Can I carry hard drives on a plane?

Carrying External Hard Drives on Planes: A Traveler’s Guide

Traveling with external hard drives is generally permitted on most airlines, at least as a checked bag. While there’s no universal, official “hard drive policy” published by major airlines, practical experience suggests that these devices are typically allowed as part of your checked luggage. I’ve personally transported two external drives on several flights without encountering any problems.

Important Considerations:

• Checked Baggage: External hard drives are most commonly carried as part of your checked baggage. They are not typically a prohibited item, like a weapon or explosive.
• Data Security: While you’re unlikely to have problems, it’s always advisable to take precautions to protect the data on your hard drives. Consider using a reliable hard drive enclosure and keeping a backup copy of your data.
• Airline Specific Regulations: While generally allowed, it’s always a good idea to check the specific baggage policies of the airline you’re flying with. This is especially true for budget airlines and those with a reputation for stricter regulations. Review the airline’s website for any relevant information.
• Security Screening: External drives are likely to be treated as standard electronic devices during security screening, requiring no special handling. Take care not to damage the drive during the screening process.
• Value: If your external hard drives are of high value, it might be prudent to include them in your list of checked items. If you are flying with valuable equipment you may wish to discuss this with the airline at the check-in desk.

Beyond the Basics:

While generally accepted, consider the following points for added peace of mind:

• Documentation: If you have concerns, consider writing down the serial numbers of your hard drives in a logbook or an easily accessible digital file. This may be helpful for insurance purposes.
• Insurance: Consider adding coverage for your devices to your travel insurance policy.

In summary: Carrying external hard drives on a plane is a relatively straightforward process. While not explicitly forbidden, always check the airline’s specific baggage policies, and remember basic precautions like securing your data and storing the drives safely. Personal experience and anecdotal evidence suggest that problems are rare, but it’s always wise to be prepared and proactive.