Buying guide for best travel irons
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Clothes often end up wrinkled after spending hours in a suitcase, but taking a travel iron on your trip can help. Compact yet capable, the best travel irons won’t take up too much space in your bag and can quickly remove wrinkles from your clothing with the power of steam.
Although small in size, travel irons have versatile settings to suit different fabric needs. Because they are designed for travel, quality models have dual-voltage settings to match different countries’ electrical outlets and come with a travel pouch to carry it in.
While handheld garment steamers are nice alternatives to classic irons, a two-in-one model, such as our favorite travel iron, the Rowenta Pro Compact Steam Travel Iron, works like a traditional iron but can also be used vertically to steam clothing on a hanger.
Editors’ favorites for 2025
Editors’ Picks
Size: 4.88” H | Weight: 1.5 lb | Wattage: 1,000 W | Number of Settings: 3 | Attachments: None
There are certain features that are essential for a travel iron, and the Rowenta Pro Compact Steam Travel Iron checks all of the boxes. From powerful performance to a lightweight foldable design, we love everything about this iron because it’s made with travelers in mind.
Powered by 1,000 watts, the steam that this iron produces tackles wrinkles and refreshes your favorite travel outfits in no time. It heats up in seconds so you can iron quickly and get on with your trip plans. You can also use it horizontally on a board or vertically on hanging clothes.
In addition to the power, it features 200 tiny steam holes that deliver an impressive amount of steam. The tank holds 2 ounces of water for long ironing sessions and the sleek stainless steel soleplate has an angled tip for reaching every corner and crevice while ironing.
Travelers will also appreciate the dual-voltage settings that make it suitable for international travel.
In addition to being small and lightweight, this iron stands out for its folding handle. This feature makes it even more compact so it takes up minimal space wherever you pack it. It also comes with its own travel pouch to carry it in. Overall, its numerous must-have features and travel-ready design make it easy for us to recommend it as our top pick.
Great Value
Size: 7.9” L x 3.6” W | Weight: 1.2 lb | Wattage: 800 W | Number of Settings: 3 | Attachments: None
If you are an infrequent traveler or on a tight budget, the Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot Travel Steam Iron is a solid choice. While it’s available at a low price, it has features and functions that travelers need to keep their clothes looking their best despite being stuffed in a suitcase.
Three steam settings and the ability to be used vertically or horizontally earn this steam iron points for versatility. You can hang clothes or place them on a flat surface while you grip the comfortably contoured handle and your work will be done in minutes. There are no worries if you need a little extra steam thanks to the steam boost button. You’ll be able to see when water needs added as the tank is transparent and has a vivid fill line.
At 800 watts, this iron isn’t as powerful as some competitors, but it still removes wrinkles like a premium model. The stainless steel soleplate glides over fabrics with ease, which simplifies ironing clothes on flat surfaces.
It’s not only easy to afford, but the compact size and lightweight build means it will fit most bags without adding a lot of unwanted weight. We think that all of these features make the Hot-2-Trot the best deal in travel irons.
Best 2-in-1 Travel Iron
Size: 7.5" L x 5.8" W x 13" H | Weight: NA | Wattage: 1,200 W | Number of Settings: 2 | Attachments: Fabric brush, soft cushion and creaser
No soleplate, no problem — the 1,200-watt Conair GS23 Extreme Steam Handheld Fabric Steamer with Dual Heat forces a generous amount of steam through the steam slot to make quick work of eliminating wrinkles from all types of fabrics. To accomplish this effectively, it comes with three attachments — one for standard materials, another for delicates and a creaser for folds and pleats.
It also has two steam settings plus a continuous-steam button, so no job is too small or too large for it to tackle. Able to heat up in about 40 seconds, it has an indicator light to let you know when it’s ready to use. It produces steam for up to 15 minutes before needing a refill. The tank is removable, which makes it simple to fill with water under a faucet.
Not only do we recommend this steamer for its user-friendly features and impressive performance, but we also like the lightweight, trim design that fits nicely in a suitcase or carry-on. Additionally, we love that it’s versatile for use around the house, as it can be used to steam items such as upholstery and drapes.
Best for Temperature Control
Size: 6.53” L x 3.96” W | Weight: 1.7 lb | Wattage: 1,080 W | Number of Settings: Variable | Attachments: None
Sunbeam is a top manufacturer of standard and travel irons, and the Sunbeam Compact Travel Iron is one of our favorites. Weighing less than 2 pounds, it won’t feel heavy in your luggage yet offers the features that will refresh and de-wrinkle your clothes in minutes.
Although small, this iron doesn’t skimp on features. The easy variable controls are straightforward when it comes to selecting the perfect setting for all types of fabrics. The soleplate is made of stainless steel that’s designed to keep clothes from sticking, which is important when you want to look your best on trips.
Featuring a 1,080-watt motor and easy-to-fill water tank, this little powerhouse produces a lot of steam and has a built-in tank with a flip-top lid for quick refills. When you need extra steam, the quick-shot button is at your fingertips. What’s more, the soft-coated handle is comfortable to hold while you work. Plus, if you’re traveling outside of the United States, the dual-voltage switch makes it a versatile choice.
Most Versatile
Size: 11.81” L x 8.66” W x 6.69” H | Weight: 2.95 lb | Wattage: 1,875 W | Number of Settings: 5 | Attachments: None
Some travelers take trips for fun, others for business or special occasions. For those who have suits or gowns to steam, the Rowenta Pure Force 2-in-1 DR8822 Handheld Iron & Steamer is an outstanding choice. A powerful option with an 1,875-watt motor, it’s perfect for major clothes steaming jobs.
This iron can be used on clothing on a flat surface or hanger, as it can be used vertically or horizontally. The tough motor emits steam through 300 steam holes in the stainless steel soleplate, so there’s almost no steaming task that it can’t handle. It has five steam settings for different types of fabrics. As if all these capabilities weren’t enough, it can also be set to produce a robust burst or continuous steam for fast and effective performance.
We also appreciate that this model has a digital display and clear, easy-to-fill tank so you can see how much water is left. Keep in mind that it’s larger and heavier than other models we recommend, but this shouldn’t be a deal-breaker considering all that it has to offer.
How we analyzed
When researching the best travel irons, we looked at more than 50 irons to create our curated list of top models that includes both classic and handheld options. Wattage, settings, tanks, soleplates and steam output are some of the top features we assessed. We also wanted to know if each model had dual voltage to work in international electrical outlets. Additionally, portability is an important feature of travel irons, so we considered size and weight to help shoppers pick models that fit neatly in their bags. We also looked for extras such as travel bags and attachments. Because consumer feedback is important to our product analysis, we checked out what buyers had to say about their purchases.
Key features to consider
Types
There are two main types of travel irons: classic and handheld. Both types of irons are available in travel sizes that are compact and easy to carry in a bag. They work similarly, using heat and steam to eliminate wrinkles.
Classic irons are similar to those commonly found in homes. They are used horizontally with clothes placed on a flat surface, such as an ironing board.
Handheld models are often referred to as fabric streamers and are typically used in a vertical position while clothes are hanging from a door, hook or closet rack. They may or may not have a soleplate.
Two-in-one models work as both a classic iron and a handheld travel steam iron, as they are designed to be used both horizontally and vertically.
Soleplate materials
The soleplate is the flat, triangular part of standard irons that does the hard work of smoothing out the wrinkles by heating up and emitting steam through steam holes. It can be made of a number of different materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Stainless steel: These soleplates distribute heat quickly and evenly. Stainless steel is less expensive than ceramic and is pretty durable. However, it can get scratched on buttons or zippers, which can affect the iron’s ability to smoothly glide over the fabric.
- Ceramic: These soleplates have a metal base, such as stainless steel, aluminum or titanium alloy, that is covered in ceramic. Ceramic is an excellent nonstick surface that heats evenly and smoothly glides over most fabrics. Ceramic works well on synthetic materials because it’s less likely to stick than stainless steel or aluminum. On the downside, the dyes used in natural fabrics can stain a ceramic soleplate, and on inexpensive irons, the ceramic may crack or peel.
- Aluminum: If quick touchups are your norm, you might consider a travel iron with an aluminum soleplate. Aluminum is lightweight and inexpensive compared to stainless steel or ceramic, but it tends to stick more easily than other materials.
Our top picks: Types and soleplate materials
- Rowenta Compact Steam Travel Iron: We love that this iron can be used horizontally and vertically. The stainless steel soleplate delivers an impressive amount of steam thanks to its 200 steam holes.
- Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot Travel Steam Iron: Fabrics won’t stick to this compact classic iron’s well-made stainless steel soleplate.
- Conair GS23 Extreme Steam Handheld Fabric Steamer with Dual Heat: This handheld model doesn’t have a soleplate, but it does produce lots of wrinkle-removing steam.
- Sunbeam Compact Travel Iron: Made by a top brand, this iron is easy to use horizontally or vertically. The stainless steel soleplate is stick-resistant.
- Rowenta Pure Force 2-in-1 DR8822 Handheld Iron & Steamer: Featuring a large stainless steel soleplate, this versatile iron can be used on flat surfaces or hanging items.
Portability
Corded vs. cordless
Cordless travel irons usually come with a charging base, which can add bulk while traveling. These models aren’t as efficient as corded irons, nor can they sustain the high temperatures of corded models. That doesn’t mean cordless irons don’t have their place. If you’re traveling to a destination where you may not have access to electricity, a cordless travel iron will give you a limited amount of ironing time. Cordless models are also nice if you don’t want to be limited by cord length. However, the cord of most quality travel irons is around 8 feet in length, which is more than enough for most consumers’ needs.
Weight and size
There is no standard size for a travel iron, and just because it says “travel” in the description doesn’t mean it’s compact and lightweight. Travel irons can weigh anywhere from 5 to 30 ounces. As you search for the right model, consider how much ironing you do while you travel and the types of clothing you’ll need to iron. Also keep in mind that smaller irons heat up more quickly, but large travel irons work better if you have a lot of clothing to iron because they have a water tank with a larger capacity.
Foldable design
Some travel irons have handles that fold. This makes them more compact so they take up less space in a bag. When it’s time to iron, simply unfold the handle and it’s ready to work.
Our top picks: Portability
- Rowenta Compact Steam Travel Iron: You won’t have any trouble finding room in your bag for this 1.5-pound iron, as the handle folds to make it smaller.
- Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot Travel Steam Iron: Weighing 1.2 pounds, this portable, lightweight Sunbeam steam iron is perfect for travel on a budget.
- Conair GS23 Extreme Steam Handheld Fabric Steamer with Dual Heat: Although it has attachments, this handheld steam iron is compact and easy to take anywhere.
- Sunbeam Compact Travel Iron: At just 1.5 pounds, this steam iron is easy to carry.
- Rowenta Pure Force 2-in-1 DR8822 Handheld Iron & Steamer: Though it’s a heavier option at nearly 3 pounds, this handheld steam iron fits nicely in a bag and is great for traveling.
Temperature and settings
Heating time
The higher the wattage of the travel iron, the quicker it will heat up. If you’re often ironing at the last minute, a high-wattage model will probably work best for you. Irons with a steam feature will take longer to warm, but there are some models that can be ready to steam in as little as 24 seconds.
Variable temperature
Travel irons vary in their temperature range. If you know you’ll be ironing delicate fabrics like silk, look for an iron with temperatures around 300 degrees. Conversely, if you iron cotton or linen, you’ll need an iron with a high temperature of around 445 degrees.
Steam and steam shot
Travel irons with steam generally cost more, but if most of your clothes are made of natural materials, steam is a must. A steam-shot feature can be even more convenient when traveling. With steam shot, you press a button to release one large burst of steam. If you’re in a hurry, a steam shot can get things smoothed right before you walk out the door. A vertical steam feature allows you to steam garments while they’re still on the hanger. If you’re worried about damaging delicate fabrics, an iron with vertical steam is your best bet.
Digital controls
Digital controls have become more common on travel irons in the last few years. They add to the price but also add convenience. However, travel irons aren’t very big, and sometimes the digital display can be hard to read. If you have poor eyesight, a travel iron with manual controls might be easier to use.
Our top picks: Temperature and settings
- Rowenta Compact Steam Travel Iron: We love how easy this iron’s settings are to use, and how much steam it produces while ironing.
- Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot Travel Steam Iron: This iron may be affordable, but it still has multiple steam settings and a steam shot function for effective wrinkle removal.
- Conair GS23 Extreme Steam Handheld Fabric Steamer with Dual Heat: Fast heating and two steam settings make this model an effective fabric steamer.
- Sunbeam Compact Travel Iron: You can choose variable steam settings or constant steam output with this compact iron.
- Rowenta Pure Force 2-in-1 DR8822 Handheld Iron & Steamer: This model stands out for versatility thanks to its five steam settings.
Additional features and attachments
Water tank
Removing wrinkles from cotton, linen and other natural fabrics usually requires steam. A large water tank enables you to iron more items before you need to refill. However, capacity isn’t as important in travel irons as the visibility of the tank. A clear tank lets you keep an eye on the amount of water that’s still in the iron.
Dual Voltage
Not all countries have the same voltage requirements for their electrical systems. For example, the United States and most of North America have a standard 120 voltage while most countries in Asia, Europe and the Middle East use 240 volts. Many quality travel irons have a switch for both 120 and 240 volts so travelers can use them in many parts of the world.
Attachments
Some travel irons come with attachments that fit over the steam output component. These extras are most commonly found on handheld models and make them effective for use on different types of fabrics.
Auto shutoff
Most travel irons automatically shut off after a set period of time as a safety precaution.
Our top picks: Additional features and attachments
- Rowenta Compact Steam Travel Iron: We appreciate how easy this iron is to fill and that the tank holds 2 ounces of water. Dual-voltage means you can use it almost anywhere in the world.
- Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot Travel Steam Iron: For a small option, this dual-voltage iron’s tank holds enough water to make your ironing tasks a snap.
- Conair GS23 Extreme Steam Handheld Fabric Steamer with Dual Heat: We love this steam iron’s three attachments that make it easy to steam different types of materials.
- Sunbeam Compact Travel Steam Iron: The tank of this iron is easy to see and fill and the dual-voltage switch is simple to operate.
- Rowenta Pure Force 2-in-1 DR8822 Handheld Iron & Steamer: With a clear tank, you can easily see when it’s time to add water to this iron.
Tips
- If you’re traveling outside the United States, look for a travel iron with dual voltage. Electrical appliances in the U.S. are 120 volts, but in some countries the standard is 240 volts.
- A vertical steam setting allows you to remove wrinkles while the item is draped or hanging from a hanger or chair. Vertical steam works well on dresses and the most delicate of fabrics.
- “UL” or “ETL” stamped on a travel iron indicates that it has passed third-party safety tests. These tests are not required, and manufacturers have to pay extra for their products to be tested.
FAQ
Q. How much do travel irons cost?
A. For less than $15, you can find a travel iron with manual controls, dual voltage system, steam shot, and power indicator light. Irons at this price are usually some of the smallest you’ll find on the market.
From $15 to $35, you’ll find slightly larger irons with a few extra features like quick heat times and longer cords. You’ll also find models with dual voltage and some that come with a measuring cup that makes it easier to fill the water tank.
If you spend more than $35, you’ll find models with 1,000 watts of power and several steam options, including steam shot and vertical steam. Some have folding handles to make them more compact when traveling.
Q. Do travel irons come with a warranty?
A. Most, but not all, travel irons come with a warranty from the manufacturer, though the length of coverage varies. Look for an iron with at least a one-year warranty, although the longer the warranty the better.
Q. Do I need an adapter for my travel iron?
A. While many models have dual voltage, most will still require an adapter because plug design varies by country.
Q. What kind of travel iron works best for delicate fabrics like silk and chiffon?
A. Delicate fabrics are sensitive to temperature, which means they’re easily melted. You want a travel iron that works well at low temperatures but also has a nonstick surface. A ceramic soleplate will glide more easily than stainless steel or aluminum over delicate fabrics. You may want to look for a travel iron with a vertical steam feature so you can remove wrinkles while your garments are hanging up.
