The Best Surfboard Travel Bags of 2024: The Ultimate Guide
Planning your next surf trip? Don’t count on your airline to protect your gear! If there’s one thing that baggage handlers hate, it’s surfboards or at least bulky baggage.
And I get it, it’s heavy, uncomfortable to carry, and just makes their work that much harder. But, as a surfer, I don’t appreciate the fact that my surfboard might break just because it’s a bit heavy for anyone to carry.
Believe me, if I could, I’d take it with me to the plane, but the head compartments are usually too small for it, haha.
Your gear deserves a travel bag that’s as rugged and reliable as the waves you’ll be chasing. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best one?
In this guide, I’ll review the best surfboard travel bags of 2024, focusing on durability, storage capacity, and special features that make these bags stand out.
Whether you’re planning a long surf trip or a quick weekend, I’ve got you covered!
Best For Long Run
Best Budget Friendly
Best Overall
What to Look for in a Surfboard Travel Bag
What makes for the perfect surfboard travel bag? With so many options on the shelf, this question is a bit hard to answer. But I’ll break down the process that I go through when choosing my next surf bag.
Durability
The most important board bag feature is, by far, durability. It’s going to be tossed around in the airport, stuffed into car trunks, and maybe even strapped to the top of a bus or two.
Look for materials like high-density polyester or heavy-duty nylon. These are built to withstand the wear and tear of travel.
Padding
A good surfboard bag has plenty of padding to protect your board from dings and cracks. Some bags come with extra-thick padding around the nose and tail, which is where your board is most vulnerable.
Trust me, the extra cushion is worth it. On that note, I ALWAYS suggest stuffing extra padding like bubble wrap and foam to keep your board safe.
Storage Compartments
This is straightforward. Does it have any storage compartments for other surf accessories, such as leashes, wax, and fins?
Most have at least one zipper compartment for your surf accessories, but some have much more storage space.
Size And Weight
As for the size of your board bag, consider buying one a few inches bigger than your surfboard. If you have a 5’11” surfboard, consider buying a 6’0”/ 6’1” board bag.
A lightweight bag might be easier to carry, but if it’s too flimsy, it won’t protect your board. On the other hand, a heavy-duty bag will offer more protection but might be cumbersome to carry.
Pro Tip:
Consider bags with wheels for added convince and ease of transport!
Price
Lastly, consider your budget. It’s easy to go for the cheapest option, but consider your surfboard bag an investment. It’s a one-time purchase that will last you for years to come, especially if you take care of it.
Also, don’t confuse day bags with surfboard travel bags. They are usually cheaper, less durable, and meant to keep your board protected from the sun and small dings.
The Best Surfboard Travel Bags
Here’s a rundown of the top surf travel bags of 2024 that are making waves in the surfing community. In no particular order I should say.
1. Dakine John John Florence Quad Surfboard Bag
Dakine John John Florence Quad
It holds three boards, with foam padding and ripstop fabric for protection. A heat-reflective bottom and heavy-duty zippers ensure durability, while internal pockets keep your gear organized. Ready for any trip. Designed with the help of the legend himself Jhon Jhon Florence!
Pros
Cons
Overall, this is a really good travel bag. At around $400, it’s a pretty good deal considering its quality.
What I love about this bag is how well it balances protection with weight—it’s not too heavy to haul around, even when fully loaded. Plus, it comes in three different sizes 6’0”, 6’6” and 7’0” making it great for shortboard or fish boards quiver.
2. FCS Travel 3 All-Purpose Surfboard Bag
FCS Travel 3 All-Purpose Surfboard Bag
The FCS bag holds three boards. With 12mm body foam protection, this bag can take a beating. Plus, there’s a 2mm plastic cover on the nose for extra protection. Choose from one, two, or three board bags or even a longboard, all under the same design. Also, there’s an option to buy wheeled bags!
Pros
Cons
Overall, this is a great travel bag offering a range of options. The retail price ranges from $240 to $510, depending on size and whether you want wheels or not.
3. Creatures of Leisure Triple Board Cover
Creatures of Leisure Triple Board Cover
This bag is built with heavy-duty, heat-reflective silver poly fabric that can withstand the harshest travel conditions. The 10mm closed-cell foam padding ensures your boards stay safe, while the stash pockets and fin slots keep your gear organized.
Pros
Cons
Overall, it is a great choice for a heavy-duty surfboard travel bag. One thing that really stands out is the X-flow air ventilation system—it helps keep your boards cool, which is a nice touch when you’re traveling to tropical spots. Priced at $330.
4. Pro-Lite Wheeled Coffin Surfboard Bag
Pro-Lite Wheeled Coffin Surfboard Bag
This beast of a bag can carry up to four boards and has plenty of space for all your other surf gear. Its rugged wheels feel like a 4X4 bag. The bag is equipped with four exterior compression straps and internal tie-down loops to keep everything tight.
Pros
Cons
Overall, it is one of the best surfboard travel bags on the market. It’s definitely on the pricier side ($426), but if you’re serious about your surf trips, it’s worth the investment.
5. Abahub Premium Surfboard Travel Bag
Abahub Premium Surfboard Travel Bag
This board is a versatile, budget-friendly option in sizes ranging from 6’0” to 10’0”. Featuring extra padding in the nose and tail area, plus to vents in the back of the bag for air ventilation.
Pros
Cons
This was the first surfboard travel bag I’ve owned. It’s by no means the best surfboard bag out there, but with enough padding, like pool noodles or bubble wrap, you’ll be fine.
I managed to fit two surfboards, a wetsuit, and other accessories in with no problem. I took two flights from LAX to Panama City and traveled all over Central America with this bag, and it did the job perfectly. Priced at $87.
Packing Your Surf Travel Bag Like a Pro
When it comes to packing your surfboard travel bag, it’s all about ensuring your boards stay ding-free. Here are some tips on how to pack the perfect board bag.
The RNT Protection
RNT stands for Rails, Nose, and Tail. These are the most vulnerable parts of the surfboard. I like to cover them with pipe insulation foam or pool noodles.
If you found these to be too bulky, try wrapping your board with bubble wrap for extra protection.
Use Your Gear as Padding
This one’s a game-changer—use your wetsuits, towels, and clothes as extra padding around your boards. Not only does this save space, but it also adds another layer of protection.
Pack Smart with Smaller Items
Fins, leashes, and other small gear can be tricky to pack without creating pressure points on your board. I always remove the fins and store them in a separate padded case, like a fin wallet, to keep them safe.
Leashes can be coiled and placed in the gaps around your boards, but make sure they don’t cause uneven pressure.
Distribute Weight Evenly
Try to distribute the weight as evenly as possible. Heavier items like wetsuits, wax, and sunscreen should be placed closer to the wheels if your bag has them or in the center of the bag to avoid making one end too heavy.
Uneven weight distribution can make the bag harder to carry and more prone to tipping over.
Secure Everything in Place
If your bag has internal straps, use them to secure your boards and gear so they don’t move around during transit.
A loose board inside a bag is just asking for trouble—one good drop by a baggage handler could result in a nasty ding.
Don’t Forget the Extras
Lastly, don’t forget the little extras that can make your trip smoother. A small repair kit with ding repair putty, a fin key, and some spare screws can save the day if something goes wrong.
I also like to throw in a spare leash and some extra wax—it’s always better to have too much than not enough.
Conclusion
Choosing the right surf travel bag is about more than just protecting your board—it’s about ensuring every surf trip is hassle-free and your gear is ready for action.
Traveling with your board is made easier with the quality and technology incorporated in today’s bags.
Whether you’re chasing waves across the globe or heading to your local break, investing in a high-quality surfboard travel bag will give you peace of mind and keep your focus where it belongs—on the surf.
That’s it for me. See you out there!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best surfboard travel bag for air travel?
The best surfboard travel bags for air travel are those with ample padding, durable materials, and strong zippers. Look for options with high-density foam padding and reinforced seams to withstand the rigors of baggage handling.
What size surfboard bag should I buy?
Choose a surfboard bag that matches the size of your board, with a little extra room for padding. Most bags are available in a range of sizes, so measure your board and pick a bag with a length and width that comfortably fits.
Are wheeled surfboard bags worth it?
Yes, wheeled surfboard bags are worth it if you’re traveling with multiple boards or heavy gear. They make it easier to navigate through airports and long distances, reducing strain on your shoulders and back.
Can I carry multiple boards in one surf travel bag?
Many surf travel bags are designed to carry multiple boards, often with extra padding between them to prevent dings and scratches. Look for bags labeled as double, triple, or even quiver bags, which can hold two or more boards securely.
