Summary
- The TSA requires that golf clubs be checked as baggage – they are not permitted in carry-on luggage.
- Passengers can travel with a golf bag full of clubs, balls, tees and shoes.
- Airlines like Delta and American allow golf bags up to 115 inches in size with no oversize fees when packed in hard-shell suitcases.
The good news is that most airlines in the US allow passengers to bring most sports equipment – although this equipment will count towards your baggage allowance. There are many things to know about certain pieces of equipment, like golf clubs (just as there are certain things to know about bringing winter sports equipment and cricket equipment on a plane).
1 Must be checked
TSA requires inspection of golf clubs
|
As hand luggage: |
not approved by the TSA |
|---|---|
|
As checked baggage: |
approved by the TSA |
|
Sports equipment regulations: |
different |
The TSA usually allows golf clubs and other sporting equipment to be carried on board an aircraft, but only accepts checked baggage. Clubs can be used as weapons and are therefore not permitted as carry-on baggage. Most sporting equipment (with a few notable exceptions) can be checked on a flight – even guns and ammunition are permitted, but must be declared to the airline, securely packed, and various regulations followed.
Photo: Wenjie Zheng | Shutterstock
Note that while the TSA states that golf clubs are allowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft, it also states: “The final decision as to whether an item will be allowed through the checkpoint rests with the TSA officer..” Regarding golf balls, please refer to the specific TSA regulations for transporting sports balls on flights.
Related
Explained: Traveling with ice hockey equipment
If you are traveling with ice hockey equipment, allow plenty of time at the airport.
2 Passengers can travel with a golf bag
A golf set in a golf bag with a pair of shoes is usually allowed
|
Number of golf bags: |
One |
|---|---|
|
Allowed content: |
Golf clubs, golf balls, golf tees, golf shoes |
|
Number of golf shoes: |
a couple |
United Airlines, American Airlines and Delta Air Lines allow passengers to bring a golf bag on the flight. American Airlines states that the bag may contain golf clubs, golf balls, golf tees and a pair of golf shoes. Delta states that passengers may bring a golf bag containing a set of golf clubs, balls, tees and a pair of golf shoes.
Photo: Travel man | Shutterstock
Please note that American Airlines does not allow passengers to travel with wingless golf club loading strips. Standard baggage fees apply to golf bags. Delta Air Lines charges the appropriate overweight fee for golf bags weighing over 50 pounds.
Related
The advantages and disadvantages of taking skateboards on a plane
Did you know that you can take your skateboard on board?
3 No oversize fees
Golf bags are usually allowed up to a size of 115 inches
|
Oversize fee: |
none |
|---|---|
|
Maximum mention: |
115 linear inches (Delta) |
|
Weight limit: |
usually 50 pounds |
A golf club bag counts as part of the passenger’s baggage allowance. American Airlines explains: “Your destination’s standard checked baggage fees up to 50 lbs / 23 kg and a standard excess baggage fee over 50 lbs / 23 kg up to 70 lbs / 32 kg apply. Excess baggage fees do not apply..”
Photo: Wirestock Creators | Shutterstock
Delta Air Lines also says passengers will not be charged oversize fees for golf bags, but notes that excess baggage fees may apply. It also notes that the size of golf bags may cause a delay in baggage claim. Delta says golf bags will not be accepted if the outside linear dimensions (length + width + height) exceed 115 linear inches.
Related
Oversized luggage: everything you need to know
A look at the additional costs and special procedures for travelling with excess baggage
4 Pack in a hard case
Always pack golf clubs in a hard case to prevent damage
|
Airline liability: |
Normally no liability for damage unless packed in a hard case |
|---|---|
|
Soft case: |
You may be required to sign a liability waiver |
|
Tip: |
Wrap club heads in towels or cloth |
Some airlines, such as United Airlines, require golf clubs to be packed in a hard-shell suitcase. Delta Air Lines says clubs must be “securely packed,” then clarifies that this means they must be packed in a hard-shell suitcase or soft golf travel bag after a limited release is signed. Golf clubs can be damaged or broken when transported in soft suitcases.
Photo: Minh K Tran | Shutterstock
A passenger on Southwest’s flight broke his golf clubs and demanded compensation. Southwest rejected the claim, stating: “In this particular case, sports equipment packed in a soft case is considered improperly packaged as it generally cannot withstand normal handling. For this reason, we recommend customers pack their sports equipment in hard cases for adequate protection. We regret that we cannot accept liability for your claim..”
Related
Taking a surfboard on a plane: what rules and requirements apply?
Some airlines allow you to take a surfboard for free, while others charge a fee for bulky luggage.
5 Consider shipping
Surplus golf clubs can be shipped via freight forwarders
|
Cost: |
From $49 (Ship Sticks) |
|---|---|
|
Insurance: |
Often covered by shipping |
|
Optional shipping companies: |
Ship’s sticks, My luggage |
If packing golf clubs is too much, or if passengers have more than one set and the airline’s restriction of a golf bag with one set and one pair of golf shoes is too restrictive, there is the option of having them shipped. Some companies that can ship golf clubs are Ship Sticks and My Baggage.
Photo: Delta Air Lines
These companies can pick up the golf clubs from people’s homes or a specific location. Shipping the clubs is usually more expensive than flying, but it makes it easier to get through the airport. While packing golf clubs on flights in the US is relatively straightforwardsometimes it may be easier to adjust it at the other end.
