For me, however, the biggest benefit was that I wasn't worried about my Air during the X-ray process. Normally, I'd be concerned that the laptop might get scratched or, even worse, taken by mistake or stolen. Leaving the computer in a protective bag is a plus for a worrier like me.

There were some downsides, however. The Aerovation bag lacks a strap that can be placed over the telescoping handle of a wheeled bag. By comparison, more expensive bags like the CODi Phantom CT3 Checkpoint Tested Laptop Bag ($200) and the Tom Bihn Checkpoint Flyer Briefcase ($220) offer such straps. The ability to easily attach a laptop bag to a wheeled bag's telescoping handle is a feature I always look for. And though the Aerovation bag appears to be reasonably well constructed, its large yellow logo won't win any style awards.

To Buy or not to Buy?

Is the Aerovation bag worth $130? It depends.

If you need a new laptop bag, you're a frequent flier, and you don't want to spend a lot of money, the answer is yes.

Whatever your needs, though, you should at least consider other options before buying the Aerovation bag:

Mobile Computing News, Reviews, & Tips

Cool Laptop Accessories: Feeling the need to accessorize? One laptop add-on we recommend is Kensington's ComboSaver Combination Portable Notebook Lock ($25). The lock's cable coils up to just a few inches but can stretch to 6 feet. And instead of an easily lost key, it has a four-barrel combination lock. The total weight is half a pound. Read "Maximize Your Laptop With Cool Accessories" for more gear.

Are Mini-Notebooks Here to Stay? Skeptics are wondering if ultra-light, small notebooks like the Asus Eee PC are anything more than old technology in new packaging. Given the spotty success of previous mini-notebooks, could the current generation be simply a flash in the pan?

Mobile Life Guide: Check out our free PDF guide to laptops, accessories, remote access, and wireless devices. The guide also includes links to special videos from the PC World Test Center.

Contributing Editor James A. Martin offers tools, tips, and product recommendations to help you make the most of computing on the go. Martin is also author of the Traveler 2.0 blog. Sign up to have the Mobile Computing Newsletter e-mailed to you each week.

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Is there a particularly cool mobile computing product or service I've missed? Got a spare story idea in your back pocket? Tell me about it. However, I regret that I'm unable to respond to tech-support questions, due to the volume of e-mail I receive.