We have a travelsmith for regular stuff, but it says not to use with electronics and we confirmed that the hard way ... What brand to take for Mac Powerbook, IPods, Cellphones? Thank you!

Many (not all) electronic devices can operate automatically off of power from dual voltages - either 110 volts/60hz (US/Canada) or 220 volts/50hz (Europe). If there is a power adapter with the device - like for your Mac or Ipod - look at the INPUT electrical specifications. My laptop's power adapter for example says the INPUT is rated from 100-240v and 50-60hz. So it will work fine in the US or Europe.

All you need for such devices is a cheap $3 prong adapter to be able to plug it into the socket in Europe. Buy one specific to Italy if you are traveling there; I have a couple of them I take when me when I travel, since all of my devices are rated for dual voltages, these are all I need, no special converter device. (I also bring a little mini-power strip - US plugs - so I can share power from one adapter to several devices that need power or charging.)

In case you do not know, there is a big difference between an adapter (which just changes the shape of the plug) and a converter, which actually changes the voltage of the electricity. From the sound of your question you are talking about a converter, not an adapter.

I bought an $8.00 adaptor/converter that has all the plug-ins for anywhere in the world. It also had a built-in surge protector which I wanted for my laptop.

http://www.amazon.com/Travel-Smart-A.../dp/B0010BLSAY

sheri - That's an adapter, not a converter.

You Mac and cellphone should be dual voltage and just need a plug adapter, not a converter. I think some of the very early IPods (2003?) were not dual voltage, but if you are charging it through your computer, it's not a problem.

I suggest you read http://tinyurl.com/2y9zvv.

Sheri_lp,

It doesn't change voltage so it IS a plug adapter with a surge protector. I'd leave it at home or return it though. Why? Because French sockets are often recessed and a big thing like that will not be able to plug in. Ask me how I know. ;^(

Get the little plug adapters. If need be you can add one onto your device to elongate the prongs and make it work if you are concerned about surges.

Rob

It looks like sheri_lp's plug adapter has an extended two prong plug so it plugs into just about any outlet in Europe. So if her laptop is good for 110-240 volts and 50-60 Hz she is good to go. Never use a *converter* with any electronic device.

oh I thought it was a converter. Thanks for straightening me out!

"oh I thought it was a converter. Thanks for straightening me out!"

Converters are a lot bulkier and heavier than adapters because they contain the windings needed to "chop" the voltage down to 110v.

SO helpful, I and DH thank you!