When traveling for a ski trip, stressing over awkward luggage and new airport regulations is extra baggage you just don't need! If you're planning to fly with your equipment, it's important to make sure your skis are safe and secure so you can have a worry-free trip. We nailed down our tried and true ways to keep your equipment protected in transit.
Travel Tip: Always carry on your boots.
We recommend always taking your boots along on your trip for comfort factor. Packing a boot-specific bag as your carry-on helps separate items, making it easier to go through security. The Thule Roundtrip Boot Bag or Transpack TRV Pro (or Edge Junior for kids) are both designed as backpacks, making it comfortable to take anywhere.
Travel tip: Hard cases are the best option for shipping skis.
The Hard Case Shuttle from Transpack is a hard-sided, rolling case that gives your equipment the best possible protection. Interior straps hold your gear in place, and the case is adjustable so when you're not using it, it shrinks down to a smaller size for easy storage. This is the best option for shipping your skis to your destination-you can slap a shipping label right on the case and send it out as is!
Travel Tip: Padded cases are the most versatile option.
While hard cases are said to be the safest option when checking your skis on a plane, padded cases like the Kulkea Katanja offer much more versatility. With a full-length zipper and straps that hold your skis and poles against the padded sides, there is plenty of room to pack in your ski clothes and other gear, which also offers additional padding.
The RoundTrip Double Snowboard Roller from Thule is specifically made to hold snowboards! Compression straps hold your board in place, and there is plenty of additional room to fit your boots in as well.
Travel Tip: For protecting your skis on bus trips, opt for a non-padded case.
For those junior skiers who take lots of trips via bus, pick up a Transpack Alpine Junior Ski Bag. These bags are a great way to protect your skis from getting scratched when they're packed on a bus with other peoples' equipment.