TripDongle

Whether you’re looking to track a new driver’s driving behaviors or you just want to make sure your family or friends (or even your work) know where you are when you’re on the road, TripDongle can help.

TripDongle is a small smart device that plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter port. It turns on when you turn on your car and then syncs to a cell phone, tracking information such as when and where a car is turned on and off, where you go, your speed, mileage per gallon and more.

Why would you need such data? Well, for Uber or Lyft drivers or other individuals who use their cars for work, having that data available (and also sent to another device beyond the one in the car) can provide an added layer of safety. For travelers who frequently get around via car, you have the same reassurance your location and activity is being tracked, just in case the worst happens.

If you drive around for work, whether as an entrepreneur or when you work for someone else, you can use the data provided by TripDongle to claim tax reimbursements or just file a mileage report with your office when claiming your expenses.

TripDongle also allows you to use the app in conjunction with SplitWise for easily splitting the cost of driving somewhere accurately between friends, coworkers or fellow travelers.

Lose your car in crowded parking lots? TripDongle helps with that, too. The app always remembers your car’s parked location and can guide you to it, whether you’re in a lot or walking around unfamiliar street parking. Additionally, if you’re parked at a meter, the app will keep track of how long you’ve been parked so you can avoid a ticket.

TripDongle is ran a Kickstarter campaign through Dec. 7, with a fundraising goal of $15,000. For a pledge of $23, donors received one TripDongle device for nearly 35 percent off the retail price, with free app usage for one year.