These affordable, compact hairdryers leave little excuse for a bad hair day while travelling.
1. Babyliss Compact
The 1 000-watt Babyliss Compact travel hairdryer is tiny – about the same height and circumference as a large coffee mug – and surprisingly powerful for its size.
The fold-up handle makes it conveniently small enough to tuck into a vanity bag. It heats up quickly and at 220 grams can easily be packed into your overnight bag for a business or weekend trip.
Costs R139
Clicks (tel 0860-254-257, www.clicks.co.za).
2. Remington Power Travel
The 1 400-watt Remington Power Travel hairdryer has a fold-up handle and 180-centimetre-long power cord for better reach – longer than the others featured here.
It’s a little bulky – the heaviest of these four at 330 grams – and noisy, but gets two thumbs up for the best drying power. Pack it into a bigger bag for a longer trip.
Costs R199
Simplicity Online (tel 011-021-8812, www.simplicityonline.co.za).
3. Philips Compact
The Philips Compact hairdryer may be the only one of these four without a fold-up handle, but it’s still small enough to tuck into a suitcase. The 1 400-watt dryer has two temperature settings and fits comfortably in the hand.
We love its funky purple and white styling and sturdy, yet lightweight body (260 grams). Pack it in with your camping kit – even the most rustic campsites have plug points and this hairdryer can withstand a knock or two.
Costs R149
Game (tel 0861-4263-2273, www.game.co.za).
4. Salton Haircare Travel Pack
At 1 200 watts and featuring a fold-up handle the Salton Haircare Travel Pack is a great budget buy without compromise on drying power.
In the box you’ll find a comb, brush, diffuser and concentrator nozzle, but I was more impressed that it makes very little noise and still produces impressive heat. Compact and light (260 grams) this dinky hairdryer is a noteworthy beauty buddy.
Costs R129,99
Pick n Pay (tel 0800-112-288, www.picknpay.co.za).
Plugged in
All products featured here have two-pronged plugs. Be sure to pack an adaptor that fits the plug on your hairdryer. Adaptors are readily available at hardware stores and supermarkets and cost from R17,99.
If you frequently travel internationally, pack a SKRoss World Adapter Pro+USB plug. It’s lightweight, compact, and features two USB points for charging devices such as a camera or cellphone.
Costs R500
Mobile Gadgets (tel 011-467-2360, www.mobilegadgets.co.za)
