London Travel Answers

It is easier to find plug converters UK>elsewhere than elsewhere>UK (this is the same in most countries). So it makes much more sense for you to buy plug converters before you leave home, or at the airport (though, as you say, they tend to be more expensive in airport shops). Plugs in mainland Europe (two pin, but not like US two pin) are entirely different to those in the UK (three pin) so yes, you will need to buy another set. You can buy these in London very cheaply if you wish try Boots the chemist chain. This page has useful info and pictures of plugs: http://www.kropla.com/electric2.htm More importantly, you should be aware that a higher voltage is used in the UK and mainland Europe than in the Us (I assume by 'America' you mean the US?). Small items such as phones, cameras etc should be fine but you should be careful to check anything which is expensive (e.g. laptop) or produces heat (e.g. hairdryer). If the label does not say it is dual voltage then you will need to use a converter (if you take the item..it's often easier to do without or buy another, cheap version when you arrive). Converters can be heavy items to carry.

leics raises good point about the different currency/voltage in UK - i wouldn't bother with a converter as most hotels will have a hairdryer. I know chargers on cameras and phones are often dual voltage. You don't really find adaptors in the uk to enable you to plug your electrical items in - you can get them but they are really expensive probably cheaper to buy at home!

I have found the adaptors, not currency converters, in the US at fairly reasonable prices. There are even some that are "universal" in that they have push out pegs for various outlets - both UK and the continent. Aside from cost, you are better off finding them before you go as it can be a hassle finding them in Europe as they are only sold to the tourist market there.

You can buy them everywhere and anywhere across London - try Tesco or Boots for reasonably priced convertors.

Agree that plug adaptors are better purchased at home before you leave. I've bought ours at Target and luggage stores; they're not expensive. As far as voltage converters go, I'll also agree that U.S. appliances that need those (hairdryers, curling irons, etc) are best left at home. Home hotel rooms have hairdryers or you can check them out as the reception desk. Even with a converter, you can fry our American models.

If you do want to buy in London then head to Tottenham Court Road for all things electrical. I got my mobile screen replaced in a shop there in less than 30 mins.

Typo - sorry: "MOST hotel rooms have hairdryers...."

I bought a universal plug online (ebay) not so long ago though recently at the airport they had them as well (more expensive though). Much easier than lugging a number of different plugs around

From personal experience, I would not recommend using an American hair dryer anywhere in Europe.. London or Paris.

Just wanted to chime in that I purchased a couple of US to UK adapters at an electronics store on Baker St, only to find them shortly thereafter at the post office priced at a fraction of what I paid.