Dear Colleagues!

We're just contemplating on how to improve our checkout - which is already partially enclosed.

With fully enclosed checkouts (e.g. ala Amazon), I often do get annoyed if I can't find my way out if I want to change my order. So I do wonder if it genuinely helps?

We probably all agree that we need to minimise distractions, but maybe we shouldn't kill all the links?

We're considering:
A. Leaving the main navigation (Categories) intact but maybe removing the search box form the header.
B. Removing everything, but the account links and links to Cart, T&C, Help, etc.
C. Remove virtually everything, but the links required for completing checkout, and a clearly visibly "Continue shopping" button, so people do know how to get back.

Finding the balance between reducing the distraction and not giving the customer the feeling that they are caged in is the tricky bit, I feel.
Any comments appreciated!