All Along
Destinations Get in gear Going Strong Outbound Real deals Sensible traveler Taking Off Where they went
Troubleshotting gadgets
By Lylah M. Alphonse, Globe Staff, 03/23/03
|
|
||
|
All Along Destinations Get in gear Going Strong Outbound Real deals Sensible traveler Taking Off Where they went
|
||
Some international plug-adapter kits cannot handle items as powerful as a laptop computer, leaving your equipment open to potential power problems and you without your gear when you need it. Brookstone’s ‘‘step down’’ portable transformer lets you convert the wall outlet itself from the international 220/240-volt standard to the 110/120-volt US standard, keeping your American appliances and gadgets fully functional. It’s a bit bulky, but, unlike many adapters, you can use it to operate everything from an electric razor to a fax machine, stereo, or VCR. It has a built-in fuse to protect against power surges, and the plug fits most 220/240-volt outlets. It costs $25 and is available at Brookstone stores and in its catalog (800-351-7222, www.brookstone.com).
Spotlight problems on the road
Road trips go more smoothly when you know you have the tools to take care of whatever comes along. This safety lantern can shine a spotlight on any problem, and has a blinking hazard light and a tool kit inside. The kit includes a hammer, Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, adjustable wrench, slip joint pliers, and a set of hex keys. It runs on four C batteries (and comes with an adapter to power it via your car battery). The lantern is 15.-by-6.-by-3. inches; the set costs $35 and is available from Red Envelope (877-733-3683, www.redenvelope.com).
A torch worth carrying
New Hampshire-based Herrington’s V-3 Tri-Torch is a cut above other flashlights. Three virtually indestructible LEDs, recessed into special reflective tubes, produce a brilliant, piercing, blue or white light that burns without producing heat, giving it a measure of safety your standard flashlight doesn’t have. Each of the three lights is controlled by a tiny computer chip, making the flashlight highly energy efficient: Three 1.5-volt alkaline batteries (included) last for more than 100 hours of use. The 5-inch-long V-3 is shock- and water-resistant, making it perfect for car or boat trips. It costs $39.95 and is available through the Herrington Catalog (800-622-5221, www.herringtoncatalog.com).
Lylah M. Alphonse’s e-mail address is lalphonse@globe.com.