Best Dual Voltage Curling Irons: Top 9 Travel-friendly Curlers of the Year

Owning a dual voltage curling iron is a must if you frequently travel overseas. Apart from dual voltage compatibility, these models are also lightweight and compact for the ease of travel.

For somebody who struggles with light packing for overseas business trips, the last thing I want in my luggage is a heavy-duty curling iron that needs a voltage adapter to work outside the US.

Despite the mini stature, dual voltage curling irons work in pretty much the same way as regular irons. These would make great entry-level curling wands for complete beginners due to their light built and ease-of-use. A lot of models also come with a variety of barrel sizes for easily customizable hairstyles.

Another distinct advantage of portable curling wands is rapid heat-up and heat recovery, allowing for a quick and efficient last-minute touch-up. Travel curling irons also come with some sort of heat-resistant carry pouch or case to keep the wand safely tucked inside your travel bag or handbag.

But before we get to that, let’s take a small detour to learn the basics.

Best Dual Voltage Curling Irons Comparison Chart

What Really Is a Dual Voltage Curling Iron?

A dual voltage curling iron is just like any other multi-voltage compatible electric appliance that’s meant to automatically switch between 110v-220v and 220v-240V. You would regret not having a compact-sized dual voltage curling iron with you if you often travel overseas.

Using a single voltage electrical appliance on higher voltage can instantaneously fry up the internal components, putting your money down the drain.

Of course, you can always use a voltage adapter to run your single voltage unit safely overseas but what if you forget to pack it? What if it’s not easily available in the country you’re traveling to? What’s the point of having this extra headache if you can simply buy a curler with a built-in automatic voltage converter? You get the drift.

With that being said, I should remind you that you will still need a plug adapter to the appliance in other countries as different countries have different electrical outlets. So I’d advise you to research what kind of outlet is common in your destination country to find the right plug adapter.

Top 9 Dual Voltage Travel Curling Irons for Outstanding Curls

In addition to having a universal voltage, curling irons should also be exceptional in terms of performance, offer a fair price tag, and be relatively easy to travel with. And if you’re looking for options, we’ve got you covered!

Placed below are the best dual-voltage curling irons in the game right now. Don’t forget to read through each entry to learn about their specifications and the benefits they offer!

The Beachwaver Co.S1

A grand entry that can accompany you when traveling every time is the Beachwaver Co.S1, a curling iron with a specific purpose.

This ergonomically developed curling iron contains ceramic plates to distribute heat evenly to the shaft. Since it contains a medium-sized barrel, its ceramic rod is also a bit more compact in contrast to most, standing at 5.5”. It also has a smaller clamp with an unfathomable grip, preventing one’s hair from breaking and damaging.

While the device can adapt and manipulate the texture of any hair type, the Beachwaver S1 stands out the most when dealing with medium-length hair, or anything that is slightly longer.

In addition to offering a time-friendly session, the Beachwaver S1 also offers a technologically advanced build that can benefit rookies as well as veterans. With a dual rotation system, a digital temperature clock, an internal heater, and an easy-to-use speed switch, the Beachwaver S1 can give you a memorable user experience!

This curling iron hardly struggles when tackling stubborn hair pieces, as it can jump from 290ºF (143ºC) to  410ºF in under 30 seconds! Additionally, when idol, the device tends to shut off automatically after 30 minutes!

All in all, if your budget contains tons of rope, don’t hold back. Despite having a hefty price tag, we would like to recommend you to invest in the Beachwaver S1, especially if you have shoulder-length hair. In addition to serving you with technologically advanced features, the Beachwaver will also give you a fair amount of reach with its 8” cord!

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Paul Mitchell Pro Tools Express Ion

Express Ion is arguably one of the finest curling irons Paul Mitchell has in their collection. This dual voltage curling wand comes with 3 different barrels for waves, tightly weaved, textured curls, and those dreamy loops. Irrespective of the texture, length, or density of your hair, you can shape and style your curls in any way you fancy with these easily interchangeable barrels.

Although it has all the features of a professional-grade curling iron, the design and controls are surprisingly beginner-friendly. If you have never used a heat styling tool before and are sick scared of burning down your hair, Express Ion would be a good place to start.

The iron offers an adjustable temp between 160 degrees to 410 degrees F, which renders it equally perfect for both fragile and extremely thick hair types. Its special ceramic barrel is coated with Express Ion Complex. It is basically a blend of various volcanic minerals.

Together with far infrared technology, it helps to minimize heat damage while styling and heal the existing damage to the outer cuticles of hair shafts. It accomplishes this feat in two ways: far-infrared heat penetrates deep into the hair shaft instead of just heating up the outer layer (which creates a big risk of hair burning).

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Gradual and consistent heating allows your hair to easily absorb all the heat and set the curls without losing the essential moisture. This consequently results in shinier hair that’s so soft, you’d want to touch it all day. Secondly, Express Ion ceramic rod releases negative ions to neutralize static and frizz, leaving you with well-defined, soft, and long-lasting curls.

The solid ceramic rod has an impeccably short heat-up and heat-recovery time. It takes just a couple of seconds to reach the highest temperature and holds the heat for long enough to give you a uniform finish.

Once you familiarize yourself with the know-how of this curling wand, it should take you roughly 10-15 minutes to create large and loose beachy waves and less than 30 minutes for ringlet curls. I also loved the fact that you can clip the barrel quite close to the root without worrying about leaving noticeable crease marks on your hair.

My only issue is with the three-fingered gloves that come with the product I’d strongly suggest using a full heat protectant glove to potential burn injuries at bay.

The Beachwaver Co.S1.25

If you fancy the previous entry but would like something a bit more sizable for your lengthy, strands, try assessing the Beachwaver Co.S1.25, our next recommendation.

In contrast to the Beachwaver S1, the S1.25 is drastically different but also shares mutual views. With a larger barrel and a slightly larger swivel cord, the Beachwaver S1.25 pairs well with longer hair while offering more flexibility to users.

Just like its predecessor, the Beachwaver S1.25 comprises ceramic plates that evenly distribute a generous amount of heat to one’s hair. However, since it does cater to a different demographic, the barrel’s diameter is slightly longer, standing at 1.25”. It too comes with a digital temperature clock, a convenient speed switch, and a multipurpose home button. The device is extremely time-efficient and can go from 290ºF (143ºC)  to 410ºF in half a minute as well!

When all is said and done, the Beachwaver S1.25 could be ideal for long hair, especially if your main aim is to create relaxed waves or bouncy curls! It is incredibly user-friendly, contains ceramic plates, and offers tons of features to straighten your hair in various ways. When idle, the Beachwaver S1.25 also shuts off on its own within 30 minutes!

Overall, the Beachwaver S1.25 has the same impression as the S1, and could very well be a dealbreaker because of its price. However, if you’re tired of showcasing your long hair with loose and unappealing waves and curls, consider saving up for the Beachwaver S1.25 as it will bring long-lasting results in no time! You won’t have to replace it anytime soon, either, as it comprises robust materials that expand its shelf life every day!

Get Beachwaver S1.25 at Amazon

Hoson Curling Iron

Dual voltage curling irons are often seen in a positive light for their ability to adapt to the voltage requirements of multiple countries. However, they’re not pursued as much since people believe that each of them has a substantial price tag. And while some of the former entries will require you to spend big bucks if you want to get access to their services, the Hoson curling iron is surely not one of them.

The Hoson Curling Iron is the best budget-friendly, dual-voltage curling iron on the market at the moment. It uses tourmaline ceramic technology to improve the visuals and enhance the texture of one’s hair without damaging the cuticles. While it isn’t necessarily the fastest curling iron out there, Hoson can swiftly move up to 450ºF from 225ºF in just a minute, which is impressive, to say the least. It also gives users 9 different temperature settings to pick from!

An impressive feat of this curling iron is its hardware, which prioritizes safety more than anything. Across the curling clip is an insulated tip that enables the device to run for a substantial period of time without heating up or injuring the user. Underneath the clip is an LCD that monitors the temperature, with a power button and temperature button that makes the device convenient for newbies.

Another selling point of this device is its handle, which contains anti-skidding properties. The 360º rotation cord can also be of great use when dealing with unruly hair!

In conclusion, the Hoson Curling Iron can be a great tool to consider if you’re looking for a short-term investment. Its tourmaline ceramic-infused plates can give your hair an exceptional finish without absorbing moisture, while its multiple temperature settings can be great for every hair type. And although the low-cost materials of it won’t always bring forward noticeable results, Hoson still remains in a good light in our eyes due to how much it offers at such a reasonable price!

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HOT TOOLS Black Gold Curling Iron

For a slightly higher budget, you can also add the HOT TOOLS Professional Curling Iron to your arsenal!

HOT TOOLS has always been a prominent brand in beauty and hair care, and this Professional Curling iron is the perfect representative that backs up the company’s legacy. Containing a uniquely shaped narrow barrel, the Black Gold uses its titanium-coated, 24k gold curling plates to create waves and curls with tons of moisture. The plate material also reduces the friction caused when curling the hair, shielding the cuticles from sustaining any damage.

Catering to any hair type, the Black Gold offers users multiple heat settings that can be as high as 455ºF and as low as 280ºF. Working under pressure is a specialty of this device, as it comes in clutch with its Special Pulse technology to heat the plates up in no time. Its technologically advanced plates also allow the Black Gold to preserve the selected temperature for longer periods.

With a 9ft. swivel cord and a handle with an incredible grip, the Black Gold definitely has what it takes to offer each user a memorable experience. And if you happen to be clumsy when working with a curling iron, don’t stress about it too much! The Black Gold contains an extra-long cool tip that will always look out for your palms and fingers!

All in all, the Black Gold is a sublime dual-voltage curling iron to invest in if you’ve got a tight budget, travel overseas, and have a tightly packed schedule. And although its starting temperature setting of 280ºF could be damaging for those with fine or thin hair, this gadget is the best possible curling iron for coarse hair!

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CHI Spin N Curl Ceramic Rotating Curler

Chi Spin N Curl neither looks nor works like your everyday curling wands. Its futuristic and time-saving design makes it a great choice for people who want to delve deeper into DIY hairstyling game without spending an obscene amount of money right away.

The barrel on this device automatically wraps and twirls the hair around at the touch of a dedicated Curl button. Moreover, the handle has two buttons to let you alternate curling directions to get a well-rounded hairstyle.

Manually creating curls in different directions like this otherwise takes a lot of time and the expertise of a professional, whereas Chi takes roughly 8-15 minutes to complete the look on even the longest and thickest hair.

Due to the peculiar design of the curler, it would be tricky to maneuver it on short hair. The longer your hair is, the better are your chances of getting inch-perfect curls with this iron.

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Like all the best curling irons that exist today, this one also offers adjustable temperature (370-410 degrees) for safely and seamlessly curling your locks. You can choose from the temperature presets on the digital readout, which totally rules out the possibility of going overboard with the heat.

The iron heats up to 370 degrees in 30-40 seconds. Plus, it has a timer setting to further lessen the risk of hair burning. Turn on the timer and the machine will beep 3 times as soon as the curls are set and ready to be released. It’s a really nice touch, something I wasn’t expecting in a curler so affordably priced.

This dual voltage curling iron is designed to work on both 110v and 220v without the need of a voltage adapter. It’s a fairly lightweight unit, which should fit into your carry-on bag without gobbling up too much space.

The only thing to keep in mind is that this curler has quite a learning curve to it. It could take you a couple of trials and errors before you perfect the art of positioning your hair between the barrel.

FURIDEN Hair Straightener and Curling Iron

If you are planning on frequently switching between bone-straight hair and gorgeous curls, this 2-in-1 styling tool could save you a lot of money and effort. It’s basically a flat iron with titanium floating plates that not-so-surprisingly works just as fine as a curling iron.

I’d highly recommend it to anyone fighting serious frizz problem or those who always have a hard time keeping their curls to hold shape.

The titanium plates have a glossy finish on them to prevent snagging and yanking while handling tangle-prone, extremely coarse, and thick hair.

It also smooths out the frizz-infested split and rough ends by preventing moisture loss. It has 20 heat settings, ranging from 265-450 degrees F (default setting is 355 degrees), so A+ for flexibility. No matter how fine and sensitive your hair is, with so many heat settings, you can style your hair without worrying about setting your curls on fire.

Get Furiden Straightener & Curling Iron at Amazon

Even heat conduction and consistent heating from the titanium plates help to quickly set the curls and make them last for an entire day without needing constant touch-ups.

What’s even cooler is that you can change the temperature simply by rotating the bass instead of constantly clicking buttons. I just wish a machine this smart had a built-in memory for remembering the last chosen heat setting. The cord is a little short as well but that’s something I can live with.

The premium-quality 3D titanium plates reach the target temperature in 15-20 seconds and hold the heat incredibly well, resulting in a uniform, glossy finish. Curling with a flat iron can get some time to get used too but once you figure out the basics, you will never look back.

The dual voltage compatible (110v-240v) unit even has a convenient plate lock button on the handle for safe and easy traveling with the tool. And just in case you forget to turn off the device before leaving your hotel room, that’s cool too. It has a 60-minute auto shut-off function to ward off the hazard of thermal overload.

Bed Head Wave Artist Deep Waver

The fourth entry on this list best of the best dual voltage curling irons is a great tool for keeping pesky frizz and dullness out of your way. Head Wave employs industry’s finest tourmaline ceramic technology to set your curls without exposing your locks to dangerous levels of heat.

The barrel on this wand stands out for its sculpted texture, allowing you to effortlessly create inch-perfect beachy waves and tousled curls. Its rapid heat-up and even heat distributions make the curls come out looking all shiny and bouncy, something very hard to achieve without curl enhancer and shine-booster sprays.

You don’t even have to be too invested in the process to get the most out of this wand, thanks to its simple and user-friendly design and controls. It works fine on both super fine as well as thick, resistant, and unruly hair.

If you have ultra-fine and limped down hair that simply refuses to hold the curl for more than an hour or two, Deep Waver could be a welcome addition to your hair care routine. It is essentially a wave iron that’s specifically designed to create a uniform wave with lots of body and texture.

The iron is not heavy at all and comes with a long flexible cord, so it won’t ever let the hand fatigue set in. You can rapidly change the temperatures using the buttons on the handle.

Here’s a small caveat, though: the heat settings on it are specified as low, medium, and high instead of mentioning the degrees which may strike as a little odd to some.

So I would suggest starting off with the lowest setting and gradually work your way to the top, if needed, to keep the hot iron from setting your hair ablaze. I loved how thoroughly it ups every strand in order, thus setting, defining the curls, and adding extra volume to them at the same time.

It even has an auto shut-off and barrel lock switch for the safety and ease of travel, which is quite a rare feature in budget-friendly curling irons. The iron gets smoldering hot in seconds, so if you are a curling wand rookie, heed the warnings on the package about temperature.

Hot Tools Super Tool Professional Curling Iron

The Signature Series by Hot Tools might seem a better bargain for the money due to its slightly smaller price. But if you are serious about upping your curling game, Professional series is what you should be after.

It is available in 7 barrel sizes, starting from 0.375” to 2”, so it’s a viable option for both short and Rapunzel-length hair. You can style and shape your curls with this wand in any way you imagine, be it large-bodied, gentle beach waves or tight and bouncy, highly texturized curls. It uses Pulse technology for instant heat-up and long-lasting heat retention.

Long-lasting heat retention is what mainly separates professional-grade curling wands from regular hot irons. This device also has heat sensors that help the iron hold the target temperature throughout the entire styling process for a dazzling finish and remarkable definition on your curls.

You can swiftly jump back and forth between different temperatures to create a distinct look without risking heat damage, thanks to the Rheostat temp control dial on the handle. The temp range of 280-430 degrees F makes the unit suitable for all hair types.

Apart from making your curls sing and shine, it also replenishes the tresses by sealing moisture into the hair shafts. This keeps your curls frizz-free, long-lasting, and silky smooth for several hours, even on the muggiest days of the year.

Brownie points for including a rotating cool tip that makes wrapping and spiraling the tresses a cakewalk. A foldaway safety stand is also there to keep the hot curler stay put without damaging the counter-top material.

However, I wish it came without the stand as it often comes in the way of the hair and the barrel. If you don’t watch closely, bits of your hair could get easily trapped inside it.

Some Great Benefits of Using a Dual Voltage Curling Wand

If you are still wondering whether a dual voltage curling wand is worth the investment, here’s a list of the top advantages of getting a dual voltage curling wand to help you make up your mind:

Frequently Asked Questions

While the former segments will make the decision-making process easier and enable you to side with one of the many ideal dual-voltage curling irons out there, remember to read through this part of the article if you still have basic questions regarding dual-voltage curling irons!

How do we differentiate dual-voltage curling irons from normal curling irons? 

Dual-voltage irons can be hard to recognize when they’re put inside the same box as standard curling irons. However, a quick and easy way to separate one from the other could be done by reading through the labels.

Single voltage curling irons usually have a label that says “120V” which is typically located at the bottom of the model. On the other hand, dual-voltage curling irons have a label of “240V,” also located around the handle or the base of the curling iron.

Can I buy a dual-voltage curling iron with a budget of $100?

While having a budget of $100 might seem relatively moderate, you’ll find a series of dual voltage curling irons with exceptional qualities. In fact, among the list we’ve mentioned, two curling irons that can seamlessly fit under a budget of $100 is the Black Gold curling iron of HOT TOOLS and Hoson Curling Iron.

Conclusion

I hope this post helped you figure out how to choose a dual voltage curling iron that fulfills the unique challenges posed by your hair. The best dual voltage curling irons are meant to keep things simple, which is why they sport a no-frills, user-friendly design.

You should be able to squeeze it in your cabin bag without any hassle and use it for a quick touch-up just about anytime, anywhere. That’s all for now. Good luck finding your hair’s perfect travel companion.

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