TSA laptop bag changes: Is yours checkpoint-friendly?
Do you have a “checkpoint friendly” laptop bag? As of Aug. 16, 2008, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows laptops to remain in their bags — but only certain kinds. I flew through San Francisco International Airport (SFO) Sunday and found a sign at the security gate already alerting travelers. Here’s what you need to know before crossing your next security checkpoint.
Laptop bags that are OK:
Basically, your laptop bag needs to be able to lie flat on the X-ray belt. All the security officers are trying to do is get a good look at your laptop and make sure the innards don’t have any irregularities. There can be no pockets inside or outside the laptop section or anything else in the laptop compartment besides the laptop that would obstruct a view. Butterfly and tri-fold-style bags work because you can isolate the laptop-only section for viewing.
Laptop bags that are not OK:
If you carry a backpack or an accordion-style bag, you might take this new ruling as an opportunity to go shopping. Bags with zippers, metal snaps, buckles inside or on top of the laptop-only section will not be permitted.
Caveat: TSA still retains the right to re-screen any laptop regardless of what bag it is in.
For me, I’ll probably continue to use the bag-within-a-bag approach. My 13-inch MacBook is light and easy to pull out of a purse, or padded laptop area within a bag that has room for all my power cords, camera, phone, and more. But I am happy that I don’t need to take off my new red crystal case that acts as a protective plastic sleeve.
– Jen Leo, Los Angeles Times Travel & Deal blogger
[Top photo: Jen Leo / For the Los Angeles Times; bottom image: TSA.gov]
4 Comments on “TSA laptop bag changes: Is yours checkpoint-friendly?”
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August 19th, 2008 at 10:54 am
Pathfinder Luggage has designed a bag that conforms to the Butterfly design suggested by the TSA. We are currenlty accepting preorders of the bag.
August 21st, 2008 at 4:41 pm
Please don’t forget LapStrap. As most of these $100 plus, “checkpoint friendly” laptop bags hit the market, do you really think that TSA will have all of its personnel trained? TSA has stated that it will not “approve” or “endorse” any one design or manufacturer, so how are thousands of TSA officers supposed to consistently identify all of these bags? I bet there are going to be some pretty upset people when they are asked to remove their laptop from what they thought was a “checkpoint friendly” bag.
For $25, LapStrap is an accessory that will work with or without your existing bag. LapStrap can stay attached to your laptop for quick handling. Whether you are in a security line, coffee shop, or off to your next meeting, LapStrap gives you the opportunity to decide if you need to carry your entire bag. Usually, your laptop and power cord are all you need.
Have you ever been asked to check your laptop bag planeside? Even with your new “checkpoint friendly” bag, you will be left carrying your laptop in your hands unless you have a LapStrap.
November 4th, 2008 at 3:57 am
as a regular traveller this is really good stuff thank you
November 4th, 2008 at 10:35 am
thank you for sharing — lets hope it works