Baggage

As we all know, airlines recently started charging to check bags.

Interestingly, I flew home last night and just as on the trip out, I was reprimanded about the number of carry-ons I was trying to smuggle through security. I admit that I normally have three carry-ons rather than the permitted "one carry-on and one personal item": my suitcase, my backpack with laptop in tow, and my purse. Until this trip, I have never been bothered by anybody about this; TSA, counter agents, flight attendants, they all let me pass in peace. I can easily fit the backpack and purse under the seat in front of me, so I have felt little guilt about cheating the rules a bit.

Now that they stand to make a profit from their vigilance, they are monitoring the security line more closely for bag counts. To be fair, both women who accosted me on this trip did suggest I place my purse inside my backpack, which I did. However, the motive seems clear to me....