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Photo by Abigail Emsden '23 from Film & Media Studies DSP
Page last updated by CRT on 15 February 2024
Electronic Appliances
Electronic Appliances
Energy Use & Conservation
Energy Use & Conservation
Voltage Adapters & Converters
Voltage Adapters & Converters
Foreign countries and locations may operate at different electric voltages from the US.
Electricity in most countries runs on 220/240 volts, while the US runs on 110/120 volts. Research your country’s electric situation before your departure so you can buy at least one adaptor/transformer.
Consider Local Appliances
Consider Local Appliances
Past students have thought it is wiser to buy inexpensive appliances locally in host country or keep them to a minimum (i.e., dual-voltage hairdryer, etc.). You will want to buy plug adapters/ for your laptop and cell phone charger which may be available at Dartmouth’s computer store.
Be sure you have checked the power requirements for your computer. It is advisable to take the specifications with you from your computer instruction booklet. Most Apple products, smart phones, and many newer electronic devices are dual voltage.
Throughout many locations outside of the United States, energy consumption is much more conservative.
Throughout many locations outside of the United States, energy consumption is much more conservative.
Students should respect the use of utilities according to local resources and norms. It is respectable to turn off air conditioners (A/C) and other appliances when leaving your residence.
International Phone Plans
International Phone Plans
🤳Wi-Fi Linked Apps
🤳Wi-Fi Linked Apps
Many free or affordable apps allow you to communicate using the internet and/or Wi-Fi connections. WhatsApp is popular around the world. Others exist as well, so be sure to have one or more alternate methods of Wi-Fi communications on your phone and let family members know to use these apps to communicate with you.
📱Cell Phones
📱Cell Phones
It may also be helpful to research some alternate methods of communication before your departure. Students are responsible for covering all costs associated with the use of cell phones/telephones unless specified otherwise, so plan and budget accordingly.
Not all U.S. mobile phones work internationally, and those that do may charge very high rates for calls and data. Consider researching cell phone usage, availability, and options in your program location. In some cases, you may be able to carry your phone if it is unlocked and buy a local SIM card upon arrival. Sometimes investing in an international phone plan for the first few weeks of your program may also be feasible.
📳 Calling Abroad
📳 Calling Abroad
Go to the “How to Call Abroad” website to learn about international and long-distance calling. The website has useful information relating to country entry and exit codes, search services, dialing instructions, and time zone conversions.
📶 Homestay Host Landlines
📶 Homestay Host Landlines
Be aware that students staying with homestay hosts should avoid using their hosts’ phone services. If it is an emergency, please ask and be considerate when using their phone for making long-distance and international phone calls as they are expensive.
Dartmouth Libraries are available to you during your time away to help with researching your destination before departure, accessing Dartmouth library materials while away, and getting help via zoom or chat.
Dartmouth Libraries are available to you during your time away to help with researching your destination before departure, accessing Dartmouth library materials while away, and getting help via zoom or chat.
Internet
Internet
Internet access will differ depending on the program and the location. In many cases, Wi-Fi connections will be available in your housing. Students may also be able to use Internet cafés or Wi-Fi hotspots if Internet is not as easily accessible.
🔐 Cybersecurity
🔐 Cybersecurity
Traveling to a foreign country presents unique security challenges. Electronic devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones are exposed to potential theft or damage by malicious actors in unfamiliar places like airports, train stations, hotels, or conference halls. Academic and business travelers are high-risk targets for identity fraud and theft of intellectual property. Traveling to a foreign country requires extra safeguards to protect your data and comply with regulations.
Review the IT Security Guidelines While Traveling Internationally for further information on protecting your digital identity.
💻 Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
💻 Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
Consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to protect yourself and your data. One option is to download and use Dartmouth’s VPN.
❓Internet Freedom
❓Internet Freedom
Please be careful about your laptop’s security while accessing the internet at non-secure locations.
Be aware that different countries may have different restrictions and laws on file-sharing, acceptable content, and censorship. Research this before you depart for your destination.
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