7 Best Ski Bags for Travel 2023
Skis are heavy, bulky, awkward, and expensive. Lugging skis, boots, and poles to the ski resort when you travel is no fun. But carrying when you pack for your next ski trip doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Keep your skis secure, safe, and easy to transport in a ski bag.
When considering the best ski bags, you’ll want to consider the size, material, features, and price.
Ski bags come in various sizes to accommodate different types and lengths of skis. Some bags can carry one pair of skis, while others will hold multiple pairs. If you often travel with your skis, you may want to invest in a bag that can carry more than one pair.
Most ski bags are durable and water-resistant. Some bags have additional padding or reinforcement to protect your skis, poles, and bindings from bumps and scratches.
Some ski bags include wheels for easy transport, zippered compartments for storing gear, or straps for attaching to other bags.
Without further ado, let’s get started!
What Is The Best Ski Bag?
Here is our ranked and reviewed list of the best ski bags.
The 5 Best Ski Bags
- Best Overall Ski Bag – Dakine Fall Line Roller Bag
- Best Budget Ski Bag – High Sierra Ski and Boot Bag Set
- Best Ski Bag With Wheels – DB Djarv Snow Roller
- Best Padded Ski Bag – Thule RoundTrip Ski Bag
- Best Hard Case Ski Bag – Sportube Series 3 Ski Case
- Best Full Featured Ski Bag – Backcountry Double Ski Bag
- Best Boot Bag – Thule RoundTrip Ski Boot Backpack 60L
1) Best Overall Ski Bag – Dakine Fall Line Roller Bag
Specs
- Max Ski Length: 175cm, 190cm
- Capacity: 2 Pairs of Skis
- Boot Bag: Yes, removable
- Wheels: Yes
Overview
Durable and spacious, the Dakine Fall Line Ski Roller Bag is an excellent option for those who want an all-in-one solution for their skiing travels. With room for two pairs of skis, a set of poles, and a removable boot bag, it’s perfect for everything from quick jaunts to the slopes to longer ski vacations. The tow handle can be connected to a rolling suitcase for easy navigation through an airport or hotel lobby. The zippered external pocket is great for storing smaller items like gloves, hats, and travel papers. Plus, the limited lifetime warranty gives you peace of mind if anything goes wrong. The only issue with the padded roller bag is the internal straps in the bag, so unless packed fully, your skis may shift.
Price
MSRP $180
2) Best Budget Ski Bag – High Sierra Ski and Boot Bag Set
Specs
- Max Ski Length: 195cm
- Capacity: 2 Pairs of Skis
- Boot Bag: Yes, separate
- Wheels: No
Overview
The High Sierra Ski Bag and Boot Bag are minimalist bags for carrying your skis and ski boots from point A to B. There is no padding and no wheels, but they are both very well-made and will protect your ski gear during travel. According to the High Sierra site, the bag will hold skis up to 200cm, but realistically you are taking a risk with any ski longer than 195cm. What the bag lacks in features, it makes up for in price. While not the most stylish bag on the list, it is an excellent value for those on a budget.
Price
MSRP $40
3) Best Ski Bag With Wheels -DB Djarv Snow Roller
Specs
- Max Ski Length: 200cm
- Capacity: 1 Pair of skis
- Boot Bag: No
- Wheels: Yes
Overview
People who use the Djarv love this bag. Designed to be both sturdy and lightweight, the Djarv is perfect for those who want a high-quality option that can carry all their ski gear. The length is adjustable to fit skis of any size, and the bag compresses down to 10% of its size when not in use, making it easy to store. The Hook-Up System™️ makes it easy to attach to a rolling luggage bag and comes with a shoulder strap for carrying.
Price
MSRP $289
4) Best Padded Ski Bag – Thule RoundTrip Ski Bag
Specs
- Max Ski Length: 192cm
- Capacity: 2 pairs of skis
- Boot Bag: No
- Wheels: No
Overview
The Thule Roundtrip will have your skis traveling in style in this plush padded bag. Enjoy the convenience of packing up to two 192cm pairs of skis plus poles. The cinch-top ski sleeve keeps your ski gear secure in a dedicated pole compartment. The bag’s S-shaped zipper coils around the bag for easy access and closure, while external compression straps keep contents from shifting. You can carry the bag with the removable padded shoulder strap or convenient grab handles, and lockable zippers help deter theft (lock sold separately).
Price
MSRP $160
5) Best Hard Case Ski Bag – Sportube Series 3 Ski Case
Specs
- Max Ski Length: 180cm
- Capacity: 3 Pairs of Skis
- Boot Bag: No
- Wheels: Yes
Overview
Maximum protection for your ski equipment is the name of the game with the Sportube Series 3. This hard-case ski bag can carry up to three pairs of skis and poles, making it great for a family ski trip or group getaways. The hardshell exterior protects your ski gear from the rigors of travel, while the padding at both ends safeguards your tips and tails. You can also stuff extra equipment and clothing into the space between the skis, giving you even more room to pack. And if you need to ship your skis, this is the bag.
Price
MSRP $280
6) Best Full Featured Ski Bag – Backcountry Double Ski Bag
Specs
- Max Ski Length: 200cm
- Capacity: 2 pairs of skis
- Boot Bag: No
- Wheels: Yes
Overview
Traveling with skis or a snowboard can be a pain, but the Backcountry Double Ski & Snowboard Rolling Bag makes it easy. This burly bag fits two pairs of skis or two boards and has a waterproof lining to protect your gear. And when you’re not using it, the bag compresses down for easy storage. The oversized wheels make for effortless rolling, and a waterproof lining protects your investment. The internal cinch straps keep everything secure, while the external compression straps help to minimize bulk. And for easy searching at baggage claim, choose from one of our three vibrant colorways.
Price
MSRP $250
7) Best Boot Bag – Thule RoundTrip Ski Boot Backpack 60L
Specs
- Capacity: 60L
- Bag Style: Backpack
Overview
The Thule RoundTrip Ski Boot Backpack 60L was designed for the traveling skier. It has a rear-loading compartment for storing and transporting your ski boots and grommets in the boot compartment that allow water to escape so your feet stay dry. The bag also has a two-way access top or front, a crush-proof SafeZone compartment for protecting fragile gear, built-in attachment loops for connecting to any Thule RoundTrip Ski or Snowboard Rolling Bag, and external lash webbing for attaching skis, boards, poles, helmets, or outerwear. The bag also has lockable zippers to deter theft and padded shoulder straps, and multiple grab handles for easy transport.
Price
MSRP $170
Things to consider with ski bags
Whatever ski vacation you want, there’s an ideal bag for you. Before buying, consider this:
Size
A ski travel bag must be large enough to accommodate your skis and be comfortable to carry. Choose a bag that will fit your longest pair of skis.
Additional features
Always look for a convenient and high-quality ski bag. Here are some features to consider when purchasing the right ski bag:
Ski Bag Design
There are several good ski bag styles available.
Sleeve Bags
Basic sleeve bags are inexpensive but don’t offer much in the way of padding. They usually don’t have any internal support or wheels, meaning you must carry your skis over your shoulder.
Coffin Bags
Coffin bags are boxier than sleeve bags. They usually have internal support to maintain their shape and can hold more. They often have wheels and extra compartments and can keep more of your ski gear, including helmets, clothing, and sometimes boots. These bags are great for longer trips and flights.
Hard Cases
Hardcase ski bags provide the ultimate protection. They will keep your skis safe on flights and even when being shipped. The downside is weight. A hard case is the heaviest type of ski bag.
Additional Features
Look for additional features like lockable zippers, internal straps, and water-resistant lining.
Compressions Straps
Compression straps will help you cinch down the bag and reduce its size. These are great when trying to reduce the bag’s volume.
Cargo Straps
Cargo strapping on the inside of a bag will ensure your ski equipment doesn’t move during transport.
Ski Boot Bag
Some ski bags come with a matching boot carrying case. These are typically big enough to hold a pair of ski boots up to a US size 13 and your helmet, gloves, and other gear. Most ski boot bags are backpack-style.
FAQ
What kind of bag should I bring skiing?
The best ski bag depends on your preferences and your plan to use it. If protection is your number one priority, then a hard case is the way to go. A sleeve-style bag may be best if you want something simple to throw in the ski carrier. If you are hoping to carry only one bag on a ski trip, then a coffin-style bag is the best.
Should I get a bag for my skis?
Yes, you should get a bag for your skis if you plan on traveling with them. Ski bags protect your skis and make transportation easier.
Do you need a padded ski bag?
Padded ski bags offer extra protection for your skis and will keep your skis safer when you travel.
Whats the difference between a ski travel bag and a ski backpack?
A ski travel bag protects your skis when you are traveling. A ski backpack is designed to carry your gear while skiing on the hill.
Final Thoughts
The best ski bag for travel is the one that best suits your needs. There are many different ski bags available, so be sure to choose the one that best fits your skiing style and needs. Hardcase tubes are the most durable option, while wheeled bags are great for long journeys. Whatever type of bag you choose, make sure.
