Protecting Your Ski Gear While Traveling

One of the plus sides of winter is the chance to grab your skis and head out for an invigorating weekend on the slopes. Whether it's a day trip to the closest resort or a long-awaited ski trip abroad, you want to arrive with your snowboard and skis in great working order.

Before you can wax your skis and put on your parka, though, you need to decide how to best protect your gear. Nothing can spoil your outdoor plans more than arriving at the resort with damaged equipment.

Know Your Options

If you plan on driving to the resort, you'll need a sturdy rack or cargo basket for your car or rental vehicle. Educate yourself well before the trip so you know what works best for your equipment.

Secondly, if you plan to fly, you'll need the right ski luggage and packing tips to keep everything safe in the plane's cargo hold.

Regardless of which way you go, you also need a plan to maximize your cargo space. Read on for further specifics so you'll buy the right product before you hit the road.

Pack Smart Before You Fly

If you cringe when you see the way baggage handlers throw your skis on the luggage carousel, it may be time to invest in a padded snowboard or ski bag. Yes, they're a bit bulkier than what you have now, but the extra protection may be worth it if your boards and skis are high end.

Keep in mind, though, that bulky ski bags don’t fit as well on standard-sized automotive ski racks. Check into larger cargo boxes or lower-profile roof carriers that allow for fat snowboards and skis.

If you have to deal with air transfers, weigh the pros and cons of a wheeled ski bag that help you get from one gate to another with ease. You'll save your back, but you may pay extra baggage fees. Decide ahead of time what matters most to you, then check with the airline. If you've done your homework, you may be able to avoid those fees by choosing a generous carrier.

Lastly, maximize your packing space by stowing extra gloves, socks, and scarves inside your ski helmet or wrapped around ski bindings. If it's a quick flight, you may even choose to wear your ski boots on the plane to save further space.

Understand How to Use Roof Racks and Cargo Boxes

No matter how you travel, at some point you'll need a vehicle with an attached roof rack, hitch rack, or cargo box. Here's what you need to know:

Racks

It's one thing to buy and install a ski rack for your personal vehicle. It's another to do a quick install on a rental vehicle. Online vehicle bookers like Orbitz allow you to request ski and luggage racks for your rental vehicle, but others may not. Check ahead, otherwise you may be forced to make do with an inflatable rack.

If you're driving your own car but don't have a rack yet, choose between these common types:

• • Roof ski rack – depending on the car model and the ski rack model, you can accommodate skis and boards easily on a roof-mounted rack.
• • Hitch ski rack – Once you match your rack to the hitch on your vehicle, it's easy to attach your skis and snowboards. Pay attention to the size of your hitch, though. It determines how much weight and length your rack can carry.

Cargo Boxes

If you plan to be on the road a long time, it's wise to consider a cargo box instead of a roof ski rack. Thule, for instance, offers cargo boxes that can carry several pairs of skis comfortably.

A cargo box is a great way to protect your skis and boards from the grime and debris of the road. You just need to decide on the best size for your vehicle, pack your gear inside, and you're off.

The Perfect Fit

If you're choosing a rack or box for your own car, your hitch dealer can help you get accurate measurements for your base rack. You'll need these so your rack will attach properly to the roof or hitch. In the case of a roof-mounted base, you'll attach this first before you mount your cargo box.

If you're getting a ski rack or box as part of your car rental, check it before you leave the rental agency to be certain it's sturdy.

Be Prepared for Wintertime Fun

Now that you know what options are best for your skis and boards, you'll have the confidence to pack equipment for the entire crew. Instead of worrying how your skis will weather the trip, you're free to think about all the fun you'll have on your trip, thanks to a great roof- or hitch-mounted carrier.

Check our blog often for more helpful towing tips and the latest Hitch City updates.