Bring or rent?
The first question is whether to fly with your own equipment at all. Renting in resort means no carrying, no airport drop-off and the chance to try newer kit. Bringing your own means skis or a board you know and trust, and boots that already fit, which many skiers say is the single biggest factor in a good day on the mountain.
A common compromise is to bring your own boots in your cabin bag or checked bag, and rent skis or a board locally. Boots are the hardest thing to replace and the most personal fit.
How to pack a ski or board bag
Use a padded bag designed for the purpose. For skis, strap them together base to base with the brakes locked, and wrap the tips and tails with clothing or foam. For snowboards, consider loosening or removing the bindings to reduce pressure points, and protect the edges.
There is often room in a ski bag for jackets, salopettes and gloves, which pad the equipment and free space in your suitcase. Check the weight, though; a heavily stuffed bag can be awkward to carry through the airport and up to a chalet.
Poles are easy to forget and easy to bend. Tape them together and slide them alongside the skis inside the bag, rather than strapping them to the outside where they can catch on conveyor belts.
Booking your equipment on AeroVista
Skis and snowboards are carried as sports equipment, priced at 45 euros per item per flight when added online. Register them at least 24 hours before departure. If you are on a Classic or Flex fare, your regular checked bag allowance is still there for your suitcase.
On the AeroVista network, Munich, Zurich, Vienna and Stuttgart are all convenient gateways for a winter trip to the Alps.
On arrival
Ski bags usually appear at the oversized baggage belt rather than the main carousel, so look for the sign. If you are taking a transfer, let the driver or company know in advance that you have skis or boards, so they bring a suitable vehicle.
Before your first run, check bindings are set correctly for your weight and ability, ideally at a local ski shop. It takes a few minutes and is a sensible safety step.
Good to know
- Carry your ski boots and helmet in the cabin if your fare allows; they are the hardest items to replace.
- Mark your ski bag with a bright strap or tag so it stands out at the oversized belt.
- Book resort rentals in advance during school holidays, when stock can run short.