Even for seasoned travelers, unpacking a suitcase can sometimes feel like facing a mountainous chore. The question always arises: can those wrinkled clothes pass with just a good shake, or is it time to seek reinforcements? While most hotels offer irons, the thought of setting up the ironing board and meticulously pressing each garment can feel like a vacation buzzkill. Plus, delicate fabrics often can’t withstand harsh heat. This leads many to wonder: is traveling with a clothing steamer a viable solution? The answer is a resounding yes, especially when you choose one of the Best Rated Travel Steamers.
A few years back, when I first embarked on the quest to find the best travel steamer, I was skeptical. The idea of adding another gadget to my precious carry-on space seemed counterintuitive. However, as a frequent traveler with a family of four, I quickly realized that a hotel ironing setup often becomes a magnet for clutter – toys, shopping bags, you name it. It just gets in the way. Since I began testing travel steamers, it’s become rare for me to leave home without one. They’ve truly revolutionized how I manage wrinkles on the go.
After rigorously testing 13 different models, I’ve discovered a key feature that separates the good from the truly great: a metal soleplate. Models with this feature allow you to gently press the steamer against the fabric, effectively smoothing out even the most stubborn wrinkles. Beyond wrinkle removal, steamers offer another significant benefit – they kill 99% of bacteria. It’s worth noting that many manufacturers recommend using distilled water to minimize sediment buildup. However, in my testing, I used regular tap water, as distilled water isn’t always readily accessible while traveling, mirroring real-world travel conditions.
This article has been updated with the latest information to reflect the best rated travel steamers currently available.
My Top Picks:
- Best Overall: Proctor Silex Compact 2-in-1 Steamer
- Best Lightweight: Nesugar Portable Handheld Steamer
- Best Long-Lasting: Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam
- Best Foldable: Seekclass Foldable Steamer
- Best for International Travel: Conair Travel Smart Steamer
- Most Leakproof: Steamery Cirrus 3 Steamer
- Best Two-in-One: The Nori Press
How We Tested:
To determine the best rated travel steamers, each model underwent a series of tests across various fabric types, including jeans, khakis, T-shirts, button-down shirts, linens, blouses, and jackets. Our evaluation was based on the following key criteria to simulate real travel scenarios:
- Size/Packability: Does the steamer easily fit into a standard weekender bag or carry-on suitcase without taking up excessive space?
- Power/Efficiency: Is the steamer quicker and more convenient than using a hotel iron? Does it achieve comparable or superior results in wrinkle removal?
- Water Capacity: How frequently does the water reservoir need refilling when steaming a complete outfit? Is the tank capacity adequate for typical travel use?
- Leakproof Performance: Does the steamer leak or spit water during use? Will you be left with wet spots on your clothes, potentially delaying your plans?
- Durability/Longevity: Is the steamer built to withstand the rigors of travel? Is it a worthwhile investment that will last through numerous trips?
FAQ:
Can I travel with a portable steamer?
Yes, you absolutely can. Most travel steamers are designed to be compact enough to fit comfortably in your carry-on luggage. They are also TSA-compliant, meaning you can bring them through airport security without any issues. Just be sure to empty any remaining water from the reservoir before heading to the airport to avoid any potential leaks or delays.
Is a portable steamer worth it?
For many travelers, a portable steamer is an invaluable addition to their luggage. If you’re attending a formal event, packing clothes prone to wrinkling (like linen or silk), or simply prefer a polished look while traveling, then a travel steamer is definitely worth considering. Personally, I’ve found that having a steamer actually simplifies my packing strategy. Knowing I can easily freshen up clothes allows me to pack fewer items and re-wear favorites, making a minimalist capsule wardrobe for travel even more achievable. As someone who prioritizes carry-on travel to avoid checked baggage fees and hassles, I appreciate the space-saving benefits. Even if space becomes tight, a travel steamer is an easy item to remove if absolutely necessary. Below, we delve into the six best rated travel steamers that deserve a spot in your luggage for your next adventure.
Best Overall Steamer
Proctor Silex compact 2-in-1 steamer for best overall travel steamer
Proctor Silex Compact 2-in-1 Steamer
The Proctor Silex Compact 2-in-1 Garment Steamer has recently claimed the top spot as my new favorite. While the Nesugar handheld steamer was previously my go-to, the Proctor Silex offers a slight but significant upgrade. Only seven ounces heavier than the Nesugar, it provides continuous steam for nearly 10 minutes on a single fill, outperforming many competitors in its class. What truly impressed me was its consistent performance across all fabric types. Even stubborn wrinkles in jeans were effortlessly smoothed out. Hotel room outlet availability can be unpredictable, so the generous 10-foot power cord is a welcome feature, allowing for comfortable movement while steaming. Surprisingly, the Proctor Silex is also the most budget-friendly option on this list, priced at just $20. If you’re an occasional traveler seeking a reliable and affordable steamer, this is an excellent and safe choice.
Weight: 1.63 lbs.
Water tank capacity: 4 oz.
What I like most: Affordable price point, effectively de-wrinkles all fabric types, rapid 45-second heat-up time, includes a useful brush attachment.
Where there’s room for improvement: The reservoir opening can be somewhat difficult to empty completely.
Best Lightweight Steamer
Nesugar portable handheld steamer for best lightweight travel steamer
Nesugar Portable Handheld Steamer
Having used the Nesugar portable steamer consistently for over a year, I’ve come to truly appreciate its smart and travel-friendly design. Weighing in at under a pound, the Nesugar is incredibly lightweight yet still delivers a surprisingly powerful stream of steam. Despite its small water reservoir, it provided nearly 10 minutes of continuous steam, enough to de-wrinkle about five garments – though it struggled a bit with heavier fabrics like jeans. A convenient button activates the steam, and thankfully, you don’t need to hold it down constantly, a thoughtful design detail. The metal soleplate adds versatility, allowing for an ironing option, which proved useful for tackling those stubborn jean wrinkles. The adjustable steamer head is a standout feature, making it remarkably compact for packing and offering flexible steaming angles. Initially, I was concerned that frequent adjustments might loosen the head over time, but it remains sturdy even after countless trips, demonstrating its durability. As a bonus, the unit includes a wall mount, providing a dedicated storage spot at home for easy access.
Weight: 12.8 oz.
What I like most: Extremely lightweight and packable, adjustable steamer head for different angles, convenient wall mount included.
Where there’s room for improvement: Best suited for lighter fabrics; may require more effort on heavier materials like denim.
Best Long-Lasting Steamer
Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam for best long-lasting travel steamer
Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam
While positioned at a higher price point than some other travel steamers, the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam truly excels in power and functionality, making it a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers or those who demand top-tier performance. A simple T-shirt can emerge wrinkle-free and looking brand new in under a minute. While it can effortlessly tackle stubborn wrinkles in jackets and heavier fabrics, it also offers adjustable settings to gently steam more delicate items, a feature unique to the Conair Turbo among the models tested. It even includes a built-in creaser for those who prefer sharp creases in their garments. The increased power does mean it consumes water more quickly, so refills are necessary after steaming a few items, depending on the fabric type and wrinkle severity. The Conair Turbo would have been a strong contender for the top overall spot if it were more compact for travel; its dimensions (13″ x 8″ x 6″) make it a bit bulky for carry-ons. However, if you frequently use an iron at home, this steamer could be the perfect replacement, offering both power and versatility in a portable format.
Weight: 3.2 lbs.
Water tank capacity: 6.6 oz.
What I like most: Exceptional wrinkle-removing power on all fabrics, multiple steam settings for different garment types, and a rapid heat-up time.
Where there’s room for improvement: The small reservoir opening can make refilling somewhat cumbersome, and its larger size may be less ideal for ultra-light travel.
Best Foldable Steamer
Seekclass foldable steamer for best foldable travel steamer
Seekclass Foldable Steamer
The Seekclass Foldable Steamer stands out as the most visually appealing steamer in our tests and secures the second spot for packability thanks to its clever foldable design. With a rapid 30-second warm-up time and automatic steam dispensing (eliminating the need to hold down a trigger), the Seekclass impressed from the start. However, steaming a pair of pants took approximately four minutes, requiring the use of the metal soleplate to achieve optimal results. The water reservoir is quite small, necessitating a refill to complete steaming the pants. The small refill hole also makes it challenging to empty any remaining water before packing. Therefore, it’s advisable to allow the steamer to dry thoroughly at your earliest convenience to prevent mineral buildup.
Weight: 1.4 pounds
Water tank capacity: 3.5 oz.
What I like most: Foldable handle for exceptional portability, effective metal soleplate, and quick heat-up time.
Where there’s room for improvement: Prone to leaks when placed on its side, small and somewhat difficult-to-fill reservoir, and heavier fabrics may require multiple refills.
Best Steamer for International Travel
Conair Travel Smart steamer for best international travel steamer
Conair Travel Smart Steamer
For those who frequently travel internationally, the Conair Travel Smart Steamer is an ideal choice thanks to its automatic dual voltage capability, eliminating the need for voltage converters. The heat-up time is impressively quick, around 20 seconds. However, the reservoir does get quite hot during use, so it’s important to hold it only by the handle. The high reservoir temperature also necessitates a brief pause between refills. Despite this, a single tank is sufficient for steaming approximately three garments. A standout feature is the automatic steam activation upon powering on, meaning you don’t have to continuously hold down a trigger button, reducing hand fatigue. The primary reason this steamer remains a top recommendation is its specific appeal to international travelers seeking hassle-free voltage compatibility and reliable performance abroad.
Weight: 1.2 lbs.
Water tank capacity: 3.4 oz.
What I like most: Automatic dual voltage for international use, collapsible handle for compact travel, automatic heat-up without a power button, and no trigger required for steam release.
Where there’s room for improvement: Reservoir becomes very hot, preventing immediate refills.
Most Leakproof Steamer
Steamery Cirrus 3 steamer for most leakproof travel steamer
Steamery Cirrus 3 Steamer
I often lean towards hybrid steamers that double as irons, and the Steamery Cirrus 3 perfectly embodies this versatility. The large iron plate is remarkably efficient, approaching the performance of a full-size iron. However, one water tank only steams about three garments. The standout feature of the Steamery Cirrus 3 is its exceptional leakproof design. For busy travelers like myself, leak resistance is paramount. The last thing anyone wants is to deal with damp spots on clothes and the hassle of waiting for them to dry, especially when time is of the essence. Even with a deliberate shake test, the Steamery Cirrus 3 remained completely leak-free. The primary drawback of this model is its higher price point, which may be a deterrent for budget-conscious travelers.
Weight: 1.8 lbs.
Water tank capacity: 3 oz.
What I like most: Large and effective iron plate, completely leakproof operation, and quick heat-up.
Where there’s room for improvement: Higher price compared to other travel steamers, and the reservoir capacity is limited to about three garments per fill.
Best Two-in-One Steamer
The Nori Press two-in-one steamer for best two-in-one travel steamer
The Nori Press
Concluding our roundup of the best rated travel steamers is The Nori Press, a unique hybrid steamer and iron highly recommended by senior editor Megan Spurrell. “The sleek design of the Nori steamer initially drew me in—two-in-one appliances are always a plus for travel, and the prospect of skipping the ironing board was definitely appealing,” Spurrell notes. “I put it to the ultimate test on my destination wedding day, using it on both my wedding dress and my husband’s linen suit. It successfully got the job done, and both the steaming and ironing functions performed effectively.”
This innovative and compact device features two heated aluminum plates that simultaneously press both sides of a garment, significantly reducing steaming and ironing time. Another advantage is its six fabric settings (polyester, silk, wool, cotton, denim, and linen), ensuring wrinkle-free results and preventing fabric damage regardless of your wardrobe choices.
Weight: 1.4 lbs.
Water tank capacity: 1 oz.
What I like most: Double heated plates for faster wrinkle removal, dual voltage for international travel, and automatic shut-off after 10 minutes of inactivity.
Where there’s room for improvement: The very small water reservoir is best suited for smaller steaming tasks, and it can become tiring to hold when smoothing heavily wrinkled garments for extended periods.
