I am trying to find some sort of a portable spice rack system for my
dad for Christmas.  I would envision something that would look sort of
like a briefcase (possibly) and fold open to reveal the spices.  It
would allow my dad to cook in different places and bring his spices
with him.  I'm not sure if anything like this exists so I might have
to find a creative solution.
Also, he has a lot of spices, I'm looking for something that would
hold 20-40 probably.  If it was small I suppose I could just get a
bunch of holders.
I saw this one, but it seems like it is too small (and also quite
expensive if I were to get 2 or 3): http://www.spicestogo.net/
Also, it might be nice if he could use his existing containers.  I
know I do not want prefilled containers like this one:
http://www.flight001.com/category.htm?viewbyid=5&viewbyitemid=245&step=0
(right side)

I recommend that you try looking for something outside the kitchen
area.  I looked for a long time for a very large spice rack for my
husband.  Nothing was large enough, so I finally found the perfect
thing - a cd rack from Target.  What you need is a carrying case with
lots of compartments.  I would look in the cosmetics section - they
have vanity cases for make-up.  Or check out a tackle box for fishing
gear in sporting goods, or even a small tool box in hardware.  Also in
the home storage section, there are storage drawers that slide out and
are easily carried around.  You could get small ziplock baggies at a
craft store - in the bead and jewelry making section to put the spices
in and keep them from making a mess.