I started the series of holiday “geek” shopping guys last week with SanDisk Cruzer USB Flash Drive and I’ll continue today by talking about different types of cables and cords. In holidays past, you can probably remember at least one occasion where someone forgot to get batteries to power the new toy. Today one of the most important things to remember is cords and cables.

Your shopping list could include a new television, game console, laptop or any number of other devices that output video. It wouldn’t be very fun if you didn’t have HDMI cables to connect the new toys, now would it? Even if you don’t think you need them, it doesn’t hurt to have an extra cable or two around just in case. You don’t need to buy the most expensive cables out there, I’ve given you a link for a two pack that sells for under $10 and does a great job.

Of course there are also the numerous devices that need to sync data or simply be charged. The most common cable for this is a USB to Micro USB cable. You can get really flimsy ones for under $2 but I find they tend to fail within 3 months. I’ve given you a link to cables that are much sturdier and still sell for under $6. I think I have at least four of these throughout my house ready to plug-in for charging plus one in the car. Again, you can always use extras so stock up!

Not only do you need a way to connect the video and charge your new devices, you need to have a way to get them electricity. I find one of the best ways to do this is with the Belkin Mini Surge Protector with USB. It supports three plugs and has two separate USB outlets in a very compact package. I have one that goes in my travel bag on every trip I take and also use it around the house when I’m not traveling. This amazing little device sells for under $11.

Whether you get these products for yourself or give them as a gift, they are definitely something that will get used! Heck, just writing this post made me think I may need to get some more for myself.