GO GADGETS: IN A BID to cut the horrendous security queues at US airports, the Transportation Security Administration developed guidelines for laptop bags, so computers don't have to be pulled out and put in a tray to go through an X-ray machine.
Mobile Edge is one of the quickest to respond, with its TSA-approved ScanFast range of bags featuring clamshell opening for quick scanning and pockets that are separated from the laptop pouch to allow for simpler X-rays. (www.mobileedge.com, prices starting at €50).
Let's hope aviation authorities continue this novel journey into assisting travellers and abandon their ridiculous rules about carry-on liquids.
For campers rather than flyers, the alcohol- burning stoves of the Swedish company Trangia are legendary because they're simple, durable and cheap to run, as they burn methylated spirits instead of gas. A brass burner that heats up an aluminium billy sheltered by two interlocking windshields will boil a litre of water in about 11 minutes, which isn't as fast as gas but is much less hassle.
The slightly larger 25-series is a better bet for larger groups, with 1.75- and 1.5-litre saucepans, as well as a 0.9-litre kettle weighing just over 1kg (€79.95, www.greatoutdoors.ie).
The mini-Trangia backpacking stove (€29.95, Great Outdoors) is about half the size and weight, with one 0.8-litre pot suitable for one or two hillwalkers. As with the bigger model, the burn temperature is adjusted with a fiddly brass ring. It takes a while to learn the knack of throwing the adjustable ring on to the burner.
aharvey@irish-times.ie