Best Ski Boot Bags of 2024/25
ski boot bags and ski boot backpacks for traveling with ski or snowboarding boots
Published October 11th, 2024
Home > Gear Reviews > Ski & Snow
For many skiers and snowboarders, winter means traveling to favorite ski destinations, whether that’s up the road or across the globe. Having luggage designed to transport your skis and winter gear makes the trip that much easier, especially when it comes to one of the most important pieces of gear: your ski boots.
It’s often a given that a ski bag is necessary for travel, but boot bags are just as useful, especially since your boots are tailored to your feet and hard to replace if they get damaged during travel. Though you may be tempted to stash your boots in your regular ski backpack or some other bag, boot bags offer the best solution and have the most space and protection for your boots, and often other gear too. The best ski boot bags will transport your ski or snowboard boots for your travel to the slopes, no matter how far your ski trip may take you.
We researched dozens of travel ski boot bags and ski boot backpacks on the market, looking at media and customer reviews, specs, and more. We then confirmed our research by testing the top models for ourselves. Read on to find the best ski boot bags for your winter skiing adventures.
Carrying your skis while you travel? See our guide to The Best Ski Travel Bag and Best Snowboard Travel Bag
Related: What size ski boot do I need?
Read more: Best Gifts for Skiers
We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission – without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.
Ski boot bags comparison table
| SKI BOOT BAG | TREELINE AWARD | MSRP | MATERIAL | WEIGHT | VOLUMES | POCKETS | PADDING |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thule Round Trip Boot Pack 60L | Best overall Read review |
$170 | Polyester | 2.8 lbs | 45L, 60L | 1 boot, 1 main, 1 goggle | Thin on sides, additional on top and inside boot garage |
| Dakine Boundary Roller | Best ski and boot bag combo Read review |
$255 | Polyester ripstop | 7.7 or 9.9lbs | Two pairs of alpine skis | 2 exterior, internal nesting boot bag, gear bag | 360° padding |
| Dakine 50L Boot Pack | Best affordable Read review |
$80 | Polyester | 1.9 lbs | 50L | 1 boot garage, 1 top, 1 front | Light padding on the sides with a little extra in boot garage |
| Patagonia Black Hole 100L | Best duffel for ski boots and gear Read review |
$219 | 900-denier 100% postconsumer recycled polyester ripstop with a postindustrial recycled TPU-film laminate | 4.43 lbs | 100L | Mesh lid, zippered side pocket | None |
| Kulkea Trekker Heated Ski Bag | Best heated Read review |
$280 | PU-coated nylon and polyester | Not stated | 62L | Individual boot, main, top exterior, helmet sling | Light on sides |
| Sportube Cabin Cruiser | Best ski boot bag with wheels Read review |
$194 | Polyester | 6 lbs | 35L | 1 main boot, two small side, water bottle, helmet sling | Sides |
*See our Deals Page for discounts and sales on products that win our awards.
The winners
Best overall Ski boot bag: Thule RoundTrip Boot Pack 60L
Material: polyester
Weight: 2lb 12oz
Volume: 45L or 60L
Pockets: one boot garage, one main compartment, one goggle pocket
Padding: thin padding on sides, additional padding on top and inside boot garage
What we liked: protective, durable, spacious, and very functional
What we didn’t like: expensive and a little cumbersome
If you’re looking for a snowboard or ski boot bag with all the bells and whistles (except the unnecessary ones), the Thule RoundTrip boot backpack takes the cake for our best overall boot bag. A few key features level this bag up from others we researched and tested. The main features we appreciate are the padding and durability. This bag has light padding throughout the sides but boasts extra rigidity on the top, which protects ski helmets and ski goggles when in transit. This bag made us feel confident that our gear was safe inside, even if it got tossed around a little.
This 60-liter ski and snowboard boot bag is built like a backpack and has a rear boot compartment that’s zippered and accessed from the back panel. Inside, two sides are lined with a durable, padded, and water-resistant layer that keeps your boots safe and sound inside. In addition, the polyester material is resistant to snags and tears. With solid stitching and a quality design, this ski boot backpack bag swill stand the test of time.
Compare Prices Of The Thule Roundtrip Boot Pack 60L
The Thule Ski Boot Bag has great stitching and well-placed handles as well as buckles to cinch down extra volume.
Compartments
The Thule Round Trip ski boot bag has a spacious main compartment that can be accessed from the top and a front zipper, so it’s easy to get in and out.
Capacity
On a ski road trip to Utah, we could fit boots, a ski helmet, goggles, ski gloves, a ski jacket (women’s and men’s) and ski pants (women’s and men’s), and some extra layers and essentials like ski socks in this one pack. And during travel, we never worried about dings in the helmet or goggles inside, thanks to that extra padding and rigidity on top. This bag is just small enough to pass as a carry-on. We did not have a chance to fly with it, but it would be our choice if we did because of the extra protection.
Close-up of how ski boots fit within the main compartment in the Thule RoundTrip boot bag.
Value
The only downside to this bag is the high price tag. It’s more than double the price of our budget winner. However, if you plan to travel often with your ski equipment and want a durable, protective, spacious bag that will last a long time, we think it’s worth the splurge.
The RoundTrip boot bag is a bestseller on REI, with almost all 5-star reviews from everyday customers. You’d be hard-pressed to find a more functional boot bag than this one.
See our most popular ski gear articles in our Snow Gear Guide:
Best ski and boot bag combo: Dakine Boundary Roller Ski Bag
Material: polyester ripstop with water-repellent finish
Weight: 7.7lbs/9.9lbs
Available sizes: 180cm/200cm
Padding: 360-degree padding
Additional pockets: two exterior, internal nesting boot bag, and gear bag
What we liked: durability, lots of features, nesting gear bags
What we didn’t like: expensive
Whether you’ve got some big trips in the works or just need one bag that can do it all, the Dakine Boundary is the holy grail of ski bags. This roller bag cannot only carry two pairs of skis and poles but also save room for your boots, clothing, and other gear (whether that’s backcountry ski gear, gear for your winter-loving dog, or a yoga mat for post-ski stretching) with a well-organized combo of zippered pockets and nesting internal bags. Plus, like the more affordable Dakine Fall Line, this bag has supreme durability and can stand up to all your ski adventures, near and far.
Compare Prices Of The Dakine Boundary Roller Ski Bag
Durability
The Boundary bag is made with a sturdy 600-denier polyester ripstop outer fabric, made with eco-friendly, bluesign-approved materials (the coated versions are made with 900-denier fabric for even more durability).
The inner lining of the main compartment and pockets is waterproof, so the bag won’t wet out when you load it up after a big powder day. It comes in 185 and 200-centimeter lengths.
Organization and capacity
What makes this bag stand out from others is its ability to carry so much gear efficiently. The main compartment has ample space for two pairs of skis and poles. Two removable bags nest into the main compartment: one for ski boots and another vented one for ski clothing. Two outer zippered pockets fit other small ski essentials like mittens, goggles, and more. Exterior compression straps cinch the bag down to keep your gear from flopping around inside the bag. The wheels on the bag roll smoothly without getting in the way.
Lengths
The only downside to this bag is the ski lengths it can accommodate. While other bags have a feature that allows them to get longer or shorter based on the length of skis you’re carrying, this one does not. However, the 185-centimeter length bag is large enough to hold all but the longest pairs of alpine skis. And if you’re on the fence, the longer bag will fit long alpine skis when needed while having extra room for gear when the skis are shorter.
The bottom line
Overall, this is a top-of-the-line bag with excellent features for skiers or snowboarders who want to splurge on their ski bag or snowboard bag. It’s an REI bestseller with many happy customer reviews complimenting the spaciousness and durability of the bag. So if you want one bag to carry it all and don’t mind spending a little extra cash, the Boundary is for you.
Best affordable ski boot bag: Dakine 50L Boot Pack
Material: polyester
Weight: 1lb 14oz
Volume: 50L
Pockets: one boot garage, one top compartment, one front compartment
Padding: light padding on the sides with a little extra in boot garage
What we liked: affordable, durable, functional, and easy to travel with
What we didn’t like: not as much padding or space as other models
The Dakine 50L Boot Pack is the ideal companion if you’re looking for a do-it-all boot bag to take from the slopes to wherever you’re headed that is half the price of some of the other ski boot bags we tested.
The Dakine 50 L Boot Pack is just the right size, with enough space and pockets for extra gear without being too cumbersome. It’s durable, easy to pack, easy to schlep around as a carry-on or otherwise, and rings up at a price we think is reasonable and affordable for a good boot bag. Here, most skiers and riders will find all they need to transport ski or snowboard boots.
Compare Prices Of The Dakine 50L Boot Pack
The Dakine 50 L boot pack has one main storage compartment that is easily accessed and feels to be just the right size. It’s small enough to be a carry-on.
Organization
The Dakine 50L Boot Bag features one main boot storage compartment accessed by a zipper on the bag's back panel. This same design is common in most boot bags for easy access to items and quick in and out.
The interior of this pocket has a water-resistant lining on two sides that keeps other gear in the pack from getting wet from wet boots. It also adds durability against boot soles and buckles. It has additional top and front zippered compartments that leave space for extra gear, including a helmet, goggles, mittens, and even an extra layer.
The Dakine Boot Pack is made of a durable outer material that doesn’t feel too bulky.
The top compartment fits a ski helmet snuggly, and the front compartment leaves space for the rest and will have more or less space depending on how large your boots are. The polyester outer material is durable without being bulky. It’s got a padded shoulder strap to be carried like a backpack, as is the case with most boot bags. It also fits as a carry-on (though it is too large to be considered a “personal item” on some flights).
The Dakine Boot Pack fits a ski helmet snuggly.
Padding
This pack does not have additional padding besides a thin layer around the boot compartment. After testing this on a couple of ski road trips in Colorado and Utah, we haven’t found any issues with durability or that lack of extra padding. Instead, this makes the bag less cumbersome than others and easier to carry.
This Dakine boot bag is a best-seller at REI with several good customer reviews. Our testing confirms this is a great bag at a friendly price point for ski travelers on a budget.
Best duffel for ski boots and gear: Patagonia Black Hole 100L
Material: 900-denier 100% postconsumer recycled polyester ripstop with a postindustrial recycled TPU-film laminate
Weight: 4.43 lbs
Volume: 100L
Pockets: Mesh lid, zippered side pocket
Padding: None
Sometimes you want a simple bag to do it all and hold it all, a bag where you can toss everything inside, zip it up, and go. The Patagonia Black Hole is ideally simple, and the 100-liter version has space for just about everything you could need for a winter trip except for your actual skis or snowboard. This bag is our winner if you’re looking for a versatile duffel that works for more than just winter ski trips.
This classic outdoor duffel has been updated for 2024-2025 with a more eco-friendly material.
Compare Prices Of The Patagonia Black Hole 100L
The Patagonia Black Hole 100 is made of a durable outer material yet folds down for easy storage after you’re done skiing.
Updates for 2024-2025
The classic Patagonia Black Hole Duffel now has a 100% post-consumer recycled polyester ripstop for its body fabric. The lining and webbing are also 100% post-consumer recycled. It is lined with post-industrial recycled TPU-film laminate. It's also made in a Fair Trade Certified sewn factory. The TPU is a first-of-its-kind in the industry.
Features
Compared to other boot bags in this review, the Black Hole is a reasonably simple duffel bag with some extra features that make it stand out from others. The bag has one giant main compartment for all your gear with just a couple of mesh pockets for organizing small essentials. The organization is up to you, which is good if you want a bag that can fit all sorts of different gear inside.
The Black Hole Duffel has handles on either side and a shoulder strap for easy carrying of ski equipment,
Handles and straps
The bag has hauling handles on either side, a shoulder strap to carry like a duffel, and detachable shoulder straps so you can wear it as a backpack. This bag has minimal padding—just a little extra on the bottom. But, the TPU-laminate film that covers most of the bag adds durability and weather resistance. On top of that, the Black Hole duffel is made almost entirely of recycled materials (98 percent, to be exact). Patagonia’s website offers additional information on how and where they make the bag.
Durability
We put the Black Hole duffel through years of use. It came along for multiple ski road trips across the western US over multiple winter seasons and on an international trip to ski in Japan for a couple of weeks. On top of this, we used this bag to haul gear for summers of guiding work in Alaska, including ski gear, mountaineering gear, climbing gear, and more.
However, if you run into any issues, it comes with Patagonia's Ironclad Guarantee and access to their legendary Repair Program.
After all this, the bag has proven to be a durable and trusty companion for adventures worldwide. The only issue we encountered was one tiny hole, smaller than a pea, in the bottom corner of the bag from an ice ax that was poorly packed (which says more about user error than the bag’s durability).
Padding
The downside of this bag is that it’s not ski-boot specific. The padding is minimal, so take care of how you pack if you’re putting a helmet or other fragile items in the bag. And, it’s easy to exceed the weight limit for checked luggage with a bag this big. That can be a good or bad thing, depending on how you look at it.
The bottom line
The Black Hole is a favorite for outdoor adventurers, travelers, skiers, and snowboarders. Dozens of customers gave this bag a 5-star review. While this bag isn’t specifically designed for ski or snowboard boots, it’s an excellent option for anyone who wants a do-it-all gear hauler for adventures near and far.
Best heated ski boot bag: Kulkea Thermal Trekker Boot Bag
Material: PU-coated nylon and polyester, TPU
Weight: Not stated
Volume: 62L
Pockets: individual boot compartments, main compartment, top exterior pocket, helmet sling
Padding: light padding on sides with TPU bottom
What we liked: keeps boots warm in transit to ski areas, good organization
What we didn’t like: expensive, heavy
Skiers and snowboarders with perpetually cold toes will often do whatever possible to stay warm on the slopes. One way to do that is to start with warm boots. A heated boot bag will keep your boots toasty so that you’re never jamming your foot into ice-cold plastic. For this purpose, we think the Kulkea Trekker is the best option. Two zippered pockets on either side of the backpack hold each boot while heating elements keep these pockets and your boot warm.
Compare Prices Of The Kulkea Thermal Trekker Boot Bag
Features
This bag uses thermal conduction to heat the individual boot pockets. There are controls for three different heat settings, so you can adjust them to your specifications. Kulkea claims the heating pads go as high as 140 degrees Fahrenheit on the highest setting.
In addition, there is a plug for a regular wall outlet or a car plug so that you can warm your boots up at home, in the lodge, or the car. Aside from the heating features, this 62-liter bag has additional pockets for gear in the center bag and a helmet sling on the front.
While it is nice to keep your boots warm whenever possible, this bag comes with a hefty price tag. Plus, since this bag is heavier and has heating elements, it is not ideal for air travel. However, if keeping your boots warm is a top priority, this is the bag for you.
Best ski boot bag with wheels: Sportube Cabin Cruiser
Material: polyester
Weight: 6lbs
Volume: 35L
Pockets: one main boot compartment, two small side pockets, water bottle pocket, detachable helmet sling
Padding: padding throughout the sides of the bag
What we liked: one of few roller boot bags on the market, good organization
What we didn’t like: roller bags aren’t ideal for snow, only fits ski boots up to size 28 Mondo Point
Most ski boot bags are built like backpacks for easy transport to and from the slopes. But if you’re looking for a boot bag that can smoothly roll through airport terminals without weighing down your shoulders, the Sportube Cabin Cruiser does just that. It sits in a lonely category with few other snowboard boot or ski-boot-specific roller carry-ons on the market. Sportube is known for making quality luggage for various sports, making their Cabin Cruiser our top choice for a roller boot bag.
View The Sportube Cabin Cruiser
Capacity
At 35 liters, the Sportube roller bag is a little less roomy than others we tested, but that does make transport easier. It has a padded boot compartment with multiple other small storage pockets, including a water bottle holder and a detachable helmet carry sling. It’s made with a durable polyester outer material that’s abrasion resistant and meant to hold up to heavy use in the airport.
Ease of carry
The downside to roller bags like this is that, while they cruise through the airport on tile floors, dragging them through snow isn’t easy. So, if you want a pack that you can easily tote to the lodge to put your boots on by the fire, this one won’t be the best. But, if you primarily need a boot bag for airport travel, this one will work well.
Other ski boot bags we tested
Marker Access Boot Backpack
Material: PVC-coated polyester ripstop
Weight: Not stated
Volume: 50L
Pockets: boot pocket, helmet pocket, extra gear pocket
Padding: none
The Marker Access Boot Backpack is a well-built boot pack with a boot garage and separate helmet storage, with space for other gear, too. Most of the bag has a waterproof PVC film coating to help keep gear dry. Design-wise, it's similar to the Athalon Ski Boot bag, a popular budget option available in many colors.
View the Marker Access Boot Backpack
Material: coated polyester ripstop
Weight: 3.9 lbs
Volume: 75L
Pockets: boot pocket, goggle pocket, helmet pocket, 3 additional gear pockets
Padding: padded throughout
The Rossignol Hero Boot Pro has a plethora of pockets and features and is made with coated polyester for added waterproofing. It also has notably thick padding in the shoulder straps for comfort, as well as a hip belt to help with weight distribution. It has separate boot, helmet, and goggle pockets along with multiple additional pockets for extra gear.
View The Rossignol Hero Boot Pro
Some of the ski boot bags we tested side-by-side loaded up in the back of a car headed to go skiing.
Buying advice
Size and volume
Most boot bags are designed to fit ski and snowboard boots of all the commonly offered sizes. Other than this, you want to consider how much additional gear you want to transport with your boot bag. From the bags we reviewed, sizes range from as small as 30 liters to as large as 100 liters. Our favorite bag, the Thule RoundTrip, has 60 liters of space, and we think that’s the sweet spot, with enough space for boots, a helmet, goggles, gloves, and a couple of layers.
Material
All the bags in this review are made of durable synthetic fabrics, like ripstop polyester and nylon. Some have an added coating (like PU or TPU) for extra durability and weather resistance. We’ve noted when this is the case in individual reviews.
The Dakine Boot Pack has some padding in the boot compartment.
Waterproof
None of the boot bags we researched or tested are fully waterproof, but that is not really a necessary feature. Most are water resistant, and the bags with an added coating of PU or TPU will have the best weather resistance.
Padding
Most boot bags have at least some padding in the boot compartment, and many have additional padding throughout.
Additional padding is great to protect these items if you’re storing extra gear that you don’t want to get beat up, like a helmet or goggles. It’s not always necessary, but it is very nice to have, especially for airline travel.
Wheels
The vast majority of boot bags are built like backpacks so it’s easy to transport to and from the ski hill. Some roller bags are designed like carry-on luggage; these are convenient for airport travel but not as ideal for transporting once you’re near the mountain and ski resort since they don’t roll well in snow.
Handles and straps
Since most boot bags are built like backpacks, they will have shoulder straps. Some will also have additional straps for hauling the bag. Most boot bags are built with backpack straps so that your hands are free to carry your skis, poles, and any other gear without having an extra bag to hold. And that’s the same reason we prefer boot bags that can be carried like backpacks. A sternum strap on some ski boot backpacks adds extra security as you move around.
Pockets
A good boot bag should be able to carry more than just boots. All the bags in this review have room for additional gear, some more than others. Our preference for a boot bag has room for a helmet, goggles, gloves, glove liners, and a couple of layers in addition to boot storage. It’s also worth noting that most boot bags have a separate compartment for the boots, keeping them separate from other gear (so that your other gear stays protected from the hard plastic of ski boots, dry, and hopefully free of the smell of well-worn ski boots).
Boot heaters
Most boot bags are not heated, though a few are on the market. Heating is a nice feature if you get cold feet and want to ensure your boots are warm. However, it’s not necessary since there are easier ways to keep your boots warm. (Keep them inside at night! Place them by a heater on the way to the ski hill.) For some, the added weight and extra cords that come with a heated bag often make it not worth the hassle, especially for traveling.
How to choose a ski boot bag
How much gear do you need to carry?
Volume is one of the most significant features to consider when selecting a ski or snowboard bag. Consider how much extra gear you want to fit in the bag and make your decision with that in mind.
How much padding do you want?
Most bags have at least some padding, but some have more than others. So if you’re traveling far, through airports, or checking the bag as luggage, find a bag with good padding to protect your gear.
How important is organization?
Most boot bags have good storage and organization, but some have dedicated pockets that others don’t. Consider this when selecting your bag. If you want a bag that does more than just carry ski boots, a duffel may be an option worth considering, though it will lack the organization features of bags made specifically for ski and snowboard boots.
Why do you need a ski boot bag?
A ski boot bag is an often-overlooked but indispensable accessory for any avid skier or snowboarder. Its role extends far beyond mere storage and transportation. The ski boot bag serves as a vital companion on your winter adventures, enhancing convenience, organization, and overall enjoyment. Here's why a ski boot bag is crucial:
Protection and preservation
Ski boots are a substantial investment. A quality ski boot bag shields your boots from external elements like moisture, dust, and harsh weather conditions. This protection is not only for your gear's longevity but also for your comfort and safety on the slopes. Dry, well-preserved boots ensure a better fit and performance.
Convenience
Carrying your ski equipment, which includes heavy boots, can be a cumbersome task. A dedicated ski boot bag simplifies the process. It typically includes specialized compartments for boots, helmets, goggles, and other gear, ensuring everything has its place and is easily accessible. This convenience streamlines your pre-and post-skiing routines, leaving you with more time to enjoy the slopes.
Organization
Skiing and snowboarding require various gear and accessories, from gloves and goggles to spare layers and snacks. A ski boot bag's pockets and compartments help you stay organized. You can keep everything in one place, making it less likely to forget important items at home.
Hygiene
Wet and muddy boots can not only be uncomfortable but also lead to unpleasant odors and potentially health issues. Ski boot bags typically have ventilation features that allow air to circulate, keeping your boots dry and odor-free.
Travel convenience
Whether you're heading to the local ski resort or embarking on a ski vacation, a ski boot bag is your travel companion. It not only keeps your gear organized and protected but also helps you avoid extra baggage fees at the airport. Many ski boot bags are designed to meet airline carry-on regulations.
Extended adventures
If you enjoy backcountry or cross-country skiing, a ski boot bag becomes even more vital. It allows you to carry your boots comfortably while hiking to remote locations or accessing the trails. Some bags also offer the flexibility to attach skis or snowboards.
In summary, a ski boot bag is more than just a piece of luggage; it's an essential tool that enhances the overall skiing or snowboarding experience. By protecting your gear, providing convenience and organization, and aiding in travel, it ensures that you're well-prepared and can focus on what matters most: enjoying the slopes and the beauty of winter sports.
How to clean and maintain your ski boot bag
Properly cleaning and maintaining your ski boot bag is essential to ensure its longevity and keep your gear in top condition. To start, it's crucial to empty the bag completely, removing all items, including your boots, gloves, and other gear.
Once the bag is emptied, inspect it for visible damage, such as tears or loose stitches. Address any minor issues promptly to prevent them from worsening. After ensuring the bag is free of damage, take it outdoors and give it a thorough shake to remove loose dirt, snow, or debris.
For more targeted cleaning, if you have specific stains or spots on your bag, use a damp cloth and mild soap to gently clean the affected areas. It's essential to avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbing, as they can damage the bag's material.
Depending on the bag's care instructions, you can either choose to hand wash it with mild detergent and lukewarm water or machine wash it on a gentle cycle. Be sure to remove any detachable straps or accessories before washing.
After washing, rinse the bag thoroughly to remove all soap residues. Then, hang it up or lay it flat to dry in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight and high heat, as excessive heat can damage the bag's material.
To maintain its water-repelling capabilities, consider reapplying a waterproofing spray after cleaning if your bag is designed to be water-resistant. Additionally, inspect the zippers, buckles, and other hardware for any signs of wear or damage and lubricate zippers with a specialized zipper lubricant if necessary.
Lastly, make sure to store your ski boot bag clean and dry. Avoid packing wet or damp gear, as moisture can lead to mold and unpleasant odors. Proper cleaning and maintenance will ensure your ski boot bag remains in excellent condition for many seasons of use.
FAQ
Do you need a ski boot bag?
It isn’t necessary to have a ski boot bag designed specifically for ski equipment, especially if you’re on a tight budget. But it is a nice item to have if you often travel to ski or snowboard. A ski boot bag or ski boot backpack helps keep your gear organized in one place. More notably, it protects your ski equipment during travel, too. If you travel to ski often, whether on long or short trips, it’s worth investing in a boot bag. This is especially true if your ski trips take you places only accessible by air travel, such as across the country or internationally.
What size ski boot bag do I need?
Most boot bags are designed to fit all the standard sizes of ski and snowboard boots. Aside from that, there are additional storage pockets for other gear. Consider how much other gear you want to put in the bag, and keep that in mind when making your choice.
Can a ski boot bag be a carry-on?
Yes, as long as it matches the size requirements of the airline. If you want to use your boot bag as a carry-on, ensure it is not too large before buying.
What's the best ski boot and helmet combo bag?
Nearly all of the bags in this review have either a helmet pocket or helmet sling (with the exception of the Patagonia Black Hole duffel). Most boot backpacks (like the Thule and Dakine in this review) have pockets for storing a helmet. Our favorite for transporting a helmet safely is the Thule Round Trip, thanks to the stiff, padded top of the bag that helps to protect a helmet and goggles.
What's the best ski boot backpack?
There are many options for this on the market, and most of the ones we tested and reviewed have backpack straps. Our favorites are the Thule Round Trip and the Dakine Boot Pack. The Thule is more expensive but has notable features that other bags don’t, like a well-padded top to protect a helmet and goggles, and side straps for carrying skis if necessary. It also has comfortable and durable shoulder strap. We like the Dakine pack for its sleek simplicity and affordability. While it doesn’t have quite as many features as the Thule, it still has good pockets, is quality made, and comfortable to carry.
What's the best carry-on ski boot bag?
Many of the bags in this review will work as carry-on luggage. Our top choice for this is the Thule Round Trip because of its features, durability, and padding that protects your gear when traveling. However, if you prefer a roller carry-on, the SportTube Cabin Cruiser is also a great option, though the helmet storage is not as protective as the Thule.
We took our skis to Japan as part of an international ski trip.
How we researched and tested
We started by deep diving into research and looked at specs and reviews of dozens of top boot bags on the market. From there, we distilled our findings to the top few and sought to test them in the field for ourselves.
We’ve spent over a year testing the boot bags on short and long road trips to ski and even to international destinations like Japan. After all that work, we narrowed down the winners.
About the author / Why you should trust us
A true mountain dweller, Stasia feels far more at home on a high alpine ridge than on a busy city street. She writes primarily in the outdoors, adventure travel, and environmental realm. She’s worked as a backpacking guide in Southeast Alaska, has held WFR, AIARE 1, and Avalanche Rescue certifications, and is working to become an avalanche education instructor.
Her bylines can be found in BACKPACKER Magazine, 5280 Magazine, and REI Co-op Journal, among others. She is also the managing editor of the new print zine, Trails Magazine. Stasia is a lifelong skier, backpacker, mountain biker, and trail runner with a passion for lowering barriers to entry for outdoor sports. When she’s not writing or cooking, you’ll find her in the mountains, probably above treeline, and probably testing gear.
More of her work and adventures can be found on her website.
To see all Stasia’s Treeline articles, see her author profile.
Stasia has spent every winter season skiing since she could walk. She grew up skiing in the mountains of northern Utah and now calls the high country of Colorado home, where she gets out on skis almost every day as long as there is snow to be found somewhere. She has taken her ski gear from Alaska to Japan, where she’s put ski boot bags to the ultimate test. She’s lugged boot bags on road trips to find powder in Utah and through the Tokyo airport chasing snow there, too. All-in-all, she has nearly a decade’s experience professionally testing and writing about ski gear.
