Traveling with Golf Clubs by plane

Flying With Golf Clubs: Everything You Need To Know

Contents

1 Can You Bring Golf Bags on a Plane?
2 Do I Need a Special Bag to Travel with Golf Clubs?
3 How Much Does It Cost to Fly a Golf Bag?
4 How Heavy Is a Golf Bag for a Flight?
5 Is a Golf Bag Considered an Overweight Bag?
6 Can I Bring a Golf Club as a Carry-On?
7 Safeguarding Your Golf Clubs and Putter

Golf enthusiasts often dream of playing on the world’s most beautiful and unique courses. However, the thought of traveling with their precious clubs can deter many from embarking on such adventures. The image of golf clubs loosely tumbling amongst other baggage, at risk of damage, is enough to make any golfer cringe. Yet, with proper planning and preparation, flying with your golf clubs can be a breeze, allowing you to explore new greens around the globe with confidence.

Can You Bring Golf Bags on a Plane?

Absolutely! Airlines are accustomed to transporting golf bags and offer specific guidelines for doing so. Your golf bag will typically be checked as special baggage, separate from your standard check-in luggage.

TSA: Golf Clubs

Do I Need a Special Bag to Travel with Golf Clubs?

Investing in a high-quality golf travel bag is crucial for protecting your clubs during transit. Hard-shell cases offer the best protection against impacts, while soft-sided bags are lighter and may offer more flexibility. Make sure the bag has enough padding to protect the clubs, and consider adding extra cushioning around club heads.

How Much Does It Cost to Fly a Golf Bag?

Airlines consider golf clubs as regular checked baggage, provided they are adequately packed and secured. There’s no additional fee merely for transporting them. Interestingly, certain airlines permit golf bags as carry-on if they weigh under 50 pounds, aligning with the universal carry-on weight limit. This weight also coincides with the maximum for a typical golf bag size. To avoid hefty overweight charges, it’s wise to weigh your bag before your trip.

Some airlines charge extra fees ranging from $25 to $100 or more. Always check your airline’s policy ahead of your trip.

How Heavy Is a Golf Bag for a Flight?

The weight of a golf bag can vary, especially once clubs, balls, and accessories are added. On average, a fully packed golf bag weighs around 30 to 50 pounds. Airlines generally have a weight limit for sports equipment, typically around 50 pounds, before incurring additional fees.

Is a Golf Bag Considered an Overweight Bag?

A golf bag can be considered overweight if it exceeds the airline’s specified weight limit for checked baggage or sports equipment, often 50 pounds. Exceeding this limit may result in additional charges, so it’s essential to weigh your bag before heading to the airport.

Can I Bring a Golf Club as a Carry-On?

Golf clubs are not allowed as carry-on items due to their size and potential use as a weapon. They must be packed within your checked golf bag. Always verify with your airline’s carry-on restrictions before packing.

Safeguarding Your Golf Clubs and Putter

You likely already keep a towel in your golf bag, and when traveling, you’ll probably pack a golf jacket and some extra clothes you don’t mind wrinkling. Using these towels and garments to wrap around the clubs protruding from your bag can significantly reduce the risk of damage. This becomes particularly convenient after a trip, when you can use your laundry to pad the bag and shield your clubs. Beyond just wrapping, investing in a padded, high-quality travel bag is crucial for the optimal protection of your clubs during travel. A robust travel bag is the cornerstone of a hassle-free experience when flying with your golf equipment.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

Check Airline Policies: Before you book, confirm the airline’s policy on transporting golf clubs, including fees and weight limits.
Protect Your Clubs: Use a sturdy golf travel bag, add extra padding, and consider a bag with wheels for easier transport.
Label Your Bag: Ensure your golf bag is clearly labeled with your contact information in case it gets misplaced.
Remove Valuables: Take out any valuables or irreplaceable items from your golf bag before checking it.
Consider Insurance: Look into travel or sports equipment insurance for added peace of mind.

Traveling with golf clubs doesn’t have to dampen your spirit of adventure. With the right preparation, you can tee off on some of the world’s most spectacular courses, assured that your clubs are safe and sound. So, pack your bags, secure your clubs, and set off to conquer new greens across the globe!

How to Bring Golf Clubs on a Plane?
AA: Special items and sports equipment
PGA: Flying With Golf Clubs?