Q. I want to take my electrical devices to Europe but I know they use a different electrical system. How can I be sure I will not destroy my expensive electronics?

A. American devices use 110 volts but European devices use 220 volts. You will destroy your American electronic device if it is design for 110 volts only and you plug it into a European electrical outlet using an adaptor plug. The good news is that most new electronic devices (cell phones, i-pods, lap top computers, i-pads, etc.) have built in voltage converters that work in both the US & Europe. Look for range of voltages printed on the item or plug (such as 100~240v). The print is very small so you may need a magnifying glass to be sure your device is safe. If your device is 110v only, we recommend you do not bring it. It is true that you can use a converter to change the electric current from 110v to 220v, but they are bulky, get really hot & can work with only one device at a time. Regardless of the voltage rating of your device, it will not work without an adapter. With the proper adapter, your American style plug will fit into the round European style electronic receptacles. On the Continent, you will use an adapter with two round prongs. In Britain & Ireland, you will need an adapter with three big rectangular prongs.  The photo above shows you what the adapters look like.

Q. What electronic devices should I take?

A. This is a question about personal preferences & practicality--no one answer fits all. We have carried laptops, net-book computers, cell phones, i-pads, MP3 players, digital cameras, USB flash drives, noise canceling headphones, hair dryers-most every portable device you can imagine. Some are worthwhile; others not so good. For me, my i-phone & charger cords, my Bose noise canceling headphones, & my Richard Solo smart backup battery for my i-phone are all I need. Anne usually brings the 3 above items plus an i-Pad &/or net book computer & our digital camera. We both also bring iPods. Here is a way to evaluate what to bring. How often will you use the device? (my iPhone & iPod & my headphones let me listen to hours of music while moving from one place to another-helps make long flights & train trips tolerable). How connected to friends & family do you want to be? (this may dictate phone &/or computer or tablet device). Do you need to be able to work while on the trip? (this means a laptop or netbook or tablet device). What mode of transportation are you using? (a cruise means you can bring more of your cool stuff, while trains & other public transportation may want to limit what you take) How much are you willing to pay to stay connected? (this is a separate & complex issue but it must be considered-you will need a cost effective plan that meets your needs).

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