Golf-FAQ.com

how to prepare golf bags for flying

by Dina Hane PhD Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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  • Step One: Choose a golf bag without legs. I prefer a cart bag, but a true walking bag is a fine choice, too. ...
  • 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. ...
  • Step Six: Fill all the excess space in the case with your clothes. ...

Full Answer

How do you pack a golf bag without legs?

1 Step One: Choose a golf bag without legs. I prefer a cart bag, but a true walking bag is a fine choice, too. ... 2 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. ... 3 Step Six: Fill all the excess space in the case with your clothes. ...

How do I choose the best travel bag for golf clubs?

Look for a travel bag that has sufficient padding to protect the heads of your golf clubs. Most travel bags will be about the same length because most golfers are carrying clubs that have shafts up to 45 inches long. Travel bags are in the 50- to 55-inch range. They come in a variety of colors, but black is the most common.

Do you need a bag cover for a golf bag?

It's OK if the answer is a resounding "yes." Golf clubs in a hard case with a walking bag, shoes and a box of balls weighs 40 pounds, which is the weight limit for one bag. A golf bag cover is always best with wheels.

Are you dragging your golf travel bags through baggage claim?

Those who don’t play golf must think we’re crazy when they see us dragging our massive golf travel bags through baggage claim — only to cram the body bag-size parcel into a subway car or shared Uber … that happens to be a pint-sized Nissan Sentra.

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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.

How do you take a golf bag on a plane?

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...•

Can you check a golf bag 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. Indeed, some airlines will allow your bag as carry-on luggage so long as it weighs less than 50 pounds.

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

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).

Can you put clothes in a golf travel bag?

My travel bag has three shoe pockets, more than I need for shoes so I use some for clothes-which-can-scrunched-up such as socks, nightwear etc.) There is often a fair bit of space left inside the travel bag once my golf bag has been inserted, so utilise this by placing a bag of clothes in here.

Are golf clubs allowed on planes?

The Transportation Security Administration, a U.S. federal agency, prohibits golf clubs as carry-on items, according to its website. There are no exceptions, even if your club is a prized antique or has some other special significance.

Do airlines charge for golf bags?

Most US airlines charge $35 for a second bag, which is what your golf clubs usually are. Many charge much more, $75-$150, if you need to check a third bag. Fly a high fee airline like Spirit, which charges $55 for a second checked bag at the airport, and you are probably going to save money by shipping.

Is a golf bag considered oversized?

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. However, charges for overweight bags are applicable.

How much does a golf bag weigh?

How Much Does a Full Golf Bag Weigh? Total Weight Wet and Dry!BagWeight (Pounds)Weight (Grams)Full Bag Dry (Approx)30 lbs13600 gFull Bag Wet (Approx)33 lbs15000 g

How much does it cost to check golf clubs 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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

Why is it important to have a golf travel bag?

It’s also an excuse to take a vacation or treat a client to a personal, relaxed meeting. Wherever golf takes you, and whatever reason you play , the traveling aspect of the sport makes it necessary for every player to have the right golf travel bag. Flying or driving with your clubs and accessories requires protection.

What to pack in a golf bag for 18 holes?

Packing your golf bag for 18 holes means bringing items such as: Golf towels. Tees.

What is a soft golf bag?

Most of these bags have enough space for storing a cart bag and have extra pads inside to provide extra protection for the clubs when in transit. Many soft golf travel bags also have rollers ...

What is the best investment for golf clubs?

One of the best investments that avid golfers can make is a hard-cover golf bag. The hard bags are solid on the outside to protect from bumps and drops, but also have a soft interior cover to cushion your clubs. The inside fabric should be high quality, flexible and provide ample storage space around all of the clubs. The mix of the hard golf travel cover and the soft cradling interior result in durable protection during any means of travel.

Why is golf so popular?

Golf is a sport adored by many because it is a fun way to initiate a little competition through a game that offers exercise, social interaction and reduced stress ( particularly if you are playing well). The beauty of golf is that anyone and everyone can play it – from the young kid hitting balls with his dad to the senior woman trying ...

Should I pack a golf bag on a plane?

When traveling by plane for a golf trip, make sure you know how to pack your golf bag like a pro. Even if you buy the best golf travel bag on the market, it’s important to carefully pack and prepare it for your time on the links. Whether you decided on a hard case or soft travel bag, make sure you get one that is well-made and durable.

Do you need a travel golf bag?

If golf trips aren’t typical for you and you just play the local courses, a hard-cover golf travel bag may not be necessary. On the contrary, if you are traveling to a new course every weekend, you will likely want the extra protection a hard bag provides.

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 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.

Can you fly with golf clubs without a travel bag?

Spread the love. You love to travel and would love to take your clubs on the plane, but don’t know if you need or want a golf travel bag. In this article you will find the benefits, risks, and a guide to help you bring your beloved sticks on your next trip. Flying with golf clubs without a travel bag is definitely an option ...

Can you tape up a golf bag?

Once you bag is fully packed and padded it is an option to tape up any loose straps or zippers at your discretion. Take it easy on the tape you may be spending more on tape than a golf travel bag is worth.

1. 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. 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).

2. Fly direct

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.

4. You can take protective measures

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.

5. You could always ship them

Capitalism isn’t perfect, but it does create a wealth of consumer options. Instead of entrusting your clubs to an airline, you could always ship them to your destination. A number of companies provide this service, along with a guarantee that your clubs will be there waiting for you, without a scratch on them.

Why do you need a golf bag?

By Scott Martin. The right travel bag will help you get your clubs from place to place safely. Whether you travel frequently with your golf clubs or whether it's once a year, it's important to protect your clubs when they travel in the cargo hold. And many airlines require the use of certain types of golf club travel bags.

What is the best material for a golf bag?

The best option is a “hard case” made of plastic or fiberglass. The hard case provides the highest level of protection and many airlines require them for golf bags. The soft bag is a cloth cover that is less expensive but provides minimal protection.

What is integrated bag?

Integrated bags offer the best of both worlds: a bag that’s almost as sturdy as a hard case but usable on the golf course. Integrated bags come in “hard” and “soft” forms. In most cases, cost is commensurate with the level of protection.

How much does a golf bag weigh?

It's OK if the answer is a resounding "yes.". Golf clubs in a hard case with a walking bag, shoes and a box of balls weighs 40 pounds, which is the weight limit for one bag. A golf bag cover is always best with wheels.

Do golf clubs need to be in cargo hold?

Whether you travel frequently with your golf clubs or whether it's once a year, it's important to protect your clubs when they travel in the cargo hold. And many airlines require the use of certain types of golf club travel bags.

Can you take your golf clubs in the airplane cabin?

Golf travel is fun, whether it’s a quick weekend trip to a warm destination in the winter or it’s a long trip to a cooler climate in the middle of summer. You can’t take your clubs in the airplane cabin, so they have to go in the hold and putting your investment in the hands of baggage handlers.

Can you use a soft cover on golf clubs?

If you’re only traveling once a year with your clubs, you may be able to get away with a soft cover. If you’re traveling a lot with your clubs, you’ll need a hard case. However, some soft covers offer almost as much protection as the hard case.

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