best dual travel curling iron

What’s the Best Travel Curling Iron? See Our Top 5 Picks

Hair , TOILETRIES

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For those of us with high-maintenance hair, traveling without the right tools is not an option. These are the best travel curling iron options for domestic and international trips to keep your luggage to a minimum!

Best Travel Curling Iron

Table of contents.

One of the biggest secrets to chic style is great hair and makeup — without these, it doesn’t matter how perfect your capsule wardrobe looks. Well-styled hair and makeup can create a polished look, even if you’re decked out in a pair of sneakers with jeans and a T-shirt.

Unfortunately, not all of us travelers are blessed with easy-to-maintain, smooth, glossy locks. So, we feel it’s worth it to sacrifice some suitcase space to make sure we have the best hair tools, like our favorite travel curling iron.

If a curling iron is on your must-have travel list, we’ve rounded up a few of the best travel curling iron options on the market. They are a collection of the most versatile and compaction travel curlers for your next trip!

Best Travel Curling Iron Reviews

Shop L’ANGE Le Duo 360° Airflow Styler: Amazon | Ulta

2-in-1 Travel Curling Iron

If you need to curl and straighten your hair while traveling, then a 2-in-1 travel hair curler is a great option. You have access to both tools without sacrificing the extra space.

This travel sized curling iron by L’ANGE doubles as a flat iron, to give you a variety in your hair without having to worry about carrying multiple items. Plus, it’s a dual voltage curling iron, which means you can cart it around to any country in the world and not have to worry about blowing a fuse.

I’ve always traveled with both a curling and flat iron (unless I’ve had my hair permanently straightened recently) so when I found this 2-in-1 travel hair curler, it was the perfect solution.

 You can choose your preferred heat with the adjustable temperature setting of 280°F-430°F. My hair is fine and wavy, but the roots carry some extra curl, so when I brought this on a four-week trip, it took a few extra glides.

All things considered, I have to say this 2-in-1 curling and straightening tool is one of the best travel curling iron tools out there. It works perfectly for the occasional curl and daily smoothing.

Looking for a dual voltage flat iron ? See our list of the best ones!

Hoson Mini Travel Hair Curling Iron

Dual Voltage Mini Curling Iron

If you prefer that your hair styling regime mimics a salon-style treatment, then the 1-inch Hoson Mini Hair Curling Iron is the ideal choice. This mini curling wand is your standard ceramic-coated curling iron but with a compact design for easy storage during your travels.

It’s an easy-to-carry mini curling iron that heats up quickly and creates smooth, shiny curls in seconds. It only takes 60 seconds to reach the hottest setting!

The 360° swivel cord allows you to move freely and flexibly without restriction anywhere. Curling iron has dual voltage compatible 110-220V.

Learn how to make your blowout last for days !

Conair Mini Pro 1″ Ceramic

A Travel Size Curling Iron that’s Budget-Friendly

If you need a budget-friendly travel size curling iron, then the ultra-tiny Conair Mini Pro iron is a great choice. It is compact and can easily fit in any bag or purse without you needing to sacrifice the space for other necessities.

This travel size curler heats up quickly and gets to a high enough temperature for you to curl thick hair. That said, because of its smaller size, it might not be the best travel curling iron for travelers with extra long hair.

Need to dry your hair fast on the go? See our tips!

AmoVee 2 in 1 Mini Flat Iron Curling Iron

Mini Travel Curling Wand to Save Space

If you have limited space but want to bring a travel hair curler along with you on your next trip, then a mini curling wand might be the solution for you

A great option for a mini curler is the titanium AmoVee 2in1  styler, which creates curls or waves in your locks while adding shine and luster to your hair. Additionally, you can straighten with this small-size tool, too!

It is an easy to use travel curling wand that helps create fast hairstyles in a single stroke. Plus, the titanium barrel distributes heat evenly to eliminate kinks whether you’re curling or straightening. It also heats up fast.

I describe myself as ultra lazy when it comes to hairstyling, but when I started using this travel curling iron , I became obsessed with how easy it was to use! Now I rarely travel without it, especially since it’s dual-voltage.

We round up the best hair diffusers for travel!

Conair ThermaCell Compact Curling Iron

Cordless Curling Iron for on the Go

When you travel with electronic devices or hair styling tools, you have to think about plugs, adapters, and voltage. Especially if you’re traveling to somewhere like Europe, where the plugs don’t match. Unless you travel with a cordless curling iron.

I had always wanted cordless hair tools for road trips or places where access to power outlets aren’t easy to come by. Measuring a mere 6.4 inches, the ThermaCell by Conair is the ultimate cordless curler to carry throughout your travels!

Our favorite feature of this cordless curling tool is obviously the fact that there are no plugs or batteries to fuss with. And the ThermaCell cartridges last several months, so you can style your hair anytime, anywhere without worrying about running out of juice.

The ThermaCell also saves you time by heating up in as little as 30 seconds, giving you plenty of time to hit the city and enjoy your vacation. This portable curling wand is a great addition to your packing list, and due to the lack of cord, you don’t even have to worry about the voltage. Roadtrip, here we come!

Check out our ultimate guide to hair while traveling!

Compass Rose Universal Travel Adapter

The Importance of Dual Voltage Curling Irons

Before you head off to purchase you’re favorite of the best travel curling iron options, we need to have a chat about the importance of a dual voltage curling iron. Voltage refers simply to electricity, and different countries you might travel to have different types of electricity. For example, here in the US, we use 110-120V, but in Europe, they use 220-240V.

There’s a good chance that your electronics are built for the same voltage as the country in which you bought them. That means that if you take your non-dual voltage hair curler with you while you’re visiting another country, it might not work. In fact, you could even blow a fuse or destroy your travel hair tool if you try to use it. Not cool!

If you want a full run-down on voltage by country, you can check out this World Standards page .

Learn about voltage converters vs. adapters !

To use your favorite travel curling iron in another country, you’re going to need two things:

• The correct voltage
• A travel adapter

Your hair styling tools, including blow dryers, curling wands and irons, and hair straighteners use a ton of electricity. That means it’s important they they are used with the correct voltage.

Some hair tools are labeled “dual-voltage,” which means they’ve been designed to be used in multiple countries. If you’re traveling outside of the US (or a country that uses the same voltage) you’re going to want to bring your dual voltage curler with you.

Once you have your hands on a dual voltage curling iron, you’re also going to need a travel adapter. A travel adapter enables you to plug your electronics into international outlets while you travel. Since not every country uses the same type of plug, we highly recommend you buy an international adapter .

Visit this power outlet guide for travelers to see a full list of plugs and outlets by country!

The Best Travel Curling Iron for the US

If you’re both from the US and traveling within the US, you won’t need to get a dual voltage curling iron. But you might want to save some space by choosing to travel with a mini curling iron.

If you are traveling to the US from a country outside of the US, you’ll need to travel with a dual voltage curler (you can still save space by getting yourself a mini iron). Make sure that you switch the voltage to 110V/120V before using your travel hair curler once you’ve arrived in the US.

The Best Travel Curling Iron for Europe

Is your travel curling iron dual voltage? If so, then that is the one you’ll want to use if you’re traveling from the US to Europe, Asia, Africa, or the South Pacific.

If the one you have at home is not a dual voltage curling iron, you’ll want to look into purchasing a new one for your travels (but avoid the 1-inch Mini Hair Curling Iron because it doesn’t have that feature).

Note that if you purchase a travel curling iron for Europe while you’re there, it likely will be a curling iron with a European plug. If you’re from the US, a European curling iron won’t help much when you get home!

A dual voltage curling iron is not automatically set for travel, so make sure to switch your hair tools to 220V/240V before you use them at your destination!

So, are you ready to spend your vacation with beautiful curls without the fuss? The best travel curling iron can easily take your hair from flat to va-va-voom in a matter of minutes!

What are your picks for the best travel curling iron? Share in the comments!

For more tips on travel hairstyles, please read:

• What’s the Best Travel Hair Dryer?
• Should I Pack a Travel Blow Dryer?
• What’s the Best Travel Hair Straightener?
• Best Hair Products for Travelers

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10 comments.

Regarding the cordless one, can it be brought onto the airplane in carryon?

I would like to purchase a 220v -2 prong curling iron. Not a dual voltage. They are not consistent in overheating even with all the adapters and “dual capability.”

I simply want to purchase a European 2-prong curling iron. Could someone post that as a purchase option please?

1”-1 1/2” barrel

Hi Lori, to get the most help in your search, of you haven’t already done so, I would highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post your question there – it’s a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their travel advice and recommendations!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirl

I bought two of the 6th Sense Styling Technology. One for travel/gym bag and one for home. I love it so much!

Thanks for sharing your love of your curling iron with us Jillian! Always love hearing the feedback of our readers!

I always travel with a normal size curling iron but find it is a little too long to fit comfortably in my personal item. I purchased the Conair Mini Pro Ceramic but found it was too hard to use on my shoulder-length hair. I kept burning my fingers! I think it would work well for someone with short hair, however. I returned it and bought the AmoVee 2-in-1 curling iron. This one is a keeper. Much easier to use and I like the padded sleeve that comes with it. It is dual voltage too! In the meantime, I stumbled across an old Charlescraft Quartette curling iron in a second-hand store for $10. The handle and the four curling iron barrels are separate and snap together. Smart design! It is not dual voltage but I can use it for domestic travel. I notice a similar one (Triplette instead of Quartette) is for sale on Poshmark.

The best thing I’ve used is my Karmin curling iron, I love it.❤❤❤

Hi Katherine, thank you for sharing how you like to style your hair when traveling with us! ?

I prefer Karmin.

Hi Heidi, thank you for sharing your recommendation with us! 🙂

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The Best Dual Voltage Curling Irons 2020 - Travel Curling Iron Reviews

A dual voltage curling iron is the perfect choice for international travelers.

There is very little about packing for a trip that isn't stressful. From clothing to toiletries to medications, there is little room for styling tools.

But if you have the best dual voltage curling iron in your bag, your hair will be one less thing for you to worry about.

A travel curling iron wand is a compact styling tool that can be squeezed into any bag or purse without forcing you to sacrifice other necessities.

They come in a wide variety of barrel sizes and temperature ranges to suit any hair type and length.

And since they are dual voltage curling irons, you can take them to any country in the world without worrying about frying your tool or your hair.

Many of the best curling irons also include a variety of safety features and accessories, including protective gloves and a curling iron travel bag. In fact, there is almost nothing these handy tools can't do.

Quick Answer: Best Travel Dual Voltage Curling Iron

• Best Travel Dual Voltage Curling Iron: 6th Sense Styling Technology 2-in-1 Mini Curling & Flat Iron
• Best Safety Dual Voltage Curling Iron : Revlon Perfect Heat Long Lasting Curls Curling Iron
• Best Combo Dual Voltage Straightener & Curling Iron: Berta 2 in 1 Hair Curler & Straightener
• Best Budget Dual Voltage Curling Iron: Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron

Best Dual Voltage Curling Iron

Dual voltage curling iron reviews.

Bed Head Curlipops Curling Wand

This dual voltage curling wand from Bed Head is the right diameter for styling your hair with loose waves or tight curls. Because it is made of tourmaline ceramic, it also keeps your hair free of static, replacing it with a smooth shine.

The clipless design allows you to curl your hair from scalp to tip with no ugly crimps from a tight clamp. Of course, this means you're fingers get close to the barrel, but luckily, there is a cool tip to hold onto, as well as a heat-protective glove to keep your hand safe from burns.

With high heat and rapid heat recovery, you won't ever be stuck with inconsistent curls while using this Bed Head curling iron. The bright orange handle is just one of the vibrant hair curler colors offered by Bed Head.

If you're looking for a clipless tool that looks great while keeping your hands and hair safe during any travel adventure, the Bed Head Curlipops Curling Wand may be the best curling iron for you.

Shop The Bed Head Curlipops Curling Wand

Max Temp : Up to 400° F

Dual Voltage : Yes

Material : Tourmaline Ceramic

Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron

The NEW Conair curling iron has a double ceramic barrel to give you the thick curls and loose waves you want without causing any damage to your hair. It also won't dry it out like other heat stylers, which helps keep frizz and static from ruining your style.

This dual voltage curling iron can be taken with you no matter where you travel, to ensure the best style on the road or overseas. And because the ceramic curling iron delivers even heat while styling, your curls will last well into the night.

There are 30 high-temperature settings, making this travel curling iron a great option for any hair type. It even features a Turbo Heat boost for those areas which are a bit more difficult to style.

The buttons are easy to use and conveniently recessed to keep you from pressing them unintentionally while you style your hair.

For additional safety, there is an Auto Off feature, a cool tip and a protective pouch to store your hot curling iron in after you're done styling.

The Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron is the best ceramic curling iron for those who want a versatile styling tool to take on their worldwide travels.

Shop The Conair Double Ceramic Curling Iron

Max Temp : 400°F

Material : Ceramic

xtava Twist Curling Wand - Tapered Clipless Curling Iron

This curling wand from xtava has a tapered barrel for multiple curls. The wider diameter of the handle gives you thicker curls while the thinner end makes tighter waves and spirals.

Or you can wrap your hair around the length of the barrel for varying curls all over your head.

There are 22 heat settings to choose from, with the lowest temperature of 200 degrees Fahrenheit for use on fine or color treated hair, and a high heat of 410 degrees Fahrenheit to penetrate thicker hair.

You'll never be left guessing what temperature you're on, either, thanks to the digital LCD display.

For safety features, this dual voltage travel curling iron has a cool tip, a heat resistant glove, and an auto shutoff. There is even a handy storage pouch for traveling.

If you are in need of a pro salon dual voltage curling wand that can help you achieve a new style every day of the week, try out the xtava Twist Curling Wand - Tapered Clipless Curling Iron.

Shop The xtava Twist Curling Wand

Max Temp : 410 ℉

Material : Tourmaline

6th Sense Styling Technology 2-in-1 Mini Flat Iron & Curling Iron

When you travel, you want a small curling iron that won't take up too much space in your bag. This mini curling iron from 6th Sense can meet these needs.

It is only 10.5 inches long from the cord hook on one end to the curling iron's cool tip. It also weighs just over half a pound, so won't put you over any weight restrictions.

But this isn't just a curling iron. Undo the lock on the handle and open it up for a flat iron that can smooth out your hair for straight styles.

Since the best dual voltage curling iron/flat iron also heats up fast, this travel size curling iron is ready to go in only a few seconds. And when you're done styling, pack it up in the included carry bag.

For those who want a styling tool that can curl and straighten without weighing you down on the road, the 6th Sense Styling Technology 2-in-1 Mini Flat Iron and Curling Iron may be your best choice.

Shop The 6th Sense Styling Technology 2-in-1 Mini

Heat Range : 374℉

Material : Nano silver and tourmaline technology

Berta 2 in 1 Hair Curler & Straightener

A combination curling iron and hair straightener can keep you style fresh every day. That's why this 2-in-1 dual voltage curling iron from Berta is such a handy styling tool.

It uses tourmaline heating technology combined with nano ceramic plates. Together, they produce the negative ions your hair needs to keep the frizz down and smooth out the static. Its PTC heater gives you a consistent temperature.

You can set the heat to your desired temperature using the LED digital display and the simple controls. There is even a handy side button, which opens up the straightener, but is placed out of the way to reduce accidental pressing.

Additional features of this dual voltage curling iron include an ergonomic handle, a swivel cord, and an auto-shutoff after 1 hour of inactivity.

For a professional curling iron and straightener that can give any hair type salon-quality results at home or anywhere else, the Berta 2 in 1 Hair Curler and Hair Straightener might just be the best dual hair curling iron for the job.

Shop The Berta 2 in 1 Hair Curler & Straightener

Heat Range : 275 - 425°F

Revlon Perfect Heat Long Lasting Curls Curling Iron

With five different barrel sizes to choose from, you'll always have the best dual voltage curling iron to meet your needs with the Revlon hair curling irons. Every size uses 3X ceramic heating for damage-free curls that will last as long as you do.

The best portable curling iron will heat up fast, and this one meets these standards thanks to its 30 second heat-up time.

It has 30 heat settings to choose from, ranging up to a super high 400 degrees. And because the ceramic barrels retain the heat, you will never end up with uneven curls.

For the safety conscious, there is an auto-shutoff, a built-in folding safety stand, a cool tip, a swivel cord, and even a protective cover for all four curling iron sizes.

If safety is important to you as style, check out the Revlon Perfect Heat Long Lasting Curls Curling Iron for your next travel adventure.

Shop The Revlon Perfect Heat Curling Iron

Heat Range : Up to 400℉

BaBylissPRO Ceramic Tools Spring Curling Iron

Though the barrel is short on this Babyliss curling iron, it isn't exactly a mini travel curling iron. The total length is just over 15 inches, but with a weight of only a pound, it should still be worthwhile to carry it with you anywhere you travel.

Along with a ceramic barrel for smooth, shiny curls, this dual voltage curling iron heats up fast to its maximum 400 degrees in 60 seconds.

But you don't need to use the highest heat every time.

For those with more fragile strands, there are 25 heat settings to choose from, so you never have to worry about singeing your hair.

The power indicator light located above the rubberized comfort handle lets you know when your electric curling iron is on.

The cool tip gives you complete control, and the 9-foot swivel cord lets you move however you need to while you style your hair.

If you are looking for a dual voltage curling iron that is as comfortable in your hand as it is on your hair, maybe the BabylissPro Ceramic Tools Spring Curling Iron is the model for you.

Shop The BaBylissPRO Ceramic Tools Spring Curling Iron

Herstyler Grande Curls Tourmaline Curling Iron

The tapered barrel of this clipless curling iron from Herstyler allows you to create thinner curls or loose beachy waves, depending on how you wrap your hair around it.

The Teflon barrel uses tourmaline ceramic heating, so not only will it give you a consistent temperature while you style, but this dual voltage curling wand will last through even the roughest turbulence.

Fast heat-up time is a must, and this curling wand is hot and ready to go in seconds, even when using it's highest temperature.

There is a long swivel cord on the end of the barrel, which helps to keep tangling from halting your styling. A heat-resistant glove is also included with this travel curling wand, so you can work your magic without burning your fingers.

For a decently priced curling wand that still gives you salon styling at home, at work, or overseas, the Herstyler Grande Curls Tourmaline Curling Iron may be the right hair curling wand for you.

Shop The Herstyler Grande Curls Tourmaline Curling Iron

Material : Teflon

Dual Voltage Curling Iron Buying Guide - Finding the Best Travel Curling Iron

What is a dual voltage curling iron.

A dual voltage curling iron is one that can automatically switch between 110-120V and 220-240V when you plug it in. This is necessary for those who travel internationally since different countries around the world use different voltages.

If you live on the western side of the planet, you're likely used to seeing 110 V on your styling tools. That's because, in North and South America, 110-120 V is the normal range for our outlets. But if you head to the Cook Islands or Belize, you may regret not purchasing a dual voltage curling iron, since these areas also use the higher voltage.

In most of Asia, the Middle East, Russia, and Europe, 220-240V will be used almost everywhere. But again, this isn't always the case, and you may be struggling to find a converter if you buy just a higher voltage curling iron.

No matter what country you travel to, though, you'll still need a travel plug adapter . Different countries use different outlets, so research the area for the right adapter.

Advantages of a Dual Voltage Curling Iron

There are a few advantages to using a dual voltage travel curling iron. The first is that you don't ever need to worry about packing a converter, no matter how far from home you travel. They can be used anywhere, as long as there is an outlet to plug them into.

Dual voltage curling irons and wands are also lighter in weight than other home models. The controls are simple to use, so there is never a need to carry an instruction booklet with you to figure out which buttons to press.

Another benefit of these curling irons is that many of them have multiple heat settings. If you are traveling with a few people, you could all use the same styling tool, even if you all have different hair types.

Tips for Traveling with a Curling Iron

The best dual voltage curling iron for travel is compact enough to pack in your purse or carry-on. You don't want to toss it in with your checked bags, though, since it could be damaged during your flight.

If it comes with a protective cover or carrying case, use it. This will keep your curling iron or wand clean during travel. They will also allow you to pack it quickly, even when it is still hot, without the risk of burning your clothes or other belongings.

Make sure you've packed your plug adapter, so you aren't racing around an unknown city trying to find one to suit your curling iron.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Dual Voltage Curling Iron

Barrel size.

With different barrel sizes come different types of waves and curls. A small barrel curling iron gives you tight ringlets. This is the best dual voltage curling iron for short hair since it is easier to wrap those little strands around it. If you have this length of hair, a 1-inch curling iron or smaller is your best choice.

A big barrel curling iron can give you bigger curls or loose, beachy waves. Those with short hair may not be able to achieve the style they want with a larger barrel, but medium or long hair works well with one. These barrels can range up to 2 inches wide, so your options are almost endless.

A tapered barrel can work with any hair length. The varying barrel width can be used in a variety of ways to give you multiple styles.

Plate Material

Though chrome or metal barrels are cheaper materials, a Teflon, gold, or titanium curling iron are better choices. Teflon will protect your hair from damage, while the other two offer even heating.

But a ceramic or tourmaline curling iron would be the best choice. These types of barrels emit negative ions, which counter the positive ions in your hair. This smoothes out the strands, reduces the damage, and leaves you with a healthy, shiny head of beautiful curls.

Keep in mind that any of these coatings can wear off over time, so finding a solid plate or barrel in ceramic or tourmaline would be the best dual voltage curling iron to meet your needs.

Size & Weight

Traveling light is the best way to go. You don't want to strain your back carrying overloaded bags, or you may just spend your vacation trapped in your hotel room.

In terms of weight, the best dual voltage curling iron is one that won't put you over any restrictions. Many of these models are a pound or less. Anything more than that may be too much.

The size of your travel curling iron depends on how much space you have. It is possible to find a tiny curling iron that is only 10 inches long, but this shortens the handle and the barrel.

Longer curling irons can reach about 15 inches. As well as space, the size of your hand and hair length will help determine just how small a curling iron you can use.

Temperature Settings

If you're looking for the right travel curling iron, you may want to find one that has multiple heat settings. Different hair types need different temperatures, but it may take some experimenting to figure out just how much heat your particular hair requires to hold onto its style.

Another reason to find one with multiple settings is that more people can use your travel curling iron while on the road. If you have one that can meet the needs of everyone, you won't have to bring a variety of stylers, which saves on space.

Top rated curling irons can range from one or two settings all the way up to 30. You may not need that many for yourself, but more settings could come in handy in the future, so don't rule them out just yet.

Heat Up Times

When you are in a rush, or just excited to get outside and explore a new city, waiting around for your travel curling iron to heat up can seem like an eternity. That's why the best dual voltage curling iron has fast heating for speedy styling.

Some of the top curling irons on the market boast only seconds from turning it on until they are ready to style. Others need half or even a full minute until they are hot enough to use. These are the ones to look for since they can have you styling and out the door in no time.

Dual Voltage for International Travel

If you are one of those people who doesn't like to stick close to home, try out a dual voltage curling wand or curling iron. These automatically switch to the proper voltage level when you plug them in anywhere.

This is handy since you never have to worry about carrying a converter with you whenever you travel internationally. They can be used anywhere without burning out your travel curling wand or risking a fire. You'll still need a plug adapter for your chosen destination, though.

There are cordless curling irons available, but then you need to worry about charging them or carrying spare batteries with you. For international travel, a dual voltage curling iron is the better option.

Special Features

When you are checking out the best dual voltage curling iron for your travel needs, there are a few special features to watch for.

Some models have an LCD display, which shows you the exact temperature you are on, cutting out the guesswork.

Rapid heat recovery will keep your dual voltage curling iron hot while you style. Cold spots can give you inconsistent curls and waves, so a device that maintains its heat is necessary.

As well as giving you less room to work with, it can be frustrating to repeatedly stop curling your hair to untangle the curler's cord. A swivel cord keeps it from twisting up, no matter how many times you spin it around.

If you can find a curling iron and straightener in one, you'll have a much more versatile styling tool. Using one of these can give you a new style for every day of the week.

Safety is always important, and styling your hair is no exception. That's why the top rated curling irons will include some safety features to reduce any burns to your hair, body, and bathroom.

The first thing to look for is an auto-shutoff. If you accidentally leave your curling iron on, the auto shut-off curling iron will turn itself off after a certain amount of time.

Heat protective gloves usually come with a dual voltage curling wand. Since your hand is so close to the styler, you won't burn your fingers while wearing these.

Cool tips are also good for reducing burns. They also give you more control when styling your hair.

If your hands get sweaty while you're adding some beachy waves, a non-slip handle will keep your curling wand or iron firmly in your grip.

No matter what your hair type is, you need the proper temperature to complete your style and keep it looking great all day long. Having a variety of heat settings can help you do this.

Lower heat settings won't be able to penetrate thick or coarse hair. Instead, your style will fall flat before you even complete it. A styler with high heat is the best curling iron for thick hair, to ensure it will be able to heat up every strand in each section.

The best curling iron for fine hair, colored hair, or dry hair uses lower heat to keep the damage to a minimum. 200-300 degrees would be best to avoid burning your already fragile hair.

You don't have to spend a fortune to get the best dual voltage curling iron. Many brands have a low price tag of $20-$30. These are usually basic models, but this doesn't mean they can't perform as well as higher end curling irons.

Of course, if you want a travel curling iron with all the best features and a variety of heat settings, not to mention a few included accessories, be prepared to open up those purse strings. A salon-quality hair curling iron can run you well over $80.00, and some in the hundreds.

If you want more than basic, but can't afford the best travel curling irons on the market, find one in between that meets your needs and expectations.

The Bottom Line

A dual voltage curling iron can fit your bag as well as it fits your style. They are versatile tools that give you some bounce to your hair without spending all day in front of a mirror.

And since these tiny curling irons can be used all over the world as well as they do in your own home, it will be well worth the cost.

If you have a very limited space for hair accessories and tools, try out the 6th Sense Styling Technology 2-in-1 Mini Flat Iron and Curling Iron . It's short length and light weight takes up little room and won't break your back.

For the concerned hair styler, the many safety features of the Revlon Perfect Heat Long Lasting Curls Curling Iron will keep your concerns to a minimum.

And for those who are looking for a versatile combination of straight and curly styles, the Berta 2 in 1 Hair Curler and Hair Straightener has the features you want at a relatively low cost.

You can also read our guides to the best travel hair dryer , the best dual voltage flat iron and other recommended travel products here .

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11 Best Curling Irons for Creating and Holding Every Kind of Wave

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to finding the best curling iron. Like a good straightener , the size and shape make a world of difference in achieving the type of curl you’re looking for—and so do factors like your hair type, hair length, the products you use (don’t forget the heat protectant !), how hot the barrels get, and even how you hold the tool. To make your journey easier, we asked hair experts for tips on how to get the perfect curl (or wave, depending on your preference) and to share the ones they use every day. We also tapped our team of editors, contributors, and our network of testers to find out what they love. After evaluating close to two dozen of the most highly rated options for attributes like material, heat settings, ease of use, and final results, we narrowed the list down to 11 curling wands you can rely on.

The best curling irons, at a glance

• Best Overall: T3 Aire 360 Ceramic Air Styler Blowout Kit , $300
• Best Value: Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron , $19
• Best for Thick Hair : GHD Classic Wave Oval Curling Wand , $209
• Best for Fine Hair : The Beachwaver Co. S1 Dual Voltage , $149
• Best for Long Hair : Chi Volcanic Lava Ceramic Pro Spin ’N Curl , $130
• Best for Short Hair : Mermade PRO Hair Waver , $79
• Best for Beachy Waves : Drybar The Mixologist Interchangeable Styling Iron , $199
• Best for Less Heat Damage : Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System , $287
• Best for Beginners : BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Spring Curling Iron , $60
• Easiest to Use : Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Long Curling Iron , $48
• Best Splurge : Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Complete Long , $599

Your commonly asked questions

How to use a curling iron, what to look for in a curling iron, meet the experts, best overall : t3 aire 360 ceramic air styler blowout kit.

T3 Aire 360 Ceramic Air Styler Blowout Kit

If you love the Dyson Airwrap but cringe at the price tag, T3 is the answer. The brand’s new Aire 360 is a fantastic dupe, created by a brand that focuses solely on hair products. Although it’s about half the price of the Dyson, we found that the Aire 360 works just as well—if not better. When you turn it on, the air-powered tool picks the hair up and wraps it around the wand to create blowout-style curls without the heat damage. In evaluations, curls were sleek and shiny, which the brand says is thanks to the CeraGloss ceramic surface of the curling wands.

Testers told Glamour that using this hair tool felt like a luxury experience from start to finish. “Everything from the unboxing to the end style is supersophisticated,” says Glamour contributor Brigitt Earley . It comes in this beautiful hexagonal box that opens to reveal a pouch rather than a bulky, hard-to-store box that other similar tools come in. The curling wand itself is lightweight and easy to use too. “It was super intuitive—you simply use the wand head with the proper arrow, so you can curl both sides away from your face without struggle,” says Earley. “I couldn’t believe that I was able to get such a sleek style on my very long hair in less than 15 minutes.” Glamour ’s commerce editor Jennifer Calle is also a fan and says she likes to use it when she has to rush out the door. “I have thick, coarse hair, so curling it takes forever, which is why this styler is perfect for quick and easy styling. And it lasts, too. The next day I wake up with wavy strands.”

• What we love: Less heat damage; lightweight and easy to use; comes in an easy-to-store thermal pouch; works quickly
• What could improve: Our testers fingers kept accidentally changing the heat setting
• Barrel size: 1.35 inches
• Material: Ceramic
• Heat settings: 3
• Hair types : All hair types
• Best for styling : Smooth waves with limited heat

Best Splurge : Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Complete Long

Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Complete Long

Like the Supersonic —Dyson’s best-selling hair dryer—the Dyson Airwrap is expensive. But if you’re looking to invest in a tool that’s truly luxe and lives up to the hype, it’s a worthy pick. The Airwrap , the first of its kind, dries and styles simultaneously without burning your hair to a crisp. To curl, you simply attach one of two included curling wands and dangle your hair over it. The tool sucks it all up, expertly wrapping your hair around the wand—no need to move your hand. If you want a smoother, sleeker style, opt for the smoothing dryer of one of the three other included brush attachments.

Yes, it has an eye-popping price tag, but our editors have been big fans of the product since its launch in 2018, and say it’s worth the splurge. “Not to be dramatic, but my life changed when I tried the first-generation Dyson Airwrap,” says Ariana Yaptangco , Glamour ’s senior beauty editor. “At the time I had just gotten curtain bangs, and the interchangeable attachments made it so easy to switch according to my styling needs, delivering salon-level smoothness and blowouts in less than half the time.”

• What we love: Six attachments, two-year warranty; dries and styles at the same time
• What could improve: Extremely expensive
• Barrel size: 1.2 inches; 1.6 inches
• Material: Ceramic, steel
• Heat settings: Three
• Best for styling : Voluminous, smooth curls with limited heat

Best for Thick Hair : GHD Classic Wave Oval Curling Wand

GHD Classic Wave Oval Curling Wand

While an oval barrel takes a bit of getting used to, it’s a great option for natural, undone waves, adding volume without sacrificing length. We love that GHD’s pick has an optional spring clamp and a shut-off feature that kicks in after half an hour of nonuse—no more worrying that you left your curling iron plugged in. Just note that it’s preset to 365°F, which might be a touch hot for finer hair.

“This iron, which comes at the recommendation of dozens of celebrity stylists, was a 10-out-of-10 experience for me,” says Glamour contributor Meg Adams . “It’s straightforward to use, delivers even heat, and has a cool and touchable tip so you’re less likely to burn your fingers.” In evaluations, the results were some of the more impressive, too. “After I styled with the spring clamp, my hair was so shiny and the so perfect that a girl stopped me on the subway to ask about my style,” says Adams. “When I used the iron as a wand without the clamp the results were—unbelievably—even greater. I loved the unfinished quality about the voluminous curls.”

• What we love: Heats quickly; automatic shut-off after 30 minutes; two ways to style
• What could improve: Only one heat setting
• Barrel size: 1.5 inches
• Heat settings: 1
• Hair types : Thick and medium hair types
• Best for styling : Waves and tight ringlets

Best for Fine Hair : The Beachwaver Co. S1 Dual Voltage

Beachwaver S1 Dual Voltage Rotating Curling Iron

If our Beachwaver review is any indication, this rotating curling iron is just as good as social media claims it is. Its moving barrel makes it another great pick for beginners, since you don’t need salon-level expertise to get started—just clamp in a section of hair, push the button, and let the iron work its magic.

“It’s really the only traditional curling iron I can actually use, because it’s as easy as 1-2-3,” says Danielle Sinay , Glamour associate beauty editor. “One, clamp a section of dry hair at the end; two, press the arrow button facing away from the face; and three, allow your hair to wrap as it revolves.” Et voilà: Your hair is perfectly curled and bouncy, says Sinay, who tells Glamour her Beachwaver-styled curls stay put for days.

• What we love: Easy to use; curls hair quickly; curls last a long time
• What could improve: Doesn’t feel as durable as some others we tested
• Barrel size: 1.75 inches
• Heat settings: 290°F–410°F
• Hair types : Most hair types
• Best for styling : Beachy waves or controlled curls

Best for Long Hair : Chi Spin ’N Curl

Chi Volcanic Lava Ceramic Pro Spin ‘N Curl

If you’re even somewhat interested in hair care, there’s a good chance Chi’s rotating curling iron has come across your TikTok For You page. The thing may look intimidating, but once you get the hang of it, it couldn’t be easier to use. The tool automatically draws hair into a rotating chamber, timing each section for consistency. “It’s a little heavy and clunky-looking, but the design is great if you’re someone who always burns yourself, since the outside chamber stays cool,” says Glamour contributor Halie LeSavage . “The lasting results were what really sold me, though,” she says. “I purposefully tested the iron right before bed to see how the curls would match up against a night of sleep. The next morning, my hair still had modern, thick waves.”

There’s more to love than the do-it-for-you design of this curling iron, though. Testers appreciated the auto-off feature, which turns the device off after an hour, and said the 11-foot cord offers plenty of length for any home user.

• What we love: Great for beginners; adjustable temperature; works quickly
• What could improve: The curling iron has a tendency to jam with thicker hair
• Barrel size: 1 inch
• Best for styling : Loose, beachy waves or bouncy curls

Best Value : Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron

Conair Double Ceramic 1-Inch Curling Iron

Would you believe us if we told you it’s not necessary to shell out more than $20 for a curling iron that can get the job done? This classic may not have all the bells and whistles of the more expensive options, but we found it delivered pretty envious curls, making it a great pick for newbies or those who don’t regularly reach for a curling iron but like the option.

Our tester, Glamour editorial assistant Ana Escalante , says she likes this curling wand because of the value it offers. “I love beautiful, beachy waves, but never quite mastered the art of curling my hair, so I don’t want to invest in anything too pricey,” she says. “This inexpensive and beginner-friendly 1-inch barrel is perfect for my short hair.” We love that it has an impressive 30 heat settings to tailor your style to your hair type, plus has a cool tip and comes with an insulated thermal glove to protect beginner’s fingers. The slim wand is also dual-voltage—great for travel.

• What we love: Affordable; 30 heat settings; comes with an insulated glove; dual-voltage
• What could improve: Short cord
• Heat settings: 30
• Hair types : Medium or fine hair types
• Best for styling : Spiral curls, bouncy curls, and wavy hair

Easiest to Use : Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Long Curling Iron

Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Collection Extended Barrel Curling Iron

Hot Tools just launched an update to its award-winning Pro Artist 24K Gold Curling Iron Collection, and it’s so good that it’s worth swapping yours out if you already own one. The new iteration has a longer barrel, so it’s suitable for a wider range of hair lengths—including those who have nearly waist-length hair. It also heats up faster to more precise temperatures, so you can better customize your styling session to suit your hair type, whether fine or coarse.

“This curling wand feels a little heavy in hand, but it’s an OG for good reason,” says Earley. “The clamp is easy to use, and the new extended barrel allows me to wrap more of my very long hair around the wand, so it curls on the first pass.” We also like the expanded heat settings, which range from 250°F to 480°F, and the 8-inch swivel cord, which gives you plenty of room to maneuver.

• What we love: Long barrel; five temperature settings; long power cord
• What could improve: Heavier than some others we tested
• Barrel size: 1.25 inches
• Heat settings: 5
• Best for styling : Wider, voluminous waves

Best for Beginners : BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Spring Curling Iron

BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Spring Curling Iron

The BaBylissPRO is another long-standing favorite because of the excellent value it offers. The budget-friendly tool comes in four different barrel sizes, from .75 to 1.5 inches, to suit a range of hair lengths. Our tester used the 1.25-inch curling wand and said it delivered loose, beachy waves with plenty of volume—exactly the look she was hoping for. And, because it’s so lightweight, it was easy to nail the style without fatigue. We like that this curling wand has an impressive 50 heat settings, too. You can set at various increments from 250°F to 450°F, and the brand includes a helpful guide to help determine which level of heat is most appropriate for various hair types to help with damage control. Also nice: an 8-foot tangle-free swiveling power cord.

• What we love: Four barrel sizes available; 50 heat settings; long power cord
• What could improve: Some users say the barrel is too short
• Barrel size: .75 inches; 1 inch; 1.25 inches; 1.5 inches
• Heat settings: 50
• Best for styling : Loose or textured curls or wavy hair

Best for Beachy Waves : Drybar The Mixologist Interchangeable Styling Iron

Drybar The Mixologist Interchangeable Styling Iron

This Drybar bestseller offers three attachments (waver, wand, and clamp iron) that you can easily swap to create everything from classic curls to beach waves. It’s simple and incredibly versatile—just pop the attachment you want to use onto the tool’s base.

“I’m sometimes a little skeptical of hot-tool sets, because the options often don’t work equally well, but that’s not the case here,” says Glamour contributor Sarah Y. Wu . No matter which attachment you’re using, the tool has an easy-to-read digital display that heats up to 450°F, so you can customize your styling experience. “They’re all so easy to use and keep my waves set for an entire day,” says Wu.

• What we love: Interchangeable barrels; auto shutoff after one hour; digital temperature display
• What could improve: Reviewers say the device doesn’t heat up properly and may break easily
• Barrel size: 1 inch; 1.25 inches
• Heat settings: 15
• Best for styling : Classic curls, beachy waves, or “mermaid” hair

Best for Short Hair : Mermade PRO Hair Waver 1.25"

Mermade PRO Hair Waver - 1.25"

Anthropologie

Get beach waves all year round with Mermade’s clamping hair curler. It has three barrels in one, and doesn’t require you to turn it or flip it to get results. You simply work your way down by clamping your hair in sections and watch the magic happen–like the crimpers of yesteryear but more elevated.

This triple-barreled curling iron is a particularly good bet for those with long hair, since it styles quickly and with minimal effort. “When I had long hair, I loved that all I had to do was sandwich my hair between the clamp, instead of turning my hands like I would with a traditional curling iron,” says Glamour contributor Andrea Navarro , who says the process cut down significantly on styling time without sacrificing those big, bouncy waves that look so natural and effortless.

• What we love: Auto shut-off after 60 minutes; comes with a heat protection glove; beginner-friendly
• What could improve: Not ideal for shorter hair
• Heat settings: 176°F–410°F
• Hair types : Shorter hair types
• Best for styling : Bouncy waves or “mermaid” hair

Best for Less Heat Damage: Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System

Shark Beauty FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System for Straight & Wavy Hair

Though it’s known as another dupe for the Dyson Airwrap, Shark’s FlexStyle is quickly gaining its own very dedicated fan base. The air-powered styler comes at a fraction of the price—more comparable to our top overall pick—but delivers beautiful curls or a sleek blowout, depending on which attachment you choose. It comes with five: a drying concentrator, two 1.25-inch curlers (one for each side of the head), and two brush attachments. No matter which attachment you use, you’ll have your choice of four heat and three airflow settings to personalize your styling session. There’s also a cool shot button to help curls go the distance. “This is a really solid styling tool that gave me enviable curls,” our tester said. “My hair is very long, though, so I do wish the barrel was a little bit longer.”

• What we love: Very versatile styling tool; four heat settings; works quickly
• What could improve: Barrel is shorter than other options
• Material: Metal
• Heat settings: 4
• Best for styling : Voluminous waves and smooth blowouts

Like flatirons, a curling iron is a relatively basic heat-styling tool, but a few tips can help ensure best results. First, your hair should be dry before curling, celebrity hairstylist Joseph Maine tells Glamour . He also suggests using a heat protectant both while the hair is wet and once it’s dry.

Techniques and barrel sizes differ depending on the look you’re after—again, smaller barrels mean tighter curls. “To style while using any size curling iron, place the hair in the middle of the clamp and curl away from your face to achieve a standard formal curl,” says Maxine Salon stylist Raven Hurtado . For triple-barrel options, you simply clamp down in the same way, but you don’t have to rotate the wand—more like a crimper. For automatic options, it’s even easier: Clamp down on the hair and press a button to send hair whirring through, revealing the perfect curl.

Material: The most common curling irons have ceramic barrels that tend to spread heat evenly to ensure smooth, shiny results. They’re a great pick for people with finer hair, Maine says. Those tend to be less damaging on hair, while the adjustable temperature allows you to tailor the heat to your hair type’s needs for long-lasting curls. Professional stylists, however, tend to gravitate toward titanium irons, especially for thicker hair, since the material is more durable and able to style curls at higher temps for longer. Tourmaline ceramic is another material that’s a solid pick for people with frizzy or damaged hair; it emits negative ions that react with the positive ones in your hair to minimize dullness and frizz.

Heat: Thin or fine hair requires less heat than thick hair, Maine says. The ideal temperature for thin hair is no more than 300°F, while thicker or coarser, curly hair textures can handle high heat, from 350°F to 450°F.

Size: “For those with long hair, find a long barrel length,” Maine recommends. Barrel width also makes a difference, says Hurtado.

Attachments: Slimmer attachments (0.5- to 0.75-inch) mean tighter curls, while thicker ones (1.5- to 2-inch) lead to looser curls or waves. These days you’re not limited to one choice, though. There are plenty of curling tools with interchangeable barrels, so you can wear your curls in various sizes and hairstyles (think bouncy curls, tight ringlets, beachy waves).

• Joseph Maine , a celebrity hairstylist in Los Angeles
• Raven Hurtado , a hairstylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago