I have had some horrible experiences with Continental regarding checking a snowboard bag. The issue really isn't the bag itself, or even the snowboard, but rather, whether or not I can have other items in my snowboard bag other than a snowboard (even if the total weight is under 50 pounds). The rules say that:

"Ski bags measuring over 62 linear inches (157 cm) that contain other items in addition to or in place of ski equipment will be subject to the applicable oversize charge."

There are a couple issues. First, what is "ski equipment"? For example, does it include boots, bindings, a helmet, goggles, gloves, hat, ski jacket? Second, this rule is rarely enforced uniformly. It seems in ski country (Colorado, Utah, etc.) this rule is not enforced at all. But here in Houston the baggage people are very strict, and don't allow anything other than the snowboard itself. So then you are left with a snowboard bag with only a snowboard in it, and a ton of extra room, and a bunch of ski clothes, helmets, goggles, without a bag to put them in. Plus, all of those clothes were being used to cushion the snowboard so that it doesn't get damaged. I really wish Continental would just come out with a clear definition of ski equipment, and then I will know what I can or cannot bring, and then I can decide if its worth it to fly with them, or choose a different airline.

Anyone else have this problem?