Whenever I travel (and will be in a car) I find this to be much more practical than taking my conventional charger. It is lightweight and has saved me many times when my battery goes in the middle of a conversation (e.g. when getting directions). I noticed that there are now colored car chargers which I would consider as it is easy to overlook a black cord when leaving a rental car (especially at night). But what makes this charger especially valuable is the rapid charge feature; you pay a bit more for the freedom it affords -- just be careful not to leave it behind!