Flying with skis and split boards

Flying with skis or a split board is easier than people fear, but a little planning saves you real money and real stress at the airport. Here is what we have learned moving gear between Patagonia, Japan, Norway, and the Dolomites.

Know the airline policy before you book

Most airlines treat skis as a standard checked bag as long as they are under the weight and length limits, usually around 190 to 200 centimetres. A few budget carriers charge oversize fees no matter what. Check before you buy the ticket, not at the counter. Bring a screenshot of the policy · it settles arguments fast.

Hard case or soft bag

A hard case protects your gear best and is often required by some airlines. The downside is bulk and weight · it eats into your allowance. A padded soft bag is lighter and easier to haul through transit, and works well if you pad your skis with your clothing. For a single trip a year, a good padded bag is enough. For frequent travel, invest in the hard case.

Pack smart, pack light

Remove bindings if you can, or pad them. Wrap skis together base-to-base with a towel between them. Use every inch of the bag for soft gear · skins, poles broken down, extra layers. Put nothing fragile in the ski bag. Keep boots in your carry-on or a separate boot bag · losing boots is the one disaster you cannot fix quickly.

Keep it from getting lost

Oversize bags get routed differently and are more likely to miss a connection. Build in a long layover on international trips, and fly direct whenever you can. Tag the bag inside and out with your name, phone, and destination address. A photo of your gear on your phone helps if you need to file a claim.

The one thing we always do

Carry your boots and one day of base layers in your carry-on. If everything else is delayed, you can rent skis at the destination · but you cannot rent your boots. Protect the one piece of gear that has to be yours.

Arrive early, label everything, and fly direct when you can. The mountains are worth the hassle.