I do not mean to send this discussion off on another topic, but you asked about computer/briefcase type bags. I just bought the Briggs/Riley security case for my DH and it works most of the time. That is to say most TSA agents now know that if opened out flat and according to instructions DH does not have to take his computer out of the case. This saves huge wear/tear issues not to mention the stress of pulling the computer out and slamming into a plastic bin! It was a little pricey, but we have both been very happy with it. Like Swissaire, anything needed on the flight comes out of my "second bag" a medium sized quilty! Here is the model:
http://www.briggs-riley.com/category...C&sec=business