Gang,

This is my very first post on this site.

I intentionally and happily checked a bag for the first time in years rather than forfeit about $200 of colognes, shampoos, and other "banned" items that were suddenly prohibited items of interest.

I've had baggage lost before and vowed NEVER to check again.

I flew USAir (it is permissible to identify carrier's, isn't it?) on a short 75 minute flight and found my bag in the baggage claim on my arrival. On the return flight a few days later, it was not. My luggage was "mishandled".

When I was finally reunited with my luggage, about 24 hours later, I was outraged to find that several items were *ahem* "removed" (>>stolen<<) from my luggage:

1 - 1GB 80x CompactFlash cartridge
1 - Mustache trimming set

Both were stored in zippered compartments and did not just "fall out". I'm not sure what the appeal of these items might be but wanted to caution my fellow travelers of a new threat as we contemplate checking bags.

Safe travels to you.