Best Travel Irons for Holidays and Vacation

Review & Comparison, Last Update January 9, 2024
Are you looking for a powerful and functional iron that you can use at home as well as take to go? A travel iron is what you need. ...Read more
PROS
The Fabric Selector allows you to accurately adjust the temperature of the steam iron for all types of fabric—from synthetics and silk to wool. This not only ensures even distribution of heat, but also helps prevent damage to the fabrics when ironing.
CONS

According to some users, pressing the steam button is a bit cumbersome.

OUR VERDICT

The Oliso M2 Steam Iron boasts the power of a full-sized iron in a travel-friendly design. Thanks to the Diamond Coated Ceramic Sole plate, it virtually glides over fabrics, while the dual-purpose SoleMate makes it safe to store it in the face-down position.

detailed parameters
Power

1000 W

Heating time

45 sec

Water tank capacity

~ 4 oz

Weight

2.27 pounds

Dimensions

10" x 5" x 6.5"

Cord length

8 feet

Usability

Fabric selector & One-press steam control, Diamond coated ceramic soleplate, Precision tip, Pivot cord, Universal voltage

In the box

Dual-purpose SoleMate

Warranty

3 years

PROS

The model's precision tip makes getting into pleats and ironing between buttons, along the seams, and under the collars so much easier. The Microsteam 200 stainless steel soleplate doesn't just glide perfectly across all fabrics but also features improved steam distribution with its 200 steam holes.

CONS

Doesn't include an adapter for Europe and other regions. 

OUR VERDICT

Packing is always a hassle and traveling, while often the best and the most exciting thing that we do, can be a nightmare from certain perspectives. But, with this powerful and functional travel iron, you should be able to enjoy just about every aspect of it and take your travel game to a new level.

detailed parameters
Power

1000 W

Heating time

A few minutes

Water tank capacity

2.4 oz

Weight

1.6 pounds

Dimensions

8.6" x 4.9" x 3.9"

Cord length

8 feet

Usability

Microsteam stainless steel soleplate, Adjustable temperature, consistent steam, burst-of-steam button, Vertical-steam option, Folding handle, Dual Voltage, Precision tip

In the box

Travel pouch

Warranty

1 year limited 

PROS

It takes the iron's soleplate only 15 seconds to heat up - a great feature when it comes to light touch-ups.

CONS

Some users would like the power cord to be detachable.

OUR VERDICT

Extremely compact and convenient to use Steamfast iron is one of the most popular travel irons. Simple temperature controls and tapered soleplate make ironing any fabric an effective and hassle-free process.

detailed parameters
Power

400 W

Heating time

15/60 sec

Water tank capacity

1.4 oz

Weight

0.96 pounds

Dimensions

5.3" x 3.1" x 2.9"

Cord length

7.5 feet

Usability

Non-stick soleplate, 1-touch steam control, Dual voltage, Indicator light, Variable temperature

In the box

Travel bag, Plastic measuring cup

Warranty

1 year

PROS

Equipped with the Shot of Steam option, the Sunbeam iron can remove even the deepest creases effortlessly. 

CONS

Doesn't include a light indicator that signals whether the iron is on or off. 

OUR VERDICT

Whether you're going to iron delicate or firm fabric, use an iron in the USA or abroad, this Sunbeam model is just what you need. Choose the effectiveness of a full-sized steam iron buying this compact appliance.

detailed parameters
Power

800 W

Heating time

A few minutes

Water tank capacity

Not specified

Weight

1.14 pounds

Dimensions

6.53" x 3.4" x 3.11"

Cord length

8 feet

Usability

Dual Voltage System, Indicator light, Variable temperature, Soft touch handle, Non-stick soleplate 

In the box

Just the iron in a box

Warranty

1-year limited

PROS

The iron comes equipped with 3 heat power levels ranging between 140˚F and 428˚F. The anti-drip design effectively prevents harmful skin burns and frustrating water stains.

CONS

The ready indicator isn't always accurate. 

OUR VERDICT

Ivation IVATI02 doesn't deliver all that much on the power front but the model's functionality and overall utility outweigh any shortcomings in that department. Considering that, as well as the iron's size and weight, you'll definitely be able to benefit from this device on the road.

detailed parameters
Power

420 W

Heating time

15 sec

Water tank capacity

1.1 oz

Weight

1.08 pounds

Dimensions

5.3" x 2.9" x 3.1" 

Cord length

7.5 feet

Usability

3 heat power levels with temperature range 140˚F - 428˚F, Anti-drip design, Non-stick ceramic soleplate, 1-touch steam control, Variable voltage, Ready indicator

In the box

Plastic measuring cup 

Warranty

1 year

Packs a Punch in a Travel-Friendly Design

Those who often travel for business or pleasure and are searching for the perfect iron to take with them should definitely consider the Oliso M2. This steam iron packs the punch of a full-sized iron in a travel-friendly design, making it a great pick for frequent travelers, as well as seamstresses and hobbyists who need an iron for craft use.

To start off, the Oliso M2 provides an impressive 1000W of power. Thanks to this, it can make an easy job of removing stubborn creases from all of your clothes, be it delicate silk, synthetic or tough jeans and wool. It's also remarkable that it reaches the set temperature in just around 45 seconds, so you can have it hot whenever you want.

Along with its powerful heating capacity, the Oliso iron also provides a powerful steam burst that will facilitate your ironing chores, allowing you to easily handle even some of the worst wrinkles in a short time.

Also included is a fabric selector, which will give you accurate control over the temperature. So, you can achieve excellent results each time, while also eliminating the risk of burn and damage to the fabrics.

Regarding ergonomics, the Oliso M2 has a fairly small size. Measuring 10 x 5 x 6.5 inches and weighing 2.27 lbs, it's just a fracture bigger than the other models reviewed, yet still compact enough to easily fit in your suitcase and leave plenty of room for your other travel essentials.

The Diamond Sparkle

No iron will be good enough without a high-quality soleplate. In regard to the Oliso M2 Mini Project Steam Iron, though, you have nothing to worry about. The manufacturer equipped it with a diamond ceramic soleplate, which has non-stick properties and is infused with natural materials, allowing it to effortlessly glide over all types of fabrics. Not to be left out is a precision tip that has a convenient design, making it easy to remove wrinkles from pleats, pockets, and other awkward details of clothes.

Safety of use is another important part that should be considered when choosing a steam iron. Luckily, the Oliso M2 has a well-thought-out design. Along with the iron itself, the package also includes a high-temperature silicone stand that not only protects your ironing board from scorching, but also acts a safe storage space between ironing sessions.

To make the use of the iron even more convenient, the Oliso M2 was fitted with a long 180° pivot 8-foot cord, so you won't be limited in movement and can actually enjoy ironing.

In all, the Oliso M2 Mini Project Steam Iron is a practical choice from many perspectives. It packs the punch of a full-sized iron in a compact design while also providing accurate temperature control and rapid heat-up, making it a good choice for pretty much everyone.

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B08P3VWLHL

Step up Your Travel Game

Want to take your travel game to a whole new level? The Rowenta DA1560 might be able to help you with that. How exactly will it be able to accomplish that goal? Well, it definitely has something to do with the model's 1000W power. Though still a travel iron, it packs more of a regular iron punch. The model heats up in no time at all and it makes your clothes look neat and fresh just as fast.

With these travel appliances, part of the sell is ergonomics. There's only so much space in your suitcase and only so many items you can pack into it. With the Rowenta DA1560, it shouldn't be a problem. The iron features 8.6" x 4.9" x 3.9" in overall dimensions and 1.6 pounds in weight, so it isn't larger or heavier than your ordinary travel model. On top of that, the iron's handle folds flat, making storage or transportation even more convenient.

There's not much that you get from this deal other than the excellent iron. We like the drawstring cloth bag as it effortlessly serves as a nice little travel pouch. But we would like to see a European adapter as well. Unfortunately, it's not part of the package, so you'll have to buy one separately if you wish to travel abroad.

You're the Captain of this Ship

The somewhat underwhelming package is definitely negated by the quality of the iron itself. It just does so much and does it so well. The model's precision tip makes getting into pleats and ironing between buttons, along the seams, and under the collars so much easier. The vertical steam option doesn't tie you to an ironing board, which is always a plus.

No travel iron is complete without a dual-voltage switch. But the model in question executes this function better than most. Equipped with 2 heating elements that ensure the iron is as powerful at 120 volts as it is at 240 volts, it is able to deliver a full range of ironing temperatures.

The soleplate is the soul of an iron (pardon the pun). Aside from the aforementioned precision tip, the highly polished and just as effective Microsteam 200 stainless steel soleplate doesn't just glide perfectly across all fabrics but also features improved steam distribution with its 200 steam holes.

Another part of the catch here is the amount of control that this iron gives you. The adjustable temperature function makes it easier to work with different fabrics. With consistent steam, you'll be able to sift through piles of laundry without breaking a sweat. And, for particularly stubborn fabrics, there's always the burst-of-steam button that will happily lend you a helping hand.

Again, packing is always a hassle and traveling, while often the best and the most exciting thing that we do, can be a nightmare from certain perspectives. But, with the Rowenta DA1560, you should be able to enjoy just about every aspect of it and take your travel game to a new level.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $37.42
Stock In stock
ASIN B001RNOQIQ

Irreplaceable Helper

Functional, compact, and easy-to-use, Steamfast travel iron is a must-have appliance to take with you when you pack your luggage to go abroad. This SF-717 model from Steamfast features a dual voltage option so your clothes will look neat wherever you go. Even if you travel within the USA, this appliance will become your irreplaceable assistant in taking care of your garments. Although the power of this iron is less than in other similar models – only 400 Watts – it is enough for the iron to reach the maximum temperature of 360°F in the twinkling of an eye. The iron heats up to the maximum temperature in 60 seconds while only 15 seconds are enough for it to reach the lowest temperature setting. When the iron is heated up to the necessary temperature, the indicator light will inform you that the iron is ready to use. 

Thanks to the ability to work in one of several temperature settings, the Steamfast travel iron can handle both thin and thick fabric. One more advantage of this appliance is that it is a steam iron. It is equipped with a built-in water reservoir of 1.4 oz. It’s easy to track the water level through small windows and easy to fill it with a measuring cup that comes in the box. We’d also like you to pay attention to the rubber seal of the water reservoir that prevents leaks. The last but not the least feature to take notice of is a compact size and weight of the iron. The SF-717 fits your palm snugly and weighs less than a pound so ironing becomes as easy as anything. Also, don’t overlook a travel bag that comes in the box and makes storage and transportation of the Steamfast iron more convenient.

Safety Comes First

Although travel irons are less powerful than those you use at home, they can also be quite dangerous. That’s why it’s important to follow safety rules every time you use one. Here are some pieces of advice from the manufacturer:

  • Check the power cord before every use. It shouldn’t be damaged. The manufacturer doesn’t recommend using extension cords with the iron. Actually, you might not even need one since the length of the power cord is 7.5 feet that is quite long to provide you with the freedom of movement and convenient ironing.
  • Do not leave the appliance unattended. Always keep an eye on your children or elderly relatives who use the iron. Do not touch a soleplate when the iron is in use. You’ll know that the appliance is heated up when light indicator lights up. Avoid steam touching your skin.
  • Let the iron cool down completely before storing and transportation. It might take up to 30 minutes. The iron should be stored on its stand on a flat stable surface.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $19.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B001DTHPEQ

Handles Any Creases

Whether you need to carry out light touch-ups or remove deep creases from your favorite clothes when you’re not at home, the Sunbeam travel iron will help you handle these tasks. What makes this appliance perfect for taking on vacation or a business trip? Let’s see. First of all, this model has a dual voltage feature that allows you to use it in the USA as well as in European countries. Secondly, the iron measures 6.53" x 3.4" x 3.11" and weighs 1.14 pounds so it won't take up much space in your suitcase nor will it add much load to your luggage. Probably, the most important thing that makes this iron an irreplaceable assistant on your trips is its functionality. 

The Sunbeam appliance has 800-Watt power that is enough to handle creases even on firm fabric effortlessly. Just like the majority of portable travel irons out there, this model has variable temperature controls so that you can select the suitable one depending on the type of fabric you have at hand. It’s easy to set the necessary temperature with an easy-to-use dial located right at your fingertips. As soon as the iron reaches the heat level you’ve chosen, the indicator light will tell you that it’s ready to use. 

One more thing that allows the Sunbeam appliance to handle any types of fabric is its non-stick soleplate that glides over any material effortlessly. In addition to various temperature settings, this model has Shot of Steam feature that will definitely come in handy when it comes to ironing thick types of fabrics or deep creases. To use this option, you need to press two buttons located on both sides of the iron’s body. Thanks to this very design, the Sunbeam iron is convenient to use for right-handed as well as left-handed people. To use the steam feature, you also need to have water inside the iron’s reservoir. It is quite large and transparent so you always have full control over the water level. Finally, don’t overlook the pointed tip of this model that makes ironing of small details such as pockets, collars, lapels, etc. as easy as anything.

Elaborate Design

Design is another important thing that should be taken into account when you choose a travel iron. We bet you want your new appliance not only to function properly but also be convenient to use. The manufacturer of the Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot iron has done its best to make this model as usable as possible. So it has very compact dimensions to fit any palm size perfectly and comes with controls arranged conveniently right at your fingertips. You can easily reach temperature dial, steam on/off switch, and Shot of Steam buttons when you need to use one of these options. It will also be easy for you to refill the water reservoir since its lid is located on the top of the iron.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $14.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B0057UMYAW

15 Seconds to Heat Up

Ivation IVATI02 isn't necessarily the most well-balanced product, mostly because its power is underwhelming compared to just about any high-end travel iron. But we can't say that the model doesn't make up for any shortcomings in that department.

Sure, it isn't powerful but, functionality-wise, this is an excellent iron. It is packed with just about every feature present on the market today and that is impressive considering the below-average price tag that the model comes with.

First and foremost, we like that the model comes equipped with 3 heat power levels ranging between 140˚F and 428˚F. Different fabrics require different temperatures, so it is always nice to have additional options.

Again, its power is hardly impressive. But one could argue it was sacrificed in favor of heating time. More often than not, it takes the iron precisely 15 seconds to sufficiently heat up and be ready for work and that is nothing short of impressive.

Its weight and overall dimensions are great too, measuring just 5.3" x 2.9" x 3.1" and barely going above 1 pound in the weight department.

Nevertheless, the model's cord is just as long as it is in other, larger travel irons. With 7.5 feet in length, the cord will allow you to position the device relatively far from the electrical socket.

One-Touch Control

Though the model always heats up really quick compared to even the most expensive travel irons on the market right now, the Ready indicator that it incorporates is not always accurate. Generally speaking, we would recommend waiting a few seconds after the indicator lights up before putting the iron to work.

Of course, certain things here aren't all that different compared to just about every other portable iron today. The non-stick ceramic soleplate does not disappoint but it doesn't necessarily impress either. The same thing can be said about its variable voltage functions: it's always nice when it is there but there's really nothing to talk about except that, well, it is there.

The one-touch steam control, on the other hand, is really nice, practical and convenient. With it, you'll be able to control the steam output whenever necessary without having to tinker with the dials. We've seen different anti-drip designs before but this right here is definitely one of the better implementations in this price range. It doesn't make the iron any less practical but effectively prevents harmful skin burns and frustrating water stains.

Once more, Ivation IVATI02 doesn't deliver all that much on the power front but the model's functionality and overall utility outweigh any shortcomings in that department. Considering that, as well as the iron's size and weight, you'll definitely be able to benefit from this device on the road.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $29.99
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B01AK9ZUGO

What Is a Travel Iron?

Do you travel a lot and want to look neat every day? Don’t waste money on hotel services and take a travel iron with you. With this compact and lightweight appliance at hand, your every clothing item, be it your favorite pullover or evening wear, will look like you’ve just bought it. Probably, there’s no need to explain what a travel iron is since you can guess its purpose from its name. This type of iron doesn’t differ much from a conventional iron you use at home. Just like appliances for home use, these ones often feature adjustable temperature settings, steam function, and other useful options. But unlike regular irons, they are more compact and lightweight so that you can pack them in your luggage effortlessly. One more thing you should keep in mind when looking for a portable iron is its power that is less in comparison with ordinary irons. As a rule, average power of a good mini iron is about 800-900 Watts. Although less power means less heat, it is enough to handle ironing tasks during vacation or a business trip. Read further to compare most popular irons represented on the market and choose the best travel iron to meet your needs.

A lint remover is another compact appliance that will help you take care of your garments wherever you go. You can even carry it in your handbag or backpack to your office, gym, etc and always look perfect.

What Features to Compare

Power

No matter what iron you’re looking for, a steam iron for home use or a mini travel iron, you want it to do its job well. So, the first thing that should be taken into consideration is its power. As it was already mentioned, irons you take to go are less powerful than those you use at home. Yet, the rule “More power means more heat and efficiency” works with portable irons, too. So, if your clothes are mainly made of silk or another delicate fabric, irons with 400-watt power will handle their ironing effortlessly. If you need to iron different types of fabric, including cotton and wool, more powerful appliances (800-900 watts) will meet your needs better.

Features

Pay attention to the features of an iron such as weight, size, heating time, and water tank capacity. You want to know the iron’s weight and size, since you should understand how much space it will take in your suitcase and how easy it will be for you to use it. Heating time should also be taken into consideration, as it determines how soon you’ll be able to start ironing after you turn the appliance on. In general, small irons heat up during one minute. If you choose an iron with a water tank, it means that it’s not simply a mini iron, it’s a travel steam iron that can make ironing easier if a steam option is used. The larger water tank is, the more clothing items you can iron without adding water often.

Usability

Finally, don’t overlook usability of an iron you choose. Adjustable temperature settings make an iron a universal appliance that can handle different types of fabrics. Irons with non-stick soleplate glide over your clothes easily. Moreover, if need be, cleaning this type of soleplate is a hassle-free process. Dual voltage option is a catch for you if you travel not only in your country but also abroad. The last but not the least features that add to the convenience of use of a travel iron are foldable handle and a detachable cord. If your iron can boast these features, its storage and transportation will be much easier.

Did you know?

Ironing is a part of everyday routine but we often make small mistakes that make this process long and tiring. Although ironing is really simple, we also manage to spoil our clothing when using an iron. That’s why we’d like to give you some recommendations on how to make ironing quick and effective. 

Fast ironing 

If you aren’t eager to spend hours of your free time on removing creases from a pile of clean clothes and linen, the first thing you should do is prepare for the ironing. By this we mean to choose the order in which you’re going to iron your items. Separate them into three piles – delicate (acrylic, nylon, silk), medium (wool), and thick (cotton, linen). Arranging your clothes in this order allows you to go from the lowest to the highest temperature setting gradually. One more thing that can speed up the ironing process is using aluminum foil under your ironing board cover. The thing is that aluminum reflects heat, thus, provides fast ironing on both sides of your garments. Also, it’s important to use the whole surface of an ironing board since you won’t have to move your clothes often to iron this or that part. 

Right ironing

It might sound strange but yes, you need to do ironing in the right way in order not to spoil your clothes. And the first step towards right ironing is following the proper technique. To put it simply, you need to make back-and-forth movements instead of circlular ones to avoid making more creases and stretching fabric. One more useful tip that makes your clothes look as if you’ve just bought them is ironing from the inside. By doing so, you’ll be able not only prevent the appearance of shiny marks that might often appear on dark fabrics but also avoid ironing buttons, zippers, and other decorative stuff that can melt under the heat of an iron.

Convenient ironing

We bet you want ironing to be not only an effective but also convenient process, so let’s see whether it’s possible. First of all, position your ironing board properly. You definitely don’t need it to be too short or too high – choose the most comfortable height. If you’re going to iron a pleated piece of clothing, for example, a skirt, it will be easy to do if you keep pleats in place with pins. When it comes to ironing cotton, it might be quite challenging. This type of fabric needs the highest temperature to be ironed but creases on cotton might be really stubborn. Thus, it’s recommended to iron cotton while it is damp. If you don’t like ironing damp clothes, use a steam option of your iron. One more thing that will make an ironing process simpler is doing it in a well-light room. Not only will you protect your eyes from stress but will also see the tiniest wrinkles that should be smoothed. 

Clean ironing

Of course, one of the most important conditions for effective ironing is cleanliness. You need to check the soleplate of your iron from time to time and clean it if need be. Also, it’s crucial to iron only clean clothes. The thing is that if you have a stain on your favorite sweater, the influence of high temperature can make it more stubborn and difficult to remove. Make sure that your ironing board’s cover is clean, too.

FAQ:

Q: What water should I use in my travel steam iron?
A: As a rule, the manufacturers of steam irons recommend using tap water if you need to use a steam option. However, tap water can be hard, thus, cause a lot of limescale in a water tank. Moreover, limescale can clog steam holes and lead to malfunction of an iron. So if you have hard tap water, you can dilute it with 50% of distilled one. Or, you can boil and cool down tap water to make it softer. But keep in mind that using only distilled water isn’t a good idea since it can cause bad steam performance. Finally, don’t use additives like scented ironing water or softener in order to prevent your iron from damage.

Q: How important is vertical steam option in travel irons? Should I consider it before making a choice?
A: A vertical steam option is a great benefit in a travel iron but it isn’t one of its main functions. It can really make ironing of some delicate clothes easier and safer. For example, steam ironing your favorite evening dress made of delicate fabric seems to be a sensible decision since there’s no risk to spoil it as you don’t touch it with a hot soleplate. So before choosing an iron with or without steam option, think how many delicate clothes you have and how often you’ll need to use vertical steaming.

Q: What soleplate will perform best in a mini travel iron?
A: Taking into account the fact that soleplates are made of different materials, it might be difficult to make a choice. However, all of them have their own benefits. Ceramic soleplates can boast great heat conduction, consequently, even heat distribution. Moreover, ceramics eliminates static that is very important when you iron silk or similar fabric. As well as ceramic ones, stainless steel and non-stick soleplates provide even heat distribution. They are also considered to be durable and easy to clean. Non-stick soleplates, in their turn, glide over any fabric effortlessly and don’t catch it. Titanium soleplates are commonly covered with aluminum and are corrosion resistant. Plus, they heat up and transfer heat very fast. And one of their great advantages is that they are lightweight.

Q: What’s the best way to store and transport my portable travel iron?
A: The first thing you should remember when storing your iron is safety. Before sending your portable helper to a storage room, make sure it has cooled down completely. It’s necessary to do in order to avoid fire hazards. As soon as your iron is cool, storing it causes no problems taking into account compact size of portable models. Moreover, a lot of them have foldable handles or special space for convenient cord storage. The manufacturers often supply irons with a storage pouch to keep good condition of your iron when it’s not in use.

Q: How do I clean the soleplate of my travel iron?
A: The market is full of different solutions to clean the bottom of any iron, be it a steam one for home use or a portable model. One of the most widespread solutions is a special cleaning stick that removes stains quickly. However, you can also use something you can find in your kitchen and get great cleaning results. For example, by mixing water and baking soda in 1:2 proportion, you’ll get a perfect cleaning solution. Spread the mixture evenly over the soleplate surface and wipe it off with a damp cloth. Don’t forget to remove the mixture from steam holes with cotton swabs.

Sources:

1. Christina Woodger How to Buy the Best Steam Iron, Which?

2. Buying Guide: Irons, Harvey Norman.

3. Kyle Schurman The Best Irons You Can Buy to Smooth Out Wrinkles, BUSINESS INSIDER. September 20, 2017.

4. Clothes Iron, Wikipedia. January 2, 2018.

5. Steam Iron Buying Guide, Consumer Reports. January 2017.

6. How to Buy the Best Steam Iron or Steam Generator Iron, Good Housekeeping.

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