The "what ifs" of travel have produced some helpful products. The following innovative standbys have been tested by the author and may be available in stores. Prices quoted do not include shipping.
PRESTO CHANGE-O: The Pop-Up Changing Room provides a little private space for dressing - or whatever - at the beach, a park, or along the roadside. When open, the tentlike nylon room stands more than 6 feet tall and 3 feet square, with mesh panels at the top for ventilation and a zippered door.
The "room" twists down in seconds (once you get the hang of the steel-spring process) into a 24-inch-diameter disk that fits into a zippered pouch that has a shoulder strap. Hanging lines inside can hold clothes, and the nylon floor removes for cleaning (machine washable). Four stakes are included for keeping the 5-pound unit from going airborne when empty.
Pop-Up Changing Room 71105 is $69.95 from Hammacher Schlemmer. Call toll-free 1-800-543-3366; www.hammacher.com
CHARGE IT: Cell phone out of juice and no outlet available? Just plug the matchbook-sized Cellboost into your phone's charging port (no cords or adapters needed) and you've got 60 minutes of talk time or 60 hours of standby time - which is great for when you want to be sure you can be reached.
The disposable battery charger, which operates on a nonreplaceable or rechargeable alkaline battery, restores power to a dead phone battery within two minutes and allows users to continue talking while simultaneously charging the phone (the battery charging icon will be displayed). The unit can be used in separate sessions, totaling one hour of talk time.
Cellboost comes in different models compatible with specific cell phone ports, so you will need to know the specifics of your phone before buying this item. Worth keeping an extra few handy for emergencies.
Cellboost is $6.99. Call toll-free 1-800-833-1070; www.cellboost.com
BAGGING A BED: Need an extra bed at the hotel or at grandma's house? Aero, makers of portable, fast-inflating and -deflating beds with built-in electric pumps, has introduced an improved version of its raised bed. When inflated, this is almost the height of a regular bed, which makes it preferable to floor-level sleeping.
The Pillowtop Raised AeroBed's sleeping surface is soft, feltlike, flocked PVC - nicer than the previous vinyl - and the electric pump is now recessed, making it less likely to get bumped, and making the system more compact.
The 24-inch-high bed has "pontoons" on each side that inflate along with the bed for extra stability. An included, fitted mattress pad and dust ruffle dress up the look. Everything goes into the carry bag (included). At 14 pounds in twin size (16 pounds in full, 20 pounds in queen), it's a hefty lug, but the bed repeatedly has earned its space in my car trunk.
Raised Pillowtop AeroBed is $199 in twin size, $249 for full; $299 for queen. Call toll-free 1-888-462-4468; www.thinkaero.com
FIT AFAR: Need a boost for keeping fit on the go? The Exercise Gymball, a giant, inflatable rubber ball like those increasingly popular at gyms for aiding strength, flexibility and balance training, is available in a traveling version.
The fitness ball, which comes with a quick pump, is great for low-impact aerobic workouts, to tone muscles and for improving coordination and agility. The Gymball comes in three sizes, depending on the user's height. An optional workout video serves as a personal trainer in hotel rooms with video players.
Deflated, the Gymball and pump stash in luggage or the car trunk. It's also useful as an ergonomic chair substitute for working at a desk on the road or at home: The height is right and sitting erect on the Gymball improves back strength.
Exercise Gymball is $35 to $45, depending on size; Gymball workout video, $25, from the Relax the Back Store. Call toll-free 1-800-222-5728; www.relaxtheback.com
- Freelance writer Judi Dash lives in Beachwood, Ohio.
