In response to airport searches: Last year when leaving Brussels, I was called on the intercom to the counter, where I was escorted to a lower level to open my case. It seems I had forgotten about the CO2 cartridges I had been using for inflating my tires during road repairs, which showed up in a x-ray. They were very courteous and polite. Unfortunately, I don't believe this type of treatment can be taken for granted. Keep your expectations low.

Mac