Xbox in checked luggage

[Jack_OC]

Does anyone have any advice on the wisdom (or otherwise) of travelling with a brand new (still in original packaging) Xbox in checked luggage? We will be travelling to Europe with QF and QR (transiting in SIN and DOH).

Background is we're going away for Christmas and this is a Christmas present for one of my kids. I realise keeping it hand luggage wold be safer, but I assume it would have to come out when going through security, in which case the kids would see it, so that's not really an option.

As far as I can tell, there is no rule against having electronic devices such as this in checked luggage. However, many people advise against checking in anything that might be stolen. There is of course also the risk of it being damaged. I also read something saying that bags containing electronics are likely to be manually searched, so is there a risk that it would be removed from the packaging and then left loose in the bag?

Any thoughts/experience appreciated.

 

[Robert K]

that's a big box to lug to Europe just to lug back (I assume you're based in australia). Will it even get used in Europe? I guess it comes down to how lucky you feel.

But if it were me, I'd just take the empty box there, so they have something to open on Christmas Day.
Why take them to Europe only to have them play video games.

 

[justinbrett]

The original packaging should be enough to keep it from being damaged, if it’s nestled inside a suitcase (pack it so it can’t be moved).

In order to reduce the chances of your bag being searched, don’t put any liquids in the bag (I often bring home a lot of alcohol so do the reverse of ensuring I have no electronics in the bag). It’s not foolproof, they may still search your bag but it should greatly reduce the chance. Liquids + Electronics = Suspect.

The chances of it getting stolen in transit if placed inside a suitcase is so remote it’s not worth thinking about.

Also you might be able to get your GST refunded.

 

[Jack_OC]

The original packaging should be enough to keep it from being damaged, if it’s nestled inside a suitcase (pack it so it can’t be moved).

In order to reduce the chances of your bag being searched, don’t put any liquids in the bag (I often bring home a lot of alcohol so do the reverse of ensuring I have no electronics in the bag). It’s not foolproof, they may still search your bag but it should greatly reduce the chance. Liquids + Electronics = Suspect.

The chances of it getting stolen in transit if placed inside a suitcase is so remote it’s not worth thinking about.

Also you might be able to get your GST refunded.

Thanks - that’s reassuring, and good tip re liquids + electronics, I hadn’t thought of that.

Re GST refund, I don’t think that will be an option as “you must wear or carry the goods as hand luggage with you, unless the goods are oversized goods or liquids, aerosols and gels restricted to hold luggage for security reasons.” That’s fine though, if I can it over there without being damaged I’ll be happy.

 

[justinbrett]

Thanks - that’s reassuring, and good tip re liquids + electronics, I hadn’t thought of that.

Re GST refund, I don’t think that will be an option as “you must wear or carry the goods as hand luggage with you, unless the goods are oversized goods or liquids, aerosols and gels restricted to hold luggage for security reasons.” That’s fine though, if I can it over there without being damaged I’ll be happy.

You can only ask. I’d argue it’s oversized. Those things are heavy.