Reptiles or small pets for travelers?

I work on the road (hotels every night) for 9 months a year. I really miss my dog while I'm away and would like to have a small pet to travel with me. I had a feeder mouse a few years ago and she was a great traveling companion but I'd rather not have shavings in the car again. She was perfect in that she slept through the day while I was driving or working and was awake at night when I had time to play with her. I have thought about a small lizard but I believe they all need hear lamps, right?

I'd really be open to any suggestions if anyone can think of one, my main concern is that I wouldn't want to make any animal unhappy or uncomfortable. The biggest problem with that being their cage moving between the car and hotels. Any ideas?