electrical adapters & voltage converters

You want a voltage converter for any device which doesn't have a built-in step-down converter. Laptops, iPhones, iPads are examples of devices which will do their own voltage conversion and don't need a converter. They just need a plug adapter.

Other electric appliances, such as hair dryers, alarm clocks need both a converter and an adapter (though converters almost always include the plug adapter) because they can't do their own voltage conversion and the European circuit will overload the appliance and burn it out.

Others will probably be along shortly with more details.

Thanks, so much! The list of electronics which need which type of adapter/converter is very helpful. I appreciate your assistance. Happy travels!

See also http://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/phones-tech/electric-adapters-converters. The voltage range that any appliance accepts should be written on the device or the plug, but usually in very tiny print, such as only 110 (USA), only 220 (Europe), or a range of 110-220/240 volts.

Hi, Laura!
Thanks so much -- I've been reading so much stuff on so many topics that my head is spinning. Not sure how I missed this info from Rick Steves, but it's VERY helpful. I appreciate you taking the time to let me know about this. I wish you happy travels! Thank you!

All of your cameras, phone, laptops, ipads etc... only need adapters. Converters are only needed for anything that heats up like a hair dryer, curling iron or clothes iron. I don't actually carry converters at all. Any place I stayed provided everything.

Thank you so much for your help. I understand fully, and am happy I will not need a voltage converter at all! They are heavy and pricey. More to spend on wine and food! :)

You can probably leave the hair dryer at home. Can't remember a hotel that did not have one in the room or that could not be obtained from the front desk. Saves a lot of space and weight.

Dual voltage curling irons don't need an voltage converter, just a plug adapter

Many cheap blow-dry appliances can be switched to European power but will will only run at low volume. Electric curling irons are a more complicated matter.

I'm glad others came through with more information than I had about non-tech devices. It's been a long time since I've traveled with anything that plugs in that's not a phone or tablet. Even my digital camera has an external battery charger which I just use an adapter for.

marilyn,

As the others have mentioned, you'll likely only need inexpensive Plug Adaptors to connect your electrical gadgets in Europe. However, it's important to check EACH device to ensure it's capable of multi-voltage operation. Check the "nameplate" on each device, looking for the words "Input Voltage". If this states "100-240 VAC" then you'll only need Adaptors. I'd suggest packing a couple, as they're small and easily misplaced.

With Plug Adaptors, the two pin non-grounding style will work in all the countries you're visiting, but if you require a grounded connection for any of your appliances you may have to buy a few different types of Plug Adaptors.

One word of caution for future reference if you decide to look at the Voltage Convertor issue again. There are two principles used in voltage conversion, and it's important to match the correct type to each appliance. Use of the wrong type of convertor can have "unfortunate consequences" with some products.

Thank you so much for all the great information! You've lightened my load and my worries! Happy, safe travels to all of you!