Electricity

Without the  correct adapter, an American appliance may not operate properly in a foreign  country. If you plug in an appliance and the motor races, it is receiving too much  current; unplug it immediately or the motor will burn out. On the other hand, if  the motor runs slowly, the appliance is not getting enough current. Also, many  outlets around the world are shaped such that U.S. plugs will not fit them. 

Most small appliances in the U.S. operate at 110 volts, but similar appliances in  many other countries use 220 volts. If you plug a 110-volt appliance into a 220-volt outlet, you will ruin the motor. Many small appliances, such as hair dryers and razors, have a switch that can be used to accept either 110 or 220 volts. If you plan to take small appliances with you when you travel, be sure you have the kind that can operate on either current. You will still need an adapter plug, even if your  appliance has a voltage switch. 

Voltage converters are available to allow American appliances to work properly in other countries’ electrical outlets. All you do is plug your appliance into the  converter, and plug the converter into the wall outlet. The converter cuts in half  the number of volts flowing into your appliance. Be sure you choose the right  types, since each is designed to operate with specific appliances: 

1-50 watts for electric razors, radios cassette players, etc. 

50-600 watts for hair dryers, hair curlers, curling irons, etc. 

Frequency 

This is shown in the number of hertz (cycles per second). The U.S. uses 60 hertz.  Even if voltages are similar, a 60 hertz U.S. computer will not function properly on  50 hertz current, which is frequently used in Europe and other places. 

Adapter plugs come in numerous shapes and sizes and can be attached to your  appliance cord to adapt its plug to the type of socket used in various countries.  Adapters that convert your plug from an American type or other types can be  purchased at retail stores such as Target and Radio Shack. Converters change the  current of electricity for your appliances since most foreign outlets have greater  voltage in their outlets. Higher voltage can cause small appliances like curling  irons to burn out if they are not plugged into a converter. Sometimes adapters  and converters are more trouble than they are worth. It may save money and  frustration if you simply buy whatever small appliance you need once abroad.  That way you save space in your luggage too.