dual voltage travel fan

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Travel Accessories

The 7 Best Portable Fans for Travel in 2024

Keep cool on the go with these top compact fans.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

As someone who’s lived in and traveled to some of the world’s hottest places, trust me when I tell you that a portable travel fan can make all the difference to your comfort — whether you’re trying to sleep without air conditioning in an Indonesian homestay, dealing with rolling blackouts in South Africa, or traveling by bus across Nicaragua.

There are many different styles of portable fans to choose from, with the best for you depending on your intended use. A wearable fan that leaves your hands free could be a lifesaver at a theme park or on a local market tour. A handheld fan that folds down to fit in your pocket is ideal for long train, plane, or bus journeys; while a foldable fan you can prop on a side table or desk will keep you cool while attempting to sleep or work in a humid hotel room. Whichever style you go for, the best portable travel fans are quiet, robust (yet lightweight), have plenty of battery life, and take up minimal space in your suitcase .

Best Overall

Jisulife handheld fan life7.

This compact fan offers impressive battery life and a powerful motor with five different wind speeds.

While the battery can last up to 19.5 hours on the slowest speed, you’ll only get 3.5 hours of use on the fastest speed.

Over the years, I’ve learned that compactness and durability are priorities when choosing travel accessories . The JisuLife Handheld Fan Life7 ticks both boxes. It's only a little larger than your average smartphone and constructed from hard-wearing ABS plastic. The 12-blade fan head is bracketed so that it can rotate through 150 degrees, allowing you to position it perfectly for handheld use, for wearing around your neck on the included lanyard, or for folding it so that it can sit unsupported on your hotel desk or bedside table.

This model comes in a 3600mAh version as well, but I prefer the 5000mAh for its superior power, which cools effectively whether you’re indoors or out. Use the single button to toggle through five different wind speeds. A digital display reminds you which you’ve selected, and also conveniently shows remaining battery life. Depending on wind speed, you can expect between 3.5 and 19.5 hours of use on a single charge, after which the fan can be powered up again using the included USB-C cable. A safe lock switch prevents it from turning on accidentally as well.

The Details: 8.2 ounces | 7.6 x 3.3 x 1.7 inches | Up to 19.5 hours battery life | Rechargeable

Best Wearable

Andwing portable neck fan.

This pick can be worn necklace-style or around the waist and is subtler and more stylish than most wearable fans.

The battery tends to run down quickly once more than half is depleted.

If you’re planning on extended hours of sightseeing in extreme heat, a wearable fan is a complete lifesaver. The Andwing Portable Neck Fan is one of my favorite choices — partly because it's quiet and effective, and partly because its compact, black-and-white design is much more subtle and more stylish than other wearable fans. This is because the cooling mechanism is concealed so that from the outside, it doesn’t look like a fan at all.

It comes with an adjustable lanyard for wearing around your neck; alternatively, you can use the integrated slot on the back to attach it to a belt. When you’re not using it, the fan fits easily into a purse or backpack pocket . There are three wind speeds to choose from as well. Depending which you go for, the 3000mAh battery lasts between four and 10 hours and takes approximately 2.5 hours to recharge using the included USB-C cable. You can also see the remaining battery life and wind speed on the fan’s discreet LED display.

The Details: 7.4 ounces | 4.6 x 3.1 x 1.5 inches | Up to 10 hours of battery life | Rechargeable

Best Neck Fan

Asnug neck fan.

Resembling a pair of headphones, this fan offers a stylish, hands-free way to stay cool on the go.

Although comfortable, the fan is relatively heavy and may take time to get used to.

The Asnug Rechargeable Neck Fan is another excellent option for those that want a wearable fan to provide hands-free cooling while traveling, sightseeing, working out, or running errands. I love that the fan imitates a pair of over-the-ear headphones and that it comes in a wide variety of pearlescent colors designed to complement your outfit, rather than detract from it. These range from goes-with-anything black or white to more unusual shades like crystal green or light purple.

The fan is also adjustable and comfy to wear. Vents along the length of the neckband provide 360 degrees of cooling airflow. The brushless motor runs quietly, while the fan’s lack of blades eliminates any risk of it getting tangled in long hair. Use the single button to switch between three different wind speeds. Depending on which speed you choose, the 4000mAh battery offers between four and 16 hours of use. When it runs flat, the fan can be recharged using the included micro USB cable.

The Details: 12 ounces | 8.6 x 5.5 x 2.4 inches | Up to 16 hours of battery life | Rechargeable

Best Pocket-size

Jisulife handheld mini fan.

In addition to being an effective cooling device, this fan doubles as a flashlight and power bank.

The unfolding mechanism could be a little bit smoother.

Those that appreciate multipurpose versatility will love the JisuLife Handheld Fan Life8 Plus, which features a USB output for use as a power bank and a handle that doubles as a 60-lumen flashlight. These features are especially handy for long journeys or trips to countries where the electricity supply is not always reliable. The fan also stands out for its foldable design, which conceals the blades to protect them from damage when not in use while also making it compact enough to fit into a pocket.

The fan can be handheld (using the included wristlet to guard against dropping) or propped up on a flat surface using the folding handle as a stand. The soft blades won’t hurt you if you touch them accidentally. Choose between three wind speeds (all of which are near-silent) and enjoy between 11 and 48 hours of operating time thanks to the powerful 4500mAh battery. You can recharge the fan via USB-C cable. Colors range from pink to mint green, white, and brown.

The Details: 6.3 ounces | 5.2 x 1.7 x 1.6 inches | Up to 46 hours of battery life | Rechargeable

Best Clip-on

Beskar portable clip on fan.

A sturdy clip allows the fan to grip to almost any surface, making it ideal for use in the outdoors.

Some may find it a little too bulky for convenient air travel.

Made of durable ABS plastic, the palm-sized Beskar Portable Clip-on Fan comes with a heavy-duty clip for attaching it to a wide variety of horizontal and vertical surfaces. The clip is padded with rubber to prevent it from leaving marks or scratches, while the fan can be oriented in any direction — even upside down. I love it for car or RV camping, cruises, and long-distance journeys when stable, flat surfaces are in short supply.

The bottom of the clip is wide enough for use as a standard desk fan, too. Glossy blades repel dust, while the brushless motor is quiet with a maximum output of 40 decibels. Choose from four wind speeds and enjoy between three and 12 hours of battery life. The 2000mAh battery can be recharged via the USB-C port in approximately three hours.

The Details: 9 ounces | 4.9 x 6. x 2.2 inches | Up to 12 hours of battery life | Rechargeable

Best Foldable

Cooperwin travel fan.

This fan is comparable in size to a small tablet and equally easy to pack.

Battery life is limited for faster wind speeds, although it can be plugged in.

Available in black, pink, or white, the Cooperwin Portable Travel Fan is equipped with a foldable stand that swivels through 180 degrees to stand on a desk or bedside table, or to hang flush against the wall. It weighs 8.6 ounces and folds flat, making it a lightweight and conveniently packable option for all kinds of travel. At a maximum of 40 decibels, it puts out the same amount of noise as a refrigerator, making it plenty quiet enough to run while you sleep.

The fan has a unique front dial that allows you to make minute adjustments to wind speed, with 100 different levels to choose from. Wind speed and remaining battery are displayed on a digital screen as percentages for maximum accuracy. While the battery only lasts about 30 to 45 minutes on the fastest speed, it can be plugged into any laptop, power bank, or wall adapter with a USB port for extended use.

The Details: 8.6 ounces | 6.9 x 5.7 x 1.6 inches | Rechargeable

Best Misting Fan

Handfan portable misting fan.

The option to augment three wind speeds with a mist of cooling water makes this fan the perfect choice for extreme heat.

The water tank is quite small so you’ll need a way of refilling it on the go.

The six-blade Portable Misting Fan from HandFan offers three wind speeds and a separate button for optional misting. This fine spray of water can make all the difference in high heat and humidity, helping you to cool down more quickly and keep skin hydrated. I really like that the fan’s water tank is transparent so you can see when you need to refill. The 5200mAh battery provides up to six hours of run time on the highest setting and up to 22 hours on the lowest setting. A series of LED lights indicate how much battery is left.

The angle of the fan head can be adjusted through 180 degrees, allowing for three different types of setup. Use it as a handheld fan or wear it around your neck on the included lanyard for on-the-go scenarios or fold the handle backward to create a free-standing desk fan. The fan also doubles as a portable power bank for keeping your phone and other small electronics charged. With independent USB and USB-C outputs, you can even charge two devices simultaneously.

The Details: 10.8 ounces | 5 x 4 x 1.5 inches | Up to 22 hours of battery life | Rechargeable

Tips for Buying a Portable Fan

Pack for your destination.

When choosing a portable fan, choose one with features suited to your destination. For example, a high-powered fan with stronger wind speeds will make all the difference in a country with extremely high temperatures and little chance to escape them (like Egypt, where sights are not air conditioned and summer temperatures routinely exceed 100 degrees). You may be able to get away with a less expensive, less powerful fan for destinations with milder temperatures.

Packing for your destination also means considering what style of fan will work best. A desk or standing fan is perfect for use in a hotel room where you’re likely to find an abundance of even surfaces. When space is limited, or you want to use the fan on the go, a handheld or wearable fan will be best. Choosing a lightweight fan that takes up as little suitcase space as possible is a priority for air travel; while those traveling by car can afford to choose something heavier and more powerful.

Battery life is key

Battery life can vary widely between different portable fan models. When choosing the right one for you, you should check how long the battery lasts on each setting and compare that to your requirements. For example, a fan may offer a full day of power on the lowest setting, but only one hour of power on the highest setting. If you’re likely to need the highest setting, you may want to opt for one with a better lifespan on max power.

Think about noise

Some portable fans are significantly louder than others, which can be frustrating if you’re trying to sleep or are worried about irritating others on a sightseeing tour or public transport journey. A maximum output of around 40 decibels is ideal since this makes the running noise of the fan comparable to that of a refrigerator, even on the most powerful setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely — portable fans are specifically designed for travel with a focus on lightweight packability. If you’re worried about whether a portable fan will be permitted on an airplane, don’t be. For flights within (and departing from) the United States, TSA states that electric fans are permitted in your carry-on and checked luggage. Although other destinations and transport authorities may have different rules, I have never had a problem traveling with a portable fan on any of my adventures to more than 50 countries.

The best portable fans use a rechargeable battery that can be powered over and over again using the included cable (typically with a USB or USB-C connection). How long they last in between each charge depends on several factors including the battery capacity (measured in mAh) and what setting you choose (assuming that your fan has more than one wind speed). Obviously, the higher the setting, the faster the battery will run down. If you need yours to last for a long time without access to power, consider investing in a power bank for on-the-go charging.

TSA doesn’t have a specific rule about neck fans; they fall under “electric fans” as described above. Therefore, you should be able to pack them in your carry-on or checked luggage without issue. Wearing your neck fan should not be a problem either — just be sure to choose a quiet one that won’t disturb your fellow passengers.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Jessica Macdonald has been writing about travel gear and accessories for more than 10 years. She often packs a portable fan for her travels, and used one on extended backpacking trips across Southeast Asia and South America. She also kept one at home while living in South Africa, where temperatures regularly exceed 90 degrees and rolling blackouts often see a loss of power for several hours a day.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

Best Travel Fans to Keep You Cool in Hot Destinations

Electronics , LUGGAGE

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

Headed somewhere hot and want a portable method to stay cool? We asked TFG readers to share their picks for the best travel fans so you can keep your temperature down!

Best Travel Fans

Written By: Tae Haahrr

Table Of Contents

Traveling to a warm destination can be tricky if some of your accommodation options don’t have air conditioning and you need to stay cool or you don’t want to overheat during an excursion like a sunset boat ride or a walking tour.

We’ve asked TFG readers to share their picks for the best portable fan for travel so you can stay cool no matter where you are!

Handheld Fans for Sightseeing

JISULIFE 3in1 Pocket Handheld Mini Fan

Mini Portable Fan for Travel

The JISULIFE 3in1 Pocket Handheld Mini Fan  is slim and lightweight, perfect for dropping in your bag and pulling out whenever you need to cool down.

Another Disney travel fan favorite, one TFG reader says, “We go to Disney all the time and I hate the heat! I always bring my little fan that attaches to my phone and I LOVE it!!! I also use it when traveling. Everyone always comments on my fan and wishes they had one. We always bring a battery backup for our phones when we go to the parks so we have no problem with using the phone fan.”

This 3in1 mini handheld fan is USB rechargeable through a regular USB socket, laptop, power bank , or car charger, it also has soft wings that are safe to use near your fingers.

Travelon 3-Speed Folding Fan

Best Travel Fan for Packable Convenience

The Travelon Folding Fan is one of the best personal fan options on the market, per TFG recommendations.

It’s quiet, can hang or sit on a flat surface, and is light and easy to carry. One TFG reader shared, “I’ve used this one for a couple of years and it has worked well.”

It requires four AAA batteries and one reader says that it is “So handy, it has saved me when flying.” But be careful with medium to long length hair.

Tripole Mini Handheld Fan

Best Personal Fan for Hot Days

If you’re looking for a truly small travel fan then the Tripole Mini Handheld Fan  is for you!

It can be thrown into your purse and carted around whenever you need it. One TFG reader shares, “I always use this fan when traveling, love the size.”

This is one of the best small travel fan models around and is loved by travelers who experience the occasional hot flash.

JISULIFE Portable Neck Fan Hands Free Bladeless Fan

Hands Free Portable Neck Fan

This hands free bladeless neck fan by JISULIFE can send the wind without clogging your hands by simply placing it on your neck. Designed without wings, it can be used safely by children and the elderly so you can cool down anywhere. It’s definitely a good choice for the best personal fan.

One wearer shares, “ I love this fan which looks like you have a pair of headphones resting on your neck. It’s powerful but not too noisy and keeps me cool, it runs on charge for quite a while, depending on what speed you have on, but it’s easy enough to charge up. With the cool air going straight to your neck it really makes a difference. I recommend this fan & great price too.”

Compact and lightweight for carrying. It is wearable throughout your daily life without any sense of displacement or awkwardness.

VersionTECH Mini Handheld Fan

Versatile Small Travel Fan

The VersionTECH Mini Fan is a hand-held fan that is ideal for traveling according to TFG readers.

It can be hung, clipped, set on a table, or held, making it perfect for someone who’s moving around. Its battery is rechargeable via a USB port and you can choose from three different speeds!

It comes in five colors and will fit perfectly into your bag. One TFG reader shares, “It is smaller and light, great for travel.”

O2COOL Sport Carabiner Misting Fan

Misting Portable Fan

The Sport Carabiner Misting Fan is perfect to combat those hot days. It combines the cooling power of a breeze with a refreshing mist of water, keeping you comfortable in the heat.

It has a handy carabiner hook so you can keep it on you at all times. And its compact design makes it really easy to cart around and pack.

This mini portable fan is great if you’re hitting up a theme park with the kids or sightseeing on a sweltering day. It’s small but the breeze is sure to make hot days more bearable.

Portable Travel Fans for Your Accommodation

SmartDevil 3 Speed Travel Mini Fan

Readers’ Favorite Travel Fan

According to TFG readers, the SmartDevil 3 Speed Travel Mini Fan  is the best portable fan on the market. It’s small but mighty and makes little sound.

It’s tiny and its 6-ounce weight won’t take up a ton of space in your bag. But it’s powerful with three speeds. One TFG reader shares, “My husband travels with this and loves it. It goes everywhere with him and it’s very small.”

This portable fan is USB compatible mode and has a removable, rechargeable battery. But note that the battery is lithium so you’ll have to carry at least the battery with you in a bag to comply with TSA requirements. Another TFG reader shares, “Brought it to Scotland and worked well as a fan but also as a nightlight on a sleeper train!”

O2COOL Treva 5” Portable Fan

Packable Mini Battery Operated Fan

The Treva 5” Portable Fan is perfect for travel with its 5-inch span and relatively flat body. Making it small and optimal for packing!

It runs off two D batteries, has two speeds, and makes minimal noise. One TFG reader shares, “I got this last summer and took it with me on a camping trip during one of the hottest days in August and it was a lifesaver! It folds so it lays kind of flat and I loved that it had a tilt adjustment.”

It’s under $10 and you can get it in seven adorable colors (check out the fun, bold green). What more are you really looking for in a travel fan?

Efluky Portable Fan

USB Rechargeable Camping Travel Fan

The Efluky Portable Fan is a rechargeable USB fan that works well for travel. It’s a whopping 4 inches, ensuring that it won’t take up a ton of space and it’s super easy to pack and carry!

One TFG reader says, “If you’re headed somewhere hot this summer, this little fan is the bomb! Only $15, USB rechargeable, and it really pushes some air. Was a lifesaver last year in Budapest and Paris!”

It’s powerful but quiet and will save you when air conditioning isn’t around to keep you cool. But don’t take it from us, this TFG reader shares, “The best thing I’ve ever bought just may be this Efluky portable fan from Amazon! A lifesaver in nearly 90-degree heat with no AC, especially on public transportation. It has a USB rechargeable lithium battery, six-hour battery life and pushes quite a bit of air for such a small fan.”

Beskar Clip on Mini Desk Fan

Battery Operated Mini Travel Fan with Clip

The  Beskar Battery Operated Clip on Mini Desk Fan with 3 speed airflow is a fan that TFG readers love. The maximum working decibel is just 40db, it will not disturb you at all when you are working or sleeping.

This model is particularly helpful if you’re planning on taking a stroller-aged child for a summer tour around Disneyland and need something to clip to the stroller. It’s sturdy, and durable, and the fan gaps are tiny so there’ll be no fingers getting anywhere near the blades.

One TFG reader says, “I like that I can clip it on something or stand it on a surface. In my experience, the rechargeable battery doesn’t last all night so I almost always plug it into my USB charger.”

Vornado Flippi V6 Personal Air Circulator Fan

Portable Low-Noise Fan

The Vornado Flippi is one of the best personal fan choices if you’re looking to circulate air around you while you sleep.

While it’s a little bit bigger than some of the other fan choices at 1.7 lbs and 6.2 inches tall, it’s still small and travel-friendly. It emits a light breeze and makes limited noise, so if you’re sensitive to noise and want something non-disruptive to push a little air on you, this is your fan!

This is a stylish personal fan, coming in four fancy colors (check out the cute teal!) with an adjustable fan head.  One TFG reader declares it’s the “perfect travel fan.”

Lasko 2002W Personal Fan

Mini Household Fan

The Lasko 2002W Personal Fan is the personal equivalent of your average household fan.

You can move the fan head up and down or to either side to ensure it’s focused on where you want the air to go. It’s fairly quiet, but the sound does increase as you go up in the settings. And it’s much more powerful than it looks!

While it does require assembly, it doesn’t need any tools to put it together. Overall, TFG readers “really like this fan.”

Gaiatop USB Desk Fan

Small Personal Desk Fan

The Gaiatop USB Desk  Fan  is a small travel fan that TFG readers recommend packing on your next adventure.

It has two settings and is adjustable so you’re getting the right amount of air in the direction you want. It’s also said to be really quiet. One TFG reader shares, “I adore this little fan.”

It’s versatile because you can use a USB to operate it. Another TFG reader shares, “I also have this fan and LOVE it! Can’t travel without it.” 

Compass Rose Universal Travel Plug Charger

Universal Travel Adapter with Two USB Ports including One Type C

A universal travel adapter is an absolute must for any traveler. It allows you to charge three devices at once so you can charge your laptop, phone, and portable charger all at the same time!

A solid product by  Travel Fashion Girl , we’ve specifically designed it with globetrotters in mind, making it possibly  the   best  power charger for travel. You can also use it in over 150+ countries. Plus, it’s red so you won’t leave it behind on a white hotel room wall.

If you choose a fan with a plug or USB, remember to bring the above international travel adapter so you can charge up to three of your electronics at the same time!

Watch the  video  above or read  this post  to learn about the differences between travel adapters, converters, and voltage!

What do you think are the best travel fans? Share your thoughts below!

Want more travel gadget articles? Read these: 

• What is the Best Travel Adapter?
• Stop Tangled Electronic Cables With These Travel Cord Organizer Options
• The Ultimate Backpack Organizer: Pack and Unpack in Seconds
• Best Travel Kettle Will Help You Start Your Day Right

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

Hope you liked this post on the best travel fans. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Just used the JISULIFE 3 in 1 fan during a trip to Jamaica in August. Love that it folds up small enough to fit in a purse while traveling / sightseeing (even going to dinner as most of the restaurants were open air). It also folds so you can set it on a table. Very useful and helpful!

I’m off to Southeast Asia in November, and I thank you for suggesting a fan! Brilliant!

I love using travel fans when I’m traveling to hot destinations! They’re so helpful in keeping me cool and comfortable.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

The 7 Best Portable Fans We’ve Found Online for You

Cool off anywhere and everywhere

Julia is the Associate Commerce Editor at The Spruce, covering all things seasonal, which means gift guides and holiday decor in the winter and patio furniture and gardening essentials in the summer. She's on a constant hunt to find the perfect gift for everyone in your life, from new dads to 5-year-old girls, through extensive research and testing as a product reviewer.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• What to Look For
• Why Trust The Spruce

The Spruce / Jenica Currie

Portable fans keep you cool during summer—whether you need an extra breeze while entertaining outdoors or on a covered porch. Their flexible power sources make them easy to use anywhere, and their automatic shut-off features help preserve battery power.

Quiet portable fans are especially useful to keep cool at night or in an office where you want to avoid disturbing others, while a wearable fan can come in handy everywhere you walk.

Best Overall

Milwaukee jobsite fan.

Durable and effective

Two power options

Great battery life

Battery and charger set cost extra

The Milwaukee M18 Jobsite Fan has a lot of cooling power, a sturdy design, and can be powered by a Milwaukee rechargeable battery or a regular plug. When operating on its lowest mode, the unit can run for up to 17 hours on its battery, making it a great option for long projects, like a garage makeover in the peak of hot weather.

You can still plug it into an outlet, but the battery and charger set costs extra , so you'll only be able to use it plugged in if you don't add that to your cart. It uses standard Milwaukee 18v batteries though, so you may already have a compatible battery if you have any 18v Milwaukee drills or saws .

The fan lacks an oscillation feature, but it can be tilted to 120 degrees and has nine locking positions, so you can control the direction where it circulates air. It also has three different speed settings and on its highest setting, the fan can reach a maximum air velocity of 18 miles per hour. Despite that, it's not noisy.

Despite being compact and light, it's is not flimsy. Plus, there are four keyhole hangers built into it, too, so you can hang it up to circulate air above you.  

Dimensions : 14.07 x 10.29 x 7.15 inches | Weight : 5.2 pounds | Power Source : Battery-powered

Best Budget

Honeywell turbo on the go personal fan.

Multiple ways to use

Very light and compact

Quiet operation

Two power source options

Only one power setting

Batteries not included

With an under-$20 price tag and a well-functioning design, the Honeywell Turbo On The Go Fan is our favorite budget-friendly portable fan. The fan is incredibly compact and lightweight, weighing just under half a pound. It has a lot of useful modes as well, and you can use it as a desk fan, hang it up on a hook or exercise equipment hand, or use it as a handheld fan. 

This model only has one speed setting, but it offers a good amount of air movement considering its size. That being said, the closer you are to the fan, the more you will get out of its cooling power because this small, handheld-friendly fan is not going to offer you the same power as a larger stand-alone model.

One of this fan’s greatest features is its quiet operation. When paired with its small size, that makes it an unobtrusive option you can use in a variety of spaces. You can also choose to power it by plugging it into a power source with a USB cable or with AA batteries. While the fan comes with a USB cord, it does not come with batteries. 

Dimensions : 12.5 x 4.74 inches | Weight : 0.49 pounds | Power Source : Batteries or USB cable

Best Convertible

Shark flexbreeze fan with instacool mist attachment.

Five speed settings

Can tilt and oscillate

Misting feature

Heavier than other portable fans

After testing the Shark Flexbreeze Fan, we can confirm it does it all. The fan transforms from tabletop to standing with the touch of a button and the clearly marked button makes it easy to detach the fan from its pedestal. The fan then has a post that opens into legs to stand the fan on your desk or dining table.

We loved the five fan speeds, the oscillation feature, and the manual tilt mechanism that ensured our fan was always at the perfect angle. You can control it all with the included remote, and it connects to the back of the fan via a magnet, so it won't get lost.

Even on the highest setting (boost mode), the fan remained unobtrusive. There's also a misting feature for really warm days—just add the included misting attachment to the front of the fan and connect your hose.

Despite being corded fan, you can also use it on just the battery, which will run for 24 hours. While the blades are exposed, there's not enough room to stick your fingers inside, so we would feel safe using the fan around children.

The only downsides of this fan are that it's quite heavy (the heaviest on our list), even without the pedestal, and you can only recharge it on the pedestal, so it's best suited for around the house.

Dimensions : 13.8 x 13.8 x 37 inches | Weight : 12,2 pounds | Power Source : Corded electric or rechargeable battery

• PHOTO: The Spruce / Jenica Currie

Ryobi Cordless Hybrid Whisper Series Fan Kit

Built-in handle and hanging option

Battery life could be better

We recommend the Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Hybrid Whisper Series Fan Kit for anyone looking for a portable fan that’s especially quiet, but still powerful. This fan lets you choose from a low-speed option of 930 RPM, a medium-speed option of 1,500 RPM, and a high-speed option of 1,850 RPM. The fan can be tilted up to 160 degrees and it has a hanging option.

RPM stands for revolutions per minute.

This is a fairly lightweight fan (it weighs under 4 pounds), and it has a built-in handle on top, so it’s easy to carry. You can power up the unit with its battery (it'll run for up to six hours) or AC adaptor. On the job site, you can just pop on a new battery when the current one dies since it uses standard Ryobi 18v batteries . It's a similar setup to our best overall —the batteries work with other Ryobi power tools. Dimensions : 15.5 x 12.9 x 11.2 inches | Weight : 3.9 pounds | Power Source : Corded electric or rechargeable battery 

Best Handheld

Amacool battery operated stroller fan.

Flexible tripod handle

Includes built-in LED lights

Fragile tripod legs

Some ship with the wrong cable

Handheld fans need to be especially flexible, which is why we like this Amacool fan so much. Instead of a basic handle, it's built on a flexible tripod that lets you stick it just about anywhere you need a cooling breeze. It's especially good for clipping onto a stroller handle or exercise equipment, and you can also set it up like a desktop fan or fold the legs together to hold it like a regular handheld fan. We love that the cover is designed with openings closer together than normal for added safety (making it great for strollers), and it also has a built-in LED light with three settings to work as a nightlight or flashlight.

Amacool says that this fan lasts up to 10 hours between charges, so you can easily leave it on all night while you're sleeping. Plus, you can use it while it's plugged in and charging.

The tripod legs are especially flexible and useful but they are a little fragile. That isn't an issue if you use it in handheld mode, but you may want to be a little careful when wrapping and unwrapping the legs from around a stroller handle.

Dimensions : 5.10 x 1.65 x 1.65 inches | Weight : 0.40 pounds | Power Source : Rechargeable battery

Best Wearable

Jisulife portable neck fan.

3 different speed options

Light and comfortable to wear

Good battery life on low mode

Have to be mindful of hair

Battery life on high mode could be longer

While handheld fans are great to take with you, the Jisulife Portable Neck Fan simply sits around your neck, so your hands are free. It's lightweight and comfortable, and it douses you with air around your neck for a remarkable cooling effect.

This fan is bladeless, but it is still possible for hair to get caught in the fan’s openings, so those with longer hair are best off wearing this with their hair tied up. On the plus side, this neck fan is very light, weighing just a little over half a pound, so most people shouldn’t find the unit uncomfortably burdensome to wear around their neck. 

The fan has a modern, low-profile design with three different modes. This model is designed to circulate air all around your neck, including at the back, which makes it an extra efficient option compared to models that only circulate air in front of the wearer. The battery can last up to 16 hours on the lowest mode, which is great, but it can only run for up to 4 hours on the high mode. When the unit does run out of power, you can recharge it with the included USB Type-C charging cable. Also, it's not completely quiet—you will hear a constant white noise while wearing it.

Dimensions : 7.8 x 7.8 inches x 2.4 inches | Weight : 0.57 pounds | Power Source : Rechargeable battery

Best for Battery Powered

Geek aire battery-operated floor fan.

Sturdy, water-resistant build

Battery life indicator

Integrated charging port

Heavier and larger than many other models

If you’re spending an extended period of time in a warm and expansive outdoor space, you may want an especially powerful portable fan like the Geek Aire CF1 Outdoor Rechargeable Floor Fan.

This is a water-resistant fan, which makes it especially suitable for the outdoors. This fan is heavier and larger than most of the other fans included in our list, which can actually be beneficial when using the fan outside since it will be more difficult to knock over than a lighter model. In terms of power, the fan’s highest setting operates at a powerful speed of 1500 CFM.

The fan tilts on its base by up to 120 degrees, and it has an integrated carrying handle. We also like that the fan has a clear LED battery life indicator, so you can easily monitor when it will need a recharge.

The fan's battery can run for four hours when operating on its high mode and for an impressive 24 hours while operating on ow mode. As a bonus, the fan has a USB charging port built into it that you can use to charge other devices when you need it.

Dimensions : 14.5 x 16.7 x 7.09 inches | Weight : 6.54 pounds | Power Source : Rechargeable battery

Final Verdict

The Milwaukee M18 Jobsite Fan is our pick for the best portable fan because it offers a lot of power in a compact and adjustable design, and its handle, hanging option, and ability to run on either corded electric or battery power make it a versatile model. For a less expensive option that still gets the job done, we recommend the Honeywell Turbo On The Go Fan (our best budget pick), because it can be positioned multiple ways, operates quietly, and is very lightweight and small, making it easy to throw in a bag and take with you anywhere on-the-go.

What to Look for in a Portable Fan

Before deciding what type of portable fan is best for you, consider the scenarios and spaces in which you intend to use it. 

• Standing Fans : Standing portable fans are easy to carry from place to place and use in an array of settings, but once they are operating they should be situated on a stable surface and remain stationary, unlike handheld fans. Some standing fans, such as our pick for the best overall portable fan, the Milwaukee M18 Jobsite Fan , also have hanging options so you can raise them off a low surface if needed. 
• Desktop Fans : Desktop fans are similar to standing fans in that they are easy to move from place to place, but they are meant to be situated on a flat surface when operating and have a smaller footprint. These fans are best suited for people looking for a portable fan to take into a hot office or keep on a nightstand in their bedroom.
• Handheld Fans : Handheld fans are typically the lightest and smallest portable fans you can buy, as they are meant to fit in the palm of your hand. Our best handheld pick, the Amacool Battery Operated Stroller Fan , has a built-in flexible tripod that lets you use it as a desk fan or even hang it securely on the handle of a stroller or the control panel of your favorite exercise equipment.
• Wearable Neck Fans : Like handheld fans, wearable neck fans offer air circulation that moves with you. However, unlike handheld models, you will not have to keep holding them the entire time they are in use, as they just sit around your neck for hands-free operation. Since they are also very compact options, neck fans offer less air circulation than standing models. Our pick for the best wearable fan, the Jisulife Portable Neck Fan , weighs a little over half a pound. 

If you can't decide what type of fan is best for you, opt for one that converts to best fit your situation. For example, our best convertible, the Shark FlexBreeze Fan converts from a standing fan to a desktop fan with the touch of a button.

When deciding what size fan you should purchase, you should consider your intended use of the fan. For instance, if you’re looking for a fan to keep you cool as you walk through an amusement park, you will likely want a handheld fan option that is slim enough to easily and comfortable grip in your palm, such as our pick for the best handheld fan, the JisuLife Handheld Mini Fan .

If you are looking for a fan to use while you work in your garage, investing in a larger portable fan that measures over a foot wide and provides greater air circulation may make more sense. Since the fan will spend a lot of time sitting on a floor while it operates and as you engage in some other activity, and you will only need to move the fan from point A to point B, rather than carry it around for long periods.

Power Source

Different fans rely on different types of power sources. Three of the most common types of power sources used are outlined below, please note that many fans included in our list can operate on two different types of power sources, with the majority of the models having one battery-operated option and one plug-in option. 

Disposable battery : Portable fans can run on disposable batteries that, once depleted, must be disposed of and replaced with new batteries. These types of fans tend to be lighter since disposable batteries tend to be lighter than rechargeable batteries. Disposable battery-operated fans also tend to cost less than rechargeable models upon initial purchase. However, you will need to buy new batteries when the fan’s battery dies, which is an added cost over time. Our pick for the best budget fan, the Honeywell Turbo On The Go Fan , can be powered via a USB cable or with AA batteries.

Rechargeable battery : Just as their names suggest, rechargeable fans have a battery that can be recharged instead of disposed of once they run out of power. While rechargeable fans may cost more when you first purchase them, they spare you trips to the convenience store to buy new batteries and thus have less long-term maintenance cost. They also lead to less waste being produced.

It can be useful to purchase a rechargeable battery-operated model that can also operate while plugged into an outlet. Our pick for the best overall portable fan, the Milwaukee M18 Jobsite Fan , can run on a rechargeable battery as well as while plugged into an outlet via its AC adaptor. When operating on its lowest mode and on its rechargeable battery, the model can run for up to 17 hours. 

How long a rechargeable or non-rechargeable unit can last on a single charge or set of batteries, respectively, will depend on factors such as the type of battery used, as well as how much power is required of the speed setting you use. For instance, if the fan you are using has a low, medium, and high mode, the battery will typically drain faster when operating on its high mode and slower when operating on its low mode.

Most battery-operated fans, whether rechargeable or not, will have the battery life listed in their product description. Keep in mind, that most product descriptions will list how long the battery lasts while operating on the fan’s lowest mode.

Corded electric : Many of the fans on this list are battery-operated and thus can be used as a cordless model, but they also have a corded option. Corded electric options tend to offer more power than battery-operated options. However, since they need to be plugged in, you have less flexibility as to where you can place and use this type of fan.

Performance and Noise Level

Before purchasing a portable fan, you should check to see how many speed settings the fan offers—if it only has one, it will be hard to customize to suit your preferences.

We also recommend you check the fan's noise rating, especially if you're going to take this fan to work or another shared space. Our pick for the best quiet fan, the Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Hybrid Whisper Series Fan Kit, has a sound rating of 47 dBA, quieter than your average dishwasher.

Biermeier tells us that an overall well-performing fan is " easy to keep clean , stable enough not to have to keep an eye on, [and] can move as much air as necessary for the given job,” while also offering speed settings that are easy to control.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This story was written by Julia Fields , associate editor for The Spruce, who has extensive experience writing about home improvement products, especially ones that keep you cool, like fans and patio umbrellas. To select the best products possible for this roundup, she researched and thoroughly analyzed each product's specs.

Our experts:

• Deane Biermeier , a member of The Spruce Home Improvement Review Board

More from The Spruce

5 Of The Best Travel Fans For White Noise + Buying Tips

Below you’ll find 5 of the best travel fans for white noise on the market along with short reviews and pros & cons lists for each.

There are also some helpful things to know and consider before spending money or picking a fan. I’d love to help you get the best fan for your needs so read on to learn more.

How does white noise from a fan help?

Fan options to shop for, important foreign travel fan tips, ★ 5 of the best travel fans for white noise ★, summary – the top recommended travel fan for white noise, what is white noise.

White noise is the term used to describe a sound production that’s made up of all frequencies in the audio band (the range you can hear) at equal levels.

“White” is used to describe this particular type while others such as brown and pink exist and describe similar noise but with different acoustical levels in certain frequency ranges.

How white noise helps

White noise helps by “masking” bothersome noise and creating a more relaxed and distraction-free environment for. Sounds you otherwise would hear are “covered” (masked) by the sound your fan generates, resulting in it effectively eliminating it. As long as the outside sound is of an equal or lesser volume than the white noise it can be blocked.

Fans can improve your quality of life using the principle of sound masking.   This means that the noise it generates simple “covers”, or masks, the sounds that cause you problems and make sleeping or concentrating more difficult.

In reality, the fan isn’t actually removing outside sounds – but for all practical purposes, our brains think it’s gone.

This is because when many sounds are combined together well (especially with noise!) our brains can’t “hear” the distractions anymore.

The result is that as long as the bothersome outside sounds aren’t able to exceed the white noise level we no longer hear them.

Sleep like a baby!

It’s a well-known fact that infants and children are able to sleep more readily with gentle sounds. For example, dishwashers, washing machines, and other sources have a pretty steady and rhythmic “pattern” that affects our brains in a pleasant way.

The psycho-acoustical effect of a soothing noise causes a pleasing and focused state in both many people’s minds and bodies. The result is better sleep as well as better concentration.

It’s especially helpful to have a fan when you travel for many adults or children sleeping in a new environment can be tough. You’re not accustomed to your surroundings and haven’t had time to adapt.

New environments mean new nuances and small sounds you’re not used to which can hurt your quality of sleep. I speak from personal experience!

How fans make white noise

“White noise”, the soothing sound produced by many fans, is produced by a number of things that happen when a fan is running. It’s generally caused by the air turbulence created by the blades but often contains the sound of the fan motor, too. When a fan run runs, the air is drawn from the rear and forced out the front which causes noise.

Fans (especially traditional ones like box fans) are an easy-to-use and economical source of noise to cover sounds, reduce stress after a hard day, and promote better sleep.

The funny thing is that fans  aren’t intentionally designed to make noise!  It’s a wonderful side effect of how they work.

There are several factors involved that result in that soothing noise we love:

• Air passing by the surfaces of the fan’s body
• The rush of air on the input (suction) and output (forward) sides
• Fan blades spinning through and disturbing the air
• Turbulence caused by the nearby air being disturbed due to blowing
• The gentle humming and operation of the motor itself

These factors combine to produce the cumulative effect as a “white noise” our ears and then brain receive. The result is rhythmic, calming, and most of all helpful sound.

As I described, this white noise is used to “mask, or cover, and effectively eliminate bothersome sounds as far as our brains are concerned.

Because of how fan work, they often have a tendency to vibrate on a very small scale which also contributes to a gentle undertone you’ll enjoy. Both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC, like from USB power or batteries) have sound characteristics you’ll hear without realizing it.

For example:

• Power sources: Will an electrical outlet or USB power be available? Do you need cordless (battery) power?
• Fan speeds: Will a simple single-speed fan be ok or are more important to you?
• Folding/compact size: Is a slightly large fan ok or is space really tight?
• Warranty length
• Positioning or swivel features

Be sure to give these a thought when shopping. However, you can’t go wrong with the products I’ve researched, tested, and that I recommend below.

When traveling abroad it’s critical to be prepared for other power voltages and non-USA electrical outlets. A universal travel adapter set is something I’ve relied on many times. No products found. is a great example of one I recommend. Using a fan without an adapter could destroy it or even cause a fire! This particular model in an amazing 192 countries!

I’ve traveled overseas quite a few times. Without a doubt, one of the best investments I’ve ever made was a universal travel adapter set with outlet adapters and a voltage converter.

Many countries have electrical outlets with different connector jacks that won’t work with American power plugs. Additionally, some countries I’ve been to have 220V (not 120V) power which can destroy your fan, a phone charger, or any electrical devices.

They could potentially even cause a fire!

Be ready to power a fan or other small electrical devices. Do a little research before you go to be sure you can power your small electronics to avoid a tremendous amount of inconvenience.

I’ve learned the hard way that in many areas of the world it’s very difficult to find special power adapters for some of the devices you bring from back home.

Our top picks at a glance

Product reviews and details, 1. vornado fit personal circulator – quality cooling and gentle sound on the go.

The wonderful Vornado Fit Personal Air Circulator is nice take on the traditional small fan. If you’re unfamiliar with the company, Vornado manufactures some of the best air comfort products on the market.

It’s a well-made fan that takes up very little desk or table space as well. Two color options are available: Aqua or pink.

2 speeds are available for your comfort and white noise needs: low and fast. While it’s a quiet fan, it still provides a pleasing white noise sound you can use next to when you’re traveling.

It’s just a matter of selecting low, off, or high from the sturdy rocker switch on the side.

The Vornado Fit is a great little fan that’s well-made and perfect for putting in luggage. The base folds underneath when not in use for compact storage.

And speaking of travel, what would a small be without portability? The Fit folds up easily and is great in luggage. The design makes it easier to pack it in luggage when you’re ready to go.

It’s powered by standard 110 AC power so unfortunately there’s no battery option. However, one reason for this is that it’s more powerful than lesser fans and provides much greater airflow.

Measuring a small 8.3 x 7.5 x 5.2 inches in size, it’s definitely a travel fan that’s great for hotel rooms, resorts, and just about anywhere you need nice white sound and an outlet is available.

Vornado also offers a 3 year warranty which most others don’t.

• 2-speed fan control
• Compact but good airflow for cooling
• Small size (8.3 x 7.5 x 5.2″)
• 2 accent colors available
• Folds up for easy travel
• 3 year limited warranty
• Nice white noise sound, but not too loud
• No battery or USB power option
• Fan angle not adjustable like some competitors
• Costs a bit more than some others

Vornado’s fans are some of the best you’ll find anywhere and the Fit is a great fan that’s well-made and dependable.

2.  O2Cool 10″ folding fan – Great portable white noise with or without an outlet

As it can be powered by both an outlet or 6 “D” size batteries there’s nowhere you can’t use it!

It features 2 selectable speeds: low and high, with a nice gentle but helpful white noise level on high.

Measuring 12 x 3.5 x 12.4 inches in size, there’s a great 10″ fan providing compact but great cooling ability.

Thanks to the unique design the base serves as not just a stand but a battery holder, too. When folded for travel it’s very compact and easy to store.

It’s also energy-efficient and features a patented blade design to help extend battery life while keeping airflow maximized.

There’s also a small carry handle feature at the top as well. An AC adapter is included.

• 2 selectable speeds
• Battery power option
• AC adapter included
• Folds for compact size
• Nice 10″ size fan
• Good white noise and cooling
• Easy to use
• Traditional fan design for reliability
• No rechargeable battery option
• No USB power option
• One color only (gray)
• Basic, no additional side features
• Batteries not included

Want a great travel fan but don’t want to be stuck with a tiny  one like so many others are? It’s an excellent choice and I recommend it.

3. Opolar rechargeable portable fan – Feature-packed and a wonderful all-around choice!

Ready for one of the best travel fan values you can find? Then the No products found. may be  exactly what you’re looking for.

Measuring a tiny 5.9 by 4.9 inches, it’s ultra-compact and easy to fit into bags when it’s time to go. With the Opolar fan you’re ready for all sorts of environments even if outlet power isn’t available.

Be ready for anything!

Depending upon use, you’ll get several hours of comfortable cooling and soft white noise to get you through your rest. Expect about 3-11 hours of use depending on which of the fan speeds you choose (low, medium, or high).

Even more, you also get an optional internal accent light/night light as well as a side light that works like a small flashlight. They’re cool features that are unexpected in this price range.

2 built-in lights are provided and I really like them. LED lights are provided for optional use as an accent light/night light as well as a mini flashlight on the side of the base.

Electronic controls round out a  great little fan.

And most importantly, it produces a steady and soothing ambient white noise you’ll enjoy. It’s also one of the best rated in its price range!

• 3-11 hour battery power time
• Rechargeable battery included
• USB power option (cable included)
• Built-in flashlight
• Electronic controls
• 3 fan speeds
• Internal accent/night light
• AC adapter not included
• No swivel positioning for fan top
• No carrying case

I recommend it because it’s a great combination of cooling, features, and especially value.

4. SkyGenius rechargeable clip-on – It goes and provides white noise where others can’t

• Battery and USB powered (no outlet needed!)
• Rechargeable, and includes the battery
• Can be used on a table or clip on to  nearly anything

Sound impossible? It’s not. The SkyGenius battery powered clip-on mini fan is all of these things. It’s a fantastic choice for where other fans can’t go!

The SkyGenius fan includes a rechargeable battery and USB cable for powering the fan or charging the battery. What’s especially great about this model is how you can adjust it for airflow  perfectly where you need it. The swivel head is easy to use and works great.

One of my biggest reasons for recommending this little winner is how great the design is. The fan cage can be rotated to  any position you need for cooling or white noise use.

There’s also an adjustable fan speed control on the rear . That’s a very unique – and rare – feature for a fan that’s priced so low.

The SkyGenius works great both with its clip feature or standing on its base. Don’t forget you can power it directly from any USB port!

But you’re not limited to using it only with the clip – the base is designed to work on any tabletop or desk just like any other small fan. It measures a mere 7.5 x 6 x 4 inches in size, so it’s an excellent choice for travel.

For having white noise you can literally take anywhere, it’s a slam dunk.

• Battery or USB power
• Rechargeable battery and USB cables included
• Adjustable fan speed
• Clip-on feature works almost anywhere
• Desk stand base
• Swivel head w/ 360 degree rotation
• Simple controls
• Great price
• Good buyer reviews
• Some buyers prefer fixed speed controls
• No AC adapter included
• Black only (no white available)
• Can’t fold for storage

All-in-all, it’s one of the values in a travel fan for white noise anywhere. If you need the greatest in ease of use and portability, be sure to check it out.

5.  Honeywell HTF090B Turbo – Compact and convenient with 3 power options

I’m already a big Honeywell fan as I’ve tested many of their air quality products. They’re some of the best I’ve owned and tested. This cool little Turbo model is no different.

It’s a single-speed fan with simple operation that folds  very neatly out of the way. At 4.7 x 2.28 x 6.4 inches, it’s really small but can cool efficiently and create great white noise you’ll like.

Two great power options are available: USB power (using the included cable) or 4 AA batteries if you need cable-free power.

Thanks to the DC motor design it helps reduce energy waste and can be powered by the batteries more efficiently for extended battery length.

Not only that, but the base it folds into can also double as a carrying handle for your convenience.

• Battery powered (4 x AA)
• Super compact
• Smart folding design
• Simple on-off control
• Clear, helpful instructions
• High airflow despite small size
• Nice white noise production for its class
• Great price and build quality
• Excellent buyer reviews
• Single speed only
• No AC-USB power adapter included
• Cannot swivel fan horizontally

Undoubtedly, the Turbo on the Go fan is one of the most compact and easy-to-use travel fans you’ll find.

If you’re on a budget but want a well-made mini fan for traveling and still enjoying white noise, it’s an excellent choice.

I awarded the Vornado Fit my Editor’s Choice distinction. For those who need a solid performer for white noise you can take with you, it’s a great choice.

It was a tough call, but I’m happy to recommend the Vornado Fit folding portable fan to anyone with access to a standard outlet. You’ll get lovely white noise to help you relax or sleep with the added benefit of great build quality and ease of use.

About the author

Grant is a professional engineer by trade and has experience with both maintenance and do-it-yourself home projects. He enjoys sharing his expertise & ideas with others to help them improve their comfort and quality of life. Read more »

Your comments are welcome!

Which one was the loudest? Thank you!

Hi, the Vornado is one of the louder ones. Most were pretty similar, more or less, depending on their speed setting, etc.

However, another option, if you’ve got room in your luggage or bag, is a slightly larger one like an 8-inch portable fan like this one. They’re louder and still pretty affordable. Hope that helps!

Hi there, I was so happy to find this page. We are traveling to Europe this June from America and my hubby and kids are addicted to the sound of loud box fans, as well as the breeze they offer. I’m trying to figure out what on earth I can do that is small enough to travel with but that also makes as loud of a noise as possible. I do have some white noise machine makers, but they will still want a fan, so having a fan that is loud is the best solution. So funny companies pride themselves on making quiet fans when so many of us want LOUD fans for sleeping LOL! I found a video of the Vornado one and it makes an ok sound when on high, but I was hoping for louder. Grant, I love the 8″ portable Comfort Zone fan you linked to in the comments section. This is exactly what I’m looking for I believe. Only issue is that it is definitely a 120V and I need one that is 220V for Europe (specifically Amsterdam, Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, France and UK). I have heard it’s possible to buy a voltage converter but so many people say they cannot be counted upon to work, and often blow a circuit and that would be horrible cuz then we’re stuck with no fan at all. Don’t suppose anyone out there has any advice? Thanks in advance! -Katie

Hi Katie. I understand what you mean about fan noise & quiet fan noise. The good news is I can tell you from personal experience that a 220V to 110V travel converter with a real transformer will work fine, as I’ve used them myself.

It’s the other type (the ones that don’t produce a real sine wave like you find in your home’s electrical supply) that can cause issues. Here’s an example of the type I’m talking about that work well: ELC step down voltage converter.

Note that you may be be able to use a smaller version based on the wattage of whatever you’re planning to plug in requires. Here’s an example of a lower wattage model adapter.

Best regards!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

Travel Adapters vs. Voltage Converters: What You Need to Know About Electricity Overseas

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected] !

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

You’ve renewed your passport, bought your plane tickets, and researched your destination; now it’s time to prepare for the little details of traveling overseas. One is making sure you have the right equipment needed to use any electrical devices you’re bringing on your trip. That means making sure you have the right travel adapter and, if necessary, the right voltage converter.

All electrical sockets are not created equal; if you are going to use a device overseas, you need to know what type of voltage is used in the country you’re traveling to and what type of adapter is needed to plug your devices into the outlet. Otherwise, you may end up with an overheated curling iron (just imagine what this would do to your hair!) or a fried cell phone charger.

Travel Adapter vs. Converter: What’s the Difference?

Let’s start with the basics: What exactly is the difference between an adapter and a converter?

An electric converter changes the voltage of your electronic device. An outlet adapter changes the shape of your plug, not the electrical voltage, allowing you to plug appliances into wall outlets in countries with different-shaped plugs than your own. Consult this handy chart to see which outlet designs are used in different countries.

Which Devices Do I Need to Bring?

The first thing to consider is which devices you really need to pack on your trip. While your cell phone is a no-brainer, can you get by without a tablet or laptop? Most hotels offer hair dryers and irons so you don’t have to bring your own, and you can easily use manual razors and toothbrushes instead of their electric counterparts.

If you plan on staying in one country for a while, you might want to buy a hair dryer or electric razor there. Battery-operated appliances are another option if you’re willing to bring plenty of replacements.

Voltage Converters

Most American-made electrical appliances work at 110 volts. While Japan, most of North America, and parts of South America and the Caribbean use voltage between 100 and 125, the vast majority of the world uses 220 to 240 volts. For a complete list of voltage requirements by country, visit WorldStandards.eu .

Before you run out and buy a voltage converter, there’s a very important piece of information you need to know. The vast majority of modern travel gadets are dual-voltage, meaning they automatically convert to run on other voltage systems. Most smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets are dual-voltage, and if you use a converter on something that is already dual-voltage, you can damage your device.

How do you know if your device is dual-voltage? Check the label and/or owner’s manual: If it says something similar to “INPUT AC 120 VAC 60 Hz 200 W,” then your gadget is single-voltage and can only be used on 120 V. If you want to use it elsewhere, you’ll need a converter. If you see something like “INPUT AC 120/240 V 50—60 Hz 1300 W,” then your device is dual-voltage, and you can safely use it for voltages anywhere between 120 V and 240 V. If this is the case, you’ll only need a plug adapter (see below for more details).

Small electronics, razors, and non-heating appliances will need a 50-watt converter. Heating appliances such as dryers, irons, coffee makers, and other high-powered electrical devices need converters up to 2000 watts. You can also purchase combination converters for both types (many of which also come with adapter plugs). Check the label on your electrical appliance to find its wattage.

Note that many devices are now available in dual-voltage travel versions, such as this travel iron or this travel hair dryer .

Power converters are generally bulkier and heavier than adapters (which makes sense, as they are actually changing electricity). Remember that you will always need to use an adapter with a converter, but you won’t always need to use a converter with an adapter.

Since travel power converters take up so much space on their own, you’ll want to buy one that comes with a built-in plug adapter. The Travel Smart by Conair is a great multiuse item, as it converts electricity and has built-in adapters for numerous foreign countries. Plus, it has a built-in surge protector to keep your devices safe from electrical spikes. It can also be used as an adapter only, if you don’t want to buy another adapter for your dual-voltage appliances.

Travel Adapter Plugs

Even if two countries operate on the same voltage, their outlets might not take the same shape of plug—and that’s where an adapter comes in. An adapter will allow you only to plug your appliance into another type of outlet. Most are small and lightweight, making them easy to pack. If you’re packing lots of devices (like a camera, smartphone, and tablet), you should invest in multiple adapters so that you can charge all of your electronics at once.

If you travel a lot, invest in a universal travel adapter , which lets you slide out different plug formations so that you can use the adapter in outlets in any country. If you shop around, you can usually find one for less than $10 online ( this one also comes with a surge protector). Note that these won’t always work for appliances that need to be grounded, which will require a more expensive grounding adapter . If you prefer to travel as light as possible, get an international adapter set , which allows you to take only the adapters you need.

Where to Buy Travel Adapters And Converters

Be sure to buy your converter and adapter before you leave. In a foreign country, it can be hard to find one that is designed to convert your American plug/voltage into a foreign electricity/plug, rather than the other way around. Also, the converters and adapters found at airport shops are usually highly marked up, whereas you can get both for much cheaper online if you buy before you go.

Adapters and converters are available at most travel/luggage stores, pharmacies, electronics stores such as Best Buy , and even your neighborhood Target or Walmart . You can also buy them online from Amazon .

More from SmarterTravel:

• 7 Travel Electronics the Least Tech-Savvy Travelers Will Love
• The Essential International Packing List
• The 13 Best Portable Chargers for Travel

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Caroline Morse Teel, Sarah Schlichter, and Margaret Leahy contributed to this story.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Thailand: 9-Night Bangkok, Chiang Mai &...

Lumle Holidays

12-Night Europe Cruise From Barcelona to...

Norwegian Cruise Line

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

Are Dyson Fans Dual Voltage?

By: Author Chris Hewitt Reviewed in accordance with our Editorial Policy.

Posted on Last updated: March 24, 2023

Categories Bladeless Fans

Dyson fans have grown in popularity for their sleek futuristic design and engineering that allow them to cool you off without the need for conventional spinning blades. When it comes to electric-powered devices and appliances, they are separated into dual and single voltage. Where does a Dyson fan stand on this spectrum?

Dyson fans are not dual voltage. They will only work in the region they are sold in, so if you are traveling to a different country, you need to bring a voltage converter. However, the Dyson company advises against running their products on an unsupported voltage.

If you are curious about the ins and outs of dual vs. single voltage devices, we encourage you to read further. We will discuss the difference between a dual vs. single voltage device and what voltage other devices you have around the house are. 

Table of Contents

Is There a Specific Reason Dyson Fans Are Single Voltage? 

We first need to understand what the difference between single and dual voltage is. To simply put it, single voltage devices accept power from power outlets that output 110V – 120V or 220V – 240V . The former is the North American range of volts outputted by power outlets while the latter is the range outputted in other regions such as Europe.

Dual voltage devices accept power from European outlets outputting anywhere from 110v – 240v. This means that they can accept power from both North American and other power outlets hence the name dual voltage. 

Why Different Regions Use Different Power Outlets

The reason why North American power outlets are different from other regions comes down to different ideologies in construction , and some companies prefer to make devices region-specific in the way they can be powered. Dyson happens to be one of those companies. 

Most of your devices are probably dual voltage , such as your phone and laptop. You can check to see what voltage something supports by checking the label. This video explains how you can do this:

If you aren’t able to watch the video, you can usually see your device’s exact voltage on the appliance, following the word input.

What to Do if You Are Traveling

Suppose you are traveling from North America to a different country that uses a different voltage from your region’s outlets, and you want to bring your Dyson fan with you. In that case, a converter like the BESTEK Universal Travel Adapter will let you run it and any other device that otherwise wouldn’t be compatible.

We can’t fully advise that you do this. As previously stated , Dyson does not recommend running their fans on a converter due to concerns regarding the device’s performance and longevity. 

Depending on how long you visit a different region, you can buy an inexpensive fan to use until you get back. If you are moving permanently or staying for an extended period, consider selling your Dyson for a model that works for that region.

We understand that this is a frustrating scenario. However, we want to let you know so that there are no negative surprises later on, especially if you are a traveler who is considering buying one. 

Do Dyson Fans Consume Lots of Electricity?

Since we are discussing electricity, we want to cover how much it might cost you to run one of these fans. After all, you’ll probably want to be blowing these fans during the hot summer months all day and night. You’ll be happy to learn that Dyson fans are very energy efficient compared to most conventional fans. 

The Dyson AM06, for example, only uses 26 watts of power compared to a traditional table fan, which often uses as much as 50 watts. Over time the energy usage difference becomes quite staggering. If you were to run a conventional 50-watt table fan for an entire year without stopping, it would end up using 438 kWh compared to 227.76 kWh that the Dyson fan will produce. 

What does this mean for energy cost savings? To run our 50-watt conventional fan for an entire year nonstop, assuming a cost per kWh is the average of about 13 cents, it would cost you $57 a year.

In comparison, the Dyson would cost you $30 for a year of usage. These numbers may not seem like the biggest deal in the world, but incorporating a Dyson with other energy-efficient appliances can start adding up in your yearly cost savings . 

Speaking of pricing, you are probably wondering how much a Dyson will cost you upfront. 

Dyson fans are seen as a premium or luxury item by many. When any brand is seen as luxurious such as Mercedes, Rolex, or Apple, a higher than usual cost is brought with it. We mentioned the Dyson AM06 , which is one of the lowest cost fans in their lineup, but you’ll see a number that would be considered quite large for a fan by most people.

Higher-end products in their lineup include the AM07 (tower fan), AM09 (heater + cooling fan), AM10 , (humidifier), TP02 (air purifier), and the HP02 (hot and cold air purifier). They are great products indeed, but are they worth their asking price?

[amalinkspro_table id=”1479″ aff-id=”undefined” new-window=”on” nofollow=”on” addtocart=”off” /]

Are Dyson Fans Worth It?

Worth is highly subjective in this case. If you haven’t closed this article yet upon seeing Dyson fans’ prices for the first time, perhaps they can offer value to you in the form of their undeniable cool factor and features such as:

• Wi-fi enabled (some models)
• Convenient remote control 
• Efficient and beautiful design

You can get yourself a conventional fan for only $50 that works well, and Dyson buyers are very much aware of this. The appeal is largely due to the aesthetics, features, and branding behind it. There is no getting around that, but for some people, that is worth the expense. 

For an appliance that you’ll use practically every day, it certainly isn’t a bad purchase if you have the money for it! Dyson fans are known to last a very long time, so maybe that is something to consider if you are on the verge of trying to justify the price. 

How Do Dyson Fans Work?

We’ve been calling them fans throughout the article. However, Dyson themselves might slightly disagree with that because they prefer the term air multiplier, but that is essentially just another term for a bladeless fan .

A Dyson is not a fan in the traditional sense, but they have fans powering them despite being called bladeless. When you look at a Dyson fan, your eyes are immediately drawn to the top part where the air blows out, but what is allowing this in the first place is all in the device’s base. 

A fan powered by an electric motor pushes air through stationary blades where it travels to and out of the large hoop the fans are known for. It essentially sucks in air and pushes it back out hence the term air multiplier that the company likes to use. The whole process is relatively simple despite the fans appearing as though they run off black magic first. 

Dyson fans are highly desirable luxury fans that not only look amazing, but they are quite functional. They can come with convenient features while sipping on electricity rather than chugging it.

While having to bring a converter or not bring the fan at all with you when traveling might be an inconvenience due to the fans being single voltage, they are still a great addition to a home for 3 reasons:

• They can enhance the appearance of a room.
• They are safe for children and pets.
• You can leave them running without worrying about a sky-high electric bill.

If you decide to purchase a Dyson fan, we only hope you are happy with your decision. You can also check out their other products . They are quite well-known for their vacuums.

Chris is a Texas-based freelance writer who loves the outdoors and working in his garage. When he's not enjoying the Texas sun, he can be found tinkering with all sorts of things in his workshop.

Chris is a Texas-based freelance writer who loves the outdoors and working in his garage. When he’s not enjoying the Texas sun, he can be found tinkering with all sorts of things in his workshop.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site.