{"id":4576439,"date":"2023-03-26T05:24:31","date_gmt":"2023-03-26T05:24:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.golfspan.com\/?p=4576439"},"modified":"2023-03-26T05:24:36","modified_gmt":"2023-03-26T05:24:36","slug":"flying-with-golf-clubs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.golfspan.com\/flying-with-golf-clubs","title":{"rendered":"Flying with Golf Clubs: 6 Tips To Avoid Hassles"},"content":{"rendered":"

A golf trip can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but planning it can be a real headache. And if you make a mistake you could lose your golf clubs in an airport thousands of miles from home can be a nightmare.<\/p>\n

So what are the best tips for flying with golf clubs?\u00a0Most airlines treat golf bags as check-in baggage, but calling in advance is always better. It\u2019s always wise to avoid connecting flights, so your luggage\/golf bag does not get misplaced. <\/strong>You can also pack your golf clubs in durable golf bags, and remove clubhead covers, but use bubble wrap to protect the heads.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Before I begin discussing what’s lurking out there waiting for you at the airport, let me put you at ease by telling you that your airline will be responsible for your golf clubs in case they get lost.<\/p>\n

Keep reading our guide to learn everything you need to know about flying with golf clubs. We\u2019ll cover tips on traveling with golf clubs, costs, and organizing your clubs for the flight properly.<\/p>\n

How Much Does It Cost To Travel With Golf Clubs?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Most airlines and the TSA<\/a>\u00a0consider a golf bag as part of your baggage allowed as long as the weight does not exceed the permitted limit. In this case, no extra amount needs to be paid.<\/p>\n

However, golf clubs sometimes need to be checked in through a separate conveyer belt – usually because the bag is oversized compared to the allowed dimensions.<\/p>\n

If your bag is oversized or overweight, you must pay $40 to $60 before taking them on the flight with you.<\/p>\n

6 Tips To Avoid Hassles When Flying with Golf Clubs<\/strong><\/h2>\n

\"flying<\/p>\n

This guide will help you plan and know what to expect at the airport, on the flight, and what you can do to avoid any further hassle.<\/p>\n

1. Avoid Layovers<\/strong><\/h3>\n

One thing that brings uncertainties in your traveling is layovers. It’s a stop before you reach your primary destination; every stop can add suspense to your trip.<\/p>\n

First thing, layovers have the possibility of delays. Secondly, on a layover, the airport\/airline must transfer your bags from one flight to another, and you could get stuck, hoping your clubs do not get lost during the transfer.<\/p>\n

At the end of the day, if everything takes care of itself smoothly, there\u2019s still a possibility that all the movement can cause some damage to your golf clubs.<\/p>\n

The fewer transfers you have, the lower your chances of losing clubs. So, direct flights are the way to go!<\/p>\n

2. Consider Using a Tracking Device<\/strong><\/h3>\n

There is always a good option to plan for the worst situation, and losing your golf bag is the worst. Add a tracking device like the Apple AirTag to your golf bag if ID tags aren’t enough. This will give you security if your bag is misplaced, and you\u2019ll know where to find it.<\/p>\n

3. Leave The Important Valuables at Home<\/strong><\/h3>\n

As mentioned, most airlines aren\u2019t responsible for returning your precious valuables<\/a>. Anything with sentimental value is gone if you lose your bag, and the airline might not recover it. Golf clubs are replaceable. However, that souvenir you got from your favorite course is not replaceable. So, if you\u2019ve got some valuables in your golf kit, it\u2019s wise to leave them at home.<\/p>\n

4. Research your Airline<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Before you fly, research the airline and its policies related to the baggage you can carry. Most airlines usually have a policy regarding traveling with golf clubs. Knowing what to expect can help you better prepare for the check-in process.<\/p>\n

Airlines consider golf clubs like any checked baggage as long as you\u2019ve properly stored and packed them. As long as the total weight of baggage is within the maximum limit allowed against your ticket, you won’t have to pay extra just to bring your golf clubs on board.<\/p>\n

Some airlines don\u2019t consider it part of the baggage, and your golf bag needs to be check-in as oversized baggage; in this case, you might have to pay upfront.<\/p>\n

At the end of the day, pay attention to the fine print: it’s up to the TSA officer at the gate whether or not you’ll be allowed through with your golf bag.<\/p>\n

5. Buy A Durable Golf Bag<\/strong><\/h3>\n

You can use specific golf bags produced for traveling with golf clubs. Hard-shell case and Soft-shell case bags are your go-to options.<\/p>\n

Investing in one can reduce overall bag weight and help you bring the total weight under the allowed limit.<\/p>\n

Read our list of the <\/strong>best golf bags for traveling<\/a><\/strong>.<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Hard-Shell Case Bags<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Hard-shell cases used as golf bags are typically made of a more rigid material than your usual golf bag build. This is the best protection you can get for your golf clubs.<\/p>\n

There are no real downsides to investing in a hard-shell case bag other than that it’s a little heavier and might not fit in every car, but you can find a way around that since we are trying to achieve optimal safety when flying with golf clubs.<\/p>\n

Mentioned below are one of the top hard-shell travel golf bags in the market.<\/p>\n