Can You Bring a Nintendo Switch on a Plane?

Seeing you here leads me to believe that you’re not too keen on using the in-flight entertainment options, which is why you’ve decided to bring your Nintendo Switch along with you.

But now, the question arises—can you bring a Nintendo Switch on a plane? And, more importantly, can you use it?

Fortunately, you can bring a Nintendo Switch along with you on a plane in your carry-on and use it too.  However, you won’t be able to play online games on your console, unless connected to the plane’s WIFI. So, it’s best to download or update your games before boarding your plane.

Also, bear in mind that some airlines may ask you to stow away your Switch during takeoff and landing for safety reasons.

Now that you know that it’s possible for you to take your Switch along with you, let’s look at things you can do to make your travel (with your Switch) as smooth as possible.

What Are the Guidelines Related to Switch on a flight?

You should be allowed to use gaming consoles such as the Switch mid-flight without any interruption.

However, in regards to using them even during takeoff and landing, the regulations often vary according to the airlines. 

So, for more information about such matters, it’s better to contact the specific airline you’re flying with.

How to Get Through Security With Your Switch

According to airport security protocols, devices bigger than a cell phone must be kept in a separate container for security checks.

This means that full-sized gaming consoles, laptops, tablets, and portable gaming devices such as the Switch must be put into the security tray during security checks.

How to Get Your Switch to Last the Entire Duration of the Flight

If you’re on a long flight from New York to Singapore (18 hours 40 minutes) and planning to play non-stop, it’d be almost impossible for you to get your Switch battery to last without recharge. 

So, what are your options?

Well, many recommend carrying a docking kit along with you. 

I, for one, am against this idea as the Switch normally doesn’t quite jive with third-party docking kits and Nintendo hasn’t released a docking kit of its own.

Fortunately, there are a few options you can try.

You can either carry a USB C cable that will plug into any of the planes’ USB ports or get a battery pack that uses a USB C cable. 

You can also charge your Switch by plugging it into your laptop. Additionally, you can even consider getting a larger battery for your Switch.

However, with a larger battery, you need to keep in mind to screen it in security.

To ensure your battery lasts as long as possible, I’d recommend you play simpler, less power-consuming games. 

Also, remember to turn off your Switch in-between playing times.

What Should You Keep in Mind When Using Your Nintendo Switch?

There are a few things you should keep in mind when using your Nintendo Switch.

First of all, I’d recommend you carry a good pair of headphones so that you don’t miss out on the excellent sound experience of the game you’re playing.

Additionally, not only will a good headset drown out the noise of your neighboring passengers, but it’ll also enable you to become a more responsible flyer as your headset will restrict the noise produced by your console, thereby, allowing your fellow passengers to enjoy the flight that they, too, paid for.

You must also remember to put your Switch in airplane mode or flight mode. 

Doing so blocks all incoming calls and prevents your console from connecting to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS.

The airlines require you to do this because cell phone and Wi-Fi signals can often interfere with airplane GPS (navigation systems) and put your flight at risk.

If the airline offers Wi-Fi, they’ll allow you to connect to it once the plane reaches a cruising altitude.

If there’s no Wi-Fi available, you’ll have to use your Switch only in handheld mode. 

You won’t be able to play on the tabletop mode as the mode only works on a Wi-Fi connection.

Conclusion

Before concluding this piece, let me leave you with a quick recap.

So, yes, you’re allowed to bring small portable game consoles like the Nintendo Switch on a plane and use them.

Just ensure that your Switch is in flight mode during usage. Also, remember to take a USB C cord or battery charger with you to re-charge your Switch during long flights.

And, to enjoy your Switch games to their full potential, I’d recommend carrying a pair of headphones.