Padded, packable, organized: the Best Ski Bag for Travel to protect your skis and ski boots
November 8th, 2023
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If you’re chasing snow this winter, whether it’s a weekend trip or an overseas excursion, you’ll want the best ski travel bag that can transport your ski gear safely and efficiently.
We researched 14 of the top ski bags on the market, looking at specifications, materials, features, and reviews from everyday customers and outdoor media.
Then we tested them out for ourselves to find the best ski bags, roller bags, and hard case ski bags out there.
Ski edges are sharp, and a ski bag can protect seats and any other luggage in your vehicle from getting sliced.
Schlepping ski and snowboard gear through airports and transit terminals can be a hassle. But a good ski bag can make it much smoother while protecting your skis and other gear.
The author of this story is a lifelong skier with nearly a decade of experience testing outdoor gear professionally. Along with personal experience carrying skis to Alaska, Japan, and all over the western US, she also works at a small, local ski shop in Breckenridge, Colorado, where she helps skiers find the right gear.
After more than a year of testing, our reviews below will help you find the best ski bag for your needs.
Related: Best Gifts for Skiers
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Ski bags comparison table
SOURCE: Manufacturers
*We note any discounts we see on our Deals page, which is updated daily.
The winners
Best overall ski bag: Dakine Fall Line Ski Roller Bag
Material: polyester ripstop, made with bluesign-approved materials
Weight: 6 lbs. 3.2 oz
Fits: two pairs of skis, ski boots, and ski poles
Available sizes: 185cm or 200cm
Exterior pockets: 1 zippered
What we liked: excellent durability, reasonable price
What we didn’t like: not as many features as others
The Dakine Fall Line bag stood out as the best overall ski bag for its features, durability, and popularity among everyday customers. This ski and boot bag has all the space necessary for most travelers, with the capacity to carry two pairs of skis, plus plenty of room for poles, ski boots, and extra gear and ski apparel. These features come at a price that we think is very reasonable compared to similar bags on the market. We used this bag on road trips and far-flung ski trips across the Pacific, and it never failed us. Ultimately, the durability and reliability of this bag won it our top award as the best overall ski bag.
We tested this wheeled bag over multiple trips, including a road trip from Colorado to Alaska and back and a ski trip to Japan. Yet, the bag never failed us—even after being strapped to the top of a truck for thousands of miles through Canada and rolling through multiple airports and transit stations. Each wheel is high quality and survived baggage throws and time in the cargo. The wheels kept rolling, and the fabric and padding remained entirely intact.
The Fall Line is a roller ski travel bag with the capacity for two pairs of skis and boots, so you don't need a separate ski boot bag. It comes in two different options for length: 185cm, which will accommodate most skis, and 200cm for folks with longer skis. It’s made from a tough outer polyester ripstop fabric that resists abrasion and tears and has ample padding throughout the bag to keep your gear intact. There is one zippered external pocket for smaller gear items, like gloves or hats. The Fall Line also includes a removable, lightly padded boot bag that nestles inside the main compartment.
The Fall Line bag does lack some of the extra features of other bags we tested and considered, like a roll-top to adjust the length or additional straps and pockets. However, these features come at an added cost, and while they’re nice, they are not necessary for efficient and easy transport of ski gear.
For the vast majority of skiers, from beginner skiers to experts and guides, this travel bag will be an excellent companion on any ski adventure, whether far-flung or close to home. Dozens of 5-star customer reviews and recommendations from Ski Magazine and Gear Patrol back our testing. The Fall Line is our top choice for a ski travel bag with excellent durability, good features, and a reasonable price.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE DAKINE FALL LINE SKI ROLLER BAG
Best organized pockets ski bag: Dakine Boundary Ski Roller Bag
Material: polyester ripstop with water-repellent finish
Weight: 7.7lbs/9.9lbs
Fits: two pairs of alpine skis
Available sizes: 180cm/200cm
Additional pockets: two exterior, internal nesting boot bag, and gear bag
What we liked: durability, lots of features, nesting gear bags, compression straps
What we didn’t like: expensive
Whether you’ve got some big trips in the works or just need one bag that can do it all, the Dakine Boundary is the holy grail of ski bags. This roller bag cannot only carry two pairs of skis and poles but also save room for your boots, clothing like ski outerwear, and other gear like goggles, gloves or mittens, and ski socks with a well-organized combo of zippered pockets and nesting internal bags. Plus, like the more affordable Dakine Fall Line, this bag has supreme durability and can stand up to all your ski adventures, near and far.
The Boundary bag is made with a sturdy 600-denier polyester ripstop outer fabric, made with eco-friendly, bluesign-approved materials (the coated versions are made with 900-denier fabric for even more durability).
The inner lining of the main compartment and pockets is waterproof, so the bag won’t wet out when you load it up after a big powder day. It comes in 185 and 200-centimeter lengths.
What makes this bag stand out from others is its ability to carry so much gear efficiently. The main compartment has ample space for two pairs of skis and poles. Two removable bags nest into the main compartment: one for ski boots and another vented one for ski clothing like a ski jacket and ski pants. Two outer zippered pockets fit other small ski essentials like mittens, goggles, and more. Exterior compression straps cinch the bag down to keep your gear from flopping around inside the bag. The wheels on the bag roll smoothly without getting in the way.
The only downside to this bag is the ski lengths it can accommodate. While other bags have a feature that allows them to get longer or shorter based on the length of skis you’re carrying, this one does not. However, the 185-centimeter length bag is large enough to carry all but the longest pairs of alpine skis. And if you’re on the fence, the longer bag will fit long alpine skis when needed while having extra room for gear when you're carrying shorter skis.
Overall, this is a top-of-the-line bag with excellent features for skiers or snowboarders who want to splurge on their ski bag. It’s an REI bestseller with many happy customer reviews complimenting the spaciousness and durability of the bag. If you want one bag to carry it all and don’t mind spending a little extra cash, the Boundary is for you.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE DAKINE BOUNDARY SKI ROLLER BAG
Best packable ski bag: DB Snow roller
Material: PU-coated polyester
Weight: 6lbs
Fits: one pair of alpine skis
Available sizes: one size: 220cm, can roll smaller
Additional pockets: none
What we liked: sleek design, lightweight, recycled, and sustainable materials
What we didn’t like: less padding, no extra pockets
Many travelers prefer their luggage to be sleek and functional without adding extra bulk or unnecessary features. For those skiers, DB makes the Snow Roller. This bag can carry a single pair of skis, boots, and other small ski essentials. What makes this bag stand out is its design. It rolls up incredibly small when not in use, and you can easily adjust the bag’s length for multiple lengths of skis up to 220 centimeters. You can also attach other DB travel bags to the exterior for simpler gear hauling.
The durable outer synthetic fabric and inner foam padding of the Snow Roller are made with recycled and sustainable materials, so the production of the bag is less harmful to the environment (without sacrificing the quality of materials). The Hook-Up System on the front of the bag is one of the features we like most about it. Like a daisy chain of gear loops, metal hooks on the top of the bag clasp onto any gear loops, depending on the length of skis or amount of gear you’ve got inside. So if your skis are on the short side, you don’t have to lug around a bag longer than you need.
Weighing 6 pounds, this is the lightest roller bag we tested. It’s also the most packable. Other roller bags in this review fold into thirds, but still pack quite large. The DB Snow Roller, however, rolls up to be just a bit larger than a gallon jug, with the wheels still attached. This feature makes this an excellent bag for folks who are looking to save weight and space with their luggage.
While this bag does fit boots, it does not have a separate boot compartment or bag, like the Dakine Boundary. This is why this bag can compress so small when not in use. If features are the most important, consider our upgrade winner. But the DB Snow Roller is an excellent choice if you like to travel in a sleek style.
DB has recently changed its lineup of bags, but outdoor media like Gear Patrol have recommended other DB ski bag models based on design and durability. While this bag is on the spendier end of the spectrum, it’s a great-looking, highly functioning, and well-designed bag for shorter trips or minimalist travelers.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE DB SNOW ROLLER
Best ski hard case: Sportube Series 2 Roller
Material: high-density polyethylene hard case
Weight: 12 pounds
Fits: two pairs of alpine skis
Available sizes: one size: adjusts from 122 cm to 212 cm
Additional pockets: none
What we liked: durable and protective
What we didn’t like: no pockets or other gear organization
You'll want to consider a hard case if you’re looking for the utmost protection for your ski or snowboard gear when traveling. The Sportube Series 2 Roller is a roller hard case that can easily carry plenty of gear—two pairs of skis, two snowboards, or four nordic skis—at a reasonable price. For this reason, it is our top choice for a hard case for traveling with ski and snowboard gear.
The design of this case is simple. It is a plastic tube without extra compartments, but it has padding at each end to protect skis and boards. Wheels and two handles make it easy to carry, and the closure locks for added security.
While a hard case like this will add extra protection on the exterior for your ski gear, you will want to pack it carefully inside using ski straps and other accessories to ensure it isn’t tossed around inside the case. This case also does not have space for boots, so a separate bag will be necessary.
Overall, if you prefer a hard case for your skis or snowboards, this one will help safely get your skis to your snowy destination. Gear Patrol called the Sportube the best hard case, noting that this option is best for folks who plan to ship skis to their destination rather than carry them through the airport. We agree. This case is our winner for those who want a durable hard case for ski trips far and wide.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE SPORTUBE SERIES 2 ROLLER
Best affordable ski bag: Atomic Ski Bag
Material: PU-coated polyester
Weight: 2.1lbs
Fits: one pair of alpine skis
Available sizes: one size: up to 204cm
Additional pockets: none
What we liked: lightweight, affordable
What we didn’t like: not a roller, fewer features
A simple ski bag is all you need to schlep gear when traveling on a budget. Atomic’s ski bag is a practical and affordable option for packing one pair of skis. This ski bag offers more durability and protection for your gear than a ski sleeve on the lower end of the spectrum while still being a fraction of the price of more expensive ski bags. For these reasons, this is the best choice for skiers looking for an affordable way to travel with ski gear.
The Atomic Ski Bag is made with a durable and abrasion-resistant 500-denier polyester fabric. It has a PU coating on one end of the bag for a sleek look and added durability; it also has a waterproof lining on the bag's interior. One main bag compartment has space for one pair of skis and poles. The bag is lightly padded, with additional cushion around the bindings to help prevent skis from getting damaged in transit.
VIEW THE ATOMIC SKI BAG
An additional zipper allows the bag to expand, accommodating skis as large as 200 centimeters in length; when zipped up, the bag fits skis up to 175 centimeters. This bag is not a roller but can easily be carried in one of three ways: the handle at the top of the bag, the center handle, or the cross-body shoulder strap. Another feature we appreciate with this bag is the small vent at the top that allows moisture to escape from the bag instead of trapping melted snow inside.
We don’t feel that it’s lacking much for a bag at this price. While we prefer roller bags, those come at a much higher cost. Overall, this bag offers excellent value for the simple traveler on a budget. If you need to carry more than one pair of skis or prefer features like boot and clothing storage, other bags in this review will give you that, but they come at a price.
This bag offers a great bang for your buck and is our top affordable choice. It has more features than other bags at a similar price while remaining much cheaper than many higher-end bags. It is also a bestseller from Backcountry, with many customers seeking this option as affordable ski luggage.
Other ski bags we tested
Backcountry Double Snow Roller
Material: PU-coated polyester
Weight: 7 lbs 10 oz
Fits: (one or two pairs of skis): two pairs of alpine skis
Available sizes: 80 inches
Exterior pockets: 1 small zippered exterior
What we liked: good-looking and durable outer material, roll-top, nice features
What we didn’t like: exterior pocket is small, no specific boot storage
The design of the Backcountry Double Snow Roller is one of the first things that stuck out to us. The sleek PU-coated outer fabric looks nice and stands up to abrasion well. Plus, the roll-top design makes it easy to adjust this padded ski bag depending on the length of the skis you’re carrying.
Unlike other bags, the Backcountry Double Snow Roller also has an internal flap that sits between two pairs of skis, or your skis and other gear, for extra padding, which is a nice feature. It’s got decent pockets, too: one zippered external pocket and two large internal mesh pockets.
Ultimately, features like a removable boot and ski clothing bag won the Dakine Boundary our award. However, the Backcountry Double Snow Roller bag is also an excellent upgrade option for skiers who want a bag loaded with features. We also found that early in season, the Backcountry Double Snow Roller was easier to find than other ski bags, so availability despite impacted supply chains everywhere else is a huge advantage of this bag.
VIEW THE BACKCOUNTRY DOUBLE SNOW ROLLER
Patagonia Snow Roller
Material: 900-denier 100% post-consumer recycled polyester ripstop with TPU-film laminate
Weight: 10 lbs
Fits: two pairs of alpine skis
Available sizes: one size: 193cm
Additional pockets: one internal mesh pocket
What we liked: made with recycled materials, very well padded
What we didn’t like: expensive, lacks extra features, can’t fit long skis
Patagonia launched their first ski and snowboard bag, the Snow Roller for the 2023 season and it immediately sold out. This padded ski bag is made with material from recycled bags from their popular Black Hole line, meaning it’s both more sustainable and durable. We appreciate the durable fabric and padding in this bag, as well as the easy-rolling wheels. It fits most skis at 193 centimeters in length, with plenty of room left over for extra gear. However, at this price, other bags, like the Dakine Boundary, offer more features at a lower price point.
*The Patagonia Snowroller is out of stock at most retailers, but we’ll update this soon when we hear there are more available.
Material: 600D polyester
Weight: 3 lbs
Fits: (one or two pairs of skis): one pair of alpine skis
Available sizes: 205 cm
Exterior pockets: none
What we liked: lightweight, durable fabric
What we didn’t like: limited carrying capacity
The Thule Round Trip ski bag is a fairly simple sleeve with a few notable features that carries a single pair of alpine skis. It is well-padded to keep your gear safe in transit and has a couple of internal stuff sacks for carrying extra gear.
However, it is relatively expensive for what it is, about double the price of the Atomic Ski Bag without offering quite enough to justify that price. But, if budget is not a factor, this is an excellent bag for winter adventures.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE THULE ROUNDTRIP SKI BAG
What to look for in a ski bag
Size (length)
The most important thing to consider when purchasing a ski bag is the length you’ll need for your skis. The bag should be at least as long as your skis, ideally with a few centimeters extra for wiggle room. If you are on the fence between bag sizes, it is always better to opt for the larger size. Many ski bags also have adjustment options that accommodate shorter and longer skis. This feature is handy, especially if you use the bag for different lengths of skis.
Capacity
You’ll want to ensure that your bag has ample space for all the gear you’ll be carrying. Some bags have just enough room for a single pair of skis and poles, while others can carry multiple skis, boots, and other gear.
Consider how much you want to pack into that bag to help you decide which is best. If you need to bring two pairs of skis or travel with a partner, a double ski bag will be better than carrying two separate single ski bags. However, if you only need to bring one pair of skis for the trip, a single ski bag will be less bulky and more compact. If you don’t want to carry a separate bag for your boots, ensure your ski bag will have space for them.
Material
Most ski bags are made with a thick, abrasion-resistant synthetic (often nylon or PU) material. Many ski bags will also have padding; in our opinion, this is next to necessary for a good ski bag. Some brands utilize more sustainable materials than others, which is worth considering.
Soft case vs. hard case
Most skiers and snowboarders travel with a soft ski bag versus a hard case. While a hard case will almost always protect your gear while it’s in transit, they are not as easy to pack as regular ski bags. A hard case is probably the best option if you’re shipping skis or snowboards somewhere. But, if you’re lugging the gear around, a soft case ski bag will be easier to pack and have more organization and pockets for other gear and accessories. Many soft ski bags (and all of the ones in our review) have some sort of padding in them to help protect your gear, which is usually sufficient.
Padding
You want your ski bag not just to get your gear to one place but to get it there in one piece. Whether you're looking at a hard or soft case, look for padding. Hard cases will often have padding at the top and bottom to protect the tips and tails of your skis or snowboard, while soft ski bags will have padding throughout, often with a little extra for the bindings. While a simple non-padded sleeve will work in a pinch, it is much better to use a ski bag or hard case with padding. We didn't consider the most minimalist bags like the Dakine Padded Ski Sleeve because we think most skiers will want more protection for their gear.
Wheels
Whether or not you want a ski bag with wheels depends on both personal preference for rolling luggage and how and how much gear you’ll be carrying. If you’ve got a lot of gear, or if your skis are heavy, a roller bag will be easier to transport. A padded sleeve might be a better option if you only carry a single pair of nordic skis. If you have to do a good bit of traveling (airports, bus stations, etc.), a roller bag will probably make your life easier. However, if you know there are many stairs in your future, a rolling luggage bag may not be the best choice.
Handles and straps
The handles and straps on your ski bag are worth considering. If it’s a roller bag, it should have a sturdy handle at the top for transporting. But even roller bags have handles on both ends and in the center for easy moving and lifting. If your bag is not a roller, you will probably want a strap that can go over your shoulder to carry it more easily. Look for a padded shoulder strap and a compression strap to manage volume.
Additional pockets
Aside from the main compartment, additional pockets, whether interior or exterior, can help carry other ski equipment and accessories such as goggles, mittens or gloves, neck gaiters, backcountry safety gear, and more. These pockets will help keep everything organized while you’re traveling.
Boot Bag
Having a removable ski boot bag wasn't a make-it-or-break-it criterion for us, but when well-executed, it was a nice addition to the ski bags we tested. Many skiers will have a separate travel ski boot bag (different from regular ski backpacks) for transporting their boots. However, if you want to minimize your number of checked bags, we think a ski boot bag combo or a main ski bag with a removable ski boot bag is a good option. An example of a ski bag that does this well is our overall winner, the Dakine Fall Line.
Price
A ski boot bag isn't an item you want to skimp too much on because its job is to protect your skis, which are a much more expensive piece of ski equipment. We didn't include items like the Dakine Ski Sleeve because we think most travelers will want more padding.
Buying advice
What different sizes of skis will you carry?
Are you alpine skiing, snowboarding, or nordic skiing? Maybe a little bit of everything? If you’re alpine skiing or snowboarding, a bag with a little more space will be helpful since the gear is more cumbersome.
Nordic skiers can easily squeeze more gear into a smaller ski bag.
If you plan to use the bag for multiple purposes, look for one with compression straps or size adjustments.
How will you be transporting your ski gear?
A hard case will often be the best option if you’re shipping your ski gear to your destination. However, if you’re traveling with your ski bag as luggage, a soft case will offer more pockets, better organization, and more carrying options, handles, and straps. If you’re carrying the bag with you, we recommend a soft case ski bag.
Do You want to consolidate all Your ski gear in one bag?
Do you prefer all your gear to be in one place, or do you want separate bags for skis, boots, gear, and other items? It is nice to have all of your ski gear in one bag, but remember that this will make that single bag heavier than if you had, say, two bags that were lighter.
If you’re flying, this is a crucial thing to consider regarding the price of checked luggage exceeding the weight limit. However, for some travelers, one heavier bag is better than multiple lighter ones. Consider how heavy your gear is as well as your personal preferences.
why do i need a ski travel bag?
Ski travel bags serve several important purposes for skiers and snowboarders, making them an essential accessory for anyone who enjoys winter sports. Here are some key reasons highlighting the importance of ski travel bags:
Protecting your equipment
Ski and snowboarding gear can be expensive and delicate. Ski travel bags are designed to protect your equipment from damage during transit. They shield your skis, snowboards, poles, and other gear from potential impacts, scratches, and harsh weather conditions.
Convenience and organization
Ski travel bags often come with multiple compartments and pockets, allowing you to neatly organize your equipment. This makes it easier to find and access your gear, as well as keeps everything in one place, reducing the chances of losing items.
Easy transportation
Traveling with skis or snowboards can be cumbersome without a proper bag. Ski travel bags are equipped with features like wheels, handles, and straps, making it much more convenient to transport your gear through airports, train stations, and resorts.
Weather resistance
Many ski travel bags are designed with weather-resistant materials, such as waterproof or water-repellent fabrics. This protection is crucial when traveling to snowy destinations, as it prevents your gear from getting wet and potentially damaged.
Security
Ski bags often come with security features like locking zippers or TSA-approved locks. This can give you peace of mind when checking your gear at the airport, knowing that your equipment is protected from theft or tampering.
Saves on rental costs
By having your own ski travel bag, you can bring your equipment with you on your trip, reducing the need to rent gear at your destination. Renting gear can be costly, and using your own equipment can enhance your overall skiing or snowboarding experience.
Customized fit
Ski travel bags come in various sizes and styles, allowing you to choose one that best fits your specific gear. This ensures a snug and secure fit, minimizing the risk of damage during travel.
Long-term investment
A high-quality ski travel bag can last for many seasons, providing long-term protection for your gear. It's a worthwhile investment for avid skiers and snowboarders who frequently travel to enjoy their favorite winter sports.
Tips for packing your ski gear efficiently
Packing your ski gear efficiently is crucial to ensure that your equipment arrives at your destination in the best possible condition and to make your travel experience more convenient. Here are some tips and guidelines for efficient packing:
Clean your gear: Before packing, make sure your skis or snowboard, bindings, and poles are clean and dry. Remove any dirt, snow, or moisture to prevent corrosion and damage during transit.
Use a ski bag: Invest in a good-quality ski travel bag that is the appropriate size for your gear. Ensure it has enough padding and protection to safeguard your equipment.
Separate your gear: If you have more than one pair of skis or snowboards, use a divider or ski straps to keep them separate. This prevents them from scratching or damaging each other.
Secure bindings: If your ski bindings are adjustable, set them to their widest position. This minimizes stress on the bindings and reduces the risk of damage. If you can't adjust the bindings, pad them with soft materials to prevent pressure points.
Protect edges: Cover your ski and snowboard edges with protective edge guards. This helps prevent accidental dings and damage during handling.
Pack clothing wisely: Use the extra compartments in your ski bag for your clothing, gloves, and other accessories. This not only saves space but also adds an extra layer of protection for your gear.
Wrap fragile items: Items like goggles or helmets should be placed in their protective cases or wrapped in soft clothing to prevent scratches.
Utilize pockets: Take advantage of any external or internal pockets in your ski bag to store smaller items like tools, wax, or personal items. This keeps them organized and easily accessible.
Care and maintenance of ski travel bags
Proper care and maintenance of your ski travel bag is essential to ensure its longevity and functionality. By taking a few simple steps, you can keep your bag in good condition for many ski trips to come.
Start by regularly cleaning your ski travel bag, both inside and out. After each trip, remove any dirt, snow, or moisture that may have accumulated. Using a damp cloth or sponge, wipe down the bag's exterior and interior, paying special attention to zippers, handles, and wheels.
When your bag is not in use, store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaving it in extreme temperature conditions, as this can cause damage over time. If you need to store it for an extended period, ensure it is completely clean and dry to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Check the zippers of your bag for any debris or damage. If you notice any issues, be sure to clean or lubricate them as needed. If your bag has locks, inspect them for proper functioning and lubricate the locking mechanism if it starts to feel stiff or difficult to operate.
In case your ski bag develops tears, holes, or damaged seams, address these issues promptly. Many ski travel bags come with repair kits or patches that can be used to mend minor issues. For more significant repairs, consult a professional or reach out to the bag's manufacturer to ensure the repair is done correctly.
Keep an eye on any straps, handles, or wheels. Tighten loose screws or bolts and replace damaged or missing parts as necessary to maintain the bag's ease of transport.
If your ski bag features removable padding or foam, make it a point to regularly check for wear and tear. Replace the padding if it becomes damaged or loses its protective qualities.
For bags with wheels, periodically check the condition of the wheels and ensure they move smoothly. Clean and lubricate them as needed to keep the bag's mobility intact. Additionally, inspect the handles for any signs of wear or loose components and address any issues to maintain ease of transport.
To protect your ski gear from moisture during storage or travel, consider using moisture-absorbing packets or silica gel inside your ski bag, especially if you're in a humid environment.
Lastly, avoid overloading your ski bag beyond its capacity. Overpacking can strain the bag's zippers and seams, potentially causing damage over time. Always follow the care and maintenance guidelines provided by the manufacturer of your specific ski travel bag to ensure you are taking the best possible care of your equipment. Properly cared-for bags provide peace of mind and offer better performance and reliability when you need them most.
FAQ
What size bag do I need for skiing?
The size of your ski bag should correlate directly to the length of your skis. Some ski bags have adjustment options, while you can purchase others in different lengths. It is a good idea to ensure a couple of extra centimeters of space in your bag so that your skis will fit. (If your skis are 175 centimeters long, look for a ski bag close to 180 centimeters long.)
How do you protect skis in a ski bag?
Most ski bags, whether hard or soft cases, will have some sort of padding to protect your skis. Many soft bags have padding throughout, with some extra around where the bindings will go. This protection is typically enough for your skis. We recommend a soft case if you’re traveling with your skis. If you’re shipping your skis somewhere, a hard case is often a better option.
What is the best way to pack skis in a ski bag?
To an extent, this depends on which bag you have. Some padded ski bags will have different organization options than others. In general, it’s best to lay your skis flat with the bindings facing up. If you have them, use strong rubber bands to hold your brakes back so that your skis lie flat in the bag. Some bags will have specific slots for poles while others don’t, in which case it’s easiest to simply pack your poles next to or on top of your skis.
Can you put ski boots in a ski bag?
Some ski bags have space for boots, while others don’t. If you want to carry your boots in your ski bag, look for a bag with space for boots, often called a ski boot bag combo. Sometimes this is a separate pocket or nesting bag that is a removable boot bag; other times, the main compartment has space for boots, too.
Can you put clothes in a ski bag?
If there is space for your clothes, such as your ski pants, putting them in the ski bag can be a good way to maximize the space in the bag while adding extra padding around your gear. If you’re going to do this, make sure your skis are dry so that your clothes don’t get wet, or pack the clothes inside a waterproof stuff sack or bag before putting them into the ski bag. Many skiers opt for a separate outerwear bag.
Should you put your helmet in your ski bag?
While some ski bags may have enough space for a ski helmet, we don’t recommend stuffing it in with the rest of your ski equipment. Skis, snowboards, and bindings are generally quite durable, so a padded ski bag is plenty to keep them unscathed while traveling. A helmet, however, can easily be dented or damaged, especially from your skis or other gear inside the bag. We recommend carrying your helmet or packing it carefully in your other luggage.
What's the best double ski bag?
Most of the bags we tested are double ski bags, so you have many good options to choose from. Our favorite double ski bag is the Dakine Boundary for its great organization and durability.
What is the best cross country bag?
While many ski bags are designed specifically for alpine skis, all ski bags in this review can carry cross-country skis. We did not test any bags designed specifically for nordic gear, but any bag in this review can carry cross-country skis.
Generally speaking, cross-country skis tend to be skinnier and less bulky than downhill skis, leaving more space in the bag than you’d have with alpine skis. If you plan to use your ski bag for only nordic ski gear, you likely do not need a larger bag and can opt for a smaller, single-ski bag. Usually, two pairs of cross-country or skate skis will fit where one pair of alpine skis would. However, it is crucial that you still ensure the bag is long enough for your nordic skis.
What is the best ski boot bag combo?
It is very common for ski bags to have the capacity to carry boots as well. Not all of the bags in this review will fit boots, but all of the roller bags we tested can carry at least 1 pair of boots, along with skis.
While we initially planned to award a best ski boot bag combo, ultimately, we think you have several good options.
If you’re looking for a ski boot bag combo, consider the Dakine Fall Line, Dakine Boundary, DB Snowroller Light, Backcountry Double Ski roller, or Patagonia Snow Roller.
For the sake of simplicity, it is often nice to carry your skis and boots in one single bag for air travel, but this ultimately comes down to personal preference. It’s worth keeping in mind that, for airline travel in particular, the more gear you can fit in your bag, the heavier it’ll be.
How we tested
Due to several factors, including supply chain issues, travel restrictions, and time constraints, we could not test every bag in this review on a ski trip. The author has used her ski bag, our best overall winner, on multiple ski trips over the years, including on a road trip to Alaska and an international trip to ski in Japan. To test the function of other bags, we loaded them up in the garage with ski gear to test the size, zippers, pockets, and more. We look forward to testing these bags on ski trips throughout the winter season and reporting back with more notes.
About the author / Why you should trust us
A true mountain dweller, Stasia feels far more at home on a high alpine ridge than on a busy city street. She writes primarily in the outdoors, adventure travel, and environmental realm. She’s worked as a backpacking guide in Southeast Alaska, has held WFR, AIARE 1, and Avalanche Rescue certifications, and is working to become an avalanche education instructor.
Her bylines can be found in BACKPACKER Magazine, 5280 Magazine, and REI Co-op Journal, among others. She is also the managing editor of the new print zine, Trails Magazine. Stasia is a lifelong skier, backpacker, mountain biker, and trail runner with a passion for lowering barriers to entry for outdoor sports. When she’s not writing or cooking, you’ll find her in the mountains, probably above treeline, and probably testing gear.
Stasia has spent every winter season skiing since she could walk. She grew up skiing in the mountains of northern Utah and now calls Breckenridge, Colorado home, where she gets out on skis almost every day as long as there is snow to be found somewhere. She has taken her skis from Alaska to Japan, where she’s put ski bags to the ultimate test.
With one ski bag, she strapped it to the top of her truck and drove it from Colorado to Alaska and back through rain, snow, and more. On another trip, she lugged multiple ski bags through airports and bus stations, bullet trains and subways, and LA and Tokyo. All-in-all, she has nearly a decade’s worth of experience with professionally testing and writing about ski gear.
You can see all of Stasia's Treeline Review stories on her author page and her other work on her website.
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