Reliable electric converter

Are you sure you even need a converter? Check the specs, on your devices if it says something like "AC input 110v-240v" no converter is needed, all you need is the plug adapters. It's rare these days to need converters as most electronics are designed to handle all voltages. Perhaps this is why you had problems in the past??

Thanks for the quick info, will check specs, mybe that was problem. hate taking chances but dont know what else to do. thanks micheal

Russ,

To begin with, as mentioned in the previous post you need to check EACH device you'll be travelling with to determine the Input Voltage specifications. If these state "100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz" then all you will need are inexpensive Plug Adapters.

I'm not surprised to hear of the problems you experienced with "converters" in the past. The most likely explanation for your Battery Charger "burning up" is that this was probably a solid-state Charger which was connected to a solid-state Voltage Converter. It's not advisable to use electronic products with s-s Converters as the two technologies are not always compatible (as you found out). If you require a Voltage Converter for a solid-state product such as a Battery Charger, a Transformer type is the best one to use.

I don't have enough information to speculate on why your Wife's Hair Dryer burned up? Hair Dryers are a fairly simple electrical device (resistive heating element and a fan) and they're not usually too prone to problems even if the power source is not the best.

If you decide that you WILL need a Voltage Converter for future travels, you might have a look at This Product from Magellan's. It consists of a 50-watt Transformer plus a 2000-watt solid-state Converter, and the selection between modes is automatic (no switches to set). Magellans is in the Santa Barbara area I believe, so delivery to you should be fairly fast.

One thing to note is that although that Converter is equipped with a Euro Plug assembly, you might want to buy at least one additional Plug Adapter for each area you'll be visiting in case you find recessed outlets (which I've found are quite common).

Happy travels!

Hi Russ,

I would recommend the Eagle Creek Converter. You can find them at any Outdoor Recreation store. I got mine at REI. I've taken it to multiple countries and never had a problem. It's a little more expensive but to me it's worth it. I used it with my camera charger and it was fine.

Have a great trip!

thanks to ken and marla,your info is greatly appreciated. i just started useing this site and am very impressed with the people and the information provided. thanks again. RUSS