How To Save Time When You Travel

The Transportation Security Administration has actually done something right! They’ve approved a new laptop bag which will allow laptop owners to run computers through security without the extra step of removing it from the bag. The T.S.A. will allow the new cases as soon as they’re available on the market. Being developed by Targus and Pathfinder Luggage, both companies estimate these cases will be available in September or October.

According to an article in the NY Times, “the new cases include either a fold-down section in a bigger briefcase or a stand-alone protective sleeve that contains no extra clutter and can be readily viewed through the scanner.” This maybe helpful to the 70% of business travelers who feel rushed when trying to catch their flight or to the 60% of travelers who worry that security checkpoints will prevent them from boarding their flight on time.

I know I fall into the category of Americans who travel with their laptops, which according to a recent survey is nearly 25% of all airline passengers. I’ve always been concerned about the damage possible to my laptop when putting it on a moving conveyor belt or when the bin is pushed on its side because the subsequent luggage rams into the bins that have backed-up because people were trying to put their shoes back on. That’s another time waster I can’t bother with in this post!

I’ve also feared my laptop might walk off if I’ve been held up by the T.S.A for another scanning or pat-down. According to a recent survey by Ponemon Institute, I should be worried! Business travelers loose more then 12,000 laptops a week! Yes, 12,000! LAX leads the pack, averaging 1200 lost or stolen laptops weekly. Here in Washington, DC, DCA travelers average 450 lost laptops weekly and at Dulles more than 400 disappear each week.

With these new laptop bags, hopefully travelers will feel less rushed and be more aware of their belongings, since 40% of the lost computers occur at security checkpoints. The bags will have a retail price around $39 for a backpack style up to more than $200 for a rolling case. Either way, the function will be the same – protect your laptop and save time by not having to remove it from the bag. Now, if you truly want to save time, buy Clear, the only government-approved screening process. The company estimates you’ll spend no more then 14 seconds in line at airport security. If I traveled more often, I would happily pay the $128 annual fee for this fast pass.

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