• Check the input voltage allowances of your electronics. Only bring the stuff that lists as 100-240V~ for voltage. If it's only 100-120V~ you'll fry it as soon as you turn it on here.
• Buy a universal plug adapter. Compact, and will cover you in the UK and elsewhere.
• Check if your phone is can run on the 900 / 1800 MH bands. If not, don't bother packing it. If it does, pop into an O2 shop and see if you can get a cheap sim card. This can be way cheaper than using your US plan.
• I've never heard of region coding for wireless. Your DVD drive yes, but just don't buy any DVDs here.

Other than that, enjoy! And always remember, order two pints with your palm turned away from you.