Skis
Skis aren't allowed in carry-on because of their length and metal edges and must be packed in checked baggage.
Carry-on
Not allowed
Checked
Allowed
Carry-on details
Not allowed. Skis are too long for carry-on and have exposed metal edges, so TSA and every airline require them to travel in checked baggage, the same as ski poles.
Checked-bag details
Allowed. Skis are a standard checked item on nearly all airlines. U.S. carriers typically count one pair of skis plus a boot bag as a single checked item.
Special instructions
Pack skis in a padded ski bag to protect the edges and bindings, and check your airline's winter-sports equipment policy — size and weight limits for ski bags can differ from standard checked-baggage rules, and some airlines apply a separate fee.
FAQ
- Can I bring skis in carry-on if I remove the bindings?
- No — the length of a full-size ski alone exceeds carry-on size limits, regardless of the bindings, so skis must always be checked.
- Do skis and poles need to be packed together?
- They don't have to be, but most travelers pack skis and poles in the same padded ski bag, which most airlines count as one checked item.
Related items
Source: TSA — What Can I Bring? · Last verified: 2026-07-31
Final decision rests with the security officer at the checkpoint.