Europe not only has funny-looking plugs -- the holes are round rather than flat -- the voltage is twice that in the United States.

Concerning your electronics, cords automatically convert the current, so you only need an adapter. (Double-check with the manufacturer.) This is not the case with blow dryers, which is the only appliance you should even consider bringing. You can either use an American travel dryer with a converter or buy a European travel dryer. Consider the latter only if you plan to travel extensively in Europe.

How much technology should you bring? The bare minimum. A tablet is ideal unless you plan on doing a lot of typing. Upload books, movies, music and games, and your tablet becomes your entertainment hub.

I recommend bringing a camera. Smartphones and tablets simply don't take as high-quality of pictures.