The Shocking Cost: How Much Does It Cost to Fly with Golf Clubs?

Last updated on May 6, 2024

Toni Benedito
Golf Equipment & Gear, Blog

Flying with golf clubs can be a hassle, but it’s worth it for avid golfers. Costs vary by airline, ranging from $30 to $150 per way. Southwest Airlines offers a generous policy, allowing one set of clubs to be checked as free baggage. Consider renting or shipping clubs for convenience and cost savings, and ensure proper packing for protection during transit.

Key Takeaways

Flying with golf clubs varies in cost, ranging from $30 to $150 per way, depending on the airline and destination.
Southwest Airlines offers a favorable policy, allowing one set of clubs as free checked baggage.

Proper packing and protection are crucial for preventing damage during transit.
Consider alternatives like renting clubs or shipping them ahead to save money and hassle.
Insuring your golf clubs provides peace of mind against loss or damage during travel.

Introduction

Golf enthusiasts know that there’s nothing more relaxing than hitting the greens and taking in beautiful scenery on the golf course. However, if you’re planning a golf vacation, flying with your clubs can be quite a hassle.

Not only do you need to figure out how to transport your golf gear, but you also have to worry about the costs involved. When it comes to flying with your golf clubs, there are several options available.

You can either fly with them or ship them separately. While shipping may seem like an easier option, it can sometimes cost more than flying with your clubs.

If you do decide to fly with your clubs, there are several airline choices available. Some airlines charge extra fees for checked bags, while others may allow one checked bag for free.

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Southwest Airlines is a popular choice among golfers due to its policies regarding sports equipment. However, keep in mind that airline policies regarding transporting sports equipment can vary greatly.

It’s important to check each airline’s specific policy before booking your flight and packing your clubs. Bagging and protecting your clubs is another thing you need to consider when flying with them.

Most airlines require that you place your clubs in a travel cover or bag for added protection during transport. Make sure to pack any fragile items separately and label the bags clearly.

In terms of cost, it’s difficult to give an exact price as it varies depending on factors such as airline choice and destination location. However, some estimates suggest that it could cost anywhere from $30-$100 to $100 per club bag.

Despite these potential headaches, many golfers still choose to fly with their clubs to have access to their trusted equipment while traveling. With a little bit of research and preparation beforehand, flying with golf gear doesn’t have to be a nightmare experience—just make sure you know all of your options before making any decisions!

Why You Might Want to Fly with Your Golf Clubs

If you’re a golf enthusiast who loves to play at different courses around the world, it’s only natural that you would want to bring your own set of clubs with you. There are a variety of reasons why you might want to fly with your golf clubs rather than rent them at your destination. One reason is that owning your own set of clubs can give you more control over your game.

Every golfer knows that their swing is unique, and having a set of clubs with custom settings can make a big difference. When playing with rented clubs, there’s no guarantee that they’ll be the right fit for your height, weight, and skill level.

Transporting your clubs will ensure that you have everything you need to play at peak performance. Another reason is convenience.

By bringing your own set of clubs in a travel bag or suitcase, you won’t have to waste time standing in line at the rental shop or worrying about whether or not they’ll have the equipment you need. You’ll be able to hit the ground running as soon as you arrive at your destination.

"If you're a golf enthusiast who loves playing worldwide, bringing your own clubs is essential. Custom settings ensure peak performance, saving time and money compared to rentals. Flying with your clubs means confidence and comfort, avoiding potential damage."

Of course, cost is also a consideration. While many airlines do charge fees for transporting golf equipment, it can still be cheaper than renting clubs multiple times during an extended trip.

Some airlines, like Southwest Airlines, offer free checked bags for golf travel, and some other airlines may offer discounts on baggage fees if booked online in advance. There’s something special about playing with one’s sticks on courses around the world.

Golfers take pride in their equipment and feel more confident and comfortable when using it. Plus, flying with golf clubs means avoiding potential damage from rental sets or incorrect handling during shipping if you choose to ship instead of carrying them along on flights.

Overall, there are many good reasons why avid golfers would want to fly with their equipment instead of renting or shipping it separately through companies specializing in golf bag shipping services, such as Ship Sticks. It all depends on your personal preferences, travel plans, and budget.

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Costs of Flying with Golf Clubs

When it comes to flying with your golf clubs, the cost can vary depending on a few factors. First and foremost, it depends on the airline you’re flying with. Each airline has its own policies and fees for bringing golf equipment on board.

Some airlines, like Southwest, allow you to bring your clubs as one of your checked bags for free within certain weight and size limits. On the other hand, some airlines charge extra fees for bringing your golf clubs along with you.

These fees can range from $30 to $150 per way, depending on the airline and whether or not you’re a frequent flyer. For example, American Airlines charges $30–$35 per way for domestic flights, while Delta charges $35–$150 depending on where you’re flying to and from.

Another factor that can affect the cost of flying with golf clubs is whether or not you have your own travel case or if you need to rent one. If you don’t have a travel case for your clubs, most airlines require that they be packed in a sturdy suitcase or bag that’s suitable for protecting them during transit.

You may also rent a set of clubs at your destination instead of taking your own, which can be another cost-saving option. Suppose you choose to ship your golf gear instead of carrying it on board directly. In that case, there are several options available, such as shipping services like UPS and FedEx that specialize in shipping sports equipment, including golf bags and club shafts, but this option comes at an added price.

Overall, the costs of flying with golf equipment will vary based on several factors, including which airline you fly with, whether or not you have a travel case for them, and whether they are part of checked luggage or shipped separately. It’s important to do some research before booking your flight so that there won’t be any surprises when it comes time to pay those fees!

Airline Policies for Flying with Golf Clubs

When planning a golf trip, one of the main concerns is how to transport your clubs. Luckily, most airlines allow you to bring your golf clubs on board as checked baggage. However, it is important to be aware of each airline’s policies and fees regarding the transportation of golf equipment.

Delta Airlines allows passengers to bring one golf bag per person as checked baggage for a fee. The fee varies depending on the destination and can range from $30 to $150 each way.

It is important to note that if the weight of the bag exceeds 50 pounds or if it measures more than 62 inches in total dimensions, additional fees may apply. Southwest Airlines has a more generous policy when it comes to transporting golf clubs.

Passengers are allowed to bring one set of clubs per person along with a golf bag as checked baggage for free, in addition to their two free checked bag allowances. However, if you exceed your two-bag allowance or if your bag weighs more than 50 pounds or measures more than 62 inches in total dimensions, additional fees will apply.

"Transporting golf clubs on airlines requires understanding policies and fees. Some, like Southwest, offer generous allowances, while others charge fees based on weight and dimensions. Safety measures, such as secure packing, are crucial for protecting clubs during transit."

Other airlines, such as American and United, also allow passengers to bring their clubs as checked baggage but charge similar fees as Delta Airlines, depending on the destination. If you prefer not to travel with your clubs, some airlines offer rental sets for an additional fee.

This option may be beneficial for those who do not play frequently or are traveling internationally, where bringing their own set may not be feasible due to customs regulations. When packing your club, safety should be a top priority.

Most airlines require that all clubs be securely packed in a hard-sided or padded soft case with sufficient padding around each club head and shaft. It is also recommended that you include extra padding, such as towels or bubble wrap, for added protection during transit.

Before booking your flight, check with each airline’s specific policy regarding transporting golf equipment since different options are available with different prices depending on the airline choices you make accordingly. It’s always better to be informed of the fees and policies in advance to avoid any unexpected costs during your trip.

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Alternatives to Flying with Golf Clubs

If you’re not up for the hassle of transporting your clubs through airlines, there are a few alternatives to flying with golf clubs that might make your life easier.

One option is to rent golf clubs at your destination. This is particularly useful if you’re on a golf trip and don’t want to travel with all of your gear.

Many golf courses have rental sets available, so be sure to call ahead and reserve them in advance. Keep in mind that rental fees can vary depending on the quality of the club and the course you’re playing at, but it’s usually much cheaper than flying with your own set.

Another alternative is shipping your golf clubs ahead of time using services such as Ship Sticks or FedEx. These companies specialize in transporting golf clubs from one location to another, so they often have better equipment and experience than airlines when it comes to handling club safety.

However, shipping fees can add up quickly, depending on how far you’re sending them and how fast you need them delivered. If renting or shipping aren’t viable options for you, consider packing your clubs in a large suitcase instead of using a dedicated club case.

This can help avoid some airline fees since checked bags usually come with no extra charge for the first couple of items. Just make sure to pack plenty of padding around each clubhead to prevent any damage during travel.

If you happen to be flying Southwest Airlines, you’re in luck! Southwest allows passengers to check two bags for free, including one set of golf clubs per person, as long as they’re within their size and weight limits.

So if possible, travel with Southwest Airlines so that you save more on transporting your own set of clubs without any additional fees involved. Ultimately, there are different options when it comes to traveling with your own set of golfing gear: renting sets at destination courses, shipping them using specialized golf transport services like Ship Sticks or FedEx, packing them into large suitcases and checking them as regular bags, and taking advantage of Southwest Airlines’ generous policy on checked bags. Depending on your budget and preference, each one has its pros and cons.

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Tips for Packing and Protecting Your Golf Clubs

When it comes to traveling with your precious set of clubs, it’s important to pack and protect them properly. Here are some tips on how to do just that.

Firstly, it’s recommended that you invest in a good-quality travel bag specifically designed for golf clubs. These bags are padded and provide extra protection for your set of sticks during transportation. Some bags even have wheels for easy maneuverability through airports.

Another option is to use a hard-shell case, which provides an even higher level of protection but can be heavier and bulkier to carry. Once you’ve selected your travel bag or case, the next step is packing your clubs correctly.

Start by removing any loose items from your golf bag, such as head covers and balls, and packing them separately in another bag or suitcase. Then, wrap each club individually with bubble wrap or towels to prevent any damage during transit.

It’s also important to ensure that the heads of your clubs are well protected. You can use head covers or pool noodles inserted into the bag around the club heads for extra padding.

When packing your bag into the travel case or bag, make sure that everything fits snugly but isn’t too tightly packed. Leaving some space between the clubs and other items in the bag will help prevent any damage from shifting during transport.

Consider purchasing insurance for your golf clubs when traveling. Many airlines offer limited coverage for lost or damaged baggage, but this may not be enough if you’re carrying expensive equipment such as golfing weapons!

There are also third-party companies offering specialized insurance just for golf club safety during travel. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your set of clubs arrives safely at its destination, so you can focus on enjoying some great rounds at new courses without worrying about baggage mishaps!

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Insurance Options for Golf Clubs

When it comes to traveling with your golf clubs, you may want to consider insuring them for added protection. Golf clubs can be an expensive investment, and the last thing you want is for them to be lost or damaged during transit. Here are some insurance options to consider when flying with your golf clubs.

One option is to purchase travel insurance that includes coverage for your golf equipment. Many travel insurance policies offer this type of coverage as an add-on, so make sure to check with your provider before purchasing.

This can provide peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected in case of loss, theft, or damage during transit. Keep in mind that some policies may have limitations on the amount of coverage offered.

Another option is to purchase a separate club safety policy specifically designed for traveling with golf equipment. Companies like Ship Sticks offer this type of coverage, which includes protection against loss or damage during transit as well as additional benefits such as overnight shipping and rental club reimbursement if necessary.

If you’re flying with a set of clubs that have sentimental value or are particularly expensive, it may be worth considering adding extra baggage protection through your airline. Some airlines, like Delta, offer a “Declare Value” service that allows you to declare the value of your checked baggage and pay an additional fee for added protection up to $3,500 per bag.

Some credit card companies offer travel insurance benefits that include coverage for lost or stolen luggage, including golf bag equipment. Check with your credit card company before traveling to see what kind of coverage they offer and if there are any restrictions or limitations.

While it may cost extra money upfront, insuring your golf clubs can provide peace of mind knowing that they are protected during transit. Consider all available options, including travel insurance add-ons, club safety policies from companies like Ship Sticks, airline baggage protection services, and credit card travel benefits, before deciding on how best to protect your valuable golf equipment.

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Conclusion

Flying with golf clubs can be a bit of a hassle and an added expense, but it’s something that many golfers find necessary for their golf trips. Depending on the airline and policies, fees can vary greatly, from a reasonable price to something quite costly.

However, there are different options available to help you save money if you plan ahead. One option to consider is renting clubs at your destination instead of bringing your own.

Many golf courses offer rental sets for a reasonable fee, and this can save you the hassle and cost of checking your bags or shipping your clubs. Another option is shipping your clubs ahead of time using companies like Ship Sticks.

While this may come with additional fees, it can also provide peace of mind knowing that your clubs will arrive safely at your destination. It’s important to keep club safety in mind when traveling with golf equipment.

Be sure to pack them properly and use protective covers where necessary to prevent damage during transit. Consider purchasing insurance options offered by airlines or third-party providers in case any damage occurs during travel.

Overall, while there are fees involved in flying with golf clubs, it’s still worth it for many avid golfers who want to enjoy their favorite sport while traveling. Just be sure to do your research ahead of time and consider all the different options available so that you can find the most affordable and convenient way to transport your clubs on your next golf trip.

FAQs

Can I bring my golf clubs as carry-on luggage?

It depends on the airline. Some allow them as carry-on if they meet size and weight restrictions, while others require checking them as baggage.

Are there any extra fees for bringing my golf clubs on a flight?

Yes, expect additional fees for flying with golf clubs. These fees vary by airline and can range from $30 to $150 per bag, each way. Some airlines may also charge extra for oversized or overweight bags.

Can I pack other items in my golf bag?

Yes, you can usually pack other items in your golf bag as long as they comply with airline regulations. However, exceeding the weight limit or packing prohibited items could result in additional fees or penalties.

Should I consider shipping my golf clubs instead of flying with them?

Shipping your clubs can be an alternative if you’re concerned about costs or damage during air travel. Shipping companies specialize in golf gear, but keep in mind shipping can take longer and may not be ideal for last-minute trips.

How can I save money on fees for flying with golf clubs?

There are a few ways to save on fees. Look for airlines with lower golf club charges, consider purchasing a lighter travel bag for your clubs, or try to find deals and promotions on baggage fees. Flying during off-peak times and sharing a checked bag with a companion can also help reduce costs.

What happens if my golf clubs are damaged during the flight?

If your clubs are damaged, keep your baggage claim receipt, take photos of the damage as soon as you receive your clubs, and then file a claim with the airline. Most airlines have a process for filing damage claims on their website.

Are there any restrictions on the type of golf clubs I can bring on a flight?

Generally, there are no restrictions on the type of golf clubs you can bring, but some airlines may have size and weight limitations for your golf bag. It’s always best to check the airline’s policy directly before you fly.

What happens if my golf clubs are lost by the airline?

If your golf clubs are lost by the airline, you may be compensated for their value. However, most airlines have a limit on their liability for lost baggage. To ensure full coverage, consider purchasing travel insurance that covers the value of your golf clubs.

How far in advance should I declare that I'm flying with golf clubs?

Some airlines require you to declare that you’ll be flying with golf clubs in advance, especially during peak travel times. This is to ensure there’s enough space for your clubs on the plane. Check the airline’s policy directly to see if advance notice is required.

Are there any alternative ways to transport my golf clubs?

Yes, there are a few alternative ways to transport your golf clubs besides flying with them. Here are two options:

Ship your golf clubs through specialized companies that handle golf equipment. While shipping takes longer than flying, it can be a good option if you’re concerned about damage or fees.
Rent clubs at your destination golf course. This can be a convenient option if you’re only playing a few rounds of golf and don’t want to deal with the hassle of bringing your own clubs.

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Toni Benedito

Hi there, I'm Toni Benedito, the person behind Better Golf Nation. You know, I was only 12 when I first became fascinated with golf. It's the sheer skill and accuracy of the game that really draws me in, especially when it comes to golf equipment. I love nothing more than sharing what I've learned and helping others take their game to the next level. So why not join us? We're all about nurturing a vibrant golf community where everyone learns and improves together. Step by step, insight by insight, we're building a Better Golf Nation.