Flying with a snowboard is always exciting because it means you are headed somewhere fun to enjoy one of the best activities on earth. But if you’ve never traveled with your gear before, it can be a bit intimidating.
I’ve been an avid snowboarder for decades, and I’ve been lucky to have had the opportunity to travel all over the world chasing fresh snow. I’ve flown with a snowboard many times and know through first-hand experience how to do it.
This post will show you how to fly with a snowboard. I’ll provide you with some tips to keep in mind to pack your board correctly and some other helpful information.
Let’s get going.
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Can You Bring a Snowboard on a Plane?
I have yet to encounter an airline that doesn’t allow snowboards on a plane. You will need to check the board as luggage and store it underneath rather than carry it on, but this is very common and easy to do.
Some airlines have luggage length restrictions, so you might need to pay extra to bring your board on a flight if it’s long. But there are other companies that don’t have this, and you can bring your board just like any other piece of luggage.
How Much Does it Cost to Take a Snowboard on a Plane?
The cost of taking a snowboard on a plane depends on the airline. Typically you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $100. But there are a lot of airlines that don’t charge you for a snowboard because it’s just like another piece of luggage.
You should always check the luggage rules of the airline you are flying to know for sure. Bringing your own board is almost always cheaper than renting gear every day during your trip, so even if it does cost of bit, you’ll still save money in the long run.
How Do You Protect Your Snowboard on a Plane?
The best way to protect your snowboard on a plane is to get a good snowboard bag. A bag will give you extra padding that will keep your board and anything else you pack inside of it safe and secure, even if it’s mishandled or moved around in the air.
Snowboard bags come in many styles. You can get a simple option that offers a bit of added protection or a large bag that gives you the ability to carry multiple boards and a bunch of other equipment. If you travel often, a snowboard bag is a must.
How to Fly with a Snowboard
Here are a few important things to keep in mind when flying with a snowboard. While there isn’t an exact way to do this, knowing the information in this section will help you have an easy experience in the air.
1. Check Baggage Rules with the Airline
You always want to check in with the airline rules of the company you are flying with before getting on board. This will help you know what it can cost to get your snowboard on the plane and if particular regulations apply.
2. Get a Snowboard Bag and Pack it Well
A snowboard bag is a must for anyone flying with their board. A bag will help keep your board protected from damage during the flight and allow you to bring extra equipment if you want to. It’s an easy and effective way to provide added peace of mind.
A good snowboard bag also serves as a suitcase. You can pack your cold-weather clothing and other gear and items that you’ll need for your snowboarding trip. Some even allow you to hold several boards at once.
The key to packing a snowboard bag well is to pack your snowboard and other hard items (like a helmet) first. Once those are secure, you can fill in the remaining space with softer items like clothing.
Make sure that all straps and zippers are properly closed, and double-check that you have everything you want to bring with you before zipping it up.
3. Check the Bag and Enjoy the Ride
Once you have your bag properly packed up, all you need to do is hand it off to the checked bag area at the airport. Airline personnel will take things from there and ensure your board gets to its final destination.
FAQs
Here are a few quick answers to some of the most common questions about flying with a snowboard.
Can I fly with a snowboard without a bag?
I would not recommend flying without a snowboard bag. While this is technically possible, you are just asking for damage if you do so. You never want your snowboard to go through the rigors of the baggage process without a bit of protection.
Do snowboards fly free on Southwest?
Snowboards do fly for free on Southwest. This airline has one of the best luggage policies around, and as long as your snowboard bag doesn’t weigh over 50 pounds, you shouldn’t have any issues with getting it onboard for free.
Is a snowboard oversized baggage?
Whether or not a snowboard is considered oversized luggage depends on the airline you are flying with. Most boards are not long enough to be considered oversized, but it might be if you have a long board or a huge snowboard bag.
Final Thoughts
Flying with a snowboard is easy, and you don’t really need to do anything special to make it happen. Getting a good snowboard bag is always recommended, and make sure to check in with your airline for any specific regulations relating to oversized equipment.
Other than that, just sit back and enjoy the ride. People travel with snowboards all the time, and any snowboard trip is a reason to celebrate.
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