Great post Mike.

Most theft is opportunistic, the thief walks past and casually picks up you stuff, no-one notices because these people are professionals and do not stand out. As Mike said they make themselves look like they fit in.

I use a daysafe 200 when I travel, it allows me to lock my stuff in the room and secure my stuff when I'm actually travelling. I carry more than just a laptop though so I wanted something more than just a kensington cable.

I've had an entire bag stolen, containing camera, pda, cash and other misc items so I'm particularly aware that it happens.