How to Fly with Skis & Snowboards: Airline Baggage Tips

So, you wanna fly with skis or snowboards? No sweat! It can be easy if you plan a bit. Most airlines are cool with skis and boards as checked bags, but prices and what you can bring change. This guide will tell you what's up for 2025, plus show you how to pack and move through the airport so your ski trip goes off without a hitch.

Airline Ski & Snowboard Baggage Policies

airline ski & snowboard baggage policies

When flying with skis or a snowboard, the good news is that most airlines treat your gear as part of your regular checked baggage allowance. However, each airline has its own rules and limits — especially when it comes to weight and international routes. Here’s a breakdown of how the major carriers handle ski and snowboard equipment in 2025.

✈️ U.S. Airlines

Delta Air Lines

Delta allows one ski or snowboard bag plus one boot bag per passenger, and the two together count as one checked item. You can even include your helmet or goggles inside the boot bag.

• Weight limit: 50 lb (23 kg); overweight fees apply above this.
• Size limit: 115 in (292 cm) total dimensions.
• Fees: Standard checked baggage fees; overweight fees if exceeded.

United Airlines

United’s policy is very similar: you can check one ski or snowboard bag (up to two pairs of skis) plus one boot bag as a single piece of luggage.

• Weight limit: 50 lb (23 kg).
• Tip: United agents usually don’t charge oversize fees for ski gear if packed properly.

American Airlines

American treats one pair of skis or a snowboard and one equipment bag (with boots and poles) as one checked item.

• Overweight fees: Apply for 51–70 lb (23–32 kg).
• Special note: Flights to or from London Heathrow add an $80 sports equipment fee.
• Otherwise: Regular checked baggage allowance applies.

🌍 International Carriers

Lufthansa

Lufthansa offers one of the most generous ski policies. On non-U.S. routes, every passenger can check one ski equipment item for free — this includes one ski/snowboard bag plus one boot/pole/helmet bag.

• Valid on most international routes except to/from the U.S., Mexico, or Central America.
• For U.S. routes: counts as normal checked baggage.

Air Canada

Air Canada also provides free ski equipment on certain long-haul routes.

• Free allowance: On flights between Canada and Europe, the Middle East, or Africa, operated by Air Canada or partners (Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian, Brussels).
• Includes: One ski/snowboard bag and one boot bag.
• Restrictions: Not available in Basic Economy; elsewhere, standard baggage fees apply.

British Airways

BA includes ski and snowboard gear in your regular checked baggage allowance as long as it fits within 190 × 75 × 65 cm.

• You can pack your boots or clothes in the same bag as your skis.
• A separate boot bag can count as hand luggage if it meets carry-on limits; otherwise, it becomes a checked bag.
• If you’ve already used your free bag allowance, you’ll pay the standard checked bag fee.

🧳 Key Takeaways

• Most airlines treat ski gear as one checked item, including both the ski/snowboard bag and a boot bag.
• Watch the weight: anything over 50 lb (23 kg) usually triggers an overweight fee.
• Free ski gear policies (like those from Lufthansa or Air Canada) often apply only on international routes outside the U.S.

❗️ Tip: Always verify the exact baggage rules for your flight — they can change year to year. And if you have elite status or a credit card, remember you might have extra free checked bags that can cover ski gear.

Airline Ski & Snowboard Baggage Policy Comparison

How to Pack Your Ski or Snowboard Bag for Air Travel

Well-packed gear not only helps avoid extra fees but also keeps your skis or snowboard safe.

pack ski bag for air travel

Follow these practical packing tips to ensure your gear is properly protected:

1. Choose a Quality Ski Bag

• Padded or hard-shell cases are ideal for protection.
• Wheeled bags make transport easier.
• Double ski bags can carry two sets of skis or extra clothing, which helps with space and weight distribution.

2. Bundle Your Skis Together

• Lay skis base-to-base (bindings facing each other) and strap them tightly.
• Add padding (bubble wrap or foam) around bindings, tips, and tails for extra protection.
• Use interior straps to keep skis from sliding side to side.
• Plastic spacers aren’t essential if your skis are well-packed, but they can add extra security.

3. Protect Edges and Tips

• Cover sharp edges with tape or extra padding (like ski socks or foam).
• Bundle poles together in a separate sleeve or pocket if the bag allows.

4. Boot Bag Strategy

• If your airline counts the boot bag separately, consider carrying it on. Boots are difficult to replace and should stay with you if possible.
• If you must check your boots, pack them in a dedicated boot bag.
• Use the inside of boots to pack smaller items like socks, gloves, or a camera to save space and help meet weight limits.
• Always fasten or lock your boot bag to prevent items from falling out.

5. Fill Gaps with Clothing

• Use bulk ski clothes (jackets, pants) to fill gaps in the ski bag. This acts as extra padding and helps protect your gear.
• Wrap each ski in a jacket or towel if needed for additional cushioning.
• Some airlines may prohibit clothing in sports bags, but many travelers still use it to pad their gear.

6. Use Compression Gear

• Bring compression sacks or packing cubes for your ski clothes. Vacuum-style compression bags can shrink bulky jackets and pants, giving you more room in your ski bag or main luggage.
• Pack by category so you know where everything is and can easily access it.

7. Label and Lock Your Bag

• Use sturdy baggage tags and write your contact info on the bag.
• Add a business card or address label inside the bag.
• Lock your bag with a TSA-approved lock to prevent theft or tampering. Note that non-TSA locks may be cut if required for inspection.
• Mark the bag “FRAGILE” as a courtesy, especially if you're carrying delicate or expensive gear.
• Always keep a photo of your packed gear in case you need to file a claim later.

Baggage Allowances & Fees for Air Travel

Even with careful packing, understanding baggage fees can save you from expensive surprises. Below is a clear breakdown of key points about allowances and common charges for ski and snowboard gear.

1. Standard Checked Bag Fees

• On most U.S. airlines, ski or snowboard gear counts as a standard checked bag, not a special item.
• If your ticket includes one free checked bag, you can use it for your ski gear.
• If not, typical domestic U.S. fees are about:
  • $30–$40 for the first bag
  • $40–$50 for the second bag
• Southwest: Allows one ski + boot bag as a single checked bag under certain fare/status conditions; many fares now require payment.

2. Weight Limits

• Most carriers charge an overweight fee for bags weighing 51–70 lbs (23–32 kg).
• Examples:
  • Delta: ~$100 for 51–70 lb
  • American Airlines: ~$150 (domestic) for 51–70 lb
• Bags over 70 lb (32 kg) may require cargo shipment or incur very high fees.
• Tip: Wear bulky ski clothes or boots on the plane, or redistribute heavy items to avoid extra weight charges.

3. Oversized Bag Policies

• Most airlines allow ski or snowboard bags up to 115 linear inches (length + width + height) without oversize fees.
• Bags exceeding this limit can cost $150–$200 per flight segment.
• Tip: Avoid packing helmets or extra gear inside long ski bags if they risk exceeding the limit.

4. Ski & Snowboard Gear Specifics

5. Tips to Save Money

• Use an airline credit card to get free checked bags.
• Book fares that include baggage, especially for international trips.
• Pack boots separately if combined weight is near 50 lbs.
• Compare shipping gear via services like UPS or FedEx for long trips.

Airport Tips & Logistics

Traveling with ski or snowboard gear can be smooth if you know what to expect at the airport.

A woman is ready to fly with skis

Below are practical tips to make check-in, connections, and customs easier.

1. Arrive Early

Oversized items like ski bags often require special handling. Plan extra time—ideally at least 90 minutes before departure for international flights. Some airlines (e.g., Lufthansa) ask you to drop ski gear at an out-of-gauge or oversized counter; others (e.g., Delta) tag it during regular check-in. Extra time ensures your bag is correctly processed as “sports equipment.”

2. Check Through on Connections

Your ski bag is usually tagged to your final destination like other checked luggage. On international itineraries you may need to claim it after customs and recheck for the next leg. Many airports deliver oversized baggage to a separate carousel or hold area—look for signs labeled “Oversize Baggage.” At ski hubs (for example, DEN or SLC), oversized gear may not appear on the main belt. When in doubt, ask a baggage agent where oversized sports gear is unloaded.

3. Keep Boots With You

If possible, carry your boot bag as carry-on or keep boots on your person. Boots are expensive and hard to replace; if your checked ski bag is delayed, having your boots means you can rent skis and still use your own boots. This is especially useful on tight connections or international trips.

4. Document and Track Your Gear

Before checking your skis, photograph them and note any existing damage. Keep baggage claim tags and consider placing a tracker (AirTag or similar) inside your ski bag so you can monitor its location. Keep a photo of the packed contents for insurance or claims if needed.

5. Be Prepared for Customs

When traveling outside the U.S., you typically claim your checked bag and pass through customs. Still, follow these precautions:

• Make sure skis/boards are clean (no snow, soil, or plant material) to avoid biosecurity holds in countries like New Zealand or Australia.
• Be ready to declare new or multiple sets of gear—customs officers may question items that look commercial or recently purchased.
• Keep receipts for expensive equipment. Returning to the U.S., travelers may have a personal exemption (commonly up to $800) for new items—having proof helps if asked.

In most cases, a little preparation—arriving early, keeping boots with you, documenting gear, and checking customs rules—will keep your airport experience stress-free and get you to the slopes faster.

Customs & International Considerations

Flying internationally with skis or snowboard gear introduces extra steps. Follow these guidelines to avoid delays or unexpected fees:

1. Declare if Necessary

• Some countries consider sporting equipment taxable imports.
• For personal use (your own skis and boots), you usually do not owe duty.
• If carrying brand-new gear, multiple sets, or oversized boxes, be prepared to fill out customs paperwork.
• Always state “personal sports equipment” when asked—most of the time it clears without issue.
• On connecting flights requiring terminal exit, you may need to show your gear to customs officials.

2. Cross-Border Rules

• Countries like Canada have strict rules for food, plants, and animal products, but skis, snowboards, and clothing are generally fine if clean and dry.
• Avoid packing prohibited items (e.g., snowboards with wood fragments may raise concerns in Australia).
• Always check your destination’s official customs website if unsure.

3. Insurance

• Consider travel insurance covering lost or damaged luggage internationally.
• Some policies allow specifying high-value items like ski equipment.
• Airline liability in the U.S.:
  - International flights: ~$1,700 per passenger (Montreal Convention)
  - Domestic flights: ~$3,800
  High-end ski sets may exceed this, so insurance or declaring value at check-in provides extra protection.

Treat skis like any valuable item: keep them clean, declare them honestly if requested, and take precautions with insurance. Following these steps ensures that customs is usually a minor formality rather than a headache.

Air Travel Hacks & Pro Tips

Traveling with skis or snowboards can be expensive and stressful, but smart planning and packing can save money and time. Here are practical tips from experienced travelers:

1. Ship Your Skis

• If airport hassles or fees are too high, consider shipping your gear via a courier service specializing in skis.
• They pick up from home, handle customs paperwork, and deliver directly to your resort.
• Shipping adds cost but ensures your equipment arrives safely and on time, avoiding baggage fees and airport stress.

2. Single-Bag Strategy

• Some travelers pack both skis and personal items into a single large ski bag to avoid extra checked baggage.
• Use stuff sacks or packing cubes to organize clothing alongside skis.
• Tip: Carry boots separately as hand luggage so they don’t take up space in the ski bag.
• This method is possible but not officially encouraged by airlines—stay under weight limits.

3. Wear Bulky Items on the Plane

• Wearing ski boots, one bulky ski pant, or heavy layers frees up weight in checked bags.
• Use the space around your feet for small items (snacks, insulated jacket) to save pounds.

4. Reserve Ski Bag Drop

• Some airlines allow pre-booking oversize handling for sports equipment.
• Ask at check-in for a “sports equipment” or “oversize” option to get a special tag or belt.
• Drop off at designated counters to avoid long queues.

5. Lighter Packing & Seat Hacks

• Consider renting bulky items like parkas or avalanche gear at your destination instead of packing them.
• Wear the heaviest layers on the plane.
• Check if your airline offers free extra weight allowance for ski equipment—some (e.g., Delta) list ski bags explicitly.
• Keep receipts for rented or purchased gear in case insurance claims are needed.

6. Plan Ahead & Know Airline Policies

• Weigh your gear and review the airline’s sports equipment rules.
• Call the airline if uncertain about fees or allowances.
• Politely challenge extra charges that are not supported by official policy—sometimes agents will waive unnecessary oversize fees.

Conclusion

Taking your skis or snowboard on an overseas trip might seem like a headache. But don't worry, if you plan ahead, pack smart, and know what the airline allows, your gear will be fine, and you'll have a much easier trip. Get these things sorted, and you’ll spend less time at the airport and more time skiing or snowboarding! Have a fantastic time, and have fun on the slopes!

Sources:

• Delta Air Lines
• United Airlines
• American Airlines
• Lufthansa
• Air Canada
• British Airways

Richard R

With over 10 years of experience working on cars and trucks Item Training Supervisor Richard Reina is known around the office as one of our technical experts & real an "automobile person".

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