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A ski holiday in March in Europe offers many advantages: the days are getting longer, the slopes are emptier and many ski areas attract people with varied events. To shorten the travel time to the mountains, winter sports enthusiasts can also travel to the ski area by plane. If you are afraid of a lack of snow, you can also take a further route and travel to the Rocky Mountains in the USA, for example - an incredible amount and quality of snow is guaranteed there.
But how can you transport your snowboard or skis on a plane? Traveling with special luggage can be quite a challenge as there are some special rules and different airline procedures that sports enthusiasts should be aware of and follow. The travel tech company AirHelp informs travelers: This is what you should keep in mind if you want to take skis or snowboards with you on the plane:
- Check Airline Policies: Different airlines have different policies for transporting sports equipment. Before you travel, check the specific policies of the airline you are flying with. These guidelines typically list permitted exercise equipment, size and weight restrictions, and associated fees. You can find the regulations of some airlines here.
- Pack Properly: Make sure your sports equipment is securely packed to avoid damage during transportation. If necessary, use appropriate packing materials such as padding, bubble wrap, or hard case. Remove removable parts and pack them separately if necessary.
- Know size and weight restrictions: Pay attention to the size and weight restrictions that the airline imposes on sports equipment. Oversized or heavy items may incur additional fees or require special handling arrangements.
- Declare your equipment: When you check in for your flight, you must declare your sports equipment to the flight attendants. Be specific about the type of equipment you are carrying, its dimensions, and any special handling requirements.
- Special handling: Some airlines offer special handling services for sports equipment such as skis and snowboards. Take advantage of these services when they are available as they can help ensure your equipment is transported safely.
- Check for Restrictions: Certain types of sports equipment may be subject to additional restrictions or regulations, particularly if they contain hazardous materials or pose safety concerns. Inquire about specific restrictions that may apply to your equipment.
- Arrive early: Arrive at the airport early so that you have enough time for check-in and any additional formalities for your sports equipment. This way you can ensure that your equipment is handled properly and loaded onto the aircraft on time.
- Consider Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover your sports equipment against loss, damage or theft during transport. This gives you peace of mind and financial protection in the event of unforeseen incidents.
- Check your luggage upon arrival: Upon arrival at your destination, inspect your sports equipment for damage or signs of mishandling. If you notice anything, report it to the airline immediately and document the damage with photos if possible.
This is what travelers need to know if their sports equipment goes missing
“When it comes to luggage with sports equipment, people usually travel for a specific reason: they want to spend their time enjoying winter sports activities in a ski resort. If snowboards or skis are not at the airport upon arrival, vacationers cannot enjoy the actual purpose of the trip. Therefore, those affected should first rent the equipment they need until the luggage is delivered - even if this is the entire period. Athletes can then claim the rental fee from the airline. It is important to keep the receipt,” explains Nina Staub, legal expert at AirHelp.
Staub adds: “If snowboards or skis don’t show up within 21 days, travelers can request a refund equal to the value of the equipment in addition to the rental fee. This is done as part of the normal lost baggage process. Proof of purchase of the item may be required. Buying a new snowboard at the airline's expense is definitely not a solution. This option typically applies to essential items, such as everyday clothing and toiletries.”
