There’s growing concern of potential terrorist explosives built into portable computers. To protect westbound flights, the Department of Homeland Security now requires that laptop-size computers must be inspected and checked with baggage.

This adds to the ban already in place for flights to the USA from airports in North Africa and the Middle East. Therefore, if you’re planning to use a computer when returning from European flights, bring along a smartphone with all the features necessary for work or play. Or if you’re really old-fashioned, a good book and/or several print magazines.