Ugh!! How Can I Travel with an Espresso Machine?
 

I have an extra krupps espresso machine (very low end, just one button feature, all comes in one piece except for the turning closure lid) that I want to bring to my friend when I visit London. It is used and does not have the original box. It weighs only about 5-8 pounds at most.

To ship this would cost 30 bucks.....I am considering doing it as a carry on, but figure that it might look somewhat odd to the security screeners and get confiscated.

How would one go about traveling with such an item or would it be best to just try and buy my friend an espresso machine in London? Although that also sounds a bit too pricey as well.

Maybe no espresso for my friend afterall?

You COULD pack it or take it as a carryon. But is it the correct voltage for the UK?? I doubt it

I've carried an espresso machine thru security in my carry-on baggage and didn't have any problem.

I'd guess your "low end" machine is not dual voltage. If so, it would only make a good door stop in the UK.

Yea, but what a great doorstop!

Right, Neopolitan. As soon as ilovetotravel29's friend plugs it in, assuming she has a plug converter, the thing will start sparking and burn up on UK's 220 volts.

As others have mentioned will the electric work in the UK?

If yes, I'd pack it into your checked luggage seems easiest.

"As soon as ilovetotravel29's friend plugs it in, assuming she has a plug converter, the thing will start sparking and burn up on UK's 220 volts." - and this will help you both to celebrate the 4th of July so you won't get homesick.

A step down converter, allowing US gadgets to run on our power suppply, costs about £15 practically anywhere on the Tottenham Court Rd. Probably less on the web, but the postage is probably as much again.

If it's cheaper at a US shop, bring one with you.

Compared to the things most people bring onto planes, an espresso machine seems pretty pedestrian. Though it'll be fun proving to the security chap that it actually works.

Am I the only person who doesn't travel with my personal espresso machine? Maybe I should begin doing so. Does anyone know how to disconnect it from the shower?

the shower?

FainaAgain,

You sparkle.

I have the machine you are talking about and though they make nice gifts, they are available in London and probably worth the money to just buy there.

Give the machine to some poor American who misses the coffee they tried abroad! That is what I did!