How to use the Starfield boost pack

A Starfield character vaulting across a lunar landscape with the help of their Boost Pack. — (Image credit: Bethesda)

If you've arrived here frustrated that your Starfield boost pack doesn't seem to be working, don't feel dismayed by how simple the solution is. You aren't the only one who found it confusing.

How to use a boost pack

With a boost pack equipped, jump (Space on a keyboard, Y on an Xbox controller), and then press the jump button again mid-air to activate the thrusters. If that doesn't do anything, it's because...

You need the Boost Pack Training skill

If your boost pack isn't working, it's probably because you don't have a rank in the Boost Pack Training skill. Lots of actions in Starfield require at least one rank in an associated skill. Without any Boost Pack Training, trying to use a boost pack won't do anything. Here's what you get with each tier of the skill:

Rank 1: You can now utilize boost packs.
Rank 2: Using a boost pack expends less fuel.
Rank 3: Boost pack fuel regenerates more quickly.
Rank 4: Doubles previous bonuses.

You can still wear a boost pack even if you don't have a rank in its skill, which is what makes things confusing: You're walking around with a boost pack on your back, but the boost pack on your back isn't boosting your back, what the... hack?

You don't need to go beyond Rank 1 unless you're really into boosting, but you'll definitely want that first rank.

Aside from Boost Pack Training, we recommend getting four other skills as soon as possible: Targeting Control Systems, Stealth, Persuasion, and Security. You can start the game with some of those by choosing one of the more practical Starfield backgrounds during character creation, but don't let practicality stop you from roleplaying as a chef, if you really want to. Check out our complete list of Starfield skills for a full rundown of the curriculum for your character's development.

Tyler grew up in Silicon Valley during the '80s and '90s, playing games like Zork and Arkanoid on early PCs. He was later captivated by Myst, SimCity, Civilization, Command & Conquer, all the shooters they call "boomer shooters" now, and PS1 classic Bushido Blade (that's right: he had Bleem!). Tyler joined PC Gamer in 2011, and today he's focused on the site's news coverage. His hobbies include amateur boxing and adding to his 1,200-plus hours in Rocket League.