Best Snowboard Backpacks for 2021 – We Review The Top 5 Products

Planning on a snowboarding trip? Not only do you need to bring your board but your supplies as well. Don’t just use any backpack, use a snowboard backpack to carry all your gear. The best snowboard backpacks are made from the best quality materials that will take the weight and the pressure of all your supplies and board. The best one will have enough pockets to keep your stuff organized and safe. Choose a bag that offers good support especially on the shoulders as snowboarding gear can be pretty heavy. Here are our top choices for the best backpacks for snowboarding this year.

The Top 5 Snowboard Backpacks for 2021

We have five of the best snowboard backpacks for 2021 ready to take your gear and board to your destination. We know you’ll find the best backpack for your needs from our list.

Dakine Heli Pro 24 Liter Winter Adventure Backpack

Star Rating: 4.8 out of 5 

Best 24-Liter Winter Adventure Backpack from Dakine 

Features:

  • This snowboard backpack is available in many colors.
  • You can carry your snowboard vertically or horizontally.
  • This backpack comes with many internal and external pockets to keep you prepared and organized.

Product Specs:

  • Dimensions: 23 x 13.5 x 1.5 inches, 2 pounds
  • Weight Capacity: 24 liters
  • Material: durable materials, fleece lining for pockets
  • Special Features: Lifetime warranty, snowboard carrying options, A-frame, different pockets, hydration sleeve, back panel, hip belt, safety whistle, sternum strap
  • Accessories: rescue whistle

The Dakine Heli Pro adventure backpack is designed to keep your snowboard safe and secure whether you want to keep it vertically or horizontally. It also comes with unique features to carry other items such as a ski carrying frame, helmet carrying system, and snow tool pockets plus sleeves. 

This backpack will help you stay organized and be prepared for your trip. It comes with large pockets with efficient fleece lining to keep your stuff protected. It also has external and internal pockets to keep smaller items. An insulated hydration sleeve is also included so you won’t get thirsty on longer trips.

The backpack is easy to carry, comfortable, and has a dry mesh back equipped with padding. This also comes with a wider 38-mm hip belt that will keep the backpack secure. Finally, a safety rescue whistle is attached to the sternum strap in case you ever need to call for help. 

Pros:

  • This backpack allows you to carry your snowboard horizontally or vertically. 
  • You can also carry other supplies and gear including your helmet, tools, skis, and more. 
  • With a hip belt and back panel for enhanced support.
  • You can choose from four different colors.
  • Comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

Cons:

  • Complaints that this backpack is too tall.
  • Does not come with a hydration bladder; you need to purchase this separately.

Thule Upslope Ski and Snowboard Backpack

Star Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars

Best Ski and Snowboard Backpack from Thule

Features:

  • This comes with an airbag-ready pack, available in two colors. 
  • With easy-to-use, on-the-go storage and access features for gloves, skins, bottles, etc.
  • Comes with an adjustable carrying loop to avoid snagging.

Product Specs:

  • Weight Capacity: 35-liter
  • Material: very durable materials
  • Special Features: airbag-ready, snow storage area, insulated hydration sleeve, with ski or snowboard attachments, helmet storage, top pocket, quick access pockets, side pockets, and back panel entry.
  • Accessories:  sold separately – Mammut Removable Airbag 3.0 system plus cartridge 

The Thule Upslope is a ski and snowboarding backpack. It is made from the most durable materials which will never tear or wear even when frequently used. It offers access to all the stuff and the gear you need whether you’re skiing or snowboarding.

You can access your gear from the bottom of the bag or you can keep your helmet, water bottles, gloves, and skins inside spacious pockets. There are provisions at the bottom or at the sides of this backpack to hold your helmet without any bouncing.

Meanwhile, there are insulated hydration sleeves plus reservoir pockets to prevent the hose from crimping and water inside from freezing. This is not kept inside the bag so you won’t have to worry about tears and leaks. 

You can carry any size of snowboard or skis as it comes with width-adjustable loops. A separate compartment inside the bag keeps all your dry gear especially your snow tools.  It is airbag-ready and is compatible with the Mammut Removable Airbag 3.0 system. 

Pros:

  • This backpack is compatible with airbag systems and helmets.
  • It has an insulated hydration system that’s not found inside the main compartment. 
  • It comes with plenty of pockets to keep all your stuff. 
  • You can separate your tools and your gear safely and efficiently. 
  • This can fit all types and sizes of snowboards.

Cons:

  • Complaints that the bag material is too thin.
  • Complaints that the bag is heavy even when empty.

Burton Kilo 2.0 Backpack

Star Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars 

Best 2-Kilo Backpack from Burton

Features:

  • This backpack is available in more than 10 different colors.
  • It is made from very durable and flexible polyester. 
  • It comes with ergonomic shoulder straps and sternum straps.

Product Specs:

  • Dimensions: 22 x 16 x 4 inches, 1.46 pounds
  • Weight Capacity: 27 liters
  • Material: 100% polyester
  • Special Features: with front vertical closures and accessory pockets, laptop compartment, webbing skate carrying straps, water bottle pocket, fleece-lined pockets.  

The Burton Kilo 2.0 Backpack is a versatile backpack available in many colors and is made from very strong, waterproof polyester. It can take as much as 2 kilos of weight without buckling thanks to its strong material and ergonomic features.

The shoulder straps are designed to support the body even when you’re carrying a full bag. It also has an adjustable sternum strap to help you carry the backpack effortlessly. Meanwhile, there are multiple pockets in varying sizes which you can use to keep all kinds of items. 

The Burton Backpack is covered by a lifetime warranty which gives you more value for your money.

Pros:

  • This snowboard backpack is made from very durable materials that will keep its shape even in constant use.
  • It comes with an ergonomic shoulder strap and sternum straps to help you carry a heavy bag.
  • With fleece-lined pockets and an internal mesh pocket to keep your stuff safe and organized.

Cons:

  • You need an organizer to keep your things well-organized inside the bag.

USWE Hajker 30L Winter Backpack

Star Rating: 3.7 out of 5 stars

Best Waterproof Roll Top Adventure Daypack from USWE

Features:

  • This backpack has large capacity storage of up to 30 liters.
  • This bag comes with 11 pockets (interior and exterior pockets) to keep you organized and ready.
  • With a very comfortable harness system, good fit, and ventilated back panel. 

Product Specs:

  • Weight Capacity: 30 liters, also available in 18 and 247-liter backpacks
  • Material: ROBIC EXTREEMA Superlight fabric, Thermo Cell shoulder straps
  • Special Features: waterproof opening, hydration-compatible, insulated sleeve, 11 different kinds of pockets, insulated shoulder straps, 4-point harness system, designed for all types of outdoor winter sports. 
  • Accessories: waterproof dry sack, bladder sleeve, waist support belt, 

The USWE Hajker is a hiking backpack and daypack made from waterproof materials. It is a large 30-liter bag that’s very light and durable. It is versatile and is compatible with hydration systems that have insulated bladders up to 3 liters or 100 ounces. However, the water reservoir system is not included; you need to purchase this separately.

You’ll get 11 pockets to help you get organized for your trip. There are zippered side pockets and quick-stash pockets to keep small items.  Meanwhile, you’ll also get a waterproof ID or passport pocket so you won’t leave these at the hotel. 

The shoulder straps are insulated to keep your drink from freezing. It also has a harness system to avoid bouncing and other unnecessary movements. You’ll move easily, comfortably, and snugly. And to keep you comfortable there is a ventilated back panel and easy-to-use waist support. 

Pros:

  • This backpack is made from very light and very durable fabric.
  • With a removable and waterproof dry sack to keep your things dry and protected. 
  • With a lot of pockets to keep your stuff organized and safe. 
  • Will keep your beverage ready to drink and at the correct temperature.
  • Very comfortable to use.

Cons:

  • You need to buy the beverage bladder separately.
  • Complaints that the bag is already heavy when empty.

Dakine Heli Pro 20Liter Snowboard and Ski Backpack

Star Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars 

Best Snowboard and Ski Backpack from Dakine

Features:

  • This is a large snowboard backpack.
  • You can use this backpack to carry your snowboard vertically or horizontally.
  • With fleece-lined pockets to protect your valuables. 

Product Specs:

  • Dimensions: 21 x 5.5 x 11 inches, 1.1 pounds
  • Weight Capacity: 20 liters
  • Material: very durable materials, fleece liner
  • Special Features: you can carry your board vertically or horizontally, fleece-lined pockets, hydration pocket, with non-padded laptop sleeve, rescue whistle
  • Accessories: rescue whistle

The Dakine Heli Pro is a 20-liter snowboard and skiing backpack available in lovely, solid grey. It comes with a comfortable shoulder strap that secures the bag on your back minus any strain. It has many pockets including a non-padded laptop sleeve that fits 15-inch laptops. 

This backpack will only carry your snowboard vertically but skis may be carried diagonally. You can use standard hydration systems but it’s not insulated so your drink may freeze in extremely low temperatures. 

It can also double as a regular daytime backpack or a school backpack. But out in the slopes, this can carry almost any standard snowboard size. 

Pros:

  • Comes with multiple pockets and a laptop sleeve.
  • Compatible with hydration systems.
  • With a sternum strap to secure the bag on your body at all times. 

Cons:

  • It can’t carry a snowboard horizontally.
  • It has a non-padded laptop sleeve.

Buyer’s Guide

A good snowboard backpack will allow you to carry your precious snowboard up the slopes safely and more efficiently. You need to find a backpack that will help you carry other essentials for your travel like clothing, headgear, gloves, maps, electronics, and personal items. As much as possible, choose a backpack that can carry the most weight but without compromising your comfort and ease of movement. 

Whether you’re new to shopping for a good backpack for snowboarding or you’re looking for something to replace an old backpack, let us help you with a few buying tips.

  • Backpack style

Despite a bag’s style a matter of personal preference, it’s also important to note that some backpack styles are more comfortable, more ergonomic than others. It’s also important to point out some important points that you might overlook like backpack colors. 

Choose colors that match your style and at the same time, bright ones that will allow people to easily see you on the slopes. Choose comfortable backpacks, mounted safely on your body and are secured by straps and belts. Remember, you’ll be moving around more as you ascend the slopes so the bag should be secured very well against your body.

  • Material

The most common material used in snowboard backpacks is polyester because of its durability and versatility. You should select bags made from abrasion-resistant fabric t which will stand for many uses. Check the stitching; double-stitched materials are more durable.

A backpack made from waterproof materials is also important as you may have to work on wet snow.  

  • Backpack capacity and size

You need a backpack that can carry all your essentials but we recommend that you bring along only important items necessary for the activity. Take note that a large and heavy backpack will only be too tiresome to carry and may affect your balance. Select backpacks with many pockets to keep items of different sizes. 

When it comes to snowboard backpack sizes, consider the items you’ll be carrying and the type of gear you want to use. The following are the most common ones you’ll find online:

  • 10 to 20-liter backpacks – these are small to medium-sized backpacks that are best for day rides. You can also use this backpack for other sports or casual activities. 
  • 20 to 35-liter backpacks – you’ll find day riders using this size backpack as it can take all the gear you need for a day.  Backpacks this size come with many pockets and good ergonomic shoulder straps to carry heavier stuff. 
  • 35 to 55-liter backpacks – these backpacks are not just for snowboarding but also for touring the slopes. You can carry all kinds of gear including packs of food and water. 
  • 60 to 70-liter backpacks – these are the largest snowboard backpacks and can be pretty heavy when full. You can’t take a heavy backpack like this when you ride your snowboard so this is best to leave at your destination instead. 
  • Backpacks and torso size

Consider your torso size when selecting the right size of a backpack. A backpack with adjustable straps over the torso is better so you’ll be more comfortable every time you use it. Meanwhile, some backpacks are specially designed to fit women. 

  • Storage and pockets

Go for a backpack that has all kinds of storage so you can keep organized. As much as possible the large pockets should accommodate your gear and smaller pockets for smaller items like your phone, compass, chargers, flashlights, tickets, money, etc.

If you can wear the backpack to check if it’s a good fit, try it. It must have extra belts as well as straps along the waist to reduce weight or pressure on your shoulders. Some backpacks come with separate belts while some already have these features. 

The pockets must be easy to access, with durable zipper closures and locking systems, especially for the main compartment. 

  • Ease of access

The worst thing that can happen is you need to find something from your bag and you need to unbuckle and open your bag to take it out. This is such a hassle and will only compromise your safety on the slopes. 

You should choose backpacks with wider openings, a rear opening, or larger pockets at the front or sides to accommodate all kinds of items or gear. Also, the backpack pockets should be separated from each other for easy access. Tight pockets will only make it harder to take things from inside the bag. 

  • Overall comfort

The backpack should be comfortable and easy to use. Your shoulders should be relaxed with no pressure felt on the area. The chest and waist straps should be adjustable to help promote comfort and safety. 

  • Other important features 

Some snowboard backpacks are better than others because of the following unique features: 

  • Hydration systems – some bags are compatible with some hydration systems or packs while some come only with pockets for your hydration bottles and flasks. 
  • Additional access zippers – additional back and side access would be great especially if you have a lot of gear. With a top access backpack, you need to remove all the items at the top to get to the ones at the bottom or sides. 
  • Helmet carrying systems – this is a small but very significant feature. A helmet carry holds your helmet when this is not in use. It secures your helmet and prevents bouncing. This feature may look different from one manufacturer to another so find one that will suit your needs. 
  • Airbags – in case of avalanches, backpacks with built-in airbags will help you survive or prevent serious injuries. However, not all bags have this feature and those who do, are heavier than ordinary snowboard backpacks.  But if you wish to have this feature, you may add one using a removable airbag system.  

FAQS

The following are the most frequently asked questions and their answers about shopping and how to use snowboard backpacks.

  • What is a snowboarder’s backpack?

A snowboarder’s backpack is a backpack designed to carry a large snowboard. It has straps and pockets to carry tools and compartments to hold hydration systems, first aid kits, and other kinds of gear. Because snowboarding is a dangerous sport, some riders add features like airbags to keep you safe in case of an avalanche. 

  • Do you need a backpack or travel bag for a snowboard?

You can use other types of backpacks but for a safe and more efficient trip, it’s best to use a snowboarding backpack. This bag can help you easily carry your board plus, you can take all kinds of gear including food, clothing, accessories, hiking gear, and many more. 

  • What do you need to bring when you’re snowboarding or skiing for a day?

When you’re just out for a day to snowboard, bring the following: a thermal flask, lunch, hand warmers, gloves (with touchscreen tips), skiing/snowboarding sunglasses, waterproof phone case, and other needed electronics. 

  • Can you ride a plane even when your snowboard is not inside a backpack?

Most domestic and international airlines allow people to travel with their snowboards but these have to be checked. You can’t travel with your snowboard in the plane’s cabin.

  • Where do you place your cellphone when you’re snowboarding?

Cellphones should be placed inside the chest pocket of your jacket. Don’t place it inside your backpack as it’s harder to retrieve it in case you need to make a call. 

Conclusion

From our list of the best snowboard backpacks, we recommend the Dakine Heli Pro adventure backpack and the Thule Upslope ski and snowboarding backpack. These backpacks will keep your snowboard safe and secure as well as all other gear that you’ll need on the slopes. With these bags, you can carry helmets, snow tools, and hydration packs without freezing. 

These laptops will help you get organized and safe. These come with ergonomic features so you can carry a heavy backpack more efficiently. Meanwhile, the Thule Upslope allows expansion with a Mammut Airbag system. This way, you can be safe on the slopes even during an avalanche. 

There are many features you should watch out for when selecting the best snowboard backpacks. But make sure you’re buying a bag that suits your needs, the things you’ll need, and your budget.