I have seen two different adapters for Italy -- the Std. European (non-grounded), which I already own, and another 3-pronged grounded one. Any idea how I can tell when I might need the 3-pronged one? Don't want to buy if I don't have to. Thx!
You only need the 2 pronged one. It is similar to the U.S. We have 3 pronged plugs and 2 pronged plugs. The 2 pronged plugs work in all outlets.
I typically bring a 3 to 2 prong adapter (US) in case I need to convert any of my 3 pronged plugs to interface with my European adapters (mine only have the 2 prongs). They are about $1 in any hardware store.
Thanks for all the info everyone!
FYI - Make sure you don't buy one of those HUGE universal adapter things they sell for about $40 (Radio Shack, etc.)! Some people with us took it, and it doesn't work in most outlets!! Most Euro outlets are round & the 2 holes are deep in there. With the big adapter, it was too big (wouldn't fit in the circular part) & wouldn't go deep enough to enter the 2 holes.
I used Rick's 2 prong adapters & never had any trouble with them not fitting all over western Europe, including Italy.
This site lists all the plugs around the world along with pictures:
http://kropla.com/electric2.htm
Scroll down on this site for the countries: