Miles Bennett
Travelling with golf clubs can be a challenging task, but with the right preparation, it can be a breeze. Whether you're flying to a new course or driving to one closer to home, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, decide whether you want to bring your own clubs, rent at your destination, or ship them ahead of time. Each option has its pros and cons, and choosing the right one for you can make all the difference. If you do decide to bring your own clubs, investing in a high-quality travel bag and carefully packing your clubs can ensure they arrive safely. Additionally, being mindful of baggage restrictions and planning your journey can help you avoid unnecessary stress and fees. With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to a smooth golf trip.
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What You'll Learn
Shipping your golf clubs
There are several shipping services that can help you get your golf clubs to your destination safely, including FedEx, UPS, and Ship Sticks. These services typically involve scheduling a pickup or arranging a drop-off, printing and attaching a label, and letting the shipping company take care of the rest. The cost of shipping your golf clubs is generally higher than baggage fees, but you can reduce the cost by shipping your clubs early. For example, shipping your clubs from California to Pinehurst, NC, seven business days before you need them would cost less than $80, whereas overnight shipping would add $100.
Before shipping your golf clubs, it is important to pack them securely to prevent damage during transit. Here are some packing tips to consider:
- Use a high-quality travel bag with plenty of padding to protect your clubs.
- If you're using a soft travel bag, consider adding a "stiff arm" to help maintain its shape.
- Wrap your clubs in bubble wrap and tape the shafts together to prevent them from hitting each other.
- If your clubs have adjustable hosels, remove the heads during travel and write down your club settings.
- Fill any voids in the box with additional bubble wrap, inflatable air cushioning, or padded paper to limit unwanted rattling.
- Add two inches of cushioning around the bag and at the bottom of the box before sliding the bag inside.
- Consider purchasing an aluminum support rod to protect the tallest club in the bag, which will endure the most force during transport.
- Use towels and clothing to wrap around any exposed clubs sticking out of the bag.
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Packing a high-quality travel bag
There are two types of golf travel bags: soft and hard. Soft bags tend to be lighter and easier to manoeuvre, but hard cases offer more protection. If you opt for a soft bag, consider adding a "stiff arm" to help the bag maintain its shape and provide vertical strength. In a pinch, a sturdy broomstick or telescoping ski pole can serve the same purpose. Alternatively, place a standard bucket over the tops of your clubs before zipping up your bag, or turn the clubs upside down to protect the heads.
To pack your bag effectively, start by removing any club heads and placing them in a pocket of your golf bag. This will protect the meeting point of the club head and shaft, which is the section most likely to break in transit. Be sure to mark down your club settings for easy reassembly. Then, wrap your clubs in bubble wrap and tape the shafts together to prevent them from knocking against each other. If using a soft bag, you can also wrap your clubs in towels or clothing to provide extra padding. Golf towels can also be used to fill extra space in the top of your bag.
Finally, remember to pack your rangefinder or GPS device in your carry-on bag, rather than your checked luggage. This will ensure that your most valuable items stay close at hand.
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Preparing for the climate
First, don't just glance at the overall weather forecast; pay attention to the hourly temperatures. A daily high of 70 degrees Fahrenheit doesn't necessarily mean it won't be chilly in the morning. So, always bring layering options. This could include a nice pullover and a ¾ sleeve windbreaker. You can also pack rain pants, which are versatile and easy to take off if it warms up during your game.
Second, consider the weight of your clothing choices. Golf balls are heavy, and if you carry too many, you may end up paying overweight bag fees. So, try to avoid bringing an excessive number of golf balls in your bag. Additionally, consider removing the heads of your golf clubs during travel, as they are the sections most likely to break in transit. Wrap the clubs in bubble wrap and tape the shafts together to prevent damage.
Third, invest in a high-quality travel bag with durable wheels, outer pockets, and a waterproof liner. A soft travel bag is generally lighter and easier to manoeuvre, while a hard case provides more protection but can be heavier. Consider adding a "stiff arm" to your bag, which will help maintain its shape and add vertical strength, providing extra protection for your clubs.
Finally, if you're travelling to a colder climate, make sure to pack a golf jacket and extra clothing items that you don't mind getting wrinkled. Wrapping towels and clothing around exposed clubs can help prevent damage during travel, and they can also serve as a buffer if you need to stuff them into your bag on the way home.
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Avoiding baggage fees
Golfers often struggle to work out their baggage allowance and fees, and many have fallen victim to excessive airline charges. To avoid this, it is important to do your research and plan ahead.
Firstly, check the policies of the airline you are flying with. Each airline has its own rules on what you can and can't do, and weight and size restrictions for "'oversized" or "overweight" baggage. Some airlines require that sports equipment is packed in a secure, purpose-designed bag, and rules vary between airlines. A fully loaded golf bag can weigh between 15-20kg, so check weight limits carefully to avoid excess baggage fees. Dimensions are also important, as going over the specification could lead to fees.
Some airlines, such as Southwest, allow two free checked bags, including golf bags. However, other airlines, such as American Airlines, charge $35 online and $40 at the airport for checked bags. Golf equipment is considered one golf bag with up to 14 golf clubs, 12 golf balls, and one pair of golf shoes. Pack your golf shoes in your bag to save space in your main luggage.
If baggage costs are too high, you could consider renting clubs at your destination. Alternatively, ship your clubs ahead of time using a specialist shipping company like Send My Bag, My Baggage, or Ship Sticks in the US. Shipping your clubs early can reduce costs, but you will need to plan your trip carefully.
To avoid additional charges, pre-pay online wherever possible. Some airlines will charge you double the online fee to check in a bag at the airport or gate. Always use a carry-on for your golf clothes and only check your golf bag. Golfers can reuse clothing items once per trip, so pack smart to fit everything into your carry-on.
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Protecting your clubs
Golf clubs are expensive, and you want to make sure they are protected when travelling. Here are some tips to ensure they arrive safely and in one piece.
Firstly, consider how you are going to transport your clubs. Shipping them to your destination is a good option, and companies like Ship Sticks and FedEx specialise in getting your golf clubs to your destination safely. This does require some planning, and it can be costly, but it reduces the number of people handling your clubs, reducing the risk of damage or loss. If you are flying, try to find a direct flight, and always pack your most valuable items in your carry-on bag.
If you are taking your clubs on a flight, a hard travel case is the best option. These are robust and will protect your clubs from damage. You can also get hard cases with coverage protection of up to $1500 for the contents. If you are using a soft bag, you can add a 'stiff arm' to help the bag maintain its shape.
When packing your clubs, you should wrap the clubheads in bubble wrap and tape the shafts together. This will prevent the clubs from hitting each other and getting damaged. You can also put a stick, or a cut-down hockey stick or broom handle, in the bag, which will take the impact if the bag is dropped. If your clubs have adjustable hosels, remove the heads and wrap them separately, and put them in the pocket of the bag.
Finally, use towels and clothing to wrap the exposed clubs sticking out of the bag. This will help prevent damage.
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Frequently asked questions
You can transport your golf clubs by plane, shipping them separately, or renting clubs when you arrive. If you choose to bring them on a plane, consider the extra fees you may incur for golf clubs and overweight baggage. Shipping your clubs separately can be cheaper and more convenient, but requires planning ahead.
To protect your golf clubs, use a high-quality travel bag with a lot of padding. You can also wrap your clubs in bubble wrap or a towel and stuff clothing inside the bag to prevent damage.
Be sure to pack golf essentials like golf balls, tees, gloves, and shoes. Also, bring layering options for different temperatures, such as a pullover, a windbreaker, and rain pants.
Keep your valuable items, such as a rangefinder or GPS device, with you in your carry-on bag instead of your golf travel bag.
To reduce stress, consider booking a direct flight and giving yourself time to complete a flexibility and mobility routine before and after your flight. Shipping your clubs ahead of time can also reduce the hassle of carrying and claiming baggage at the airport.
