Best Travel Steamer: Top 7 Models Reviewed By Travelers

Is there a foolproof way to pack your suitcase without wrinkling your clothes? If so, we haven’t found it yet. Especially if you’re trying to cram a lot into one bag or go carry-on only, it can be almost impossible to transport your wardrobe without unwanted wrinkles and creases.

Our solution: clothes steamers! A garment steamer is a fantastic option to get your clothes wrinkle-free, and you can find tons of handheld models made for traveling.

We love them because they’re gentler on your clothes than a traditional iron, and they’re much more portable, too!

Check out our roundup of the best garment steamers for traveling below and find the perfect steamer for your travel style!

What Is A Travel Clothes Steamer?

A travel clothes steamer is a handheld, compact steamer that is specifically designed for use while traveling. These steamers are usually much smaller and lighter than full-size steamers or irons, making them easy to pack in your suitcase or carry-on bag.

Many travel steamers are also dual-voltage, so you can use them internationally without having to worry about converters or adapters.

1. Polardo Portable Handheld Steamer

When it comes to convenience, the Polardo Portable Handheld Steamer is just about the best portable garment steamer out there.

This mini steamer is incredibly compact, but it’s just as powerful as a full-size steamer. It’s also a surprisingly lightweight travel steamer at 1.2 lbs, so you won’t have to second guess throwing this into your suitcase or carry-on bag. This makes it a fantastic choice for short business trips or longer vacations.

While many travel steamers are ready to use in less than a minute, this garment steamer has a heat-up time of just 25 seconds! It has a 4-ounce water tank and an electronic pump system that will give you continuous steam for 10 minutes.

Something else we like about this model is its 360-degree anti-spill design. You can use this steamer for clothes hanging up or on a flat surface like an iron and ironing board without worrying that the water will leak or spit steam.

This garment steamer has an auto-shut-off feature and also includes a bonus brush to use on silk and lace.

2. Hilife Handheld Clothes Steamer

If you need some extra steam power on the go, the Hilife Handheld Clothes Steamer is a great option. Its large water reservoir provides up to 15 minutes of continuous steam at 700 watts of power. This makes it an excellent choice for an extended business trip or a family group traveling together.

This handheld steamer only weighs 1.7 lbs and includes a 9-foot cord, so you’ll never have to worry about finding an outlet. It is also safe to use on a wide variety of fabrics and includes a fabric brush for delicate fabrics like silk and chiffon.

The only downside is that you will need to hang up your clothes to remove wrinkles, as you cannot tilt this model more than 45 degrees.

3. Chi Handheld Garment Steamer

Did you know that the popular Chi brand also has a handheld garment steamer? And it’s practically the same size as their hair straighteners!

The Chi steamer is a travel steamer in every aspect, from its lightweight 1.1lb design to the travel bag that comes with it.

It’s a fantastic companion that will fit effortlessly into your carry-on, personal bag, or suitcase. You can even slip it into your purse or briefcase for touchups throughout the day.

In addition to being pretty much the most portable steamer for clothes you can find, the Chi garment steamer packs a lot of power–800 watts, to be exact. It has a heat-up time of 35 seconds and provides 5 minutes of continuous steaming.

While this is shorter than most travel steamers, the high steam power will get your clothes wrinkle-free in no time so you can get back to exploring–or that important business meeting.

These travel garment steamers also work at any angle, so you don’t have to worry about drips or spills when you’re in a rush. It also removes the necessity of an ironing board! And with an 8-foot cord, you’ll always be able to find an outlet in reach.

4. BEAUTURAL Portable Clothes Steamer

If you want your garment steamer to have a few extra features, consider the BEAUTURAL Portable Clothes Steamer.

These travel garment steamers have a detachable water tank, heat up in less than a minute, and provide 15 minutes of continuous steaming power. They also hold 8.79 ounces of water and produce 1200 watts of power to get your clothes wrinkle-free in no time.

Some additional features we love about the BAUTURAL garment steamers are the automatic shut-off function and the detachable bristle and lint brush attachments to get your clothes looking extra sharp.

It even has a crease clip to freshen up your pleats and creases! With this many attachments, your clothes will look like they came straight from the dry cleaner!

We’re also big fans of the steam lock button, which allows you to keep steaming without squeezing the trigger the entire time.

Despite its high wattage, this portable garment steamer is safe on your delicate fabrics. So feel free to pop in that silk dress or your favorite suit.

5. iSteam Steamer for Clothes

The iSteam Steamer is one of the most popular handheld steamers available due to its quick and powerful steaming and nano polymer filter.

This unique filter prevents mineral buildup and purifies the water before touching your clothes! So feel free to fill up this clothing steamer with tap water from your hotel room without a second thought.

There’s quite a bit to love about this garment steamer, including the automatic power-off function, detachable water tank for easy filling, and the included fabric brush that helps freshen up clothes.

It also has an electronic pump system and 360-degree steam technology so that you can steam from any angle.

The 4-ounce water tank heats up in 25 seconds and creates enough hot steam for 10 minutes of continuous steaming. This is also one of the lighter travel steamers available, weighing in at just 1.2 lbs.

We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised at what this garment steamer has to offer on your next trip!

6. TRAVEL SMART Conair Dual Voltage Garment Steamer

If having a dual-voltage garment steamer is important to you, check out this unique handheld steamer from Conair!

The TRAVEL SMART Conair steamer is potentially the best travel steamer for any adventure at home or overseas, thanks to its hard-to-find dual voltage capabilities and small size. It’s also a great travel steamer for your carry-on or suitcase because it only weighs 1.2 lbs.

This particular garment steamer advertises itself not only as a garment steamer but also as a way to kill 99.9% of germs, bacteria, bedbugs, and dust mites. So don’t limit this portable steamer to just your clothes when you travel! Feel free to give your bedding a good once-over as well.

This handheld garment steamer provides the least powerful steam from this list at only 400 watts, but it gives 10 minutes of steam time. It includes a detachable bristle and lint brush and an 8-foot cord.

We also like the unique design of this clothes steamer, which has a folding handle to reduce its size. When you’re ready to steam, pop it out and squeeze the trigger.

It’s not as sleek as some of the other clothing steamers out there, but it’s highly portable and can also be used at any angle.

7. Kexi Portable Travel Steamer

Our final pick is the sleek Kexi Portable Travel Steamer! This powerful handheld steamer is on the pricier end, but we love what it has to offer.

Compared to the other travel steamers, it ties with the BEAUTURAL for the highest wattage at 1200 watts.

However, the Kexi is a lightweight travel steamer at only 1.74 lbs and has a much sleeker design. It’s about the size of a hairdryer when in use, but the handle folds up to make it extra portable!

The water tank of this garment steamer holds nearly 5 ounces of water and gives 25 g of steam output per minute for 12 minutes. It has a warm-up time of 40 seconds and a cord that’s nearly 6 feet long.

One of our favorite features about the Kexi travel steamers is the steam settings! Unlike most travel steamers, this one allows you to adjust the steam flow to high, low, or dry iron mode.

So, if you’d rather iron out those wrinkles on the ironing board, you can safely press the flat tip of this garment steamer directly onto your clothes. However, it is safe to steam at any angle, so you can hang up your clothes instead of using the steam function.

The Kexi also boasts that it is 30% more efficient than a regular steamer for clothes, with an ironing time of just 3 minutes, thanks to its powerful steam flow. It also has a built-in power-off function that activates after 12 minutes or when the steamer exceeds a temperature of 216 degrees Celsius.

The final features we love about these Kexi portable travel steamers include an anti-scald storage cover, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and a 365-day warranty.

Benefits Of Using A Portable Clothes Steamer

• Compact and Travel-Friendly: No need for an ironing board, making steamers easier to pack and store, ideal for travelers.
• Gentle on Fabric: Steam relaxes clothing fibers, removing wrinkles without the risk of fabric damage that irons can cause.
• Effective Germ Elimination: Steam can effectively kill germs and bacteria present in clothing, contributing to better hygiene.
• Time-Saving and Convenient: Steaming is quicker and more straightforward than the traditional ironing process.
• Versatile Usage: Steamers can be used on various fabrics, from delicate materials to thicker textiles, providing versatility.
• Reduced Risk of Burns: Steamers pose a lower risk of burns compared to traditional irons, as they don’t require direct contact with clothes.
• Multi-Purpose: Besides clothing, steamers can also be used to freshen up curtains, upholstery, and even certain household items.
• Less Set-Up Required: Steamers don’t necessitate intricate adjustments; water is usually all that’s needed for them to start working.
• Improved Garment Longevity: By avoiding high heat and pressure, steamers can help extend the lifespan of your clothes.
• User-Friendly: Steamers are easy to use, making them suitable for both beginners and seasoned users.

How Does A Clothes Steamer Work?

A clothes steamer works by using hot steam to relax the fibers in your clothing, which helps to release wrinkles and creases. The steam also adds a bit of moisture back into the fabric, which can be helpful if you’re traveling in a dry climate.

Using a clothes steamer is fairly simple – just fill the reservoir with water, turn it on, and wait for it to heat up. Once it’s ready, hold the steamer close to your garment and run it over any wrinkles or creases. You may need to review some areas multiple times to get rid of tough wrinkles.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use a Portable Clothes Steamer

Using a portable clothes steamer is a snap! Just follow these steps:

Step 1: Water Up

Fill the water tank to the right level – not too much, not too little. It’s like filling up your car with just the right amount of gas.

Step 2: Power On

Plug in the steamer and give it a minute to heat up. Think of it as letting your oven preheat before popping in some delicious wrinkle-removing treats.

Step 3: Steam Away

Once it’s heated, press and hold the steam button, then glide the steamer over your clothes. Keep things moving to smooth out those wrinkles like a pro iron without the ironing board.

Step 4: Cool Down

When you’re all done, unplug the steamer and let it cool. Imagine your steamer taking a little post-performance breather.

Step 5: Store Smart

After it’s cooled down, tuck your steamer away for its next performance. Just like a magician’s wand, keep it safe until it’s time to work its wrinkle-erasing magic again.

And there you have it! Using a portable clothes steamer is as easy as pie – no muss, no fuss, and no more wrinkles.

Steaming Towards Wrinkle-Free Travels!

In a nutshell, if you’re on the hunt for the ultimate travel buddy in the steamer department, our top 7 picks are your go-to guide. Whether you’re all about that compact and lightweight vibe or crave the sheer power of steam, we’ve got your back.

From adjustable steam settings to nifty anti-scald covers and smart power-off tricks, our favorites are armed to keep your outfits sharp wherever you wander. And hey, if you’re jet-setting around the world, snag a worldwide dual-voltage steamer for smooth sailing.

So, toss those wrinkles goodbye, pack your bags, and hit the road with these travel steamers that mean serious business!

FAQs About Choosing The Best Travel Steamer

We have all the answers you might have about choosing the best travel steamer for your trips.

Can I Use A Travel Steamer On All Types Of Fabric?

Most steamers can be used on all fabric types, but it’s always best to check the manufacturer’s instructions first. In general, you should avoid steaming delicate fabrics like silk or wool and any fabric with sequins or other embellishments.

What Are The Different Types Of Clothes Steamers?

There are two main types of clothes steamers: handheld and standing. Handheld steamers are smaller and more portable, making them ideal for travel. Standing steamers are larger and require an ironing board, but they typically have a larger water tank and produce more steam.

What Are The Best Clothing Steamers For Travel?

The best clothes steamers for travel are handheld steamers that are small and lightweight. We hope our reviews help you choose a model that works for you.

Are portable steamers worth it?

Portable steamers can be worth it for quickly removing wrinkles from clothes, especially when traveling or in a hurry.

Can I fly with a steamer in my carry-on?

It’s recommended to check with the airline and transportation security authorities as regulations vary, but many airlines consider steamers with heating elements as potentially hazardous and may not allow them in carry-on luggage.