I am interested in other people’s luck using checkpoint friendly bags. I bought one about 2 months ago and have taken 3 trips since then. I have gone through security 16 times in the US, Europe, & S.E. Asia and every time security insisted I take the computer out of the bag. On some occasions I told them the bag was checkpoint compliant as was told: “we want to see the computer” or “it must be taken out”.

Is it me? I know I am ugly but did not think I look like a terrorist.

If you have been using such a bag what is your experience?

I've had good luck using the checkpoint friendly feature inside the US every time I used it, I think. However, I had to take computer out in Brazil and Germany. In Germany, they even wanted my kids' Kindles taken out.

Yep, have to take out my iPad so it goes through the x-ray separately. They ask whether you have a computer, etc. Recently asked in Hong Kong, Singapore and Australia.

I don't have much luck using a supposed TSA compliant bag in the U.S. I no longer waste time trying overseas. Last Spring in Israel, they picked random people to turn on their devices. In Thailand and Spain I also got the special treatment, but then I'm Sephardic and look it and most people don't know the difference, so I don't worry about it.

One of the locations that made me take out my computer was Seattle. While I don't have a Tom Bihn bag I thought the Seattle was where he tested the concept. Maybe they only recognize TB's as TSA compliant ;-}.

In Australia, 90% of the time I have no problems leaving my laptop in it's sleeve case (no pockets, etc), but occasionally I get asked to remove it from the sleeve.