🎿 Ski boots

Ski boots are permitted in carry-on baggage, so there is no security objection. However, they are bulky and heavy, and most airlines will require them to fit within standard overhead bin or under-seat carry-on dimensions. If they exceed your airline's size limit, gate staff will ask you to check them. Screeners may also need to run them through the X-ray separately if they do not fit neatly on the belt.

Ski boots are universally permitted as both carry-on and checked baggage from a security standpoint — there are no regional aviation restrictions on them. The variation you are likely to encounter is between individual airline carry-on size and weight policies, not between countries. Low-cost carriers in particular tend to enforce stricter size limits, making carry-on ski boots impractical on budget flights.

Most skiers check ski boots as part of a ski bag or separate hard case rather than trying to carry them on. At check-in, ski boots in a ski bag are typically accepted as sports equipment under the airline's ski equipment policy, which may involve a flat fee rather than the standard oversize baggage charge. If you do attempt to carry them on, be prepared for a gate check at busy airports where overhead space fills up quickly.

Decide before you get to the airport — checking ski boots as part of a dedicated ski bag is almost always the most practical and cost-effective approach. Many airlines offer a flat ski equipment fee that covers boots, skis, and poles together, which is often cheaper than paying individual oversize fees. If you only have boots and no skis, a hard-shell boot bag provides the best protection in the hold.