THE ULTIMATE BOARDBAG GUIDE

Whether you're chasing waves halfway around the globe or just heading down to your local break, one thing’s for sure—your board deserves proper protection. At Pukas Surf Shop, we stock the largest range of surfboard bags you’ll find: from leading global brands to versatile designs that fit all board types, in multiple sizes, fits, and colors. Every item is ready for immediate dispatch with worldwide shipping, so your perfect boardbag is just a click away.

Which Surfboard Bag Do You Actually Need?

Not all boardbags are built the same—and not all surfers have the same needs. Whether you're squeezing in a quick dawn patrol, road-tripping for the weekend, or flying across continents in search of swell, the right bag makes all the difference.

At Pukas Surf Shop, we’ve got you covered with everything from lightweight stretch covers to ultra-padded travel boardbags, so let’s break down the three main types and help you figure out which one matches your surf lifestyle best.

What’s the Difference? Day Bags vs Travel Bags vs Stretch Covers

1. Stretch Covers (aka Board Socks) 🧦 Best for: Light protection at home or quick local trips Protection level: Low Key features: Made of stretchy fabric (like knit polyester or towel-like material) Protects from scratches, wax transfer, sun exposure Super lightweight and compact Why choose one: Ideal for short-term protection—like keeping your car wax-free, preventing minor dings at home, or keeping your board clean inside a hard travel bag.

2. Day Boardbags 🚗 Best for: Daily use, local sessions, short drives to the beach Protection level: Medium Key features: Light padding (usually 5mm–10mm) UV-resistant materials Simple shoulder straps and handles Often include small storage pockets Why choose one: A day bag is ideal if you're just cruising to your local break and want solid protection against sun, heat, and light bumps—especially inside the car.

 

3. Travel Boardbags ✈️ Best for: Flights, road trips, surf adventures abroad Protection level: High Key features: Heavy-duty padding (10mm–20mm+) Reinforced nose/tail sections Internal straps and compartments for multiple boards Extra space for wetsuits, fins, leashes, etc. Wheels (on some models) for easier transport Why choose one: If you’re checking your board at an airport or loading it in and out of buses, taxis, or dusty 4x4s, you need a travel bag. It’s your board’s armor for harsh handling and long journeys.

 

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Type	Best For	Padding	Ideal Use
Stretch Cover	Home use / light trips	Minimal	Surface protection
Day Bag	Everyday beach runs	Moderate	Local use
Travel Bag	Long trips / air travel	Maximum	Full-on protection

 

📏 How to Choose the Right Surfboard Bag: Size & Shape Matter

When it comes to surfboard bags, one size definitely doesn’t fit all. Choosing the right boardbag means matching it not just to the length of your board, but also to its shape, width, and overall profile. Here’s how to get it right:

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🏄 1. Know Your Board Size Start by checking your board’s dimensions—especially the length. Most boardbags are labeled in feet and inches (e.g. 6'0", 7'6", 9'0"). 👉 Pro tip: Always size up slightly. For example, if your board is 6'2", go for a 6'3" or 6'6" bag to give room for fins or extra padding during travel.

 

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🧩 2. Match the Shape: Types of Surfboard Bags Here’s a quick guide based on the board you ride: 🌀 Shortboard Bags Fit: Pointed nose, narrow body Best for: High-performance and everyday shortboards Look for: Slim fit, less bulk, perfect for travel or day use 🎉 Funboard Bags Fit: Wider nose and body than a shortboard Best for: Mid-lengths, mini-mals, fishes, hybrids and beginner boards Look for: More internal space, padding around the rails, and extra wiggle room 🏄 Longboard Bags Fit: Rounded nose, wide, heavy-duty shape Best for: Classic logs, performance longboards Look for: Full zip openings, reinforced nose and tail, options for single or multiple fins 🌊 Gun Boardbags Fit: Narrow and long with sleek outlines Best for: Step-ups and big wave guns Look for: Lengths up to 10’+ and extra nose/tail protection for travel

 

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✅ 3. Don’t Forget the Extras Fin compatibility: Removable fin slots or extra room for fins-in transport Padding: 5mm for day use, 10mm+ for travel Straps & handles: For easy carrying Pockets: Keep your wax, leash, and tools in one place

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💡 The Bottom Line:

Pick a bag that’s slightly longer than your board, matches its outline, and suits how you use it—daily surf checks, global missions, or safe storage at home.

🏄Boardbag Options by Brand at Pukas Surf Shop

With so many brands and bag types out there, it can be tricky to know where to start. That’s why we’ve made it easy for you: below is a quick-access guide to all the boardbags available at Pukas Surf Shop, organized by brand and bag type.

Brand	Day Bags	Travel Bags	Stretch Covers
Channel Islands	Shortboard | Hybdrid | Longboard	Shortboard | Hybrid	-
FCS	Shortboard | Hybrid | Longboard	Shortboard | Hybrid | Longboard	Shortboard | Hybrid | Longboard
Octopus	Shortboard	Shortboard	Shortboard
VEIA Supplies	Shortboard	Shortboards	-
Creatures	Gun	-	-
Ocean & Earth	-	Shortboard | Hybrid	-
DB Journey	-	Shortboard | Hybrid	Shortboard
Pukas Surf Shop	-	-	Shortboard | Hybrid | Longboard

 

Pro Tips for Traveling with Your Boardbag

• Watch the Weight: Airlines often have strict weight limits, especially for sports equipment. Overpacking your boardbag can lead to expensive oversize baggage fees. Always double-check your airline's policy—and weigh your bag before heading to the airport.
• Choose Foldable & Space-Saving Gear: One of the standout features of the Db Journey boardbag is its smart collapsible design. When you're not using it, it folds down neatly for easy storage—perfect for surfers on the move or those short on space at home or in the van.
• Pack Like a Pro: Use your boardbag wisely. Besides your boards, it’s the perfect spot to stash wetsuits, towels, fins, and even some clothing. Just be strategic—balance protection and padding with weight awareness.
• Invest in a Good Luggage Scale: A compact digital scale is a game changer. No more guessing if you're within limits, and no more last-minute gear reshuffling at the check-in counter.
• Consider Wheels & Handles: If you’re navigating airports or train stations, a boardbag with sturdy wheels and multiple handles (like the Db Journey’s or Channel Island's setups) makes life much easier.