One of America's Quirkiest Winter Traditions: Thousands Flock to this Southern Small Town to Score Deals on Ski Gear from Lost Luggage

Unclaimed Baggage Draws National Crowds for Unbeatable Winter Shopping at its 44th Annual "Ski Sale" Event

SCOTTSBORO, Ala., Oct. 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Alabama may not be known for its snow-covered slopes, but it is home to one of America's largest ski events - and it all comes from lost luggage. On Saturday, Nov. 1, thousands of travelers, skiers and bargain hunters from across the U.S. will descend on Scottsboro, Alabama for the 44th Annual Ski Sale Event at Unclaimed Baggage, the nation's only retailer of lost luggage. This one-day spectacle will offer more than 50,000 square feet of ski gear, winter wear and holiday treasures at up to 80% off retail value.

The Only Ski Event of Its Kind 

Since 1981, the event has become one of America's biggest and most unusual shopping traditions. Shoppers camp out overnight, many traveling hundreds of miles, to claim their spot in line. Every item sold comes from unclaimed luggage - goods once packed for journeys which took an unexpected detour. Ranked in the top 10% of international travel destinations by Tripadvisor's 2025 Travelers' Choice Awards, Unclaimed Baggage gives these items a new life, offering shoppers sustainable and affordable alternatives at a time when budgets are tight. 

Year-round, the retailer saves up all ski gear and winter wear that comes through its facilities - rolling them out at this one-day event each year. Aisles are stocked with skis, snowboards and helmets at steep discounts alongside top outdoor brands like Patagonia, Arc'teryx, Canada Goose, Moncler and The North Face. This year promises more product than ever before, including tens of thousands of winter items, surprise rollouts throughout the day and a jumbo tent in the parking lot to house the overflow. 

"This event is one of America's most delightfully unexpected traditions," said Sonni Hood, brand spokesperson. "It's quirky, it's sustainable, and it brings thousands together to celebrate the thrill of discovery."

The Inaugural "Ski Sale Fest" Camping Experience

For more than a decade, Unclaimed Baggage has treated its most dedicated Ski Sale shoppers to a unique camping experience the night before the event. Tents are pitched, RVs are parked and families settle in to secure an early spot in line - enjoying games, giveaways, movies and more. The next morning, the first 50 guests in line earn a 30-minute head start and the chance to win a $450 shopping spree.

This year, the retailer has announced its first-ever "Ski Sale Fest" camping experience – a free, family-friendly event designed for both adults and children. On Halloween night, guests will enjoy:

• Live concert from Nashville singer-songwriter, Morgan Alexander
• Food trucks and firepits
• Hayrides through a cemetery
• Outdoor movies under the stars 
• Snow machines creating flurries in Alabama's autumn air
• Reservable tents for camping (proceeds donated to a local homeless service center)

Now in its 44th year, the Ski Sale Event has become a generational tradition - a quirky pilgrimage that has secured its place among America's most unforgettable destinations. 

For more information about the 44th Annual Ski Sale, visit Ski Sale 2025 – Unclaimed Baggage. 

About Unclaimed Baggage

Located in Scottsboro, Alabama, Unclaimed Baggage is the nation's only retailer of lost luggage, offering a treasure trove of goods that airlines have been unable to reunite with their former owners. Since opening in 1970, Unclaimed Baggage has repeatedly made national news for its ever-changing array of unique items from around the world, all sold at an incredible value. Learn about Unclaimed Baggage at unclaimedbaggage.com.

SOURCE Unclaimed Baggage