Converter vs Adapter for Europe

Look at the specs for each item. If it says "AC Input 110v-240v", you just need a plug adapter. The iron and dryer may also have a small 120v/220v switch, if so again you just need the adapter. The adapter can purchased at this website at the "travel store" tab.

Just to expand a little bit on Michael's comments, seriously consider not taking a hair dryer. Hair dryers are always available even in B&Bs. Second, any high wattage appliance that is not 120/220 compatible will required a MATCHING transformer (converter) which can be expensive and heavy. And mostly likely will not perform very well and may be damaged. It would be smarter to buy a curling iron in Europe.

scott,

Have a look at the last post at www.ricksteves.com/graffiti/helpline/index.cfm/rurl/topic/17201/ for information. You could also look at appropriate section in the FAQ's on the Helpline.

A brief summary.....

You'll certainly need Plug Adapters to connect North American appliances to European outlets. The Euro style uses two round pins, while the U.K. style has three large rectangular pins. It's a good idea to take at least two of each type for each area that you'll be travelling.

You may or may not need a Voltage Converter for the electronic devices (Camera, Cell phone). Check the "Input Voltage" rating listed on the nameplates of the Chargers for these two items. If this states "100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz", it will work just fine with only a Plug Adapter. Have a look at these two devices and let us know.

One question regarding your Cell phone - if it's not a quad-band GSM Phone, it WON'T work in Europe. Which Cell network are you with?

The high wattage appliances (Hair Dryer, Curling Iron) will most probably need a Voltage Converter. You might want to buy dual-voltage travel Dryers and Curling Irons instead? Check magellans.com for some ideas on products of this type. A solid-state Voltage Converter (as opposed to a Transformer model) is the most appropriate type to use for high wattage appliances. The Magellan's website I mentioned above has an auto-sensing style of Voltage Converter that includes both conversion methods.

One point to make about using Voltage Converters is that most are not designed for "continuous duty operation", so it's best to disconnect them when not in use. Also, I don't leave them connected when I'm out of the room.

Hope this helps.

I have a web page on the subject of electricity in Europe.

The camera and cell phone SHOULD have a dual voltage power supply. The curling iron and hair dryer probably won't and will need a converter. That's just something more (along with them) to carry around; learn to do without (how long did the human race exist without them?).

Great website Lee!