A Travel Mat that Does Double Duty

Tweet

I have to admit I chuckled when I first saw the Seat Soother Laptop Airflow Mat (pictured below). But the travel accessory is a good idea for business travelers who frequently use their laptops while waiting out flight delays at the airport. The mat, which is made of small beads connected with plastic string and comes in a fabric bag with handles, shields your lap from the warm underside of your notebook. Unlike, say, your coat, the mat's design helps keep air flowing so it doesn't heat up.

One big drawback is the mat's cover, which looks like a reusable grocery bag and doesn't exactly scream "titan of business." The mat, which also is being marketed as a shiatsu-style massager, is available for $24.85 at Magellan's, an online travel accessory store.

The Goods is focused exclusively on products and services for business owners. We won't ignore the latest netbook or the hottest smartphone, but we'll also examine the services, software, and Web-based tools that can help make your business succeed. Nadine Heintz, a senior editor at Inc., edits The Goods, as well as Quick Hits. Send suggestions, comments, and deals to nheintz@inc.com.