>Not finding a lot in the retractable cords that are long enough, but often wherever I am the power outlet is quite a bit further than where I need to work. Anyone found any cords that are 6' plus that could easily be carried in a laptop bag?

If you use Retractable Extension Cord (for example, http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=2111272&CatId=945) in addition to the retractable power cord, it'll give you up to 10'.