10 Best Ski Backpacks 2026 in the United States

The Osprey Glade 12 is a lightweight, 12-liter backpack designed specifically for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. It stands out with a built-in 2.5-liter hydration reservoir, complete with an insulated sleeve to prevent freezing, which is a great feature for staying hydrated during cold weather activities. Its diagonal ski carry and versatile snowboard/snowshoe carry options make transporting your gear convenient, whether you're hitting tree runs or alpine tours. Made from durable, water-resistant NanoTough material, this pack is built to withstand abrasion and harsh winter conditions.

Comfort is a strong suit here, as the pack’s harness system is designed to move with you and keep weight balanced, which is vital for active snow sports. Internal pockets provide good organization for essentials like tools, gloves, or snacks, keeping them dry and easy to reach. While the 12-liter capacity is suitable for day trips and carrying essentials, it might feel tight if you need to pack bulky avalanche safety gear or extra layers for longer outings.

One area where the Glade 12 could improve is explicit avalanche safety features; it doesn't come with dedicated compartments for equipment like shovels or probes. Also, while hydration compatibility is excellent, some users might find the pack’s dimensions a bit narrow if they prefer more storage space. To sum up, the Osprey Glade 12 is an excellent choice for skiers and snowboarders looking for a comfortable, durable, and hydration-ready pack for short to moderate adventures, but those needing extensive avalanche gear storage or larger capacity might want to explore other options.

The Osprey Glade 5L is a compact and lightweight ski backpack designed mainly for short trips or day outings where you want to carry just the essentials. With a 5-liter capacity, it offers limited storage, enough for small items like your phone, keys, and a few other basics, but it is not suited for bigger gear or longer excursions. Its standout feature is the built-in 2.5L hydration reservoir, which comes with insulated tubing and harness sleeves to prevent water from freezing in cold weather—a significant advantage for staying hydrated without stopping during activity.

The backpack’s low-profile design hugs your back closely, allowing for free movement on the slopes, and the adjustable straps help improve fit and comfort. While it includes helmet-compatible gear loops for carrying extra equipment, it does not offer specialized ski or snowboard carry systems, which may be limiting if you want to transport skis hands-free. In terms of durability, the NanoTough fabric is tough and water-resistant enough to handle winter conditions and protect against snow and sharp edges. It has a simple internal stash pocket for organized access to essentials but lacks multiple compartments for more detailed organization.

This pack does not feature avalanche safety tools or dedicated storage, which might be desired by backcountry skiers. This backpack is most appropriate for skiers or snowboarders who prioritize hydration and a slim, comfortable pack for short, active days on the mountain, rather than for extended backcountry use or carrying large gear loads.

The Unigear Ski Backpack offers a solid 22-liter capacity, making it a good choice for day trips involving skiing, snowboarding, hiking, or mountaineering. Its multiple compartments, including a soft goggle pocket and space for a 14” laptop, help keep gear well organized and protected. Comfort features stand out with ergonomic S-shaped shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel that helps keep you dry during activity. The adjustable hip and sternum straps add stability and support when carrying heavier loads.

For ski and snowboard transport, the backpack includes sturdy, adjustable straps reinforced with HYPALON, and loops for ice axes or poles, which accommodate most users’ equipment. Safety-wise, it includes reflective strips and a built-in whistle on the chest strap, which are useful for visibility and emergency situations. The materials are durable and water-resistant, featuring tough 900D polyester and a scratch-resistant bottom, helping protect your belongings from snowy or rough terrain. Hydration compatibility is built-in with a compartment for a 3-liter bladder, convenient for staying hydrated on the go.

Given its 22L size, this backpack is designed primarily for day trips and may have limited space for longer or multi-day excursions that require more gear. It balances durability, comfort, and practical ski-carry options, making it a reliable choice for casual skiers and snowboarders seeking a versatile, everyday alpine pack.