The 10 Best Snowboard Backpacks for Touring & Riding

Snowboarding has this incredible ability of making you forget that you’re thirsty, hungry, or that you need to shed a layer on days inbound. It also has an alluring way of making each rider want more- more powder, more exploration, more time doing what they love on their board in the out of bounds, backcountry terrain. Ultimately, snowboarding begs you to find the perfect backpack. A backpack that is light, yet roomy enough to carry avalanche gear, food, extra layers, crampons, and even your board (or skis!).

Here at Mountain Weekly News, we want you to spend more time outside instead of stressing over which backpack is the best, and did the testing for you. If you have been searching online wondering what the best snowboard backpacks are for resort riding and splitboarding, we got you covered in our annual roundup of best snowboard backpacks.

Best Snowboard Backpacks We Tested

Mystery Ranch Scree 33 Backpack

The Mystery Ranch Scree 33 is a daypack built for riders who have a love for exploring in rugged, unforgivable terrain. The many perks of this pack are its ability to withstand collisions with sharp tools or terrain, easy access to gear, and its ergonomic fit no matter the body type or how heavy you pack it.

Ultimately, Mystery Ranch created a 2-for-1 deal with this pack, for it has the wherewithal to uphold in Summer and Winter backcountry pursuits including but not limited to snowboarding, skiing, rock climbing, hunting, etc. You can rest assured that this pack will withstand intimate moments with rocks and sharp tools, while seeming to disappear from your back altogether. A great feature built into this pack is how you can remove the aluminum frame and tailor its structure to your specific adventure. Grocery haul or technical splitboarding? No sweat. The overall design is a tri-zip, giving you the option to access however much of the single internal compartment of the pack as needed, whether that’s to grab a water bottle by accessing one zipper, or the entire compartment by pulling back all three zippers.

The only other pocket inside the internal compartment is a hydration sleeve. The outside of the pack is suited with a tool attachment to hold ice axes, crampons, gloves, and other accessories you may need quick access to. Overall, this larger 33L pack is best for those going out for day-long adventures who may need the compatibility of strapping the splitboard or skis to their bag with the side compression straps in the “A-frame” formation, and rely on the durability of their gear.

Backpack Review – https://mtnweekly.com/reviews/mystery-ranch-scree-33-backpack/

Dakine Heli Pro 24L Backpack

The Dakine Heli Pro 24L pack holds a special spot in my heart, as it was my first snowboarding specific backpack. At 24L, I found this pack to be the perfect size for resort days when working, and playing, at the resort. I used it on a handful of backcountry tours, yet found it more appropriate then for jump session days and purely skinning required type of tours.

Key perks of this pack are the back panel zippered compartment for access to everything, the ability to strap your board horizontally, vertically, or in the A-frame formation, and the insulated hydration sleeve doubling as reliable laptop storage when off the mountain. Since owning my older version of this bag, Dakine has done an excellent job with upgrading the outer material to perform better against abrasions and repel water with 600D polyester. They also made their snow tool pocket larger to hold your shovel and probe.

Be mindful that this is a smaller pack at 24L, and carrying extra tools such as crampons or ice axes may make this bag feel cramped. The hip strap is padded, yet lacks in having an additional pocket to carry a small tool for your bindings or snacks. Longer, more intense trips in the backcountry may be better suited for a pack with sterdier straps for harnessing your board or skis to your backpack. Before heading out, make sure the size of your snowboard, splitboard, or skis fit in the designated strap areas with all of your gear. All in all, the Dakine Heli Pro is a decent backcountry pack, and excels as an everyday resort backpack whether you work, play, or do both on the mountain.

Backpack Review – https://mtnweekly.com/reviews/dakine-team-heli-pro-24l/

Deuter Freerider 30L Backpack

Deuter’s Freeride backpack line is extensive, with sizes ranging from 18L to 34L, give or take a couple liters of space due to the women’s specific SL fit or Men’s regular pack fit. These small details are greatly appreciated, as the center of mass being slightly different in males and females due to males typically having longer backs. They guarantee control, balance, and comfort in every step with their Alpine system, where two softstripe pads flex with your back to support the weight with each glide of your foot.

Fixating skis and snowboards is easy with the removable and sturdy straps that attach to various loopy points on the bag. Boards or snowshoes can be attached vertically, while skis can be attached in an A-frame or diagonal position. There are attachment loops for a helmet holder, but that holder is sold separately, as well as the hydration reservoir. Yet another backpack with a back panel access option for ultimate gear access, a secondary elasticated compartment to store sweaty or wet layers, and a separate reinforced safety compartment for your avy gear.

This pack is made of water-resistant ripstop material, keeping your gear dry when you lay down your pack, even with all equipment still attached to the outside. One last cool feature on this bag that separates it from the rest is the sunglasses loop on the shoulder strap, so your sunnies can safely hangout while you check on your route or adjust your snowboard or splitboard.

Backpack Review – https://mtnweekly.com/reviews/deuter-freerider-30l-touring-backpack/

ORTOVOX Tour Rider 30 Backpack

When thinking of the size of a 30L bag such as the Ortovox Tour Rider, imagine the size of a carry-on bag for air travel. With 7 various compartments to keep all of your necessary gear organized, this pack is right in line for one of the best day packs out there for flying on the skin track.

Say hello to color on the inside of this pack to help you see what’s going on inside in the early or late hours of the day. Front and back panel entry points to the main compartment create seamless transitions when you need to make them, and safety gear resides in its own compartment. Ortovox also constructed a “female” version of this same pack in a 28L size, assisting in the ideal ergonomic outcome for the hip and shoulder straps.

Keep in mind this pack has a ski strap size of 150mm max to accommodate your widest ride, and can diagonally carry skis or a splitboard.

Backpack Review – https://mtnweekly.com/reviews/deuter-freerider-30l-touring-backpack/

Patagonia Descensionist Pack 40L

There’s no doubt that whenever I come across Patagonia gear, I have an extra sense of assurance when it comes to the longevity of that item. This is a huge win, considering I’m hard on gear and squeeze every ounce of life I can from each tool. My personal trust was further confirmed when Patagonia was ranked the most respectable brand in 2023 by the Axios and Harris Poll”. If you’re a fan of this sustainable company, consider the Patagonia Descensionist 40L backpack.

This pack is made with a rugged, recycled nylon material that will shed perspiration and withstand encounters with sharp tools or surroundings. Whether you utilize the bag for single day use or a multi-day trip, the roll top helps adjust the size of this bag on the go, with a securing strap at the top to keep everything in place. A side zipper opening to the main internal zipper grants swift entry to retrieving skins, an extra layer, or your camera.

Being prepared in the mountains is essential, and the ability to either secure your ice ax on the outside of the bag for quick use or in the internal snow safety compartment on travel days are the details that make a difference. This backpack comes equipped with removable straps that wrap around the top and bottom of the pack in order to mount your board or skis in a sturdy A-frame, vertical, or cross position. Plus your splitboard poles can fit inside the back when folded up.

Backpack Review – https://mtnweekly.com/reviews/patagonia-descensionist-pack/

Additional Snowboard Backpacks to Consider

Burton [ak] Surgence Tour 18L Backpack

As the weather surges carry in new snow, you buzz with the desire to move as fast as possible on those early mornings, suited up with the absolute necessities. That’s where the sportive running-vest design of Burton’s [ak] Surgence Tour 18L backpack comes into play. This technical and small pack will allow you to soar up the skin track in search of that sweet, fresh, fluffy snow.

I was immediately swooned by the look of this athletic snowboarding backpack that is a small replica of the Burton [ak] Dispatch. The differences in these packs are mainly in how much more minimalistic the Surgence Tour is vs the Dispatcher. Better fit for quick jaunts up the mountain on your favorite tour, or at the resort accomplishing multiple laps, where there will still be time to whip out your phone or camera from the front of the shoulder strap to capture nature’s beauty.

Although small, this pack is mighty with the capacity to strap external tools and accessories, a helmet, and your board vertically. Internally, you’ll still have enough room to stow away your avalanche gear, water, snacks, and extra gloves. Everything you need, nothing you don’t.

Burton [ak] Dispatcher 25l Backpack

Burton brought forth a stellar essentialist design with the [ak] Dispatcher 25L backpack. Perfect for one day adventures snow or shine, you’ll never want to leave home without it.

This is the first backpack we present with a back panel zipper that gives you complete access to your gear for easy transitions. If you haven’t owned a back panel access pack before, make sure you consider if taking the bag fully off to access extra layers will bother you or not. There is a small side zipper for access to the main compartment, as well as a hydration sleeve.

There is a second smaller compartment to carry your snow safety tools, a fleece lined pocket to hold your goggles, and a stowable helmet sling and gear loops. Simple, seamless, and eager to shred, the Burton [ak] Dispatcher is a smaller companion for those days you want to get out and go.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Headwall 55 Backpack

The largest pack on our 10 top introduces the Headwall 55L pack, ready to take you further, deeper, and more remote with its lightweight and stuff sack like construction. Hyperlite Mountain Gear has an extremely detailed website to help you determine which size pack will fit you best, from small at 15” torso to tall 21+” torso. Being 5’2” it is a blessing to discover a pack of this size that actually fits. A win for humanity! May I also mention Cody Townsend had constructive feedback that was well received to deliver this athletic, multi-day pack?

As I mentioned previously, this bag has one large main compartment that works like a stuff sack with a roll top and has no additional structural forces internally. There is an additional small zippered pocket in the main compartment. What is packed will need to be done in a mindful manner, as you may feel an annoying bulge of some accessory tool digging into your back. An easy fix with a simple relocation of that item. With its additional 7L of external carrying capacity, it’s fairly easy to utilize any of the 6+ adjustable compression straps and 4 daisy chains on the front, sides, and shoulder straps of the bag for securing all gear. Those same 6 compression straps can be used to carry splitboard or skis in an A-frame configuration.

There is a separate, external pocket to hold your shovel and probe, and two traditional ice ax loops to keep you prepared wherever you are, secured by two straps. There is no external helmet carry, however you could get creative and utilize the daisy chains, or configure your own preferred attachment, although it fits in the bag easily with the rest of your gear.

Try not to let this lightweight pack fool you when it comes to its ability to withstand the elements and keep gear dry; the Dyneema Composite fabrics used throughout this pack curates an extremely rugged bag that is also stretchy and versatile. Whether you utilize the entire 55 internal liters + 7 external L or you use the extra compression straps to condense this bag on light days, this investment may be the best one of 2024.

Evoc Patrol 32L Backpack

Splitboarders and ski mountaineer fanatics, I’m pleased to introduce you to the love of your life: the Evoc Patrol Backpack. With its sleek design that is equally durable, has ample space to accommodate you on multi-day adventures, and organization that makes your mom proud, Evoc has gone above and beyond with this expedition ready design.

When deciding upon the proper snowboarding pack, specifically for touring, you want to search for the following: ski or snowboard mounting capability, avalanche gear storage, snack pockets, hydration sleeve, comfortable fit on shoulders and hips. In the Evoc Patrol, count all of the above found. Expect to appreciate Evoc’s neutralite system, which helps evenly distribute the weight of the pack along your shoulders and back so you can go farther each day. In addition to this, they made the hip belt adjustable, removable, and ergonomic with an integrative pocket that is snack size friendly. To top it all off, the organization system is essential.

At the top of the bag is a pocket for goggles and small accessories, a strap to secure your helmet, an avalanche gear outer compartment, and a large main compartment that can be opened from the side for speedy access. Easy vertical and horizontal mounting attachment points for your snowboard (or skis) help boot-pack sections feel like a stroll in the park, even with this 32L pack coming in at 3.4lbs. The Evoc Patrol offers each rider an opportunity to expand their current level of riding with fun and safety in mind.

Mammut Nirvana 35L Backpack

Highly technical, seasoned riders know the importance of a pack that does it all, and some. Mammut has created that all-in-one pack with the Nirvana 35L for freeride and touring enthusiasts alike. Can we also appreciate that this pack fits petite women like a glove?

Every great adventure starts with being able to neatly organize your bag, and the back panel access of this bag makes that tremendously satisfying. Unlike other bags on our list so far that only have back panel access, Mammut included a zipper that opens the top of this bag so your belongings don’t go for a ride of their own while searching for your granola bar. Outside of the main compartment, there is a smaller additional front pocket for snow safety gear and stitched in SOS plan, a large lined goggle pocket, a slim pocket on the front of the pack perfect for storing splitboard skins, and an additional zippered pocket on the hip belt.

Although a slightly heftier pack, there are no complaints in the durability of each component; from the 2-layer EVA back padding and straps, U-frame structure system that improves the comfort of carrying a fully loaded pack, and thick webbing with a robust locking mechanism help alleviate concerns of snowboards or skis loosening over the course of any boot-pack. Consider upgrading to the Mammut Nirvana 35L backpack if you’re eager for full day and multi-day trips, with the comfort of knowing your board or skis will strap vertically, horizontally, and in an a-frame position without ever interfering with your legs.

Video on What To Carry Inside Your Snowboard Backpack for Splitboarding

Avalanche Airbags

You may be wondering why we didn’t include any avalanche airbags into this roundup of top snowboard backpacks. For one, your brain is always smarter than an airbag and to rely on a tool like an airbag to keep you safe in avalanches seems to be missing the entire point of staying alive and staying out of avalanche terrain. For ski guides and people teeing off big lines in Alaska, sure airbags are great.

But for your regular joe resort skier or someone just going for a quick splitboard tour the weight of an avalanche airbag can be a bit overkill. And if you find yourself willing to ski or ride in avalanche terrain because you think you’ll be able to float to the surface without any major trauma is unrealistic at best.

Past Winners:

Best Snowboard Backpacks

by Mike Hardaker

Union Rover 24L Pack

Union makes some of the best standard bindings, some of the best touring bindings, and now they make one of the sickest little snowboard packs on the planet. To start off, this is the pack you need if you’re a fan of the Union Rover Approach Skis since it holds them safe and sound for the descent. Plus there are all sorts of cool, crazy little pockets (from lined goggle pockets to front avalanche tool pocket) and all sorts of gear loops for hanging things like your split crampons or your helmet off the outside.

What I really love are the board carry options on the Union Rover Backpack. Vertical carry, horizontal carry (sled much?), and even both a vertical and diagonal ski carry thanks to the Approach Ski setup. The 600D polyester and the beefy 38mm webbing means this 24L pack will outlast even your rowdiest adventures. At 24L, it’s the perfect pack to wear on the lift to carry all your accessories or for a quick slip outside the gates. Plus Union’s black and orange colorway is kind of fire. This is one of the best snowboard carry backpacks for someone wanting to try splitboarding but set on using their own solid board in the backcountry.

Perfect for: Playing on split, approach skis for snowboarders, or sled

Backpack and Approach Skis Review – https://mtnweekly.com/reviews/union-rover/

Patagonia Snowdrifter 30L Pack

Patagonia’s Snowdrifter Backpack has been my go-to pack and what else would you expect from the legendary Patagucci? Of course since this is Patagonia, they have both front and A-Frame carry for the skis. And the Cordura nylon with DRW treatment makes this one of the most protected, waterproof packs on the list. The shoulder’s insulated shoulder pocket is made to keep your hydration pocket tube from freezing. And the arm straps in general, they’re really padded to make this comfortable for long days touring in the backcountry.

I love the huge opening on the Patagonia Snowdrifter 30L Pack. It makes making it even easier to go through all your gear since when you’re on a mountain adventure, time is precious and access is paramount. Even more important since this main compartment is cavernous. Though of course there’s also a dedicated front compartment for your avalanche tools. But given the beating backpacks take, and Patagonia’s industry-leading replace and repair policy, this Patagonia Backpack might be the last daypack you ever buy. This was our editor’s pick for the best splitboard backpack we tested for 2021/22.

Perfect for: Daily driver

Mystery Ranch Saddle Peak 25L

A few years ago a friend told me Mystery Ranch disappeared from the pack game for a while because their packs were just too good for the average person to understand, and the Mystery Ranch Saddle Peak Pack lives up to this claim. Do you go big on gnarly, icy, rocky treks? The 840D nylon with Carbonite can handle even the sharpest jabs, whether from cliff or ski edge. It’s got a zip that goes the whole way down not only on the avy pocket but also on the main pocket, giving you access for days.

This Mystery Ranch Backpack features a telescoping, stretch-woven yoke, one of the most comfortable shoulder attachments ever. Few 25L backpacks actually have an adjustable yoke (the place where the shoulder straps come together); this slim profile pack will probably be one of the few adjustable ones you’ll see riding the lifts at your local resort. Of course making one of the sturdiest bags with all the bells and whistles means that this men’s snowboard backpack might be a bit much for a casual rider. But that doesn’t describe you, does it?

Best for: The serious rider who doesn’t compromise.

Backpack Review – https://mtnweekly.com/reviews/mystery-ranch-saddle-peak-pack/

Gregory Targhee 32L Backpack

Grand Targhee is my local resort and has some of the craziest weather I’ve ever seen, which has got to be why the Gregory Targhee 32 Pack is made to handle whatever mother nature can throw at you. That 1000D Cordura front diagonal guard panel is practically bulletproof (though obviously it’s for handling ski or board in split mode edges). Then there’s all that anodized aluminum hardware to deal with the cold since, you know, plastic tends to snap off in super cold conditions.

I love a pack with a helmet carry system and this Gregory Backpack has it including all sorts of ice climbing features, like a bungee ice tool system and a hipbelt shaped to work with a harness. Because, let’s be honest, if you don’t ice climb, you’ve definitely thought about it so might as well be prepared. Avy pocket is dialed and I always love a U-Zip backpanel for serious mission access.

If you’re serious about the mountaineer part of “snowboard mountaineer,” the Gregory Targhee’s the pack for you.

Perfect for: Big days

Mountain Hardwear Powabunga 32L

If you’re looking for something that can hold everything you need for a daytrip in a sleek, low-profile pack, the Mountain Hardwear Powabunga is the one for you. It holds 32L, with dual side zip pockets for skins, water, extra gloves and hat and goggles; plus of course there’s the front pocket for you shovel and probe.

The 500D CORDURA nylon is super light but also super durable, able to handle crazy poking gear and grinding your pack against ice and rock. But the outer is the real winner here: a snow-shedding stretch woven back panel with an HDPE framesheet keeps all your gear dry. And the all-black coloring makes it a member of the Secret Stash Society, ensuring you can keep your mountain ninja getup dialed and will be allowed to ride Baker. This Mountain Hardwear 32L Backpack is the perfect pack for daytrips and adventures slipping outside the resort gate.

Perfect for: Stealth ninja daytrips

Dakine Poacher Backpack R.A.S. 26L

Dakine has been making sick packs for decades, seemingly all leading up to developing this avalanche  airbag ready Poacher R.A.S. 26L Backpack. So let’s start with the obvious, yes, your airbag fits into this pack. The front avlanche gear pocket rolls down for super easy access, and front pockets on that pocket for the little things like goggles, wipes, bars, whatever.

I love the option of a zip from the inside of this Dakine Snowboard Backpack (you know, the part that goes against your back) but it’s also cool that it has vertical board and ski carries. At 26L, you’re not gonna have much room for crampons, extra foot, 2 pairs of goggles and 3 pairs of gloves, especially when packing the airbag. Which makes the Dakine Poacker Backpack the perfect backpack to hold a snowboard on shorter tours or longer backcountry treks.

Perfect for: Deep airbag-necessary short days

Backpack Review – https://mtnweekly.com/reviews/dakine-poacher-removable-airbag-system-36l-backpack-review/

Volcom Iguchi Slack Vest

The Volcom Iguchi Slack Vest is like the opening to “Tale of Two Cities”: It’s the best of packs and it’s the worst of packs. Though the “worsts” actually come from the user so we’re here to educate you all on backcountry. Let’s be honest, the Volcom Bryan Iguchi Vest rips if you know what you’re doing. “Slack” comes from slackcountry, which is unpatrolled terrain that is easily accessible, either from a ski resort’s gates or from a mountain pass. Thing is, slackcountry is no less dangerous than normal backcountry (though the heavier crowds may mean that the snowpack is a bit more beaten down, that doesn’t mean anything if you’re the first person dropping in the morning after a big dump). And while the vest has special pockets for your shovel and probe, you need more for a big day in the backcountry. Bringing me full circle to what this vest is for: slackcountry. Or as our editor wants it called, BACKCOUNTRY…

If you’re going for a 5+ hour tour in a national park, you need more than just your avy tools found in a snowboard vest backpack. But if you’re just slipping out of the gates and know where you are and how to get back in-bounds, this is perfect. Beacon, shovel, probe, with room for a few other snow testing tools is really all you need. Same if you’re going on an hour car-to-car tour. With 600mm waterproofing and a V-Science Rugged Nylon and Polyester build, this is a super beefy vest, with guide-certified radio pocket and foam padding on the shoulders and back. Honestly, this should be a go-to anytime you’re resort riding with the possibility of dipping outside of the boundaries.

Plus, this is endorsed by Bryan Iguchi, one of the true forefathers of backcountry freestyle riding. If Guch stands by this vest, so do we. Just bring a pack too if you’re going touring in a National Park.

Perfect for: Quick dips into the backcountry

Deuter Freescape Pro 40+

When you’re planning a big trip, you need a big pack that does what you need and nothing more; Deuter has deliver just that with their Freescape Pro 40+. That’s 40L plus of space, more than big enough for extra jacket, gloves, bivy sack, water, food, first aid kit. Plus the front avy tool pocket. The back is made for double ice-axe holding, around your crampons like a true badass, with a helmet carry.

There’s the main back pockets with a top lid that fits over it snugly, plus the little extra side pockets for phone, liners, whatever. The softstripe shoulder pads make this float on your back nicely, which is good since you’ll have your board or skis on the back, or you could do an A-Frame carry with the board in split mode, my favorite for the final approach.

It should be noted that this is basically an evolution of the Deuter Guide 45+, my pack of choice for the better part of a decade. But with updates like, for example, a back zipper to make it super easy to get at your stuff while board is strapped to the back of this Dueter Backpack. Got a yurt trip coming up? Look no further than the Deuter Freescape.

Best for: overnight snowtrips.

Ortovox Freerider 22L

The smallest pack on this list is made by the same company that we turn to time and again for keeping us alive with their beacons: Ortovox, and their Freerider 22L. That’s right, the Ortovox Freerider is 22 liters. This is so slim that you have no excuse for not just keeping this in your car with a full avy safety kit, ready to go. It still has a shovel probe pocket, and storage room for the basics but that’s it. No, I wouldn’t suggest this for big days. But it does have a ski carry, and a board carry, and an axe carry, and enough room for the absolute essential splitboarding gear to carry with you in the backcountry to stay safe in avalanche terrain.

The Freerider 22L is made of 420D nylon, with 2 external and 2 internal pockets and a claimed weight of a little over 2 and a half pounds. Yeah, that’s right, 2 pounds 10 ounces. You’ll definitely want to use the hydration bladder in this instead of a water bottle but in turn this backpack won’t threaten to knock you off the chairlift. Go light, go little, keep it simple with this small backpack designed by an authority in backcountry safety, Ortovox.

Best for: Backcountry users looking to keep it simple.

The North Face Snomad 23L

I like North Face’s Summit Series, and the Snomad 23L, inspired by the Summit Series, delivers a true skimo pack like only the top name in high alpine exploration can deliver. This North Face Snowboard Backpack starts with a 200D ripstop non-PFC DWR finish on the front and a 420D nylon non-PFC DWR on the sides and back and you’ve got great water repulsion and durability at a lower weight. Where it really separates itself are its mountaineering options.

I love the integrated helmet mount on top of The North Face Snowmad Backpack so you don’t have to choose between carrying your board or your noggin protector on your back. Then there’s the fact that the ice-axe loop is adjustable side to side but still lo profile enough to not catch on anything. Because yes, if you start getting into real big mountain touring, your ice axe will become an essential part of your kit.

At 23L, this North Face Backpack is bare-bones. If you want to move fast and light to rowdy objectives, this is the pack for you.

Perfect for: Speed peak-bagging and ascents

Related Articles Backpacks

1. Mammut Free Fest 15 Avalanche Airbag
2. Burton Tour Incline 40L Backpack
3. Ortovox Ravine 34L Backpack