Case by Case: Security-Friendly Laptop Bags

Last March, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) encouraged bag manufacturers to design computer cases that would enable them to X-ray laptops without the clutter of all the extra cords and plugs. According to an article in USA Today, the TSA received more than 50 proposals - many of which resemble clam shells. These cases allow one side of the bag to contain papers, cords, etc., while the other side holds the laptop. At the security checkpoint, you would simply unzip and unfold the case and lay it flat on the X-ray belt.

Now, CNN.com indicates that about a dozen manufacturers are currently advertising security checkpoint-friendly laptop bags, many of which are "deceptively simple." If you're a frequent flyer who's tired of carting your laptop through airport-security checkpoints, here are some important aspects to consider:

Overview of Security-Friendly Laptop Bags

While the TSA doesn't approve or endorse any particular bag design, they have outlined very specific requirements, which include that:

• Each bag must have a laptop-only section.
• The laptop-only section must completely unfold and lay flat in order to go through the X-ray machine.
• No metal clips, zippers or buckles can be inside or outside the laptop-only section.
• There can be no pockets on the inside or outside of the laptop-only section.
• Nothing but the laptop can be stored in the laptop-only section.

While this last requirement may seem obvious (After all, why would it be called "laptop-only?"), it's actually not. In fact, you would be surprised at how many people pack their laptop in its proper place and then stuff peripheral items on top.

According to Computerworld, there are three basic security-friendly laptop bag designs: "zippered clamshells that open flat with your laptop on one side and everything else on the other; double- or triple-compartment bags that unfold and lie flat like a garment bag with the laptop on one side; and simple notebook sleeves that either fit into a larger bag (in which case, you'll need to take the sleeve out for scanning) or are carried alone. Many existing sleeves meet these criteria, as long as they don't have pockets or metal parts on the sides."

Buyer's Guide

Bear in mind that while many manufacturers have developed security-friendly laptop bags, there is nothing that requires you to go out and buy a new one. The bag you currently own may meet guidelines, or you may want to purchase an inexpensive sleeve and carry your laptop inside it. At the security checkpoint, you can remove your laptop from the sleeve and place it on the X-ray belt next to your bag.

And, even if you do purchase a new security-friendly bag, there's no guarantee that you won't have to remove your laptop from the bag. The TSA always reserves the right to examine your items, and if the X-ray view of your laptop bag isn't clear enough, they will likely exercise it.

If you would like more information about specific security-friendly laptop bags, Computerworld has reviewed eight that are currently on the market and range in price from around $50 to more than $200.