Search our 'Beyond the Gear' Blog Articles:  
The Ultimate Guide to Ski and Snowboard Travel Policies: Top 10 Airlines
Last Updated: 12/17/2024
We know how exciting it can be to plan your dream ski trip, but traveling with gear can be overwhelming. With varying rules on weight limits, size restrictions, and fees, knowing how to fly with skis and snowboards can save you time and stress. Which kind of luggage do airlines require? Will your ski boot bag count as a carry-on? We've broken down the top 10 airlines flying to ski destinations to help you navigate the rules, fees, and best practices for flying with your gear so you can focus on enjoying the slopes.


1. Flying with skis on Alaska Airlines
Bag Guidelines: One ski/snowboard bag and one boot bag count as one checked item.
Size/Weight Limits: Ski/snowboard equipment may exceed 62" (linear), without incurring an oversize fee but may not exceed 50lbs or will be subject to overweight fees.
Fees: $35 for the first checked bag; $44 for the second.
Recommended Bags: Both hard-sided and soft bags are accepted, but hard-sided are recommended.
Replacement Policy: Liability for damaged items follows standard policies, but fragile items aren’t guaranteed.
Extras: Oversize dimensions are accepted without extra fees.

2. Flying with skis on American Airlines
Bag Guidelines: One pair of skis/snowboard plus boots counts as one checked item.
Size/Weight Limits: The maximum weight for most items is 50 lbs / 23 kgs (some exceptions apply). The maximum size is 115 in / 292 cm (length + width + height).
Fees: Standard checked bag fees apply, starting at $40.
Recommended Bags: Hard-sided cases.
Replacement Policy: “We are only liable for any damage to sports equipment if they are in hard-sided case”
Extras: Elite status members may receive waived baggage fees.

3. Flying with skis on Delta Airlines
Bag Guidelines: Ski/snowboard bag and a separate boot bag count as one checked item.
Size/Weight Limits: Overweight baggage fees apply to bags that exceed 50 lbs and bags cannot exceed 115 linear in/292 cm (length + width + height).
Fees: Standard checked bag fees start at $35.
Recommended Bags: All Sports Equipment must be packed in a durable protective container designed specifically for the equipment. (ie, Hard-sided cases)
Replacement Policy: Compensation offered for damages if items are packed correctly.
Extras: No additional fee for oversize ski equipment.

4. Flying with skis on Southwest Airlines
Bag Guidelines: Ski/snowboard bag and boot bag count as one of the two free checked items.
Size/Weight Limits: Standard weight limit of 50 lbs (each bag) applies, 62 inches in size (length + width + height).
Fees: No fees for the first two bags.
Recommended Bags: No specific recommendation; ensure proper packing.
Replacement Policy: Limited liability for damages.
Extras: Two free checked bags for all passengers.

5. Flying with skis on United Airlines
Bag Guidelines: One ski/snowboard bag and one boot bag count as one checked item.
Size/Weight Limits: 50 lbs weight limit; oversize dimensions allowed.
Fees: Standard fees start at $40 for the first bag.
Recommended Bags: Hard-sided cases are ideal for better protection.
Replacement Policy: Liability limited unless a hard-sided case is used.

6. Flying with skis on JetBlue
Bag Guidelines: One ski/snowboard bag and one boot bag are considered one checked item.
Size/Weight Limits: No oversize fees; standard weight limit of 50 lbs applies.
Fees: Checked bag fees start at $35.
Recommended Bags: Either hard-sided or soft bags; however, hard-sided cases are preferred.
Replacement Policy: “Damage to checked sports equipment will only be covered if the item is checked inside a hard-sided case designed to protect its contents, and only if permitted items are in the case.”

7. Flying with skis on Spirit Airlines
Bag Guidelines: Ski equipment counts as one checked item.
Size/Weight Limits: Ski equipment (water or snow) is charged as a standard checked bag. Please be mindful that overweight (over 50 pounds /22.6 kg) and oversized (over 62 inches / 157.48) baggage costs more.
Fees: Fees vary by booking timing; typically $50+.
Recommended Bags: Hard-sided cases are preferred due to handling conditions.
Replacement Policy: Waiver required; liability is limited for fragile items.

8. Flying with skis on Frontier Airlines
Bag Guidelines: Ski/snowboard bag and boot bag may count as one item.
Size/Weight Limits: Combined weight limit is 25 lbs to avoid additional fees.
Fees: Standard checked baggage fees apply.
Recommended Bags: No specific recommendations; secure packing essential.
Replacement Policy: Limited liability for damages.

9. Flying with skis on Canada Air
Bag Guidelines: Accepts ski or snowboard equipment, which may include one pair of skis or a snowboard with boots, poles, and a helmet packed in the same bag.
Size/Weight Limits: Maximum length of 6.5 feet (2 meters). Combined weight of the ski bag and an additional boot bag must not exceed 50 lbs (23 kg).
Fees: Counts as a standard checked bag; applicable baggage fees depend on the ticket fare and destination.
Recommended Bags: Hard-sided cases are recommended for maximum protection, but padded soft bags are also accepted.
Replacement Policy: Covers damages only if the equipment is packed in an appropriate bag designed for skis or snowboards.

10. Flying with skis on Allegiant Airlines
Bag Guidelines: One ski bag and one boot bag count as a single checked item.
Size/Weight Limits: 80 linear inches is the limit before incurring oversize fees and a max of 50 lbs.
Fees: Fees for oversized or additional baggage start at $75.
Recommended Bags: Hard-sided cases are recommended for extra protection.
Replacement Policy: Limited liability; damages must be reported immediately.
Be sure to do a final check with the airline directly as some of this information may be outdated.

Shipping your skis to your destination
As an alternative to traveling with your skis, there is another option, shipping your gear! Our partners over at Luggage Forward offer a door-to-destination shipping option. You simply schedule your pickup and drop-off locations and dates, and they’ll handle the rest. No need to lug your skis and snowboards through airports or worry about getting everything right. Let Luggage Forward handle the heavy work and ensure your gear arrives safely wherever you are staying.

Conclusion
Whether you’re packing your skis or opting for a hassle-free shipping solution, being informed and prepared can make all the difference. Understanding airline policies and planning ahead ensures that your gear is protected and your journey is stress-free. After all, the focus should be on enjoying your time on the slopes, not worrying about how your equipment gets there. With the right strategy, your dream ski trip is just a smooth glide away!

Common Questions:
How much does it cost to fly with skis?
That depends on the airline. Some airlines don’t charge you at all, some charge you their normal baggage rate, and some may charge you an oversized fee. It depends on your airline, but you can expect $25-$50 for most airlines.
Can you carry-on your ski boot bag?
Yes! Of course, always check to ensure your boot bag meets the size requirements for carry-on luggage. While most airlines allow ski bags and boot bags to count as a single checked item, we actually prefer to carry boots with us. That way, if anything happens to the skis (lost, delayed, etc.), the trip can carry on. Renting skis is much easier than renting ski boots.
Are there size restrictions for ski or snowboard bags?
Most airlines accept ski and snowboard bags as checked items with specific size limits. For example, bags up to 292 cm in total dimensions are common, but oversized fees may apply for longer equipment. Check with your airline to avoid surprises.
Do I need a hard or soft case for my gear?
Most airlines will recommend using a durable, protective luggage that is made specifically for your equipment. We believe that hard cases are best for air travel as they are intended to withstand more abuse; however, some airlines will accept either hard cases or soft bags as long as your gear is secure, but may require you to sign a waiver releasing any liability for damage to your soft bag.
What happens if my ski equipment is damaged during the flight?
We recommend reporting the damage at the airport directly to the airline if possible. At a minimum, within 24 hours to increase your chances of getting your claim approved.
Are there other alternatives to flying with your ski gear?
Yes, as an alternative to taking your skis with you on the plane, you can instead ship your skis ahead of time and enjoy a door-to-destination travel experience. Our partners over at Luggage Forward offer an amazing program that allows you to travel stress-free and still enjoy your own skis when you finally arrive at your destination.



Was this article helpful?

Comments: