Top 5 Backpacks for Skiers

Whether you're in the backcountry or resort, a good ski backpack is worth its weight in gold. Some of our team have bags that have been with them for over 10 years and are more treasured than their skis!

It’s worth bearing in mind that most ski backpacks will happily double as hiking or work bags too. If you’re only at the snow for a week or two a year, an allround bag is a great option.

Things to consider when choosing a ski backpack

Size: A fundamental when choosing a bag. Consider how much gear you plan to carry, and what else you’ll use your bag for. Be careful not to go too big, otherwise, you’ll tend to pack the kitchen sink and end up with an unnecessarily heavy bag. For a day bag, something in the 18-25l range would be ideal. This will give you space for water bottles or a bladder, some food, a spare layer and a few other bits of kit.

Straps: This is down to personal preference but a single strap across the chest, or double strap across the chest and waist will help to keep your bag securely in place. You’ll find heaps of options, some with no padding, others with heaps. If possible try a few on to see what you like.

Pockets: A handy pocket for things you need quick access to will have you thanking your bag for years to come. At least one top, front or strap pockets is essential, and ideally an inner or hidden pocket for valuables. A well-placed clip inside a pocket for your keys is an added bonus too (believe us, once you start using it, you won’t know how you lived without it).

Technical gear: If you like to head out into the backcountry, a specific backcountry bag is a good option. They’ll typically have designated spaces for probes and beacons so you can easily get to your gear as needed.

Hydration: Whether you prefer a water bottle or reservoir, having a designated space for your hydration is a great option. If you’re opting for bottles, ensure that the bottle holders are tall enough that your bottles will fit snuggly and not topple out, even if the elastic stretches as the bag ages.

Our top picks

We’ve chosen our favourite ski bags for this season. They’re all from top-quality snow brands and include the essentials we’d expect from our ski bag.

Best Women’s Bag: Osprey Sopris 20
The Sopris has been cleverly designed for all day comfort, making your bag feel genuinely lighter with its clever weight distribution. There are plenty of pockets, space for tools and spare kit, plus the option to attach your skis to the back. Osprey have a number of great bag options for women, but this is our favourite for this season.

Fan Favourite: Dakine Heli Pro
The Heli Pro comes in a range of sizes from 12L, 20L or 24L and is available in Mens and women's variants. Nearly everyone you know has one or has had one in the past. They're a great bag for day-to-day use and can easily transfer onto the ski slopes whether you're a social skier on the mountain storing snacks and spare lenses or a seasoned pro who regularly heads out of bounds. These bags are equipped with plenty of pockets to carry a shovel, probe, goggles and essentials for a fun day in the BC

Best Hydration Pack: CamelBak Lobo (2L) 9

If you’re looking for something small to keep you moving all day long the Lobo is the ideal companion. It will take a 2L water reservoir with space for a few essentials - ideal for those who want to ride fast and hard all day, without being weighed down.

Allrounder: Evoc Line 20 Backpack

A lightweight but sturdy bag with a first-class fit. Although it’s built for skiing and snowboarding, it will serve you well for most outdoor pursuits with its body-hugging fit. It has all of the attachments you’ll need for a full day in the snow whether you’re heading to the backcountry or staying on piste.

CarryAll: Volkl Team Pro 52

The most technical bag to come out of the Volkl design department, this bag has every feature for a day on snow whether it's a day with the family, racing or backcountry. It also has a hydration compartment and ski-carrying system along with a spot for your laptop so it makes a great school bag too!