Different plugs, voltages, and currents in different countries present a challenge for travellers who like their own
appliances. Modern hotels, and recent renovations often include a hair dryer and dual plugs for North American electric
razors. Find out in advance about the voltage at the hotel if you plan on taking electrical appliances with you. Some
destinations are primarily either 220V or 110V, but it really depends on the hotel itself. In most cases, you need
more than a simple adapter for the plug. If the appliance does not have a switch between 220V and 110V, you will need a
step down transformer (used by North Americans to go from 220V in the wall down to 110V). This is best available in a
Hi-Low Kit, which you can purchase from us for approximately $$ plus shipping to your home. This is a one-time investment
that is worthwhile if you are planning more foreign travel in the future. Think ahead about the most heavy duty
electrical appliance with which you are likely to travel. For most, it is a simple electric razor or hairdryer, where a
low-end 50-1800 watt kit will do the trick. If you're looking to power a television or other high wattage appliances,
you'll need a larger transformer. Using a transformer for any long period of time is probably not advisable - you're
almost better off to buy another appliance.
Laptop computers often have a built in feature that automatically detects either 110V or 220V when you turn the computer on. Check your owner's manual, or call the manufacturer. In this case, or in the case of an appliance with dual voltage settings, all you need is the adapter plug that is very inexpensive.
Call us for details, as there are various types of plugs even for the same country. We carry a full line of
electrical plugs and
adapters from Austin House, which you can order directly from us.
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