Flying with harddrives?

[Chris Shaeffer]

Happy new year, ever'body.

I usually fly with my harddrives in my carry on bag, but I cracked a rib over the holidays and would *love* to not have to carry arround a heavy bag on the trip home.

Anyone know if its OK to pack and pad the harddrives in luggage?

I was planning on wrapping them in clothes and making sure they were in the middle of the luggage- maximun padding, least chance of slipping.

Anyone know of any issues with this that I might need to be aware of?

Thanks!
Chris

 

[Marquis]

Well, for one, I personally wouldn't trust my important data to the luggage system since it's possible to lose luggage.

As for the drives themselves, they'll likely arrive without issues especially if they're well-wrapped in clothing. The non-operating shock that a drive can take is relatively high, and will never be seen unless the baggage weenies do something astoundingly egregious with your stuff.

If you do end up putting it in your luggage, I would urge you to ensure you have a good backup (or two) of everything (good advice even if you aren't transporting your HD for hundreds or thousands of miles).

 

[wrenhunter]

Checked baggage is subject to more intense scanning than stuff you carry on, specifically x-rays.

However, I don't really know what effect x-rays have on hard drives, if any. And HDD's are cheaper than ribs.

 

[Havoc]

I think the biggest problem with HD is Xray is what are they going to think about them . Better warn them of their presence. They are going to show up as a large black patch in the middle of your underwear