The sled bag is the main cargo area of a dogsled, made from tough, water-resistant fabric such as Cordura nylon and lashed or fastened to the sled frame. It typically features a zippered or drawstring opening and sits between the stanchions of the sled, providing a secure space for everything a musher needs on the trail.
In sled dog racing, race rules require mushers to carry mandatory equipment — an axe, snowshoes, a sleeping bag, dog food, and a cooker, among other items — all of which are stowed in the sled bag. The bag must also be large enough to transport an injured or fatigued dog safely to the next checkpoint, which is a rule in virtually every major race.
Sled bags come in different sizes depending on the type of racing. Sprint sleds use smaller, lighter bags, while long-distance sleds need large bags to accommodate days’ worth of supplies. A well-organized sled bag helps a musher access gear quickly during stops.