Travelon: We Can Help You (And Your Laptop) Fly The Friendly Skies

Posted by: dgoldring on Aug 21 2008 - 17 views

These days, it seems like every time I turn around, there are new restrictions about what you can or cannot take on an airplane, how you should pack it, what to do with it at security….you get the point.  Earlier, Peter told you about TSA’s preferences for certain kinds of bags over others. 

Now, some companies are starting to go another step, designing bags specifically for carrying your laptop through airport security.  We first reported on the phenomenon with Skooba Designs’ Checkthrough Bag.   Now, Travelon has become the latest to join the fray. 

The new designs come in response to the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) call for manufacturer product submissions that will streamline security procedures. In an effort to speed up the process and better protect laptops, as of August 16, 2008, travelers will not be asked to remove their device for X-ray screening if cases produce a clear view of the laptop, according to TSA. Three Travelon designs have been approved to meet these new security inspection procedures.

That sounds pretty good to me.  There are three different bags: a backpack, briefcase, and wheeled computer bag.  Each contains a removable separate compartment, which allows you to quickly and easily remove the laptop without opening the entire bag.  These bags range in price from $110 to $190, and are all expected to be available in September.

Of course, not all of you are looking for a new bag.  Personally, I really like my current backpack.   But it would be nice if there was just a better way to protect your laptop from damage while going through security.  For those situations, Travelon will offer three different laptop sleeves, all of which are made from the same material as wetsuits, in order to ensure the tightest possible fit on all laptops.  These sleeves range in price from $30 to $45. 

For more information about Travelon and its products, visit www.travelonbags.com.  For more information about the new TSA criteria, please visit www.tsa.gov.

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Watch your bags if you’re travelling!

Posted by: Peter Murphy on Aug 17 2008 - 24 views

You wouldn’t think it, but some bags are a hindrance to the TSA. In the past we’ve highlighted some of the more, might I say it, unusual actions the TSA have taken with mobile tech carry ons. The responses to the ever tightening security procedures have even produced gear to alleviate the recognition problems some TSA officials have with the x-ray unit.

What I can’t see here, is the difference between a butterfly style, tri – fold style bag, and the accordion and backpack style bags. They all layer up your gear don’t they? Yet at least one of them is more convenient to carry. Anyway, you’ve been warned!

Via Engadget

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