[tristanj]

This sounds cool when you are the one doing all the talking, but when the border agent asks a simple question such as,

Do you have personal data on this device?

and you answer No (when you really do), then you're looking at 5 years in prison under §1001(a)(2). https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Making_false_statements

[vinceguidry]

You'd have to give them a reason to arrest and charge you first.

[bigbugbag]

You are at the US border asking for entry, unless you're a US citizen you basically have no rights and gave them a reason to arrest you.

[vinceguidry]

They don't just arrest everybody with no rights.

[raarts]

What if it's empty?

[tristanj]

Then you can answer in a way that doesn't violate §1001(a). Honestly though, I don't think the scheme is smart in the first place because it can put you in trouble if authorities question you.

A much better method I have heard is to ship your electronics beforehand, travel with only a burner cellphone, then pick up the electronics after you arrive. Repeat when traveling out of the country.

[rocho]

But then you have a huge problem if the shipment is damaged or delayed. I think the best way is to upload encrypted data somewhere and retrieve it after entering the country.

[drvdevd]

I think this is probably correct. But I would be sure to encrypt my device before mailing it too.