Bottom line. A quality golf travel bag should be durable, protective, and easy to maneuver. It is designed to hold not only golf clubs but also other accessories such as balls, tees, and gloves, ensuring that everything a golfer needs is readily available. I am about to hit the friendly skies and did some research before deciding on which golf travel bag (sometimes called travel cover) would protect my golf clubs.
When purchasing a golf travel bag, it’s essential to consider factors such as the bag’s capacity, material, padding, wheels, and security features. Golfers should choose a bag that can comfortably accommodate their full set of clubs and provides ample space for additional accessories. I’m thinking range finder, golf watch, only a handful of plastic tees but a whole bunch of golf balls. Paying attention to materials will determine the bag’s durability and level of protection, while a well-padded bag ensures the safety of the clubs during transit. Easy maneuverability is crucial, especially for air travel, so wheels or handles are a must.
Taking all these considerations into account, we set out on a mission to find the best golf travel bags on the market that meet the needs of golf enthusiasts, from the casual player to the serious competitor.
Best Golf Travel Bags
We’ve researched and compiled a list of the top golf travel bags to keep your clubs protected and organized during your next trip. Here are our top picks:
Himal Outdoors Golf Travel Bag
We believe the Himal Outdoors Golf Travel Bag is a great value for keeping your clubs protected during travel.
Pros
- Durable, made of 600D heavy duty polyester oxford
- Universal size with ample space for clubs and accessories
- Smooth-rolling wheels for easy transportation
Cons
- Soft-sided design may be less secure than hard cases
- Driver might not fit for some golf bags
The Himal Outdoors Golf Travel Bag offers a solid level of protection for your clubs at a reasonable price. Made of premium 600D heavy duty polyester oxford, this bag is tough enough to withstand the rigors of travel. With a universal size of 15 x 13 x 50 inches, it offers plenty of space for your clubs, shoes, and other essentials.
The smooth-rolling wheels on the travel bag make maneuvering through airports and train stations a breeze. The bag also features an advanced zipper design and soft cushioning for added comfort and protection. The Velcro carrying handle is a particularly useful feature for lugging the bag when needed.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The soft-sided design, while lightweight and easy to manage, may not offer the same level of protection as a hard case. 600D is a little bit on the light side when it comes to thickness. Some users found that their driver did not fit comfortably within the bag, and one user noticed a wear hole after a couple of trips. Despite these issues, the Himal Outdoors Golf Travel Bag is a solid choice for those seeking a convenient and affordable way to protect their clubs during travel. Catch this one on sale and you may be able to purchase for around $50.
Amazon Basics Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag
This affordable and durable golf travel bag is perfect for hassle-free transportation of your golf clubs.
Pros
- Durable 1800D polyester fabric
- Smooth-rolling, inline-skate-style wheels
- Heavily padded top section to protect club heads
Cons
- Limited number of pockets (2)
- No internal dividers
A friend purchased the Amazon Basics Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag, used it on a quick weekend trip and was impressed with its overall performance. The durable 1800D polyester fabric helps to keep clubs secure and the bag itself looked solid after going through airport handling. With smooth-rolling, inline-skate-style wheels, he said it was easy to transport from one point to another.
It has a heavily padded top section, which provided extra protection to our club heads. There are multiple zippered compartments for storing additional gear, but it would have been better if there were more pockets or internal dividers. Despite having only two pockets and one divider, this golf travel bag did the job it was supposed to.
In comparison to high-end golf travel bags, the Amazon Basics Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag may not have all the bells and whistles. However, for the price, it certainly does the job effectively. If you’re in need of a reliable golf travel bag without breaking the bank, this is a great option to consider.
CaddyDaddy Golf Constrictor 2 Travel Cover Black/Navy
The CaddyDaddy Golf Constrictor 2 is a solid investment for protecting your golf clubs during travel, offering impressive features at a competitive price.
Pros
- Durable 1800D fabric construction
- Heavy padding on top for club protection
- Inline skate wheels for easy transportation
Cons
- Tight fit for cart bags
- Limited color options
We recently traveled with the CaddyDaddy Golf Constrictor 2 and found it to be well-designed for protecting golf clubs during air and auto travel. The 1800D fabric construction is durable (three times thicker than 600D fabric) and adds extra padding around the bag, ensuring our clubs were safe from any unexpected bumps during the trip. This is my personal choice for golf travel bags, with a combination of having enough sturdiness yet not breaking the bank.
The transportation of the bag was a breeze, thanks to its inline skate wheels. My wife and I (well mostly me) could easily glide the bag through airports and parking lots without any hassle. Additionally, the two oversized pockets provided ample space to store extra golf gear and accessories. Yes, you have to trust the airlines but I guess that is why we also keep receipts… just in case.
While the fabric is quite strong, we can see how it could wear with heavy use over time. That being said, it is noticeably thicker than some on the market and that in part was why I chose this one. Not a whole lot of color choices but what do you really need?
Overall, the CaddyDaddy Golf Constrictor 2 serves as an excellent travel companion for protecting your golf clubs and equipment during your adventures. Its combination of quality materials, thoughtful design, and competitive price make it a worthwhile purchase for any golfer.
DAREKUKU Padded Golf Travel Bag
We highly recommend the DAREKUKU Padded Golf Travel Bag for its durability, convenient storage, and ease of transportation.
Pros
- Durable 900D heavy duty polyester material
- Smooth rolling rubber wheels
- Convenient extra storage pocket
Cons
- May not be large enough for some users
- Can be a bit tipsy
The bag’s 900D heavy duty polyester material offers great protection against sudden bumps and jostles, ensuring that our clubs remained in pristine condition throughout the journey.
The upgraded rubber wheels on the bag were a big plus, as they make it effortless to transport gear between shuttle stations, bus stops, and airports. The wheels roll smoothly, making it easy to maneuver the bag even when fully loaded with clubs, shoes, and accessories.
One of the features we appreciated most about the DAREKUKU Golf Travel Bag was the extra storage pocket provided for golf shoes and other accessories. We also liked the card pocket, which came in handy for keeping our IDs and credit cards within easy reach. The adjustable shoulder strap and carrying handle also provided multiple ways to carry the bag, according to our preferences.
On the downside, some users might find that the bag isn’t large enough for their needs. Moreover, while it’s excellent value for money, the travel bag can be slightly tipsy when standing upright. Having said that, all of the soft bags can have issues in staying upright if they aren’t balanced properly. Lastly, the bag is only available in black, which may not appeal to everyone.
Overall, the DAREKUKU Padded Golf Travel Bag with Wheels is a reliable and convenient option for transporting golf clubs and gear. Its durability, smooth wheels, and extra storage make it an excellent choice for golf enthusiasts looking for a quality travel bag.
APTY Padded Golf Club Travel Bag with Wheels
We recommend the APTY Padded Golf Club Travel Bag for golfers seeking a durable, spacious, and convenient travel bag to protect their clubs.
Pros
- Sturdy 1200D Oxford fabric
- Large space for clubs and extra gear
- Multiple layers of protection
Cons
- Could be heavier for some
- May be too large for minimalist golfers
After using the APTY Padded Golf Club Travel Bag, we noticed that the 1200D Oxford fabric was indeed durable compared to the common 600D Oxford found in other bags. This gave us peace of mind when traveling with our clubs.
The bag offers a generous space of 15″ x 14″ x 50″ that easily accommodated our full set of golf clubs along with extra gear like shoes, shirts, and keys. The added convenience of separate compartments and extra storage was really helpful when organizing our items.
We appreciate the bag’s multi-layered defense system, including heavy padding at the top, lockable zippers, and a waterproof coating layer. These features truly protected our clubs during our travels. However, some may find the bag a bit heavier due to these added layers.
One potential drawback for some golfers might be the limited color options available. Nonetheless, APTY Padded Golf Club Travel Bag is an excellent investment we believe many would enjoy. Its durability, ample storage, and protective features are ideal for those who travel frequently with their clubs.
So, if you are looking for a reliable and convenient way to transport your golf clubs, this APTY Padded Golf Club Travel Bag might be the perfect fit for you.
Sun Mountain Golf ClubGlider Meridian Club Cover Travel Bag Black
This Sun Mountain golf travel bag is perfect for making your golf trips hassle-free and enjoyable.
Pros
- Effortless maneuverability with pivoting wheels
- Dense foam padding for club protection
- Convenient exterior pockets for extra gear
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some alternatives
- Price may be on the higher side
I have a friend of a friend who has the Sun Mountain Golf ClubGlider Meridian Club Cover Travel Bag. We play in a scramble once a year but he likes to travel with his wife or go on trips with just the guys and these trips always involve golf. In fact there are usually a couple guys getaways each year that go for 4-7 days a a time. I’ve been invited to one and I just need to find a way to break it to my wife. Anyway you can see by the picture that the leg mechanism allows for easy extending and retracting, which makes this Sun Mountain travel bag different from nearly every product on the market.
The heavy-duty, two-way zippers made it a breeze to pack clubs, and the exterior access pockets are perfect for stashing extra gear. It offers dense foam padding on the top, which added an extra layer of protection for clubs during transport.
Please note that this bag is a bit heavier than some other options on the market, and the price might be a deterrent for some budget-conscious golfers. Also, the bag is only available in black, which might not be everyone’s first choice in color.
If you want THE go to golf travel bag and you don’t mind spending some extra bills, I highly recommend Sun Mountain to anyone looking for a top-quality, durable, and easy-to-maneuver golf travel bag.
Samsonite Hard Side Golf Midnight Black
A reliable golf travel bag with exceptional quality, suitable for golf enthusiasts seeking protection and convenience during travel.
Pros
- Lightweight and durable ABS shell
- Accommodates larger golf bags and 48″ clubs
- Effortless mobility with spinner and in-line skate wheels
Cons
- Exterior might show wear-and-tear during air travel
- Rubber on wheels could potentially detach after extended use
Our experience with the Samsonite Hard Side Golf Travel Case left us largely impressed. The solid ABS protective shell made us confident in the safe transit of our golf clubs, and the padded quilted interior provided impressive cushioning for club heads. With the internal compression straps, our golf bag stayed secure throughout the journey.
Mobility was a standout feature with this travel case. The combination of spinner wheels and in-line skate wheels made pushing and pulling the case a breeze, even in crowded airports. Maneuvering around tight spaces was hassle-free, making travel that much more enjoyable.
One drawback we found is that the hard shell might show signs of wear-and-tear after a few flights due to rough handling at airports. Moreover, some users reported wheel rubber detachment after multiple trips. Despite these issues, the Samsonite golf travel case remains a top choice for golfers who prioritize both protection and convenience. With its five-year limited warranty and stylish design available in black or titanium, we believe this investment is well worth it for those seeking an optimal golf travel experience.
Buying Guide
When searching for the perfect golf travel bag, there are several features to consider that will help make the experience seamless and ensure protection for our precious clubs. In this buying guide, we will cover some essential factors to keep in mind.
Durability: The material of the bag is crucial for ensuring long-lasting protection. Look for bags made with heavy-duty fabric, such as 1800D or higher polyester, to resist tears and abrasions. reinforced handles, durable zippers, and reinforced corners also add to the bag’s durability.
Padding: A well-padded bag is essential for protecting our clubs during transit. We should opt for bags with padded interiors, club head covers, and extra padding around the top to safeguard the clubheads and shafts.
Mobility: Frequent travelers know how important it is to have a bag that’s easy to maneuver. Invest in a bag with high-quality, smooth-rolling wheels and multiple grab handles. Some bags even feature a stand mechanism that keeps the bag upright for hassle-free transportation.
Size and Weight: There’s always a balance between the need for durability and the desire for a lightweight bag that’s easy to move around. Large, hard-shell cases may provide maximum protection but can be cumbersome. Opt for a bag that meets our individual requirements, considering factors like our club size and additional travel gear.
Extra Features: Some additional features can enhance our golf travel experience:
- Multiple pockets for storing golf accessories and personal belongings
- Lockable zippers for added security
- External compression straps to keep the bag securely closed during travel
- Shoe compartment to store our golf shoes separately from our clubs
Remember, the perfect golf travel bag will offer a combination of durability, protection, mobility, and extra features that cater to our needs. Ensure to prioritize what’s crucial for us and make an informed decision. Happy shopping!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to pack golf clubs for travel?
When packing our golf clubs for travel, we want to ensure they’re protected from damage. Start by using a sturdy travel bag and adding extra padding around the club heads. I personally recommend removing the clubhead when possible (ie if your driver head is removable). We can also use shaft protectors for added security, making sure clubs are tightly packed without shifting during transit.
Does a golf bag count as luggage?
Yes, a golf bag typically counts as one piece of checked luggage. Most airlines have specific guidelines for golf bag dimensions and weight restrictions, so it’s essential to check with your carrier before flying.
How to travel with a golf bag?
To travel with a golf bag, we should invest in a high-quality bag that offers protection and durability. It’s also important to review the airline’s golf club policy and pack clubs according to their guidelines. Additionally, make sure to properly secure and label our bags for easy identification at baggage claim.
Are golf clubs free on airlines?
The policy on golf clubs varies between airlines. Some airlines allow us to check golf clubs for free, while others charge a fee. It’s crucial to check our airline’s specific policy on golf equipment before traveling.
What’s the most airline-friendly golf travel bag?
The most airline-friendly golf travel bag offers adequate protection, maneuverability, and meets airline size and weight requirements. Features like padded club compartments, high-quality zippers, and well-placed handles are essential for smooth travels. It’s crucial to read reviews and consider our travel needs when selecting the right golf bag.
How do I choose the right golf travel bag?
To choose the right golf travel bag, consider factors like our travel frequency, golf club dimensions, and airline policies. A lightweight, durable bag with ample padding and user-friendly design is ideal for protection and convenience. By comparing features, we can select a travel bag that fits our needs and budget.
Pro Tips When Using a Golf Travel Bag
I will add a couple things that initially escaped my mind when I first thought of using a golf travel bag. I’ve heard of driver heads being snapped off. So if there is an option to remove the head of the club, it is highly recommended. Just make sure you bring the appropriate allen wrench/golf club wrench that will work with that specific club or clubs.
Buy a travel support arm. It looks like the picture below. In fact it is the one I have. CaddyDaddy Golf North Pole Golf Club Protector Travel Support Arm. You place it in your golf bag and it reaches a height where it adds an added layer of protection which in theory should protect your golf clubs.
Buy bubble wrap. I use bubble wrap and along with a rubber band or ziptie, put this around each club. Again, anything to help a clubhead from being dinged up or being scratched. Yes, I might need a good reason to buy some new clubs but I’m not looking to spend money when I don’t have to (or want to).
Towels go a long way. Another added layer of protection. Make sure your clubs aren’t going to rattle around. Any gaps you can fill, so long as you don’t go over the airlines weight requirement will again protect your clubs. In lieu of towels, I’ve been known to pack some extra shirts in my golf travel bag. Just make sure your clubs are clean and there is no chance in messing up whatever extra shirts you may bring on your trip.
Finally, enjoy. Vacation is a time to relax and have fun. Play a nice course. Collect a scorecard or souvenir and most of all, make sure your clubs arrive in one piece both to and from your destination.
