Best voltage converter

We need more information. First of all, what devices do you plan to take? If only something like an iPad or other electronic gadget, you probably only need a socket adaptor. Most modern electronics manufacturers equip their products to operate over a range of voltages. And if you only need a socket adaptor, which countries will you visit? The "best voltage converters", like the sort I use at home for my US-bought TV, desktop computer and some kitchen appliances, are impractical for a casual traveler because they weigh anywhere from 2 to 10 kgs. Much too heavy and bulky for a traveler. The reviews I see for portable devices used for high-wattage items like hair-driers, curling irons and battery chargers seem to be almost universally negative. The general consensus on this website seems to be that if the device you need to use is not dual-voltage configured, you'd be better off buying a substitute in Europe.

Elizabeth, I most definitely agree with Tom. More information is needed on what type of Voltage Converter you're referring to. What kind of electrical devices are you planning to travel with? You may only need inexpensive Plug Adaptors rather than a Voltage Converter. If you DO in fact need a Voltage Converter, it's important to note that two different conversion methods are used, and it's essential to choose the correct type. Also, which countries will you be travelling to? Cheers!

Thanks for replying...I'll clarify.:) We are going first to England and then onto France. We'll be taking an iPad/iPhone charger as well as a curling iron. Hope that helps!

OK, the Apple stuff is easy. But first - this curling Iron. Has it ever been to Europe? Have a look at the specification plate on it. What does it say about voltage? Does it say 115 vAC? Or does it say 100-240 v 50-60 Hz? Big difference.

For the Apple stuff, all you'll need is a cheap outlet adaptor. France and Britain use a different plug configuration, though, so you'll need a different adaptor for each country (or a fancier adaptor that fits both countries' outlets). Need more information on the curling iron, but my guess is that you would probably be better served buying one in Europe.

Elizabeth, As Tom mentioned, the Apple products are designed for multi-voltage operation, so you'll only need two different styles of Plug Adaptors, one for the U.K. and one for the continent. The U.K. style has large rectangular pins while the European model has two round pins. Check magellans.com for information and photos of each type. One other point to note is that outlets in the U.K. are often controlled by a switch, which is usually located right at the outlet. Be sure to check for that. Regarding the Curling Iron, which model are you using? Some manufacturers recommend NOT to use their hair care products with Voltage Converters. If you prefer to travel with that, Magellans also has a good selection of Voltage Converters. The Combination Converter should work, but you'll probably find that the unit doesn't perform as well as at home. Therefore, you might consider either buying a 220 VAC model when you arrive in Europe OR buy a dual-voltage Curling Iron (Magellans also sells those). Cheers!