plug converter

Check the input label on your dryer and iron. If it is says input -- 120-240V. Then no, just a plug adapter. If it says only 120V, you will need a converter AND THAT converter must be rated at a wattage level higher than the wattage requirement of the iron or the dryer. Even with a converter the performance will be less and there is the possibility of long term damage.

If your hairdryer/curling iron don't say 220 v, then buy ones that do. The converter for a hairdryer will be as big as the hairdryer itself. ebay has plenty of 220 hairdryers. The reason this is a big deal is that hairdryers draw a HUGE amount of power. Equivalent to twenty sixty watt light bulbs, or a toaster oven.

Joette, To begin with, it's important to clarify the terminology. You will most certainly need a Plug Adapter for any appliances you'll be travelling with. The model for Italy has two round pins (check the Magellans website for a description of these). It's a good idea to pack at least two Plug Adapters. If you'll be in the U.K., a different style is used. You may or may not also require a Voltage Converter which "steps down" the European 220-volts to 115-volts, which is required for operation of appliances from North America. It's important to choose the CORRECT Voltage Converter for the application. For the devices you mentioned, a high wattage model will be required. IT'S IMPORTANT to check the nameplate labels on EACH appliance to determine the Input Voltage these are designed for. The least problematic and most cost effective solution is usually to just purchase dual-voltage Hair Dryers and Curling Irons. Again, check the Magellans website for details. One other point to note is that many Hotels in Europe now provide Hair Dryers, although they may be kept behind the desk so you'll have to ask for them. Happy travels!

Thanks everyone; appreciate your comments!