Get All Access for $5/mo

Gadget Lust: Flipit USB Travel Charger Hotel rooms almost never have enough electrical outlets for business travelers. Here's a handy problem-solver.

FlipitLousy hotels; they never have enough AC outlets. You go to plug in your phone, only to find that the TV and desk lamp beat you to it. Or the nightstand lamp and hotel phone. Sure, you could always unplug something, but that's inconvenient at best. (No TV? Are you kidding me?)

Enter Flipit, a USB charger that works even when both outlets are otherwise occupied. All you do is unplug a cord, slip the prongs through the Flipit's matching holes, then plug it back in. Now you've got a powered USB port that delivers 0.75 amps (enough to charge any mobile phone, though just shy of what you need for an iPad).

I'm not entirely sure how the Flipit works this bit of electrical wizardry, but I do think it's pretty cool. And with a price tag of just $15.99, it's more than reasonable for travelers weary of dealing with insufficient outlet availability (or IOA, as I like to call it).

What do you think: killer problem-solver, or a goofy gadget for folks too lazy to move the dresser? (There's almost always a spare outlet back there.)

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Editor's Pick

Business Solutions

Amp up Productivity with MS Office 2021 for Just $60

Unlock the full potential of your business with a lifetime license to the suite of beloved apps.

Leadership

From Crisis to Control — How to Lead Effectively in High-Stress Scenarios

From the eye of the storm to the heart of leadership: How BELFOR's Sheldon Yellen's approach to the disaster recovery industry is revolutionizing resilience in business.

Operations & Logistics

3 Reasons Why Your Business Should Start Digitizing Payments

Customers will continue to demand more digital payment options and expect convenience, security and simplicity — and businesses will need to adapt or struggle.

Starting a Business

How to Connect With Buyers and Get Your Products on Store Shelves, According to the Founder of Daring and Cadence

Ross MacKay, founder and original CEO of the plant-based food company Daring Foods and co-founder of performance beverage brand Cadence, shares the strategies that have landed his products in over 40,000 stores nationwide.

Business News

Southwest Airlines Is Switching Up Its Boarding Policy and Assigning Seats for the First Time Ever

The airline, known for its unique open seating model, will assign seats for the first time in company history.

Growing a Business

Being a Good Manager Isn't Enough — Here Are 5 Leadership Skills That Will Keep Your Employees Around

The article outlines five key leadership skills — engagement culture, effective staffing strategies, AI utilization, shared team reality, and work-life balance — that can improve team performance and reduce turnover, fostering sustainable growth and innovation.