Since frying a dryer in London despite having plugged it into a converter, I have become gun shy about converters. I do not want to fry my I Pad or any other electronic devices while in Italy. Is there any trick or do I simply plug it and forget it (into the converter, of course)? Was I simply unlucky with my hairdryer? Also, if anyone has tips on how to "get the most" out of an I Pad abroad, I would be interested. Thank you in advance for answering an inexperienced traveler's question.

Most modern electronics like computers and phones are dual voltage compatible so you will only need an adapter and not a converter.

There should be a marking on the charger unit something like 110-240V, so have a look.

Check to see if the iPad actually needs a converter. My little Acer laptop, for example, and my iPod work on European current without a converter. The Acer, though, requires a grounded plug, so you have to pay attention to the plug adaptor that you use.

apc.com

I always power condition my I Pad in Italy

lots of power variability that will

fry expensive electronics Magellan has some good options also

they are theft magnets insuremytrip.com always wise for me.

Happy Travels!

www.magellans.com/store/Adaptors___Converters - CachedAdaptor & Converter Kits ... Airline Power Adaptors ... Magellan's Travel Supplies: Your Trusted Source of Travel Supplies ...

I've never fried anything in a converter. Hair dryers are notorious, however for burning out even at home. They used to have a little switch that you needed to flip before using a different current, but I don't think that is done anymore. It is rare we stay anywhere in Europe that doesn't have its own hair dryer. (and we usually opt for 2 or 3 star places, tops)

If you buy a really good converter from Orvis or AAA, for example, you should feel pretty confident about it. We've been using the same converters for several years, recharging batteries for cameras, electric razors, my Kindle, and I've no concerns about my iPad for an upcoming trip.

Hi Liz,

If your charger says 110-220V it is "dual voltage". No converter needed, only a plug adapter that will allow a US plug to fit an Italian outlet.

The iPad charger is universal voltage. The only thing you would need would be an adapter. Going from the US to Italy, you should get something like this:

http://www.amazon.com/Power-Bright-G...0041762&sr=8-4

Note that many outlets in Italy have a 3rd hole in the middle. This is simply a grounding plug and you can use the 2-prong plug above in these outlets. Be careful of plugs like this:

http://www.amazon.com/VCT-ADAPTER-CO...d_bxgy_e_img_b

These types of plugs often have thicker prongs that won't fit into some European outlets. Better to get the simpler model.

Alternatively, if you wanted a worldwide kit, Apple sells this:

http://store.apple.com/us/product/MB...3MDQ#-Overview

I am happy for the advice and equally happy to report that the converter i bought at Target was perfect. No fried electronics yet overa week into Italy. Thanks all!!