Travel Converter / Adapter - Recommendations for Cambodia
 

I've been doing a lot of research and *think* I have a pretty good understanding of what I need, depending on what appliances / electronics I bring with me. For example, I know that my ipad and iphone will only (at most) need a travel adapter. But, if I bring my hair dryer and straightener (I'm still undecided but would definitely take them if I had the proper converter/adapter to use them), I will need a converter because they are 120 volt appliances.

A lot of the reviews I am finding online for adapters and converters are not so great... So...I'm wondering if anyone has one they love that I can buy here in Canada? I will spend up to $50 for an all-in-one multi converter/adapter if it is proven to work well....

Thanks for any recommendations you can provide!!!

Using converters for hair appliances doesn't work very well. Every place you stay will furnish a hair dryer. In terms of the straightener, you would be better off buying one Cambodia to use while you are there. And it will certainly cost under $50.

Thanks for your response, Kathie. I think that sounds like a very solid plan. That will save me travelling with my somewhat heavy dryer and straightener. I think I will still need some kind of adapter to charge my ipad/iphone? Any recommendation?

Yes, you will need an adaptor. But many hotels furnish them. We own a couple of "Universal Adaptors" we bought from Amazon.

Almost all hotels use the universal plugs nowadays. I haven't carried adaptors for years, but have always been able to charge my electronics.

I do carry a ten foot long charging cable for my phone and iPad though. Sometimes the outlets are far from the spot where I want to use and recharge simultaneously, and a charger cable weighs a lot less than an extension cord. I've had good luck with the Amazon Basics brand ($10 or so).

Depending on where you're going, it's possible to run into hotels that don't furnish dryers and converters. The multi-type converter would be useful, as there could be a mix of Euro and US plugs. If you bring a appliance, make sure the input voltage range includes 240v. This is more common in devices that have a transformer in the cord.

Hair dryers and straighteners are pretty bulky, even if you can find a good converter. Why not email your hotels and see if they will provide a dryer for you? Sometimes they hide them in drawers, or you have to ask for them at the front desk.

Regarding adapters, get a "Conair Travel Smart All-In-One Adapter With USB." The advantage is that you can charge you camera, tablet, and phone all together from one plug. That way, you don't have to move furniture to find plugs, or charge your electronics sequentially. I keep it in my carry on bag, so I can charge my phone and tablet at the airport, if necessary.

Thanks everyone! The Conair all-in-one sounds great - I will look for that! I've pretty much decided to leave my hair dryer and straightener home. Ponytails will be my thing... :)