Bringing handheld consoles shouldn't be an issue, but you need to pack home systems carefully.

It's not uncommon to see someone at the airport playing a Nintendo Switch or other portable system, but what about bulkier home consoles? It's a great way to spend your down time while traveling, especially if you're going to be gone for a while. Not to mention, it's the only way to play Grand Theft Auto VI while you're away until the game eventually releases on PC.

The TSA enforces so many rules, often in a somewhat terrifying tone, so it's best to know ahead of time what the guidelines are around game systems. For both portable and home consoles, the general guidelines on what you can take and whether it can be in your checked or carry-on baggage will be the same everywhere due to national guidelines. Minutiae like whether it actually needs to come out of your bag, though, is more of a case-by-case basis depending on your flight situation.

Once you know the rules, and apply a healthy dose of common sense when it comes to keeping your console safe, you'll be ready to travel.

If you're bringing a gaming handheld like a Nintendo Switch 2 or Steam Deck with you, chances are it uses a lithium-ion battery . That is, unless you're bringing something retro like a Game Boy that utilizes disposable alkaline batteries. According to TSA regulations, all devices that utilize lithium-ion batteries need to be stored in your carry-on baggage due to the risk of thermal runaway, which is when lithium-ion batteries uncontrollably overheat and can potentially start a fire.

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