For many people in Austria, heading to the mountains for skiing or snowboarding over the winter school holidays is an annual ritual. But while most drivers focus on weather conditions and traffic jams, the way skis and snowboards are transported is often overlooked – even though it can make a real difference to safety.
According to advice from the Austrian motorists’ association ÖAMTC, improperly secured ski equipment can pose a serious hazard to passengers and other road users, especially during sudden braking or evasive manoeuvres.
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Where to put skis and equipment inside the car
If skis or snowboards are transported inside the vehicle, weight distribution is crucial. Heavy items such as ski boots should always be placed low down in the boot, ideally directly behind the rear seats. Lighter items can then be stacked on top or in front.
If skis or boards are laid across the back seats, they must be secured with proper straps or seatbelts. Loose equipment can turn into a projectile during hard braking, particularly on winter roads.
Drivers should also make sure that the load does not restrict visibility. You should always be able to carry out what the ÖAMTC calls the “three-point view” – checking the interior mirror, exterior mirrors and over your shoulder without obstruction.
READ ALSO: The rules you need to respect when skiing in Austria
Roof boxes and ski racks: what to watch out for
Roof boxes and ski racks are popular in Austria, but they come with their own risks. Skis should only be transported in lockable roof boxes or on lockable ski racks, and the load must always be properly secured with stable straps.
It is also essential to respect both the maximum load of the roof box and the permitted roof load of the car itself. Exceeding these limits can affect vehicle stability and, in extreme cases, damage the car.
A roof box changes how a vehicle behaves on the road. Extra weight increases braking distances and reduces acceleration, while loads on the roof make the car more sensitive to crosswinds. The ÖAMTC advises keeping a larger distance to the car in front and driving more cautiously than usual.
Clothing, comfort and emergency preparation
Bulky winter jackets may feel practical, but they can interfere with how seatbelts fit and reduce their protective effect. Drivers and passengers should wear thin layers while driving and ensure seatbelts fit snugly against the body.
Winter travel also means being prepared for delays. Snow, accidents or temporary road closures can quickly lead to long waiting times. The ÖAMTC recommends carrying warm blankets, drinks, and snacks, and keeping the fuel tank as full as possible so the heating can be used if needed.
Other essentials include high-visibility vests for all passengers, an ice scraper, snow brush, de-icing spray and, for families, small games to keep children occupied.
Snow chains should be easily accessible in the boot, not buried under luggage – and ideally tested at home before they are needed.
Before and after the journey
Checking traffic conditions before departure can save time and stress. The ÖAMTC route planner provides up-to-date information on traffic, road conditions and costs such as vignettes and tolls.
After returning from a ski trip, it is worth thoroughly washing the car, roof box and ski rack to remove salt and dirt. If the roof box is not needed for a while, removing it will improve fuel efficiency and handling.
Key vocabulary
der Skiträger – ski rack
die Dachbox – roof box
der Kofferraum – boot
die Dachlast – roof load
die Schneeketten – snow chains
die Warnweste – high-visibility vest
der Sicherheitsgurt – seatbelt
If you have a winter travel tip of your own – especially one learned the hard way – feel free to share it in the comments.
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