Travel Plug Adapter

Alexandra,

If ChargePod has the necessary Plugs to fit each of your electronic devices, that's an excellent option for travel.

Regarding your primary question, all you'll need to connect the ChargePod or other devices is a simple Plug Adapter. For travel in Germany, you'll need a Euro Plug Adapter (two round pins). If you'll be travelling in the U.K., a different model is required. I'd suggest packing along at least two Plug Adapters (always good to have a backup).

You can purchase Plug Adapters at Radio Shack, Travel & Luggage Stores, Magellans or at the Travel Store on this website (click the link at the top). Basic Plug Adapters only cost a few dollars.

One caution to mention - if you decide to travel with a Monster Power Bar, it's extremely important that you check EACH device you connect to this, to ensure that it's designed for operation on 220-volt electrical systems. Look for the Input Voltage ratings, which will always be listed on a "nameplate" on the Charger or somewhere on each device. If this states "Input Voltage 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz", the product will work fine in Europe with just a Plug Adapter.

One final point to mention - some devices aren't designed for "continuous duty operation", so it's a good idea to disconnect Chargers and other devices when they're not being used.

Good luck and happy travels!

Wait, I'm a little confused. If I bring a power strip to charge my multiple items, wouldn't I only need a converter to plug the power strip into the wall?

A converter changes the power supply. An adaptor changes the plug. If you power strip is dual voltage, you only need an adaptor. If it's not, you'll need a converter.

Corey,

Let's clarify the terminology.....

A Converter usually refers to a Voltage Converter which reduces or "steps down" the 220-volts used in European electrical systems to 115-volts for use with North American appliances. There are two methods commonly used for voltage conversion - Transformer or solid-state. It's important to use Transformer converters with electronic devices and solid-state Converters with high wattage appliances such as Hair Dryers.

An Adapter usually refers to a Plug Adapter which is a simple mechanical device that adapts the North American-style plug to fit European outlets (several different styles).

If you're planning to use a Power Bar, pay careful attention to the cautions I mentioned in my fourth paragraph above.

"If I bring a power strip to charge my multiple items, wouldn't I only need a converter to plug the power strip into the wall?"

BE VERY CAREFUL WITH THAT! Connecting a Power Bar to a Voltage Converter and then connecting multiple devices could potentially have very unpleasant consequences! You could easily exceed the capacity of the Voltage Converter and if the internal Fuse "opens", these are usually non-replaceable by the user (some newer devices have an "electronic fuse" which helps). With a fused unit, that means you've lost your Voltage Converter for the duration of your trip. The worst-case scenario involves sparks and smoke!!! Using this method means the user has to calculate the total wattage of all devices connected to the Power Bar and being supplied by the Voltage Converter. I doubt most consumers would be too careful with that.

Hope this has answered your questions.

Happy travels!