Is it possible to download the files on an SDHC memory card to a portable storage device which is not a computer? I would like to find a small, portable storage option for transfering photos from the cameras memory card which does not require travelling with a PC.

Any of the MP4 players with a SD card Slot will save Picture files and you can view them to be sure they are downloaded properly before you delete them from the card.
But big pics will fill up any device pretty fast.
I just carry a few SD cards.

I was hoping to find a way to download the files to a jump drive,where an 8gb device is about $20.but,you need some device to supply the power for the usb port,and neither a sd card or a jump drive have a power supply.I thought about making a small device to supply the exchange of data,only problem is that sd cards arent that expensive,and it is easiest to do as the specialist noted,and just own a few sd cards.

You can get little Hard Drives that you can load onto but unless you can see the result you can't trust a transfer. If your pics or videos are something you REALLY don't want to loose. Don't delete 'em from the card till your sure you have saved them at least twice.
With an internet phone you should be able to send your stuff home or put it on the net somewhere. As a backup in case your gear is stolen.