electrical

You might want to double check; most modern electronics cover the range of voltage; check for something like '100-230 V' or something in that range.

herman, In order to determine whether you'll need a Voltage Converter, you'll first need to check the Input Voltage specifications of EACH device that you'll be travelling with. If these state "100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz", then you'll only need to pack Plug Adaptors. Note that if you're travelling in both the U.K. and continental Europe, you'll need two different types of Plug Adapators. I'd suggest packing at least two of each type, as they're easy to misplace. You should be able to buy Plug Adaptors at The Source or travel stores in your area. You can also order online from Magellans or other firms. I much prefer the cheap and simple $3 Adaptors rather than the expensive "one unit does all" models. If any of your products uses a grounded plug, these will work with the ungrounded Plug Adapters (but of course the ground won't be connected). I always prefer to use the ground if the product was designed for one. If you buy grounding type Plug Adaptors, those cover all situations. If you will require a Voltage Converter, it's important to mention that there are two different types of conversion, Transformer and Solid-State. It's important to match the correct type of conversion to each product. Low power electronic devices are best used with a Transformer-type convertor. It's almost certain that your iPad will be configured for operation in the voltage range that I mentioned above, so only a Plug Adaptor will be required. Happy travels!

didn't need a voltage converter for my (new this year)ipod or (3 yrs old)netbook or 'AA' battery recharger, can't speak for my hubby's shaver - he has a battery one for travel (takes 'AA')...I had been prepared in 2010 to buy a voltage converter, but the really honest guy at the electronics store told me I wouldn't need one...I had no clue...so he saved me like $30-40 for something I didn't need (but can't speak for the guy this year at the same store who told me I'd need one when we went in to buy more plug adaptors after not being able to find ours a day before leaving...he truly tried to talk us into one)...if taking a hair dryer, take a travel one and it should have a little thing you turn for the voltage converting...otherwise, you may need a converter for that...

Ken gave you the best advice. Nowadays you won't need converters (only adapters) for computers, mobile phones, Ipods, Ipads and other small electronics. You will likely need converters for heavy duty stuff like hair dryers (although some travel models use a wide voltage range) or pumps (to inflate a mattress for example). In this case I'd rather buy one that runs on batteries or just purchase it in Europe. Converters are heavy and expensive. They aren't worth the trouble of lugging around.

If you bring a short (6') extension cord you can plug in three devices with only a single adapter. Plus you don't have to constantly reach down behind beds/tables to plug stuff in!

"If you bring a short (6') extension cord you can plug in three devices with only a single adapter." One point to clarify is that you MUST NOT use a 115 VAC Power Bar which has built-in Surge or RFI suppression. Unpleasant effects will occur, possibly involving a display of sparks and smoke, and the Hotel owner will likely NOT be happy.

One slight complication... I'm assuming that your trip is to Italy, because you posted under the "To the Boot" section. Some older buildings in Italy use a unique 3 prong outlet that's a completely different configuration from the more standard continental socket (my wife and I rented a chalet in northern Italy last summer that only had these sorts of outlets). I wouldn't bother finding the proper adaptor ahead of time until you arrive at your lodgings and see what you need. We had no trouble finding them at a local supermarket.