US embassy London - interview. Mobile phone?

[AnnoyedAtTSC 2]

I've seen 2 pieces of info on the US embassy website. One said no laptops:

http://photos.state.gov/libraries/unitedkingdom/164203/cons-visa/prohibited_items_2014.pdf

and another also says no mobile phones:

http://london.usembassy.gov/cons_new/visa/callcenter/security.html

What's the deal? Is one of these out of date?

I do quite need my phone and would rather not have to put it in storage unless i absolutely have to.

Is a regular backpack allowed too? Again, conflicting info.

Thanks

[LORIEandPHIL 123]

We had to drop our mobiles, and my car key fob off at the local chemist. you were not allowed to take these items in with you. that was two years ago, but I doubt anything has changed.

[AnnoyedAtTSC 2]

Thanks. Sigh.

What about a backpack? I gotta carry all my documents in something.

[Unidentified 2,930]

Generally at embassies it's no electronics and no backpacks. Small bags are fine but no backpacks. Maybe put the documents in a folder?

[AnnoyedAtTSC 2]

Can the storage places take a bag, or is it just small items like phones and keys? I can't spend the whole day in london with just a folder and papers.

[Unidentified 2,930]

At least in Stockholm it's small and only hold phones and small stuff.

[racheal&david 108]

I've read through the reviews and checked out the London embassy webpage. You can take in mobiles, tablets, small bags. Nothing bulky like laptops or tablet keyboards. I was at the embassy last year for my sons CRBA I had my handbag, mobile phone, keys and plenty other baby things including his pushchair and things and got through without having to leave anything in lockers. They appear to be far more lenient and less strict now.

[Wooderz 314]

I've read through the reviews and checked out the London embassy webpage. You can take in mobiles, tablets, small bags. Nothing bulky like laptops or tablet keyboards. I was at the embassy last year for my sons CRBA I had my handbag, mobile phone, keys and plenty other baby things including his pushchair and things and got through without having to leave anything in lockers. They appear to be far more lenient and less strict now.

Follow up to Racheal's post

http://london.usembassy.gov/visas_security.html watch the minute long video.

[TBoneTX 45,285]

*** Country-specific thread moved from K-1 Process forum to the UK regional forum. ***

[ChasUno 101]

I had my London Embassy interview on 20th July. Mobile's and tablets are fine to take in and use. Small bags are fine also. Your belongings go through a security scanner (similar to airport security) before you are allowed into the Embassy. Pretty sure average sized backpacks are fine also, just don't take in more than you actually need just to save from any potential issues. As long as you're prepared and have everything in order, the whole process seems to run smoothly and the interview is relatively easy for most.

Good luck!

[AnnoyedAtTSC 2]

Thanks people.

I ended up stashing a load of stuff at work and going without it overnight. I went as bare as i could to the embassy. Turns out all in vain as everyone else had backpacks, tablets, etc. Ha!

Still, approved! USA here i come!