BUSINESS travellers can make maximum use of space under new hand-luggage rules by taking USB memory sticks rather than laptops on planes, according to the editor-in-chief of Business Traveller magazine.
USB memory sticks measure about 4cm by 0.5cm but can contain vast numbers of computer files. They can be plugged into almost any other computer, including at airport executive lounges or at business centres at hotels overseas.
For those wishing to travel without checking in baggage, not taking a laptop allows space for two days’ change of clothing (the average length of a business trip), says Tom Otley of Business Traveller.
Other tips include taking a BlackBerry, or similar device, a calculator-sized gadget with a mini-keyboard that allows people to keep up with e-mails within airport terminals, and to check in online if airlines permit this — Ryanair, easyJet, BA and Emirates, among many others, do.
Online check-in means that passengers can go straight through to security gates, so long as possessions fit within the new hand luggage limits.
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Otley said: “There’s nothing really problematical with travelling very light. People will get used to it.”