How to Travel With Golf Clubs

Traveling with golf clubs doesn’t need to be a hassle. If you have the right information and do some careful planning, it can be an enjoyable experience for any golfer.

From figuring out how to pack them safely for the airplane to learning what restrictions airlines may have when flying with golf clubs, this article will provide insight into the best ways to travel with your golf clubs.

What are the Downsides of Traveling With Golf Clubs?

Before you head out on your next vacation, you should make sure you’re aware of the downsides that come with traveling with golf clubs.

Damage to the clubs

During transit, golf clubs can be subjected to heavy handling, which may lead to scratches, dents, or even broken clubs. The delicate nature of these items makes them susceptible to damage, particularly the club heads and shafts.

Damage to the bag

Golf bags, especially soft-sided ones, can also incur damage during travel. They can be torn or scuffed due to rough handling.

Loss or theft

There’s a risk of the golf clubs being lost or stolen during travel. This is especially true on flights with multiple layovers or transfers.

Excess baggage fees

Golf clubs can result in hefty excess airline baggage fees, adding extra cost to your trip.

Inconvenience of transport

Carrying a large golf bag can be inconvenient when navigating busy airports or public transportation.

How to Travel With Golf Clubs

Don’t let the downsides stop you from traveling with your golf clubs. Here are a few tips to help make it a successful trip.

Get a Reliable Golf Club Travel Bag

A reliable golf club travel bag is quintessential when planning to fly with your clubs. It protects your golf bag from potential damage and ensures that your clubs, golf shoes, technology like golf rangefinders, and golf balls arrive at your destination in good condition.

Airline baggage handlers don’t always have the time to treat every bag carefully; hence, a sturdy travel golf bag can withstand the rough treatment while protecting your clubs.

Additionally, travel bags designed specifically for golf clubs often have features such as padded tops for extra club protection, rolling wheels for easy transportation, and lockable zippers for added security.

Investing in a high-quality golf club travel bag gives you peace of mind during your travel.

Hard-Sided vs. Soft-Sided

When deciding on a golf club travel bag, one of the key considerations is whether to opt for a hard-sided or a soft-sided bag. Both types have their pros and cons.

Hard-sided golf club bags offer superior protection, safeguarding your clubs from rough handling. They’re highly resilient, making them ideal for frequent travelers or those who own expensive clubs. However, they are bulkier, heavier, and generally more expensive than their soft-sided counterparts.

On the other hand, soft-sided golf club bags are lightweight and more compact, making them easier to handle and store. They usually include padded interiors for club protection and additional pockets for extra storage. While they may not provide the same level of protection as hard-sided bags, high-quality soft-sided bags offer sufficient protection for most travel situations.

Choosing the Appropriate Airline

When it comes to flying with golf clubs, picking the right airline can significantly impact your travel experience.

It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the various airlines’ policies on handling golf clubs. Different airlines have different baggage policies and charges, which could potentially add a significant amount to your travel costs.

Southwest Airlines, for example, stands out as an excellent choice for golfers because they don’t charge an additional fee for golf bags. This is a significant benefit as it can help you save money.

Also Read: How to Clean a Golf Bag

Avoid Layovers

Non-stop flights are a great option when traveling with golf clubs because they significantly reduce the risk of losing your clubs in transit.

When your journey involves layovers or connecting flights, your clubs need to be transferred from one airplane to another, which increases the chances of misplacement or loss.

With non-stop flights, your clubs remain in the same airplane from point A to point B, minimizing the chances of getting lost.

Utilize AirTags for Enhanced Security

AirTags can help offset some of the challenges of traveling with golf clubs.

AirTags are small, coin-shaped devices by Apple that can be attached to your golf club travel bag or placed inside. These devices use Bluetooth technology to connect with your iPhone, allowing you to track your bag’s location via the Find My app.

In the unfortunate event that your golf bag is misplaced or lost during transit, an AirTag can assist in locating your bag quickly. Plus, using AirTags also provides an additional layer of security against theft. If someone were to steal your bag, you could track its location in real time, increasing the chances of recovery.

Should You Ship Golf Clubs Instead?

Shipping your golf clubs to your desired destination is an alternative worth considering, especially if you want to avoid the potential hassles associated with airline travel.

Using a reliable golf club shipping service, you can ensure that your clubs arrive safely and on time at your destination.

These services typically offer door-to-door pick-up and delivery, insurance coverage, and real-time tracking, which can provide a great deal of convenience and peace of mind.

While shipping your golf clubs might involve an additional cost, the convenience and assurance it provides might make it a viable option for your next golf trip.

The Bottom Line

Traveling with golf clubs doesn’t have to be a stressful endeavor. By investing in a reliable golf club travel bag, choosing airlines with favorable golf club policies, and considering the option of shipping your clubs, you can ensure that your equipment arrives safely and is ready for play.

Frequently Asked Questions About Flying With Golf Clubs

How much does it cost to take a set of golf clubs on an airplane?

The cost of taking a set of golf clubs on an airplane can vary significantly depending on the airline’s baggage policies. Some airlines, like Southwest Airlines, allow golf clubs to be checked without an additional fee as part of your luggage allowance. However, many airlines will charge an oversize or overweight luggage fee, which can range anywhere from $75 to $150 each way. Note that these fees are in addition to any standard baggage fees that the airline may charge. Always remember to check your airline’s specific baggage policy to get the most accurate information.

How do you secure golf clubs on a plane?

Securing golf clubs for a plane journey involves a few key steps. First, you should invest in a high-quality golf travel bag specifically designed for air travel. These bags typically feature a hard exterior shell or a padded interior to protect your clubs from the rough handling they may encounter.

Next, remove any loose items or detachable parts from your clubs to prevent them from causing damage or getting lost. Cover your club heads with headcovers, especially for your driver and woods, as these are the most vulnerable to damage. Consider wrapping towels or bubble wrap around the clubs for extra protection.

Finally, use a TSA-approved lock to secure your bag. This ensures that your bag is accessible for inspection by TSA agents yet secure against unauthorized access.

Can you carry a putter on a plane?

Carrying a putter or any other golf club on a plane as carry-on luggage is generally not allowed by most airlines due to security concerns. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines, golf clubs are only permitted in checked baggage. Therefore, you should always pack your putter and other golf clubs securely in a proper golf bag and check them in before traveling.

Is there a weight limit when flying with golf clubs?

Yes, there is typically a weight limit when flying with golf clubs, and it varies based on the airline. Most airlines set a weight limit for checked baggage, which includes golf clubs. This limit is usually around 50 pounds (23 kilograms) but can vary.

If your golf bag exceeds the airline’s weight limit, you may be required to pay an overweight baggage fee. These fees can be substantial, so it’s wise to check your airline’s specific weight restrictions before you travel.