Traveling and needing to pack light doesn't mean you can't bring stuff to help you look good. Your hair needs care. It's likely going to act up when you encounter different environments. You don't want your hair to look messy in all the photos, right?
Our Best Travel Flat Irons Review list is here to help!
Read on to learn about our travel flat iron recommendations and how they can help you look your best in any situation! Sun, rain, or wind, these irons have got your back!
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Travel Flat Iron
Comparison of the Best Travel Flat Irons
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How Can I Tell if My Flat Iron is Dual Voltage?
Before we begin our review list, you might have heard about flat irons being dual voltage. So, what does that mean?
Well, keeping it simple, as the term states, a dual-voltage flat iron means it is the type that can accept 110-120V, as well as 220-240V ranges. Dual voltage is also known as universal voltage. This is because a tool with such versatility can work anywhere in the world.
The voltage across the U.S.A. is 110-120V. For Europe, the standard is 220V. The standard voltage in Australia and most Asian countries is 230V.
Now, for those wondering if your flat iron is dual voltage, there’s a way for you to check. Take note; most modern models are dual voltage. You can make sure by reading the product’s specifications. Your dual voltage hair styling tool should also have a label stating it can cover 110-240V.
There are some models that state they have a "wide range input". Such a term also denotes that the tool can be used around the world.
If you happen to be the type of person who travels a lot around the world, then it's recommended you opt for a dual-voltage flat iron. Similarly, if you have a friend or loved one living in another country and you want to send a flat iron to them, again, opt for a dual voltage model.
Having a dual voltage iron for styling your hair means you won’t have to carry around a universal plug adapter (which does not work in all places).
Are All Travel Flat Irons the Same?
Some of you might not know this, but not all travel flat irons are exactly the same. Before you go ahead and purchase one, there are a few things to be aware of.
Take note; not all straighteners are flat irons. However, all flat irons are straighteners. Both terms are used interchangeably in the beauty industry. That's why, if you see a straightener in our review list, you can rest assured the tool will work as a flat iron, too.
The term straightener covers any device capable of straightening hair. So, it’s an umbrella term going over flat iron, hot combs, certain hot brushes, and blow dryers, too.
The term flat iron is more specific. It's used to define a tool that uses two iron plates to straighten hair.
Now, when it comes to flat irons, there are certain differences:
- The Ceramic Type: Such models feature ceramic plates to ensure even distribution of heat.
- The Ionic Type: Moisture is trapped in your hair through ionic technology for adding a shinier look.
- The Tourmaline Type: They feature plates coated in ground tourmaline dust.
- The Titanium Type: These models feature titanium. They heat up quicker.
- The Wet-to-Dry Type: Boasting a venting system, you can use them even when your hair is damp.
We have selected a range of the best flat irons to carry along while you travel. So, take your time to read through each and then determine which model will suit you the best.
What Makes a Flat Iron Great for Travel?
Not all flat irons will serve as the best option when you are planning to travel. There are certain features that need to be met.
So, let’s go over them.
Check the Voltage
As we have mentioned, the voltage requirements are different across the world. That's why the model you are interested in should have dual voltages. Always double-check before buying a unit. A hairstyling iron won't work if the voltage is too low. Also, it can be quite dangerous if you're trying to operate it in a country with high voltage.
Should be Portable
Of course, the flat iron you wish to travel with should be portable. Depending on the space you have, you might be able to travel with a normal-sized model. But, it’s recommended to get a travel-friendly unit if you don’t have a lot of carrying space.
FURIDEN Mini Flat Iron
The Weather
Always research the general weather you will encounter in the area being traveled to. Is that new location going to be very windy or humid? Is there going to be a lot of heat? You know your hair best. So, always opt for the type of hairstyling iron that can handle your hair when it encounters different types of weather.
The Plates
This relates to the point about the weather. As mentioned, different plates allow the flat iron to act in a particular manner. It's recommended while traveling to go for plates that can manage various types of hair conditions.
Mode of Operation
Opting for a battery-powered unit can prove beneficial during your travels. However, compared to wired units, they might not offer the best results. But a battery-operated unit is still something you should keep in mind for convenience.
Review of the Best Travel Flat Irons
We have created an in-depth review list of the best travel flat irons. We went over the pros and cons, buyer opinions, and more. Do read it to make the buying decision easier for yourself.
Best Overall:
FURIDEN Mini Flat Iron
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers of this mini flat iron from Furiden have shared their satisfaction. Many of them liked how it came with a glove to ensure your hand doesn't get burned. They also liked how this model can be turned on or off with a single rotation. The fact it can get very hot in only 15 seconds was greatly appreciated.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We decided to designate this particular model as the best because it fulfills our criteria. The compact size makes it very travel-friendly. It won't take up a lot of (already limited) space in your luggage. The 360-degree swivel cord helps you style your hair the way you prefer. The cord is tangle-free. It features two temperature settings and is very easy to use.
Who Will Use This Most
This is a great flat iron for those who will be traveling light. As mentioned, this model has a very compact design. It even comes with its own carrying bag. The presence of the glove is beneficial for those who don’t want to burn their hand while using this tool. It can be used by those who wish to curl or straighten their hair.
Bottom Line
All in all, the first selection on our list offers numerous benefits. Taking it along with you will be hassle-free. You won’t have to worry about a tangled cord as you go about styling your hair. It can be used for straightening, as well as curling. Not weighing much means your hand won’t grow tired from this unit.
Runner-up:
AmoVee 2-in-1 Travel Flat Iron Curling Iron
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
By going over the available feedback, we saw that recent buyers of this unit were pleased with what it had to offer. Many customers appreciated the size of this hair tool. They liked how it could easily fit into their medium-sized carrying bag. It also came with its own carrying pouch. Using this unit was easy.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We like how this model has two separate tools to help style your hair the way you want. You can use the flat iron portion to straighten hair strands or use the curling iron for adding curls. The black titanium barrel heats up quickly. So, you won’t have to wait long to begin using this device.
Who Will Use This Most
This is a versatile hair styling tool meant for those who wish to try different looks while they travel. Being a 2-in-1 unit, it is effortless for people to use. There’s no need at all to try and figure out how to use a regular flat iron to add curls because it already has a curling portion. It can be beneficial to those who don't want to be annoyed by tangled cords or have to wait too long for the unit to heat up.
Bottom Line
Summing it up, this hair styling tool is great for traveling with. It can be conveniently used for straightening and curling hair. This unit heats up very quickly. The 360-degree swivel cord does away with tangles. Also, the titanium ensures your hair looks shinier once you are done with the styling process.
Best for the Money:
LOVANI Hair Straightener
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The overall response to this travel flat iron has been very positive. Many buyers liked how it can easily fit into a mid-sized bag. They also appreciated how hassle-free it was to use. A lot of purchasers were delighted with the heat-resistant pouch. The pouch allowed them to store this unit, even while it was hot.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We like this model because of the featured ceramic tourmaline plates. Such plates make this unit one of the best to ensure your hair looks shiny as you straighten or curl the strands. The bag is also a great accessory. Being heat resistant does away with needing to wait for it to cool down before storing it away.
Who Will Use This Most
People with medium-length hair are sure to benefit from this model. It doesn't take long to heat up. And once you're done with the styling process, you won't have to wait for it to cool off. You can simply store it in the heat-resistant pouch. So, it's great for anyone who is in a hurry.
Bottom Line
Our "best for the money" selection brings a whole lot of convenience to your hairstyling process as you travel. It will increase the heat of the plates very quickly. The small size of this flat iron is perfect for placing inside a handbag. The heat-resistant carrying pouch sets it apart from the competition.
Best Chi Travel Flat Iron:
CHI Smart Gemz Titanium 1-Inch Flat Iron
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Many recent buyers were pleased with the results and portability provided by this hairstyling unit. They liked the appealing design of this flat iron. Several buyers have shared how their hair looked shinier than ever before after using this unit. They found it very easy to control because of the electronic display.
Why it Stands Out to Us
There’s a whole lot we like about this flat iron from Chi. The design is sure to attract many. Also, it features an electronic display at the top to provide you with the temperature. It has been constructed to ensure your hair doesn’t tangle while using this model. You won’t have to wait long for it to heat.
Who Will Use This Most
This model is capable of fully heating up in 30 seconds. This means it will prove beneficial to those who are in a hurry. It is also a great option for people who wish to give their hair an appealing shine. This model can be used to straighten, as well as curl, a range of hair types.
Bottom Line
Chi has a lot of amazing beauty products and this travel flat iron is no different. The color and design make it incredibly appealing. It can be conveniently used for a range of hair types. The display lets you know how hot the plates have become. The dimensions and weight increase portability.
Best Dual-Voltage Flat Iron for International Travel:
PHOEBE Mini Travel Flat Iron
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers who bought this flat iron recently shared they were pleased with how it performed. This hair tool has been specifically designed to be easy to carry while traveling. And it delivers on that promise. Many buyers have talked about how they could quickly style their hair in a hotel room when getting ready for a sightseeing tour.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The 7.9-inch length is one of the many things we like about this model. You can easily place it in a handbag. Meant to perform when traveling internationally, the dual-voltage feature ensures it will function wherever you are. The handle lock closes this unit to save more space. It is very light. So, you won't grow tired while using this model.
Who Will Use This Most
This is a reliable model for those who want a quick-heating flat iron. The heated ceramic tourmaline plates will give your hair a healthier look. It can be used by people who have short hair or wish to work on their bangs. And of course, it is perfect for those who want to travel light.
Bottom Line
All in all, this is another travel flat iron to consider if you are planning to travel internationally. The dual-voltage capacity ensures it will function in any country you will be staying in. Other than that, it is easy to handle and can give your hair a healthy shine to make you look your best.
Best Mini Travel Flat Iron:
HSI Professional Glider Mini 0.5" Flat Iron
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
According to what recent buyers of this unit have shared, several were pleased with the shine it gave their hair. They also liked how hassle-free this model was to use. Many stated they were able to easily move it through their hair without dealing with any troublesome tangles.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This unit is accompanied by numerous features that helped it be added to our review list. Of course, we like how the design makes it perfect to fit in a handbag. You can also use it for a variety of hairstyles. The eight microsensors to avoid heat spots and protect your hair is definitely unique.
Who Will Use This Most
As mentioned, this model can be used by anyone with coarse or frizzy hair. It is also a great option for those who feel their hair is very heat sensitive. The eight microsensors, as well as the plates, will be gentle on the hair strands. The size makes it very convenient for those who don't want to travel with a lot of luggage.
Bottom Line
Summing up, this is a reliable unit from HSI Professional. It is exceptionally travel-friendly due to the mini-design. You won't feel your arm beginning to tire as you move it around your hair. The microsensors are a great addition to ensure your hair remains safe. The final result will make your hair shinier than before.
Best Cordless Travel Flat Iron:
Cordless Mini Flat Iron
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
From what we could tell, there are many satisfied recent buyers of this product. Past users liked how it was able to operate without a cord. The cordless design helped them use this unit even in rooms without a nearby power outlet. They were pleased with how easy it was for them to try different hairstyles because of the three heat settings.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Of course, the biggest reason this particular flat iron stands out to us is because of the cordless design. Also, the 3D floating plates move, as needed, to ensure heat is uniformly distributed over your hair. The plates, using negative icons, also give your hair an appealing shine. The tail safety lock prevents scalding.
Who Will Use This Most
This is a great unit to travel with for those who are interested in using a cordless unit. You won’t have to deal with the hassle of finding a nearby power outlet to use this hair straightener. It can be used to straighten, as well as curl. This model can also be used on a child's hair.
Bottom Line
Wrapping it all up, we are quite pleased with what this unit has to offer. It will surely make an excellent addition for those wanting to purchase a cordless flat iron to travel with. The three temperature settings give you better control. It can be used for a variety of hair types without trouble.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Traveling With a Flat Iron
Of course, there are several advantages and certain disadvantages of traveling with a flat iron.
Let’s go over them!
Pros
Let’s first see all the benefits you’ll enjoy with a flat iron.
Stylistic Convenience
By traveling with a flat iron, you will be able to style your hair wherever you are. You won't have to stress about having a bad hair day. Simply use your trusty unit to give your hair the look you prefer and be ready to take in all of the sights.
No Worries About Voltage
High-quality flat irons feature dual voltages. Such a feature makes them highly versatile. You can easily use them anywhere in the world without stressing about damaging the internal wiring.
Different Styles
Portable flat irons are available in different styles when it comes to the power sources they need. With a battery-operated model, you can begin styling your hair without having the need to use a power outlet continuously.
Cons
At the same time, you must know the following limitations to be sure of your purchase:
Vulnerable to Breakage
Flat irons, by design, aren't the most durable hairstyling tools. So, if you don't make sure to pack a unit properly, there is a high chance of your device breaking in transit. The slightest forced movement in the plates could lead to the unit not working efficiently at all.
Cord Issues
If you travel with a wired unit, you might run into an issue if the cord is too small to reach the power outlet in the room you are in. During such a case, a battery-powered unit will be beneficial. But then again, battery-powered units don't always offer the best results.
Conclusion
Wrapping it all up, we hope our "Best Travel Flat Irons" review list and buyer’s guide proved helpful to you. We went over numerous different models to bring you the best of the best in the market. Again, always remember whether or not a unit has the voltage capacity that will be standard for the area being traveled to.
Travel safe!
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