US to HK voltage

[Sleuth]

I am trying to decide whether to bring small electrical appliances to HK. I understand you can convert US to HK voltage, but have heard that using those converters will eventually destroy the appliance. True story?

[KnowItAll]

Don't bother bringing them. Eventually you're going to plug the wrong thing into the wrong socket and blow up an appliance or two.

(Been there done that... My company had given me an allowance to compensate for the cost when I'd moved ... )

[timklip]

KIA's right...and what ever your thinking of bringing, it was probably made here anyway so leave it at home and buy the local version when you get here. Save yourself some luggage space and peace of mind.

[Sleuth]

I hadn't thought of that possibility, but you're right.

I have an allowance, but it is only US$7,500 and that is before taxes. Assume it will end up being around US$4,000 after. But that is supposed to cover whatever we need to finish the house/apartment. Not sure it will buy all of that plus the appliances. I am trying to be "frugal".

[Sleuth]

Another good point, Timklip. I think even the stuff that says "Made in the USA" probably isn't.
Guess we will be spending a few days helping to power the HK economy.

[Donosti]

or maybe from San Sebastian?
We will be moving by the end of this year. No final date yet

Nos vemos!

[timklip]

when you say 'allowance' do you mean monthly housing allowance? if so US$4000 is over HK$30,000...you should be all right with that amount to finish out your place nicely...depending of course on where you'll be living...but that's a whole other thread (actually probably a dozen of them on this site alone!)

[Sleuth]

No, my housing allowance is altogether different. And I don't think I will be able to skim off it to furnish the house. That US$4,000 is for furnishing the house. My housing allowance is based on a furnished apartment, which is why the other allowance is so small.

After I see some housing prices, I am thinking of asking for part of the excess allowance for furnishings. But again, a different thread.

[Keb]

Don't bother bringing them. Eventually you're going to plug the wrong thing into the wrong socket and blow up an appliance or two.

(Been there done that... My company had given me an allowance to compensate for the cost when I'd moved ... )

My husband and I are moving from the US. in July this year. We have a plasma TV, nice fridge, home thearter and all that good stuff. I have been trying to convince him of bringing those things to HK instead of selling them for a few bucks in the US. or just leaving them behind. Is this really not worth it? I was hoping we could take these appliances and not have to spend again on those things. We will get a home allowance but still you lose money here. So, I thought about getting some power converters going. Please advise!!!

[applefan]

Keb,

I'm in the exact same situation, also moving in June/July timeframe from the U.S. I just spent the last few years buying nice stereo systems and other electronics that I really, really like (although I don't have a plasma TV). Like you, I'm trying to "save" some money and not sell these cheaply and rebuy everything in HK. I believe you can convert some of the things to be used in HK. However, I believe it is significantly cheaper to buy the converters in HK. I'd wait till you get there to buy the converters.