Travelling with golf clubs is like traveling with pets; even when it’s allowed, you don’t know how to do it. Since golf clubs are super expensive, you can’t go buying new golf clubs every time you go on an out-of-state golfing trip. Plus, if you’re an avid golfer, you’re probably used to the touch and feel of your golf club that even if you buy the same model, it doesn’t feel quite the same.
Knowing how to travel with golf clubs is essential for any golfing enthusiast eager to try out golf courses across the country and worldwide. The problem with traveling with golf clubs isn’t just how it will fit in the plane or truck. There’s also the issue of your golf clubs bending or even breaking while in transit.
Of course, you can always rent a golf club once you get to your destination, but that won’t do for most folks. If you want peak performance wherever you go golfing, then you’ll have to bring your weaponry with you.
In this post, we’ll be highlighting some amazing tips for traveling with golf clubs. That way, you don’t have to fret on your next out-of-state golfing trip.
1. Choose the Proper Case for Your Golf Clubs
You have two options when it comes to golf club cases; hard and soft cases. The latter is easier to pack but is not as sturdy as the hard case. Hard cases are harder to pack, but offer better protection for your golf clubs during your trip.
As you can tell by the name, soft cases are made of soft material like nylon, making them light and easy to carry. Hard cases, on the other hand, are made of rigid material that protects the golf clubs from breaking. Most airlines will only cover your damaged clubs if they were in a hard case.
If you’re going on a long-distance journey, then hard cases are a better option. For shorter trips, a soft case will do just fine.
2. Use the Right Size for Your Bag
Golf clubs come in different sizes, and the worst mistake you could make is traveling with the wrong size golf bag. Your golf club and other stuff will fit snugly in a smaller golf travel bag as opposed to a larger one. Larger golf traveling bags are also harder to fit in the trunk.
However, if you buy a bag that’s too small, you won’t be able to pack everything you need for your journey. This could be a great inconvenience and very expensive when you have to buy all the stuff you couldn’t carry. When you’re out shopping for a golf traveling bag, make sure you buy the right size for your convenience and golf clubs’ safety.
3. Book a Non-Stop Flight
Try your best to book a non-stop flight when you fly with golf clubs. If you’re switching flights in between, you’re only giving the baggage handlers another go at your golf clubs. If they get a little sloppy with your clubs, you may end up with bent or even broken golf clubs.
To sidestep baggage handlers, book a non-stop flight so you won’t have to connect flights. What’s more, non-stop flights are also very convenient and will save you the hassle of having to switch flights. If you’re flying with your best golf clubs, then non-stop flights are the way to go.
You’ll have to pay a little more for a non-stop flight, but it’s nothing that will break the bank. For the sake of your golf clubs, fly non-stop, if possible. Also, note that there’s a difference between non-stop and direct flights; most people confuse the two.
4. Pack Everything You Can
Besides your 14 golf clubs, there’s a lot more you can pack inside your golf club. You should also consider packing your shoes, golf balls, towels, socks, and tees. If necessary, also pack your sweater and rain gear, especially if you’re visiting the best Irish golf courses.
What you shouldn’t carry are all your expensive items. If you have any expensive watches, leave them behind or carry them in your pocket. Your range finder plus and jewelry should not stay in your golf bag; You’re better off carrying these items in your personal bag.
Not to mention that your golf bag with all your sticks will be underweight. So don’t be afraid to stuff a couple of other items in your golf bag. Items like clothes and towels may even act as cushioning for your golf bags.
5. Take Pictures of Your Bags and the Items It Carries
Once you’ve snagged yourself a reliable bag, make sure you take pictures of the bag and all the items in the bag. That way, you can hold the airline accountable for any damage to your bag and the items inside it. Bag handlers may not be very gentle with your bags, and that never ends well for your golf clubs and your bag too.
Take pictures of your bags before handing it over to the bag handlers. Make sure the pictures are crisp and clear and can also be dated. If something happens to your items in transit, you can file a claim with the airline and get compensation for the damage.
6. Remove the Clubheads
Removing the clubheads from all your golf clubs takes a lot of time, but it’s for the best. Doing so significantly reduces the chances of your golf clubs breaking. To remember how your settings were before removing the golf clubs, snap a quick pic of all the clubs.
7. Place the Clubs Upside Down in Your Bag
Carry your golf clubs upside down in your golf bag to protect the hosel and the lower portion of the shaft. These are the parts most vulnerable to bending and breaking, and by flipping the clubs upside down, you’ll be putting these parts out of harm’s way.
The Only Tips on How to Travel With Golf Clubs You’ll Ever Need
The above tips are all you’ll ever need to know how to travel with golf clubs. Next time there’s a golfing trip, don’t be afraid to carry your best golf clubs with you. In most situations, the golfer is only as good as their golf club.
Golfing is an exciting travel sport, along with several others. For more enticing reads on all matters travel, be sure to check out the other pieces on the site.
Leave a Reply