How do you pack a snowboard in a car?
Most snowboards can be transported safely inside a car by folding down the rear seats and loading the board flat or diagonally, or by using a roof rack when interior space is tight. The key is to measure your space, pad the board, and secure it so it doesn’t shift during the drive.
Assessing space and choosing a method
Start by checking how long and wide the available area is with the seats up and down. If the trunk or cargo area is long enough, inside loading is the simplest option; if not, the back seat or a roof rack can be viable alternatives.
- Fold down the rear seats to create the longest possible loading area in the trunk: lay the snowboard flat with the base facing inward and the nose toward the passenger side to minimize contact with the dash; place a thick blanket under it to protect upholstery and reduce noise; secure with a strap to help keep it from shifting.
- Angle the board diagonally across the folded rear seats when the trunk opening is shorter than the board: position the nose toward the passenger-side window and the tail toward the center; pad the contact points, and use a strap around the headrests or a seat belt to prevent movement.
- Use a wagon or hatchback’s longer cargo space if available: slide the snowboard in along the floor with the board’s edge protected by a bag or blanket; store boots separately to save space and prevent damage to the interior.
Inside-loading options are straightforward and cost-effective when you have a car that can accommodate the board length with seats folded and some padding to protect surfaces.
Protecting gear and securing the load
Regardless of whether you load inside or on the roof, padding and proper restraint are essential to protect the snowboard and the vehicle’s interior and to keep the load stable on the move.
- Wrap the board in a snowboard bag or thick blankets to cushion against edges and rails while protecting the interior surfaces.
- Use edge protectors or extra padding at contact points to prevent scuffs and dings on the board.
- Place a soft layer between the board and any hard surfaces (seat backs, floor, or walls) to minimize vibration and noise.
- Secure with straps or seat belts anchored to the car’s fixed points or cargo hooks, ensuring the board cannot slide during braking or cornering; avoid obstructing airbags or visibility.
With proper padding and secure fastenings, the snowboard stays in place and the car’s interior remains protected during transit.
Roof transport: when to consider it
If interior space is too tight or you’re carrying multiple pieces of gear, roof transport offers a practical alternative. It keeps the cabin clear and distributes weight up high, but requires appropriate equipment and care.
Choosing a roof rack and carrier
Look for a snowboard-capable carrier that fits your car’s roof and crossbars, with secure clamps and, if possible, a lockable system to deter theft.
- Check the carrier’s weight rating and how much weight your car’s roof can safely support; add the board and any bindings or bag within that limit.
- Use a padded carrier or bag to protect the board’s edges from wind, vibration, and contact with the rack.
- Secure the board with at least two straps—front and rear—so it cannot shift or flip in gusts or while braking; recheck straps after a short drive.
- Be mindful of height restrictions and wind resistance, and avoid mounting on vehicles with poor aerodynamics that might affect handling.
Roof transport is especially useful for long boards or when you are carrying extra gear, but it demands careful setup and adherence to height limits and road conditions.
Summary
For many trips, folding down the rear seats and loading the snowboard inside is the quickest option, provided you pad the board and secure it well. If interior space is insufficient, a roof rack offers a reliable alternative, as long as you choose the right carrier and secure the board properly. Always measure your space, pad for protection, and secure the load to ensure a safe, hassle-free journey to the slopes.
What is the best way to travel with a snowboard?
We believe that a wheeled ski bag or snowboard bag is the best. Not only do wheeled bags make it exponentially easier to traverse airports, but they also tend to have extra room to pack your other miscellaneous ski and snowboard gear for airline travel(i.e. boots, outerwear, poles, etc.).
How to bring a snowboard in a car?
Store your skis or snowboard on a roof rack on top of your vehicle or a hitch-mounted ski rack. Alternatively, a cargo box can be a great way to transport your skis or snowboarding gear, and will keep them free of muck, grime, salt, and road spray unlike a roof rack.
Is it better to store snowboard flat or upright?
Wherever you decide you are going to be storing your board, make sure the area is cool and dry. It is best to store your gear standing up, as opposed to laying it on a flat surface. Storing your gear upright helps to preserve the camber, or shape, of the snowboard.
Is it legal to strap things to the roof of your car?
Yes, it is legal to tie something to the top of your car, but the load must be properly secured to prevent it from falling off. In all 50 states, it is illegal to transport an unsecured load, and failing to secure your cargo can result in fines, penalties, and even misdemeanor charges if it causes an accident. Your load must also not obstruct your view or be improperly tied.
Rules for securing a load on your car
- Use proper restraints: Secure your cargo with strong ropes, straps, or netting.
- Secure the load tightly: Check that items are fastened tightly and that they do not shift by pushing and pulling on them.
- Check the load often: It is crucial to stop and re-check your load after 5-10 minutes of driving and then periodically thereafter.
- Don't overload the vehicle: Be mindful of the vehicle's weight capacity, as recommended in the owner's manual.
- Keep items within legal limits: Ensure the load does not extend too far beyond the vehicle's dimensions, as this can be illegal.
- Do not block your vision: Items on the roof must not obstruct your view of the road ahead, to the sides, or to the rear.
- Cover the load: Cover any unenclosed loads, such as a mattress, with a tarp or a weatherproof cover to prevent items from blowing away.
Consequences of an unsecured load
- Fines: You can be fined for improperly secured loads.
- Accidents and injuries: Unsecured loads can cause accidents, injuries, and property damage.
- Criminal charges: In some cases, you could face misdemeanor charges or even jail time if your unsecured load causes bodily harm.
