How to Buy Power Adaptors for Travel

Power adapters come under many names, among them voltage adapters, ac/dc power adapters, travel adapter plugs, 110v 220v voltage adapters, 220v 110v voltage electrical converters and universal voltage adapters. They enable travelers to use their electric shavers, hair dryers and other small appliances in other countries. Here's what you should know before purchasing a model.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Look for power adapters online or in stores like Best Buy. A typical relatively inexpensive kit includes the adapter plug with a converter that converts 220/240 foreign electric voltage to U.S. voltage, 110/120v. A 1600 watt converter allows you to use your travel iron, hair dryer, coffee maker and even an electric blanket while you travel.
2. Check that the kit you buy meets your specific travel needs, especially if you are traveling with an infant. A 50/1600 watts worldwide travel kit is for domestic appliances with a rating of 50 watts – 1600 watts. You should use 50 watts for radios, answering machines, tape recorders and calculators. 1600 watts takes care of devices that produce heat, including irons, hair curlers, heating pads and warmers for food and baby bottles.
3. Buy adapter plugs for foreign outlets. Adapter kits generally come with plugs that are suitable for most regions including the U.K, Europe, the Caribbean, Hong King, the Middle East, South America, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. Some high-end power adapters come with built in plugs.
4. Bring along a Step Up/Step Down converter if you are going to be working during your travels. A typical 230 watt Step Up/Step Down converter changes 110 up to to 220V or converts 220 down to 110V. It features an on-off switch and an LED indicator light. You can use it for fax machines.
5. Look for Step Down grounded transformer offering a maximum capacity of 150 watts, converting 220/240V down to 110/120V and an on/off switch. Use it for your laptop computer in Europe and Asia.