Can I bring a full sized tower PC onto an airplane as a carry-on without packing it?
I had driven down to Florida from Pennsylvania and brought my desktop with me as I built it, and wasn't gonna be down here for a month without it. Long story short, my transmission blew before I was supposed to head back, and now I've got a plane ticket to go back to PA tomorrow. Question is, what do I do with my desktop? I purchased a carry-on bag for my flight, but I have no luggage big enough to fit the tower into. I was just going to remove the sensitive hardware and place it in my clothes bag, then just wrap the PC in teflon or something, and put the semi-hollow tower itself in the overhead bin.
Will TSA give me dirty looks carrying an unpackaged desktop around the terminal?
Best Answer
I can't speak for TSA, but generally, I don't see why not.
Over the years I have flown with laptops (more than one at the same time), all kinds of components and even an IKVM without any problem.
A tower is not that different from a laptop. Just be sure there aren't any sharp parts that might be seen as dangerous. Also, be sure the tower is within the allowed size by the airline for carry-on luggage.
Having this said, you should have a plan B in case you're refused in security. At the limit, the decision is from the person doing security. I've seen things (not necessarily IT related) refused that were allowed to other persons. This makes me believe there is some kind of randomness in the process.
Tip: I would try to wrap the tower in some bubble plastic. It will work as protection and as a cushion to some trepidation in the airplane. Also create some kind of handle. It's not very confortable to transport a box like that.
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Can you take a computer tower as a carry-on?
The TSA doesn't have a problem with your PC. So in terms of security screening, there is nothing to stop you from packing a desktop computer case in either carry-on baggage or checked baggage.Can I hand carry my desktop in flight?
In general, you can bring a desktop computer as checkin baggage, even on international flights, but there is a risk of damage you should consider. They tend to be so commonplace of a device that are well-recognized and tend not to arouse suspicion.COMPUTER AS CARRY-ON CHALLENGE! - How to take any PC as hand luggage on the plane!
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