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[prof_dude]

I am moving from a country with 110 V to a country with 220 V. My laptop can of course handle it. What about other appliances? Does it make any sense to move electric stuff? Should I get a power conversion thing? Or better just get rid of all appliances and get new stuff once I get there? I have already decided that the kitchen/laundry will not move with us. But things like printers, vacuum cleaners etc?

[science_expat]

I would dump it (or give it to charity) and buy new stuff. Converters are expensive and don't work that well. I used one for a short time when I first moved to the UK but it really wasn't worth it.

What country are you moving to?

[monsterx]

I'd second the dump it advice, although check your equipment to make sure it doesn't switch to 220 before doing that (once and a while, some electronics will have a little switch).

Also, think about plug adaptors for the laptop before you go, since they will be hard to buy where you are going to (the adaptors at your destination will be going the other direction).  For some models you can buy a new cord, but for Dell, for example, you have to buy a whole new power pack, and they don't sell them in every country.  Bring extra adaptors since they tend to get left in walls.

 

[prytania3]

I'd suggest a yard sale as well and new appliances on arrival. I have never had much success with power converters, but maybe I am just dumb that way.

[prof_dude]

Thanks for the advice! I thought so, but wanted to make sure that I am not doing something stupid. I have several sets of universal plug adaptors since I usually forget to take them when I travel. So, that should be taken care of.

[schoolmarm]

If you have a Mac laptop, get the international plug set.  I think that it is about $100 and takes you around the world.  One of the best things I have ever bought!

I don't know if other laptop makers have such a product, but it is certainly worth looking into.

If you are going to be using adapters, you should buy some extra fuses.  Mine always blow at the most inconvenient times, and I keep a couple extra handy.

[expatinuk]

I have a HUGE converter for the vacuum cleaner. I also have a really expensive Miele vacuum that I bought in the UK but doesn't clean nearly as well as my American one... so I still lug the extremely heavy converter around when I vacuum using the American Hoover.

I also have a couple of medium size converters that I use for silly things such as Christmas lights.

For the most part dump your American appliances.

[martina]

I left a 110V. environment years ago for a 220V. envirnoment - my advice after 20+ years of this experience is to get rid of everything but the computer - that's all that works - well. Get new appliances and in the long run you'll save yourself a lot of time and trouble. 

[drdirt55]

How long are you moving for?  If a short time, sell or store your appliances and lease 220V ones.  I came from a 220V environment, sort of - clocks don't run right even with converters - heck, my 220V clock didn't work right with 220V power straight to it.  Irons and some appliances are cheap or reasonable to purchase.  Those appliances you use sparingly might be worth taking and using a converter with.  Who pays for your shipping?  If it is you, don't take anything non-essential or very light weight, shipping will eat up anything you'd save over buying new.