Quick Answer
✅ Yes. TSA allows skis in checked luggage.
❌ Skis are not allowed in carry-on due to size.
⚠️ Airlines treat ski equipment as oversized sports baggage, but many include 1 ski bag + 1 boot bag as a single checked item.
Details
- Carry-on:
- Skis and poles are too large for carry-on.
- Ski boots alone may be carried on if packed separately.
- Checked luggage:
- Skis, poles, and boots are allowed if packed in ski bags or hard cases.
- Many airlines allow one ski/snowboard bag + one boot bag as a single checked piece.
- Airline fees:
- Policies vary: some include skis in standard baggage allowance, while others charge sports equipment fees.
- Oversized or overweight bags may incur additional charges.
- International flights:
- Most carriers allow skis but with strict length/weight limits (commonly 50 lbs / 23 kg).
TSA Ski Rules Summary
| Ski Equipment | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Skis / poles | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Ski boots (separate bag) | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Ski bag with boots included | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed (often counts as 1 item) |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ Boots in carry-on: Boots may be carried separately to avoid overweight fees.
- ✈️ Packing required: Use padded bags to protect skis/poles from damage.
- ✈️ Airline rules differ: Some airlines waive fees, others charge up to $150 for oversized ski gear.
- ✈️ International travel: Double-check ski length limits — very long skis may exceed standard baggage dimensions.
Sources
- TSA – What Can I Bring? (Sports Equipment)
- Airline baggage policies (Delta, United, American, Lufthansa, Swiss).