5 items you need for press events that I always bring #Tips US 3/8

When I went to my first conference, I had no idea what I was doing. I tried to read up on tips, which helped, but didn't prepare me 100%. I went to the conference armed with business cards, cell phone which I as a camera, a back-up camera, and my laptop. I definitely underestimated how much I would be using my tech devices. As a techie, I was a total failure. My cell and camera were consistently dying and with back to back events, I couldn't get them charged in time. I didn't have time to go back to my room and find a charger! I needed to be around. LOL, I learnt my lesson though and have come to love external chargers.

Recently, I was sent a MyCharge Trek 2000 to review. The Trek 2000 is a 2000mAh external battery that adds 9 hours of talk time. Compatible devices include Blackberry®, LG, Motorola, Nokia, Samsung, and iPhone 3/4/4S.

It came ready to use, however, the first charge didn't last very long. I have been told in the past though, it's best to drain it out first before recharging it in order to maintain battery life. So that's what I did. My first use charged my phone from 45% to about 95% before dying. After I fully charged the Trek 2000 again, it performed much better. Charge time was relatively quick in comparison to an external charger that I already own.

The built-in USB charging cable connects to your USB port or any outlet adapter to charge the device. When your device is fully charged, Trek 2000's notification tone will conveniently let you know. A built-in micro-USB connector allows the ability to charge up to 2 devices at once. At a size of 3.4" x 3.2" x 0.6", it was about the size and thickness of my palm. The overall design is lightweight and relatively compact, with the cords neatly tucked in when not in use. One of the features I love is the fold-out Apple dock that is able to support your iPod or iPhone (up to generation 4S) for display while charging. The Apple dock, although the adaptor will clearly fit the iPad or iPad2...I wouldn't use it for that purpose as it may not have the power to charge it fully and safely in that docked position. Stick to using the Trek 2000 with smaller devices.

I did have some issues with the Trek 2000 but it may be because of how heavily I use my tech devices. If I'm at a short press event, then it's probably not an issue. However, if I'm at a several day event or travelling long hours, I can see how it may not be as convenient.

At the original price point of $69.99, it is a bit steep for a 2000 mAh charger but at the sale point of $39.99, it's a bit more feasible. For the casual user or traveller, it is probably good enough to last you through the day until you get home or back to your hotel at night. If you expect to use more, then I'd suggest an upgrade to a higher mAh charger. As for me, it will be added to my arsenal of chargers so that I can always be prepared for my travels, whether they be press events or personal.

5 items you need for press events that I always bring in no particular order:
1) Camera -Be it a point and shoot, DSLR, or my iPhone camera, I'll always be prepared to try to take some pictures because they make posts more lively. Besides that, you want to be able to capture the memory and events going on.
2) Business Cards -Let's face it, you may meet a bunch of people and they're likely not going to remember you. Business cards leave a way for them to contact and reconnect with you.
3) Backup chargers -I use my iPhone to snap pictures, instagram, tweet, post to facebook, take notes, etc. No wonder the batteries drain so quickly. Without my back up external chargers, I'd have nothing to tweet with. What would I ever do?
4) Something to write with -This can be your tablet, your phone, pen & paper...anything really that you want to take notes with. Or hey, go with a recording device. Some people use their iPhones to record it so they don't get anything wrong.
5) Comfortable Fashion -If you're going to be talking to people and walking around all day, you want to be dressed comfortably and professionally. Don't forget to bring that smile!

Did I miss any items or do you have any suggestions for what else you might bring to press events or conferences?

Buy It: Shop online for the MyCharge Trek 2000.

Win It: One lucky WOS reader will win a Trek 2000 myCharge of their own. Enter on the Giveaway Tools form below from Feb 21, 2013 10PM EST to Mar 08, 2013 11:59PM EST. Open to US, 18+. Good luck! Please take the time to enter my other giveaways while you're here.

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Disclaimer: The product/s mentioned above have been provided for the purposes of this review. No other form of compensation was received. Opinions expressed belong to Whirlwind of Surprises and are NOT influenced in any way. Please view my full disclosure, TOS, and privacy policy.

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