As if packing for vacation wasn’t tricky enough, let’s throw a pair — or four — of skis, boots, jackets and sweaters into our luggage! We’re well beyond trying to fit it all into a carry-on. We’re at the weighing and measuring level now.
It doesn’t have to be this way.
There are great ways to pack and consolidate your ski clothes and gear, making it easy to pack, transport and keep well-organized on the other side.
How to Get Up To Double into Your Luggage
If you haven’t discovered the glory — actually, “Glory! Hallelujah!” — of compression bags, here’s your packing epiphany. They come in several forms and functions. The most basic compression bags and cubes are zippered squares and rectangles that fit puzzle-like into your luggage.
Fold or roll (yes, you can pack even more if you roll your shirts, pants and undies) categories of items into separate bags, zip — which flattens it more — and pack. Some come with stiff panels that compress even more (and more evenly). When you arrive at your lodging, pop the bags into drawers. Not only does this save time unpacking (and repacking at the end), but everything stays neat and organized during your stay. Compression bags are a must-have for travelers, especially those who like to travel with smaller or carry-on bags.
For skiers, “vacuum” compression bags are even better. They both resemble resealable food storage bags (the ones that sound like ‘flip-flop’ or TikTok) and are affordable and widely available at most hardware and grocery stores and online. Fold your clothes, place them into the bags, and seal them shut. You then remove the air compressing the clothes by approximately ⅓ to ½ the size. Depending on the bag, this is done by manually “squeezing” or pumping (with a hand or small electric pump that typically comes with the bags) out the air. Then, flip these flat, dense pancakes into your luggage.
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One insulated down coat, one down puffy, one micro puffy, two shells, two bibs now fill less than half of a carry on bag.
This is a game changer for skiers because most ski clothes—jackets, pants and layers—are full of highly compressible insulation. When you remove the air, you remove a large percentage of the bulk, allowing you to pack (or purchase) more.
Take Advantage of the Nooks and Crannies
Ski hardgoods are often rigid and bulky. Skis, helmets and boots don’t fit well and take up a lot of room in traditional luggage. However, their structure does provide some benefits.
The inside of ski boots is a terrific place to pack…socks. All of them! Stuff them all the way in. If there’s extra room, grab underwear or toiletries. If you have an adventure camera, the interior of a ski boot can also keep it protected en route.
The interior of a ski helmet is a great place to layer gloves, a head cap and a neck gaiter. Buckle them in; they are ready when you head to the slopes.
If you don’t have a dedicated ski bag for boots, helmets and accessories, consider getting one. Not only does it keep everything contained and organized during your trip, but it also provides good storage afterward. If you don’t own a ski bag, pack a large, durable tote bag, such as this one from Stio, for EACH group member to keep everything organized and moving quickly before and after your ski day.
Expert Tip: Carry on your boot bag when flying. In the unlikely event your luggage is delayed, you’ll have the most important – and difficult to rent or replace – items with you.
Finally, if you’re lucky enough to have a ski bag, like this wheeled one by Rossignol, pack it with more than skis. Depending on the size, you can also fit other gear in there. Jackets, pants and other bulky clothing are great for wrapping around (clean, dry) skis or snowboards, providing added protection and freeing up luggage space. Because most airlines, including Delta Air Lines, count ski bags as luggage, be sure they don’t exceed weight limits. Delta also allows a boot bag to be checked along with your ski bag for no extra fee.
Packing for your next ski trip doesn’t have to resemble a wrestling match between you and your luggage. Ski clothes and gear provide some features that, when utilized, make them particularly stuffable and malleable, allowing you to pack more, stay organized and even bring home souvenirs.
