I've put my computer into my carryon suitcase, but I have a padded slipcase for it for extra protection. Remember, though, that you're going to have to haul it out at security -- and if you forget and they catch it on the X-ray, that's a one-way ticket to have a nice TSA person rifle through your underwear.
Me, I'd be inclined to put my (empty) purse inside my carryon suitcase and claim that the computer bag is my handbag. (I actually have a backpack for the iBook.) And was totally prepared if the airline decided to check the suitcase -- it helps to arrive early because they've not yet "filled up" the airplane.
I know from experience that if you put the computer into your checked luggage your suitcase WILL get searched and they don't bother to put stuff back in the order it came out.
However, if I'm travelling for business, my attitude towards the transit was that I was being "paid" for my time and that includes standing waiting for my luggage in the baggage claim. Also, since I generally needed to take more clothes for professional deportment, it was much easier to pack a big suitcase....
I'm paranoid about my luggage getting lost, which is why I'm anti-checking. I think I'm going to play around with various bags I have here -- my own laptop is the same size etc. as the work one, so I can see what it will fit into, etc.
Are they still being freaky about stuff you can bring on the plane? Lotions, etc.?
They relented, but only a little: [link]
Yeah, I have my quart-sized ziploc down to a science.
Mornings: they make me lose my will to live.
Chumley is taking advantage of my job-free, hanging around the house presence by sleeping on the desk next to my laptop. He had to be persuaded to not sleep on the keyboard....
Since we're talking about planes.... would a messenger bag (8 1/2" by 11" or so size) qualify as a handbag? Or will they get snippy with me if I try to carry it on the plane?
You won't have a problem with that.
I've put my computer into my carryon suitcase, but I have a padded slipcase for it for extra protection. Remember, though, that you're going to have to haul it out at security -- and if you forget and they catch it on the X-ray, that's a one-way ticket to have a nice TSA person rifle through your underwear.
I forgot my cell phone in my pocket when walking through the metal detector recently. Guess who got severely patted down? WTF? He wouldn't even let me have a second go through. And this is after I checked my small weekend bag because I didn't want to cope with the lotion/liquid restrictions.
For our trip to Hawaii, I'm going to go to the Aveda store and stock up on sample sizes.