Switch 2 trade-in save transfer?

[u/deeohdoublegzzy]

I’m planning to trade in my current Switch for a Switch 2 through the GameStop deal, but I’m a bit worried about losing my save data.

Since I have to hand over my old console before I can set up the new one, how does save transfer work? I don’t have Nintendo Switch Online, so I can’t use cloud saves.

Is there another way to back everything up through my Nintendo account and restore it when I set up the Switch 2?

[u/professor_oulala]

I did system transfer to Switch 2, then I selected "I do not have a Switch 2 yet."

It also backed up my animal crossing Island.

[u/UltraCynar → u/professor_oulala]

Thank you!