Security increased with bag search, luggage ban
SAN FRANCISCO Those attending this year’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas — the world’s largest trade show — will have their bags searched upon entering.
Prior to this year, attendees’ bags were not searched as they entered the 2.4-million-squarefoot show floor. They were also free to bring in as much as they could carry.
But “due to recent global tragedies,” new security procedures have been implemented, the Consumer Technology Association announced Dec. 17.
Attendees will be allowed to bring two bags, each smaller than 12 x 17 x 6, about the size of a somewhat large FedEx box. Exhibitors and media may receive specific exemptions.
More than 150,000 people are expected to attend CES this year during its Jan. 6-9 run.
To keep entrance lines as fast-moving as possible, the show is offering attendees tips.
To aid in the searches, attendees could consider using “clear bags (mesh, plastic, vinyl, etc.) to expedite this process.”
Given the popularity of backpacks among techies, CES also points out that “bags and backpacks with many pockets are not helpful. Pockets slow search times.”
Also new this year, attendees won’t be allowed to bring suitcases or rolling bags of any size into the official CES exhibit and conference areas.
That includes carry-ons, laptop and computer bags and rolling luggage carts.
That could result in more traffic and a major crunch at hotels on the show’s last day. Many attendees typically check out of their hotels and bring their luggage to the show, then leave from there to head to the airport.
This year, they’ll need to check their baggage with the hotel and return to pick it up before they go to the airport.