The Gear Schlep Guide: Carrying Skis Without Chaos
Skiing is fun. Carrying ski gear through a parking lot while wearing boots? Not fun. Especially with kids.
The "gear schlep" from car to lift is one of the most frustrating parts of skiing—and it doesn't have to be. Here's how to master it.
🎿 How to Carry Skis (The Right Way)
The Shoulder Carry
- Bind skis together - Interlock the brakes or use a ski strap
- Find the balance point - Usually about 1/3 from the tips
- Lift onto shoulder - Behind your head, not on top of it
- Tips slightly up - Prevents hitting people behind you
- Other hand for poles - Or clip poles to backpack
💡 Pro Tip: The "Shuffle Walk"
In ski boots, walk with short shuffling steps, feet slightly apart. Don't try to stride normally—you'll slip or damage your boots.
Common Mistakes
- ❌ Skis on top of head (neck strain, poor balance)
- ❌ Carrying skis separately (exhausting)
- ❌ Tips pointing straight back (hits people)
- ❌ Running in ski boots (recipe for injury)
👨👩👧👦 Family Gear Schlep Strategies
Kids under 10 usually can't carry their own skis effectively. Here's how families survive:
Strategy 1: The Two-Trip
Adults carry all skis first trip, then return for kids and boots. More walking, but less chaos.
Strategy 2: The Buddy System
Each adult carries their skis + one kid's skis. Kids carry only poles. Works well for families with 2 adults, 2 kids.
Strategy 3: The Ski Carrier
Products like the Ski Shuttle or BackUp strap let you carry 4 pairs of skis on your back. Game-changer for families.
Strategy 4: Rent Slope-Side
Many resorts have rental shops AT the base. More expensive, but eliminates the schlep entirely. Pick up in the morning, drop off at end of day.
🔐 The Locker Solution
Ski lockers are the ultimate schlep-killer. Here's how to use them:
Day Lockers ($10-25/day)
- Usually near the base lodge or lift
- Store skis, boots, helmets between runs
- Take lunch breaks without hauling gear
- Prevent gear theft (it happens!)
Season Lockers ($200-500/season)
- Leave gear at the mountain all season
- Drive up in regular shoes, change at locker
- No more car schlep EVER
- Usually sell out—book early!
Locker Alternatives
- Ski checks: Some resorts offer valet-style ski storage
- Ski racks: Free, but exposed to weather and theft
- Bear boxes: Free locked storage at some Western resorts
🚗 Car-to-Lodge Hacks
The 5-Minute Rule
If your walk from car to base is longer than 5 minutes, consider paying for premium parking or lockers. The frustration cost isn't worth it.
Smart Packing Tips
- Put boots on at the car - Walk to lodge already booted
- Backpack for extras - Goggles, snacks, layers, sunscreen
- Leave valuables in car - Don't carry wallet/phone all day
- Clip poles together - One less thing to juggle
- Dry boot liners overnight - Reduces weight the next day
Drops Zones
Many resorts have designated drop-off zones where you can unload gear and family, then park. One adult drops everyone, then parks while others secure a locker spot.
🎒 Gear Worth Buying
| Product | Price | Why It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Ski straps | $5-10 | Binds skis together securely |
| Ski shoulder carrier | $20-40 | Pads shoulder, frees hands |
| Boot bag with wheels | $50-100 | Roll boots + helmet + gear |
| Ski shuttle (4-ski carrier) | $100-150 | Carry whole family's skis |
📋 Quick Reference: The Perfect Schlep
- Boot up at the car
- Strap skis together
- Shoulder carry with tips up
- Kids carry poles only
- Stash gear in locker
- Enjoy skiing without the stuff
The schlep will never be fun—but with the right strategy, it doesn't have to ruin your day.