Helping Hassled Flyers

By Sally B. Donnelly Sunday, Jul. 18, 2004

With summer at its peak, airplane cabins are full, airports are extremely busy, and security agencies are on high alert. No matter. An array of new gadgets and gizmos is on the market, aimed at helping passengers deal with the crowds, discomforts and security hassles. Alongside a good book and a pair of sunglasses, they might just become this season's hottest travel accessories—don't leave home without them.

• Knee Defenders
Devices fit on your tray table to keep the seat in front from reclining too much. $14.95

Style Watch: Rattan Revolution
Diversions: All Talk
Food: Season to Taste
Outdoors: Comfy Camping

• Searchalert
Locks allow security agents to open your luggage even if you have locked it. New twist: a green button turns red to let you know it has been searched. $7.99

• Cleansing the Air
The Air Supply wearable purifier claims to clean the air around you of pollutants. $125

• Mailing Home
When scissors, knives and other taboo items are confiscated, U.S. residents can send them home in MailBack padded envelopes. Shipping—and a pen—included. $6.95

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"Every time our telephones ring, we hope that it is them calling to tell us they've been released."
THE FAMILIES OF Shane Bauer, Sarah Shourd and Josh Fattal, the three hikers who were detained along the Iran-Iraq border in July; Iranian authorities announced on Monday that they are being charged with espionage
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