August 07, 2023 8 min read

Everything you need to know about snowboard travel bags and how to make them last

Introduction

Man snowboarding wearing a red jacket

Before hitting the mountains, every rider needs a reliable and sturdy travel bag to transport their gear safely. A good snowboard travel bag will not only protect your equipment but also make traveling a breeze. Here at GILI Sports, we've put together this guide to the best snowboard travel bags for hitting the slopes this winter! From lightweight options to hard cases with ample space for multiple boards – we've got you covered! So let's dive in and explore what makes these bags stand out from the rest!

What is a snowboard travel bag?

Gray Snowboarding travel bag

A snowboard travel bag is a specialized gear bag designed to protect and transport your snowboarding equipment. Unlike regular luggage or backpacks, these bags are specifically created to hold and secure snowboards, boots, bindings, helmets, and other accessories.

Bags can come with an array of features and sizes so that you can fit multiple boards while others are designed for individual ones. They also vary in terms of capacity, weight, straps, pockets, and zips.

Most snowboarding bags have a compartmentalized design which allows you to organize your gear efficiently. Additionally, they’re made of durable materials such as Nylon or polyester with padding for protection against rough handling during transit.

Having a good quality snowboard travel bag not only protects your investment but also makes traveling much easier by keeping all your essential items organized in one place.

Types of snowboard travel bags

When it comes to snowboarding travel bags, there are two main types: hard case and soft bag. Hard cases provide the ultimate protection for your board during transport, while soft bags offer more flexibility in terms of packing space and weight.

Hard case snowboard travel bags are typically made with durable materials such as ABS plastic or aluminum, providing excellent protection against bumps and rough handling. These bags usually have foam padding on the inside to keep your board secure and straps to hold everything in place. However, they can be heavy and bulky, making them difficult to maneuver through airports or fit into smaller rental cars.

On the other hand, soft bag snowboard travel bags are lightweight and easy to pack into tight spaces. They often come with extra compartments for boots or clothing, making them a great option for longer trips where you need more storage space. Soft bags also tend to be less expensive than hard cases.

When choosing between a hard case or soft snowboard travel bag, consider factors like how much protection you need during transport versus the convenience of packing and carrying the bag around. Ultimately, both options serve their purpose depending on your specific needs as a traveler heading out onto the slopes this winter season!

How to pack your snowboard bag for a trip

Snow board accessories

Properly packing your snowboard bag is crucial to ensuring that your gear arrives at your destination safely and in one piece. Start by removing all loose items from your board, including bindings and boots.

Next, wrap each binding separately in bubble wrap or a towel to protect them during transit. Place the bindings on top of the board and secure them with straps.

When it comes to packing clothing, roll rather than fold items to maximize space. Choose lightweight layers that can be easily compressed into small spaces.

Utilize any pockets or compartments within the snowboard bag for additional storage, but avoid overpacking as this can damage zippers or cause unnecessary strain on the seams.

Ensure that any sharp objects are securely wrapped and placed away from your snowboard to prevent punctures or tears in the fabric of the bag.

Remember to weigh your packed bag before heading off to ensure it meets airline requirements for weight restrictions. By following these simple tips, you can pack like a pro and hit the slopes worry-free!

Tips for traveling with your snowboard gear

Our team at GILI Sports has put together our top tips for your next winter trip. Here are some helpful suggestions to make traveling with your snowboard gear as stress-free as possible.

Firstly, plan ahead by checking airline regulations and packing accordingly. There's nothing more frustrating than paying extra fees for a bag you have already paid for. Additionally, bringing a carry-on bag with essential items like boots and goggles can help ensure you’re prepared in case checked luggage gets lost.

When packing your snowboard bag, use padding or bubble wrap around bindings to protect them from damage during transport. It also helps to remove any loose screws or accessories that could get lost in transit.

Consider investing in a durable and waterproof snowboard travel bag that has compartments for organizing gear. Look for lightweight options that have sturdy straps and handles for easy carrying through airports and shuttles.

Always label your bags clearly with contact information just in case they get misplaced during travel. By following these tips, you’ll arrive at your destination ready to hit the slopes without any baggage-related headaches!

How to care for your snowboard travel bag

Taking care of your snowboard travel bag is essential to ensure it lasts for many trips to come. Check out our top tips below:

1. Clean it regularly - After each use, make sure to wipe down the exterior and interior of your bag with a damp cloth. This prevents any dirt or debris from accumulating in the fabric.

2. Keep it dry - Avoid storing a wet snowboard or gear inside the bag as this can promote mold growth, bad odors, and damage to the material.

3. keep your bag somewhere dry and cool as this will prevent moisture build-up and potentially mold.

4. Check for wear and tear - Routinely check your snowboard bag for signs of wear such as holes or tears in the fabric or broken zippers that compromise its ability to protect your equipment while traveling.

By following these simple steps you can extend the life of your snowboarding travel gear investment without having expensive repairs done unnecessarily!

Our top 5 snowboard travel bags

Our top 5 bags have been carefully selected based on their features, quality, and overall value for money. Each bag offers something different to suit your individual needs and preferences.

Burton Wheelie Gig Bag

A durable and reliable option that can accommodate multiple boards. This bag comes with ample storage space and sturdy wheels for easy transportation.

Burton wheelie gig board bag

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Ample storage space
  • sturdy wheels
  • capacity to accommodate multiple boards

What we like:

  • Excellent durability and reliability.
  • Spacious enough for multiple boards
  • The wheels make it easy to transport, even when full.

What we don't like:

  • The bag might be too large for single-board users. The wheels, while convenient, could be a liability on uneven surfaces or in heavy snow.

Dakine Low Roller Snowboard Bag

Which boasts a stylish design alongside its practical features. This lightweight bag can fit one board plus other gear in its exterior pockets.

Dakine Low Roller Snowboard Bag

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Stylish design
  • lightweight
  • exterior pockets for additional gear, and can fit one board.

What we like:

  • Attractive design and lightweight construction, which makes it perfect for those carrying less gear.
  • The exterior pockets are useful for smaller items.

What we don't like:

  • Only suitable for one board, so not ideal for those with multiple boards. The lightweight construction might not be as durable or protective as heavier, more robust bags.

Thule RoundTrip Snowboard Bag

This bag offers superior protection with its padded walls and reinforced corners. It also features a handy pass-through pocket to keep your belongings safe and secure.

Thule RoundTrip Snowboard Bag 165cm

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Superior protection with padded walls and reinforced corners, and a pass-through pocket for secure storage.

What we like:

  • Excellent protection features make it ideal for air travel. The pass-through pocket adds an extra layer of security for valuable items.

What we don't like:

  • Possibly too bulky or heavy for those who prefer lighter bags. The high level of protection might come with a higher price tag

Burton Space Sack Snowboard Bag

This stylish bag offers plenty of storage for all your gear and comes with a removable shoulder strap.

Burton Space Sack Board Bag

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Stylish design
  • plenty of storage
  • removable shoulder strap

What we like:

  • Stylish design combined with practicality, ample storage for all your gear. The removable shoulder strap adds versatility in how you carry it.

What we don't like:

  • Lack of reinforced protection could leave gear vulnerable. The design might not be to everyone's taste.

Ride Snowboard Carry Bag

Will keep your board safe while you travel. Its lightweight yet strong construction makes it perfect for air travel and it offers all-around protection from scratches and dings.

Ride The Perfect Snowboard Bag

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Lightweight yet strong construction
  • all-around protection from scratches and dings

What we like:

  • Ideal for air travel due to its lightweight and robust construction, offers excellent protection for your board.

What we don't like:

  • Lack of extra pockets for additional gear storage. It might not have the capacity for multiple boards.

These five bags are highly recommended by seasoned travelers who have put them through their paces while hitting the slopes around the world!

Conclusion

We've now looked at many of the factors that need to be considered prior to purchasing, how to find the right bag for you, and how to care for your bag. For instance, you may prefer a lightweight soft bag with ample padding or a heavy-duty hard case for added protection during air travel.

When packing your snowboard bag, be sure to follow proper techniques in order to ensure the safe transport of your gear. This includes disassembling bindings and placing them in separate compartments, as well as securing loose items with straps or packing cubes.

While investing in quality materials such as nylon, polyester or Gortex can provide durability and waterproofing, it's also important to consider factors such as weight capacity and ease of transportation when selecting a snowboard travel bag.

Whether you're hitting the slopes at Burton Mountain Resort or traveling internationally for an epic winter adventure, having a reliable snowboard travel bag is essential for protecting your gear and ensuring hassle-free travels. So take some time to research different options before making a purchase - happy shredding!

FAQ’S

🏆 Can a snowboard travel bag fit multiple boards?

Yes, some snowboard bags are designed to fit more than one board.


👍 Are hard cases or soft bags better for traveling with my snowboard?

It depends on personal preference and needs. Hard cases offer more protection but can be bulkier and heavier, while soft bags are lightweight and easier to pack but may not provide as much protection.


🏝️ Can I bring my snowboard gear as carry-on luggage on an airplane?

It depends on the airline's policies. Some airlines allow you to bring your snowboard gear as a carry-on if it fits within their size restrictions, while others require it to be checked in.


❓ What is the best way to clean my snowboard bag?

Use a damp cloth or sponge with mild soap or detergent to clean any stains or dirt from the exterior of the bag. Ensure it is dry completely before storing.


📦 How do I prevent my snowboard gear from getting wet when traveling?

A waterproof snowboard bag will almost always keep your stuff dry. This will help protect against moisture and ensure that your gear stays dry during transport.

Finding the right snowboarding travel bag is essential for protecting your equipment during transport. By following our packing tips and caring for your bag properly after each trip, you can ensure that you get many years of use out of your investment in high-quality gear transportation gear!

Jay Regan
Jay Regan

Chief Paddler - Jay has been surfing and paddling for over 5 years. When he's not dreaming up new stuff at GILI, he's writing articles about paddling, out paddling, or often traveling.


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