Originally Posted by
danielvdm
Only twice while flying with DL have I ever had to sign anything for having a soft ski bag.
As for the weight, in my experience they've usually been pretty strict about it. As a DM, i get 70lbs which is pretty hard to exceed, but I get used to just stuffing a lot of items in there (always put clothes, never have issues) and then occasionally forget that on international flights I only get 50lbs... twice I've been caught and told to pay like $100 extra and twice I've talked my way out of it.
Had this issue recently as well. Domestically, you still get 70 pounds, but not internationally.
My ski bag is extendable and can hold 2 sets of skis plus poles. If you don't load a 2nd pair of skis, you can also fit the boots in the bag (as well as the rest of your gear and clothing - helmet, goggles, etc). So I pack 95% of my things for a week long ski trip in my ski bag.
Was flying ATL-JFK-ZRH and got to the bag drop at 54 pounds. Agent cheerfully said "$100 please" and I almost had a heart attack. Was able to move some things around in my backpack to get down to 52 pounds, which she was okay with.