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Pack Light, Dry Right: Finding the Best Travel Hair Dryer for Gorgeous Hair on the Go

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Tired of unreliable hotel hair dryers ruining your vacation hairstyles? You’re not alone. Many travelers face the frustration of weak, inefficient dryers that simply can’t handle the job, especially if you have long or thick hair, or if you’re aiming for a stylish blowout while traveling. Investing in a compact, lightweight travel hair dryer ensures you have a dependable tool to meet your hair drying and styling needs, no matter where you are.

We’ve rigorously tested a range of travel hair dryers to help you find the perfect companion for your suitcase. Our evaluation of 35 different models focused on key aspects like ease of use, essential features, drying performance, overall design, and value for money. From premium, high-performance dryers to budget-friendly options with versatile attachments, our guide will help you discover the best travel hair dryers for your next adventure. While we explored numerous excellent options, we understand the allure of top-tier brands like Dyson in the hair care world. Although this review doesn’t specifically feature a Dyson Travel Hair Dryer, we’ve kept in mind the features that make brands like Dyson popular – such as powerful airflow, compact design, and advanced technology – as we assessed the best travel dryers available. If you’re seeking a dryer that embodies these qualities in a travel-friendly package, keep reading to see our top recommendations.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

T3 Afar Travel Size Hair Dryer

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PHOTO: Bloomingdale’s

$180 at Amazon $112 at Nordstrom $112 at Nordstrom

Why We Love It: This dryer stands out for its incredibly lightweight design, comfortable grip, and stylish pink color. It mirrors the design philosophy of brands like Dyson, focusing on combining aesthetics with high performance in a travel-friendly size.

What to Consider: It does not include a diffuser attachment, which might be a drawback for those with curly or textured hair, unlike some premium dryers that offer a range of attachments.

If you’re looking for a single, exceptional travel hair dryer, the T3 Afar Travel Size Hair Dryer should be at the top of your list. T3 is renowned for its superior hair tools, and this compact, versatile dryer is no exception. Weighing less than a pound and featuring a foldable handle, it minimizes luggage space. It even comes with a vegan leather travel pouch, perfect for keeping it separate and safe, especially when packing it while it’s still warm after use.

This dryer is effective across all hair types, from fine and straight to thick and coily. It utilizes a wide, ion-infused airstream to dry hair quickly and gently. During our tests, we were impressed by the strong, consistent airflow. The negative ions work to smooth the hair cuticle, significantly reducing frizz and enhancing shine. Post-drying, our hair appeared noticeably shinier and healthier. It offers three heat and two speed settings, along with a cool shot button to set your style. A fantastic feature for international travel is its dual-voltage capability, automatically adjusting to different voltages, eliminating the need for a converter (though you might need a plug adapter depending on your destination). This feature is often found in higher-end dryers, making the T3 Afar a smart choice for global travelers who value convenience and performance similar to brands like a Dyson travel hair dryer.

The Details: 3 heat settings | 2 speed settings | 12.2 ounces | 1500 watts | 9-foot cord | Folding handle | Includes travel pouch

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-t3-afar-lightweight-travel-sized-hair-dryer-ahuang-070-963cb0742599452992e62b8283f394c1.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/WGvQ8AueIZexZK30ClHmsGRUCMk=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-t3-afar-lightweight-travel-sized-hair-dryer-ahuang-070-963cb0742599452992e62b8283f394c1.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-T3-Afar-Travel-Dryer_JESSICAJULIAO–3170-ceabd45534e244f9b31e484a065a1f35.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/hzNJGAI_5vEIGt9JCKR59vCeK1I=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-T3-Afar-Travel-Dryer_JESSICAJULIAO–3170-ceabd45534e244f9b31e484a065a1f35.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Budget

Revlon Airflow Control Dryer

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PHOTO: Ulta

$39 at Amazon $48 at Walmart $38 at Walmart

Why We Love It: For travelers seeking an affordable and functional option, this Revlon dryer is unbeatable in price. It offers essential features at a fraction of the cost of premium models, proving you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a decent travel dryer, even when considering high-end options like a Dyson travel hair dryer.

What to Consider: It is most effective on thin and fine hair types. Those with thicker or coarser hair might find it less powerful compared to high-end dryers known for their strong airflow.

If you’re an occasional traveler or prefer to keep your budget in check, the Revlon Airflow Control Dryer is an excellent choice. It delivers solid performance without the hefty price tag. Featuring a narrowly concentrated airflow, it increases speed and targets wider hair sections than standard concentrators, making it efficient for quick blowouts and styling. The nozzle is rotatable and lockable both vertically and horizontally, allowing for focused airflow from any angle. It also includes a diffuser, a valuable addition for curly hair styling. In our tests, the ceramic tourmaline technology effectively reduced frizz and enhanced shine, providing impressive results for its price range. It comes with three heat and two speed settings, offering good control and versatility for various hair types, although those with very thick hair might still find premium dryers, like a Dyson travel hair dryer, offer more power.

The Details: 3 heat settings | 2 speed settings | 2.07 pounds | 3.6 x 11.1 x 9 inches | 1875 watts | 6-foot cord

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-revlon-airflow-control-dryer-ahuang-019-85a61967932e403295414fca78f7490d.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/RoApwEuixvJHkD4eWf00rUyrO8E=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-revlon-airflow-control-dryer-ahuang-019-85a61967932e403295414fca78f7490d.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-revlon-airflow-control-dryer-ahuang-022-bd40ecc85c5a4aa7bd4b280ea4f64f8e.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/BoVreir34DXWrxda8EtmfQMJb_0=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-revlon-airflow-control-dryer-ahuang-022-bd40ecc85c5a4aa7bd4b280ea4f64f8e.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-revlon-airflow-control-dryer-ahuang-021-28821f01f30f457c8d2e0023faab2774.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/76oRE4JIIMK2FjIAX5n_MTWNM8A=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-revlon-airflow-control-dryer-ahuang-021-28821f01f30f457c8d2e0023faab2774.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best for Frizz

BondiBoost Sonic Dryer

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PHOTO: Bondi Boost

$140 at Amazon View on Bondiboost.com $199 at Sephora

Why We Love It: This lightweight dryer excels in delivering powerful airflow while effectively combating frizz. It’s designed for smooth results, much like premium dryers known for their frizz-reducing technology, such as a Dyson travel hair dryer.

What to Consider: The attachments can be somewhat difficult to remove, which may be a minor inconvenience for users who frequently switch between styling tools.

Despite its compact and lightweight form, the BondiBoost Sonic Dryer packs significant power. We were particularly impressed with its airflow strength during testing. Remarkably, the motor operates quieter than typical hair dryers, making it ideal for use in shared hotel rooms during early mornings or late nights. It features four heat and three speed settings, plus a cool shot, accommodating a wide range of hair types and styling needs. We observed that the BondiBoost dryer dried hair quickly and efficiently, even on lower heat and speed settings, leaving hair noticeably smoother and with less frizz. Similar to the ionic technology found in brands like Dyson, this dryer ensures a sleek finish. It includes both a concentrator and a diffuser attachment, enhancing its versatility. A unique self-cleaning function is included to prolong the dryer’s lifespan. Additionally, a smart memory function recalls your preferred heat and speed settings for ease of use.

The Details: 3 heat settings | 3 speed settings | 12.32 ounces | 9-foot cord

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-bondi-boost-sonic-dryer-ahuang-028-c8d0c97482dc4545a95e5929cff083ce.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/gwWJLDNDj7V5lDk6xnDdld50eGE=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-bondi-boost-sonic-dryer-ahuang-028-c8d0c97482dc4545a95e5929cff083ce.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-bondi-boost-sonic-dryer-ahuang-029-db2c5d60205f4dd49714a75dd85a6078.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/nI1fbBuxv3c8GBZ3ZynHu_1eTEE=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-bondi-boost-sonic-dryer-ahuang-029-db2c5d60205f4dd49714a75dd85a6078.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-bondi-boost-sonic-dryer-ahuang-030-e2b215d8141246f793a4c5f3bce68a6a.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/58fiMngL2oGMR3HKwUIkj8dvvXM=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-bondi-boost-sonic-dryer-ahuang-030-e2b215d8141246f793a4c5f3bce68a6a.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-bondi-boost-sonic-dryer-ahuang-032-e87c65efa3864922a70bd0db1d8a887b.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/6vSkgcIFKdO2HZ0u_TMENgUaZJw=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-bondi-boost-sonic-dryer-ahuang-032-e87c65efa3864922a70bd0db1d8a887b.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

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Best Airflow

TYMO HighSpeed Hair Dryer

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PHOTO: TYMO

$200 $170 at Amazon View on Tymobeauty.com

Why We Love It: Many compact hair dryers compromise on power, but the TYMO HighSpeed Hair Dryer delivers exceptional airflow for quick drying. It’s designed to compete with high-velocity dryers like those from Dyson, ensuring efficient performance in a travel size.

What to Consider: The power button can be a bit sensitive and requires getting used to, which is a minor usability issue compared to the seamless operation of some premium dryers.

Don’t let its small, lightweight design fool you—this hair dryer is a powerhouse. We were particularly impressed by the intensity of its airflow, especially considering its mid-range price. The TYMO HighSpeed Hair Dryer features four heat settings (up to 302 degrees Fahrenheit), three speed settings, and a cold shot, allowing it to effectively dry hair faster than many other models we tested. The LCD display is a premium touch, showing the exact temperature being used, a feature sometimes seen in high-end models like a Dyson travel hair dryer. It also includes an auto-cleaning function for maintenance. Adding to its value, it comes with an adjustable diffuser, a comb nozzle, a smoothing nozzle, and a travel pouch. Our only minor issue was the power button, which requires a slightly longer press to operate, but overall, the performance and features are outstanding for a travel dryer.

The Details: 4 heat settings | 3 speed settings | 10.5 ounces | 1200 watts | Includes travel pouch

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-tymo-hair-dryer-ahuang-048-c916e462b74d4740b680eda21210055c.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/6P14fmTv6PHWt8tVPlmu-9KkXdo=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-tymo-hair-dryer-ahuang-048-c916e462b74d4740b680eda21210055c.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-tymo-hair-dryer-ahuang-059-3d12e480853b4636a378bd085520596b.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/F8-xFkpyVeU_VVWVJAZFOj-5bCo=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-tymo-hair-dryer-ahuang-059-3d12e480853b4636a378bd085520596b.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-tymo-hair-dryer-ahuang-058-80ea527f0d4644c28858dd70116e80cb.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/rPzffYcGHjKxCNM3lbCZYTplZoM=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-tymo-hair-dryer-ahuang-058-80ea527f0d4644c28858dd70116e80cb.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-tymo-hair-dryer-ahuang-057-df401969256f4ca986289368f3d3f415.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/ZjLDmjLzWuyvlpmlQSLI8CfGBYI=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-tymo-hair-dryer-ahuang-057-df401969256f4ca986289368f3d3f415.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-tymo-hair-dryer-ahuang-062-368acb65956349b2b713046c4ec2389b.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/Bib8vUswRCgrSVs8oPSket0ranI=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-tymo-hair-dryer-ahuang-062-368acb65956349b2b713046c4ec2389b.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best Foldable

SRI DryQ Hair Dryer

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PHOTO: Skin Research Institute

$299 at Amazon View on Skinresearchinstitute.com

Why We Love It: The foldable design of the SRI DryQ Hair Dryer significantly enhances its portability, making it exceptionally easy to pack. This feature is particularly beneficial for travelers with limited luggage space, similar to how compact designs are a key feature in premium travel dryers.

What to Consider: The placement of setting buttons on the dryer’s body rather than the handle may be less convenient for quick adjustments during use, a design choice that differs from some ergonomic premium models.

A foldable hair dryer is a game-changer for travelers, offering unparalleled convenience for fitting into tight luggage spaces. Even at home, its compact storage is a plus. The SRI DryQ Hair Dryer, a lightweight and foldable model, employs ionic technology to minimize frizz and accelerate drying time. It also incorporates red light therapy, purported to strengthen weak, brittle hair and stimulate growth—features that align with the innovative technologies found in high-end brands. It offers four heat modes (160 to 296 degrees Fahrenheit) and three speed settings, along with a memory function. While we appreciated its quick drying and smooth, damage-free results, the button placement on the body was slightly less user-friendly than handle controls. However, its unique features and foldability make it a compelling option for those prioritizing space and advanced hair care technology in a travel dryer.

The Details: 4 heat settings | 3 speed settings | 11.8 ounces | 8.2 x 8.7 inches | 1300 watts | 6.5-foot cord | Folding handle

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-sri-dry-q-ahuang-040-390ed12092dd4152b3d2d7afbce851db.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/1mI7z0LhvwaZjZxqzEq0rDg4zZQ=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-sri-dry-q-ahuang-040-390ed12092dd4152b3d2d7afbce851db.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-sri-dry-q-ahuang-041-64e4a469913141cc981ddb445b8657f6.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/M_juRRro-2wXM9t3ZnQEZJdqCsM=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-sri-dry-q-ahuang-041-64e4a469913141cc981ddb445b8657f6.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-sri-dry-q-ahuang-043-d56692856c6e431b90b27f7de8710914.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/wHYS8KYnzNm9rHhWOvgdv9p1Tro=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-sri-dry-q-ahuang-043-d56692856c6e431b90b27f7de8710914.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-sri-dry-q-ahuang-037-038e48489b154ff280c9bfad1652beae.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/gUs8_tyqTl3XEKu2rJDJ3H8rWYA=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-sri-dry-q-ahuang-037-038e48489b154ff280c9bfad1652beae.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best Accessories

Olivia Garden High Performance Professional Hair Dryer

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PHOTO: Olivia Garden

$300 at Amazon View on Oliviagarden.com

Why We Love It: The Olivia Garden High Performance Professional Hair Dryer stands out for its extensive set of included accessories: a concentrator nozzle, a diffuser, two round brushes, and a paddle brush. This comprehensive kit means you’re equipped for virtually any hairstyle on your travels, minimizing the need to pack extra styling tools, similar to the all-in-one approach of some premium hair styling systems.

What to Consider: Some users may find the attachments slightly challenging to remove, which could be a minor inconvenience when switching frequently between styling tools.

If you’re tired of accidentally changing heat or speed settings due to button misplacement, the Olivia Garden High Performance Professional Hair Dryer has a solution. This lightweight dryer features a button lock, ensuring your settings remain constant across three airflow speeds and three heat settings (145 to 250 degrees Fahrenheit). We found the powerful airflow and damage-free performance justified its higher price. The inclusion of numerous attachments and accessories allows for diverse hairstyles without needing extra tools. It also boasts a self-cleaning function to remove buildup. While it competes in price with premium dryers like a Dyson travel hair dryer, the added accessories offer exceptional value for users needing a full styling kit in one travel-friendly package.

The Details: 3 heat settings | 3 speed settings | 13 ounces | 11.8 x 11.8 x 5.9 inches | 1875 watts | 9-foot cord

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-olivia-garden-high-performance-professional-hair-dryer-ahuang-047-281da8e30bac47deb7baba0df6e3dd60.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/xwohDRkxkRlZXtHTkGRHbJReS3U=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-olivia-garden-high-performance-professional-hair-dryer-ahuang-047-281da8e30bac47deb7baba0df6e3dd60.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-olivia-garden-high-performance-professional-hair-dryer-ahuang-050-274fe7fea8f04846a3daff1bb735d24c.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/9X-1ZJ3QVoACAPu-L8Aqwmz96eY=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-olivia-garden-high-performance-professional-hair-dryer-ahuang-050-274fe7fea8f04846a3daff1bb735d24c.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

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Best Blow Dry Brush

Drybar 3-In-1 Interchangeable Blow Dryer

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PHOTO: Drybar

$349 at Amazon $349 at Nordstrom View on Drybar.com

Why We Love It: With the Drybar Reserve 3-in-1 Interchangeable Blow Dryer, you can leave your other styling tools at home. This versatile tool combines drying and styling in one, perfect for travelers aiming for salon-quality blowouts without packing multiple devices.

What to Consider: It is not ideally suited for curling hair. For curls, consider packing heatless curlers instead, as this tool is primarily designed for straightening and volumizing.

For achieving a classic salon-style blowout at home or on the go, the Drybar Reserve 3-in-1 Interchangeable Blow Dryer is an excellent choice. It includes an oval brush, a paddle brush, and a concentrator nozzle, providing tools for various styles. While curling isn’t its forte (consider heatless curlers for that), it excels at creating sleek, straight hair with volume at the ends. Our tests showed no signs of heat damage, and the cool setting enhanced shine and healthiness. It effectively tames flyaways and smooths frizz and static. Compared to other blow dry brushes, it’s lighter and more travel-friendly. For those who want to skip salon visits while traveling, this device is a comprehensive styling solution, though for ultimate portability, dedicated travel dryers like a Dyson travel hair dryer might be smaller.

The Details: 4 heat settings | 3 speed settings | 1 pound | 4.57 x 12.7 x 7.4 inches | 9-foot cord

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-drybar-3-in-1-interchangeable-blow-dryer-ahuang-015-7d6d88f4d8c2490fbb3f2aaee75fc423.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/0xt79O87upMwrX9hI5KBLl2zacM=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-drybar-3-in-1-interchangeable-blow-dryer-ahuang-015-7d6d88f4d8c2490fbb3f2aaee75fc423.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure/Alexander Huang

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure/Alexander Huang

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure/Alexander Huang

Best Heat Settings

Shark SpeedStyle Pro FLEX Hair Dryer System

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PHOTO: Shark

$230 $199 at Amazon $230 at Nordstrom $230 at Sharkclean.com

Why We Love It: The Shark SpeedStyle Pro FLEX Hair Dryer System includes a unique Scalp Shield setting that intelligently adjusts temperature to protect your scalp from excessive heat and damage. This feature is particularly appealing for those concerned about heat damage, setting it apart from standard dryers and aligning with the heat-conscious technology seen in premium brands.

What to Consider: It does not come with a protective carrying case, which might be a drawback for travelers wanting to keep all attachments organized and protected during transit, unlike some travel sets that include dedicated cases.

This compact yet powerful hair dryer is equipped with almost every hair styling tool you might need on the go. It includes four attachments: a slim nozzle for precise drying, a diffuser for curls and waves, a blowout brush for smooth volume, and a finishing tool for flyaways on straight hair. Weighing under 2 pounds and folding in half, it’s ideal for carry-on luggage. Its standout feature is the Scalp Shield, which automatically adjusts temperature to prevent scalp and hair damage by ensuring the dryer never exceeds 230 degrees Fahrenheit. While it doesn’t include a carrying case, its comprehensive features and heat protection make it a top choice for travelers seeking a system that combines versatility with hair health, addressing concerns similar to those who seek out features in a Dyson travel hair dryer focused on heat control and hair protection.

The Details: 3 heat settings | 1.57 pounds | 6.58 x 1.89 x 9.76 inches | 8-foot cord

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-shark-speedstyle-pro-flex-hair-dryer-system-ahuang-023-1da6d2f7bd9241fda739aed7610ba240.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/4cMg0_nujew7lrpmIfNRGky107Y=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-shark-speedstyle-pro-flex-hair-dryer-system-ahuang-023-1da6d2f7bd9241fda739aed7610ba240.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure/Alexander Huang

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure/Alexander Huang

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure/Alexander Huang

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure/Alexander Huang

  • [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-shark-speedstyle-pro-flex-hair-dryer-system-ahuang-034-f775200441944a8da1652f2445ce77be.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/QE5OUzdrf5OHb7-BxQOEL_R6w4Q=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-shark-speedstyle-pro-flex-hair-dryer-system-ahuang-034-f775200441944a8da1652f2445ce77be.jpeg)
    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure/Alexander Huang

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    PHOTO: Travel + Leisure/Alexander Huang

Other Travel Hair Dryers We Liked

These two hair dryers also performed well in our tests, though they had minor drawbacks.

  • Mane Addicts This Totally Blows! Compact Hair Dryer: We appreciated the lightweight design and multiple attachments (concentrator, diffuser, comb). However, its higher price for limited heat settings was a slight downside.

  • T3 Fit Hair Dryer: The long cord is a major plus, and it’s sturdy and compact. The placement of speed and heat settings on the handle’s exterior made adjustments during use a bit awkward.

Our Testing Process

We began by testing 35 top hair dryers in our lab and in real-world scenarios, focusing on compact, portable, and lightweight models ideal for travel. Editors and professional hair stylists evaluated ease of use, features, drying performance, hair appearance, and value. Following initial lab tests, we used the dryers at home at least twice weekly for four weeks to ensure they met the needs of everyday travelers without professional assistance.

Detailed notes were taken to compare dryers across ease of use, features, drying speed, hair results, and overall value. We are committed to ongoing testing and will update this article with new travel hair dryers we recommend.

Tips for Buying a Travel Hair Dryer

Pay attention to size and weight

For limited luggage space, smaller, foldable, and lightweight dryers are best. Foldable models are especially convenient, and options under one pound are available for weight-conscious travelers.

[:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-t3-afar-lightweight-travel-sized-hair-dryer-ahuang-070-963cb0742599452992e62b8283f394c1.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/8nm-3a7qLcHtKGcrwztMcNIOL7Y=/750×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-t3-afar-lightweight-travel-sized-hair-dryer-ahuang-070-963cb0742599452992e62b8283f394c1.jpeg)
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Make sure it works for your hair type

Select a dryer with wattage and power settings similar to your home dryer to avoid weak drying or heat damage. Test it before traveling. Typical dryers are around 1800 watts.

[:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-bondi-boost-sonic-dryer-ahuang-032-e87c65efa3864922a70bd0db1d8a887b.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/K0t3nYdsbwZgGyIg64xELcvkLyA=/750×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tier-3-bondi-boost-sonic-dryer-ahuang-032-e87c65efa3864922a70bd0db1d8a887b.jpeg)
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Updated by Taylor Fox

Taylor Fox

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Edited by Jackie Cucco [:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/JackieCuccoHeadshot-20cc479faeb842d0bf8e77406c9c1382.jpg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/pA7On1AD7ZEsQOwTQyOWBt4Royg=/75×75/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/JackieCuccoHeadshot-20cc479faeb842d0bf8e77406c9c1382.jpg)

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