 250V, this Conair dryer delivers exceptional power – both in speed and heat! This consistent performance continued for six months as my TS263 accompanied me through England, Wales, Northern Ireland, Ireland, Austria, and Israel.
The low setting at the higher voltage felt remarkably similar to the high setting in the USA. In every country, the airflow, warmth, and drying power were more than sufficient. The motor consistently performed without strain, a stark contrast to a cheap European hairdryer I had previously owned that burned out quickly.
After nearly a year of use, my appreciation for this dryer has only grown. In fact, I prefer it over full-sized hair dryers. The realization of how convenient a small, lightweight dryer is truly hit home when I used a standard dryer at a hair salon recently. Even when my extensive travels conclude, I doubt I’ll revert to using a bulky, full-sized dryer. The Conair Travel Smart has converted me for good.
Adapter Compatibility: Seamless International Use
Another initial concern was the power plug of the Travel Smart hair dryer. It features a 2-pronged grounded plug, with one prong wider than standard US plugs. This raised questions about adapter compatibility, particularly in the UK and Europe. Would the wider prong fit standard adapters?
Conair Travel Smart TS263 with a UK adapter
The Conair Travel Smart TS263 hair dryer connected to a UK adapter in Cardiff, demonstrating its compatibility with international power outlets.
Thankfully, it did. In England, a standard UK 3-prong fused adapter accommodated the hairdryer perfectly, functioning flawlessly throughout England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Ireland. Similarly, in Austria and Israel, it worked seamlessly with a standard 2-round-pronged adapter I had previously purchased. The grounded prong fit snugly, ensuring a secure connection.
Important Note: Due to the broader prong, I dedicate a specific adapter exclusively to this hairdryer. For other devices, I use separate adapters, tailored to each country. I prefer purchasing country-specific adapters for their perceived durability and safety over universal, one-size-fits-all adapters. Interestingly, a hostel in Dublin even had signs discouraging the use of universal adapters, citing issues with some folding UK ground posts.
Durability: Built to Last Through Travel Mishaps
The robustness of the Conair Travel Smart was unexpectedly tested when it was accidentally dropped from a 5-foot shelf onto a hard tile floor. A gasp of worry turned into relief the next day when the dryer worked perfectly fine, showcasing its surprising durability. This incident further solidified my confidence in its travel-ready construction.
Why Pack a Hair Dryer When Traveling?
For those questioning the necessity of a travel hair dryer, especially when trying to pack minimally, consider these points: For me, having dry hair, particularly in colder climates, is crucial for comfort, warmth, and overall well-being, reducing the likelihood of catching a cold. Beyond practicality, a hair dryer enables styled hair even in basic accommodations, allowing me to feel and look presentable, not just like a disheveled traveler. This is especially appreciated when looking back at travel photos – no need for explanations about bad hair days! Of course, there are days when time is short, or weather intervenes, but having the option to quickly style my hair with the Conair Travel Smart makes a significant positive difference to my travel experience.
Key Features of the Travel Smart TS263 & TS263XR:
- Tourmaline ceramic technology: Reduces frizz and enhances natural shine with natural ion output.
- 1200 Watts: Powerful for quick and effective drying.
- 2 Heat/Speed Settings: Versatile for different hair types and styling needs.
- Worldwide Dual Voltage (125/250V): For global compatibility.
- Folding Handle: Compact storage for travel.
- Non-slip grip: Easy and secure handling.
- Concentrator Nozzle: For focused styling (optional to pack for space-saving).
- ETL Listed: Certified safety and quality.
This compact hair dryer fits perfectly into my EagleCreek half-cube packing cube, nestled safely within my backpack, proving how easily it integrates into a minimalist packing strategy.
Conair Travel Smart hairdryer inside my EagleCreek packing cube and within my EagleCreek backpack, 2018
The Conair Travel Smart hair dryer compactly packed inside a blue EagleCreek packing cube, demonstrating its travel-friendly size within a backpack.
UPDATE July 2022: Having used this Conair hair dryer since early 2018, my positive review remains unchanged. Even during a period of reduced travel, it has remained my preferred hair dryer at home.
To truly appreciate its size, here’s a visual:
Conair Travel Smart hair dryer measurement folded
Conair Travel Smart hair dryer measurement unfolded
Finding the Conair Travel Smart in physical stores can be surprisingly difficult; often, less effective models are more readily available. However, it is easily accessible online, including on Amazon. Here’s a direct link for easy purchase.
Travel confidently and look your best, wherever you go, with the Conair Travel Smart hair dryer – a small but mighty travel essential.
