A lot of long-term male travelers just say ‘screw it’ and don’t shave their beards at all. It’s way easier if you’re on the road all the time. However, things don’t have to be like that. If you want to look good, just take an electric shaver with you, and you’re all set.
But not all electric razors are travel-friendly. that’s why in this article, we’ll:
- Compare the 8 best electric shavers for travel.
- Tell you what to look out for before getting one.
- Compare all the different types of electric razors, so you can choose which one is right for you.
Are Electric Razors Allowed on Planes?
According to the TSA, all types of electric razors are allowed on planes. People usually aren’t sure because most batteries on planes are highly restricted. However, regular disposable AA or AAA batteries (which some razors use) are allowed on planes without any restrictions, and only some lithium batteries are restricted. The types of lithium batteries that come with shavers are usually built-in and tiny, so they’re allowed both in checked luggage and hand luggage.
Step 1: Choose the Right Type of Electric Shaver
There are three main types of electric shavers. All have their advantages and disadvantages, so before you get an electric shaver for travel, you have to decide which type to get.
Electric Rotary Shavers
Rotary electric shavers usually have 2-4 blade heads, and each head has a rotating component inside. Each rotating component has a metallic cover with tiny holes meant for trapping your beard hair inside and cutting them. They’re better for people who don’t shave every day or have very thick hair, as they’ll easily cut longer hair. They work best when used in a circular motion. That said, rotary shavers won’t provide a particularly clean shave, they may cause some skin irritation, and they can’t be used for precise shaving styles (mustaches, goatee, chin strips, mutton chops, e.t.c.) because you won’t get a straight line with them.
Electric Foil Shavers
Foil shavers work similarly to rotary shavers, except the blades move quickly from side to side, instead of a circular motion. The ‘foil’ part refers to a small protective metal layer with holes on top of the blades, similar to what the rotary shavers have. They usually come with two to five blades, and the more blades you get, the cleaner shave you’ll get. Contrary to rotary razors, foil razors should be used in a straight line, not a circular motion. They result in a cleaner shave compared to rotary shavers and can make precise lines for mustaches. Foil shavers are better for people who shave every day because they work best with short beards and cause less skin irritation.
Electric Beard Trimmers (Clipper Shavers)
Beard trimmers, other called hair clippers, are similar to foil shavers, except they don’t have a protective metal layer on top. They usually come with one sharp blade that moves from side to side. They’ll work better for people who want an overall stubble because they don’t result in a clean shave. With different head attachments, you can regulate how long beard hair you want to keep. They’re also great for hair trimming. Compared to foil and rotary shavers, they cause the least skin irritation, because the blades don’t usually touch the skin at all.
Step 2: Which Shaver Is Better for Travel: Battery-Powered or Rechargeable?
If you’re getting an electric shaver for travel, you need to make sure that it isn’t bulky, and it’s easy to use abroad. The ease of use depends on how it’s powered, which is why we’ll look at all three types.
Battery-Powered (With AA or AAA Disposable Batteries)
Some electric shavers are powered by disposable batteries (most commonly by two AA batteries.) These are the easiest to use abroad because they don’t require any charging. Disposable AA and AAA batteries are allowed on planes, and you can get them in most convenience stores in any country. Two AA batteries will usually last for about one month of shaving if you’re shaving daily, so usually, having just two extra batteries will be enough for traveling. That said, battery-powered shavers are cheaper, less durable, and will result in slightly worse results. If you’re a guy who needs a super clean shave, we’d recommend getting a more expensive shaver with lithium-ion rechargeable batteries instead.
Rechargeable (With Lithium-Ion Batteries or Similar)
Most commonly, electric shavers come with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. This is the most popular type of razor and will provide the best possible results. Usually, they’ll work for about 30-60 minutes without requiring a recharge, which is enough for shorter trips.
That said, there are some things that you should watch out for before getting one for traveling. Make sure that it doesn’t come with a charging dock because these are too bulky/heavy to be used for traveling. Another important thing that you should check is that its dual voltage. Different countries may use different voltages, so make sure that it’s 110V-230V or 100V-240V because if you’d plug an American 110V razor in a European 220V socket, it would fry in seconds. And lastly, you have to make sure that the charger is compatible with the electric sockets in your destination country. Some countries use two flat prongs, and some use three round ones. It’s usually a smart idea to get one universal adapter that works worldwide for charging all of your electronics. The EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter is a really solid choice that works worldwide and is recommended by a large number of travel websites as the best travel adapter out there.
Read Next: What Is Smart Luggage? Are Smart Bags Banned? Here’s Everything You Need to Know
Plug-In Type Shavers (Without Batteries)
To be honest, plug-in type shavers without any batteries have become almost absolute. If you still manage to find one, they can be used for traveling, but you should make sure that it’s dual voltage and that you have the appropriate adapter for using it in your destination.
Step 3: Other Things to Look out for Before Purchasing an Electric Shaver
- Is it made by a reputable brand? If you want your shaver to last a long time, make sure that it’s made by a reputable brand, like Braun, Philips, Panasonic, Remington, or Wahl. Other Chinese brands will be more affordable, but they usually won’t last that long.
- Is it easy to clean and waterproof? Preferably get a waterproof shaver that can be washed under running water. If not, make sure that at least the head is removable and easy to clean.
- Does it come with a travel lock? Some shavers come with protective covers for the on/off button, which ensures that your shaver won’t turn on in your luggage. Waking up the next morning to a shaver with a dead battery isn’t the best thing that could happen on vacation.
- Does it come with a warranty? Unless you’re getting an affordable razor from a Chinese brand, make sure that your electric razor comes with at least a two-year warranty.
- Is a protective headcover included? Most electric razors come with a plastic cover for protecting the blades. Using one every day at home is silly, but they’re great when you’re traveling because they protect the blades from getting blunt.
- Is razor oil included? To keep the blades sharp, you should apply special oil to the blades every now and then. Some do it after each shave, but generally, it’s fine to do it once every two weeks if shaving every day. If your shaver doesn’t come with razor oil, you should get one and apply it just before you leave on your vacation. The Oster Premium razor oil is a cheap and solid option.
- How much do the replacement blades cost? Quite often the replacement blades cost 80% of the total electric razor cost. Try to find a razor that has cheap replacement blades, because you’ll have to replace them roughly every 12 months for the best results. Also, we wouldn’t recommend getting cheaper non-original replacement blades from Chinese manufacturers, because they’ll usually result in cuts, irritated skin, and they’ll become blunt much quicker. Get them from the original manufacturer instead.
Read Next: Will Shaving Cream & Other Aerosols Explode on a Plane?
Battery-Powered Travel Shavers (Regular AA or AAA batteries)
1. Best Overall: Philips Norelco PQ208/40 Portable Rotary Shaver
| Key Features: |
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| – Shaver type: Rotary |
| – Cordless / Powered by 2x AA batteries |
| – Affordable |
| – Editors rating: 4.2 |
| SHOP NOW |
The Philips Norelco PQ208 is the best choice if you’re looking for something that’s durable, tiny, and does the job just right.
This razor is powered by two AA batteries, which means that you won’t have to worry about dual voltage chargers and travel adapters. People who used it said that the two batteries would last just over a month’s worth of shaving. In case they drain during your trip, it’s best to pack two additional AA batteries just in case.
The Norelco PQ208 comes with two rotary heads that move around, which means that they’ll access all the weird angles as well. The blades are also self-sharpening, which means that they’ll stay sharp without any assistance. That said, Philips recommends replacing them every year with brand new Philips HQ56 replacement heads.
Philips is probably the most popular electric razor brand, which means that they’ll honor their 2-year warranty if anything goes wrong. Also, they have a 45-day return policy, which is nice. And what’s even better, this razor is extremely cheap – it’s the cheapest option on this list.
It’s also fairly easy to clean – although Philips hasn’t stated that you can clean the shaver under running water, most people said that they do it regularly without any issues. The heads are also easily removable, so you can access the inner parts and clean them. Also, it does come with a protective plastic cap for the heads, that protects the blades from getting blunt when packed inside.
Because it has only two rotating heads, instead of three or four, you won’t get too clean results with this shaver, but it will do the job just right. And for most, you really don’t need anything better on vacation.
2. Runner-Up: Braun M90 Portable Foil Shaver
| Key Features: |
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| – Shaver type: Foil & Trimmer |
| – Cordless / Powered by 2x AA batteries |
| – Affordable |
| – Editors rating: 4.1 |
| SHOP NOW |
The Braun M90 foil razor is another small and travel-friendly electric razor, similar to the Philips Norelco PQ208. The only difference is that this shaver isn’t a rotary but instead uses a foil shaver head in combination with a small beard trimmer.
Similar to the Philips Norelco, the Braun M90 also uses two AA batteries for power, which means that you won’t have to worry about charging it. People said that usually, the two batteries would last one or two months, depending on how frequently you’re using it.
Because this shaver uses a foil system, it will result in a slightly cleaner shave compared to the Philips Norelco. That said, it only comes with one blade head, which means that it still won’t provide as good results as regular lithium-powered rechargeable shavers. Although the blades aren’t self-sharpening, Braun states that you can wash them in running water after each shave. When they become blunt, you’ll have to get a Braun M90 replacement blade, which costs almost as much as a new shaver.
The silver rotating part on this shaver works as a handle when it’s rotated downwards, and as a protective cover when rotated over the blade. When it’s in a protective position, the shaver won’t accidentally turn on while packed inside your bag, which means that you can leave the batteries in. On one side, the Braun M90 also has a tiny beard trimmer, which means that you can get precise lines for maintaining your mustache.
The Braun M90 is a solid option for people who want a tiny, portable shaver for traveling, yet still, get somewhat clean shaves.
Cordless Rechargeable Travel Shavers (110V-220V)
3. Best Overall: Panasonic Arc5 Portable Foil Shaver
| Key Features: |
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| – Shaver type: Foil & Trimmer |
| – Cordless / Lithium rechargeable battery |
| – Expensive |
| – Editors rating: 4.6 |
| SHOP NOW |
If you’re looking for a shaver that provides the cleanest possible shave without taking up too much space, then the Panasonic Arc5 is a rock-solid choice. Although it’s really expensive, it will last a long time, and you’ll get stellar results.
The Arc5 comes with five moving foil heads, which means that the blades will easily access all parts of your face evenly, and you’ll get a super clean shave every time. On the back, you’ll also find a pop-up beard trimmer, which is nice for getting straight lines, and shaving off longer beard hairs first if you haven’t shaved for a while. The razor itself is waterproof, which means you can use it in the shower and rinse it off under running water. That said, the replacement razors cost pretty much, so keep that in mind.
It’s powered by a lithium-ion battery and charged with a simple wire charger that you just plug into a nearby socket. The Arc5 razor is dual voltage, which means that it’ll work everywhere, and one charge will last up to 40 minutes.
It’s a great option for traveling, as it’s fairly compact and the charger doesn’t take up too much space, but you do have to remember to bring appropriate travel adapters if you’re planning on charging it in other countries, where the electrical sockets might be different. It comes with a protective plastic cover for the blades, a travel pouch to store everything in, and the on/off button is lockable, which means that it’s got everything you’d need from a travel shaver.
4. Runner-Up: Philips Norelco 4500 Portable Rotary Shaver
| Key Features: |
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| – Shaver type: Rotary & Trimmer |
| – Cordless / Lithium rechargeable battery |
| – Priced moderately |
| – Editors rating: 4.4 |
| SHOP NOW |
The Philips Norelco 4500 is the best mid-class electric rotary razor that’s travel-friendly.
Because it has three moving rotary heads, it will work better for men who have thicker beards and don’t shave every day. The Norelco 4500 provides a smooth shave, but, of course, the results won’t be as smooth compared to foil shavers. It also comes with a smaller pop-up trimmer on the back, which is great for getting straight hairlines and grooming mustaches. The SH50 Replacement Heads don’t cost too much, but they aren’t cheap either, so keep that in mind. This shaver is also completely waterproof, which means that you can clean it by rinsing it in running water and use it in the shower.
This razor is powered by a lithium battery, which will work for about 50 minutes before it needs to be recharged. It’s charged with a regular cord, and it’s dual-voltage, which means that it will work everywhere in the world. That said, you have to remember to bring appropriate travel adapters for the electrical sockets.
The Philips Norelco 4500 will be great for travel because it’s compact, the charger doesn’t take up too much space, and it comes with a protective cap for keeping the blades sharp. However, one thing that it’s missing is a lock for the on/off button, which means that you’ll have to pack it safely inside your luggage to avoid it accidentally turning on.
Cordless Rechargeable Travel Shavers (Via USB)
5. Best Overall: Elezenioc Portable Foil Shaver
| Key Features: |
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| – Shaver type: Foil & Trimmer |
| – Cordless / Lithium rechargeable battery |
| – Affordable |
| – Editors rating: 4.3 |
| SHOP NOW |
The Elezenioc Portable foil shaver is very similar to the Panasonic Arc5, only costs a fraction of the cost.
This foil shaver results in a clean finish, which isn’t as good as on the Panasonic Arc5, but pretty close nevertheless. Instead of using five foil heads, this one uses only three. At the back, there’s also a pop-up trimmer for cutting longer beard hair and getting precise hairlines. Also, this shaver is waterproof, which means that you can use it in the shower and clean it under running water.
People are usually shocked to find out that replacement blades for Philips, Braun, and Panasonic shavers cost 30$-50$. Well, this shaver costs less than that, and the replacement blades for Elezenioc cost even cheaper, which makes the overall operating costs really low compared to shavers from well-known brands.
The Elezenioc foil shaver is really great for traveling, because it’s dual voltage, and runs for about 60 minutes on a single charge. You can also charge it through USB, so, really, you don’t even need to bring the charger with you if you’re bringing your laptop or a mobile charger. It also comes with a protective cover for the blades, a lock for the on/off button, and a travel pouch, which means that it will be easy to pack into a suitcase.
All in all, it’s a really solid choice for a travel shaver, especially when considering how cheap it is.
6. Runner-Up: Phisco Portable Rotary Shaver
| Key Features: |
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| – Shaver type: Rotary & Trimmer |
| – Cordless / Lithium rechargeable battery |
| – Priced moderately |
| – Editors rating: 4.3 |
| SHOP NOW |
Essentially, the Phisco travel shaver is very similar to the affordable Elezenioc shaver mentioned above, but with rotary-type blades instead of foil ones. This means that it will result in a slightly worse shave, but will be easier to use, better for people who don’t shave every day, and better for people with thick beards.
This rotary shaver has three moving heads with self-sharpening blades. You’ll have to replace them every 12 months, and the Phisco replacement heads are really affordable. This shaver has a pop-up trimmer on the back, which is great for getting a sharp hairline and maintaining mustaches. It’s also completely waterproof, so you can use it in the shower and clean it under running water.
The Phisco shaver is powered by a lithium battery which lasts for about 120 minutes on a single charge. It’s dual voltage, so you can charge it everywhere in the world. Also, it charges with a USB – MicroUSB charger, which means that you can charge it with your laptop or your mobile charger. This means that you don’t have to take an additional charger with you while traveling, which is nice for saving some space.
Although it doesn’t have a lock for the on/off button, it comes with a protective cap for the blades and comes in a small pouch, which makes it quite travel-friendly. Essentially, it’s almost identical to the Elezenioc Portable Foil Shaver, just rotary.
Travel Beard/Hair Trimmers (Clipper Shavers)
7. Best Overall: Remington HC4250 Portable Beard Trimmer
| Key Features: |
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| – Shaver type: Trimmer |
| – Cordless / Lithium rechargeable battery |
| – Priced moderately |
| – Editors rating: 4.3 |
| SHOP NOW |
This oddly-shaped beard trimmer is Remington’s (a well-known and popular electric shaver brand) idea of a small and portable travel trimmer. And we must say that it’s pretty neat.
This trimmer comes with nine adjustable heads that range from 1/16 inch to 5/8 inch cuts. You can also use it without an adjustable head, which results in a clean shave that’s great for creating a clean hairline. But the best part is that you can use this trimmer for your beard as well as your hair. Also, it’s worth noting that the Remmington HC4250 Replacement Blades are pretty affordable (you’ll need to replace them every 12-24 months.) The Remmington HC4250 is also completely waterproof, which means that you can use it in the shower and clean it under running water.
It’s powered by a lithium-ion battery, and one recharge lasts for about 40 minutes. That said, one really important detail is that this trimmer isn’t dual voltage. This means that it will work only in 110V countries, like the U.S., and if you plug it in elsewhere, you’ll fry it. It’ll still work for shorter one or two-week trips if you charge it fully before the flight, but for longer trips, you’ll need to bring a 110V-220V converter, which is pretty heavy/bulky.
Overall it’s a great trimmer, that’s perfect for shorter trips. If you’re often traveling for more than three weeks, we’d recommend getting another trimmer instead.
8. Runner-Up: Philips Norelco Multigroom 3000 Portable Beard Trimmer
| Key Features: |
|---|
| – Shaver type: Trimmer |
| – Cordless / Lithium rechargeable battery |
| – Affordable |
| – Editors rating: 4.1 |
| SHOP NOW |
The Philips Norelco Multigroom 3000 is a really versatile and affordable trimmer that’s great for traveling.
It comes with three attachments for trimming your hair, another three for trimming your beard, a wide steel trimmer for cutting clean lines and a short one for smaller details, an attachment for an even stubble, and an attachment for trimming your nose/ear hairs. This trimmer isn’t waterproof, which means that you can’t use it for wet shaving. Also, it’s worth noting that we didn’t find any official replacement blades, so you’ll have to get a new trimmer after the blades get blunt. But it’s not a huge dealbreaker, as the blades are self-sharpening, and the trimmer is really cheap anyway.
It’s powered by a lithium-ion battery which lasts for about 60 minutes on a single charge. It’s also dual-voltage, which means that you’ll be able to use it everywhere in the world. With the full kit, you also get a pouch for storing everything, a cleaning brush, and a regular charger.
Overall, the Philips Norelco Multigroom 300 is a really solid option for someone who doesn’t like a clean shave but likes to look fresh.
(5 votes, average: 4.80 out of 5)
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