Converters/adapters for UK

Yes it depends on the device. I only needed a converter for my MacBook Pro and Digital SLR battery charger. If I had taken my hair dryer that is dual voltage, I would have needed a converter. You will always need an adapter, but you won't always need the converter. I take both. Pam

Cindy,

You need to look at EACH device you'll be travelling with to determine the Input Voltage. There will be a label either on the device or the Charger that specifies this.

If the label indicates "Input Voltage 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz", then you'll just need an inexpensive Plug Adaper. The Plug Adapter for the U.K. has three large rectangular Pins - check www.magellans.com for photos and further information. I'd suggest taking at least TWO Plug Adapters on your trip. If you'll be travelling on the continent at all, the Euro-style Plug Adapter will be required (two round pins).

If the label indicates "Input Voltage 115 VAC, 60 Hz" then you'll also need a Voltage Converter which will "step down" the 220 VAC used in Europe to 115 VAC used by appliances here.

If you could provide more specific information on which devices you'll be travelling with and the specifications for these, I could provide more specific advice.

Happy travels!

Basically to put it in simple terms - the adaptor plug allows you to physically plug the item into the UK outlets, and the converter changes the energy output if the item doesnt have a switch on it i.e. blow dryer, etc.

Keep in mind that if it is a hair styling tool, that you can only use it on the lowest setting (which is why I bought a cheap UK blowdryer from Boots and am taking it on my 3rd trip), and there are going to be no outlets in the bathroom, so you need to bring a mirror!

One more thing - some outlets in the UK have a switch so you have to actually turn on the outlet, so if it doesnt work when you turn the item on, look for a switch on or near the outlet itself.

Years ago I bought a voltage converter at Radio Shack. It always goes with me and it's all I've ever needed for charging my camera battery and now for my iPod. Most hotels and B&B's provide hair dryers but mine also purchased in the UK.

I read somewhere that some US devices and hair appliances can be ruined while in the UK/Ireland even if you use the converter/adapter. Is that the case if you take care to read the voltage and wattage on the particular device. I am concerned in particular about charging a laptop, a digital SLR camera, A GPS, a cell phone, an ipod, and a Nintendo DS. Is this true? Can they be damaged even if you use a converter as needed?

What about rental cars-can you use car chargers safely with US devices?

Has anyone ever used the battery powered chargers with the changeable tips? Maybe a couple hundred AA batteries in that kind of back up charger is a better idea for the electrical safety of our items.

Kim,

It's very possible that at least some of the electronic devices you mentioned are provided with Chargers designed for "world operation", and if that's the case all you'll need are inexpensive Plug Adapters.

You need to check the "nameplate data" of each device, and look for the Input Voltage ratings. If these state "100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz", they'll work just fine in England or Europe with just a Plug Adapter.

If some of your electronic devices are only designed for 115 VAC and you need a Voltage Converter, it's very important to use a Transformer model rather than a solid-state type. Most of the travel Transformer models are rated for 50 watts, which is more than adequate for electronics.

A few options you could consider. If it turns out that you need a Voltage Converter, you might have a look at This Model from Magellans.

You might also have a look at This Product which is capable of charging multiple devices simultaneously and is designed for "world" operation (Plug Adapters required though).

If you just need an IPod Charger, have a look at This Product. I've used one for the past few trips, and it's worked well.

One other important question is which Cell network are you with, and which model phone are you using? Unless you use AT&T or T-Mobile, it's highly likely that your Phone WON'T work in Europe at all. If you are with either of the above networks, you also MUST ensure that your Phone is a quad-band model.

What type of dSLR are you using? Most Canon models are provided with "world" Chargers. If it's another brand, you'll have to check the ratings on the Charger.

Good luck and happy travels!