The TSA-approved lock is a great idea. The other thing I've heard about is using an ATA case designed for golf bags - similar to the Bass Safe, but airline attendants deal with golf bags (and cases for them) much more regularly than basses, so they don't raise as many eyebrows and are less likely to get mishandled.
Full Answer
What is the difference between hard and soft case golf bags?
Hard case vs. soft case golf bags There are two types of golf travel bags based on material: hard case and soft case bags. Soft golf travel bags are light, which is a big advantage and are generally the more affordable option. This is the typical choice of golfers who are tipping near the maximum set weight for air travel.
Why choose hard case travel bags for golf clubs?
Unlike typical stand bags, hard case travel bags will give additional protection for your clubs featuring high quality materials such as heavy duty zippers capable of being locked these are ideal bags for airlines . You probably heard some horror stories about valuable items getting damaged during the rigors of travel.
What is an ABS Hard Case golf bag?
The solid ABS shell prevents impacts to your golf bag and clubs in order to best preserve them during flight and travel. All of our golf club case picks are hard case golf travel bags with wheels, but this one is a bit unique among most options. It actually has two different types of wheels.
What is the Best Hard Shell Golf Travel Bag?
This SKB Deluxe ATA Golf Travel Case is made in the USA with a hard polyethylene shell. Polyethylene is a common and highly versatile plastic choice. This allows it to be extremely durable while also remaining relatively low in cost when it comes to hard shell golf travel bag options.
Hard Vs. Soft Golf Travel Bags: An Overview
If you’re in the market for a new travel bag for your golf clubs, check out this short video that has some great options ranked for you. While you may not be able to find all of these in stock, you might find some inspiration as to what to look for.
What Should You Consider When Buying?
You know the basic differences but what is it you should think about when you’re trying to decide whether or not you want a hard case or a soft case for your golf travel bag?
Mode of Travel – Car Vs. Airplane
One thing that just might make a difference in your decision is the mode of travel you plan to use. You might also consider that while you are driving this time, you might be flying at a later time.
Other Things To Consider
There are a few miscellaneous things to consider apart from size, protection, and travel modes.
Renting Vs. Purchasing a Travel Golf Bag
Many golfers might elect to simply rent a golf travel bag rather than purchasing one. This is totally up to you. The challenge for renting is finding a reliable place to rent from.
Conclusion
In closing, a golf travel bag is the most ideal way to protect your golf clubs when you travel and to make packing all of the golf things together much easier.
mikekim
I fly internationally quite a lot, and in my experience, they rarely let you take a bass on board these days. So, I've been thinking of buying either an SKB Bass Safe or an ATA Case from http://affordable-cases.com.
jasonbraatz Supporting Member
I just flew yesterday, and had to check a bag with some drum parts for my friend. It was American Airlines, and their limit for "overweight" was 50lbs. A flight case is going to be around 25 lbs by itself, so you still should be ok.
crijan Supporting Member
I use an SKB bass safe with a well padded Levy's Leather gig bag and have not had a problem with overweight or oversized charges on multiple different airlines.
Showdown
Go to a luggage store and buy a TSA approved padlock. TSA inspectors. Have a key that will open them, but they are locked for everyone else.
bassjam Supporting Member
I have used the Bass Safe for a few years and have used it on many many flights without an issue.It is just wonderful.I was a bit skeptical about the it at first-wasnt sure if it would hold up,but it still looks good.The handles and wheels are great!As mentioned above,pick up a couple TSA locks-They (security) can get into your case but nobody else can.I believe I got mine at Home Depot.I have a nice gig bag and just slide it in.When you get to where you are going,leave the Bass safe in the hotel room and grab the gig bag. Before the Bass Safe I used a super heave duty flight case.Never had an issue with that either,but man was it heavy.Im sure I would have been pushing 50lbs with that thing loaded up.I hated carrying it around and after several flights,it was pretty banged up and eventually the lid didnt shut right.I wont go back to that..
kesslari Groovin' with the Fusion Cats Staff Member Gold Supporting Member
I've heard good things about the Bass Safe - the downside being that it could open if not refastened correctly.
mikekim
Thanks for the replies everyone. I'm gonna ask them the exact weight of the ATA case, but the Bass Safe does look really convenient... how hard is the plastic? If you stand on it, does it touch the gig bag/bass? That's my main concern with it (and the refastening issue).
What color is a hard case golf bag?
Most hard case golf bags are color black. Still, you can chance upon other colors with varying designs.
What is the best material for golf bags?
For hard case golf bags, the likes of ABS plastic, polyethylene, and PVC are the widely used material. All of these are durable but on various levels and for air travel we need strength to keep your clubs safe rather than making a baggage claim whilst also staying within the weight limits imposed by airlines.
What is the difference between a golf cart bag and a golf stand bag?
On the other hand, golf cart bags are much larger and have a removable top that allows it to be used as a caddy bag on the golf course.
What is a Samsonite hard sided travel case?
It’s made with ABS shell shields that will guard your clubs and accessories against wear and tear. Also, we love its quilted and padded interior packed with extra foam as shock absorbers.
How long is a golf bag?
A: Usually, hard case golf bags can accommodate up to 50 inches so more than enough for that driver even with the club head covered. This is way longer than the standard 36-inch golf stand bag.
What is a golf bag?
Purpose of golf travel bags. Golf travel bags are made for one thing: to keep your golf gear safe wherever you go especially air travel. Unlike typical soft-shelled stand bags, travel bags are reinforced with a harder material that will cushion any potential impact to your club heads .
How to protect golf clubs while flying?
A: The best way to protect your golf gears from damage while flying is placing it inside the best hard case golf travel bag. You can also wrap each club in bubble wrap for extra protection and additional cushioning.
What is a golf bag review?
Golf travel bag reviews are the perfect information source if you are having a hard time making a decision. Remember that price can also vary between different retailers, too. Get the best value by comparing multiple options after you’ve chosen your ideal golf bag carrier.
What is a soft golf bag?
With a soft golf travel bag, you basically have a golf duffle bag. These bags are soft-sided but not completely without structure. They can certainly have some benefits compared to hard golf travel bag options. First off, they tend to be quite a bit more affordable.
How much does a Samsonite hard case weigh?
All of the products we reviewed had a very reasonable product weight. The Samsonite hard case with wheels weighs in at 14 lbs. and the CaddyDaddy travel bag weighs just 9.6 lbs. So it’s not a huge benefit to have the soft sided bags just because they weigh less.
Why do you need a golf bag?
They contain your bag appropriately to make flying possible while also providing important protection from airport wear and tear.
What is a polyethylene golf bag?
Polyethylene is a common and highly versatile plastic choice. This allows it to be extremely durable while also remaining relatively low in cost when it comes to hard shell golf travel bag options. This travel golf case is made with a sculpted, form-fitting design that should easily accommodate most golf bags.
Do you need a golf bag for a flight?
Answer: Not everyone that plays golf will need a golf travel bag or case. If you will be taking your golf clubs and equipment on a flight, you will definitely need one. This is true if you are flying with them just once or if you fly with them on a regular basis.
Do hard shell golf bags need compression straps?
Hard shell golf travel bags don’t need external compression straps, but this one does take care to include internal compression straps. These are fully adjustable and efficiently hold your golf bag securely in place within the golf bag travel case.
Can you lift a bagged guitar out?
Plus it’s easy to reach over your other stuff and lift a bag ged guitar out single-handed. However, if you’re storing an acoustic in a way that something might fall onto it (at the bottom of a top-heavy closet for instance), a case could be a much better choice.
Can a guitar be damaged if someone steps on it?
For instance, if a car backs over your case (an unfortunate but common bit of internet folklore) or if you leave your case lying on the floor and someone steps on it, the guitar inside is less likely to be damaged than if it were in a gig bag, especially if it’s an acoustic guitar.
Is a gig bag lighter than a hardshell case?
With a gig bag, your hands are free. Plus it’s typically lighter than an equivalent case. Moving about is a relative breeze, and most bags take wet weather better than a hardshell case—tweed-covered cases can be particularly susceptible to moisture damage.
What is a soft case?
Soft case (gig bag) On the other side of the spectrum are soft cases, also known as gig bags. Where hard cases struggle, gig bags excel. They are generally lightweight and easy to throw over your shoulder, and they can be crammed into smaller spaces. But like the hard cases, they have their trade-offs; namely, they offer less protection ...
What is a hardshell case?
Hardshell case. When it comes to the ability to protect your instrument from the outside environment, you’d be hard-pressed to beat the solid reliability of a hardshell case. Its rigid construction, sturdy latches, and thick walls offer the most peace of mind.
What bag to use to carry instruments on a plane?
If you choose to try to carry your instrument onboard the flight, make sure you choose a gig bag with ample protection, such as MONO’s well respected M80. You never know when the airline will force you to gate check it, and you’ll want the assurance that the bag is up for the task.
Can you use a hard case on a Les Paul?
Instruments with angled headstocks: Hard case. This one isn’t a hard-and-fast rule. But most gig bags, even ones with great neck support, can’t provide the clearance your Les Paul, or other instrument with an angled headstock, requires.
Can a guitar fit in a bag?
Your guitar may fit in the gig bag fine, but one unfortunate bump, and your guitar may be coming out of the gig bag without a head. Unless you have a long way to walk with the guitar, if it has an angled headstock, do yourself a favor and stick with a hard case with plenty of clearance.
