reportfurther
2nd January 2002, 05:49
Many people hassled by the increased security checks and long waits at airports are buying new easy-to-search luggage, and foam-padded seats that can be attached to the top of the suitcase, and some are simply sending their baggage by courier services.
New airport security rules adopted since the terrorist attacks mean that most check-in lines are longer and luggage searches are normal. Many travellers and also companies have responded creatively to the changed situation.
For example designers at some luggage companies have set to work on carry-on luggage that will be easy to search, devising ways to help people divide their luggage content into smaller sections. As well, the new luggage is designed with more see-through or mesh pockets so security personnel can easily see what is inside.
For long airport waits these same luggage companies sell a detachable cushioned seat, that travellers can put on top of a hard-case suitcase while they are waiting in lines.
Another luggage company, came out with the SFO Laptop Traveller, a US$650 carry-on that combines laptop and clothing carry-ons into one bag. It is designed to help the business traveller meet the Federal Aviation Administration's 'one-plus' rule, which limits each passenger to one carry-on bag and one personal item such as a briefcase or a purse.
To reduce the hassle of airport searches, some travellers have stopped carrying gifts and have opted for online purchases. Sales from websites such as Amazon.com, eBay, RedEnvelope and other retailers were expected to increase 15 per cent over last year to US$10 billion, in part because of the wrapped gift rule.
Some travellers are choosing not to even take their luggage to airports and check it in, opting instead to ship their luggage separately with Courier companies. Sending the luggage this way can cost more than US$100, but travellers say it is worth it. A cheaper alternative is to ship your luggage, and both UPS and FedEx say they were now shipping more luggage.
New airport security rules adopted since the terrorist attacks mean that most check-in lines are longer and luggage searches are normal. Many travellers and also companies have responded creatively to the changed situation.
For example designers at some luggage companies have set to work on carry-on luggage that will be easy to search, devising ways to help people divide their luggage content into smaller sections. As well, the new luggage is designed with more see-through or mesh pockets so security personnel can easily see what is inside.
For long airport waits these same luggage companies sell a detachable cushioned seat, that travellers can put on top of a hard-case suitcase while they are waiting in lines.
Another luggage company, came out with the SFO Laptop Traveller, a US$650 carry-on that combines laptop and clothing carry-ons into one bag. It is designed to help the business traveller meet the Federal Aviation Administration's 'one-plus' rule, which limits each passenger to one carry-on bag and one personal item such as a briefcase or a purse.
To reduce the hassle of airport searches, some travellers have stopped carrying gifts and have opted for online purchases. Sales from websites such as Amazon.com, eBay, RedEnvelope and other retailers were expected to increase 15 per cent over last year to US$10 billion, in part because of the wrapped gift rule.
Some travellers are choosing not to even take their luggage to airports and check it in, opting instead to ship their luggage separately with Courier companies. Sending the luggage this way can cost more than US$100, but travellers say it is worth it. A cheaper alternative is to ship your luggage, and both UPS and FedEx say they were now shipping more luggage.