Also, since the quality of electrical power might be an issue, an Universal Surge Suppressor might be a goody buy, especially one that includes plug adaptors that will work in most of the world.

In addition to voltage, the frequency at which the power is generated may also differ, usually from 50 Hz to 60 Hz.  Does this matter?  Yes, it might.  While it is possible to convert voltage, it is not possible to convert frequency, though some devices are built to handle these differences as discussed below.

Given the complexities of safely using your electrical appliances overseas, you may want to consider some alternatives. If you plan on staying in one country for awhile, you might want to buy a hair dryer or electric razor there. Battery operated appliances are another option if you don't mind replacing the batteries.

while you drive, ride or even fly!

• Converts 12-volt DC to 75-, 110- or 150-watt AC

• This AC inverter powers or charges portable DVD players, camcorders, TVs, cell phones, laptop PCs (Pentium 4 requires at least 90 watts), game consoles like Xbox, GameCube

• This AC Inverter can be used in cars, boats, RVs, or airplanes.

• The AC inverter has a built-in thermal cooling fan.

• This AC Inverter has an Auto-reset short-circuit protection.

• This AC Inverter has an Overload protection.

• Low-battery alarm and shutdown.

• Weighs 7 to 10.5 ounces depending on model.

3 Way Socket with Battery Analysis

 Socket adapters are great for powering or charging portable devices. This clever socket adapter not only triples your socket availability, but has also got a status light which lets you know if your car battery is getting low. It expands one cigarette lighter socket to power 3 electronic items. You can swivel the head to adjust to the angle needed for use. This socket adaptor has direct plug-in and there is no installation needed.

• This socket adaptor plugs into any 12-volt cigarette lighter socket.

• The socket adaptor powers three 12-volt electronic items.

• Three LEDs warn of low car-battery levels (red, yellow, green).

• There is mounting hardware included with this socket adaptor.

4 Way Socket

 This four-socket adapter allows you to bring along a quartet of portable electronics. You can plug this socket adaptor into any cigarette lighter socket to immediately expand one cigarette lighter socket to power 4 electronic items. This socket adaptor has a fuse protector and all mounting hardware is included.

• The socket adaptor expands one cigarette lighter socket to power four electronic items.

• Built-in fuse protector guards against overloads with this socket adaptor.

• There is mounting hardware included with this socket adaptor.

Makes Available In Adapter