10 Best Golf Bags For The Money: Pros, Cons, Reviews

An often overlooked part of an enjoyable round of golf is your golf bag. We have our favorite clubs and balls, so why is the bag any less important?

Any golf pro will tell you that organizing and planning your game is essential for low scores. Finding the right golf bag can be an integral part of this. For example, inclusions that may seem trivial, like a dedicated spot for tees, mean that you won’t be fumbling around looking for a new tee. Instead, you can focus on the shot as you walk over to your bag and pull a new one out.

Also, having a comfortable bag to carry has been proven to lower your scores. So, what are the best golf bags?

Here are the 10 best golf bags for the money:

1. Founders Club Premium Cart Bag – Best Overall Cart Bag
2. Sun Mountain C-130 – Best Premium Cart Bag
3. Bag Boy Chiller Golf Cart Bag – Best Cart Bag for Cold Drinks
4. Izzo Ultra Lite Cart Bag – Best Light Cart Bag
5. TaylorMade Pro 8.0 Cart Bag – Best Cart Bag for Women
6. Taylormade Select ST Stand Bag – Best Overall Stand Bag
7. Callaway Golf Fairway 14 Stand Bag – Best Premium Stand Bag
8. Izzo Ulta Lite Stand Bag – Best Budget Stand Bag
9. Callaway Golf Fairway Plus Stand Bag – Best Hybrid Golf Bag
10. Nike Sport Carry Lite – Best Looking Stand Bag

There’s a lot more to it too. In fact, deciding on a new golf bag can get a little overwhelming with all the options out there. But don’t worry. We’ve built a buyer’s guide covering what to look for and gathered a list of the best golf bags available in 2023. Read on to learn more about optimizing your round with a high-quality golf bag.

Cart Bags Vs. Stand Bags: Which Is The Best Value?

At the end of the day, the decision you make between bag types will be whether or not you use a cart. That seems obvious, right? But, the choice becomes less clear for those who like to do a little bit of both. Let’s take a look at each to make an informed decision.

Cart Bags

Cart bags have a lot more space. They often have extra dividers, overall room for your clubs, and more pockets. Unfortunately, this extra space comes at the cost of being much heavier.

They come with rugged bottoms that allow a golf cart bag to stand straight up on its own. This means you can take it out of the cart to get closer to your ball. Sometimes in the rough, getting the cart close is hard, and you may want a choice of clubs with you. But they’re not ideal for carrying long distances.

If you plan to play a round of golf and there are no carts available for hire, you will definitely need a golf trolley (push cart) to help you get around the course with a cart bag.

Read more: We have full reviews of the best golf cart bags.

Stand Bags

Stand bags are much lighter and usually come equipped with straps so you can carry them around the course without a golf cart or push cart.

Their designs are sleeker than cart bags, with fewer pockets and narrower club spaces.

As stand bags have to account for every added pound of weight, they often are a little less durable than comparably priced cart bags. This is because they lack the heavy and tough materials on a cart bag.

Which Should You Get?

The truth is both of these types of bags work perfectly with a pushcart. If you have no intention of carrying the bag with a strap, the extra space in a cart bag should appeal to you. On the other hand, cart bags are still the heavier of the two. So, if you want the walk between shots to be a little easier and you don’t have a lot of golf gear, go for a stand bag.

You may even want to opt for one of the lightest golf bags.

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The Best Golf Cart Bags for the Money

The following are the top-rated golf bags for those that like to wheel around their clubs. Go for one of these if you know your local golf club always has carts available or you have your own reliable push cart. Read the full golf bag reviews to better determine which is right for you, and you don’t waste any money.

1. Founders Club Premium Cart Bag – Best Overall

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Pros:

• 2 Velour-lined valuables pockets
• Rubberized protective slot technology
• 14-way divider top with anti-rattle technology
• The reinforced base makes this bag sturdy and durable
• Cooler pocket

Cons:

• Jumbo grip putters are difficult to store

Specs:

• 7 Colors
• Material: Polyester
• Single strap
• Dimensions:11.69 x 8.15 x 31.54 inches
• 14 Dividers

The Founders Club Premium Cart Bag is constructed of lightweight, high-quality materials and is aimed at golfers covering the whole spectrum of skills and handicaps.

One of my favorite features of the Founders Club Premium Golf Cart Bag is the 14-way top with dedicated slots for every club. This makes it easy to keep my clubs organized and prevents them from rattling around in the bag. The bag also has a large cooler pocket with drain holes, which is perfect for keeping drinks cold on a hot day.

Another feature that I really like is the ventilated back panel. This helps to keep my back cool and comfortable, even on long walks around the course. The bag also has two integrated side handles for easy lifting and moving.

The brand claims the bag weighs 2.9 pounds, but I think it’s about 4.8 pounds when empty. This is still super light. It also comes with 2 handles integrated on the sides for easy lifting and moving. This bag supplies your clubs and valuables with abundant protection and storage while maintaining its lightweight features. 

The colors available are:

• Black
• White
• Red
• Blue / Black
• Charcoal / Black
• Red / Black
• Orange / Black

Overall, I’m really impressed with the Founders Club Premium Golf Cart Bag. It’s a lightweight, durable, and affordable option that is packed with features that will make your round of golf more enjoyable.

2. Sun Mountain C-130 – Best Premium Pick

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Pros:

• Looks great
• A fantastic smart strap system
• Cooler pocket
• One of the roomiest bags on the market

Cons:

• The putter well is not ideal for oversized putters
• A little more expensive than the competition

Specs:

• Material: Nylon
• Dimensions: 12 x 18 x 38 inches
• Dividers: 14
• Pockets: 10

These bags truly are epic and come packed with plenty of features to justify their price tag. Although this bag is a little more expensive than our top pick for cart bags, it still won’t break the bank. It could have taken out the top spot if it were a little cheaper.

One of the best features of these bags is the specific range of pocket styles that Sun Mountain includes. They have:

• An apparel pocket
• 2 velour-lined valuables pockets
• One rain-resistant pocket
• A cooler pocket
• 6 accessory pockets

As you can see, you’d be hard-pressed to fill this bag up to its total storage capacity. A particular standout is the cooler pocket. If you’re a golfer that likes to have a cold beverage or two on the course, it’s perfect. You could also use it for your water.

Another great feature is the smart strap system. It helps stop the bag from rotating in your push cart, which we all know can be a real pain. The strap system also doesn’t interfere with the pockets in any way, so you can use the bag to its full potential, even on a golf trolley.

If storage space is at the top of your list for your next bag, this is the best golf bag for you. It’s a no-brainer.

3. Bag Boy Chiller Golf Cart Bag – Best Cart Bag for Cold Drinks

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Pros:

• 15-way full-length divider
• Six color choices
• Removable 6-pack cooler
• Low price but high storage

Cons:

• Not the best quality zippers

Specs: 

• 9 colors
• Material: Polyester
• Single strap
• Dimensions: 13.5 x 10 x 30 inches
• 15 dividers

The Bag Boy Chiller Golf Cart Bag is constructed from 420 Denier Nylon and features a 15-way top divider with full-length dividers. It has 9 pockets, including a cooler pocket that can hold up to 6 x 12-ounce cans. The bag also has a ventilated back panel, two integrated side handles, and a rain cover.

I recently had the opportunity to test out the Bag Boy Chiller Golf Cart Bag. I was really impressed with the bag’s construction and durability. It’s also packed with features, making it a great option for golfers of all skill levels.

One of my favorite features of the Bag Boy Chiller Golf Cart Bag is the cooler pocket. I could keep drinks cold for the length of my entire round, which was helpful on a hot day. The bag also has a ventilated back panel, which helped to keep my back cool and comfortable.

Read more: Best Golf Bags with Coolers

4. Izzo Ultra Lite Cart Bag – Best Light Golf Cart Bag

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Pros:

• Customizable ball pocket
• Durable 4200 polyester fabric
• 14 full-length dividers
• Very lightweight – 3.8 pounds
• Waterproof pocket for valuables
• 4 choices of color designs

Cons:

• Only 6 pockets
• Strap sold separately

Specs:

• Black color
• Material: Polyester
• Strap type: Adjustable
• Dimensions: 88.9 x 35.6 x 27.9 centimeters
• Number of dividers: 14

The Izzo Ultra Lite Cart Bag weighs in at just 3.8 pounds, making it one of the lightest cart bags on the market. It is made from a durable nylon material and features a 14-way top divider with full-length dividers. The bag also has 6 pockets, including a waterproof valuables pocket.

I recently had the opportunity to test out the Izzo Ultra Lite Cart Bag. The bag’s lightweight construction and durability is its top feature. It’s also packed with features, making it a great option for golfers of all skill levels.

This bag is so light, and there’s no reason you couldn’t carry it instead. That makes it perfect if you’re quickly shooting 9 holes and want a bit of a workout. The bag’s lightweight design is ideal for senior golfers with difficulty retrieving their clubs in a heavier bag.

Another feature that I really like is the waterproof valuables pocket. This is a great way to keep your valuables safe, especially if there’s a chance of rain.

This is a great bag, especially for older golfers who don’t need as much storage.

5. TaylorMade Pro 8.0 Cart Bag – Best Cart Bag for Women

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Pros:

• Huge club space
• Optional shoulder strap
• Rain protection
• Key lock base

Cons:

• No slot for a cart strap

Specs:

• Material: Polyester
• Dimensions: 13.5 x 10 x 30 inches
• Dividers: 14
• Pockets: 7

One potential drawback of choosing a cart bag over a carry bag is that they sometimes fall off your push cart. TaylorMade counteracts this problem with the Pro Cart 8.0 bag by including a key lockable base. Combining this system with a compatible cart allows it to lock in. That means bumps and shocks in the course shouldn’t cause you any headaches.

However, the key lock system also means these bags lack a cart strap loophole. So, if you have an older push cart and intend to continue using it, this bag may not be the right choice.

The TaylorMade Pro Cart has ample space to fit even the most avid golfer’s clubs. With a 14-way divider including an oversized putter well, there’s no way you’ll run out of space. The same goes for the pockets. There’s even a removable XL ball pocket.

As the pockets are forward-facing, you’ll have no trouble getting to any of your essential gear. There’s also a waterproof pocket and rain protection to protect your electronics.

This is an overall fantastic golf bag that comes at a fair price. While it’s a little more expensive than a budget pick, it makes up for it with features and storage capacity.

The Best Golf Stand Bags For The Money

Stand bags are the best option if you like to carry your clubs. But, be aware they often don’t sit well in push carts and lack features to safely place in electric course vehicles. If you’ve decided a stand bag is best for you, here are our top-rated golf bags:

1. Taylormade Select ST Stand Bag – Best Overall Stand Bag for the Money

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Pros:

• Lightweight and durable
• Reliable big-name branding at a good price
• Anti-split stand legs

Cons:

• Only a 5-way divider

Specs:

• Material: Nylon
• Weight: 5lb
• Dividers: 7
• Pockets: 6

There are plenty of reasons why this bag is a top seller. One of those reasons is that TaylorMade is recognized for making some of the best golf products on the market. You get that industry-leading backing at a very modest price with this bag.

Another reason these are considered the best golf stand bag for their price, and fly off the shelves, is their extreme portability. They only weigh 5lbs and come equipped with five easy-grab handles. The dual straps also spread the weight evenly across your shoulders so you can carry your clubs to the 18th hole without worries.

The nylon exterior makes for a durable bag that will last you years. The six pockets will also keep your golf gear and valuables safe on the golf course, no matter the weather. You can also thank the velour-lined dry pocket for keeping your phone and range finder safe from an unexpected downpour.

There are cheaper stand bags on the market, but they have the perfect features to make them the best value for money.

2. Callaway Golf Fairway 14 Stand Bag – Premium Pick

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Pros:

• Light enough to carry with a strap
• Full features of a cart bag
• Very durable
• Rubber molds for pushcart friendliness

Cons:

• Expensive
• Only available with a double shoulder strap

Specs:

• Material: Nylon
• Weight: 6lb
• Dividers: 14
• Pockets: 6

Can’t decide whether you want a cart bag or a stand bag? Why not have both? Callaway Golf designed its Fairway 14 series to be the best of both worlds. It has the lightweight features you need to carry the bag over long distances but doesn’t skimp on the organizational benefits of a cart bag.

The past iterations of the Fairway 14 have had a little trouble staying locked in to push carts. This issue also bled into problems with the putter well. But, Callaway fixed those issues by incorporating a new Lowrider top. It features a rubber over-mold for the putter well and grip blocks.

With the addition of the Lowrider top in this year’s models, you can carry the Fairway 14 with the straps or use a push cart and have no problems either way.

These golf bags are truly a marvel, and if it weren’t for their hefty price tag, they could easily have been our top pick in both categories. But, if you have the budget, they’re definitely worth their cost. After all, is it not worth housing your premium clubs in a premium bag?

3. Izzo Ulta Lite Stand Bag – The Best Budget Golf Bag

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Pros:

• Extremely light
• Full-length dividers
• Smartgrip handles

Cons:

• Not many pockets
• Only has a 4-way divider

Specs:

• Material: Polyester
• Weight: 3.2lb
• Dividers: 4
• Pockets: 4

This bag is so light that you could probably pick it up with your hands and carry it for nine holes. The Smartgrip handles would make that pretty easy too. Yet, we recommend using the ergonomic shoulder straps that come with the bag instead.

You may not expect to see full-length dividers in such a light and budget-friendly golf bag. But the Izzo Ultra Light has them. The only downfall is that it’s only a four-way divider.

There are also only four pockets. These bags compensate for that by adding other clever storage options like an umbrella holder and built-in rain hood.

The classic saying “you get what you pay for” applies here regarding extra features. However, these bags are just as durable as bags that cost twice as much. The lack of additional features also helps to save weight.

So, it’s up to you if you’d like to trade storage space and features for a cheap, reliable, and lightweight golf stand bag. If so, this is likely the best budget golf bag for you.

4. Callaway Golf Fairway Plus Stand Bag – Best Hybrid Golf Bag

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Pros:

• Tough zippers
• Quick clip single strap design
• Pushcart friendly

Cons:

• Low rider 4-way divider won’t suit all golfers
• Slightly heavier than comparable models

Specs:

• Weight: 4.7lbs (2.13kg)
• Divider: 4 ways
• Waterproof: Partially
• Colors: 8

The Fairway Plus line from Callaway Golf is between the Fairway C and Fairway 14, making it a hybrid cart that is just as happy being placed in push carts as it is being carried around the course, making it one of the best golf bags for walking without question.

The trade-off is that these are a little heavier than similarly sized carts due to the addition of rubber over-mold grip blocks that make these bags so pushcart friendly.

The 4-way Apex system divider is well thought out and keeps your clubs safe, even on long and hilly courses.

Despite its compact size, the 4-way top of the golf bag provides ample room for the clubs to move in and out of the bag. 

The padding at the top effectively protects the shafts from any kind of damage during transportation. The grab handles at the bag’s top, front, and bottom are very strong and practical. 

The fabric on these bags is extremely tough and will last a lifetime if you treat the bag respectfully. The legs are also sturdy enough to keep you carrying your bag around for years.

These bags are one of the top contenders for those who like to use a push cart but sometimes like to exert themselves extra by carrying their bag.

5. Nike Sport Carry Lite – Best for Aesthetics

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Pros:

• Ample apparel pocket
• Lightweight when compared to storage
• Very sturdy legs

Cons:

• Hip and strap padding could be better
• No top handle

Specs:

• Weight: 4.3lbs (1.95kg)
• Pockets: 7
• Waterproof: Partially
• Divider: 5 Way with dedicated putter well
• Colors: 4

Sometimes it’s nice to be kitted out completely in one brand. Since Nike is the top apparel provider for golf, it would make sense to get a Nike bag, right?

The Nike Sport Carry Lite is one of the lightest stand bags on the market, weighing in at just 4.3 pounds. This makes it a great choice for golfers who want a bag that is easy to carry and maneuver. The bag is also made from a durable nylon material, so you can be sure it will last for many rounds of golf.

One of the things that I like most about the Nike Sport Carry Lite is the comfortable carrying system. The bag has two adjustable padded shoulder straps to find the perfect fit for your body. The bag also has a top handle that makes it easy to carry by hand.

Another thing that I like about the Nike Sport Carry Lite is its stylish design. The bag comes in various colors, so you can find one that matches your style. I recently played a round of golf with my friends, and they all really liked the look of my Nike Sport Carry Lite.

The Nike Sport Carry Lite has a 5-way divider and dedicated putter slot. This makes it easy to keep your clubs organized and prevents them from rattling around in the bag. The bag also has 6 pockets, including a valuables pocket with a waterproof lining. This is a great place to store your phone, wallet, and other valuables.

Overall, the Nike Sport Carry Lite is a great choice for golfers who are looking for a lightweight, stylish, and comfortable golf bag.

The Best Golf Bags 2023 FAQs

If you’re still unsure which golf bag you want, the answers to these frequently asked questions will hopefully help you decide.

Final Thoughts

There’s no magic golf bag out there that will make you a better player. Nor is there one that suits every golfer. Pick one that suits your playstyle (walking or driving a cart). It also never hurts to get one you like the look of, provided it’s a decent bag.

Don’t just look at our top picks of the Founders Club Premium and Taylormade Select ST Stand Bag, and assume they’re the best golf bag 2023 offers (although they’re pretty good!). Now that you’ve finished reading our full reviews think about your game, and choose the golf bag that suits your needs.

If you found this article useful, we have plenty more on offer. Check out these related articles:

• The Best Hybrid Golf Bags
• The Best Golf Cart Bags
• The Best Golf Bag with Cooler