For many technology nuts, travelling can be a logistical nightmare. Not only do you have to remember to pack all the relevant chargers for your various electronics, but you also have to work out which of your adapters are fit for purpose. German electronics manufacturer Ansmann seem to solve both these conundrums at once with its Vario Traveller Universal charger.

The unit promises to charge most Li-ion, Li-Polymer and all AA/AAA rechargeable batteries without the need for adapter plates, thanks to a clever sliding sprung mechanism. Simply pull the main body of the adapter apart to reveal a positive and negative charging pin, match it to the corresponding points and release for a firm grip on the battery. The charging points are easily adjusted thanks to a provided plastic pointer, while the ‘traveller’ is catered for by UK, US and EU plug adapters that come in the box.

Unfortunately the unit’s build quality is not to the highest standard, while supplied instructions are also sparse – a Google search is advised to check for your batteries’ compatibility. The unit is, however, simple to use and will provide an affordable solution to many travellers’ – and general tech-heads’ – age-old problems.