still confused about voltage

If the charger has something like "100-250 VAC 50-60 Hz" imprinted on it, it's safe for just a plug adapter. Almost every electronic apparatus today accepts the full range of voltage. It's just cheaper for a company to make and stock one power supply than multiple ones for every voltage. See my web page.

If the specs on those devices say something like "AC Input 110v-240v" then they are capable of handling all voltages worldwide. So all you need is an adapter plug like the one you use for your curling iron. Most all electronic devices these days are "dual voltage" and can automatically handle different currents. It's rare to need a converter anymore.

Carole, As the others have mentioned, you need to check EACH DEVICE that you plan to pack along, looking for the words "Input Voltage". It will be listed on the Charger somewhere, possibly "hot stamped" in very small lettering. If this states "100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz", you'll only need Plug Adapters. However, if this states 115 VAC, 60Hz" then you will also need a Voltage Converter. One other important question is which Cell phone network are you with, and are you using a Smartphone such as an iPhone, Android or Blackberry??? Some U.S. Cellphones WILL NOT work in Europe as they use a technology which is not compatible with the GSM system used in Europe (and most of the rest of the world). Just to confirm, are you absolutely sure that your Hair Dryer and Curling Iron are designed for dual-voltage operation? The Hair Dryer may not be necessary, as many Hotels these days provide one. Cheers!

You probably have it reversed. It is more likely that the netbook and cellphone will work with an adapter but the hair dryer and curling iron might will need a converter. AND if they do, their performance will be reduced and this is a possibility of damage even with a converter. Even item has an input tag or stamp somewhere on the body what the input voltage requires are - it is the law - so find it and read it. Then decide what you need.

Carole, If the "numbers" on EACH Charger state "Input Voltage 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz", these will work just fine with only a Plug Adapter. The output voltage of the Chargers will be as designed for each product. In the case of USB devices (ie: Chargers to iPhone, iPod Touch, etc.) this is a nominal 5 VDC (the word "nominal" indicates that the voltage can vary slightly either above or below that value). It would help if you could provide further information on your "old dumb phone". For example, which network is it configured for, what brand and model is the phone, etc. It's difficult to provide any specific information without those details. Cheers!

Thank you for your replies which were specific and helpful. I found the necessary numbers on the chargers (and were they ever tiny!) I assume if the chargers are ok the actual devices are ok too. Still need to figure out the phone usage since I have an old ""dumb" phone. Thanks again

And why would you take an old dumb phone to Europe? It probably would be close to useless. I know I am missing something.

Actually, your old "Dumb" phone is probably preferred if it is a GSM phone and you have a plan with International roaming like ATT. Then you can either just pay the roaming charge (~$1.25 a minute) for limited calls, or look into getting a SIM card there. Search the boards, there are plenty of discussions on this. I would start though with talking to your cell phone company about your plan and if you can use your phone in Europe. If it is the wrong band, then just shut it off when you leave the US, and pick up a calling card there. As for Smart Phones, if you avoid data use, then it really is the same, otherwise you need to make some arrangement for data or may incur some hefty charges.