Matthew Olivolo February 18th, 2010

Heavy scrutiny of passengers makes for longer security checks

By Michelle Higgins – New York Times

Since the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) began tightening security in response to the Christmas Day bombing plot on a flight to Detroit, travelers have faced increasingly rigorous screenings at airports. They’ve been forced to cope with extra bag checks, closer scrutiny of their identification, and full body pat-downs for children as well as adults.

The new measures come on top of the already arduous process familiar to any regular traveler: the ritual offering up of shoes, jackets, belts, watches, laptops, cell phones and keys. But it’s the inconsistencies in the security measures — from country to country, airline to airline and airport to airport — that have left many passengers exasperated and confused. Some say they have encountered the usual routine, while others tell of undergoing multiple screenings at various stages of the itinerary, mostly on international flights bound for the United States.

More changes are expected to come to airports around the world as governments explore new security technology, including the much debated full-body scanners, which will soon be used in more American airports. Passengers traveling within the United States may notice an increase in random screenings, behavior detection officers who look for signs that passengers may be hiding something, and a wider use of tools like explosives trace detection devices, not just at the checkpoint but throughout the airport.

For passengers, all of this means coping with an onerous, shifting security routine fraught with privacy concerns. But travelers are a resilient bunch and many are already adapting to the new realities. Here are a number of things you can do to navigate the new measures.

Pack carefully
Innocent items can appear to be potential threats on an X-ray image, simply by the way they’re packed. Tying up loose headphones and cell phone cords so your luggage doesn’t look like an ominous jumble of wires can help expedite screening, for instance.

Use a special laptop bag
These “checkpoint friendly” bags provide a clear and unobstructed X-ray image of the laptop, allowing travelers to keep the computers in their cases at airport security checkpoints. This eliminates the hassle of having to unpack the laptop, place it in a bin and repack it at the end of the conveyor belt.

Mobile Edge offers a huge collection of TSA compliant Checkpoint Friendly Laptop Bags they call their ScanFast Collection. They offer the largest selection of security approved laptop cases on the market for both men and women travelers.

Follow the rules

It may sound simple, but anyone who has been to an airport recently knows how frequently this point is overlooked. Shoes must be placed on the X-ray belt, as opposed to in a bin, to help security officers get a good look at them. Liquids, aerosols or gels must be packed in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces in one clear, quart-sized zip-top bag. A list of prohibited items is at www.tsa.gov/travelers.

To read the full story click here.

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Matthew Olivolo January 26th, 2010

Ten tips to make your trip through the airport security checkpoint easier on everyone

By Scott Carmichael, Gadling Travel Editor

Flying can be a stressful way to spend your day, especially if you only fly once or twice a year. Reports of terror attempts and airport evacuations don’t make things any better. Thankfully, if you follow some simple tips, your trip through the checkpoint can be really simple, allowing you more time to enjoy the dreadful airport food, or to waste your money at the airport duty free shop.

We’ve gathered ten tips that can make your checkpoint experience as stress-free as possible. Not just for you, but for the hundreds of others trying to make it to the other side of the checkpoint at the same time.

Are you an “amateur” traveler? Were you allowed to carry box cutters and knives the last time you took a flight? Then chances are you are not up to date on the latest airport security rules. It is nothing to be ashamed of. In fact, a prepared traveler is a rare breed, so consider yourself lucky that you are showing an interest in it.

The best starting point (other than this article) is of course the TSA web site. Their “what to know before you go” has the nitty-gritty on airport security, prohibited items and of course their own tips on getting through security as efficiently as possible.

Invest in a Checkpoint Friendly Laptop Bag

If you regularly pass through the checkpoint with a laptop, do yourself a favor and invest in a checkpoint friendly laptop bag. These bags are specially designed to fold open, allowing the x-ray machine a clear unobstructed view of your computer. They cost about 25% more than a normal laptop bag.

The advantage of a TSA friendly laptop bag is obvious – you don’t need to take your laptop out of its bag, greatly reducing the risk of damage. It also shaves about 30 seconds off your trip through the checkpoint. A good place to find a large assortment of checkpoint friendly bags is Mobile Edge. This company makes stylish bags for men and women, with bags starting at just $49.95.

Frisk *yourself*
Before you even think about stepping into the security line, frisk yourself. Really – run your hands up and down all your pockets, front and back. Remove anything metallic, and you’ll reduce the risk of missing that loose change or pocket knife. Don’t just assume the metal detector will find it for you.

Find the right line

Many airports have introduced separate TSA lanes for the different kind of traveler. The black or diamond lane is for the experienced traveler. These lanes won’t have as many staff members assisting you. The casual traveler lane may have someone helping point out the bins, and the family/medical liquid lane is where you’ll get the most help. Especially if you are traveling with kids, you’ll want to pick the green lane. Sadly, not all airports have adopted this system.

The lanes are not a contest – don’t worry if you need to go to the casual traveler lane, because picking the right lane will make life easier on you, and your fellow passengers.

To read the full article click here.

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Matthew Olivolo December 29th, 2009

Now is the time to invest in a TSA compliant Laptop Case. With all of the new screening procedures, being prepared when traveling is essential. A CNN report states that all Canadian flights entering the U.S. are now limiting what passengers carry-on. Luckily passengers are still able to carry-on laptop computers.

Click here to get a new ScanFast Laptop Case from Mobile Edge which are 100 percent TSA compliant. According to TSA officials, the ScanFast Collection of Checkpoint Friendly Laptop Bags are still approved to pass through airport screening checkpoints. Here is a CNN article regarding security restrictions.

(CNN) — Canada is immediately limiting carry-on items for flights to the United States in the aftermath of a failed terror attack on a Northwest Airlines flight.

“Effective immediately, U.S.-bound passengers are not allowed to bring carry-on bags into the cabin of the aircraft, with some exceptions,” said a statement from Transport Canada.

According to the agency, carry-ons will be limited to medication or medical devices, small purses, cameras, coats, infant-care items, laptop computers, containers carrying life-sustaining or special-needs items, musical instruments, or diplomatic or consular bags. Crutches, canes and walkers also are permitted.

“These measures are expected to be in place at least for several days,” Transport Canada said.

Click here to read the full CNN article.

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Matthew Olivolo December 22nd, 2009

Traveling with your laptop is not always the easiest thing to do, especially when passing through airport security checkpoints. Not only do you have to take off your shoes, jacket, belt, empty your pockets, take out your cell phone and wallet. It can be overwhelming the more items you have.

Well Mobile Edge has helped solve at least one of your your worries with their ScanFast Collection of Laptop bags that are Checkpoint Friendly. Now when traveling you no longer have to remove your laptop from your case when using one of these TSA compliant laptop cases.

The simple butterfly design makes it super easy to use. When passing through security checkpoints, simply unzip the laptop case all the way down on both sides, lay the bag flat and place it one the X-Ray belt as seen in the photo above. When you get to the other side of the security screening area, pick up your bag and away you go.

Of course you still have to put your shoes, belt and other items back on. However saving the hassle of not removing your laptop from your bag, priceless…

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Matthew Olivolo November 18th, 2009

I ran across this article today on Lifehacker.com about the upcoming travel season and the threat of acquiring the H1N1 Virus. With the holiday season fast approaching us, here are a few tips that me be worth adhering to.

By Sarah Rae Trover, Lifehacker Editor

Sure H1N1 is the trendy flu virus to have this year, but the idea of being sick through the holiday season isn’t all that appealing. If you’re flying the friendly skies over the holidays, try taking a few precautionary measures.

Before you bust out the hazmat suit while waiting for your connecting flight, consider following some of Forbes.com’s tips for helping you get through your holiday travels bug-free.

Before you take off, learn about current status of H1N1 at your destination and any other vaccines you might need. In addition, find out what resources might be available in the event of an emergency and who you could call. If you are going to a less developed country, talk to your doctor about bringing anti-viral drugs like Tamiflu.

Forbes continues to remind us that if you fly sick, there is the chance you will be quarantined at the airports in order to keep contamination down, so either put on your best face or try renting a car if heading home to see family is your main objective. Don’t forget, if you’re traveling and the area near you is out of liquid Tamiflu, you can always make your own from the tablet version.

To read the full article click here.

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Matthew Olivolo November 18th, 2009

Mobile Edge was one of the first laptop bag manufacturers to introduce TSA Compliant Laptop Bags to the market. TSA Officials tested the ScanFast Collection ensuring each case adhered to their guidelines. Mobile Edge now offers 13 different styles of ScanFast Laptop Bags designed for both men and women leading the category.

The ScanFast Laptop Bag Collection was designed to help move you through airport security checkpoints quicker. You no longer need to remove your laptop from your approved case. Simply unzip the bag all the way down on both sides of the bag and lay it flat on the X-Ray Belt. No need to use a gray bin. Once you go through the medal detector you are good to go. Simply pick up your bag and you are on your way.

Here is a short video which highlights the new TSA Guidelines and Mobile Edge ScanFast Cases.

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Matthew Olivolo October 7th, 2009

Traveling with your laptop is not always the easiest task. Not only can it be cumbersome to carry around, but it is a huge hassle to have to take out of your bag when passing through airport security checkpoints. Well, that problem is solved thanks to the new ScanFast Element Briefcase designed for women by women.

The new Mobile Edge ScanFast Element Briefcase has been tested by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officials and exceeds their guidelines to be considered Checkpoint Friendly.

Now when passing through airport security checkpoints you no longer need to remove your laptop from you bag. Simply unzip the laptop compartment and lay the case flat on the belt. There is no need to place it in the gray bin.

You still have to take off your shoes and belt, however this is one less step to worry about when traveling.

Plus, by leaving your laptop in your bag, it alleviates the threat of someone stealing your computer or forgetting it as more than 12,000 laptops are lost or stolen each week in airports across the country.

Did I mention how stylish this case is too? The ScanFast Element Briefcase comes in three color combinations, Pink Suede with Brown trim, Green Suede with Brown trim, and Brown suede with brown trim.

Travel Tip: When passing through airport security checkpoints, place your cell phone, wallet, purse etc. inside the Checkpoint Friendly Bag. This will help keep all of your personal belongings safe from potential thieves and will help you keep track of where everything is located.

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Matthew Olivolo September 9th, 2009

If you haven’t seen the TV Show Chuck on NBC you are missing out.

The show is about a computer geek who is catapulted into a new career as the government’s most vital secret agent.

The comical part of the show takes place inside a computer electronics store called Buy More Electronics. A perfect fit for Mobile Edge Laptop Bags.

Prominently displayed on a shelf directly across from the center of the set is a shelf filled with Mobile Edge Laptop Bags featuring our new ScanFast Element Briefcases for women in Pink Suede, Forest Green Suede and our popular Chocolate Suede. Other products featured are the ScanFast Men’s Briefcases, Sumo Laptop Purses in Red and Black, the distinctive Ultra V-Load Briefcases and two of our Hollywood Starlet Laptop Messenger Bags from the Maddie Powers Collection.

Product placement is great for brand recognition, and being affiliated with a popular TV Show like Chuck is a terrific opportunity to show viewers just how stylish Mobile Edge Laptop Bags really are. After all, Mobile Edge offers more than 300 different products all geared to be mobile with your electronics. Whether it’s a 17” MacBook Pro, a Dell 16” Inspiron or an ASUS 10.1” Netbook we have you covered.

Be sure to look out for Mobile Edge products on the upcoming season of Chuck starting soon on NBC.

Although the plot of the show is a little zany, it is great comedy with terrific actors.
Here is a brief recap of how this computer store “geeky” guy becomes a very popular man by government officials.

When Chuck opens an e-mail subliminally encoded with government secrets, he unwittingly downloads an entire server of sensitive data into his brain. Now, the fate of the world lies in the unlikely hands of a guy who works at a Buy More Electronics store. Instead of fighting computer viruses, he must now confront assassins and international terrorists.

With the government’s most precious secrets in Chuck’s head, Major John Casey (Adam Baldwin, “My Bodyguard”) of the National Security Agency resumes his responsibility of protecting Chuck. Casey’s partner is the CIA’s top agent (and Chuck’s dream girl), Sarah Walker (Yvonne Strahovski, “Gone”). They try to keep him safe by trading in his pocket protector for a bulletproof vest.

Chuck airs on NBC Monday nights. For more information about Chuck, click here.

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Matthew Olivolo August 24th, 2009

Making Business Travel (More) Eco-Friendly

By Greig Waddell, About.com

Refusing to travel altogether is one way to go green, but if you need to keep your job, traveling may be unavoidable. These green travel tips can help you reduce your carbon footprint while work.

Flying may be unavoidable in many instances, but there are things you can consider when it comes to air travel:
• Fly non-stop when possible; you’ll get there faster and reduce emissions.
• Will a train do? Use alternative modes of transportation whenever possible.
• Plan trips wisely; try to plan meetings back-to-back so you can take one flight to the furthest destination and then work your way back home.

2. Carry Green
From your carry-on bag to your toiletry kit and clothes, make eco-friendly purchases whenever possible. Some things to look for include:
• Naturally-occurring fibers (cotton, bamboo) – Mobile Edge Eco-Friendly Collection made with cotton canvas
• Toiletry items made from organic materials and without animal testing

3. Skip the Car Rental
If you can, skip the car rental altogether and take public transportation instead. Headed to the boonies? Other alternatives for cutting back on car emissions include sharing a car or renting hybrids.

4. Conserve on the Road
From recycling to carrying your own water bottle and switching off lights and electronics when not in use, pretend you are footing the bill for all of your energy use. You likely watch the thermostat and long showers at home, so don’t give up that thrifty spirit on the road. Some other ways to cut back:
• Hang up those towels; follow any hotel guidelines for conserving towel use.
• Don’t be wasteful; tote partially-used hotel toiletries home to the kids.

5. Support Green Companies
If you have a choice in where you stay and eat on the road, you can, at least, reduce your negative environmental impact. Support hotels, restaurants and local stores with green initiatives, such as:

Mobile Edge is proud to make Green products by introducing a new collection of Eco-Friendly Laptop Bags, constructed with natural cotton canvas. Additionally, the Research and Development Team are currently testing new materials that are use organic replenish-able materials. Click here to see the collection.

To read the full story click here.

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Matthew Olivolo July 10th, 2009

I was surfing the Internet for useful information for our valued customers when I came across this article regarding, what to look for when purchasing a new Laptop Bag from Earl Calvert of OnlyLaptopCarryingCases.com. There are a few important things to consider.

You have just purchased an expensive notebook computer. Now, it’s time to select a case for your computer when you are on the go. What do you look for when making a selection from all the laptop carrying cases on the market today?

Here are a few key things to consider when selecting that perfect laptop bag.

Your first consideration should be the protection of your investment. You have, no doubt, purchased your notebook because it allows you a high degree of mobility. You are not tied to a desktop PC. So when you are on the go, your notebook is exposed to lots of knocks and bumps.

Sometimes, these knocks and bumps are intense enough to cause serious damage either to the case or to the electronic components.
Therefore, you must determine whether the case you are thinking about is constructed of material that can protect your computer: Is there sufficient padding to withstand the blows it will inevitably take in a hustle and bustle world. Size is a factor here too. A case that is too small can expose your laptop to danger. Be sure your computer will fit comfortably into the case.

Your second consideration should focus on the extra storage required for your gear, files, and other digital equipment. If you act too hastily, you could be disappointed when you learn that you do not have room for your favorite mp3player when you have to travel. Think ahead about all the things you will potentially want to take with you in your computer bag.

Next, you will want to consider whether or not a particular carrying case is comfortable. Does the laptop backpack fit comfortably so you have freedom of movement or do the straps restrict your movement? Does the computer briefcase have a shoulder strap to free your hand? If the bag is not comfortable, you will tire easily from carrying a loaded case.

Finally, you need to consider the style that is best for you. Computer backpacks provide the most freedom while notebook briefcases look most professional. Portfolios provide good protection, but have limited space for extra gear or files. What about getting your laptop through airport security with little hassle? You won’t have to take your laptop out of a checkpoint-friendly bag.

If you consider these suggestions when deciding which laptop carrying case to buy, you are most likely to choose a case that meets your needs.

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