Array Chi

27Dec/10Off

Array Chi

What Outlet Adapters & Converters do I need for Paris?

I am studying abroad in Paris for 4 months and I need advice on outlet adapters and converters for Paris. All my electronic devices are American. Could you please give specific advice for my devices as I have heard a vast array of different information? Specific adapters? Do I need a converter for any of the devices below? Where can I buy the items? (not online)

I am bringing
- Macbook Pro
- Chi Straight Iron
- Hot Tools Curling Iron
- Zoe Blow Dryer
- Camera (still need to buy so I'm uncertain of the brand)

Please only specific advice for the above items as I need practical advice, not a lesson in European electricity.
Leaving my CHI straightener is not an option.

There are two pieces of the puzzle to getting electronics to work overseas - voltage and plug size.

And there are two pieces of equipment that you need to get your appliances to work - a converter and a transformer. The transformer changes the voltage and the converter changes the plug size. Sometimes you can buy a single unit that does both.

Now here's where it gets a bit complicated: some electronics are dual voltage. It's likely that your Macbook Pro is. Look at the power cord - if there is a brick portion to the power cord, check there. If it says there's a range of voltage that can be "input" such as 100V-240V, then it's dual voltage. You only need the converter (to change the plug) in that case.

Most of the hair appliances won't be dual voltage and will need both a transformer and a converter.

Recommendations - leave the curling iron, straight iron and blow dryer at home. Plan to buy French ones for use during your trip. You'll not only eliminate the problem about getting the voltage and plug right, you avoid the potential embarrassment of blowing the fuses in the home where you are staying because American appliances often suck more energy than French homes are capable of providing. Often after extended use on different voltage they don't work as well when you get them home anyway....

Where to buy - look at a travel bookstore.