Joey Hadden/Insider
If you ever sit next to me on a flight, you won't see me with my nose in a book or staring at my phone. Instead, you'll catch me racing cartoons, battling bosses, and designing homes — all through my magnificent portable gaming system, the Nintendo Switch.
I grew up playing video games with my brother, and Nintendo has always been my favorite console. From Pokémon to the Mario Brothers, my Nintendo Switch gives me the comforting nostalgia of the characters I grew up on — now in high-definition.
I'll never forget when I bought Pokémon Snap for my Switch. The game where you take pictures of Pokémon was my absolute favorite when I had a Nintendo 64 back in 2000. I was fascinated by how much detail there was in the new game compared to the old one. And every time I play it, I'm reminded of my early childhood.
In March 2020, I traded in my portable Nintendo DS system for the Switch because, unlike the DS, the newer system could be used on a TV or on the go with the screen provided. Ever since then, I've never flown without my Switch.
As a travel reporter, I fly several times a year. And whether it's a quick domestic trip or an 8-hour international flight, getting lost in my video games makes time go by faster for me.
The large screen makes the Switch ideal for traveling, in my opinion. Not only does it help me feel more immersed in the game, but it also makes it easier for me to play through a flight without straining my eyes. I also think the Switch is convenient when I'm traveling with a buddy because the control sticks on both sides of the screen slide off and each one functions as its own controller.
My favorite games to play in the air are Mario Kart and Animal Crossing. Mario Kart drives me to get competitive, which is a fun way to kill time.
Animal Crossing is a much more relaxed game where you transform a remote island into a tourist hot spot. You spend your time on the island fishing, collecting fossils, and designing homes. Animal Crossing is ideal for when I'm feeling anxious during a flight. I typically play it when I'm flying internationally because it keeps me calm during a long flight.
Joey Hadden/Business Insider
When it comes to traveling with your Switch, I have a few tips.
First off, make sure you have a case for your console and the games. Many cases, like mine, have a smaller compartment that keeps the games secure.
I also recommend downloading the games onto your device rather than purchasing physical copies because it'll take up less space in your bag.
Lastly, keep your Nintendo at the top of your carry-on bag. This will make it easier to take out during security and fish out to play once on your flight.
Video games aren't for everyone, but if you're anything like me, I think it's worth packing a Switch for any flight you take.
