Photo storage device

I typically bring plenty of compact flash cards for my camera when I travel, but as a snap-happy shooter, it doesn’t take long for me to fill 6GB worth of card space. That can be a problem if I’m going into the wilderness or away from my computer for a long stretch.

My solution: the Epson P-2000, a small-size, 40GB hard drive that holds thousands of photos (it can also store videos and music, though I haven’t tried to upload these yet). I can pop my Compact Flash or Secure Digital cards into built-in memory slots and upload all my photos (JPEG or RAW format), then delete the images on my cards and keep shooting. The Epson has a vibrant, 3.8” screen that lets me easily view photos so I can delete the bad ones, though I have found the battery dies quickly if I use the screen too much. I’ve used the device on several longer camping trips (at 5¾-by-3¼ inches, it doesn’t take up too much backpack space) and on a cruise, when I didn’t want to take my computer with me.

Now here’s the catch: Epson discontinued the P-2000, but you can get a refurbished model online for $219, including a $30 rebate, which is less than half of what I originally paid. Or you can get the new Epson P-3000, which has a 4” screen and is selling for $299, including $150 worth of rebates.