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The 10 Best Travel Golf Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Make sure your clubs arrive safely with these durable and portable travel golf bags.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Testing Process

• Others We Liked
• Other Gear You May Need
• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Labor Day is around the corner, and with it are great deals on some of our favorite travel golf bags. Score early savings on the CaddyDaddy Golf Travel Bag Cover with Hard Case Top and the TourTrek TC Pro Travel Cover .

A durable golf travel bag is essential for protecting your clubs and giving you peace of mind whether you’re traveling by car or airplane to one of the world’s best courses. While there are plenty of storage options for safely traveling with your clubs, we tested the best golf travel bags based on qualities like durability, portability, and capacity. 

We love a gold bag that is made with durable materials with plenty of padding to ensure that your clubs make it to your destination safely. We were able to fit clubs, clothes, golf balls, and other accessories into our bags without any issues. Whether you’re looking for a hardside case or a budget-friendly bag, we found options for a variety of categories to fit the needs of all golfers. 

Best Overall

Club glove last bag large pro.

It’s built to last with single webbing reinforcement and burst-proof construction. 

The bag weighs more than 10 pounds.

The Club Glove Last Bag Large Pro golf travel bag is one of the best-made travel bags we've seen. Fit for a weekend golf getaway , the bag can comfortably fit a set of clubs in a standard-size carrier, golf balls, shirts, shorts, towels, and two pairs of golf shoes between the main compartment and two exterior pockets. Despite the 45-pound weight after packing, we thought the balance was evenly distributed throughout the bag and the inline skate wheels rolled smoothly and felt sturdy due to the plastic wheelbase that is designed for high-impact travel. We noted the high-quality feel of the water-resistant nylon material that adds durability to the bag, which truly feels like it will last a lifetime.

The bag is outfitted with self-lubricating YKK zippers and ITW Nexus buckles that come from a manufacturer that makes military-grade hoops, locks, and buckles. An aluminum stiff arm to reinforce the padded protection for impact during traveling is included. We flew with this bag twice in one month of testing, and it still looks like it just came out of the box. The durability, functionality, and sleek design of the Club Glove Last Bag Large Pro Golf Travel Bag make it well worth the price for golfers that are planning to travel with their clubs. 

The Details: 86 x 19 x 51 inches | 10.6 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Kyle Tyll

Best Budget

Caddydaddy constrictor 2 travel cover.

This affordable bag has large pockets that can store all of your extra gear.

The sides aren't padded, so you may want to add cushioning to protect your clubs.

For frequent travelers or golfers who want an affordable bag that can store even their bulkiest gear, this CaddyDaddy bag is the perfect option. Not only is the bag itself large enough to store all of your clubs, but we love that it also features side pockets big enough to pack your shoes and even extra clothing. Even with all of this space, the bag still doesn't feel bulky.

The fabric is thick and well-stitched. Made of thick rubber and nylon, we feel confident this bag won't break, tear, or otherwise fall apart, making it a great value — and it's the lowest priced option on this list. To give you added peace of mind, it comes with a one-year full replacement warranty so you can test it for yourself.

The Details: 27.5 x 18.9 x 14.5 inches | 9 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon and rubber

Most Spacious

Caddydaddy golf club travel cover with wheels.

The interior has tons of room for clothing or shoes in addition to golf clubs. 

It has straps that are slightly uncomfortable.

The CaddyDaddy First Class Premium Padded Golf Club Travel Cover has tons of space for not only clubs, but also golf shoes, clothing, and anything else you would ever need on a golf trip. Since the golf travel bag weighs 10 pounds, golfers can pack up to 40 pounds of clubs, clothes, and other accessories before reaching the general 50-pound checked bag limit for most airlines. We loved the spacious side pockets for toiletries and golf shoes, as well as the well-placed straps that can be tucked in during traveling to prevent damage.

The weight of the golf bag is mostly evenly balanced, and the wheels and handles make it easy to carry and maneuver; however, the top handle could have been a little more comfortable. The materials and the zippers of the bag feel durable and well-made. We're confident that this bag would last a very long time and would not be something you'd have to worry about replacing anytime soon.

The Details: 51 x 13 x 15 inches | 10 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Best Softside

Sun mountain clubglider meridian travel cover.

There are fold-out legs in the center with wheels that make rolling this softside bag even easier.

Travelers might want to consider a stiff arm for added protection.

For golfers looking for a simple yet functional golf travel bag, the Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover is a solid softside option. The design of the bag includes everything you need for a hassle-free packing and travel experience, including a spacious interior for a cart or stand bag, two exterior pockets, and a pull-out leg mechanism with an additional pair of wheels besides the ones at the bottom of the bag. We found it very easy to collapse the legs in and out, and the bag rolled a lot more smoothly than expected.

The high-quality, durable feel of the handles on the front, bottom, and middle of the bag equally impressed us by making it a breeze to lift and maneuver comfortably. While the nylon exterior material and padding feel sturdy and durable, the bag would likely only protect golf clubs against low-impact hits.

The Details: 51 x 15 x 14 inches | 8 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / David Engler

Most Durable

Club glove collegiate travel cover with stiff arm.

It comes with a stiff arm to protect the heads of the clubs.

Packing the clubs was a tight fit with the length.

Traveling by air with golf clubs can be risky considering the potential for rough handling that comes with checking in luggage , but the Club Glove Last Bag Collegiate Travel Cover with Stiff Arm is made of high-quality materials and includes a stiff arm that is designed to protect gear from hard impact. The adjustable stiff arm is made of nylon plastic and lightweight aluminum, and although it doesn’t take up much room, we had to jostle the bag to get the stiff arm in with the golf clubs. With the smaller interior, we appreciated the two large exterior pockets that can fit some additional items like shoes, clothing, or sunscreen . The fully packed bag is comfortable to carry with top, bottom, and middle straps that evenly distribute the weight of the lengthy bag, and we liked how it can stand up on its own.

After flying with this Club Glove design, there weren’t any scuffs or damage to the bag. The exterior of the bag is made of water-resistant ballistic nylon fabric, and the backing has single webbing reinforcement — a common fabric used for climbing, military gear, and parachutes. 

The Details: 52 x 14 x 14 inches | 11.3 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Karen Chen

Best Portability

Izzo golf high roller.

There are six wheels on the bottom of the bag so you can roll it upright. 

It feels slightly top-heavy.

The Izzo High Roller golf bag impressed us with how easy it was to transport by wheeling or carrying it. The six wheels on the bottom of the bag make it possible to push or pull it while it's standing upright. In addition, the bag can collapse down to just 12 inches for easy storage while traveling or at home.

While the bag felt a little top-heavy while we wheeled through an airport, the handles made it easy to lift and hold onto while rolling the bag. Even if the bag were to fall over, it has a solid amount of protective padding on the inside and outside, and it’s made with tear-resistant nylon that feels sturdy and durable. The interior of the bag is large enough for golf clubs and extra shirts, and the exterior pocket is big enough for a pair of golf shoes, but it was a tighter fit than we would’ve preferred. We think the Izzo High Roller bag is perfect for golfers who could benefit from having exceptional portability and durability while traveling through airports.

Dimensions: 53 x 16 x 12 inches | 8 pounds | Nylon

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Martin Schnurr

Best Hybrid

Caddydaddy golf travel bag cover with hard case top.

Only the top half is made with a hardside material, which makes storing the bag much easier.

It feels top-heavy when you're carrying it.

The CaddyDaddy Enforcer Golf Travel Bag Cover With Hard Case Top is designed with traveling golfers in mind, especially those who live in big cities with limited storage space. This golf bag has a unique design in which the top half is a hardside case and the bottom half is softside. The partial hardside design gives you the protection you want for your clubs, and we love how the bag can compress into itself, making it more space efficient for storing when not in use.

The exterior of the bag has two pockets for storing balls or shoes, and although there aren’t any pockets on the inside, there was a good amount of room left over for clothes. Though the hardside top makes it slightly top heavy, the bag maneuvers well on the inline skate wheels at the bottom, while the top, bottom, and center handle make it easy to lift the bag into a car or onto a weight scale at the airport. 

The Details: 51 x 13 x 13 inches | 9 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Allison Widmer

Best Lightweight

Tourtrek tc pro travel cover.

This bag feels lightweight whether you're pushing it or pulling it over a variety of surfaces.

The interior of the bag could be bigger.

The TourTrek TC Pro Travel Cover offers an abundance of protective padding and excellent portability. We think this bag is a fantastic value thanks to durable design and interior space that’s roomy enough for a set of golf clubs and two mesh pockets for accessories, as well as an exterior pocket for a pair of shoes. The cushioning is very generous, and the bag feels protective and sturdy with 360-degree padding to keep your golf clubs safe whether you’re traveling by air or car. The handles are padded as well, making them comfortable to hold onto while lifting or rolling the bag. And it includes a lock and key set for an additional layer of security and peace of mind.

Weighing just 6.6 pounds, this golf travel bag is lightweight and takes up less of the allotted 50-pound weight maximum that most airlines limit checked bags to. While we think the interior could be a little bit bigger, this golf travel bag has high-quality features that lead us to believe it will protect golf clubs through rough travels and last a long time with prolonged use, too. 

The Details: 52 x 14 x 14 inches | 6.6 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

• PHOTO: Travel & Leisure / Chris Abell

Best Design

Stitch multi use traveler.

It's incredibly portable and easy to maneuver.

The bag is not very padded.

The Stitch Multi Use Traveler (or MUT) is really unique for a travel golf bag. It fits a ton of gear including shoes, outerwear, and accessories. When we checked this bag to bring it on a trip to Florida, it held six pairs of shoes, two rain jackets , a dopp kit, and plenty of golf balls and towels, in addition to the golf clubs. The design is where this bag shines — its nylon exterior is durable but has a premium look; the orange zippers pop and make it easy to spot on an oversize luggage pile; and the handles are in convenient, cohesive places.

The wheels are great, and while it occasionally felt imbalanced, we think that was due to overpacking as we found it much easier to maneuver the bag when packed with clubs alone. While the bag is not padded, it is made of durable, sturdy nylon that doesn't show scuffs or minor tears.

The Details: 22.8 x 12 x 12 inches | Wheeled | Nylon

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Red Fabbri

Best Splurge

Tumi sport golf travel case.

This Tumi bag is spacious and rolls easily.

We wish it had more internal pockets to help with organization.

We flew with this bag carrying clubs in a standard golf cart bag, shoes, hats, a speaker , and a few other accessories. The case was easy to drag through the parking lot, into the airport tram, and up and down escalators. The wheels were slick and easily turned around reasonably tight corners and around slow airport travelers. Additionally, the side handles are convenient for lifting the case up horizontally to put it in and out of vehicles. It was also easy to pull on and off of the baggage claim belt as a result of the handles and big wheels at the bottom of the case.

The external zippers have very long pulls that were easy to maneuver and slide around the case. The clubs themselves are secured by two straps with a standard quick release buckle on a one-inch nylon strap. The main compartment is padded all around and has as special layer of padding for the club heads. Padding around the club heads is important because in transit they can typically bang together/bang into other external objects and become damaged. This is not something we worried about at all using this case. The exterior of the case did have some scruffs and scrapes after landing, but the fact that all internal items were well-protected makes this a high-quality choice.

The Details: 54.4 x 17.1 x 13.5 inches | 17.4 pounds | Wheeled | Polycarbonate

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Michael Weisbaum

We had our expert Travel + Leisure golfers take 21 golf travel bags on the road to find out which ones will keep your clubs safe whether you’re flying or driving. We evaluated the bags by flying, driving, walking around, and carrying the bags, taking detailed notes on the capacity, design, durability, and portability. 

Our team members packed their golf clubs into the travel bags and noted how easy it was to place the clubs into them and if there was room leftover for clothes, shoes, golf balls, or other accessories between the main compartment and any pockets. While packing the bags, we checked the quality of the zippers and buckles, as well as how much padding there was and if it felt sufficient for protecting the clubs. We looked for spacious bags that had extra room leftover after packing our golf clubs. We also loved the bags that had thoughtful and intuitive features that had golfers in mind because they made packing easier.

Travel + Leisure / Martin Schnurr

After packing up the travel bags, our traveling golfers tested portability by carrying and wheeling the bags to get a feel for how they maneuvered. The top performing bags for portability were exceptionally easy to lift and wheel with comfortable, padded straps and handles. The most durable bags stood up well to car and plane travel, with no damage to the exterior or items on the interior. We determined that the bags with the best value performed as or better than expected given the price, especially pricier bags that needed robust justification for the cost.

Other Golf Travel Bags We Liked

While we found plenty of well-performing golf travel bags, there were a few that almost made our list of best golf travel bags but fell short during testing. 

Samsonite Golf Deluxe 3-piece Travel Set : The bag is functional and has a sleek design, but there isn’t much padding, and the zippers are plastic, which made us question the durability of the bag while flying. 

Samsonite Hard Side Golf Case : This hardside case feels durable, but it doesn't have much give, so it was a tight fit to get the golf clubs in, and the case is difficult to store since it can’t break down.

Amazon Basics Soft-sided Golf Travel Bag : This bag is very affordable but has an unstructured bottom, so it can't stand up on its own.

SKB Cases ATA Deluxe Standard Hard Travel Golf Case : This case was built to withstand a lot of rough handling and has TSA-approved locks, but can become heavy due to its thick plastic.

Bag Boy Golf T10 Hard Top Cover : For minimalist golfers, this simple bag fits just what you need, but won't give you room for extra equipment or gear.

Travel + Leisure / Karen Chen

Other Golf Gear You May Need

When you're heading out for a long day on the course, be sure you're prepared with everything you need, from sunscreen to golf pants , to ensure you stay completely focused on enjoying the game.

Titleist Players Flex Men’s Golf Glove : These high-performance gloves are a classic for a reason. The cabretta leather is silky smooth, offering optimal comfort and breathability so your hands won't sweat midswing. Plus, the Satin Net materials across the knuckles provide plenty of flexibility.

Peter Millar Solid Performance Jersey Polo : If you're someone who gets caught up in the game and forgets to reapply sunscreen, this golf shirt is for you. Not only is it made of moisture-wicking materials available in 13 vibrant colors, but it also provides UPF 50+ sun protection so you can stay safe without even thinking about it.

Adidas Men's Tour360 22 Golf Shoes : These shoes provide excellent cushioning to keep you comfortable all day long and still feature 11 metal spikes for traction and grip. They're also designed with roomy toe boxes and heel reinforcement to ensure your foot stays in place.

Tips for Buying a Golf Travel Bag

Consider buying a stiff arm .

Whether you’re buying a hardside or softside golf travel bag, a stiff arm can add another layer of protection to your golf clubs. A stiff arm is usually an adjustable metal rod with a plastic disc at the the top of it that extends longer than the driver or longest golf club. The rod is placed into a golf bag to absorb the hit if the bag is tossed around, and it prevent the clubs from being directly impacted. 

Hardside versus softside 

When looking for a travel golf bag, you'll want to look at durability and padding. Both hardside and softside golf travel bags can prevent damage to your golf clubs while traveling and are a worthwhile investment for golfers that travel several times per year. As with luggage, hardside bags have a firm exterior generally made of materials like polycarbonate, whereas softside bags are a bit more flexible and made of soft materials like nylon.

A hardside bag can get more scuffed than a softside golf bag, but you might not need to buy a stiff arm since a hard case offers a more structured layer of protection. On the other hand, a softside bag might need extra protection like a stiff arm, but it’s easier to store a soft bag than a bulky hardside case that you can't flatten or fold down. Some airlines will only cover damaged or lost clubs that are in a hardside case, so be sure to check with the airline to find out the exact policies. 

Look at the types of wheels

From upright wheels to inline skate wheels, golf bags are created with a variety of options to make transport easier for all types of players. You should look at wheels that will smoothly and easily roll over different terrains without adding weight to the overall bag.

Frequently Asked Questions

You’ll want to make sure your golf bag and clubs can fit in a travel bag. While you don’t want to squeeze your clubs inside, you won’t want them swimming in a roomy case either. It helps to wrap club heads in a towel or other soft fabric to prevent the irons from banging together in transit. If there is extra room in your travel bag, stuffing the sides with more clothing or towels can help keep everything in place, especially if you’re flying. If you can remove and cover the club heads, that can further prevent damage to your gear. Some travel golf bags also have space for shoes and accessories, so be sure to utilize pockets to keep your gear organized and separated.

Every airline will be different, but most follow the same policies as regular checked luggage regarding weight and size limitations. The weight limit for checked luggage, including golf clubs, is almost always 50 pounds or less. If your bag weighs more, there will likely be a surcharge fee. Airlines also have different restrictions and policies for packing golf shoes or balls in your bag, and coverage for lost golf bags can be dependent on the type of golf travel bag. For peace of mind, consider securing an AirTag holder with a tracker to your golf bag.

Generally, airlines do not pay travelers for damaged golf clubs. Some, like American Airlines , may compensate if the equipment traveled in a hardside case that is visibly damaged and was properly packed, but you should always check your specific airline's policies before flying to guarantee safe and secure travel.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is the associate editor at T+L, where she writes and reviews travel products. She has been travel writing since 2018 and product testing since 2021. Anna worked with travel editors to determine the results for the best golf travel bags based on a series of tests completed by our testers while using the golf travel bags in a real-world setting. 

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Related Articles

Best Golf Travel Bags 2024 – Hard and Soft Cases

Last Updated on January 16, 2024 by Matt Greene *Read our  review guidelines .

What are the best golf travel bags for airlines? You want a strong bag to protect those valuable clubs because airlines do not like paying you for broken clubs.

I've traveled to 15 countries with my clubs and never had a single breakage. That's a combination of both the right golf club travel bag and expert packing.

I've been on some of the worst airlines you can imagine and never had a breakage. I'm confident that you'll make the right choice after reading this article. The best golf travel bag currently is the SKB Deluxe Hard Cover golf bag . 

Best Golf Travel Bags for Airlines in 2023

• SKB Deluxe ATA Hard Cover (best value with superior guarantee) 
• CaddyDaddy First Class Premium  (best for frequent travelers - airline guarantee)
• Club Glove Last Bag Soft Cover (more spacious - used by Tour pros)
• CaddyDaddy Enforce Hybrid Cover (lightweight soft-hard combo)
• Sun Mountain Club Glider Meridian Soft Cover (easiest for check in)
• GTB Caravan 3.0 Soft Cover (best cheap travel bag)

*All of these bags are compliant with airline policies. The only thing to remember is the weight restrictions and to double check the airline policies to ensure once the bag is packed, it doesn't exceed maximum weight - usually around 50 lbs.

SKB Deluxe ATA Golf Travel Bag

A Sherman tank with a million mile warranty

The American-made SKB Deluxe is made of molded polyethylene which makes it not only dirt and moisture resistant but extremely strong. So strong in fact, that the manufacturer offers $1500 club coverage and a million mile guarantee on the case.

With that sturdiness and strength comes a bit of extra weight though and at 18 lbs, the SKB travel bag isn't light. With your bag loaded inside, you might have enough airline weight allowance for a pair of golf shoes.

You'll be able to put pretty much any bag in here but it works especially well for good 14 way stand bags and push cart bags . It's a tight fit for larger cart bags and staff bags but with a bit of effort, it'll hold it all. The inline skate wheels make wheeling this solid structure around very easy.

There are three locks on the bag and keys are included. A TSA lock is included which is fantastic because this bag is a magnet for TSA and will be checked. It's always best not to put too much loose stuff in the case because the ever reliable TSA will reliably lose it for you.

One of the other areas that could be improved actually, are the locks. They could be made of a material more in-line with the sturdiness of the case but are made of a hard plastic. They do however work very well. 

This is easily the best hard case golf travel bag on the market.

• Extremely strong - probably the last travel bag you'll buy
• Fits even tour staff bags
• Incredible $1500 club coverage and million mile warranty
• Comes with TSA approved lock
• Water and dust resistant
• Heavy at 18 lbs

Caddy Daddy First Class Premium

Best bag for frequent travelers

The First Class Travel Cover is uses the very best YKK zippers and has a wheelbase that let's the bag stand by itself. but the clincher for the CaddyDaddy is that CaddyDaddy covers any damage caused by airlines for 2 years on the the First Class model with no limitations.

Two layers of EVA foam protects your clubs and internal pockets can be stuffed with clothes and shoes to add extra protection. The First Class Travel golf bag has been made purposefully with the golf traveler in mind whether by air or road. 

Material:  1000D Ballistic nylon Dimensions:  15 x 13 x 51 inches Weight:  10 pounds Wheels: 2

• Durable construction with tough nylon fabric
• Big pockets to store more items like balls and shoes and alcohol
• Heavy duty wheels that won't break all the time
• Two year replacement warranty even if the airlines damage your bag
• No hard cover option in this bag

Club Glove Last Bag

Trusted by Tour pros and comes in 20 colors

This travel golf bag from Club Glove is spacious and strong enough that it is the most trusted bag on the PGA Tour among the pros. It's water resistant and comes in 20 colors. 

it can hold even a big Tour bag and two pairs of shoes. There's just so much space and with the light weight, you have 40 lbs to stuff everything you can into your golf bag. It's made in the USA and includes high quality YKK zippers and ITW Nexus buckles and if you know anything about zippers and clasps, these are the highest quality. Placing your clubs inside the bag is easy and once you zip it closed, you can then connect the buckles for a tight fit without any club rattle.

Materials: 1000 D nylon/cordura Dimension:  51 x 19 x 16 inches Weight: 10.6 pounds Wheels:  2

If you want to add another level of club safety in a soft cover bag, take a look at  the Stiff Arm  and for TSA approved locks, you can't go wrong with a cheap  Master lock . 

• Very roomy inside 
• Excellent zipper and clasp system to keep clubs from rattling around
• Lifetime warranty - trusted by Justin Rose, DJ, Justin Thomas
• Extra padding around where the club heads go
• Very pricey

CaddyDaddy Enforcer travel bag

Lightweight budget option for stress-free packing

The CaddyDaddy Enforcer Hard top is a hybrid golf travel bag so it has a soft body but a top piece which is hard. There are two huge pockets on the side of the Enforcer which hold your shoes, jackets and some sneaky extra luggage. 

When I store the Enforcer when I'm not traveling, the soft part of the bag folds into the top hard case. You zip it closed and it's a compact package to put inside a cupboard. Easy storage.

Materials:  1800D fabric Dimension: 51 x 13 x 15 inches Weight:  9 pounds Wheels:  2

• Very well priced
• Business card window on the fancy baggage tag means it's not getting stolen
• Internal compression straps to stop bag movement
• Loads of storage space internally and externally
• Very easy to store when you're not using it
• Cart bags or stand bags fit in here easily
• Internal strap not the best for holding clubs in place
• Reinforcement around your clubs is advised as there is not much padding

Sun Mountain Club Glider Meridian

Easiest to wheel through check-in lines

The Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian golf travel bag will glide with you at the airport on the four wheels with ease. This golf travel bag won the  Golf Digest Editors’ Choice award six years in a row.

There is a second set of wheels that retract along with the built-in inline skate wheels. You can pull your bag everywhere around the airport, never feeling the full weight of the bag. The ClubGlider takes all thr weight off your arm. The bag never topples over despite being top heavy with your irons.

The Sun Mountain has enough space for your golf bag with club, a small carry on and golf shoes. There's a one year warranty on the Club Glider Meridian travel bag itself but not on your clubs which the SKB does offer at a lower price point.

Overall, a nice bag that will need a bit more support around the club heads but there is no easier golf travel bag to wheel around.

Material: Ballistic nylon Dimensions:  52 x 14 x 14 inches Weight:  11 pounds Wheels:  4

• Sole focus here is to wheel your bag around super easily
• Four wheels turn the bag into a trolley on its own - easy for check in
• Takes weight off your arm and with carabiners can be used to attach other bags like a train
• Excellent color options
• Main zipper isn't designed for a lock
• External pockets extend inward not outward
• Not much padding around clubs

Golf Travel Bags Caravan 3.0

Super value for money very under budget

Excellent external pockets and riveted handles make the Caravan 3.0 extremely high value. There is little difference between this bag and the Constrictor 2. The weight is similar and the setup is almost identical.

There's plenty of space inside to pack everything you could need on your golf trip. The two pockets on the exterior easily fit one pair of golf shoes each. While this bag isn't going to last forever like an SKB or Club Glove, it's a great budget option if you don't travel extensively with your clubs.

Bag Boy Back Bone

This little stick will prevent the force from a golf bag being thrown around from impacting your club heads. It keeps the top of the bag firm and stops crushing forces pushing down on the driver and longer clubs. This will prevent snapped shafts in soft cover travel bags.

Key features of a golf travel bag

Lightweight is best because of baggage weight restriction.

This is very important because some airlines restrict the weight of sports equipment. Do you travel low-cost or full-service most of the time? Check airline rules - generally 50 lbs total is about the norm for sports equipment.

Depending on how frequently you travel, it’s important to get one that is relatively easy to transport back and forth. If you’re older or have some back issues, I recommend getting a lighter, soft shell bag to ensure it’s easy to get them in and out of the trunk.

No need to suffer a pointless injury on the way to your golf vacation. Plus, weight is a big factor for how much it costs to shipping your golf gear as well. Depending on the airline, if you go over a certain limit you’ll have to pay even more money each way.  

Also, it’s important to note unlike bags, these do not come with a shoulder strap and you’ll always have to push or pull it. 

High quality wheels makes transport easy

The wheels make moving the bag around so much easier than carrying so I've featured only wheeled bags here.

I struggled for too long with a carry travel bag.

Some bags have spinner wheels to change direction easily but most will only have two and you have to hold the handle at the top of the bag as you wheels it around. This can be cumbersome to change direction but if the airports are not too crowed, you'll be okay.

Side pockets  can contain more gear

You need pockets for accessories, clothes and golf shoes. On the trips where weather may be variable and you need a lot of layers or jackets, it's always better to have too much storage than too little. 

You want to know how much space is inside the bag as well.

Outside the bag, the soft cover cases are better as they have zippable pockets whereas the hard cover have none. 

Hard shell or soft cover bags need different storage space

Hard cases will be heavier and more difficult to store in a small space when you're not using them.

A soft cover bag can be folded up and placed in a cupboard.

The hard case offers superior protection to your shafts and clubheads while the soft cover will need a stiffener like a bag boy stick or a lot of extra padding made up of golf shoes, towels, clothes and headcovers.

I use a hybrid bag which has a soft cover around the bottom of the golf bag but a hard cover on top just around the clubs. 

Warranties are important for protection

Double check the warranties of the companies who make the bags. Some of them extend for a year or two and you might even find some that cover the damage to clubs, as well as even damage to clubs inflicted upon your bag by the airlines!

Approve locks and padlocks make TSA inspections easy

TSA will check certain bags and some do come with TSA locks otherwise purchase a TSA-approved lock from Master.

High price high quality

Like anything in golf, you get what you pay for.

When it comes to a golf travel bag, I like to get the best travel bag for my golf bag that I can.

I do not have much storage space at home so I prefer not to go with an entirely hard case. I like to fold it up and place it in the closet. That led me to the case which has a hard top and a soft bottom but with a lot of external storage because I go for longer trips and I like to squeeze in extra jackets and socks.

I got the most expensive one I could afford and I have not experienced a single breakage.

How I pack my golf clubs for travel safely

This is by no means pretty, but it is effective. If you don't want to buy a travel bag or you want a soft cover travel bag, you can do this.

• Clip on your rain cover and unzip to let it hang loose. It's easier to do the final step if you put the cover on now.
• Unscrew the driver head from the shaft and put the shaft into the bag with the clubs. If your driver doesn't unscrew, go to the next step.
• Put your woods and hybrids upside down into the bag. Be sure to put some old socks on the heads to prevent scratches.
• Bunch the shafts that are sticking out the top together and put your umbrella in the bag to act as a splint for more support.
• Turn your irons in so the toes are all facing your woods' shafts and bunch them all together and wrap a towel (or two) around the whole set.
• Once the towels are tightly wrapped around the club heads, zip up the club cover.
• Put the driver head and wrench into a jacket and place it in a secure pocket.
• Use cellophane wrap and masking tape to wrap it all up for a budget version of the airport service

The best travel bags are expensive and they're expensive because they last.

An SKB hard case will serve any golfer well and for the price, there is little reason to get a soft cover travel bag for airlines.

If a hard cover bag is not ideal and storage becomes a pain in the butt, the high-priced Club Glove is virtually indestructible and protects your golf clubs amazingly.

For those who don't like lugging a golf travel bag around by a flimsy handle, the Sun Mountain makes travel easy.

These three are the best golf travel bags for airlines hands down.

Last Updated on January 16, 2024 by Matt Greene

Home » New Golf Equipment Reviews » Golf Accessories Reviews » How To Pack a Golf Travel Bag — (Packing Tips From Our Instructors)

How To Pack a Golf Travel Bag — (Packing Tips From Our Instructors)

When traveling with your golf gear you have a few options to keep your clubs safe from the rigors of airline baggage mishaps or even just the overloading of hard suitcases against your golf clubs in the trunk of a car. 

You can choose a soft or hard case to keep your clubs protected from damage, but there is a better choice and that is a golf travel bag. This style of bag not only has the soft or hard case to protect your clubs, but also comes with extra compartments where you can pack your golf gear as well. At TellMeMoreGolf, we recommend using a golf travel bag as the extra space always comes in handy when it’s time to pack your gear for traveling.

If you find yourself planning a vacation, it’s a great idea to bring your golf equipment with you to try out some new courses , and if you decide to do so it’s crucial to know how to pack your clubs and golf gear effectively and safely. In this article, we will go over how to organize a golf travel bag properly and also give you some valuable golf travel tips.

Packing Clothes In A Golf Travel Bag – Packing Tips

When packing for a golf trip, there are a few things to remember for a smooth and easy journey . How to exactly pack a golf travel bag is hard to say as every bag is different, but now we’ll go over some general packing tips. 

• Check Out the Weather Forecast

Always remember to check the weather forecast before packing, as a rainy golf trip will call for some extra clothes. Not only are more pairs of clothes needed, but also an umbrella, water-resistant jacket, etc. If the rain decides to creep up, getting caught off guard and only having khakis and a few light polos is not fun . 

• Make Use of The Extra Space

Golf travel cases have extra space where you can place clothes and other necessities.

This is great as you’ll often not have to bring an extra suitcase, which is a cause for discomfort and sometimes extra cost at the airline counters .

Almost all golf travel bags have one or two empty compartments for packing clothing on the outside of the bag , but also look for extra compartments on the inside where you can also pack clothing, shoes, extra golf balls and other necessities.  

There is usually extra space between the golf clubs where a rolled-up shirt fits perfectly. Doing this will reduce clanking among the club heads and minimize the risk of clubs being scratched while also creating more space for other belongings. 

• Pack Lightly

Although it’s nice to bring your entire wardrobe when traveling, you only have so much room, and airlines only allow so much weight without charging extra baggage fees . A golf bag with a complete set of golf clubs weighs about 25-30 pounds, and airlines’ max weight per checked-in bag is usually 50 pounds.

Plan and pack the essentials for your trip. It’s not fun to drag around a heavy bag when traveling. Weight can be saved by packing clothes that can be worn on and off course. Another way to save space is to wear your golf shirt to dinner the night before the round, meaning that you only have to wear one shirt a day, while always having a fresh one for dinner.

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Travel Bags to Check-Out

• Ogio Creature 2 Travel Bag
• Club Glove Last Bag Collegiate Travel Cover
• TourTrek TC-Flex Travel Cover

What Is a Stiff Arm Used For?

When traveling with golf clubs we want to pack them with the worst case scenario in mind.

Nothing worse than being excited to play our first round on vacation only to find that one or more of our clubs has been damaged in transit.

Whether the bag is sliding down the baggage carousel and smashing into a metal wall, or the bag folds when carrying , there is always the risk of the clubs breaking.

One way to significantly lower the risk of clubs breaking is using a stiff arm . The stiff arm is a telescopic pole that is longer than the length of your driver. As the stiff arm’s head is the only thing that makes contact vertically, the risk of smashing your clubs into something reduces greatly.

Another plus is that it keeps the bag upright at all times and makes it unable to fold , which can otherwise be a cause for damage. With the stiff arm, wheeling your bag through the airport becomes far more enjoyable, as you won’t have to worry about your precious clubs breaking.

FAQ Section

Can you put clothes in a golf travel bag.

Travel bags are made to make traveling with golf clubs easy while also having the space for clothes. Depending on what type of travel bag you have, there will be different packing solutions.

If your travel bag has standard pockets, you can fold your clothes like usual and place them like in any other bag. If you’re short on space, clothes can also be rolled up and put in the bag among the clubs or in the pockets. Just remember to place them somewhere they won’t get dirty. 

What is the allowed weight limit of a golf travel bag for most airlines?

The weight limit for most airlines is 50 lbs and airlines have a specific charge for golf travel bags up to that limit. Anything that weighs more than 50 pounds will incur an extra charge. We suggest you contact your airline before travel to check on their pricing schedule.

Conclusion: Research by Tellmemoregolf.com

It’s always fun to try out new golf courses, and an excellent way to do so is by traveling. But if you’re not careful and use the proper golf travel bag, there’s a risk of damaging your clubs.

That’s why an adequate travel bag combined with a stiff arm is a great way to travel safely with your golf clubs. It’s also a way to add more storage for clothing and the things we need to travel with. Thank you for reading this article from TellMeMoreGolf.com , and we wish you a happy and safe golf vacation!

Patrick Corley

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TellMeMoreGolf.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

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Flying With Golf Clubs on American Airlines in 2024

• Flying With Golf Clubs on…

*this article has been fact checked for updated information in 2024 by Michelle Magerat

Of course your local course is great but sometimes the desire to try out a new course on a golfing break requires extensive travel. This may lead you to the gruesome airport with its myriad of rules and regulations on baggage.

Key Takeaway You can bring your golf clubs as checked baggage in American Airlines with this limitation: up to 126 linear inches in size and up to 50 lbs in weight . You can go up to 70 lbs by paying $100-$200. American Airlines charges $30 for the first checked baggage and $40 for the second bag.

We will cover more about golf bag limitations, what you can bring in your golf travel bag, oversize/overweight policies, and more below.

Table of Contents

Baggage Policy About Golf Clubs on American Airlines

Here are some key points referring to the baggage policy pertaining to golf clubs on American Airlines:

• Only one bag per passenger can be a golf bag.
• Smaller items such as tees and balls can be carried in cabin luggage but clubs may not.
• The maximum weight for a bag containing golf equipment is 70 pounds (32kg).

What constitutes golf luggage on American Airlines?

American Airlines has a comprehensive list of sports equipment that you can take on one of their flights. Under their jurisdiction for golf bags, you can take the following pieces of equipment: golf clubs, golf balls, golf tees, and a pair of golf shoes . While American Airlines doesn’t stipulate how many clubs you can take on their policy webpage, you’ve got to be realistic. They’re heavy and you’ve only got 70 lbs. If you’re not going to use that two-way chipper on your trip, don’t take it!

If you bring other equipment, be sure to check the American Airlines sports equipment policy .

Can I take my golf equipment instead of my luggage?

In theory, yes! American Airlines doesn’t discriminate on what you take. When you book your flight it’s common to reserve checked baggage at the same time. Most people use this as their primary bag to pack clothes and other essentials. Instead, avid golfers could use this entitlement to take their golf equipment.

As long as it doesn’t impede the checked-bag weight allowance, then you’re free to do so. If you’re traveling with others, you could always get them to pack a few of your clothes! Or just buy new ones when you get to your destination!

Here’s our summary of American Airlines baggage policy . Check it out if you need to arrange other luggage for the flight. If you’re a member of the US military, you’re eligible for discounts in both checked bags and fares .

Oversized or overweight: what’s the difference?

Being oversized means your bag’s dimension is more than the allowed one. Bags must be in keeping with 126 linear inches (320 cm) (length + width + height). This is a very generous limit from American Airlines compared to the other airlines. As most good golf travel bags are sized at 80 linear inches , you’ll have no problem with their oversize policy .

Being overweight means that your bag weighs above the weight allowance of 50 lbs. You can get up to 70 lbs by paying a specific fee but no more than that. Overweight fee is covered below.

Before we continue, if you’re looking for a golf bag that offers excellent protection for your clubs during transit, do visit our top recommendations of the best golf travel bags .

How much does American Airlines charge for a checked golf bag?

American Airlines currently charges $100-$200 for golf bags weighing between 51-70 lbs (23-32kg) as it falls under their sports equipment fee. Note that 51-70 lbs is considered overweight by their checked baggage standards.

The lower end is if you’re flying within the US and the upper end is fi you’re flying to and from Cuba.

However, if you can fit your essential clubs in a bag lower than 50 lbs within the checked-bag dimensions (126 linear inches) you can simply pay for the checked baggage fee , usually $30 for your first bag and then $40 for a secondary bag . Remember, however, that if it doesn’t meet the specifications you could end up paying more.

If you plan to bring a golf bag weighing more than 50 lbs, consider Delta as they charge $100 for golf bags between 51-70 lbs and you can even go beyond 70 lbs. For more details check out our article about Delta golf clubs policy .

Can I just take my clubs with me on the plane?

Taking your golf clubs on the plane with you isn’t an option. The governing body for such issues, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) details that clubs are not allowed in any carry-on bag. This law is definitive and even if you try to claim it’s an antique and should be ruled as such, a golf club will never be allowed in a carry-on.

However, non-club apparatus like balls and tees can be brought onto the plane in a carry-on.

Should I just ship my golf clubs instead?

As a rule, shipping your golf clubs work out more expensive than flying with them yourself. However, a lot of the pitfalls are eliminated. It’s their profession to ship them, so they’ll get the specifications right every time. Ship Sticks works with several logistics companies and typically offers the best rates across America, starting at $49.

Do I need to pack my clubs in a bag?

Yes! Golf clubs are prohibited from traveling on planes as a singular item on US flights. In fact, you’d be hard-pushed to find any flight you’d be able to take without a bag. This is in keeping with the policy that it needs to be contained and kept within the hold.

How to pack golf clubs when flying?

Essentially when you’re putting your clubs in a bag to fly, you want to minimize the amount of movement within the bag. The plane is moving very fast and there’s little way to track just how much the bag will move while in the hold. What you want to avoid is the metal clonking about, potentially damaging the clubs both superficially and lessening the performance. Stuffing the bag with towels or other soft materials will ensure that there’s less movement. Furthermore, if you have head covers be sure to use them. If you have neither, even bubble wrap will do the job to stop adverse rubbing.

If your golf travel bag has room to spare, you might consider to bring personal items such as razor or travel adapter. This is fine, just remember not to stuff something that might damage your clubs in a shaky flight or irresponsible baggage handling.

More about this is covered in how to pack golf clubs for a flight .

Tips on flying with golf clubs

Use non-stop flight.

Traveling on a non-stop flight and/or flying with the same carrier on all legs of your journey will ensure you have less aggravation by chopping and changing at the airport, as well as not worrying about meeting different specifications.

Be sure that your bag can be easily identified

If you have a popular brand of golf bag, the last thing you want is to pick up the wrong bag or have someone else walk off with your life savings in golf clubs. A bright nametag with bold lettering should work as a treat.

Take extra measures to protect your clubs

If you’re using a soft-side bag, consider using a stiff arm to protect your clubs. Or, invest in a premium bag that has one built into it. Further to this, you should ensure that your bag is of good overall quality and sturdy enough to withstand the journey.

Find more detailed tips about this in our dedicated articles about flying with golf clubs .

Hopefully, by now you’ll be set for your next golfing adventure and have all the knowledge to pack your bag. Don’t forget to book your AA flight at one of the best flight booking sites to get the best deal.

Related Articles:

• United Airlines Golf Clubs Policy: 3 Points To be Aware of
• Delta Airlines Golf Clubs Policy: 5 Points You Need to Know
• How to Travel with Golf Clubs – 14 Tips to Keep Them Safe
• 12 Best Golf Travel Bag: SunMountain, Athletico, & More
• Southwest Airlines Golf Clubs policy

Author:  Graham Johnson

Graham has spent several years living across the rich and varied cities of Japan. If he’s not struggling with chopsticks (seriously!) he’s often writing up his best experiences across the country from trying new foods, climbing mountain ranges and following sports teams across the country

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The Best Way To Travel With Golf Clubs (2024)

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you.

Golf trips hold a special kind of excitement !

You envision the courses, perfect tee shots, and maybe even a celebratory drink at the clubhouse.

But amidst that anticipation, a nagging worry can creep in – what about your golf clubs ?

Lugging your prized possessions through airports and onto planes can be a recipe for stress.

There are fears of hefty airline fees, the uncertainty of safe transport, and the dreaded possibility of damaged clubs.

This guide is here to put your mind at ease.

Let’s transform those travel worries into smooth sailing.

In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to transport your clubs safely, understand airline policies, and ensure your golf vacation gets off on the right foot—without any club-related casualties.

Let’s get into it.

Table of Contents

The Travel Bag Essentials

Your golf travel bag is the first line of defense for your beloved clubs.

Think of it as their armored transport in the unpredictable world of travel. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

Hard Case vs. Soft Case

Hard travel cases offer maximum protection but can be bulky and less convenient…

Whereas Soft travel cases are more maneuverable and often have additional storage for shoes and apparel. Consider your travel style and prioritize protection or convenience.

Protect Your Clubs, Enjoy Your Trip

Worried about forgetting something important? Use our golf trip packing list to ensure you don’t leave any essentials behind!

The Power of Padding

Look for travel bags with substantial internal padding, especially around the top where club heads are most vulnerable.

Invest in Durability

Cheap travel bags may save some money initially, but torn seams and broken zippers are a recipe for disaster.

Choose a bag built to last through the rigors of travel.

Protection is Key: The Stiff Arm

Don’t underestimate the power of the Stiff Arm (or similar support rod).

This simple device adds crucial vertical support to your travel bag, preventing your clubs from crushing under the weight of other luggage.

Consider it a non-negotiable investment in your clubs’ safety.

Smart Packing for Added Security

Even with a great travel bag , take extra precautions.

Wrap clothes or towels around your club heads for an extra layer of cushioning.

This not only adds protection but also prevents clubs from rattling around, minimizing potential scratches and damage.

Understanding Airline Policies

Airline policies regarding golf clubs can be a bit of a maze. Avoid any surprises at the check-in counter with a simple rule: know before you go!

Do Your Homework

Don’t skip the fine print on your airline’s website. Read their baggage policies thoroughly.

This will outline specific rules for golf clubs, potential additional fees, and weight restrictions.

For Example, here is Delta Airlines policy on golf bags:

One checked golf bag should easily hold:

• Your golf bag
• Your set of golf clubs
• Golf balls and tees
• A pair of golf shoes

It’s also important to note that some airlines may require you to sign a release that they are not held responsible for any damages incurred.

Weight Matters

Most airlines consider golf bags as standard checked baggage, so your bag will likely need to be under the standard weight limit (usually around 50 lbs).

Overweight baggage fees can be steep, so a quick weigh-in at home can save you money and headaches.

Carry-On Considerations

Some airlines may treat smaller golf travel bags as carry-on luggage, but don’t assume this is the norm.

Always double-check your airline’s specific policies beforehand to avoid potential issues at the gate.

Remember, a quick check with your airline can make all the difference in a smooth golf travel experience!

How To Pack Like a Pro

Packing your golf bag for travel isn’t just about stuffing things in. A few strategic techniques will safeguard those precious clubs and give you peace of mind.

Detachable Heads – Your Protection Plan

If you have adjustable woods (drivers, fairway woods, etc.), remove the heads and pack them separately.

Wrap them in a headcover or towel for extra padding and place them nestled amongst your clothes.

This significantly reduces the risk of damage in transit.

The Power of Towels – A Versatile Shield

Towels are your secret weapon in travel-proofing your clubs. Firstly, use them to cushion club heads like we discussed earlier.

But don’t stop there!

Turn your irons inward so they face each other, and weave a towel through the shafts.

This helps to immobilize them within the bag, reducing jostling and preventing potential scratches.

Iron Organization – Think Inside Out

Turning the heads of your irons inwards isn’t just for cushioning.

It also positions the less vulnerable backsides of the clubs outwards, where most contact with the bag will occur.

It’s a subtle shift that makes a difference in protection over time.

Never Forget Your Essentials Again

Worried about forgetting something important? Use our golf trip packing checklist to ensure you don’t leave any essentials behind!

Some Additional Golf Travel Tips

Let’s wrap up with a few extra golf trip travel tips to streamline your golf travel experience:

Clean & Inspect

Give your clubs a quick cleaning before packing them up.

This makes it easier to spot any damage immediately upon arrival, simplifying any potential claims processes with the airline.

Label Clearly

A detailed luggage tag is your friend, especially as golf bags can sometimes look similar.

Include your name, address, phone number, and even your destination golf course or hotel to ensure your bag finds its way to you in case it gets lost.

Consider Shipping

For ultimate convenience, consider shipping your clubs ahead of time with a service like Ship Sticks .

They handle all the logistics, often provide insurance, and may even offer door-to-door service, leaving you luggage-free at the airport.

Insurance Options

While a good travel bag and careful packing go a long way, accidents can happen.

Look into travel insurance options or check if your existing policies might cover your clubs in case of loss or damage. This adds an extra layer of protection for peace of mind.

Arrival and Beyond

You’ve made it to your destination, now let’s ensure your clubs are ready for the course and that your golf travel gear is set for future trips.

Inspect Upon Arrival

Don’t let the excitement of the moment distract you.

As soon as you retrieve your golf bag, give your clubs a thorough inspection.

Look for any dents, cracks, or other signs of damage.

If you find anything, document it with photos and immediately report it to the airline.

Proper Storage

Protect your investment! When you’re back home, store your travel bag in a dry, cool place.

Avoid extreme temperatures or dampness that could affect the integrity of the bag’s materials.

Rental Considerations

Sometimes life throws curveballs. If your trip is short or circumstances are unexpected, remember that renting clubs at your destination is always an option.

Many golf courses have quality rental clubs available, saving you the hassle of transporting your own.

Traveling with golf clubs doesn’t have to equal stress . With the right preparation and knowledge, you can ensure your beloved clubs arrive ready to play.

Remember the key takeaways:

• Invest in a good travel bag or hard shell case
• Understand airline policies
• Follow our golf vacation checklist to pack like a pro
• Explore convenient shipping options

Now that you’re armed with this guide, it’s time to shift your focus from travel worries to planning those epic tee shots.

Happy golfing adventures!

Frequently Asked Questions

A: While not strictly mandatory, a dedicated golf travel bag (either hard case or padded soft case) is highly recommended for the best protection.

A: Policies vary between airlines. Some may allow smaller golf bags as carry-on, but always verify with your specific airline before heading to the airport.

A: No, fees can vary between airlines. It’s crucial to check the baggage policies of your chosen airline in advance to avoid surprises.

A: Pack this extra carefully! Wrap the club head especially well in towels or clothing, and consider using a Stiff Arm in your bag for added protection.

A: Inspect them immediately upon arrival and document any damage with photos. Report the damage promptly to the airline. Travel insurance might also cover damaged clubs.

Hi, I'm Lee! And I've been playing golf both casually and competitively for over 15 years and I just can't get enough of it. I truly love golf, from those crisp early rounds in the morning sun, to the wind blasted twilight rounds where you're trying to finish before it's dark. In my spare time I enjoy discovering the best golf destinations around the world and am obsessed with the latest in golf technology. I'm always trying out new golf gadgets and gear to get the absolute best out of my golf game.

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5 Best Golf Travel Bags (2024 Buying Guide)

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Using a golf travel bag is the best way to protect your golf clubs when you travel. However, with so many out there, how are you supposed to choose the right bag? There are several great options to choose from, depending on your preferences and budget.

The best golf travel bag is the [amazon link=”B07P5D4N2M” title=”Himal Outdoors Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag” /], which has wheels for easy transport and a heavy-duty lining to keep your clubs safe. It’s also lightweight, so you don’t have to worry about exceeding any airline weight limits even if you’re flying. 

However, there are some good alternatives to the Himal travel bag, depending on what you’re looking for, such as the best golf bags :

• If you often fly with your golf clubs, consider the [amazon link=”B0B9BYD5P2″ title=”GoHimal Golf Travel Bag with Adjustable Support Rod” /].
• If you want a golf travel bag that’s hard-sided for extra protection, your best option is the [amazon link=”B003UFRKX2″ title=”Samsonite Hard Side Golf Bag” /].
• If you’re shopping on a budget for a golf travel bag, check out the [amazon link=”B09KV514GJ” title=”DAREKUKU Golf Travel Covers for Airlines” /].
• For a waterproof golf bag, you should consider the[amazon link=”B09KKMMX68″ title=”APTY Padded Golf Club Travel Bag” /]

[amazon box=”B0B9BYD5P2,B003UFRKX2,B09KKMMX68″ grid=”3″]

The rest of this article will discuss the best golf clubs bag for travel. No matter what type of travel you plan to do, or how much you want to spend on a golf travel bag, you’ll find one below to suit your needs.

Don’t miss the part at the end where I cover essential information that will help you consider the most important features and factors when picking out a golf travel bag.

Best Overall Golf Travel Bag: Himal Outdoors Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag with Wheels

[amazon box = “B07P5D4N2M” template=”horizontal” description_items=”3″]

The [amazon link=”B07P5D4N2M” title=”Himal Outdoors Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag with Wheels” /] is the best overall travel golf bag. Even though it has wheels, it’s only 4.4 pounds (2 kg), so you won’t have any trouble carrying it around and lifting it when necessary. 

The wheels are a huge help when taking your clubs to and from the airport. And, even when you aren’t flying around with your clubs, the wheels make it easier to bring them around when you have other luggage with you.

Additionally, when you need to move the bag in and out of your car, there are strong, heavy-duty handles that make it easy. 

The travel bag is made to fit any size and type of golf club and bag, and it has several pockets for items you might need to take on your travels. 

The bag is lined with plenty of padding, so even when your clubs are on the move, they’ll stay safe and secure. This is especially true because the bag includes a strap on the inside that you can use to keep your golf clubs in place, even if the bag is slightly too big for them. 

Bottom Line : If you want a reasonably priced bag with wheels for easy transportation, the Himal bag will suit you perfectly. Even though it’s soft-sided, the heavy-duty material will protect your clubs. 

• Heavy duty material
• Lightweight
• It may be too big for kids or women’s clubs

Best Golf Travel Bags for Airlines: GoHimal Golf Travel Bag with Adjustable Support Rod

[amazon box = “B0B9BYD5P2″ template=”horizontal” description_items=”3″]

Are you someone who always flies to play golf, and you need something to protect your golf clubs on an airplane? The [amazon link=”B0B9BYD5P2″ title=”GoHimal Golf Travel Bag with Adjustable Support Rod” /] is the best golf travel bag to use on an airplane.

This golf bag is made from a high-quality, durable material that won’t rip or get damaged, even on the longest flights. It’s also waterproof, so you can take it outside in any weather, and you don’t have to worry about any spills on the plane damaging your golf clubs. 

This case will fit any golf club no matter how big your bag is or how long your golf clubs are. The large front pocket is perfect for your shoes or other golf items you need to travel with, which is very convenient for people who don’t want to have to carry around multiple bags when they’re traveling.

Additionally, there’s a support rod that keeps your clubs protected when they’re in the bag. You can adjust this rod to be anywhere between 20-51 in (50.8-129.5 cm) for easy storage and maximum protection.

However, the bag weighs 8.6 pounds (3.94 kilograms), which is heavier than many travel golf bags. But, as long as your golf bag with clubs and accessories doesn’t weigh more than 40 pounds (18 kilograms), you won’t have any problems meeting the weight limits for flying.

Bottom Line : If you’re a frequent flier with your golf clubs, this bag has a support rod and heavy-duty siding to keep your clubs from getting damaged on the plane. It also has wheels, so you can easily pull your bag around the airport instead of carrying it. 

• Support rod
• Heavy at 8.6 pounds (3.94 kg)

Best Hard Case Golf Travel Bag: Samsonite Hard Side Golf Bag

[amazon box = “B003UFRKX2″ template=”horizontal” description_items=”3″]

Soft-sided travel golf bags work well, but hard-sided travel bags give you even more protection for your golf clubs. The best hard-case golf travel bag is the [amazon link=”B003UFRKX2″ title=”Samsonite Hard Side Golf Bag” /]. 

The Samsonite bag is only 5 pounds (2.3 kg), which is lightweight considering its heavy-duty siding and its wheels. There are four wheels on this bag, so you can transport it very easily. You can use the two in-line skate wheels to push or pull it, or you can use all four wheels and move the bag in any direction you wish. 

This golf travel bag comes in a wide range of colors (including the standard black design).

Even though the hard outside of the bag will protect your bag, there’s additional protection on the inside–including a padded quilted foam lining that’s even thicker on the top of the bag for more protection for your club heads. 

Bottom Line : This Samsonite hard-sided case is the best option to protect your golf clubs while traveling, but you’ll have to pay a little more for the protection. The wheels make it easy for you to transport it, and if you’re not worried about a heavier bag, you can fly with this easily on any airline. 

• Four multi-directional wheels
• Padding on the inside
• Multiple colors
• Pricier than soft-sided 
• Five pounds (2.3 kg)

Best Budget Golf Travel Bag: DAREKUKU Golf Travel Covers for Airlines

[amazon box = “B09KV514GJ” template=”horizontal” description_items=”3″]

Golf travel bags can seem expensive, but you don’t have to pay much for a good quality bag. The [amazon link=”B09KV514GJ” title=”DAREKUKU Golf Travel Covers for Airlines” /] is the best budget travel bag to keep your golf clubs safe without breaking the bank. 

This bag is easy to carry around no matter how big or heavy your golf clubs are, thanks to the adjustable shoulder strap and the carrying handles. And, even if you need to transport it along far distances, there are wheels that make it easy to pull the bag along by using the handles. 

This DAREKUKU bag includes a card pocket so everyone, including airlines, knows the bag is yours.

You can also store other golf items (such as shoes) in the bag’s front pocket. If you’re having issues with the bag or it’s not exactly what you expect, you can return it with no questions asked.

However, you shouldn’t have to return this bag since it’s made with high-quality material. 

The best part of this bag is that it folds up thanks to its soft material. So when you’re not traveling, you don’t have to worry about the bag taking up too much space in your home. 

Bottom Line : If you need something cheap to protect your golf clubs, the DAREKUKU cover is your best option. It has wheels that make it easy to transport, and the cover is airline-friendly. 

• Shoulder straps and handles
• Rip after a lot of wear and tear
• Club heads not protected

Best Waterproof Golf Travel Bag: APTY Padded Golf Club Travel Bag

[amazon box = “B09KKMMX68″ template=”horizontal” description_items=”3″]

Finally, if you’re looking for a waterproof travel golf bag, the [amazon link=”B09KKMMX68″ title=”APTY Padded Golf Club Travel Bag” /] is the best option.

A waterproof golf bag is beneficial if you’re going to be traveling or golfing in all sorts of weather, or if you just want extra protection from anything that could go wrong during your travels. 

The bag is easy to carry around thanks to its heavy-duty handles, and the wheels on the bottom make it easy to carry long distances, even with heavy clubs. There’s a lot of space in the bag to put in extra clubs or other accessories, including two pockets on the side. 

When you’re not storing or transporting your golf clubs in the bag, you can fold up the bag so it doesn’t take up a lot of space.

However, the soft-sided bag may not provide as much protection as you want. There’s padding on the inside of the bag, with extra padding at the top to protect your bag and your club heads. 

Bottom Line : This waterproof bag is the best way to keep your bag dry, whether you’re outside or just want to keep your clubs dry from any spills. The bag folds up for easy storage, and it’s easy to transport thanks to the wheels. 

• High-quality fabric
• Foldable for easy storage
• Not made for long-term use

How To Choose a Golf Travel Bag

Now that you know all the great golf travel bags you can choose from to keep your clubs safe, you might need some help choosing one. The golf bag you ultimately select should depend on your personal preferences and feature requirements. 

Consider the Material of Your Travel Bag

If you’re flying with your golf clubs a lot, you should consider a hard-sided bag, as it will provide your clubs with the most protection.

If you’re not flying with your bags and are mostly taking them on road trips or just want some added protection for when you store them, a soft-sided travel bag will be fine.

Decide on a Budget for Your Travel Bag

Next, you must decide how much you want to spend on your travel golf bag. If you’re on a budget or you’re not planning on using the bag too much, you can get a budget bag and save some money. 

However, if you plan on traveling with your golf clubs often, or prefer a high-quality bag, go with a more expensive, luxury option. You’ll want a bag that will withstand the wear and tear of using it often, especially if you’ll be flying with the bag. 

Consider Choosing a Travel Bag With Wheels

Finally, you need to decide if you want a bag with wheels. Travel golf bags with wheels tend to be more expensive than those without, but they’ll make it significantly easier for you to transport your clubs around.

Just remember that wheels will also make your bag heavier if you’re flying, which can cause you to exceed the weight limit some airlines allow for baggage. 

While having wheels on a travel golf bag is an excellent addition for many people, it might not be necessary for you. This is especially true if you don’t plan on having very many golf clubs that will weigh your bag down, or if you just prefer to carry the bag the old-fashioned way.

Either way, determining whether or not wheels are necessary for you is an essential factor when picking out a travel golf bag.

Recap: Best Golf Travel Bags in 2024

You need a golf travel bag to keep your golf clubs safe when you travel. No matter how you travel, the [amazon link=”B07P5D4N2M” title=”Himal Outdoors Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag” /] is the best option for your clubs. 

However, if you’re looking for other features, like a bag specifically for airlines and air travel, or a hard-sided golf travel bag, there are plenty of great options that I listed above for your convenience.

The right decision depends on your budget, how you’re going to travel, and how much you need to protect your golf clubs.

Meet Kolter, the dedicated golfer driving Honest Golfers forward. His golfing journey started at the young age of 8, guiding him through youth tours, high school, and college golf. With a remarkable stint as a two-time Team Captain at Carroll College, Helena, MT, and participation as a two-time World Long Drive regional qualifier, Kolter's expertise runs deep. Now, he shares his lifelong passion and knowledge, offering sincere advice and gear recommendations to fellow enthusiasts. Embark on a golfing adventure with him, and together, let's enhance our skills on the fairways.

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The Ultimate Guide to Golf Baggage Fees Ranked by Airline

Never get caught with excess baggage fees when travelling with your golf clubs again! Here’s the ultimate guide to golf baggage fees to help you through what you can and can’t take!

Written by: Golf Travel Caddie

Published on: April 24, 2023

How to avoid excess golf baggage fees.

Are you a golfer who travels frequently with your clubs? 

If so, you’ll be familiar with the added costs of checking your golf bags on flights. 

Golf baggage fees and rules can vary significantly among airlines, and it’s pretty much impossible to keep track of all the different policies. 

In this article, we take a closer look at the golf baggage fees of major airlines and provide tips on how to save money when travelling with your clubs. 

Whether you’re a seasoned golf travel pro or are planning your first trip, this guide will help you navigate the often-confusing world of airline baggage fees for golfers.

These policies are changing all the time, and we will be adding new airlines all the time, so check back before you next trip to get the latest up-to-date info. ⛳️ ✈️ 🧳

What’s in this guide

• What are golf baggage charges
• The minefield of golf bag charges
• Policies & charges for each of the major airlines

Our top tips for travelling with your golf clubs

• FAQ’s about….

What are golf baggage charges?

Most airlines charge a fee for checking golf bags and other equipment in a similar way to how they treat ski gear.  

Golf bags whether in a specialist golf travel bag or not (and we’d recommend you use one like this), are considered oversized or overweight baggage. This means you may need to pay an additional fee to check-in your clubs.

These fees can vary depending on the airline, the route,the type of ticket and class of travel.

Because each airline had it’s own policy it’s not easy to work out what you may be charged before you book your ticket.  For example a golfing buddy booked a trip to France with a budget airline and paid just £135 for his flight but then had an additional £400 in baggage charges at the airport!

So we thought we’d try and pull together a golf bagage charge comparison table for the top 18 major airlines for golfers. 

Please be aware this should be used as a guide only as policies and charges are changing all the time and there are multiple variables to consider.

However, we think this should provide a good one-stop shop for you to avoid any major baggage fee charges at the airport and be able to roughly calculate any additional costs!

Golf Baggage Fees Ranked by Airline

Major long-haul carriers for golfers.

Do American Airlines accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

Golf equipment is considered a standard checked baggage item.

There is a charge for all checked baggage.

What are the size restrictions on golf baggage with American Airlines?

Size is limited to the size of a hard-sided golf case

What is the weight limit on American for golf baggage?

The maximum weight allowance for your golf equipment is 23kg

You can travel with an weight of 70kg but an overweight baggage charge of $100 will apply.

American Airlines Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

1 golf bag containing a maximum of 14 golf clubs, 12 golf balls and 1 pair of golf shoes is permitted – free of charge.

Does Air Canada accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

Golf equipment can be accepted as part of your overall baggage allowance. But some restrictions apply.

What are the size and weight restrictions on golf baggage with Air Canada?

Your golf bag must weigh less than 23 kg (50 lb). You can take one golf bag containing approximately 14 clubs, 12 golf balls and one pair of golf shoes as one piece of baggage. This will count towards the maximum number of checked bags allowed by your fare type.

Golf bags may contain more clubs and balls; however, overweight fees will apply if the weight of the bag is over 23 kg (50 lb)

Air Canada Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

You can register your golf equipment at least 24 hours before your flight by contacting Air Canada Reservations , Air Canada Vacations or your travel agent.

Please note that registering golf gear in advance of travel doesn’t guarantee that it will be accepted on your flight(s). 

Even if you do pre-register you’ll need to reconfirm with an airport agent when you check-in.

British Airways

Are golf bags accepted as part of the personal baggage allowance?

Golf equipment, packed in a protective golf bag or hard case, will count as one item of your checked baggage. Contents may include items such as a set of golf clubs, a golf umbrella, a dozen balls, golf tees and a pair of golf shoes. If you carry your golf umbrella, or a parasol, separately, it will count as an extra item of checked baggage and you may have to pay if you are over your free.

What are the size restrictions on golf baggage?

190cm (height), 75cm (width), 65cm (depth)

What is the weight limit on golf baggage ?

British Airways’ 23kg baggage weight limit applies to each bag and can’t be split between multiple bags.   Bags over 32kg won’t be accepted as checked baggage.

Fees & Additional Information

If the golf bag is in addition to your personal baggage an extra bag charge must be paid. If you pay in advance online the charges are between £20 – £120 depending on destination and number of additional bags.

If you check-in at the Airport the cost will increase to £65.

Delta Airlines

Does Delta accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

You may check one golf bag (per passenger) as a standard item of checked baggage, as long as equipment is contained safely and meets the size requirement. Standard baggage charges apply.

What is the weight limit on Delta Airlines for golf baggage ?

Golf bags weighing over 50 lbs. will be charged the applicable excess weight fee

If the outside linear dimensions (length + width + height) exceed 115 linear inches (292 cm), the item will not be accepted

Items in excess of baggage allowance will be subject to additional or overweight baggage fees

Delta Airlines Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

One checked golf bag can hold: One golf bag, one set of golf clubs, golf balls and tees, one pair golf shoes.

Do Emirates accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

Additional baggage that exceeds the allowance will need to be purchased.

What are the size restrictions on golf baggage with Emirates?

Bags must not exceed total dimensions of 300cm/118 inches

What is the weight limit on Emirates for golf baggage?

Your golf bag must weigh 23kg or less to avoid any excess baggage fees with Emirates.

Emirates Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

The basic allowance of  23k is for Economy class travellers.

Additional baggage allowances and size/weight restrictions vary depending on your flight departure, arrival destinationsand class of travel. 

Overweight luggage up to 32kg is charged at $75 USD.

Do Etihad accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

You can carry one set of clubs for free, weighing up to 15kg. 

This is in addition to your baggage allowance.

What is the weight limit on Etihad for golf baggage?

Your golf bags must not weigh more than 15kg to avoid excess fees.

Etihad Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

One set may consist of clubs, balls and one pair of golf shoes. 

Top Tip: If you’re carrying a golf umbrella separately, this will count as an additional item and fees may apply.

Do Finnair accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

Yes! Golf equipment may include a set of golf clubs, one golf bag and one pair of golf shoes – all these items count towards the total weight of your golf equipment.

What is the weight limit on Finnair for golf baggage?

Golf bags must not weigh more than 23kg (50lb) and doesn’t exceed 190cm (75in) in length. 

If it exceeds these measures, a heavy bag charge applies.

Finnair Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

Finnair Plus Gold and Platinum members are allowed to carry one set of golf equipment for free

Do KLM accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

If you booked a Standard or Flex ticket, you can bring a one set of golf clubs and a bag instead of an item of checked luggage without having to make a reservation

What are the size & weight restrictions on golf baggage with KLM?

300 cm (length + width + height) and up to 23 kg in Economy Class and Premium Comfort Class, or 32 kg in Business Class.

KLM Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

A golf set consists only of clubs, balls, and a pair of golf shoes.

Flying Blue Members may bring 1 golf bag, containing only your golf equipment, with a maximum weight of 23 kg on top of your standard checked baggage allowance. Make sure to bring a Flying Blue Golf voucher.

Insider Tip! if you booked a Light ticket, you’ll have to pay a fee to check in your golfing equipment.

Do Qantas accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

Golf bags and collapsible buggies are carried as checked baggage and are exempt from normal dimension restrictions on Qantas-operated services.

Qantas Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

Golf equipment can be checked in as part of your standard baggage allowance. 

Normal charges apply to any excess baggage above the weight allowance. You can add sporting equipment and/or purchase extra weight allowance online prior to your flight.

Singapore Airlines

Do Singapore Airlines accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

Sporting equipment – such as golf clubs counts towards your checked baggage allowance. If you exceed this allowance, the usual additional baggage charges will apply.

What are the size restrictions on golf baggage with Singapore Airlines?

Any item above 32kg will not be accepted as checked baggage, and these items may have to be re-packed or sent as cargo.  Get in touch with your local SIA Cargo office prior to your travel if you wish to transport any item above 32kg as cargo.

Singapore Airlines Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

If you’re travelling to or from Canada and the USA, most sporting equipment is treated as one piece of baggage. A canoe is treated as two pieces of baggage. 

Also if you’re travelling to or from Canada, your sporting equipment will be charged according to the baggage allowance that applies to your journey.

South African Airways

Do South African Airways accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

Golf equipment can be checked in but charges on sports equipment may apply on both international and domestic flights. 

If your  free baggage allowance is exceeded, standard additional baggage charges will apply

What are the size restrictions on golf baggage with South African Airways ?

Whilst rare golf equipment larger than 200 cm, will only be accepted as cargo and the relevant Cargo rates will apply.

South African Airways Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

The sporting equipment allowance is available on all SAA operated flights. However it excludes codeshare partner operated flights on SAA flight numbers so if in doubt it’s always good to check before you fly.

Do Thai Air accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

You can check in one set of golf clubs per person without being charged.

Additional golf bags will be subject to normal excess baggage charges

Thai Air Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

Excess baggage charges depend on flight zones and ticket class – f ull details can be found by clicking here.

Turkish Airlines

Do Turkish Airlines accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

Unlike a lot of airline for international flights with Turkish Airlines, the first golf set is free of charge.  

Any additional sets will be subject to normal excess baggage fees.

What is the weight limit on Turkish Airlines for golf baggage?

If you’re travelling with Turkish Airlines any golf bags must not weigh more than 23kg to avoid excess fees.

Turkish Airlines Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

A set consists of golf clubs, golf balls, a pair of golf shoes, golf tees and a golf bag.

Personal belongings should not be put in a golf bag.

United Airlines

Do United accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

One item of golf equipment per customer as a checked bag.

An item of golf equipment consists of: One golf bag containing one set of golf clubs, golf balls and one pair of golf shoes

What are the size restrictions on golf baggage with United Airlines?

Golfing bags measuring more than 62 total linear inches (158 centimeters) (length + width + height) that contain golf equipment won’t be subject to any applicable service charges for oversized checked bags.

United Airlines Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

Golf bags that don’t contain golfing equipment will be subject to any applicable service charges for oversized and overweight checked bags.

Virgin Atlantic

Do Virgin Atlantic accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

You can check in one golf bag per person for free, in addition to your checked baggage allowance.

Virgin Atlantic Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

For Economy Light the charge is £45 per bag per flight.

Prices vary depending on the class of travel.  You can take a piece of sports equipment in place of one of your bags if your ticket already includes check-in baggage allowance.

Major Domestic/Short-Haul Carriers for Golfers

Most of the long-haul carriers are pretty golf friendly when it comes to carrying golf bags. However, the short-haul airlines are a whole different beast and this is where golfers like us can really get stung on those excess baggage fees if we don’t plan in advance!

Pay close attention to this list of golf baggage fees for some of the major domestic and short-haul airlines:

Alaska Airlines (US Domestic)

Does Alaska Airlines accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

Aer Lingus limits the number of golf bags allowed per flight to a maximum of 12. Availability is subject to daily change and at peak times can be a problem for passengers – we know of groups where some have had to check their golf bags into later flights.

To avoid issues at the airport we highly recommend groups should contact the airline in advance.

What are the size & weight restrictions on golf baggage with Alaska Airlines?

Although you can check-in a golf bag and equipment up to a maximum of 23kg, charges do apply to some passengers travelling with golf bags on Aer Lingus.

The charges vary depending on the class of travel and destination.

Alaska Airlines Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

Most golf equipment that exceeds the normal checked baggage weight and dimensions flies for only $30 for the first bag.

MVP Gold 75K, MVP Gold, MVP, First Class, Club 49 and passengers who hold an Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Cardholders can check in golf bags as part of their free checked baggage allowance.

Aer Lingus (Ireland)

Does Aer Lingus accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

What are the size & weight restrictions on golf baggage with Aer Lingus?

Aer Lingus Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

For Economy class travel there is a charge of £40 per bag per flight.

For business class passengers, sports equipment is carried free of charge.

For Long Haul flights to the US, the cost increases to £75.

EasyJet (Europe)

Does EasyJet accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

Although one of the most popular European airlines for golf breaks within Europe we find EasyJet’s policy is a little confusing! Which means it can be easy to get caught out! Our best understanding of it is that one item of golf equipment can be carried in addition to your hold baggage allowance, although both will incur a charge.

What are the size & weight restrictions on golf baggage with EasyJet?

You can check-in a golf bag and equipment up to a maximum of 20kg. Above this weight additional excess bag fees will apply of approximately £15 per 3kg increment.

EasyJet Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

Golf bags are classed as “Small Sports Equipment” by EasyJet. This means you will need to pay £37 per bag per flight if you add them to your booking online. If you wait until you check-in at the Airport the cost will increase to £47 per bag.

If you are travelling as a group on one booking there’s no limit to the number of golf bags allowed, as long as it doesn’t exceed one per person.

Frontier Airlines (US Domestic)

Do Frontier Airlines accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

Frontier Airlines will accept your golf clubs on board as a piece of regular checked baggage. One bag which may include golf clubs and shoes. Allow an extra 30 minutes for check-in.

What are the size & weight restrictions on golf baggage with Frontier?

The maximum weight for golf bags passengers want to check in with Frontier Airlines is 40 pounds (18.1 kilograms) – subject to the fees outlined below.

Your bag should have dimensions of less than 62 linear inches (length x width x depth) including handles, wheels and straps.

Baggage weighing 100 or more pounds (45 kilograms) or exceeding 110linear inches will not be accepted

Frontier Airlines Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

Bags weighing 41-50 pounds will be charged $50 per bag, per direction.

Bags weighing 51-100 pounds will be charged $100 per bag, per direction. 

Bags in excess of 100 pounds will not be accepted.

Iberia (Europe)

Does TUI accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

Although charges will apply you can check-in one golf bag with 14 clubs, 12 balls and one pair of shoes per person per flight.

Golf clubs should be securely fastened inside the bag

On long-haul flights golf bags can be included as part of your normal baggage allowance.

There are different charges depending on your flight duration and if you pre-pay online or at the airport.

What are the size & weight restrictions on golf baggage with Iberia?

You can check in golf bags weighing up to 23kg for the standard charges. For bags weighing between 23-32kg there will be excess fees to pay at the airport

Iberia Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

Fees depend on whether you pre-book your golf bags online or at the airport and the destination of your flight.

Short-Haul flights  Online: €35/$40/£32 Airport: €45/$55/£40

Medium Haul flights: Online: €40/$50/£35 Airport: €45/$55/£40

Jet Blue (US Domestic)

Do Jet Blue accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

A golf bag will count as a checked bag and may contain no more than: 14 golf clubs, 3 golf balls & 1 pair of golf shoes.

What are the size & weight restrictions on golf baggage with Jet Blue?

Jet Blue passengers can check in a golf bag without charge up to a weight of 23kg (50lbs). Anything above this weight will incur an overweight baggage fee.

Jet Blue Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

Golf equipment should be packed in a hard-sided container. 

JetBlue will also accept soft-sided bags but is not liable for damage to the bag or contents.

Ryanair (Europe)

Do Ryanair accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

Sports equipment may be carried in the hold of the aircraft in addition to personal checked baggage allowance up to a limit of 20 kilos per item.

What are the size & weight restrictions on golf baggage with Ryanair?

If you’re travelling with Ryanair on your next golf trip and want to avoid excess bag fees make sure your golf bag does not exceed the size restrictions of 81cms (height), 119cms (width) and 119cms (depth) or weigh more than 20kg.

Ryanair Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

If a golf bag is carried in addition to your personal checked baggage allowance a fee is payable. £35/€35 per item, per one-way flight when pre-paid online.

A higher fee of £40/€40 per item/per one-way flight when paid at the airport or through a Ryanair call centre.  If the bag weighs over the 20kgs allowance it will be charged the applicable excess baggage rate at £9 per kg.

South West Airlines (US Domestic)

Do South West accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

Golf bags are accepted as checked in bags as long as they are in hard golf bag carrying case provided by the passenger, including clubs, balls, and shoes.

If you have a hooded golf bag or a soft-sided carrying case they will be conditionally accepted.

What are the size & weight restrictions on golf baggage with South West?

Overweight charges will apply to golf bags exceeding 50 pounds. Up to a maximum weight of 100lbs.

Maximum dimensions allowed are 62 inches in size (length + width + height)

South West Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

Unlike other domestic US airlines each passenger is allowed two free checked bags. Even better your golf bag counts toward your free checked bag if they are within the weight limit so they travel for free!

However, an overweight bag (50lbs+) will be charged at $75.

Sprint Airlines (US Domestic)

Do Sprint Airlines accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

Golf equipment checked in with Sprint Airlines is charged as a standard checked bag – £36 for the first bag.  Golf equipment is considered one golf bag with up to 14 golf clubs, 12 golf balls, and one pair of golf shoes.  

You can also bring a pull cart if it is attached to the golf bag.  

Sprint recommend using a hard-sided carrier to protect your clubs from shifting during the flight.

What are the size & weight restrictions on golf baggage with Sprint?

To avoid incurring additional baggage fees the maximum weight for your golf bag is 40lbs (18kg). Bags weighing over 100lbs will not be accepted.

However, one benefit for golfers flying with Sprint is that you don’t need to worry if your clubs are a little oversized in length – Sprint waive oversize charges on golf equipment.  

Sprint Airlines Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

Prices for checked bags vary depending on flight destination, availability and if you pay for them at the time of booking or later.  

The minimum charge is $36  per flight for your first bag weighing less than 41lbs. But if you pay for the same bag at the airport it could cost $89. Click here to get quotes for your flights.

Bags weighing 41 – 50 lbs. (18 – 23 kg) will be charged at $79 per bag

If your golf bag weighs 51 – 100 lbs. (23 – 45 kg) you will be charged $125 per flight.

Please note: A limited liability release will need to be signed when traveling with golf clubs.

TAP Portugal (Europe)

Does TAP Portugal accept golf bags as part of the personal baggage allowance?

Golf equipment can be checked in up to a maximum weight of 32 kg / 70 lbs.

Fees depend on flight distances and booking channel.

What are the size & weight restrictions on golf baggage with TAP Portugal?

TAP Portugal Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

Domestic flights : flights within Europe, or to Morocco, Tunisia, Israel:

Online: 45 EUR / 58 USD / 72 CAD

Airport : 50 EUR / 64 USD / 80 CAD

International flights:

Online: 80 EUR / 100 USD / 127 CAD

90 EUR / 112 USD / 142 CAD

TUI (Europe)

All checked luggage carries a charge depending on seat class and destination.

What are the size & weight restrictions on golf baggage with TUI?

Any bag above 55x40x20cm must be checked-in. The weight restrictions are limited to 20kg for a standard fare and 23kg for premium passengers.

TUI Golf Baggage Fees & Additional Information

Charges are £27 per bag per flight booked in advance.

For Long Haul flights the cost can increase to £32.

• Use a golf travel bag carrier – either a soft case or better still a protective hard case carrier will protect your clubs and if secured with a lock give you additional peace of mind that your prize possessions will be safe during the trip.
• Protect your iron heads by covering them with your socks! A top tip given to us by a seasoned golf traveller! Obviously, a sock won’t give your clubs protection against excessive impacts but it does stop the clubheads banging together which can cause chips or scratches.
• Book ahead where you can to save excessive charges – as you can see from some of the fees being charged above for checking in your golf bags at the airport. So planning ahead will keep your costs (and stress levels) to a minimum!
• Pack your golf shoes in your bag – most airlines allow you to pack golf shoes in your bag which can save significant space in your main luggage.
• Consider avoiding the hassle of flying with your clubs and use a specialist shipping company like Ship Sticks or Lugless who will pick-up your clubs from your door and deliver direct to your destination!

FAQ’s About Golf Baggage Fees…

The fees you will have to pay depend on your airline, destination, which cabin you are travelling in and the weight of your golf bag. Many long-haul flights will accept golf bags without fees but as a general rule you should expect to pay between $30 and $60 for bags weighing 40lbs (18kg) or under and that you’ve pre-booked online. You will be charged more for bags between 41lbs (18.5kg) to 100lbs and any bags checked in at the airport. Golf bags weighing over 100lbs(45kg) will probably not be accepted to travel.

From our research the general limits as to what you can pack into your golf carrier bag are: 1 golf bag, golf tees, 14 golf clubs, approximately a dozen golf balls, and a pair of golf shoes. However, depending on the airline you may also be able to include a golf umbrella some light clothing (e.g. waterproofs) and lightweight golf training aids. However, it is advisable to check with the airline before you travel if you are planning to pack anything out of the ordinary into your golf bag and be wary of the weight limits.

No. With most airlines you can check your golf bag in with the rest of your luggage and it will count towards your overall checked baggage weight limit. Once checked in you may need to take your golf bag to an oversized bag area for transportation to the aircraft and once you reach your destination it can be an “adventure” to find where baggage handlers drop off golf bags with the luggage collection area of some airports!

Yes. And to avoid additional fees we advise you pre-pay online wherever possible. Some airlines will charge you double the online fee to check in a golf bag at the airport or even worse at the gate. See our article above for a breakdown of the various fees by airline.

We recommend using a hard case carrier wherever possible even for short domestic flights mainly because they give additional protection and security. However, we’ve also used cheaper soft cases and despite the occasional rip and tearwe’ve not had too many issues. Softer cases are also easier to store when you reach your hotel or at home when your not travelling with your golf clubs.

About Golf Travel Caddie

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The 9 Best Golf Travel Bags to Protect Your Clubs

Traveling to golf destinations is an exciting adventure, filled with the promise of teeing off in new and captivating courses. However, it’s not without its challenges, especially when it comes to safeguarding your precious golf equipment. That’s where the indispensable tool of the trade comes in – the golf travel bag.

Navigating the vast landscape of golf travel bags can be overwhelming, but fret not. We’ve embarked on an extensive journey of research to bring you the cream of the crop, ensuring you’ll find the perfect companion for your golfing expeditions. After all, golfers and travelers come in all shapes and sizes, each with their unique needs and budgets.

In this comprehensive golf travel bag review, we’ll delve into the realm of this year’s top contenders. Our insights are rooted in over five decades of golfing expertise, promising you a curated selection of the finest options that cater to an array of preferences and requirements. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or an enthusiastic beginner, read on to discover the ideal golf travel bag for your needs.

The Best of the Best Golf Travel Bags

Hard case or soft case, padding and strapping, storage space, ease of movement, water resistance, 1. caddydaddy golf constrictor 2 – best overall golf travel bag, specifications, 2. sun mountain clubglider meridian – best four-wheel golf travel bag, 3. amazonbasics soft-sided bag with wheels – best value travel golf bag, 4. himal soft-sided golf travel bag – best wheel system for a golf travel bag, 5. skb cases ata deluxe wheeled golf bag – best premium golf travel bag, 6. club glove last bag pro golf travel bag – best warranty on a golf travel bag, 7. caddydaddy enforcer hard travel bag – best storage travel golf bag, 8. samsonite hard side golf bag, 9. outdoormaster padded golf bag, what to consider with golf travel this year, should i buy a hard or soft travel case, what is a travel golf bags with wheels, what is the best golf bag for travel, how do you protect your golf clubs when flying, can i put clothes in my golf travel bag, can you bring golf tees on a plane, can i bring a single golf club on a plane, is weight important for a travel bag, are golf travel bags considered oversized, what about small golf travel bags, tips for traveling with a travel case, related articles, factors to consider when selecting a golf bag for travel.

When traveling with golf clubs, you want it to be as easy and convenient as possible, and you want a good travel golf bag to offer maximum protection for your clubs. There are a few other factors that are also important. Let’s look closely at selecting the best golf bag for travel.

Some cases are made from a tough solid material, while others are made from a durable fabric and they generally contain padding to protect the clubs. Both options have pros and cons, and much will depend on your travel requirements and personal preference.

Soft cases are lighter, easier to store when not in use, and generally a bit less expensive. Because they are lighter and more compact, they are often easier to maneuver as you travel.

A hard golf club travel case is generally bulkier and often a bit more expensive, but they tend to offer much better protection

The weight of the travel bag is important for several reasons. Firstly, you will be lugging it around yourself at airports and in and out of cars during your travels. But more importantly, you will have to pay for excess luggage weight on your flights.

If you travel with a bag that is too heavy, you may incur weight penalties, thereby reducing the amount you can spend. You need to weigh up the benefit of the potential extra protection a heavier bag can offer versus the costs involved. Soft bags tend to weigh between 8 and 10 pounds, while hard case golf travel bags are roughly 12 to 20 pounds.

Remember that your clubs alone already weigh a fair amount, generally around 30 pounds. A heavy bag will add to this weight. It is a clever idea to check the weight limits and costs with the airline before traveling with your golf equipment.

The  PGA  offers some good advice on traveling with golf clubs.

The main purpose of golf bags for travel is to protect your clubs. Ensure the bag has sufficient padding to protect your investment. The very nature of travel puts them at risk, and unfortunately, a few baggage handlers are not too careful with the process. The more padding the better, although it adds bulk and weight to the bag.

A good strapping system is also important as this will secure your equipment in the golf bag for travel and ensure it does not bounce around inside.

Durability is important for the protection and the lifespan of the travel bag. Look at the quality of the materials used, including the handles and zippers. Ensure that you invest in a bag that will offer good protection and last for many excursions.

A good sign that a bag has decent durability is the warranty. It demonstrates that the manufacturer believes in the workmanship and materials used in making the golf bag for travel. Some companies are better at looking after their customers than others, so look into the warranty.

One obviously has to consider the budget when investing in golf equipment. We have covered bags for travel that will cater to a wide range of budgets. Consider the value of your clubs and the potential inconvenience and disappointment of club damage when you arrive at your destination.

A less expensive bag could save you some money in the short term but expose your clubs to greater risk, and the bag itself might need replacing sooner than you expect.

First and foremost, the bag you select for travel needs to accommodate the golf bag you intend to travel with and the length of your longest club. While most of them will suffice, the more compact options might not cater to certain equipment. Check first to be sure.

Secondly, you might need additional storage for shoes and other gear when traveling.  Many bags, particularly soft ones, have additional external pockets that allow for this.

The type of material used will determine the durability of the bag and the protection it provides. Soft bags are typically made from polyester or nylon. The thicker fabrics tend to offer more protection.

Hardshell golf travel cases are generally made from high-impact plastic or a composite substance. Some are stronger and more resilient than others.

The best travel golf bags have wheels because apart from good protection, you want a bag that is easy to handle and has good mobility. This will make your travels easier and reduce frustration. The design and quality of the wheels are important. In general, although a bit heavier, hardshell cases are easier to move if they have decent wheels.

There are, however, many soft cases that are well designed for easy mobility. Soft bags are less bulky and easier to store when not in use.

A wide base tends to make movement easier, as do larger wheels. Note that not all golf bags for travel have wheels.  Some will need carrying, or alternatively, you can put them onto a trolley to move them.

Straps and handles are also important when picking the bag up to move it around. Ideally, you want a top handle, middle handles, and a decent strap.

Most golf travel bags do not offer water resistance, although some are more effective than others. If this is important to you, look into this when making your selection. Hard travel cases for golf clubs tend to be better in this regard.

Some golf bags for travel will come with locks, while others do not, so you must purchase these separately. Factor this in when comparing options.

The 9 Best Golf Travel Bags 2024

Our rating: 4.8/5

• Value for money
• Compact and easy to store when not in use
• Lightweight (8.5 pounds)
• In-line skate wheels
• Lockable zippers
• Additional protective padding
• Heavy top padding
• Internal strap to reduce movement of clubs
• 3 External pockets
• Thick 1800 denier fabric
• 1-Year replacement warranty
• Good customer care
• No protective reinforcement around clubs
• Not the most stable base
• Material: Thick 1800 denier fabric
• Weight: 9 pounds
• Dimensions L x W x H (Inches): 51 x 13 x 15
• TSA Approved Locks: Purchase separately
• Wheels: 2 x inline skate wheels
• Waterproof: Yes
• Warranty: 1-year 

This is one of the most popular travel golf bags on the market and is highly rated by those that have used it. It is a soft style bag but has plenty of padding internally and on top. It also has an internal strap to keep everything in place. Despite being a soft bag, it will offer your clubs and equipment good protection.

It is made from thick and durable 1800 denier fabric and weighs only 8.5 pounds. This allows you to fold it into a compact size for easy storage when not in use. There are 3 external pockets for added storage during your travels. These are handy for shoes, clothing, and additional accessories.

The zippers are lockable. Note that you will have to purchase TSA locks separately. Thanks to the in-line skate wheels, the bag is easy to transport as you make your way on your travels. 

The Constrictor 2 Travel Cover is well made and comes with a 1-year warranty that offers a full bag replacement. According to most reports, customer care from CaddyDaddy is superb. We all know some airline staff are not too gentle with our bags so this will give you some peace of mind.

This is a value-for-money option that will make life easy and offer your clubs a good amount of protection when you travel.

Our rating: 4.6/5

• Solidly built
• Quality club protection
• Quality and effective four-wheel system
• Dense foam padding at the top
• Quality materials
• Heavy-duty two-way zippers
• Comes with TSA approved lock
• Highly durable
• Retractable pivoting wheels
• Internal grip straps
• 2 exterior pockets
• It looks impressive
• A fairly expensive investment
• Somewhat bulky

Specifications:

• Material: 1200 polyester fabric
• Weight: 11.3 pounds
• Dimensions LxWxH (Inches): 52 x 14 x 14
• Wheels: 2 at the bottom of the bag and 2 on the leg mechanism when extended 

If you travel with your golf equipment frequently and have a large budget, this is an outstanding choice. The price is one of the only downsides, but it is an investment that will last you many years and offer exceptional protection to your golf clubs and equipment on many golfing adventures.

This particular model is among the highest-rated golf bags for travel on the market, so clearly, the Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian has an effective build and design.

It weighs in at about 11.3 lbs and is bulkier than some other options, but this is due to the quality construction and added padding. The bag is made from a durable 1200 denier polyester fabric. Internal support or clinch straps will keep everything stable and secure for protection during travel. The zips are two-way zippers and heavy-duty for durability. They are easy to lock and come with a TSA-approved lock.

Most will agree that the bag looks great so that you can travel in style. One of the main advantages of this bag is the ease of movement it offers. It has a somewhat unique retractable four-wheel system that is agile and nifty. This stable design makes whipping through the airport or elsewhere to your destination a breeze.

Two external pockets offer additional convenient storage.

• It can stand upright when packed with your clubs
• A great affordable price
• Thick padding on all sides
• Wheels can crack easily
• Metal rivets inside the bag can be sharp
• May not last as long as some of the other models
• Material not as hard-wearing as it could be
• Material:  Nylon
• Weight: 8.65lbs
• Dimensions LxWxH (Inches): 50 x 13 x 15
• Wheels: 2x inline skate wheels
• Waterproof: No
• Warranty: 2-year

Just when you thought you had seen it all, Amazon also now offers their own brand of golf club travel bag that is an affordable option, with an impressive range of features. It measures 50” L x 13” W x 15” D, has two large side pockets, and has an integrated ID slot.

It is made with a durable fabric with reinforced stress points, smooth-rolling inline skate wheels, and extra protection around the curb rails. Furthermore, it features two compression-style straps on the outside of the bag to help keep your clubs securely fastened.

This is the least expensive option we have looked at, and a little lacking in our eyes, but it may still be worth your consideration.

Our Rating: 4.6/5

• Quality and effective wheel system
• Comfortable and practical handles
• Lightweight
• Quality zippers
• 2 Exterior bags
• Protective security strap
• Good customer support
• Himal satisfaction guarantee
• A fairly basic bag with limited extras
• Material: 600D heavy duty polyester
• Weight: 4.4 pounds
• TSA Approved Locks: Purchase Separately
• Waterproof: Water-resistant
• Warranty: 1-year limited warranty

There are two leading features in this bag. The first one is the wheel system that is smooth and effective, making the bag agile and nifty during your travels. The second is that it has a quality handle setup that makes it versatile and easy to manage. 

This travel golf bag makes life easy whether you are pulling or carrying. The cushioned handles are comfortable and well designed.

The main body uses quality 600D heavy-duty polyester which is both tough and durable. And there is plenty of space to accommodate most clubs and accessories.

The quality zippers make for smooth and easy access to your equipment and are built to last. The bag features two exterior pockets for convenience. The PVC bottom is stable and protective, and the security strap will keep clubs and equipment safe and secure.

Himal cares about their customers, and they offer a satisfaction guarantee which is highly advantageous. To summarize, the bag is practical and effective at a moderate price. Oh, and it looks pretty damn good too!

Our rating: 4.5/5

• Industrial strength latches
• Extremely good protection
• Resists moisture and dirt
• Impressive SKB’s Million Mile Guaranty and lifetime warranty
• Convenient TSA Locking System
• Not the sexiest golf bag for travel
• Might be a bit of a squeeze for larger cart bags
• On the heavy side for travel
• Material: Polyethylene
• Weight: 15.71 Pounds
• Dimensions LxWxH (Inches): 52 x 13 x 16
• TSA Approved Locks: Comes with TSA locking system
• Warranty: SKB’s Million Mile Guarantee, SKB’s lifetime warranty

This bag was designed more for function than for form. It is far from ugly but rather utilitarian in appearance. What that means is that you get some serious protection and great durability — its built  to last. The high molecular weight polyethylene construction makes it very tough and durable. The U.S. military uses this same material for many different applications, so that has to tell you something about the strength.

While snug and protective, the design is spacious and easily accommodates most golf bags —drivers up to 48 inches are no problem for the SKB Cases ATA Deluxe.

The latches (patent pending) are industrial strength, and the bag has a TSA locking system. Furthermore, the bag is moisture, dust, and dirt resistant. This is thanks to the “SKB’s Perfect-Match™ valance bending system.” They also offer an impressive million-mile guarantee with $1,500 club coverage.

• Durable CORDURA fabric
• Water-resistant
• Thick interior foam padding
• Available in a wide range of colors
• Limited lifetime warranty or upgradeable “unconditional” warranty
• Quality YKK zippers
• ITW Nexus buckles
• Popular with professionals
• Two shoe pockets
• The bag is bulky
• Rather heavy
• A fair investment
• Material: 1000 D nylon CORDURA fabric
• Weight: 10.6 pounds
• Dimensions LxWxH (Inches): 51 x 19 x 16
• Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty — can purchase additional “unconditional” warranty

This is a popular bag with players at all levels and is favored by many of the pros. That should indicate the quality and durability of the bag and the protection it provides. The Cordura exterior gives it the strength to protect your clubs even from the most heavy-handed baggage agents. The 1000 D nylon will also resist water for additional protection. Complete with interior furnishing that uses plush foam pads, it delivers excellent protection for your clubs.

It can handle clubs up to 47″ in length, and the Club Glove Last Bag is available in a fantastic range of colors, so there is something to suit everyone.  Most agree that it looks stylish. The bag, including the fabric, is completely U.S.-made.

Evidence of the durability of this bag is the limited lifetime warranty and the upgradeable “unconditional” warranty. Clearly, Club Glove has faith in its product.

The wheelbase is another area in which this golf travel bag excels. It is high-impact and protective, while the inline skate wheels make it light on its feet and super easy to move. It also has a convenient two-piece handle making it easy to lift and maneuver.

Moreover, you can witness the quality in the ITW Nexus buckles and the YKK zippers, both are top-notch. It has 2 shoe pockets.

While the bag is on the large and heavy side and certainly not cheap, it is convenient and will give your clubs the protection they need and deserve. At the same time, it looks pretty great.

Check the price at Global Golf

Our rating: 4.3/5

• Good-sized exterior pockets for your golfing accessories
• High-quality durable wheels
• Takes up very little space once folded down for storage
• Great customer service with CaddyDaddy
• Benefits of both hard and soft cases combined
• Can be hard to maneuver
• The handle is quite hard and small, which can make it uncomfortable to hold
• Need to take time with the zips as they can be a little flimsy
• Material: 1800D fabric construction with Hard ABS mold top section
• Dimensions L x W x H (Inches): 51 x 13 x 13
• Waterproof: Molded section is waterproof, fabric section is water-resistant
• Hard-Sided Top and Soft-Sided Bottom Sections

Next, we have another model from CaddyDaddy, and this time we have one of the hybrid style cases. It has a crush-resistant ABS hardtop that provides added protection to your club heads, and a softer heavy-duty 1800 denier all-weather fabric at the bottom of the case for added durability.

The soft fabric bottom folds neatly into the hardtop for easy storage, and the Enforcer can accommodate most golf bags, including 10” cart bags. It weighs in at a very reasonable 9lbs, and the dimensions are 50” L x 13” W x 13” D.

Like many of the other models, it comes with a one-year warranty that covers any damage caused by the airlines.

Our rating: 4.7/5

• Very easy to maneuver
• Unbeatable warranty period
• Push or pull using either handle
• Internal straps
• Beautiful red interior
• Foam padded
• Handles are not particularly durable
• Heavy impacts can cause cracks to form
• Material: ABS plastic
• Weight: 5 pounds
• Dimensions L x W x H (Inches): 54 x 16 x 12
• Wheels: 2 x inline skate wheels & 4 multi-directional spinner wheels
• Waterproof: Not specified
• Warranty: 5-year 

The Samsonite Hard Side golf bag may prove to be the best hard case golf travel bag. Made from ABS plastic, it is very rigid and sports an attractive slim side design. The interior adds to its allure. The black version has a brilliant red interior with plenty of foam padding and internal straps.

What’s more, the bag is very easy to maneuver. It features two inline skate wheels and four multi-directional spinner wheels. This pairs with two handles: one at the top and another at the side. So you can choose to either push or pull the bag depending on your preference.

Another benefit is that the bag is exceptionally lightweight for a golf club hard case. This is due to its ABS plastic build. It comes in at just 5lbs making it the second lightest bag on this list, placing behind the Himal Soft-Sided golf travel bag which is 4.4lbs.

And to really drive this bag home, it comes with an outstanding 5 years of warranty. This beats out almost all other bags and demonstrates the reliability of Samsonite products.

• Well-padded
• Wear-resistant
• Protective rubber base
• Stabilizing straps
• Card pocket
• Shoe compartment
• Can rip over time
• Material: 900D Oxford fabric
• Weight: 6.35lb
• Dimensions L x W x H (Inches): 54.3 x 14 x 15
• Wheels: 2x inline skating wheels
• Warranty: 1 year

If you’re on a tight budget, the OutdoorMaster golf bag could be a good option. It’s well-padded and has a four-layer design, including a premium 900D Oxford fabric layer and a waterproof coating layer. This means it feels great and keeps your precious golf gear dry.

You have a few different options for how you want to carry it. You can wheel it along using the 2x inline skate wheels and the top handle, carry it like a duffel bag using the two middle handles, or you can sling it over your shoulder and carrying it on your back using the long strap on the back.

A few neat features for this bag that quite a few don’t have is the dedicated card pocket and shoe compartment. This helps to keep you organized and means you don’t have to lug around another bag for this necessary gear.

If you’re shopping for a travel golf bag this year, there are a few specific considerations for 2024 going into 2024. Specifically, you’ll want to watch out for baggage fees. After the pandemic, airlines looked for any way possible to increase their profits. Baggage fees were an easy one.

So check out weight and size restrictions before you buy your golf bag. You shouldn’t have a problem checking your clubs, but you’ll want to avoid any surcharges.

Note also that golf vacations are super popular. We’re not the only ones who like to hit the links on our days off. A bunch of new players emerged during lockdown, and you’ll want to book early.

When you’re looking up restrictions weight and size for your travel golf bag, you can also check storage policies at your destination course. You may be able to keep your clubs at the course while you stay at a nearby resort.

Golf Travel Bag FAQs

This will probably be the first decision that faces you when you start looking for a travel case, and they both have their pros and cons depending on your golf travel needs.

These will be the more expensive of the two and are usually made of hard plastic. They offer the highest level of protection for your clubs, and from an insurance point of view, many airlines will only cover damage caused to your clubs when they are inside a hard case.

The downside to a hard case is that they are heavier, generally larger, and less flexible than the soft style case, which may cause problems when loading them into your car.

Hard cases generally only have one main storage compartment and no extra pockets. This means you have to find room for things like your golf shoes in your luggage.

A softer golf travel bag, usually made of cloth, will be far lighter and generally easier to transport back and forth to the airport. Another advantage of the soft case is that they will often come with two or three extra pockets on the outside for you to store things like your golf shoes, balls, and other accessories.

Because the soft cases are lighter, there is more chance of you staying within the weight limit set by the airline. The one thing you don’t want to be doing is paying extra for an overweight case.

The downside to a soft case is the lack of protection it offers compared to a hard case which means the likelihood of any damage occurring is far greater.

Make sure you always check with your airline before you fly, so you know their policies and weight limits concerning the transportation of golf clubs. This will ensure that you don’t get any unwelcome surprises once you arrive at the check-in desk.

Hybrid Case

There is a style of case that blends the benefits of both a hard and soft design. It has a hard protective top for your club heads, and the bottom is made of a softer material that keeps the overall weight down and makes it easier to carry or fold away when you are not using it.

Most bags come with two inline skate wheels, although the better option is to have spinner wheels that allow you to steer the bag in any direction. The wheel system on a travel golf cart assists with the maneuverability of the bag, especially in confined spaces. 

In our opinion, the best golf travel bag for airlines is the CaddyDaddy Constrictor 2. The reason we prefer this over the rest is that it has all the features we want in a bag and is very reasonably priced. This means you have more money to spend on other equipment like golf clubs .

To keep your clubs well-protected when flying, you need to prevent them from rattling around in your bag. The easiest way to do this is to wrap towels or clothes around the head of your clubs.

Assuming your golf bag and clubs weigh around 12kg, you still have at least 8kg to play with within weight allowances to fly. Therefore it is a great idea to pack clothes into your golf travel bag.

Airlines do not have strict rules regarding golf tees. You can store them in your carry-on bags or your checked luggage.

As golf clubs can classify as deadly weapons, they are not eligible for carry-on bags. You must instead store them in your checked luggage.

Weight is very important. Usually, you are restricted to 23kg. And if you go over this limit, you’ll have to pay an excess luggage charge, so make sure you weigh your travel bag before going to the airport to check you are within the limit.

Oversized luggage are bags that do not fit within the thresholds of what airlines allow. As each airline has its own thresholds, some bags may be considered oversized with one airline and not with another. Generally speaking, these thresholds are around 62-126 linear inches.

The smallest golf travel bags can hold 7 to 10 clubs and a few accessories. Many weigh under 1 lb. They are often used for trips to the driving range. Be aware that some smaller golf travel bags may be too short to cater to your driver, especially if you max the shaft out at 48 inches.

Here is our favorite small golf travel bag . 

To make traveling with your golf clubs as hassle-free and safe as possible, we have a few tips for you:

• With many modern drivers and  fairway woods , you can remove the club-head. We advise doing this and storing them separately for added protection.
• Where possible, wrap some towels or socks around the clubs in your bag to stop them banging about (If you have iron covers, you could also use these).
• Placing your irons upside down in your golf bag may also help protect the clubs while transporting them.
• Ensure you photograph the contents of your golf bag before placing it into the travel bag in case you need it for insurance purposes should anything get lost or damaged.
• If you find your golf bag is a little too loose inside of the case, you can always place some of your clothes inside to help pad it out a little. Your golf clothes shouldn’t add too much weight and act as an extra layer of protection.
• Keep all of your expensive accessories, such as GPS units, with you in your hand luggage. Don’t place them in your travel case.
• And finally, make sure that you have adequate travel insurance that covers your golf clubs should anything get lost or damaged while in transit.

Final Thoughts

Clubs are a fair investment, and if you intend to travel with them, it is worth spending a bit more to get the best golf travel bag to protect them on your journey. We have given you some tips on what to look for when evaluating the available options, and some specifics on five of the leading options on the market at the moment.

While they are all great, the CaddyDaddy Golf Constrictor 2 Travel cover stood out for us as the absolute best of the best. It ticks all the right boxes and has everything you want in a golf travel bag.

This popular model is durable and has plenty of protective padding and a secure internal strap. The materials used are of decent quality, as is the workmanship, and the bag is of great value for money. It is also spacious, has plenty of storage, and the warranty and after-sales support are good.

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Charl Jooste

Charl is an avid golfer who studied marketing and advertising. He is fascinated by new golf equipment technology, and the perfect swing mechanics. You can connect with Charl on LinkedIn , IG , or FB . 

• Charl Jooste https://www.golfspan.com/author/charl-jooste Bushnell Tour V5 Review - Top Choice For Pros, Is It Right For You?
• Charl Jooste https://www.golfspan.com/author/charl-jooste 8 Best Golf Cart Speakers: Pros, Cons, Reviews
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• Charl Jooste https://www.golfspan.com/author/charl-jooste The 5 Best Indoor Putting Greens & Mats

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Flying With Golf Clubs: How to Safely Pack Golf Clubs for Travel

This is the ultimate guide to flying with golf clubs. We answer all your questions about how to travel safely with golf clubs on an airplane.

Included below is information about:

• Airline bag fees for golf clubs
• Which airline is the best to fly on with your golf clubs
• Packing tips for your golf clubs
• Everything you need to pack alongside your golf clubs when you travel
• Alternatives to flying with golf clubs: Ship Sticks, Lugless, UPS, and FedEx

If we’ve missed anything, comment below and let us know!

Flying With Golf Clubs: Preparation

Preparing for flying with golf clubs involves several steps to ensure their safety and minimize any potential mishaps.

First, it is crucial to carefully read and understand the airline’s policies regarding golf clubs , including compensation for damage and any restrictions on packing.

Flying direct is recommended to reduce the chances of clubs being lost or mishandled during connections.

To safeguard sentimental items, keep them in carry-on luggage .

Investing in a high-quality travel bag that meets weight requirements and taking protective measures, such as using a stiff arm or placing a bucket over the clubs, can help prevent damage.

Once you feel prepared, you can book those flights and proceed.

Airline Bag Fees for Transporting Golf Clubs

The cost of flying with golf clubs and sports equipment will vary depending on your airline. Most airlines treat golf clubs in place of standard checked luggage. You are then responsible for paying that airline’s baggage fees.

Most airlines have a checked baggage fee of $30-$50. Some airlines offer free checked luggage, which applies to golf clubs, but they usually have overweight fees if the bag exceeds the standard weight limit of 50 pounds.

Delta Airlines Golf Bag Fees

Delta Airlines will charge you $30 for a golf bag if your clothes are in your carry-on bag and $40 if it is not.

Southwest Airlines Golf Bag Policy

Southwest Airlines will let you take your golf bag on its flights completely free because they offer two checked bags with all of their tickets!

United Airlines Bag Fees

United Airlines will charge you $30 for your golf bag if your clothes are in your checked luggage and $40 if not. These prices go up if you don’t pay for your baggage until you get to the airport.

Average Weight of a Set of Golf Clubs

The average weight for a set of golf clubs and bag is 30 pounds . This accounts for the standard 14-club set inside a standard-sized golf stand bag .

If you carry more or fewer clubs, the weight will shift. The same can be said for the type of golf bag that you have. If you have a more oversized cart bag , the weight of those is more than a standard carry bag.

Checking the Fine Print of Airline Policies

When flying with golf clubs, reading and understanding airline policies is crucial. Most airlines treat golf clubs as standard luggage and allow them to be checked.

However, it is essential to check the specific guidelines of the airline you are flying with. Some airlines may have weight and size restrictions and additional fees for checking in golf clubs as baggage.

All airlines will charge an overweight fee if the golf bag is over 50 pounds . They also limit the linear sizing of your travel golf bag. Familiarizing yourself with these airline policies will ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

What is the Best Airline for Golf Clubs?

Flying with golf clubs on southwest airlines.

Southwest Airlines is different from other airlines regarding traveling with golf clubs. Southwest offers two complimentary checked bags, and this includes golf equipment.

Your golf bag must be in a hard travel case with your golf balls and shoes inside. The free checked baggage fee makes Southwest the best airline to fly with golf clubs.

Other airlines, such as American Airlines and Delta, will charge you a standard airline baggage fee for your golf bag.

Why Booking Nonstop Flights Matters for Golfers

Having a direct flight is always recommended when traveling with golf equipment. This ensures that your golf clubs head directly to your destination, and there is no chance of them being damaged or lost during connecting flights.

That isn’t to say they can’t be damaged during a nonstop flight, but the risk is lower. When you fly direct, the chance of anything happening is lower than with connections.

Should You Check or Carry On Your Golf Clubs?

Most airlines will not let you take golf clubs on board as a carry-on bag . This means they must be part of your checked luggage and go down where the other luggage is. Golf bags are usually found at the baggage claim for oversized items.

Packing Tips for Traveling with Golf Clubs

Choose a durable travel bag: Opt for a hard travel case if you want maximum protection, as airlines usually only cover damaged clubs in hard cases. They will cover soft cases, but you must usually sign a limited waiver.

Remove club heads: For adjustable clubs, it’s recommended to remove the heads and store them separately to reduce the risk of bending or breaking.

Prevent movement: Cover the irons and wedges with socks and weave a towel through the clubs to minimize movement. Use bubble wrap or packing materials to fill empty spaces in the bag and prevent the clubs from rubbing against each other.

Take direct flights: Whenever possible, choose direct flights to minimize handling and reduce the chances of damage.

Use a stiff arm or broom handle: Place a stiff arm or a broom handle inside the bag to absorb impact if the bag is dropped headfirst.

Pack additional padding: Fill the extra space in the bag with clothes or towels to provide additional padding and protection for the clubs.

How to Choose the Right Travel Golf Travel Bag

Hard case vs. soft bag: what’s best for flying.

When deciding between a hard or soft golf travel bag , there are several factors to consider.

Hard cases provide more protection and security for your clubs, making them ideal for air travel with a higher risk of damage during transit. They are more secure, durable, and lockable. However, hard cases are often more expensive and less flexible when fitting into small spaces.

On the other hand, soft cases are more affordable and flexible, offering more accessible travel and storage options. Soft bags are generally lighter and easier to maneuver. They also often come with wheels for easy transport and extra room for storing additional items. However, they offer less protection than hard cases do.

Regardless of the type of bag you choose, it is essential to ensure that it provides ample padding and protection for your clubs.

Best Hard Golf Travel Bag

Our favorite hard golf bag is this CaddyDaddy Enforcer . It has a hard ABS molded top, but a softer bottom to stay lighter overall.

Best Soft Golf Travel Bag

Our favorite software golf bag is this Himal soft bag . The framing of the bag is sturdy enough to keep your clubs safe on an airplane.

Extra Storage Space for Clothing

One other thing you should look into when considering purchasing a golf travel bag is the extra storage space throughout the bag. You can bypass a second checked bag if you have room to include your clothing.

Carry-ons are usually free, so this is where you can keep your prized possessions and personal items with the most sentimental value. As long as adding clothing to your travel bag does not put the bag over the maximum weight, you will be fine on your way to your destination.

Clothing is an easy way to add protection to your golf clubs as possible.

Essential Items to Ship With Your Golf Bag

In addition to your clubs, there are several other things to remember to pack in your travel bag:

If you are going through the effort to ship your own set of precious clubs on your golf trip, the least you can do is remember all of your golf gear.

Alternatives to Flying with Golf Clubs

One alternative way to travel with your golf clubs would be shipping them directly to your destination. The good news is that plenty of shipping companies specialize in shipping golf clubs. A few of these companies include Ship Sticks and Lugless.

Ship Sticks Overview

Ship Sticks is one of the most popular golf club shipping companies worldwide. The process is very straightforward, and they provide an upfront quote and delivery estimate based on your travel schedule.

Once you schedule your shipment, you can print off the shipping label, drop the clubs off or arrange a pickup, and reunite with them at your destination. Ship Sticks will also protect your clubs.

The shipment is insured up to $1,000; you can pay to increase that amount.

Click here to try Ship Sticks.

The pricing for Ship Sticks depends on where the pickup is, the destination, as well as the type and weight of the travel bag.

For example, shipping from New York to Phoenix costs $49.99 each way with the ground service. This requires three business days to do so.

You can also pay more to expedite your shipment.

Lugless Overview

Lugless is another shipping company like Ship Sticks. From personal experience, Lugless is also slightly cheaper than Ship Sticks.

Lugless also allows you to add services with extra protection you want to pay for or decline if you save money. You can print your labels, drop the clubs off yourself free of charge, and waive any insurance coverage on your clubs.

You can also pay extra to insure your shipment or pick up the clubs.

Click here to try Lugless.

Like Ship Sticks, Lugless pricing depends on where you are going and how fast you want to get your clubs there. Like our example above, going from New York to Phoenix would cost around $40 each way.

Shipping Golf Clubs with UPS or FedEx

UPS and FedEx also offer the option to ship your golf clubs through them, but in our personal experience, they are considerably more expensive than Ship Sticks and Lugless.

Shipping golf clubs through UPS or FedEx will cost upwards of $100 each way, with ground service taking at least four business days to reach your destination. This could be more efficient and cost-friendly for your golf travel.

The best deal for shipping your golf clubs will be through other companies.

When Shipping is a Better Option Than Flying

Shipping golf clubs can be better than flying with them in several scenarios:

Shipping is often cheaper than checking an extra bag with airlines, especially for smaller flights.

Shipping eliminates the uncertainty and potential headaches of checking in luggage at the airport.

It may be safer to ship clubs as most airlines do not assume liability for damage to soft-shell golf travel bags.

Shipping is convenient for international travel, avoiding the need to claim and recheck bags and eliminating the risk of other passengers taking your clubs at the baggage claim.

Pros and Cons of Shipping Golf Clubs

There are many pros to shipping your golf clubs ahead of time. Shipping companies offer much better protection for your clubs as opposed to airlines. These companies also protect your clubs should anything happen to them in transit.

Shipping before your trip will also provide less hassle on travel day. You can also ship your clubs directly to your hotel or golf course, meaning you don’t have to lug your clubs around on public transportation after leaving the airport.

There are also some cons to shipping your golf clubs. Shipping golf clubs will usually cost considerably more than checking them in with the airline.

You also must plan the shipping ahead of time because there are travel days in between when you will be without your golf clubs. It also adds one more thing to arrange on top of your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Flying with Golf Clubs

How much does a set of golf clubs weigh.

An average set of golf clubs weighs about 30 to 35 pounds, including the bag.

How much does it cost to take your golf clubs on an airplane?

Most airlines charge a checked baggage fee of $30 to $50. The exception is Southwest Airlines which offers two free checked bags, which include your golf clubs.

How do you pack golf clubs so they don’t break?

Choose a durable, hard-cover travel bag and put socks on your irons with a towel weaved between the clubs. This will offer maximum protection.

How do you fly with golf clubs without a travel golf bag?

Use a sturdy duffle bag or hard case, cover your clubs with bubble wrap or socks, and wrap your clubs in towels to ensure little movement.

Are golf clubs included in baggage fees?

Most, if not all, airlines include golf clubs as checked baggage.

How do you check in your golf clubs at the airport?

Head to the airline desk, where they will put a luggage tag on your travel bag, which will be sent off with your other luggage. Golf clubs usually arrive at the airport in the oversized or overweight bags area instead of the usual luggage carrousel.

What are some alternatives to traveling with golf clubs on a plane?

If you don’t want to travel with your golf clubs on the airplane, your only other options are shipping them before you fly, renting clubs when you get to the course, or skipping golf during your trip.

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Baggage Carousel Etiquette: 5 Top Tips

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How is an airplane like a set of golf clubs? Their respective users covet both and take good care of them as if they were a family member. No harm can come to these prized possessions. For this reason, many travelers go out of their way to ensure that golf clubs are protected when flying on commercial aircraft. So, how can we ensure our clubs will arrive in good shape, and how much will it cost?

Taking Your Golf Clubs Abroad VS. Hiring Golf Clubs

Before we dive into the specifics of how to pack and protect your clubs, consider whether it is better to travel with your own set to hire some at your destination. Of course, this all depends on the purpose of the trip. Taking your own clubs may be worthwhile if you plan to participate in competitive play. Playing on holiday is another matter; hiring clubs at your destination may be a better option.

Choosing the right airline

Most airlines charge a fee for checking in golf clubs as luggage, which may vary depending on the airline and the destination. They have weight and size restrictions for checked baggage , including golf clubs. Generally, the weight limit is around 50 pounds (23 kg), and oversized or overweight bags can incur additional fees.

Airlines are typically liable for damage or loss of checked baggage, including golf clubs, up to a certain amount. However, they may exclude liability for damage to fragile items, which can include clubs with some carriers. These companies may have specific requirements for how golf clubs must be packed, such as using a golf travel bag. Please comply with these requirements to avoid additional fees or the refusal to transport your clubs. It's important to check with the airline you are flying with to understand their policies regarding checking in golf clubs as baggage. You can typically find this information on the airline's website or by contacting their customer service department.

Checked or carry on?

The short answer is: checked. Finding an airline allowing you to take a set of golf clubs as a carry-on will be difficult. Even your security screening personnel will likely stop you from doing so if the check-in counter agent has not already done so. Therefore, what can we expect when we check in our precious clubs?

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Protecting your investment

Golf clubs can be quite expensive, so it pays off to ensure they are packed with great care, especially when you consider that they'll be placed (hopefully not thrown) into a baggage hold. Here are some tips for transporting them as safely as possible.

Invest in a high-quality golf travel bag designed to protect your clubs during transport. These bags typically have extra padding and reinforcement to prevent damage during handling.

When packing your clubs, ensure they are secure and won't move around during transport. Use towels or clothing to fill gaps in the bag and keep your clubs from shifting. Remove loose items from the bag, such as golf balls or tees. Pencil bags are less bulky and weigh less than hard cases, so they might keep you away from oversized/overweight baggage charges. However, they are not as sturdy and are less protective when tossed by ground crews or from bags being thrown on top of them.

Put a luggage tag with your name, contact information, and destination address on your bag. This may seem like common sense, but travelers sometimes overlook this important detail. Air tags provide an additional layer of security and tracking if your bag gets lost or misplaced.

Shipping Is an Option

Finally, the best solution may be to ship your bags via a dedicated logistics company rather than an airline. Shipping companies specialize in this service and may offer additional security measures at a lower cost. Doing your research ahead of time will help you enjoy the most of your golfing holiday.

Travel Tips: Flying with Golf Clubs

Have you ever wondered how to travel with golf clubs so your clubs arrive safely to your destination?

Traveling is a love-hate relationship for most people. Once you arrive at a destination, it’s fun but getting there and back is a hassle, especially if you’re traveling with clubs.

When you bring your sticks, you have to buy a travel bag, pay for checked luggage, and hope they make it safely to your destination. But the alternative of renting a set isn’t much better. If you going to play an exciting new course, the last thing you want is a set of irons and woods that you’ve never touched or aren’t similar to the ones you love at home.

Usually, if you’re playing an awesome course while traveling, you want your own weaponry for the adventure. Here’s how you can learn how to travel with golf clubs and make sure they end up safely at your destination.

How to Travel With Golf Clubs

Before I get into the details of traveling with your sticks, I recommend that you always evaluate if you need your clubs vs. the cost of renting ones while you’re there. While renting isn’t ideal, if you’re new to the game or aren’t playing a tournament, sometimes renting is easier. Make sure to call ahead to the course and see if they have rentals, what is available, and reserve them if you choose.

But if you decide to travel with your own set, you want to always prepare for the worst (i.e. having your clubs lost, stolen or damaged). Airlines regularly lose luggage (including golfers prized possession) and damage can occur to your precious clubs. While this doesn’t happen often, it’s part of the risk of flying.

When it comes to traveling with golf gear there are two main goals; get them there safely and make it as cost-effective as possible. 

Here are some of the best strategies to traveling with golf clubs:

Fly Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines  is great for a host of reasons; great service, low cost, and the best feature for golfers is the no checked bag fees! You can check your golf bag for free and check another bag or use it as a carry-on. Other airlines charge between $25-$50 for checked bags and have strict weight and size limits which makes it expensive if you’re bringing multiple sets.

Book a Nonstop Flight

There isn’t much worse than having to sit in an airport during a layover or run off your plane to catch your next one. If you’re rushing to make it to your connecting flight, don’t forget your clubs have to make it as well. This is the time where baggage handlers might get a little sloppy and do some serious harm to your sticks.

So if your gear is going with you, I suggest booking a nonstop flight. Not only are nonstop more convenient for you, but it’s also less likely that anything happens to your favorite set gets as there is less transit time.

Plus, it makes it easy to incur less damage as your bag isn’t being handled between connecting flights. Pay the extra few bucks by booking a direct flight so you can get there faster and easier.

Also try to find a flight with less busy airport times so you don’t have to worry about long lines either.

Get a Durable Travel Bag

When it comes to actually getting your bag on a flight, you need a dependable travel bag. Most airlines allow bags under 50 pounds which is plenty of room for each club, shoes, and gear. But some discount airlines, such as Allegiant Air and Spirit Airlines, only allow bags up to 40 pounds.

This is something you want to look at in advance so you don’t have to try to clear ten pounds from your bag as your arrive. Otherwise, you might get a little bit angry and flustered at check in (I say that because this has happened to me before). I couldn’t get my bag below 40 pounds so I had had to pay an extra $50!

Also, before you pack up your bag, I recommend taking pictures of your bag, every club in the bag, and other gear for your records. This will help if something happens to them in transit and you need to file a claim with the airline.

Depending on what type of bag you have, I’d recommend possibly switching bags if possible. Use a sturdy cart bag than a stand bag that is thinner and more likely to have your sticks damaged as they tossed around by baggage handlers.

Another good tip is to pack your bag with extra towels in between all of your irons and wedges as your woods should have headcovers. Or you can also put your socks for the trip on your irons and wedges for added protection.

Best Golf Travel Hard Case

There are two main options when it comes to picking a travel golf bag; a hard case and soft travel case. The hard cover case provide the most protection for your clubs but are also heavier, bigger, and might not fit in every car.

Here is the hard shell golf travel bag I recommend:

• SKB Deluxe ATA Golf Travel Case  (read our full review here )

The other version to travel with is a soft case that doesn’t have as much protection for your equipment but is a much lighter and easier solution to transport. Personally, I’ve used both and now alway use a soft case as it’s easier to get into cars and haven’t had anything broken (knock on woods).

Here is the best soft case travel bags:

• CaddyDaddy Constrictor 2 Travel Cover  (I’ve used this bag for years and love how much storage it has with the three pockets on the outside.)
• Bag Boy Freestyle (this is a newer bag and has a really great wheel system that makes airports a breeze to get through)

For a deeper rundown, check out our full  review of the best golf travel bags .

Another great accessory to add to your bag is a  Bag Boy Backbone Support Sytem .  This aluminum rod goes into your bag and extends past your driver. This gives your soft cover more structure and less likely to snap a shaft in transit. This device is relatively inexpensive and will help protect your woods and it will last a long time! You can read our full review of the backbone here .

What to Pack

Aside from your 14 sticks, you also want to pack your shoes, towels, balls, tees, sweater, and rain gear if needed. Your bag itself is usually easily under the weight limit, I also pack liquids to make it easier to go through TSA as well.

Lastly, don’t leave any expensive items in your bag such as a GPS watch , rangefinder , personal items, or other expensive accessory just in case something happens.

Go here for a full Golf Trip Packing List .

How to Fly With Golf Clubs

Once your bag is packed and secured, don’t forget to add a carry ID on the outside of the travel case. Your travel case should have one pre-installed but maybe add an extra one as well for safety. Always add your full name, email address, and phone number.

Another good idea is to add something that makes the case easily identifiable such as a ribbon, sticker or something else. The last thing you want it another eager golfer at baggage claim to take your bag instead of his.

As you can probably tell, this entire process might sound like a lot of work for some people, especially if you live in any area of the country where you don’t have a car. Luckily, there are more alternatives to help you travel so you can keep travel day as easy as possible.

How to Ship Golf Clubs

Do you want to avoid the hassle of traveling with your set entirely?

Not to worry, now you can use a third-party for assistance.

Since travelling in general is such a hassle with TSA, baggage fees, etc, a few companies created a solution to make it easier for golfers like us.

Instead of lugging them in your car and the airport parking garage you can ship directly to your destination. There are tons of different services that make it easy to get your sticks from A to B with less hassle and worry.

If you want to keep your travel day headache free, you may want to learn more about the services below.

Ship Sticks

Ship Sticks  received the 2016-2018 Golf Digest Editor’s Choice Award for “best golf club shipper” so you know it’s trusted way to ship your clubs.

Here’s how the service works:

• Schedule your shipment using their online software
• Print and attach your shipping labels to the correct bags
• Drop off bags or allow them to be picked up by a Ship Sticks provider (not available in all areas)
• Enjoy your on-time bag arrival. Plus, you can track them along the way for added peace of mind.

Plus, your clubs are fully insured and include an on-time guarantee and shipment protection, unlike airlines which don’t offer much, if any, protection. You’re protected up to $1,000 and can pay a nominal fee to increase your insurance to $3,500.

This is a huge perk of using Ship Sticks!

Price of Ship Sticks

You’re probably thinking, this all sounds great but how much does Ship Sticks cost? It depends on how quickly you need your clubs there and where they are going.

In general, the prices of Ship Sticks are:

• Next day delivery – $119
• Two-day delivery – $109
• Three-day delivery – $79
• Ground shipping – $39

Planning your trip in advance and using ground shipping will save you tons of money and is much less expensive than a checked bag fee on most airlines.

Also, when you enter your email address and join, you can refer friends and receive $10 coupon code for future trips. Share with a buddy to start saving money!

Lugless  is another option to ship your set directly to your destination. When using Lugless, it’s the same process as Ship Sticks of printing, shipping, and having your clubs meet you at the course or hotel.

Since the site ships all luggage, not just clubs, the price are based on your travel destination. I suggest that you check out their  pricing page  so you can decide if it’s worth shipping your clubs.

Ship Golf Clubs UPS or FedEx

The last option to ship your clubs is using a major service like FedEx or UPS. You’ll have to visit a FedEx or UPS store near you to drop off and to ensure your clubs are packed correctly. The price is based on the weight, destination, and amount of time needed to arrive.

Learn more about these services on the  FedEx golf club page  and the  UPS golf club page  for more information.

Flying With Golf Clubs FAQ’s

Got more questions about traveling with golf clubs? Check out the most common ones here so you’re ready for your first excursion.

How much does a set of golf clubs weigh?

If you’re like most golfers about to embark on a trip, you’ve probably asked, “How much do golf clubs weigh?”

According to Golf Storage Guide , “ In short, the average set of golf clubs weighs around 30 pounds (13.6 kilos). This accounts for a complete set of 14 clubs inside your average sized golf bag. A standard golf bag accounts for 3 to 5 pounds of the figure.”

Most airline carriers require that your bags are under 50 pounds but some airlines are even less so it’s important to double check and weigh them at home first. Typically, the standard set of steel-shafted clubs, bag and gear weight are close to 35 pounds. Graphite shafts and a stand bag might weigh even less at roughly 25 pounds total.

For example, graphite vs. steel shafts. The latter will a slight increase to the overall weight. Also, your bag itself can make a difference. If you have a stand bag, it’s usually much lighter than an oversized cart bag.

Each set of clubs is different so use a scale at home to weigh your gear so that you can minimize fees at the airport.

How much does it cost to take your golf clubs on a plane?

It depends on the airline but fees can range greatly. Here is a great  baggage fee infographic provided by Ship Sticks that breaks down each airline baggage fee. In general, it’ll cost between $50-$150 depending on the number of bags and total weight. Like I mentioned before, using ground shipping and planning in advance is the cheapest way to go.

How do you pack golf clubs so they don’t break?

The easiest way to to protect your clubs are covering your irons and wedges with towels and socks. If you want to buy additional supplies, you can also buy bubble wrap and wrap each club but it does require more time on your end. If you have expensive shafts, you can also wrap them as well for added protection.

Another way to protect your woods while traveling is to unscrew the heads and store them in your bag wrapped in towels. If you do this, don’t forget to write down or take a picture of the settings for each clubs. There isn’t much worse than finally getting the right settings and then accidentally forget the settings!

The last strategy is to use a telescoping shaft that extends to the bottom of your bag and sits above the tops of your golf clubs. This is a good idea if you’re using a soft cover bag to ensure it doesn’t get crunched in transit.

What’s the price to fly on Easyjet or Jet2?

If you’re travelling internationally, you might book with these two providers as well. For Easyjet golf clubs, it’s around $40 euro and about the same for Jet2 golf clubs.

Final Thoughts on Traveling with Golf Clubs

I hope these travel tips can help make your next flying a lot easier!

Maybe you want to finally book that Scotland bucket list trip ( click here for our favorite golf trips )? Or perhaps you just want to escape  playing golf in the snow  and head to a warm destination?

Regardless, there a ton of options when it comes to traveling with your clubs instead of checking them through the airline. If you’re going to bring them with you, try to fly Southwest if possible and get a direct flight. Then, invest in a high-quality travel bag to protect your clubs in transit.

If you’re shipping clubs, I’d recommend Ship Sticks as it’s hassle-free and their entire business model is based around shipping golf clubs. They clearly know what they are doing and understand what it takes to protect your clubs to ensure they get from point A to point B.

But if you’re more familiar using UPS or FedEx, you can also use them as well. I suggest that you do a price comparison among all three providers so that you can get the best deal. Plus, they will pack your clubs to ensure they arrive safely.

Whichever route you decide to go, pack them tightly with towels, socks, or bubble wrap for maximum protection. And make sure that you have pictures beforehand in case anything does go wrong.

Otherwise, have a great time traveling and hopefully you can start playing your favorite golf bucket list courses around the world!

2 thoughts on “Travel Tips: Flying with Golf Clubs”

Very helpful.

Thanks for the tips,awesome. You may call me pedantic, but for the price we pay for our “sticks” these days, and the quality, could you please refer to them as golf clubs as apposed to sticks, a term I find offensive, told you I was pedantic!,

Regards Lex

Comments are closed.

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Home » Golf Inspiration » Golf bag luggage allowance & costs by airline

Golf bag luggage allowance & costs by airline

Golf bags will always need to be checked in when boarding the plane. They are far too large to place in the cabin. Most airlines, such as the ones below, will allow you to substitute a luggage bag for a golf bag. This means you can reduce your overall expenditures by doing this and packing clothes into hand luggage that you can bring on to the plane.

If you want to check in a large bag and golf clubs, then you can expect additional charges. Please see below then cost of checking in a piece of luggage for these major UK airlines.

If you have any further questions regarding luggage make sure to visit the website and research their baggage policies before booking.

Pricing accurate as of January 2021.

About the author

Dan is the owner of The Golf Travel People and has many years of experience in golf travel

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to all your ship sticks questions.

Please choose a topic below to better pinpoint your question you may have.

• How it Works
• Modify An Order
• Preparing Your Sticks
• Tracking Your Shipment
• Your Sticks Have Arrived
• Ship Sticks Guarantee
• Custom Orders
• International Shipping
• Filing a Claim
• Registration
• Pickup/drop off
• Customer Service

Yes. You can either drop your golf clubs off at the shipping facility, or schedule them to be picked up at your house, workplace or golf course.

Shipping costs vary depending on location, bag weight, and transit time. Detailed quotes can be obtained online by visiting our homepage and going to our Quick Quote feature.

Yes. Prior to placing your order, we recommend that you contact the destination to advise them of your shipment and your expected arrival date.

Yes you can cancel your pickup request at any time online by submitting your request via email to [email protected]. In your email please include the name on the order, along with the pickup date and location.

Yes. If for any reason you need to cancel an order, please submit your cancellation request online via email to [email protected]. You will obtain a refund less a $10 cancellation fee, or you may choose to receive an account credit for the full amount. The credit will never expire.

Yes. To request a new pickup date or location for your order, please send us an email to [email protected]. Please include the name on the order, your original pickup date and/or location and the new requested pickup date and/or location.

Yes. We understand the value of your clubs and automatically build in a baseline of $1,000 of insurance. You can add up to $7,500 to insure any single bag. Ship Sticks suggests at least $1,500 of insurance.

Ship Sticks recommends you select an amount that best matches the total estimated value of the item you are shipping. If it’s your golf clubs, you should select the total value of your golf clubs and bag including any travel case you use.

Ship Sticks’ shipment insurance protects against complete loss of your shipped item or against any physical damage that has occurred to the shipment while in transit. For items not shipped in a box, the outside casing is considered the shipping container and will not be insured.

No. You can ship your clubs in a travel bag, hard case, or box.

Yes. Standard golf bags must be 42 pounds or less to receive the stated discounts. If the total package weight exceeds 42 pounds, you must select the option for Staff/XL bag (up to 56 pounds). If a bag is shipped and it outweighs the maximum allowance for the bag size, the bag could be delayed in transit and you may be charged an overage.

You can purchase a shipping box at your local UPS or FedEx store.

Your clubs need to be packed in a shipping container -a golf soft travel bag, hard case, or box. Make sure the shipping container is completely sealed and all zippers, buckles, and latches are tight and secure. You will have to affix the shipping label to the shipping container as securely as possible with clear packaging tape. If using a soft travel bag we do recommend using a luggage tag to attach your shipping label to your travel bag. Packaging videos can be viewed on our "How it Works" page. It is also recommended to print a second copy of your shipping label and include it in an outside pocket (assuming you are shipping with a soft case that has one).

Yes. Bags and cases that are being shipped internationally should not be locked for customs reasons.

Upon placing your order, you will receive a confirmation email that includes your itinerary, shipping labels, and Ship Sticks Tracking ID. By clicking on the Tracking ID link in the email, you will be taken directly to your order on Ship Sticks which will provide you with the latest tracking information and details. If you need help with tracking your shipment or have questions regarding the status of your shipment, you may also contact our customer support team for further assistance.

Yes. Once your clubs have arrived at their destination, you will receive a notification via email.

Please contact Ship Sticks toll-free at (855) 867-9915 and a customer service representative will be happy to help locate your clubs, as well as take care of your immediate needs. Ship Sticks includes a complimentary $200 Shipment Protection Plan for any delayed item.

Yes. Next Day Air shipments will have specific commitment times. These times vary depending on zip code and location. If you need your clubs to arrive by a certain time via Next Day Air service, please contact our customer support team for assistance.

Yes. Once your sticks have arrived at their destination, you will receive a notification via email.

Ship Sticks will make every effort to ensure on-time delivery of International Shipments. Customs, and other factors within the shipper’s control including the legibility of customs forms may affect delivery times, which are outside our control. Ship Sticks will make every effort to aid and assist in getting any package through customs both home and abroad.

Ship Sticks includes a complimentary $200 Shipment Protection Plan for any delayed item.

Once your account has been created you will have access to an address book for easy rebooking of shipments, stored payment information, and quick access to your shipment history. You will also be eligible to receive special email promotions and shipping offers.

Yes. By becoming a club partner with Ship Sticks, you will gain access to some really great benefits that you can pass on to your members and guests. A few highlights of becoming a partner include complimentary shipping supplies, immediate access to our discounted rates, along with offering a service that is truly beneficial to you, your members and guests.

Simply give us a call at (855) 867-9915 and supply us with the approximate weight and dimensions of your item, where you want to ship your item, and we will coordinate the rest for you.

For information on what can and can’t be shipped, give us a call at (855) 867-9915. A few of the items that can be shipped include surfboards, boxes, and luggage.

Custom order costs will vary depending on weight and size of the item you intend to ship. To obtain a quote, please give us a call at 855-867-9915 or send us an email to [email protected].

Yes, to ship internationally or to get an international quote you can email [email protected] with your pick up location, delivery location and dates of your trip. You can also call (855) 867-9915 and a Ship Sticks Representative will provide you with a quote.

Bags and cases that are being shipped internationally should not be locked for customs reasons.

In order to file a claim, a Ship Sticks Claims Form must be submitted to a claims representative along with photographs of the damaged merchandise. All outer packaging (travel bag, case or box) used for shipping must be made available for either a physical or photo inspection by Ship Sticks or its Logistics Partners.

• A photo of shipping label attached to the travel bag, case or box that was used for shipping.
• A photo of travel bag, hard-case or box that was used for shipping -- showing how the items were packed.
• A minimum of 2 photos of the damaged item(s).

The length of the claims process can vary and may take up to (30) thirty days to complete. Should you have additional questions with regards to your claim or need assistance completing the Ship Sticks Claims Form, please do not hesitate to contact a Ship Sticks Claims Representative at (855) 867-9915.

Yes! Signing up is absolutely free.

No, anyone can use Ship Sticks!

Go to Ship Sticks and look for the registration link in the top-right.You’ll be guided through a simple process. Registration requires no commitment and only takes a few moments.

Any Golf Club can use Ship Sticks. We suggest you recommend your club pro offer the service, then you can start enjoying the convenience and savings of the Ship Sticks service right from your local pro-shop.

You may schedule a shipment up to 60 days in advance. You will be able to print your shipping label immediately after scheduling your shipment.

Yes. To ship more than one bag at a time, under Package Details in the booking page, click the “Bag Count” drop down arrow and select the number of bags you want to ship.

Yes. Adding pieces of luggage to your order is easy. Underneath the traveler section and below the pickup and delivery dates there is an option to select Luggage Count. From the drop down you can select the number of pieces and choose between a carry-on, checked, or oversized bag.

Yes, under Package Details on the booking page, you can type in any information you would like. For example: Confirmation Number XXXXX, Checking in XX/XX/XX, Guest of John Smith, etc.

Yes. Ship Sticks allows you to ship your clubs one-way or round trip.

Yes. In order to place a multiple leg order, you will need to create two one-way shipments instead of a round-trip shipment. Please note that Ship Sticks does not offer discounts for Round-Trip orders, so by purchasing two One-Way shipments there is no added cost.

Your logistics provider is included on the shipping label you printed. The label can also be accessed through the confirmation email that was sent to you after booking your shipment.

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Golf Cart Report

#1 Rated Golf Cart Consumer Guide

How Much A Golf Bag Weighs (With 10 Bag Examples)

June 19, 2020 by Brittany Olizarowicz Leave a Comment

Whether you are carrying your golf bag for a round or just merely looking to lift it in the trunk of your car, you know how heavy these bags can get.

When you put all of your supplies and equipment into a golf bag, the weight adds up fast.

There are some things you can do to help control the weight in your bag.

First, let’s start with how much a bag weighs with clubs, without clubs, etc.

When a golf bag is empty, it weighs much less than when you start filling it with clubs.

By the time you add golf balls and other gear, the weight shoots up fast.  

How Much A Golf Bag Weighs  

A golf bag is going to weigh anywhere from seven to eleven pounds.

A stand bag or carry bag is going to weigh anywhere from three to six pounds.

Cart bags tend to have much larger pockets and accommodate more belongings.

Cart bags also have a base on the bottom that helps them stay stable on a golf cart .

Since the base allows a cart bag to stand on its own, it has a good amount of weight to it.

A cart bag is not ideal if you plan on walking the golf course and carrying your golf bag.

Carry bags are designed to be very light and easy to walk and play with.

These bags usually have their weight evenly distributed so that it will be more comfortable to carry.

Some very small golf bags are called Sunday Bags.

These are usually just meant to carry a few clubs.

The concept is that on a Sunday afternoon, you can grab the Sunday bag and get a few holes in.

The weight of a Sunday bag is usually never more than about 3 pounds.

Sunday bags cannot stand on their own; you just lay them on the ground.

This helps to save quite a bit of weight.

How Much Does A Golf Bag Weigh In KG?

Since we determined that the average golf bag weighs 7 to 11 pounds, this would be about 3-5kgs. 

You may be wondering why it is essential to know the weight of your golf bag.

Where this comes into play is when you travel.

By the time you put your bag, clubs, golf balls, shoes, etc., into the travel bag, you could end up well over the fifty-pound limit.

This is important to consider when traveling.

If you need to buy some golf balls when you reach your destination, that will be the quickest way to lower the weight in your travel bag.

Golf Bag Weight Examples

To get a better idea of what some name-brand golf bags weigh, here is a list of ten golf bags and their weights.

These bags are empty golf bags.

Some are cart bags, and some are stand bags.

If you want a golf bag that is very lightweight and easy to walk an eighteen-hole round with, choose something less than four pounds.

By the time you add all of your equipment in, you will be glad you went for the lower weight golf bag.

• Callaway 2019 X Carry Stand Bag: 4.5 Pounds
• Callaway 2019 Select Stand Bag: 5 Pounds
• Ping 2020 Hoofer Lite: 5 Pounds
• TaylorMade 2018 Supreme Cart Bag: 7 Pounds
• Ping 2019 Pioneer Cart Bag: 7 Pounds
• Titleist 2020 Players 4 Carbon Stand: 3 Pounds
• TaylorMade 2020 Quiver: 3 Pounds
• Sun Mountain 2019 3.5 LS: 3.5 Pounds
• Ping 2020 DLX: 7.5 Pounds
• Ogio Shadow Fuse: 4 Pounds

How Much Does A Golf Bag Weigh With Clubs?  

Now that you have a general idea of what these bags weigh when they are empty let’s discuss the weight when they are full.

A full golf bag contains golf clubs, golf balls, tees, your windbreaker, a water bottle, and who knows what else.

Depending on how much gear you like to keep in your golf bag, a full golf bag can weigh anywhere from 20 to 50 pounds.

Some golfers carry fewer clubs than others.

Some golfers have three dozen golf balls in their bag for some reason.

Depending on how much stuff you carry, the weight of your golf bag will differ.

On average, a full golf bag weighs about thirty pounds.

You must take into consideration things like the material and design of your golf clubs.

If you happen to have steel shafts, those clubs are going to weigh more than graphite.

Many players type clubs have much heavier shafts than a beginner set of clubs.

At the same time, a player will usually carry a sleeve or two of golf balls, not two dozen.

These variations will affect the weight of your bag.

There are some great tips for keeping your golf bag a bit lighter.

Tips For Making Your Golf Bag Lighter

The most common issue with heavy golf bags is an abundance of unnecessary stuff in your bag.

When was the last time you did a good clean out of your golf bag?

If you found that you have 32 golf balls, 1000 tees, 12 old scorecards, two jackets, and some other random things, that is too much!

If you need to get an organizer for your garage where you can keep your golf belongings, this is a great idea.

Do not try and store all of your golf equipment in your golf bag at all times.

Even something as simple as a rangefinder adds more weight to your golf bag.

If you never walk the golf course and you aren’t that worried about weight, at least think of your back when you try and put your clubs in the car.

When golf bags start getting closer to that forty-fifty pound weight, you may risk injuring yourself.

These tips should help make the bag a bit lighter:

• Don’t carry more than eight golf balls in your bag; you can refill at the end of the round if needed
• You only need about seven or eight tees to get through a round of golf, next time you buy tees don’t put the whole bag in your golf bag
• Check for unnecessary clothing in your bag; chances are it has been in there a while, and you probably don’t need it
• If you have an umbrella on your golf bag, only bring it if it looks like there might be rain
• Ball markers, coins, and divot repair tools tend to accumulate in your golf bag, try to clean that out every once in a while, a metal divot repair tool can be heavy
• If you have golf clubs you never use, why are you carrying them around? Only bring golf clubs that you use each round
• If you don’t use your rangefinder, don’t bring it
• Only bring one water bottle and fill up after nine holes

How Much Does A PGA Tour Golf Bag Weigh?

PGA Tour players have huge golf bags.

These are called players bags or tour bags.

The pockets on these golf bags are large enough that some of the tour players’ families could travel with them in the pockets!

Some of the reason that these bags are so large is because of equipment, and some of it is because of advertising.

The large golf bags give players a great spot to stick the logo of a sponsor.

This helps the sponsor and the player.

The person that has to struggle is the caddy.

Caddies have a difficult job managing the emotions of their player but also managing the size of that bag.

A PGA Tour player’s bag is about fifty pounds.

Carrying a fifty-pound bag for eighteen holes is no easy task.

Especially when you consider the terrain that these caddies are asked to traverse.

PGA Tour players rarely lose a golf ball in the course of the round, so we know they aren’t filling the bag with golf balls.

Some players don’t want their caddies to be dealing with such a heavy bag, and they opt to go with something smaller.

Factors That Affect Weight Of Golf Bag

If you have ever wondered why your golf bag always feels so heavy, you may want to consider the following factors.

Graphite vs. Steel

Graphite clubs are considerably lighter than steel-shafted golf clubs .

When you compare a steel-shafted set of clubs with a graphite shafted, you will see several pounds of difference.

You will not want to change the golf clubs you play with just because of weight, but it is an important fact to have.

Number of Clubs

You can carry fourteen clubs with you during a round, but do you need fourteen?

When you say to your friends that you haven’t hit your four iron in six months, why are you still carrying it?

Chances are if you have not used a club in your last four rounds, you will not use it at all.

Let it stay at home in the garage, and the next time you want to give it a try again, throw it back in the bag.

Some golfers completely ignore the fourteen club rule and store every golf club they have ever owned in their bag.

This is pointless and will only cause you more trouble to lug around unnecessary equipment.

Golf Bag Components

When you purchased your golf bag, it likely came with a few different straps.

These straps are used to help you, depending on how you carry your golf bag.

If you never carry your golf bag, you can take the large X or Backpack strap off the bag.

It will only get in your way, and it is adding extra weight to your golf bag as well.

All you need is a simple shoulder strap if you don’t plan on walking and playing golf.

Some golf bags also have things like cooler compartments and umbrellas attached to them.

If you don’t see yourself using this equipment, don’t put it in your bag.

Just because golf balls are sold in a pack of twelve does not mean you have to keep all twelve in your bag.

Most golfers can get through a round of golf with less than three golf balls.

If you feel the need to keep six golf balls in your bag, that is fine, even nine is ok.

Most golfers would be shocked that if they counted the golf balls in their bag at the moment, it is probably a number higher than twenty.

Twenty golf balls are a significant amount of unnecessary weight in your golf bag.

Training Aids

Training aids are becoming more and more popular.

Golfers use them to try and improve their games.

Practicing with a training aid on the driving range or putting green is great, but you don’t need to keep it in your golf bag.

You would be surprised by the contraptions that golfers find in their golf bag.

These all add up to extra weight in the bag, and you can’t use them on the course anyway.

Keep them in your car or your locker at the club, but don’t fill your bag with this type of equipment.

The weight of a golf bag becomes essential for three reasons.

The first is that if you are walking and carrying your clubs, you must be mindful of the weight you are carrying.

Second is that even if you play cart golf, you don’t want to injure a shoulder by trying to lift and maneuver your clubs.

Last you must have a general idea of what your golf bag weighs when it comes to travel.

Most people have a much larger golf bag than they need and store way more gear than they should.

Get yourself an excellent trunk organizer or garage organizer to keep your extra golf equipment.

There is no need to store everything you own in your golf bag.  

Related Posts

About Brittany Olizarowicz

Britt Olizarowicz started playing golf at the age of 7. She played Division 1 College golf at St.Johns University, where she won two tournaments at the collegiate level. After college Britt went on to become a Class A PGA Professional. Her love for the game spans almost her entire life. Today Britt loves sharing her knowledge of golf through her writing. After all, to teach the game of golf, you must first have a love for it.

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• Travel advice
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Golf baggage allowances

Understanding that baggage policies for golfing equipment can differ based on factors like airline, travel class, bag size, weight, and destination, we recognise the importance of clear and accessible information for your next golfing trip.

To provide clarity and ease of planning for you, Purple Parking has compiled a comprehensive golf baggage allowance table which compares the golf baggage policies of several major airlines. This valuable resource is designed to effortlessly guide you through understanding and budgeting for any additional costs associated with your holiday.

*All prices and information correct at time of writing and are subject to change.

Best Airport Parking for Golfers

Worried about having to lug your golf bag from the car park to your airport terminal? Not keen on having to hop on a transfer bus with all your golf gear? If you're off on a golfing holiday, we recommend opting for our exclusive Meet and Greet Parking available at most major UK airports.

Meet and Greet Parking avoids the hassle of having to try and hunt down a parking space at a car park far away from the terminal, and instead means you can be greeted at the terminal by a driver who will park your car for you. Upon your return, you will be met at the terminal with your car ready and waiting for you!

What's even better is if you pre-book, you can make savings of up to 70% . Find out more here.

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Sports equipment

Find out if you can bring your sporting equipment on board with you, check it in to your baggage allowance or if you need to take extra steps before you travel. From golf clubs to pedal bikes, diving equipment and more, explore how we can help make your journey as easy as possible.

Looking for something else? Visit our baggage hub

No matter if you’re a golfer, a rock climber, deep sea diver or snowboarder, there’s plenty of space for your weird and wonderful items. Just tell us you are bringing your sporting equipment by using our online chat via our contacts page as soon as you have booked your flight.

If you’ve already used your free checked baggage allowance, you may have to pay to put extra bags in the hold.

Anything heavier or larger than the maximum checked baggage dimensions must be shipped as cargo.

What sports equipment are you bringing?

Need to go over the weight and size limits? No problem. Heavy and big items can be shipped as cargo .

The only exception is a pedal bike box, which can be taken as checked baggage. Just let us know you’re bringing it beforehand.

We know how precious and valuable your equipment is, so make sure it’s packed securely and that you have adequate travel insurance.

Some sharp, electrical or potentially dangerous items aren’t allowed on board the aircraft. It’s best to contact us to check or have a look at our list of restricted items.

You can take non-motorised, non-electric pedal bicycles or push bikes in a bicycle cover or box on our flights. They count as one item of your checked baggage allowance.

If you’re on our Economy Basic fare, which has no hold baggage allowance, or you’ve already used your free  checked baggage allowance , you’ll have to pay to put your bike and container in the hold as an  extra checked bag .

What size bike can you bring?

We need to know how big your bike container is and how much it weighs.

Your bike can be transported in a hard-shell box or padded bike bag up to 190 x 95 x 65 cm (75 x 37.5 x 25.5 in).

A bike box or bag is considered an oversize or out-of-gauge bag. You’ll need to check your bike in and drop it off at the airport out-of-gauge bag drop at least 90 minutes before your flight departs for it to be more likely to travel with you.

Let us know you’re bringing your bike

As soon as you’ve booked your flight, let us know that you’re bringing your bike by using the online chat on our  Help page .

Please do this as soon as possible, as some flights are very popular with cyclists. Your bike is more likely to travel with you if  you tell us  in advance, and at least three days (more than 72 hours) before you fly.

Travelling with your bike

Please ensure your bike is clearly labelled with your details on the outside and inside of its cover or box, preferably fastened to the bike frame.

Clothes and other personal items must not be packed in your bike cover or box. This may cause delays during security screening or mean your bike cannot travel. 

You can take most items as part of your checked baggage allowance if it’s packed in a recognised kit bag and doesn’t exceed the maximum size and weight for checked baggage. 

Accepted items are: 

• Scuba regulator
• Tank harness
• Tank pressure gauge (pressure-sensitive devices may need special packaging; refer to the manufacturer for advice)
• Buoyancy control device
• Weight belt
• Cylinder tank 
• Diving lamps 

Cylinder tanks must be empty and presented at check-in for inspection. Spear guns and harpoons must be packed separately

If you’re taking a diving lamp, please  contact us  at least 24 hours before you travel to get approval. Please remove the bulb or fuse and pack it separately from the power source.

Golfing equipment packed in a protective golf bag, or hard case, can be taken as one item of your checked baggage allowance if your ticket includes baggage in the hold.

Your golf bag may include items such as a set of golf clubs, a golf umbrella, a dozen balls, golf tees and a pair of golf shoes.

As it is larger than our standard checked bag, it is considered an  oversize or out-of-gauge bag . You’ll need to get to the airport early to check the golf bag in and drop it off at the airport out-of-gauge bag drop at least 90 minutes before your flight departs for it to be more likely to travel with you.

If you're travelling on our Economy Basic fare, which has no hold baggage allowance, or you’ve already used your  free checked baggage allowance, you’ll have to pay to put your golf bag in the hold as an  extra checked bag . The best price is available online, before you get to the airport where the full charge will be applied.

If you carry your golf umbrella or any large umbrella or parasol separately, it will need to be checked in and will count as an item of checked baggage. You may have to pay a fee if you are over your free baggage weight or number allowance.

Let us know you’re bringing your golf bag

As soon as you’ve booked your flight,  let us know that you’re bringing your golf bag by using the online chat on our Help page. 

Please do this as soon as possible, as some flights are very popular with golfers. Your golf bag is more likely to travel with you if you tell us in advance and at least three days (more than 72 hours) before you fly.

You can travel with firearms as checked baggage under very specific conditions.

You must  contact us  at least 72 hours before you fly to request approval and to comply with any government embargoes and restrictions. If you don’t contact us, your equipment won’t be allowed on board. Read more about  firearms requirements .

You can take skiing or snowboarding equipment as part of your checked baggage so long as the bag is within 190 x 75 x 65cm.

Skis and snowboards must be packed in a protective bag and can be in the same bag as your boots or clothes. 

If you pack your boots separately from your skis or snowboard, your boot bag can be carried as your larger piece of hand baggage if it's within the correct dimensions . If it isn't, it must be checked in and will count as an extra checked bag.

For safety reasons you can’t board the aircraft wearing ski boots.

Let us know you are bringing your snow sports bag

As soon as you have made your booking,  let us know that you’re bringing your snow sport bag, especially if you know that you are on a popular snow sport route. Your snow sport bag is more likely to travel with you if you tell us in advance and at least three days (more than 72 hours) before you fly. 

A snow sport bag is an oversize or out-of-gauge bag so check your snow sport bag in and drop it off at the out-of-gauge baggage belt no later than 90 minutes before your flight departs so it is more likely to travel with you. 

You can take short surfboards and small kayaks with paddles in a protective bag as part of your checked baggage as long as the packed bag is under 190cm in length. Clothes and other personal items must not be packed in with your equipment.

Larger surfboards, kayaks, canoes and paddles need to be booked in as  cargo .

A sports racket for games such as tennis, squash or badminton is permitted as hand baggage if carried in a slim protective case, as one of your two pieces of hand baggage allowed in the cabin, providing:

• The case contains a maximum of two rackets and is under 80 cm long, 45 cm wide and 10 cm deep. 
• No additional items, such as balls, shuttlecocks or clothing, are packed in the racket case.
• The racket case is stowed on top of other items in the overhead lockers to prevent damage and maximise space.

If you carry three or more rackets, these must be packed in a protective bag and checked into the hold as part of your checked baggage allowance.

Be aware that certain sports items are not permitted as hand baggage through airport security points at some airports, so check local requirements.

Other sporting items such as collapsed fishing rods, billiard/snooker/pool cues, hockey sticks or traditional skateboard decks cannot be carried as part of your hand baggage due to their length, as they are typically over the 56cm length limit of  items in the cabin .  These sporting items must always be carried in the hold, so it’s best to pack them in a protective bag or pack them in your suitcase.  

Each piece packed separately counts as an extra item towards your total baggage allowance and you may be charged for extra bags if you exceed your free hand or checked baggage allowance.

Electric skateboards are not permitted on our aircraft at all, either in the cabin or in the hold, due to the unstable nature of  lithium batteries .

Travelling on partner airlines

If your flight number begins with anything other than ‘BA’ (e.g. AA123456X), you’re flying with one of our partners and your baggage allowances may be different.

If a journey with connecting flights includes ‘BA’ and other airline codes, your baggage allowance is generally determined by the airline that operates the longest flight in your itinerary.

Please note: SUN-AIR: You can take 1 checked bag up to 90 x 75 x 43cm (35.5 x 29.5 x 16in) and 23kg (51lb).

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Emirates Airlines Golf Bag Policy (Fees, Weight Limits & Full Guide)

• by Golf Reviews Guide Team
• News and Features
• March 9, 2024 March 9, 2024

When traveling with Emirates Airlines, as a golfer you will need to know the golf bag policy. We’ve got a handy and complete guide of everything you need to know.

Golfers can rest easy knowing that the airline has a specific policy in place to accommodate needs when traveling with your clubs and golf equipment and gear .

Here’s a breakdown of the full Emirates Airlines Golf Bag Policy to ensure you’re well-prepared for your next golfing vacation.

Emirates Airlines Golf Bag Policy Overview

Emirates permits passengers to include golf bags as part of their checked baggage allowance.

The airline’s generous baggage policy generally allows for the transport of a golf bag in addition to the standard checked luggage, provided the combined weight does not exceed the allowed limit based on the ticket’s fare type and travel class.

Economy passengers typically have a baggage allowance of up to 30 kg (depending on the fare type), while Business and First Class passengers may have allowances of 40 kg and 50 kg, respectively.

For most flights, the standard checked baggage size limit is 150 cm (59 inches) in total dimensions (length + width + height).

However, for sports equipment, Emirates often provides some flexibility, but it’s essential to stay within reasonable size and weight limits to avoid extra charges.

If your golf bag exceeds the standard dimensions but does not surpass the maximum dimensions allowed for sports equipment, it may still be accepted without an oversized baggage fee.

Yet, if the golf bag, when packed, goes beyond these limits in either weight or size, it could be subject to additional charges.

• RELATED: American Airlines Golf Clubs Policy

Flying With Golf Clubs On Emirates

Flying with golf clubs on Emirates Airlines is straightforward, thanks to their accommodating baggage policy for sports equipment.

Golf equipment can usually be included as part of your standard checked baggage allowance. This means if the total weight of your baggage, including the golf clubs, does not exceed your allowance, there are no additional fees.

While it’s not always mandatory, informing Emirates at the time of booking or well before your travel date that you’ll be flying with golf clubs can help ensure a smooth experience. This allows the airline to be prepared for space and handling requirements.

Your golf clubs should be securely packed in a suitable golf bag. Consider using a hard case for extra protection against damage.

Allow extra time at the airport for check-in and baggage drop, especially when traveling with oversized items like golf clubs.

Consider purchasing travel insurance and golf insurance that covers sports equipment, providing extra peace of mind in case of damage or loss.

If you’re traveling to a destination with inclement weather, keep in mind that delays can affect the handling of your baggage. Protective packing is even more critical in these cases.

• RELATED: Delta Airlines Golf Clubs Policy

Do Golf Clubs Count As A Checked Bag Emirates?

Yes, golf clubs count as checked baggage. Passengers are allowed to include their golf clubs as part of their standard checked baggage allowance.

This means if the total weight of your checked baggage, including your golf clubs, does not exceed your baggage allowance based on your fare type and travel class, you will not incur additional charges.

The baggage allowance varies depending on your ticket’s fare type and the cabin class you’re flying in:

• Economy Class passengers generally have a baggage allowance of up to 30 kg, depending on the fare type.
• Business Class passengers have a 40 kg allowance.
• First Class passengers are allowed up to 50 kg.

For flights to and from the Americas, and flights originating in Africa, Emirates applies a piece concept, where passengers are allowed a specific number of pieces of luggage, each up to a certain weight and size.

How Much Does Emirates Charge For Golf Clubs?

Whether there’s an additional cost to bring a golf bag on Emirates flights largely depends on your overall baggage situation.

If your golf bag causes your total checked luggage to exceed the weight or piece allowance for your ticket class and route, then you might be charged an additional fee.

If the golf bag, along with any other checked luggage, stays within the weight or piece limits of your baggage allowance, there should be no extra cost.

Emirates’ baggage allowance varies by fare type and travel class, with economy class typically allowed up to 30 kg, and business and first class passengers allowed 40 kg and 50 kg, respectively.

If including your golf bag causes your checked baggage to exceed your allowance, you will incur extra baggage charges.

These charges depend on the route and can be substantial, so it’s worth calculating the potential cost in advance using the baggage calculator available on the Emirates website.

Are Golf Clubs Considered Oversized on Emirates?

On Emirates, whether a golf bag is considered oversized depends on its dimensions and total weight when packed with your golf equipment.

Emirates has specific baggage policies that include size and weight limits for both checked luggage and sports equipment.

For most flights, the standard checked baggage size limit is 150 cm (59 inches) in total dimensions (length + width + height). However, for sports equipment, Emirates often provides some flexibility, but it’s essential to stay within reasonable size and weight limits to avoid extra charges.

If your golf bag and other checked luggage combined exceed your total weight allowance, excess baggage fees will apply.

Do I Need A Special Bag To Fly With Golf Clubs?

While you do not need a “special” bag per se to fly with golf clubs, airlines, including Emirates Airlines, highly recommend using a hard-sided golf travel bag for better protection of your clubs during transit.

The key considerations when selecting a bag for flying with golf clubs are protection, durability, and airline requirements.

Protection and Durability

Hard-Sided Golf Travel Bags

These offer the highest level of protection against impacts, compressions, and the general handling that occurs with checked luggage. They are designed to protect your clubs from being damaged and are the preferred choice for air travel.

Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bags

These are lighter and often more convenient to store than hard-sided cases. Many soft-sided bags offer substantial padding and reinforced areas to protect the club heads.

While they may not provide as much protection as hard cases, high-quality soft-sided bags are suitable for air travel, especially if they are further secured with a stiff arm (a telescopic pole that extends above the height of the longest club to absorb impacts).

Airline Requirements

Airlines generally have guidelines for the size and weight of the golf bag but do not specify the type of golf bag you must use.

For Emirates, the dimensions of the bag can be up 150 cm (59 inches) in total dimensions (length + width + height)

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Best Golf Bags: What to Look For in a Golf Bag

Si golf x pga tour superstore | aug 27, 2024.

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Golf bags buying guide: what to look for in a golf bag.

Choosing the best golf bag is essential for any golfer looking to enhance their performance and enjoyment on the course. With various types of golf bags available, each catering to different needs and preferences, it's crucial to understand what sets them apart. "One of the things that I feel is the most important with golf bags is, what type of golfer are you?" says Will McNaughton, a PGA TOUR Superstore Merchandising expert. "Are you going to ride all the time? Are you going to walk? Those things are so important because that's the first step." This golf bag buying guide will help you navigate the world of golf bags and find the best one for your game. 

Types of Golf Bags

Understanding the different types of golf bags and their features can help you make an informed choice before shopping.

Carry Golf Bags Carry bags are lightweight and designed for golfers who prefer walking the course. These bags are easy to carry and ideal for golfers who like to have all their essentials without the bulk.

• Lightweight : Easy to carry, ideal for walking the course.
• Ample Storage: More storage than Sunday bags, suitable for carrying additional gear.
• Comfortable Straps : Designed to be easy on the shoulders for long walks.

Best Carry Golf Bags

• Titleist Players 4 Carbon Stand Bag: Lightweight and durable, perfect for quick rounds. It offers enough storage for essentials while maintaining a minimalist design.

• Sun Mountain 2.5+ Carry Bag : Ultra-lightweight with essential storage for minimalist golfers. Its streamlined design and comfortable straps make it an ideal choice for those who enjoy walking the course.

Sunday Golf Bags Sunday bags are ultra-lightweight and designed for golfers who prefer walking the course, especially for quick rounds or practice sessions. These bags focus on minimalism and simplicity.

• Ultra-Lightweight : Easy to carry, even lighter than regular carry bags.
• Minimal Storage: Perfect for quick rounds or practice sessions, holding just the essentials.

Best Sunday Golf Bags

• Cobra Ultralight Sunday Bag : Ultra-lightweight and perfect for minimalist golfers. Its compact design and comfortable shoulder strap make it an excellent choice for those who prefer walking the course and carrying only the essentials.

• Callaway Hyper-Lite Zero Sunday Bag : Ultra-lightweight and designed for the minimalist golfer. Its compact frame and comfortable strap system make it perfect for walking the course with ease, carrying only the essentials.

Stand Golf Bags  

Stand golf bags come with built-in legs that allow them to stand upright on the course. These golf bags are suitable for golfers who enjoy walking but need more storage than a carry bag offers.

• Built-In Legs : Allows the bag to stand upright on the course.
• Balanced Storage: Offers more space than carry bags but remains portable.
• Great for Walkers: Ideal for golfers who prefer walking but need extra storage.

Best Stand Bags

• Callaway Fairway 14 Stand Bag : Offers great balance, stability, and ample storage. This bag is designed for golfers who want the convenience of a stand bag with the storage capacity of a cart bag.

• TaylorMade FlexTech Stand Bag : Known for its easy-to-use stand system and comfortable straps. It provides excellent organization and portability, making it ideal for walking golfers.

Cart Golf Bags  

Cart golf bags are heavier and designed to be used on a golf cart. They offer more storage and features than carry or stand golf bags, making them ideal for golfers who prefer riding over walking. 

• Designed for Carts : Heavier, meant to be used on a golf cart.
• Ample Storage : More pockets and compartments than carry or stand bags.
• Convenient Features : Easy access to clubs and accessories while riding.

Best Cart Bags

• Sun Mountain C-130 Cart Bag : Excellent storage options and durability, perfect for cart use. It features a range of pockets, including cooler pockets and valuables pockets, to keep your gear organized.

• Callaway Org 14 Cart Bag : Features ample pockets, sturdy construction, and easy access while on a cart. This bag is designed for golfers who need plenty of storage and prefer riding over walking.

Travel Golf Bags  

Travel bags are designed for transporting golf clubs during travel. These golf bags offer protection and convenience, ensuring that your clubs arrive safely at your destination.

• Protection : Designed to keep clubs safe during travel.
• Convenience : Makes transporting golf equipment easy.
• Durability : Built to withstand the rigors of travel.

Best Travel Bags

• Club Glove College Traveler Travel Bag : Durable and designed for collegiate golfers, this travel bag offers superior protection for your clubs. Its robust construction and ample storage make it ideal for golfers who frequently travel with their equipment, ensuring your clubs arrive safely at your destination.

• Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Bag : Provides easy maneuverability and excellent protection. Its innovative design makes traveling with your clubs hassle-free.

Walking the Course For golfers who enjoy walking the course, using a push cart can make the experience more enjoyable. "Push carts have become more popular since COVID than it's ever been. That means people are walking the golf course, which is great " notes McNaughton. When using a push cart, it's essential to ensure that the bag fits securely. "Does it slide in correctly? Does the bag slide around? There's nothing worse than having a bag in there that doesn't have to keep cinching back up because it falls off the cart a little bit" . Therefore, a bag that fits well on a push cart, without sliding or needing constant adjustments, enhances your walking experience.

Best Push Carts

Clicgear Model 4.0 : Known for its robust design and ease of use, the Clicgear Model 4.0 offers excellent maneuverability and storage. Its compact fold and sturdy construction make it a favorite among golfers who prefer walking the course with a push cart.

Bag Boy Nitron Auto-Open Cart : Featuring a one-step open mechanism, the Bag Boy Nitron provides quick and easy setup. It offers ample storage, a lightweight frame, and smooth handling, making it ideal for golfers looking for convenience and functionality in their push cart.

Key Golf Bag Features

When choosing a golf bag, it's essential to focus on specific features that will enhance your experience on the course:

Weight and Portability  

The weight of a golf bag is a critical factor, especially for golfers who prefer walking the course. Lightweight materials and ergonomic designs can make a significant difference in comfort and ease of use. For cart golf bags, weight is less of an issue, but portability features like handles and straps are still important.

Storage and Pockets  

Adequate storage ensures that you can carry everything you need without feeling cluttered or disorganized on the course. Look for different types of pockets, such as cooler pockets and valuables pockets, to store clubs, balls, and personal items.

Durability and Materials  

The quality of materials used in a golf bag, such as nylon or leather, affects its durability and lifespan. Investing in a bag made from high-quality materials ensures that it will withstand regular use and the elements.

Comfort and Straps  

Comfortable straps and handles are crucial, particularly for golfers who carry their golf bags. Features like padded straps and dual-strap systems help distribute weight evenly, reducing strain on your shoulders and back.

Additional Features  

Extras like umbrella holders, towel rings, and rain covers can add convenience and comfort to your golfing experience. These features may seem minor, but they can make a big difference on the course.

Final Tips for Choosing the Right Golf Bag

Choosing the right golf bag involves assessing your specific needs and preferences. Here are some tips to help you make the best decision:

Assess Your Needs  

Determine what type of golf you play most often (walking vs. riding) and evaluate how much storage you need based on your typical gear and accessories.

Consider Your Budget  

Finding a golf bag that fits your budget without compromising on essential features is important. There are quality options available at various price points, so consider what features are most important to you and choose accordingly.

Test Before You Buy  

Trying out bags in-store can help you check for comfort and fit. Make sure the bag you choose feels comfortable to carry or fits well on your cart.

Read Reviews and Get Recommendations  

Research and consider other golfers’ experiences to make an informed decision. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations can provide valuable insights into the performance and durability of different bags.

Choosing the right golf bag is crucial for enhancing your performance and enjoyment on the course. Visit PGA TOUR Superstore to explore a wide range of golf bags and find the one that suits your needs. Take advantage of expert advice and fitting services available at the store to ensure you make the best choice.

SI GOLF X PGA TOUR SUPERSTORE

Related Airlines

• Germanwings Golf Clubs Policy 2023
• Wizz Air Golf Clubs Policy 2023
• Ryanair Golf Clubs Policy 2023
• jet2.com Golf Clubs Policy 2023

EasyJet Golf Bag Fees and Policies

EasyJet accepts Golf equipment as small sporting equipment.

EASYJET SMALL SPORTS EQUIPMENT / GOLF FEE - limit of 20 kg weight allowance Paid Online - £37 At Airport - £47 [AMZ asins='B00CUEFDSS,B001P9IA0C,B09BZ2HB4T,B002LZA8PY']

If purchasing standard baggage and sports equipment, the exact distribution of weight between baggage items doesn't matter, subject to the maximum weights (32 kg per item) for health and safety reasons.

If exceeding your weight allowance, you can purchase an extra weight allowance for a cost of 12 GBP per 3 KG.

We recommend protecting your golf clubs with a BagBoy Backbone Travel Support Rod or a CaddyDaddy North Pole Golf Club Protector for extra protection during handling and avoid your clubs from getting bent or crushed.

Comments / Discussion / Questions

Let us know your personal experience or ask any questions here in the comments section below. You will need to login using your Emote or Google account. Be sure to upvote any helpful comments for other travellers preparing for their trip :-)

Golf Clubs Related Lists and Articles

Carry-on Luggage Size and Weight Limits by Airline (2024)

Text Callout : Key Takeaways - Carry-on Luggage Sizes

If you're traveling with carry-on luggage and/or a personal item , you'll need to adhere to size restrictions in the same way you do with checked bags . These rules include the dimensions of your carry-on bag and, in some scenarios, even the weight.

What size luggage is a carry-on?

While carry-on luggage sizes can vary by airline, several major carriers go by these dimensions.

Airlines calculate carry-on luggage size measurements using two methods:

• Height by width by depth:  Most – but not all – airlines measure bags by inches or centimeters using this formula: height by width by depth, such as 22 x 14 x 9 inches. (Note: The dimensions listed below, which are given according to that formula, may differ slightly from the way each individual airline formats its size requirements.)
• Linear inches:  A few airlines have linear inch restrictions for carry-on baggage, meaning the airline gives one number for the total of all three dimensions. As long as the combined height, width and depth don't exceed that number, you're in the clear.

Can a 24-inch bag be a carry-on?

Yes, a 24-inch bag can be used as a carry-on suitcase when flying with the following airlines: Frontier, Southwest and Sun Country . However, if you're shopping for new carry-on luggage, it's best to opt for something that meets the requirements for most major airlines (22 x 14 x 9 inches or smaller).

Is there a weight limit for carry-on bags?

Most major domestic airlines do not impose a weight limit on carry-on bags; however, several international airlines have weight restrictions for carry-on luggage and, in some cases, personal items.

Carry-on vs. personal item: What's the difference?

A carry-on bag is typically stored in a plane's overhead bin, while a personal item should fit under the seat in front of you. Most airlines allow economy passengers to bring one carry-on and one personal item – such as an underseat bag – at no extra cost.

Carry-on luggage sizes by airline

Click on the major domestic and international airlines below to see their carry-on luggage size restrictions in inches for economy passengers – and note that any handles and wheels on your bags count toward size limits as well.

Category Navigation Box Enhancement : Table of Contents - Travel - Carry-on Luggage Sizes

Alaska Airlines

See all Alaska Airlines carry-on policies.

Allegiant Air

The fee is often around $20 if you pay for your carry-on baggage at the time of booking; it costs a hefty $45 if you add a carry-on bag later – and up to $75 at the gate.

See all Allegiant Air carry-on policies.

American Airlines

The above rules also apply to basic economy tickets.

See all American Airlines carry-on policies.

Delta Air Lines

Note that if you're flying to or from Beijing or Shanghai, there is a 22-pound weight limit for a carry-on; for Singapore, there is a 15-pound limit.

See all Delta Airlines carry-on policies.

Frontier Airlines

There are two instances where the carry-on bag fee is waived:

• You're an elite member of the  FRONTIER Miles rewards program .
• You bought a specialty ticket like the WORKS bundle.

Also note that carry-on bag fees, which typically start at around $30, depend on your destination, and that prices are cheapest if you add baggage when you make your booking. You'll pay more to add it later, especially if you do so at the airport. Sometimes it's actually cheaper to purchase a checked bag instead of a carry-on.

See all Frontier Airlines carry-on policies.

Hawaiian Airlines

See all Hawaiian Airlines carry-on policies.

If you booked a Blue Basic ticket, you're only permitted to bring a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you. If you bring a carry-on bag, you must pay $65 to check it at the gate (or up to $180 if you've already checked two other bags). This will change on Sept. 6, 2024, when JetBlue will begin offering one free carry-on bag to all Blue Basic customers, regardless of purchase date.

Currently, select customers with Blue Basic fares can bring carry-on bags for free. These include:

• Active U.S. military personnel
• Unaccompanied minors
• Customers flying to London

If you purchase a higher-class seat or if you reach Mosaic status on JetBlue's TrueBlue rewards program , you can also bring a carry-on bag for free on a Blue Basic ticket.

See all JetBlue carry-on policies.

Southwest Airlines

See all Southwest Airlines carry-on policies.

Spirit Airlines

Spirit's carry-on bag fees vary between flights, but they tend to start at around $25 to $30 for U.S. domestic flights. If you need to bring carry-on luggage, it's always cheapest to pay for it when you first book your flight. It will cost you more to add a bag afterward – and at least double the initial fee if you do it at the airport.

See all Spirit Airlines carry-on policies.

Sun Country Airlines

The Sun Country Airlines fee for a carry-on bag is around $30 if you pay for it when booking, or more if you add it later.

See all Sun Country carry-on policies.

United Airlines

There's one notable exception for carry-on baggage with United: Passengers with a basic economy ticket can only take one personal item on board – no carry-on bag. This policy applies to travelers flying basic economy domestically or between the U.S. and Canada. If you have a basic economy ticket and are going to Central or South America (including Mexico) or taking trans-Atlantic or trans-Pacific flights, you can bring a full-size carry-on bag.

See all United Airlines carry-on policies.

Aer Lingus' carry-on policy depends on where you're flying. For trans-Atlantic flights, you can bring one carry-on bag within the dimensions above, plus a small personal item for free. If you're flying within Europe on Aer Lingus, the rules are a bit different: You'll have to pay a fee to bring a carry-on with you on board, starting at 5.99 euros. However, you can check that same bag for free.

If you're flying Aer Lingus Regional (a service with smaller planes, flying mostly around Ireland and the U.K.), a smaller carry-on limit applies: 18.5 x 13 x 8 inches, with a weight limit of 15 pounds.

See all Aer Lingus carry-on policies.

All Aeroméxico customers can bring a standard carry-on bag and a personal item on board. Be careful with the weight limit, though: For international flights or basic fare flights within Mexico, these two items combined cannot weigh more than 22 pounds. So, if your carry-on bag weighs 15 pounds, for example, your personal item cannot be more than 7 pounds.

See all Aeroméxico carry-on policies.

While there's no weight limit for carry-on luggage, Air Canada says your carry-on bag should be light enough that it can easily be lifted into the overhead bin. Also note that airport purchases (for example, larger duty-free items) count toward your baggage limit.

See all Air Canada carry-on policies.

Note that both your personal item and carry-on bag (referred to as "hand baggage") combined must not weigh more than 26 pounds if you're traveling economy. The weight limit is 40 pounds for premium economy and other higher-class cabins.

See all Air France carry-on policies.

All Nippon Airways

A variety of personal items (think a handbag and umbrella) are permitted as long as they fit under the seat in front of you; this includes any items purchased at the airport.

See all All Nippon Airways carry-on policies.

British Airways

If airline staff put a yellow tag on your bag, it should be stored under the seat in front of you.

See all British Airways carry-on policies.

Cathay Pacific

Cathay Pacific has shifted from a weight allowance to a piece allowance, and this policy varies by itinerary. Passengers are generally permitted to bring one carry-on bag plus a small personal item (and assistive devices like a walking stick), but it's best to check your booking carefully to confirm the exact allowance. You're asked to check in any baggage that's too heavy to lift into the overhead compartment.

See all Cathay Pacific carry-on policies.

Since easyJet is a budget airline, standard fares only allow customers to bring one personal item (called a "small cabin bag") aboard for free. Fees for standard carry-on bags are between 5.99 and 32.99 British pounds, depending on your destination and when you add an extra bag to your reservation.

See all easyJet carry-on policies.

The above rules apply to all economy passengers except those traveling from Brazil, whose carry-on luggage can weigh up to 22 pounds. Emirates only allows economy passengers to bring one item on board; whether you bring a carry-on bag for the overhead bin or a personal item to tuck under the seat, this bag must comply with the size limits.

See all Emirates carry-on policies.

Be aware that the 22-pound weight limit applies to both your personal item and carry-on combined. If your flight was booked through Iberia but is operated by Vueling, similar rules apply, but the size limits for your carry-on bags are slightly smaller.

See all Iberia carry-on policies.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

If you're traveling on the cheaper Light ticket, you may be asked to check your carry-on bag for no extra cost, if space is limited.

See all KLM Royal Dutch Airlines carry-on policies.

See all Lufthansa carry-on policies.

The above rules apply to LowFare+ customers. Passengers who fly LowFare (comparable to Basic Economy fare) can only bring a personal item (underseat bag) measuring 15 x 11.5 x 7.5 inches.

See all Norwegian carry-on policies.

Qantas 

Economy passengers can opt to bring a nonrigid garment bag measuring 45 x 24 x 4 inches (or 73 linear inches) instead of a standard 22 x 14 x 9-inch carry-on bag. The above rules apply to all economy tickets and vary for higher classes on international and domestic flights with Qantas.

See all Qantas carry-on luggage policies.

Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways allows passengers to bring multiple personal items provided they fit under the seat in front of you. Unlike with other airlines, laptops and laptop bags do not count as personal items and must fit within your main hand baggage allowance. For tickets issued in Brazil, the carry-on weight limit is 22 pounds.

Be careful: Qatar doesn't accept carry-ons longer than 20 inches, which is shorter than many other airlines.

See all Qatar Airways carry-on policies.

Ryanair is a low-cost carrier, so unless you pay extra, you can only bring one small bag that fits under the seat in front of you, per the personal item guidelines above. To bring a larger carry-on bag, travelers need to purchase Ryanair's Priority & 2 Cabin Bags option, which typically costs between 6 and 32 euros depending on your destination.

See all Ryanair carry-on policies.

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Scandinavian Airlines

Most (but not all) Scandinavian Airlines fares allow you to bring one traditional carry-on bag, plus a personal item, which SAS calls an "underseat bag." There's one exception: Passengers traveling within Europe on the Go Light fare must pay for a larger carry-on bag. If you booked a Go Light ticket for intercontinental flights, a carry-on bag is included.

See all Scandinavian Airlines carry-on policies.

Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines has an unusual method for measuring carry-on bags – the dimensions of the bag must not add up to more than 45 linear inches total. For example, a bag measuring 15 x 15 x 15 inches would be suitable. All passengers can bring one bag of this size, plus a smaller personal item. The personal item, whose dimensions are specified above, does not count toward the 15-pound carry-on limit.

See all Singapore Airlines carry-on policies.

Turkish Airlines

See all Turkish Airlines carry-on policies.

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic lets every passenger bring a carry-on bag, including children younger than age 2. You can bring a bag weighing no more than 13 pounds for your child, in addition to a collapsible stroller and/or car seat. Each passenger is also allowed to bring a handbag or small backpack, an umbrella, a walking stick and airport purchases. Take note: Laptops do not count as personal items on Virgin Atlantic and should fit into your main carry-on bag. There's no specific size limit on the other personal items, but bags or airport purchases should fit under the seat in front of you.

See all Virgin Atlantic carry-on policies.

Note that the above rules apply to passengers who book a TimeFlex or Premium Fare, as well as anyone traveling with a child under age 2 and/or requiring special assistance at the airport.

See all Vueling carry-on policies.

If you purchase an UltraBasic fare, you are limited to a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you.

See all WestJet carry-on policies.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross is a seasoned traveler who packs just one carry-on bag and a personal item – even when adventuring with her toddler . She used her personal experience and research skills to put together this guide, and notes that even if your carry-on bag meets size restrictions, you may still need to check it at the gate because of limited space in the overhead bin. Luckily, it's still free.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Carry-on Backpacks
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on?
• What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

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