Playing games while on-the-go is a fun experience, but figuring out if you can bring your Nintendo Switch on a plane can be confusing.
If you wonder whether you can pack your Nintendo Switch, OLED Model Nintendo or Nintendo Switch Lite in your carry-on or checked bags, here is the scoop: you can take a Nintendo Switch on a plane in both carry-on and checked baggage.
However, you will need to remove any electronic devices like laptops, tablets, phones and Nintendo Switches from your bag at the security checkpoint for an extra security check.
Can You Take a Nintendo Switch Through TSA?
The Transportation Security Administration ( TSA ) regulates airport security; they screen passengers’ luggage to make sure that the airplane is safe and no dangerous items are brought on board.
They did mention on their website that full sized video game consoles like an Xbox or a Playstations are good to go through the security checkpoint.
But I wanted a more detailed answer.
Samantha asked the TSA on X (formerly Twitter ) about taking her Nintendo Switch in carry-on.
The @AskTSA team gave her the green light, but she will be required to remove the Nintendo Switch along with any electronic devices larger than a cell phone and place them in a separate bin for X-ray screening
@Cynthia asked the @AskTSA team if her brand new Nintendo Switch is allowed in carry on luggage.
The TSA customer service confirmed that gaming consoles are good to go in carry-on bags.
Just make your Nintendo Switch ready to reach to remove it from your carry-on bag for a separate screening.
Can I Take a Nintendo Switch In Carry-On Luggage?
You can bring any type of Nintendo Switches in your carry-on bag on most airlines.
Whether you are flying with Delta, JetBlue, American Airlines or United, there are also no limits to the number of Nintendo Switches you can bring in the cabin.
You can use this airlines luggage size and weight calculator to get your airline’s luggage size and weight for carry-on and checked baggage.
Can I Take a Nintendo Switch In Checked luggage?
Yes, they are allowed in checked luggage without any restrictions, however the main reason many passengers take their Nintendo Switch on flights is to play and pass time especially on long flights.
It is not a good idea to pack any electronics in a checked bag.
Place your Nintendo Switch inside your suitcase or personal item even if you don’t plan to fire it up.
As you know things don’t always go as planned, and there’s no guarantee that your checked bag will arrive on time, so don’t take the risk of losing your Switch.
In addition, the FAA does not like placing electronics with lithium batteries in checked baggage.
How To Travel With Your Nintendo Switch?
The best way to travel with a switch is to use a durable carrying case bag with special pockets so it can take all your switch accessories and games.
Also before you head to the airport check that your device is fully charged even if you know that your airplane will have power outlets.
Some airplanes have power outlets, you can use SeatGuru to know if your seat has a powder outlet, or bring a power bank with you.
Can You Use Your Nintendo Switch On a Flight?
Yes, of course you can enjoy and play with your Nintendo on your flight.
Just turn on airplane mode on your Nintendo switch, here is how to do it:
- Press and hold the HOME Button for at least one second to access Quick Settings.
- From the Quick Settings screen, select Airplane Mode, then press A to activate it. To deactivate it, press A again.
You can turn on Bluetooth while you are in airplane mode to use the controllers, you can read more on the Nintendo website .
Can You Charge Your Nintendo Switch On a Plane?
Most switches can be charged using a USB cable, you can just plug the USB cable in the outlet and plug the other part of the cable in your Nintendo Switch and voila.
As mentioned above, if the airline you are flying does not have the possibility to charge your device, you can take a power bank.
It is really helpful to always keep a power bank on your bag because most of the common ones are FAA approved.
Even if you don’t need it in your flight you will need it to charge your phone, iPad, computer or any other device anytime.
Always make sure you do not forget to take your or your son’s Nintendo Switch with you when you disembark from the airplane.
TIP
Traveling With Nintendo Switch On International Flights
When traveling abroad the rules of your destination country will apply.
There are no strict rules on Switches as they are safe and easy to scan, just ensure to take out your switch for your bag or inform the security officer that you have one inside your bag.
It is better to give a quick look to your destination country’s airport rules.
Do Nintendo Switches Have Lithium Batteries?
Yes, most Nintendo switches are equipped with rechargeable lithium batteries,
Even though switches have small lithium batteries the FAA and most airlines do not like taking several items in checked baggage.
Final Thoughts
You can take your Switch Oled, Joycons or any other type of Nintendo Switch on planes in both carry-on luggage and checked baggage.
The TSA agent will ask you to remove your Nintendo Switch from your bag and place it in a separated cabin for further inspection.
If you want to spend less time at the security checkpoint ensure that you organize your bag prior to your flight, make electronics accessible so you can easily reach them.
I don’t recommend placing your Nintendo Switch in checked luggage unless you don’t have any choice, If you do ensure that it is well protected and secured before handling your suitcase to the airline.
And finally, remember to charge your Nintendo Switch before your long flight, because you will need it.
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