Step-Up Voltage Converter (110V to 220V)
For travelers going FROM 110V grids TO 220-240V grids
Overview
A step-up voltage converter is used when traveling FROM a 110-127V country TO a 220-240V country and bringing a single-voltage appliance designed for the higher voltage. The classic case is traveling from the US/Canada/Mexico to Europe with a 220V European appliance you want to plug in at a 110V North American outlet at home, OR more commonly: bringing a 110V appliance back to a 220V country and needing it to actually run.
Step-up converters are RARELY needed for travelers because most electronics shipped to North America are 120V-only. The more common direction (220V appliance plugged into a 110V outlet) requires no converter for dual-voltage devices; check the spec plate for "100-240V" — if you see that range, only a plug-shape adapter is needed.
Match the wattage of the converter to the appliance: small electronics (50W), laptops (100W), hair dryers and irons (1000W+). Single-voltage hair dryers commonly need a 1500W+ heavy-duty step-up converter.
