Since skiing equipment can be easy to damage while at the same time it can damage your other luggage, you’ll want to pack your skis right before traveling. The last thing anyone wants to do is add to the cost of air travel with damaged luggage or skis.
The first rule of traveling with skis is to pack them in an airline ski bag. Skis shouldn’t be thrown into just any ski bag that will fit them. Top-rated ski bags are made to fit and protect your skis specifically, so they’re the best choice when you’re getting ready to travel. Not to mention, most airlines won’t allow you to travel with skis unless they’re properly stored.
The biggest thing to concern yourself with after that point is ensuring that your ski bag meets any weight limits an airline might have. If you’re worried about meeting weight requirements, a soft ski bag is comparatively lighter than a hard ski case. If it’s allowed, pack some clothes around the skis for extra padding. You should also put covers over the ends of your poles to prevent them from damaging any other luggage you might be carrying.
Finally, you’re going to want to make sure you label your ski bag properly just like any other piece of luggage to make sure everything stays in the right hands. This means grabbing a luggage tag and putting your name, phone number, and even address to get them back if they get lost in transit.
It’s also a good idea to pick up a luggage lock to make sure no one can unlock your ski bag aside from security and you. Just make sure the lock you use is TSA-approved before heading to the airport.