Hurricane season is here and we only need to look to last October to see the type of destruction one can bring. If you're starting to stock your hurricane kit, first check out the National Hurricane Center's checklist and make sure you're prepared. Once basic needs are covered, you may want to start thinking about how you'll stay in contact with others and the outside world. With no power, you'll need ways to keep cell phones, laptops and radios going, as well as fans (or heaters) and lighting too.

Below we've gathered the best gadgets to keep you charged, connected and well-lit in case of an emergency and we've included a couple that you can make yourself for the DIY-inclined.