This $14 retractable USB-C cable is my secret to surviving long car rides with my kids

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The Talix retractable cable is typically $22, but on sale for $14 with an Amazon coupon. This USB-C to USB-C cable supports up to 240W, PD 3.2, making it powerful enough to quickly charge laptops and phones. This USB-C-to-USB-C cable is surprisingly fast and efficient for a 4-or 5-foot cable.

Also: These 10+ car gadgets upgrade your daily commute for cheap

If you see me out and about, chances are I'm carrying a charging cable. I don't typically let my kids bring their tablets everywhere, but sometimes a four-year-old needs to wait 90 minutes for their sibling's gymnastics class to end, and a tablet does the trick when the contents of my purse aren't enough entertainment.

Because of this, I keep a USB-C cord on my person or in my purse in case my phone or another device nearby dies, even if I'm not carrying my laptop. But cables can be cumbersome, especially when you're trying to fit them into a tiny pocket in a bag or your pants.

Also: This GaN charger is a cross between a yo-yo and a tape measure