Airbags backpack

Buying guide: avalanche airbag backpack for skiing and snowboarding

An avalanche airbag backpack is a backpack equipped with an activation system (gas cartridge or electric turbine) that inflates a balloon in a matter of seconds. The goal: to increase your volume to help you stay on the surface of an avalanche and reduce the risk of being buried. Lightweight and designed for off-piste skiing, it has room for the essentials (avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe, water, down jacket) and can even be operated with gloves on.

Who is it for? Anyone who ventures off the marked trails: freeriders, ski tourers, splitboarders, mountain pros. Useful, yes—but never enough: training, reading the avalanche bulletin, route choice, and the avalanche transceiver/shovel/probe trio remain non-negotiable.

How does an avalanche backpack work?

A ski airbag backpack is activated via a handle located on the shoulder strap. When pulled:

• A gas cartridge (air/nitrogen) or electric (turbine + battery/supercapacitor) system inflates one or two balloons in a few seconds (approximately 150–170 L).
• Your volume increases: in an avalanche, "larger" objects remain closer to the surface. Result: better chances of being visible and not being buried deeply.
• The bag is carried like a conventional bag: ski/snow carry, avalanche transceiver/shovel/probe pockets, waist strap recommended to prevent the bag from riding up.
• Electric systems allow for multiple trigger tests (recharging), while cartridge models are single-use per shot.

Before each outing: check the handle, the condition of the straps, the battery level (electric) or the weight/tightness of the cartridge (gas). Practice the firing action.

How do you recharge a bag cartridge?

• Gas cartridge models: after triggering, replace the cartridge + trigger kit according to the brand. Screw in to the recommended torque, check the O-rings, weigh the cartridge (weight indicated on the label) and store the handle in the "safe" position. Some cartridges can be recharged in stores or via standard exchange: plan ahead before a trip.
• Electric models: recharge the battery (USB) or supercapacitors (battery/USB depending on the system). You can test several inflations during training: then recharge completely and store in a dry place, with the battery half full if not in use for a long period.
• Transportation: if traveling by plane, check the regulations: cartridges and batteries are subject to restrictions. Purge/disassemble if requested by the airline.
• Storage: store in a dry, temperate place, away from heat sources. Annual system check (cables, valves, balloon) and handle test recommended at the start of the season.

How to choose your ski airbag?

• System: gas (lightweight, simple) or electric (reusable, ideal for training). Both are activated with a single pull.
• Volume: 18–22 L (daytime freeriding), 25–30 L (versatile touring), 30–40 L (long outings, camera equipment, light sleeping gear).
• Weight & carrying: shoulder straps/comfortable back support, lumbar belt, load adjustment. The more stable, the safer.
• Compatibility: dedicated avalanche transceiver/shovel/probe compartments, helmet holder, ski/board holder, water bottle pocket or hydration pocket.
• Reloading & travel: cartridge to be replaced/recharged (check airline regulations), battery/turbine to be recharged (easier when traveling).
• Ergonomics: accessible handle (left/right), visibility, test grip with gloves.
• Safety reminder: an airbag is never a free pass. Reading the BRA, route selection, training, and the avalanche transceiver–shovel–probe trio remain essential.

Gas or electric: a quick comparison

Which bag is the lightest?

Are you trying to save every ounce? Look for "UL/Ultralight" models, designed for altitude differences. In our selection, the lightest models are generally: Scott Patrol Ultralight E2 25 (kit), ARVA Tour 28 UL Reactor, Mammut Light Removable Airbag 3.0. For the exact weight of each ski airbag, refer to the product sheet for the model you have chosen.

Which bag has the most volume?

For ski touring, camera equipment, or a spare jacket, go for 35–40 liters. The most spacious on the page:

• Ortovox AVABAG LITRIC TOUR 40: ideal for 1–2 day tours.
• Scott Patrol E1 40 Kit: large volume + proven electrical system.
• ARVA Explore 40: challenging hikes, full load.
• 35 L: Mammut PRO 35 Removable 3.0, Black Diamond Jetforce Pro 35.
• 32 L: ARVA Reactor 32 Pro Flex, ARVA Tour 32 Switch.

What is the price range for a ski airbag backpack?

The entry-level range starts at around $370–$620 (e.g., BCA Float 22, Mammut FREE 22/28 Removable 3.0). The mid-range is between €620 and €900 (e.g., ARVA RIDE 18/24 Switch, ARVA Reactor Pro Flex, Scott Patrol E2 30/38 on sale). The high-end electric models range from €1,000 to €1,190 (e.g., Black Diamond Jetforce Pro 35, Ortovox AVABAG LITRIC 26–40). Choose according to your practice, your volume needs... and the system (gas cartridge vs. turbine) that suits you best.