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how to carry golf clubs on a plane

by Mr. Ari Kovacek Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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How to Carry Golf Clubs on a Plane

  • Know the Rules. One of the most important is to read the fine-print to avoid any trouble. ...
  • Book a Direct Flight. As much as possible, fly direct when you are bringing golf clubs on a plane. ...
  • Pack Your Clubs Properly. Learning how to organize golf clubs in bag is essential when you are flying. ...
  • Use the Right Bag. ...
  • Include Identification. ...
  • Insure Your Baggage. ...

Airlines and government agencies prohibit you from taking a single golf club on a plane as hand luggage as it could be used as a weapon. You will therefore have to check in your golf club with the rest of your checked luggage but remember to protect it properly.Aug 17, 2018

Full Answer

How to protect your golf clubs from the airlines?

  • If your heads are detachable, unscrew them and stash them in the bag for the journey.
  • Grouping your clubs together and placing a sock on top of the heads makes for a tight bundle, reducing the stress placed on a single club.
  • You can also get an item such as a Stiff Arm to take the weight of anything set on the top of your bag. ...

More items...

Can I carry a golf stick on a plane?

It is easy to travel with a "golf stick" -- which is synonymous with "golf club" -- on an airline. Just don’t expect to carry your stick into the passenger compartment. Airlines and government agencies have strict rules against allowing golf sticks as carry-on items.

How to fly with golf clubs?

Part 1 Part 1 of 2: Packing Your Clubs

  1. Pay attention to fees and weight limits for checked luggage. ...
  2. Wrap the shafts of the clubs to protect them. Packing your golf bag properly is crucial for minimizing damage to your clubs, as they may bang around as they ...
  3. Protect the heads of your golf clubs. ...
  4. Put your clubs in a hard-shell case for maximum protection. ...

More items...

How to regrip golf clubs at home without a vise?

The List:

  • Hook Blade – you’ll need this to remove your grips. You can purchase one for just over $8 here.
  • Utility Knife – this will help remove the tape from your shafts. You can purchase one for roughly $10 here.
  • Regripping Kit – This is the bestselling kit on Amazon and will get the job done. ...
  • Grips – You can’t forget the main ingredient! ...

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Do you need a special bag to fly with golf clubs?

Airlines treat golf clubs like any other checked luggage as long as they're properly stored and tightly stowed. You won't be charged extra just to bring them on board. Indeed, some airlines will allow your bag as carry-on luggage so long as it weighs less than 50 pounds.

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

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.

How do you protect your golf clubs when flying?

To protect your golf clubs when flying, use extra golf towels, bubble wrap, or packing material to take up the extra space. Weave these between the club shafts to ensure they don't rub together in transit.

Is a golf bag considered a checked bag?

Golf equipment is accepted on all flights. There is no additional charge or oversized fee for golf bags as long as they are within weight limitations. A golf bag will count as one of your checked bags. Please note: all equipment should be packed in a hard-sided container.

Is it better to ship or fly with golf clubs?

You can track your bag all the way to its destination, and perhaps best of all, Ship Sticks insures your golf clubs for $1,000 in damages at no extra cost. (For those who have checked clubs at an airport gate, you may recall signing a form that releases the airline from responsibility for lost or damaged clubs.

How much does a full set of golf clubs weigh?

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.

Can I bring a golf club head on a plane?

Airlines and government agencies prohibit you from taking a single golf club on a plane as hand luggage as it could be used as a weapon.

How do you fly with a golf bag?

Tips for Traveling with your Golf ClubsTry to get a non-stop flight. ... Get a durable, well-made travel bag. ... If you use a soft-sided bag, don't forget to pack a golf club protection device. ... Don't forget that golf bags are considered “oversized check-in”. ... Add some personal ID marking to your bag.More items...•

Are golf clubs oversized luggage?

Read the fine print. Most airlines treat golf clubs as standard luggage, meaning there's a weight limit (usually 50 pounds) but no oversize baggage fee.

Do golf bags fly free?

It may be only a matter of time before this colorful carrier caves, but for now, your first two checked bags -- including golf bags in travel cases are free, round-trip, as long as they weigh less than 50 pounds.

How many golf balls can you bring on a plane?

Battison: But if we have an airliner, we do have those seats that can't hold the golf balls. Josaphat: 56,784 cubic feet divided by 12 cubic feet. That total answer would be 4,732 golf balls.

Know the Rules

One of the most important is to read the fine-print to avoid any trouble. The rules can vary from one airline to another. Most of the time, the terms are stated in your ticket, so make sure that you take the time to read.

Book a Direct Flight

As much as possible, fly direct when you are bringing golf clubs on a plane. It can be more expensive, but the cost is justifiable. It is not only fast and convenient, but it also minimizes the chances of losing your golf clubs.

Pack Your Clubs Properly

Learning how to organize golf clubs in bag is essential when you are flying. It is not as simple as putting them in a bag. One of the most important is to wrap the shafts, which will protect them. You can wrap the shaft and heads using towels. However, if you want to minimize weight of your baggage, you can use bubble wrap instead.

Use the Right Bag

While it might seem basic, a lot of people ignore the importance of having the right bag. Golf clubs are expensive, so they deserve a high-quality bag. It should be sturdy enough to withstand flying. From the fabric to the stitches, make sure that the construction is second to none.

Include Identification

While it is mandatory for airlines to include a luggage tag on your golf bag, do not just rely on it. We recommend choosing a bag with a slot for an identification card. Include your name, contact details, and address or hotel. This way, it is easy for the bag to find its way to you if ever it is lost during transit.

Insure Your Baggage

A lot of people are hesitant in booking flight insurance because of the additional cost. It can be expensive, especially during international flights. However, it is a necessary expense for your peace of mind.

Can you bring your own golf clubs on a plane?

The answer to this question is no. You can not bring a golf club on board an airplane. According to the TSA website, clubs are prohibited on board as a carry on item.

Do airlines charge extra for golf bags?

Most airlines do not charge extra for golf travel bags, as long as you remain within the standard weight limits. Delta, United, American Airlines and other major airlines allow one golf bag per passenger as checked luggage.

Can you carry on a golf putter?

No. Airlines do not allow golf putters on airplanes – as carry-ons, that is. Golf clubs on airplanes may be used as weapons, so they are prohibited. Likewise, any sporting equipment that could be used as a weapon, such as a putter or a baseball bat, cannot be carried on a plane.

Can I pack clothes in my golf bag?

You can pack whatever you like in your golf bag, as long as there is room. But, overpacking may lead to potential damage to your clubs and other equipment in the bag. If you have room, clothes can act as a nice buffer between the clubs to cushion them as they move around during your flight.

What is the first step to flying with golf clubs?

Buying a golf bag is the first step to flying with golf clubs. But it’s not the last. Now, you need to ensure that you pack everything smartly and securely.

What is the best cover for a golf bag?

These will protect your golf bag and clubs from damage during air travel. The CaddyDaddy Golf CDX-10 is a great option.

How to cover shafts in golf bag?

Use bubble wrap or towels to cover the shafts that stick out of the golf bag. Bubblewrap is a cheap and reliable way to give your shafts some padding. To ensure the bubble wrap stays on, seal it with some durable tape. Place a stiff arm tool in your bag. A stiff arm is an extendable handle with a large circular end.

Can I Take My Golf Clubs on a Plane?

Almost every airline treats golf clubs as standard luggage. TSA generally permits golf bags as checked luggage but not as carry-on.

How Much Does It Cost to Bring Golf Clubs on a Plane?

Airlines treat golf clubs like any other checked luggage as long as they're properly stored and tightly stowed. You won't be charged extra just to bring them on board.

How to Bring Golf Clubs on a Plane

The airline isn't going to treat your golf bag any differently than any other checked bag. But as you well know, a bag full of a bunch of sweaters absolutely cannot be treated in the same way as a bag full of expensive, polished, precision-cut clubs. One tiny dent in the rod, and your swing might be in trouble!

4 Tips for Traveling With Your Golf Clubs

In addition to reading up on airline policies before you fly, considering renting clubs at your destination, ID tagging them, and using a hard-shell case, there are more preventive measures you can take. Here are the four best tips for traveling with your clubs.

Happy Golfing

Golf is supposed to be an easy, relaxing game, even if you're a competitive pro.

How to put golf clubs back together?

Step Two: Take the heads off all adjustable clubs. Put the heads in their headcovers and store them inside your golf bag or in another piece of luggage. Make notes or take pics of how the clubs get put back together. Step Three: Use a Stiff Arm . If you don’t want to spring for a Stiff Arm, use a broom handle.

How much weight can you put in a golf bag?

Your golf bag is going to get very close to the 50 pound limit, especially with a hard case. Putting your balls in your luggage will save you from paying the overweight charge or doing the emergency reshuffle at baggage check. Bonus Tip: Put your rangefinder in your carry on.

How to make a golf cart bag?

Step One: Choose a golf bag without legs. I prefer a cart bag, but a true walking bag is a fine choice, too. The reason for this is simple: even in a hard case, a bag’s legs are very easy to break. I lost a great stand bag that way. Step Two: Take the heads off all adjustable clubs.

Is it a hassle to travel with golf clubs?

Taking a golf trip is great, but traveling with golf clubs is a hassle. More than that, it’s nerve wracking to think about your precious clubs being lost, stolen, or broken en route. Today, I’ll share some of my hard earned lessons about packing golf clubs for air travel.

Where is Matt from Plugged In Golf?

He's worked in nearly every job in the golf industry from club fitting to instruction to writing and speaking. Matt lives in the northwest suburbs of Chicago with his wife and two daughters.

Can a rangefinder be stolen?

Bonus Tip: Put your rangefinder in your carry on. Rangefinders are expensive and can very easily be stolen or broken in transit.

Do airlines cover hard cases?

Hard case: Peace of mind. The airlines will only cover damaged clubs if you’re using a hard case.

How to pack golf clubs for travel?

In this article, we cover 12 helpful tips for packing golf clubs: 1 Invest In a Golf Travel Bag 2 Tape Golf Bag Legs To Bag and Remove Straps 3 Remove Club Heads 4 Cover Irons 5 Tape Together Shafts If Possible 6 Fill Extra space with clothes 7 Pack Golf Devices With Batteries in Carry-on 8 Use a Stiff arm 9 Get a Non-Stop Flight 10 Add a tag to Your bag 11 Consider the Weight 12 What to pack in your golf bag

What happens if a golf club breaks during a flight?

If a club breaks during a flight, it’s usually the driver or woods. This is partly because they’re the longest clubs, and partly because they have graphite shafts. In fact, I’ve never seen an iron break during transport.

Why do you pack clothes around golf bags?

This hack is great for two reasons. First, packing clothes around your golf bag in your travel case reduces movement inside the case. If there’s less room to move around, there’s a smaller chance of them rattling around the case if baggage handlers take a less-than-gentle approach when loading them on the plane.

What is a stiff arm in golf?

A stiff-arm is a device you put in your golf bag to take on any verticle impact during transport.

Why do you need a golf bag?

The first – and most obvious – is that it will protect your golf clubs from getting scratched, scraped, scuffed, or snapped during transport. The second reason is a little less clear. Many airlines will not accept responsibility for damages to clubs that are not stored in a golf travel bag.

How many bags did airlines mishandle in 2018?

According to SITA – the world’s leading specialist in air transport communications and information technology – airlines mishandled 24.8 million bags in 2018 alone.

What are the different types of golf bags?

There are two main types of golf travel bags – hard-sided and soft-sided.

How to close a modal window?

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What is the best way to protect your sticks from airline damage?

When it comes to safeguarding your sticks from airline damage, a high-quality travel bag is your first and best line of defense. But there are many other simple, protective steps. A stiff-arm, for instance, adds vertical strength to a travel bag, protecting your clubs from all kinds of stress. In the absence of the real thing, a sturdy broomstick or telescoping ski pole can serve as a stand in.

How much weight can you carry on a golf club?

Most airlines treat golf clubs as standard luggage, meaning there’s a weight limit (usually 50 pounds) but no oversize baggage fee. If your clubs go missing, the carrier will replace them (just be prepared to deal with paperwork and, in all likelihood, long hold times on calls should you need additional assistance).

Why do you pay attention to the fine print?

Because policies can vary, pay attention to the fine print. It’s not riveting reading (if that’s what you’re after, try the safety instructions in the seat-back pocket), but it will help protect you from an unpleasant surprise.

Can you replace a golf club in your bag?

A lucky coin. A vintage head cover. A filled-in scorecard from a round you played on a bucket-list course. If you’re traveling with a golf item you couldn’t stand to lose, keep it with you in your carry-on luggage instead.

Can you take a direct flight with golf clubs?

It’s hard to say which is more frustrating: missing your connection, or making it to your destination without a hitch only to find that your clubs didn’t. The best way to avoid both of these risks is to take a direct flight, if you’ve got that option. It will almost certainly cost more. But paying extra can save you all kinds of headaches, as golf clubs are among the most likely items to be left behind on a tight connection, especially on a small regional flight.

Who is Josh Sens?

A golf, food and travel writer, Josh Sens has been a GOLF Magazine contributor since 2004 and now contributes across all of GOLF’s platforms. His work has been anthologized in The Best American Sportswriting. He is also the co-author, with Sammy Hagar, of Are We Having Any Fun Yet: the Cooking and Partying Handbook.

What to pack in a soft sided golf bag?

If you use a soft-sided bag, don’t forget to pack a golf club protection device. It looks like an adjustable aluminum crutch that’s taller than your driver and keeps your shafts from being damaged in case the bag is dropped upside down.

How to identify a hotel bag?

Add some personal ID marking to your bag. Miller said adding some bright-colored string or a pom-pom will help you identify it quickly. Many bags have places for business cards as well. Don't forget to include your cell phone number. If possible, include the name of the hotel where you’re staying.

What is a drop off at the airport?

Think about a cab or car service (or ride to the airport). Drops you off closer to the gate than parking, which means a long haul at times with a large bag to roll.

Can you leave electronics in your golf bag?

Don’t leave your expensive electronics in your golf bag. Rangefinder? GPS? Treat it just like your computer – carry it on with you.

Can you travel with your golf clubs in 2021?

Tips for Traveling with your Golf Clubs. Published on Saturday, April 24, 2021. Just because you golf often, doesn’t mean you necessarily travel and golf often, at least not on trips that require travel by air. There are more things to consider than you might know, so we asked a few experts to provide some basic and even advanced tips ...

Can you check in golf bags at airports?

Don’t forget that golf bags are considered “oversized check-in”. If you don’t know where to find check in or pick up at a particular airport, Schmidt said make sure you ask someone as soon as you get there. And if you're unsure on the cost or weight allowance, check with the airline or your travel agent. Be aware that some airports will send your golf bag through the regular baggage belt (with all of the other luggage) but others (such as Atlanta Hartsfield) will leave at a different location for oversized bags.

Are There Hybrid Golf Travel Bags?

Now days there are literally hundreds of different styled golf bags that can perform many different functions.

Why use a golf bag?

Using only a regular golf bag provides less padding or even a hard shell to protect your golf clubs. If the bag were to be hit by an irate luggage attendant, the clubs or bag stands may snap. 2. Bag Damage. A regular golf bag would be directly exposed to conveyor belts and the elements.

How much weight can you carry in a golf bag?

Without a golf bag you can add more goodies to your golf bag. Most airlines allow at least 40 lbs or 50 lbs of weight for over sized luggage. A typical bag and full set of clubs would be about 22 lbs leaving you with the ability to add more stuff for your epic trip.

What to wear with rain cover on golf clubs?

With the rain cover on but unzipped intertwine additional clothing like shorts and lighter shirts among the club heads giving the clubs even more padding from unsuspecting blows. Now your carry on is getting even lighter.

What does it mean to own a travel bag?

Owning a travel bag means it needs to be stored at your house/rental and in the hotel/rental on your trip. This can be a pain! 4. Space Savings. Eliminating that extra container means a lighter carry and a much easier piece of luggage to load and unload into your vehicle.

How to protect your driver from a club?

Put your longest iron against your driver leaving the club head cover on the driver. Using packing tape, tape them together with the iron slightly above the driver head. This helps protect your driver especially if you have steel shafts in your irons. See the picture below.

What goes in the smaller pockets?

Underwear and socks go well in the smaller pockets. Rolled up shirts and pants can go in the longer side pockets.

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