Best Ski Boot Bags of 2024

ski boot bags and ski boot backpacks for traveling with ski or snowboarding boots

Ski boot bags and skis loaded in the back of a car

Published November 7, 2023
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

Related: What size ski boot do I need?


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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 TPU-coated polyester ripstop 3.6 lbs 100L Internal mesh, mesh lid 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
Marker Access Boot Backpack $125 PVC-coated polyester ripstop Not stated 50L Boot, helmet, extra gear None
Rossingnol Hero Boot Pro $116 Polyester ripstop 3.9 lbs 75L Boot, goggle, helmet, 3 additional gear Throughout
Swix Road Trip Tri-Pack Boot Pack $80 Polyester 2.2 lbs 50L 1+2 section main Bottom
Dakine Boot Locker 69L Boot Bag $75 Polyester 2.4 lbs 69 L Mesh side, tablet sleeve Bottom panel
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*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

Thule RoundTrip boot backpack
  • 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

Thule Ski Boot Bag In Trunk

The Thule Ski Boot Bag has great stitching and well-placed handles as well as buckles to cinch down extra volume.

The bag's spacious main compartment can be accessed from a top zipper and a front zipper, making it easy to get gear in and out.

A separate, smaller, and well-padded pocket at the top holds ski goggles, while a helmet nests nicely at the top of the main compartment.

Thule Ski Boot Bag Panel Open Pocket

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.

On a ski road trip to Utah, we could fit boots, a 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.

Thule Ski Boot Bag Storage Boots

Close-up of how ski boots fit within the main compartment in the Thule RoundTrip boot bag.

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.


Best ski and boot bag combo: Dakine Boundary Roller Ski Bag

dakine boundary ski roller 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

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. 

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.

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.

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

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

Dakine Ski Boot Bag Travel Luggage

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.

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.

Dakine Ski Boot Bag Front View

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).

Dakine Ski Boot Bag Helmet View

The Dakine Boot Pack fits a ski helmet snuggly.

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

Patagonia Black Hole 100L
  • Material: TPU-coated polyester ripstop

  • Weight: 3lbs 10oz

  • Volume: 100L

  • Pockets: internal mesh pocket, mesh lid pocket

  • Padding: none

  • What we liked: spacious, versatile, made with recycled materials

  • What we didn’t like: no dedicated boot storage, no padding

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.

COMPARE PRICES OF THE PATAGONIA BLACK HOLE 100L

Patagonia Black Hole Ski Boot Bag Ski

The Patagonia Black Hole 100 is made of a durable outer material yet folds down for easy storage after you’re done skiing.

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.

Patagonia Black Hole Luggage Ski Boot

The Black Hole Duffel has handles on either side and a shoulder strap for easy carrying of ski equipment,

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.

We put the Black Hole duffel through years of use and abuse. 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.

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). 

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 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

Kulkea Trekker Heated Ski 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

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

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.

COMPARE PRICES OF THE SPORTUBE CABIN CRUISER

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. 

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.

The Cabin Cruiser has racked up a handful of 5-star reviews and was listed as a top boot bag by Trip Savvy. Based on our research and the specs of this bag, we also think it’s the best roller ski boot bag.


Other ski boot bags we tested

Marker Access Boot Backpack

Marker Ski Boot Bag
  • 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


Rossignol Hero Boot Pro

Rossignol Hero Boot Pro

  • 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.

COMPARE PRICES OF THE ROSSIGNOL HERO BOOT PRO

We spent many hours researching available ski and snowboard boot bags on the market for this story. As with all of our reviews, we verify our research with testing in the field. While we were able to test three of the bags in this review, many others were unavailable due to supply chain issues. This issue especially occurs with options from major ski manufacturers like Volkl, Rossignol, and Marker. Many of these brands tend to offer options for ski and boot bags, but most were out of stock when we wrote this story. As these become available, we hope to test them and add our feedback to the story. 

When writing this story, most of these bags were still out of stock. However, we think that some of these options are worth considering if you’re able to find them.


Some of the ski boot bags we tested side-by-side loaded up in the back of a car headed to go skiing.

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.

Dakine Ski Boot Bag Back Panel View

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.

Thule Ski Boot Bag Side View

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.


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. 

As mentioned in this story, supply chain and stocking issues prevented us from testing every bag we wanted to, though we plan to test more as they become available. We took the boot bags we did test on short and long road trips to ski and even to international destinations like Japan. After all that work, we narrowed down the winners.


Stasia Stockwell skiing in Japan

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.