Adapters

First it is necessary for you to find out if the appliances you are bringing to Europe with you are dual-volt or single-volt. To do this, find the voltage rating on the appliance which will describe the voltage rating in either one or two numbers. If there are two numbers, listed such as 110V-220V, then it is dual-volt and you do not need a converter or transformer for this particular electronic device. If it is one number, like 110V, then it is single-volt, and you will need a voltage converter or transformer in order to operate this device in Europe. This is because Europe only uses 220V, while the United States, as well as many locations in Central and South America, uses 110V.

After you find out that you need a voltage converter for an appliance, you must then obtain another number called the wattage rating. This can usually be found listed directly on your appliance. But if you cannot find it, you can deduce the wattage rating of a particular appliance by multiplying its voltage by its amp. Then, purchase a converter that is preferably equipped with a 25% higher wattage rating. This will ensure a long life-span for your converter.

Be sure to also purchase plug adapters; all plugs in Europe are shaped differently from the ones in the United States.

Difference between Voltage Converter/Transformer and Plug Adapter

            So you are travelling abroad and keep hearing these terms jumping around like voltage converter, transformer, and plug adapter. Everyone tells you that you need them in order to use your electronics overseas. Sure they may know what they are talking about but you’re as confused as ever! But you do not need to embarrass yourself by asking your friends what those things are because everything you need to know is right here!

            First things first, why exactly do we need a plug adapter and voltage converter or transformer? Well, some countries such as the USA use 110V while other countries such as Germany, France, and Russia in Europe use 220V. Unless you have a dual voltage appliance, you will most likely need a voltage converter or transformer in order to change the voltage to suit your electronic device. To choose the right converter or transformer, just multiply the voltage by the watt rating of your device. It is recommended that you choose a converter or transformer with a 25% higher watt rating so that your device won’t get burnt out.

            Now for the plug adapter; you will always need one when travelling to somewhere like Russia or Romania because the outlets there are usually different from the ones in the US. Outlets from different countries can vary in shape, size, and even number of prongs! You will need to make sure that you find the right plug adapter to fit in those crazy outlets! You can simply research and look up pictures of what countries use or even buy all the different types of plug adapters so that you’ll be extra prepared for the future.

            As you can see, the voltage converter/transformer and plug adapter are completely different in what they function as. However, it is very important for one to understand these terms when traveling overseas. Good luck on your journey!

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