A retractable USB stick comprises: an elongate housing having an open end, a USB stick disposed within the elongate housing, and means for causing the USB stick to project out of and retract back into the housing. The means for causing the USB stick to project may be patterned after comparable means in a lipstick dispenser mechanism of U.S. Pat. No. 3,941,489. The means for causing the USB stick to project/retract may comprise an outer holder having an elongate housing with an opening at one end, an intermediate sleeve sized disposed between the USB stick and the holder, and means for imparting reverse motion includes a toothed wheel disposed at a back end of the intermediate sleeve, teeth on an inner surface of the outer holder and teeth on an elongate linear track extending from the back end of the USB stick. Optionally, the USB stick may be releasably locked in the open position, and means may be provided for closing the open end of the housing.