Since a recent Ponemon Institute study revealed almost 12,000 laptops per week lost or stolen in US airports alone, and that the worst spot for loss/theft is the security checkpoint (no surprise there), it’s worth a tip at that very point.

I have to be careful, since I have previously recommended that folks not carry a laptop bag that is obviously a laptop bag at all–it screams “Laptop inside! Come steal me!”

But as you consider what your travel repertoire will include, take a look at the many “checkpoint friendly” cases out there. The TSA has now allowed certain models to go through the security checkpoint without having to be removed from the bag.

Click here for TSA’s regulations on what can pass right through, effective August 16, 2008.

Then, Google for some options. Here’s a sample Google query to get you started.

If you don’t have to stop, remove your laptop, reassemble your entire life’s set of personal effects on the other side, and scramble to your plane, you are much less likely to be one of the distracted victims of laptop theft/loss at the checkpoint. Using a fast, TSA-compliant laptop bag can help that.

If possible, also find a model that doesn’t look like a laptop bag at all! If you find one, let me know and I’ll include it here.