It would be much easier to bang out those text messages with a full-sized keyboard, but lugging a collapsable one around would just add too much weight to your ever-growing collection of tech.

Brookstone's answer is an ultra-portable virtual keyboard, which its selling for $99. Attach it to your bag by keychain and unhook it when you want to use. The device connects to your laptop or smartphone through bluetooth or USB and projects a laser keyboard onto any flat surface. With a rechargeable battery, the compact device can sustain typing for up to two hours.

Though this device would have been perfect for the traveling tech-guru in the family, holiday demands have halted orders with the first round of shipments going out the first week of December.