From frequent flyer-approved toiletry bottles to the very best carry-on suitcases, we’re no strangers to the fact that a little planning can go a long way in preventing stress when it comes to travel. So why shouldn’t the same go for your hair?
“I need tools that can easily fit into my luggage, and proven ones that I know will work,” explains celebrity colorist Tracey Cunningham. “I travel a lot for my clients, so I need to show up prepared and ready.” In addition to size and performance, celebrity colorist and owner of Homecoming Salon Rachel Bodt looks for multi-function tools that are also easy to clean. Meanwhile, Hannan Siddique, a professional hair stylist at David Mallett NYC, says to get a good power converter so you can use your favorite hair tools from anywhere in the world.
Whether you’re planning a destination getaway or just prepping for an upcoming business trip, packing the right hair tools means less time getting ready (and stressing about getting ready), and more time enjoying your destination. Ahead, we consulted expert hair stylists and colorists on the travel-friendly hair tools and products they’ve turned to time and time again.
Travel-friendly hair dryers
Harry Josh Ultra Light Pro Dryer Dermstore “This has been a favorite of mine for a while,” shares Cunningham. “It’s small and compact, isn’t noisy and still makes blow drying quick and easy.” In fact, it’s such a great option that she opts for it even when she’s not traveling. Nunzio Saviano, professional hair stylist and owner of Nunzio Saviano Salon, also recommends this lightweight hairdryer, sharing that he uses it in his salons. $349 at Dermstore
Gama Italy IQ Perfetto Hair Dryer Amazon One of Saviano’s all-time favorite travel-friendly hair dryers, he describes this futuristic-looking option as compact and lightweight, easy to pack and “powerful enough for thick, long hair.” From $390 at Amazon
InfinitiPRO By Conair DigitalAire Hair Dryer Ulta Celebrity hair stylist Laura Polko has been loving this super sleek and lightweight hair dryer. “It dries hair super-fast with less frizz, plus it has all the settings you’d need for any hairstyle you are looking to achieve,” she explains. “It’s an absolute must when traveling, especially for the girls like me that like to try out different styles.” $150 at Ulta
T3 Featherweight Compact Dermstore “Not only is this small and easy to travel with,” explains Bodt, “but it’s also a lot gentler on the hair.” That’s thanks to the dryer’s SoftAire technology, which packs enough power to dry larger sections of hair gently and quickly. $105 at Dermstore
Travel-friendly flat irons
Kristin Ess Hair NanoBlack Dual Voltage Travel Mini Flat Iron Ulta “This comes with me when I travel internationally,” explains Cunningham, “since I don’t have to worry about voltage issues abroad.” She likes the ¾” size, which is versatile enough to straighten hair and add quick waves, and the even heat distributed by its ceramic plates. $60 at Ulta
InfinitiPRO by Conair Tourmaline Ceramic Flat Iron Amazon “Hair can get really frizzy, especially when traveling and this flat iron is one of the best for reducing frizz,” shares Polko. “Its ceramic heater heats up in seconds, then reaches a stabilized temperature and maintains the heat level to avoid overheating,” she explains, “which is always great assurance when staying in hotels.” $40 $37 at Amazon
BaBylissPRO Mini Straightening Iron with Travel Pouch Ulta “A lot of my clients love this super compact option,” shares Bodt. An affordable, lightweight straightening iron option, it also comes with a ready-to-go travel pouch. $35 at Ulta
Harry Josh Cordless Ceramic Curling Wand 1-Inch Harry Josh Cordless tools make styling, especially in unfamiliar places, endlessly easier. Siddique and Perea are fans of this ceramic option, which you can simply charge up and throw in your travel bag. “Harry Josh irons are staples in my kit, and now my set bag,” shares Perea. Siddique adds that the