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The self-powered hub would be my approach if I didn't have an APC TravelPower (which has two USB ports available for charging accessories/necessities).
USB data ports can by specification deliver only 500mA (max) to each connected device. A four-port self-powered hub's power supply should be rated just over 2 Amps (500mA times 4 equals 2 Amps). It's unclear to me if connecting only one or two devices to a 4 port hub would allow you to draw more than 500mA from the ports.
Generally, USB data ports will have a current limiter in them preventing drawing more than 500mA per port, but some hubs may not contain a limiter. I don't know.
Cautions: ziplinq cables are thin and may not be rated for more than the specified 500mA. You may want to contact ziplinq (or competitors boxwave minisync, pocketpctechs Lil'sync) to see if any of their retractable cables can handle more than 500mA. For reference, I would think a 1A rating would be enough.
I'm a fan of ultrasmall. I've seen a belkin USB self-powered 4-port dongle that looks interesting (i.e. small). When shopping for a self-powered hub, look at the size of the power supply - you'll have to carry that, too. In case it's not obvious, avoid "bus-powered" hubs that don't contain a power supply.
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