Email Page

If you are going to use consumer electronics or any mobile gadget accessories in another country, or perhaps just taking that iPhone or iPod on a RoadTrip, you need to know what type of electrical voltage is used in the country you're traveling to and the type(s) of plugs and outlets used there.

If the voltage is the same, all you may need is a plug adaptor. Otherwise, power converters are available to change line voltage from one amount to another. However, there are different types of converters for different types of appliances. Small mobile electronics, razors and non-heating appliances can operate with a 50-watt converter. Heating appliances such as hair dryers, irons, coffee makers and other high-power electrical appliances need a 1600-watt converter. You can also purchase combination converters for both types. Check the label on your electrical appliance to find its wattage. Click here to get your universal power adaptor and AC to USB power adaptor for your travel gadgets. These generally work for those from the US traveling to destinations that use higher voltages to "step down" from Alternating Current (AC) 230V to AC 120V.

On the other hand, those who travel from a good portion of the world to the US will likely need a transformer to convert the lower line voltage into the higher voltage required by their appliances. Many of these devices (of higher quality and thus higher-priced) also function as step-down converters.

And because the quality and stability of electrical power might be an issue, a universal surge suppressor might be a good buy, especially one that includes plug adaptors that will work in most of the world.

In addition to voltage, the frequency at which the power is generated may also differ, usually from 50 Hz to 60 Hz. While it is possible to convert voltage, it is not possible to convert frequency, though many devices today are already built to handle these differences.

Given the complexities of safely using your electrical appliances overseas, you may want to consider some alternatives. If you plan on staying in one country for awhile, you might want to buy a hair dryer or electric razor after you get there. Battery operated appliances are another option if you don't mind replacing the batteries.

Fortunately, many laptop computers, camcorders, and CD/DVD players today come with power supplies that can be used in almost any part of the world. Check the manufacturer's label to see what type of input it can handle. This also applies to many digital cameras, VCRs, video games and other electronic accessories as well.

Those designed for use just about anywhere will have a section on the label that reads like this,"INPUT: AC 100V-240V~1.0A 50/60 Hz"

This shows that the device was designed to be used over a wide range of voltage levels and at different electrical frequencies. In this particular example, the device can accept “nominal” voltage anywhere from 100 volts to 240 volts and can operate on either a 50 Hz or 60 Hz system. It is designed for alternating current (AC). (Like most appliances, it should not be used on a direct current, or DC system -- DC electrical systems are not common, but some may still exist.) If your device has a label with these parameters, it can be used pretty much anywhere. In that case, all you need is a plug adaptor.

If you must take your electrical appliances with you abroad frequently, your best bet is to buy travel-size dual-voltage appliances that can run on both 110 and 220-volt currents. Make sure the switch is on the proper voltage for the country you are in before using the appliance. You will also need to carry adaptor plugs with you to fit the outlets in the countries you're visiting.

No matter where in the world you're headed, at WhateverJourney.com we've got the resource to save you time and headache!

Click Here for plug adaptors and voltage converters needed for your hair dryer, ipod charger, computer, electric shavers and cell phone chargers to operate in a foreign country.