Will my brand new sealed laptop be opened for inspection in US airports?

I am getting mixed answers from the web..

I asked my parents to buy me a laptop while they are on a US trip. My mom told me if I would be okay with it being opened/unboxed for inspection in the airport.

is that really the case? What other problems might they encounter?

They have checked-in luggage, and I am not sure if storing it there would help.

Thanks!

Best Answer

(if it works like in any other international airport)

When going thru security, your parents will have to put the laptop in a separate bin to pass xray for security scan.

So have your parent unbox it before going to the airport and have them carry it like any other electronic device (also have the power cord with them)

At best it passes like gazillion other electronic devices in US airport every year; at worse they ask to open it and power it to make certain it is a real computer.

In general, it is unwise to put electronics in checked luggage (mostly in regards to theft).

Pictures about "Will my brand new sealed laptop be opened for inspection in US airports?"

Can you bring a brand new laptop on a plane?

Yes you can. Just run it through in it's own bin just like you would any other laptop. Unless you are asked to, don't remove it from the box.

Can I travel with a sealed laptop?

Laptops, phones etc. need to be placed in a plastic bin at security (in actually most if not all airports). You cannot leave them in a cardboard box. If security will accept if they are in a plastic wrapper, will depend on the security officer.

Do laptops get checked at airports?

The Transportation Security Administration requires that all laptops be taken out of carry-on bags and passed through scanners on their own. The rule allows screeners to get an unimpeded look at each computer, which might help them discern whether it contains hidden explosives.

Will TSA open a sealed box?

Re: Sealed boxes for check-on Also like a suitcase, TSA will open the box if they have concerns about something.

The Science of Airport Security

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