7 Best Ski Bags

We all know that skis can be quite expensive. In fact, around $600 for a new pair. So much so, that you always need to work hard to keep them protected. There are several ways to do that, but one of the most efficient (and effective) is through a quality ski bag.

Ski bags have been around a long, long time, and they still serve as the best way to transport your skis on a trip. However, trying to figure out which one to get is not an easy decision. There are many bags out on the current market, and they all bring something different to the table.

This buying guide breaks down the best ski bags on the market right now. Each of the following options does something unique in a way that makes it stand out from the pack.

The next sections will cover what those features are, and then break down other important aspects to help you decide which specific bag is best suited for you.

Read on to learn more!

Who Should Get This

Just about every single skier who likes to travel needs a good bag. You can’t just throw your skis into the car or carry them onto a plane. They need to be stored inside something. Preferably something that protects them from bumps in the road or being handled by TSA. A good bag does all of that and more.

The following models outlined in this guide are also great items for skiers who tend to have a lot of gear. While some bags only store skis, high-end options usually have a lot of extra room for your other items like gloves, goggles, and helmets.

Many also have pockets. That gives you a single place to store all of your items, cutting down on wasted space and saving you energy.

A good bag is also handy for skiers who don’t have a lot of storage. During the off-season, it’s easy to forget that you leaned your skis up in the garage or left them sitting among a bunch of items in the attic.

Then, when it’s time to hit the slopes, they have a lot of new dents and dings. Storing them in a heavy-duty bag when they’re not in use prevents that damage and gives you an extra layer of protection.

The Best Ski Bags Reviewed

Here is a list of my top recommendations along with a quick review of each ski bag. The goal is to help you get to know the pros and cons of each product so you can make an informed decision.

1. Best All-Around: AmazonBasics Single Padded Ski Bag

This Single Padded Ski Bag from Amazon might not be the most advanced option on the market, but it does a little bit of everything.

The thick foam padding protects your skis from drops and bumps, while the waterproof backing keeps them dry. The handles are padded, making them easy to carry, while the strong construction ensures this product will hold up for years. The self-repairing nylon zippers also make opening and closing the bag a breeze.

It can hold 1 pair of cross-country skis or downhill skis up to 67 inches (170 cm), and while it is not the best option for those who want to store a lot of extra gear, the compact design makes this a great choice for skiers who want an easy-to-carry bag that will last through any trip.

What We Like:

• End-to-end padded interior
• High-density 1680D denier dual weave polyester
• Self-repairing nylon coil zipper
• Versatile, great for both car and plane travel
• Padded handles for easy carry
• Tight, compact design
• Pockets

What We Don’t Like:

• Can be a bit tight
• Thick foam absorbs shocks and impacts
• Design might be a bit too basic for some

2. Also Great: High Sierra Padded Single

This High Sierra bag, as the name suggests, is a fantastic single ski bag. It has a special water-resistant coating and features a sturdy diamond-ripstop construction that makes it resistant to tears.

On top of that, it has internal padding to protect your skis and features extra-long, padded handles that can be carried or used as shoulder straps depending on your preference. The quick-release compression straps also work to hold everything in place.

This soft-shelled model is incredibly durable, thanks to its diamond-ripstop, 600-denier duralite construction. It also has a water-resistant coating, making it perfect for skiers who want to brave tough conditions. On top of that, the bag comes with two handles that make it easy to carry or throw over your shoulder.

What We Like:

• Diamond-ripstop construction
• Water-resistant
• Quick-release compression strap
• Internal padding
• Long handles can be worn over the shoulder
• Padded handles

What We Don’t Like:

• No wheels
• Lining could be more durable

3. Best Protective: Sportube Series 1 Travel Case

The Sportube Series 1 Travel Case is all about protection. Sturdy and durable, the hard-shell bag can hold two pairs of Nordic skis or one pair of alpine (along with the poles).

It also has roller wheels and a pull handle, making it easy to move around a large resort or airport. The five-year limited warranty ensures your investment stays protected as well. While this model is more expensive than softer bags, the price is more than worth it.

This bag goes above and beyond when it comes to protection, offering a light polyethylene hard-shell on the outside, and full padding on the inside. It can also hold two pairs of Nordic skis for cross country skiers, and comes with both roller wheels and pull handle. Great for skiers who travel.

What We Like:

• Hard shell
• Durable-but-light polyethylene construction
• Padded at both ends
• Lock provides extra security
• Wheels and pull handle
• Easy to transport
• 5-year limited warranty

What We Don’t Like:

• Not a lot of extra room
• On the expensive side

4. Largest Option: Thule Roundtrip

If you want extra room, no bag provides you with more space than the Thule Roundtrip. Not only can you fit in your skis and poles, but there is also room for extra gear like boots, helmets, gloves, and goggles.

The ski sleeves keep everything organized, while the padded divider protects them from any bumps or scrapes. The structural reinforcements prevent sagging, while the lockable zippers give you another layer of protection.

This heavy-duty item is not just wide, it can hold everything in your arsenal. That includes skis, boots, helmets, goggles, and whatever else you can fit inside. The wheels make it easy to move around, and the lockable zippers ensure you stay safe from would-be thieves. The structural reinforcements are also a nice touch.

What We Like:

• Structural reinforcements prevent sagging
• Sturdy construction
• Incredibly roomy
• Lockable zippers
• S-shaped zippers for easy retrieval
• Internal compression straps
• Padded ski sleeves
• Wheels

What We Don’t Like:

• A bit bulky
• May be too much room for some skiers

5. Best Looking: Dakine Padded Ski