I’m all about the useful, practical gadgets and gizmos that make things easier for me. When I’m traveling, I’m even more in love with handy products, particularly those that pack well and pack a lot of usefulness into their compactness. Here are a few products I find indispensible when I’m on the road:

1. Belkin Mini Surge Protector Dual USB Charger - This charger turns a single wall outlet into a charger for three devices plus has two USB ports to charge other devices. I’ve found this device particularly handy when I’m at conferences where power outlets are at a premium. I can share a single outlet with several people at once so we all get a charge.

2. Cobra CPI-150 Micro Port 150 Watt Power Inverter (Black) - I use this power inverter above and carry it with me to use in rental cars when I’m traveling on business to charge my inevitably low-on-power laptop. It comes in a small pleather zipped pouch to compactly hold both inverter box and plug. My ony complaint about this device is that it is small, and I often overlook it or forget it on some of my trips. I’ve thought of keeping it in my car but then tend to forget to grab it and put it into my bag when I’m getting on a flight. I need to start keeping it in my computer bag!

3. Rally 7413 200W Cup Holder Power Inverter with USB Port - This device seems like it would be very handy for my own car versus taking it along with me for rental cars. Now I’m sure most of you don’t have fairly regular seven hour drives to get to the airport like I do, but even as you drive between meetings, being able to charge devices w/o different converters for 12v power seems like a real convenience.

4. Juicebar - Pocket Solar Charger - Personally, I want a solar-power iPhone case like the IceTech SOLAR-3000 Series iPhone compatible Solar Charger, however, if you don’t have an iPhone or have multiple gadgets and need power while outside, the Juicebar is more flexible with 12 different connectors. Keep in mind you need direct sunlight to get a charge so if you’re out on an overcast day, you may be out of luck. But if you have sun, you’ll have power. Other solar chargers like the Solar Charger by SW Technologies also have an A/C adapter so you can power by traditional electricity as an option.

5. iGo PowerXtender Emergency Charger Pack for iPod/iPhone - When all else fails, being able to tap into two regular double A batteries to power up my iPod or iPhone is a relief. Sometimes, there are simply no power outlets around so I carry my iGo PowerXtender in my handbag or computer bag for a quick charge in a pinch. While it can charge up your iPhone or iPod, you can also run it off the batteries for a while. I’ve even watched TV shows and movies on my iPhone on planes while plugged into this device. You can purchase different iGo tips for various other mobile devices.

When your work relies on being connected and being connected relies on being powered up, finding the right devices to stay charged can be a great convenience, especially when you’re on the road.

What charging devices do you swear by?

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