Golf Travel Bag: Buying Guide For The Perfect One

Golf travel bags are essential for protecting your gear while travelling. The two main options are hard case or soft case with padding. Hard cases are durable and protective but can be bulky, while soft cases are easier to pack and more versatile. Golf travel bags are available from a variety of brands, including Bag Boy, Club Glove, Samsonite, and Sun Mountain, and can be purchased from retailers such as Amazon, eBay, and Golf Galaxy. When choosing a golf travel bag, it is important to consider factors such as weight restrictions, the level of protection offered, and ease of packing.

Hard case or soft case with padding?

When it comes to choosing between a hard case or a soft case with padding for your golf travel bag, there are several factors to consider. Here are some detailed comparisons to help you make an informed decision:

Protection:

The level of protection offered by the bag is an important consideration. Hard cases provide a more structured layer of protection for your golf clubs. They are made of firm materials like polycarbonate or ABS plastic, which can withstand impacts and protect your equipment from damage. On the other hand, soft cases with padding are usually made of durable and flexible materials like nylon or polyester. While they may not offer the same level of rigidity as hard cases, soft cases with adequate padding can still provide sufficient protection for your golf clubs during travel.

Storage and Portability:

Hard cases tend to be bulkier and take up more storage space when not in use. They can be challenging to store, especially in small apartments or hotel rooms. In contrast, soft cases with padding are generally more compact and easier to store. They can often be folded or collapsed, making them convenient for storage and transportation.

Maneuverability:

Hard cases can be challenging to manoeuvre due to their rigid structure. They may be cumbersome to carry and may not fit easily into rental cars, trunks, or down hotel hallways. Soft cases with padding, on the other hand, are generally more flexible and easier to manoeuvre. They often come with wheels and handles, making them convenient to transport through airports, car rentals, and other travel situations.

Weight:

Hard cases tend to be heavier, which can be a consideration if you have weight restrictions when travelling. Soft cases with padding are usually lighter in weight, making them more convenient for travel, especially if you need to lift or carry your bag for extended periods.

Cost:

Hard cases often come with a higher price tag due to their sturdy construction. Soft cases with padding can vary in price, but you can often find good-quality options at more affordable price points.

Airline Policies:

It is important to check with your airline regarding their policies on golf travel bags. Some airlines may only cover damaged or lost golf clubs if they are transported in a hard case. Additionally, weight restrictions may apply, and soft cases with padding can help you stay within those limits.

In conclusion, both hard cases and soft cases with padding have their advantages and disadvantages. Hard cases offer superior protection but may fall short in terms of portability and storage. Soft cases with padding provide a balance between protection and convenience, making them a popular choice among frequent travellers, including professional and college golfers. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences, travel needs, and the level of protection you require for your golf equipment.

Know the airline's policies

When flying with a golf bag, it is important to know the policies of the airline you are travelling with. Each airline has its own set of rules and restrictions regarding golf bags and equipment, so it is crucial to be aware of these before your trip. Here is a detailed guide to help you navigate the policies of different airlines:

American Airlines:

American Airlines considers golf equipment, including golf bags, as standard checked baggage. There is a charge for all checked baggage, and the size is limited to the dimensions of a hard-sided golf case. The maximum weight allowance for golf equipment is 23 kg, and an overweight baggage fee of $100 will be applied for bags weighing 70 kg. American Airlines allows passengers to carry one golf bag containing a maximum of 14 golf clubs, 12 golf balls, and one pair of golf shoes without any additional charges if it falls within the weight limit.

Delta Airlines:

Delta Airlines allows passengers to check one golf bag as standard checked baggage per passenger, as long as the equipment is securely packed and meets the size requirements. Standard baggage charges are applicable. Golf bags weighing over 50 lbs will incur an excess weight fee. The airline specifies that items exceeding 115 linear inches in total dimensions will not be accepted. Delta's golf baggage allows for one golf bag, one set of golf clubs, golf balls, tees, and one pair of golf shoes.

Alaska Airlines:

Alaska Airlines accepts golf bags and equipment as part of checked baggage. Each bag must be packed in a soft or hard-sided case designed for golf equipment. On most flights, passengers can check up to two bags. If your golf equipment exceeds this allowance, a $150 fee will be charged for the third or additional bag. Golf equipment exceeding normal checked baggage weight and dimensions typically incurs a $30 fee for the first bag. Additionally, certain membership levels and cardholders can check their golf bags without additional fees. Alaska Airlines also provides a free bag tag to help identify your golf equipment if it gets lost.

Frontier Airlines:

Frontier Airlines accepts golf clubs as regular checked baggage, allowing one bag that may include golf clubs and shoes. The maximum weight for checked golf bags is 40 pounds (18.1 kilograms), and bags exceeding 100 pounds will not be accepted. The dimensions of the bag, including handles, wheels, and straps, should be less than 62 linear inches. Frontier Airlines has specific weight ranges with corresponding fees: $50 for bags weighing 41-50 pounds, $100 for bags weighing 51-100 pounds, and bags over 100 pounds will not be accepted.

JetBlue:

JetBlue considers a golf bag as a checked bag, provided it contains no more than 14 golf clubs, 3 golf balls, and one pair of golf shoes. Passengers can check in a golf bag without charge up to a weight of 23 kg (50 lbs). Any weight above this limit will be subject to an overweight baggage fee. JetBlue recommends packing golf equipment in a hard-sided container, but they also accept soft-sided bags without liability for damage.

Southwest Airlines:

Southwest Airlines accepts golf bags as checked bags when placed in a hard golf bag carrying case provided by the passenger, including clubs, balls, and shoes. They also conditionally accept hooded golf bags or soft-sided carrying cases. Overweight charges apply to golf bags exceeding 50 pounds, with a maximum weight allowance of 100 lbs. The maximum dimensions allowed for golf bags are 62 inches in total linear dimensions. Unlike other domestic US airlines, Southwest Airlines allows each passenger two free checked bags, and your golf bag counts towards this allowance if it is within the weight limit. However, overweight bags (over 50 lbs) will incur a $75 charge.

Sprint Airlines:

Sprint Airlines charges for golf equipment as standard checked baggage, with the first bag costing £36. Golf equipment is defined as one golf bag containing 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. To avoid additional fees, the maximum weight for your golf bag should not exceed 40 lbs (18 kg), and bags over 100 lbs will not be accepted. Sprint Airlines waives oversize charges on golf equipment, which is beneficial for golfers with oversized clubs.

United Airlines:

United Airlines permits one item of golf equipment per customer as a checked bag. This includes one golf bag containing one set of golf clubs, golf balls, and one pair of golf shoes. Golf bags measuring more than 62 total linear inches (158 cm) will not incur service charges for oversized checked bags. However, if your golf bag exceeds these dimensions, you may be charged for oversized baggage. Golf bags that do not contain golfing equipment will be subject to standard service charges for oversized and overweight checked bags.

General Tips:

Golf clubs and bags are generally not considered oversized luggage and are typically included in your personal baggage allowance. However, each airline has specific weight and height requirements, which can range from 60 to 120 inches. To avoid surprises at check-in, it is recommended to use a golf travel bag cover, either a soft case or a protective hard case, to safeguard your equipment. Additionally, booking ahead can help save on excessive golf bag charges, as some airlines charge higher fees for checking in golf bags at the airport. Most airlines allow you to pack golf shoes in your golf bag, saving space in your main luggage.

Travel with clean golf gear

Travelling with clean golf gear is an important aspect of golfing trips, as some countries will detain your clubs if they have excess dirt, mud, and grass on them. New Zealand and Australia, for example, have strict entrance requirements and will only permit near-spotless golf equipment.

To avoid this, it is recommended to clean your golf bag on a monthly basis or more frequently if you notice visible dirt, stains, or odours. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean your golf bag:

• Empty out your golf bag: Remove all items from the pockets, including golf clubs and any clothing.
• Vacuum the inside and pockets, or dry wipe: Use a portable hand vacuum to suction crumbs, grass cuttings, and other particles from the main pocket and side pockets. Alternatively, use a dry rag to wipe out the inside of your bag.
• Lightly wash the golf bag with water: Depending on the material of your golf bag, you can spray it with water from a bottle, run it under the sink, or blast it with a hose.
• Use a clean cloth to scrub with soap: Apply a dime-sized amount of dish soap to a clean cloth and lightly scrub stained or worn areas. Avoid using a deeply coloured cloth on a white golf bag.
• Rinse the golf bag with a hose or faucet: Spray bottles may not be strong enough for this step. Ensure you thoroughly rinse the bag to remove all soap.
• Scrub any lingering stains with a stain remover: If there are any stubborn stains, use a stain remover and a cloth or bristle brush to scrub them away.
• Dry the golf bag overnight, out of direct sunlight: Keep the bag contorted and ensure all pockets are open to allow for proper drying. Avoid placing the bag in direct sunlight, as this can cause the colour to fade.
• (Optional) Protect and shine your golf bag with a leather or vinyl protectant spray: This step will help lock in shine and block out future stains, wear, and tear.

In addition to cleaning your golf bag, it is also important to clean your golf clothing, gloves, headcovers, and shoes. Here are some tips for cleaning these items:

• Golf clothing: Machine wash golf clothing, separating synthetic fabrics from cottons and colours from whites and darks. Use a detergent specifically made for synthetic fabrics, and avoid traditional laundry detergent. Button up shirts and zip up zippers to prevent damage. Hang dry your clothing to prolong its lifespan.
• Golf gloves and headcovers: Brush off any removable dirt and debris, then fill a sink with warm water and mix with HEX Detergent. Pre-treat stains, then drag the glove through the water in a circular motion. Put the gloves on and wash your hands gently, then remove and place on a towel to air dry. Once dry, stretch the glove to its correct fit and form.
• Golf shoes: Use a deodorizing spray to keep your golf shoes smelling fresh.
• Golf hats: Place golf hats on the top and bottom racks of your dishwasher and wash on a normal cycle. Air dry instead of using the drying function. Pre-treat sweat stains with a stain remover.

Remove driver and fairway heads

When travelling with your golf clubs, removing the heads from your driver and fairway woods can be a good idea to prevent damage to your clubs. Here are some detailed steps and considerations to help you with this process:

Firstly, use a torque wrench to loosen the screw where the shaft meets the head of your driver and fairway woods. Torque wrenches usually come with the purchase of a driver. By removing the heads, you reduce the risk of the clubhead snapping off during transit. Make sure to take note of the settings of your clubs before removing the heads, so you can put them back correctly later.

Once the heads are removed, wrap them in a towel or their headcovers for added protection and place them in the large pocket on the side of your golf bag. This ensures they are safely stored and don't get lost. If your woods have non-detachable heads, consider using a Stiff Arm or a broom handle, which can help absorb any impact and prevent the shaft from snapping.

If you're concerned about finding space to store the heads, consider keeping them in your carry-on luggage, especially if you're flying and can keep them with you. This way, you can also keep an eye on them during your travels. Additionally, taking pictures of the club settings before removing the heads can be helpful for reassembling them correctly when you reach your destination.

Remember to pack the rest of your bag efficiently, using soft goods like towels, shirts, and shoes to fill any extra space. This will further protect your clubs and reduce the risk of damage during travel.

Identify your bag clearly

Clearly identifying your golf travel bag is important to ensure that your bag reaches you and doesn't get mixed up with someone else's. Here are some tips to help you identify your bag:

Use a Luggage Tag

Attach a luggage tag to your bag with your name, contact information, and any other relevant details. This is a standard way to identify luggage and can be easily noticed by handlers and other travellers.

Add a Distinctive Marker

Consider adding a colourful ribbon, a large sticker, or a unique strap to your bag. This will make your bag stand out from others and be easily recognisable.

Write Your Information on the Bag Itself

Use a permanent marker to write your name and contact information directly on the bag. You can write this on the handle or on a visible part of the bag's exterior. This ensures that your information stays with the bag even if a luggage tag is removed.

Include an ID Inside the Bag

Place a paper or card with your name, contact information, and a photo of the bag inside the bag itself. This adds an extra layer of identification in case the exterior markings are obscured or missed.

Take a Photo of Your Bag

Before travelling, take a clear photo of your bag, focusing on any distinctive features or markings. This will help you easily identify your bag at the airport or in case you need to report it missing.

Use a Tracking Device

Consider investing in a small tracking device, such as a GPS tracker or Bluetooth tag, that you can attach to your bag. This will allow you to locate your bag at any time and provide peace of mind during your travels.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your golf travel bag is clearly identified and reduce the risk of it being misplaced or mishandled.

Frequently asked questions