When traveling with American Airlines, as a golfer you will need to know the golf bag policy. We’ve got a handy and complete guide of everything you need to know.

Golfers can rest easy knowing that the airline has a specific policy in place to accommodate needs when traveling with your clubs and golf equipment.

Here’s a breakdown of the full American Airlines’ Golf Bag Policy to ensure you’re well-prepared for your next golfing vacation.

American Airlines Golf Bag Policy Overview

American Airlines allows passengers to check their golf bags as part of their standard baggage allowance.

A golf bag can be checked in lieu of one piece of luggage under the standard baggage policy. This means if your ticket allows for a free checked bag, your golf bag can be part of this allowance.

Size, Dimensions & Weight

It’s important to note the size and weight restrictions.

The linear dimensions (length + width + height) of the golf bag must not exceed 126 inches (320 cm), and the weight must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg) to avoid additional fees.

Fees and Restrictions

There are no additional fees for checking a golf bag if it falls within the standard checked baggage allowance for your ticket type and does not exceed the size and weight limits.

However, if you have already used your baggage allowance or your golf bag exceeds the allowed size or weight, standard excess baggage fees will apply.

The fees vary depending on your destination and ticket type, so it’s advisable to check with American Airlines directly for the most current information.

Packing Your Golf Bag

When packing your golf bag for flight with American Airlines, ensure that all clubs are securely fastened and protected.

While American Airlines will handle your golf bag with care, it’s recommended to use a hard case for the best protection.

In addition to clubs, you’re allowed to include golf balls and golf shoes in your bag. Keep in mind that any prohibited items listed by TSA should not be packed in your golf bag.

• RELATED: Delta Airlines Golf Clubs Policy

Do golf clubs count as checked bag on American Airlines?

Yes, golf clubs count as a checked bag on American Airlines. When flying with American Airlines, passengers are allowed to check their golf clubs as part of their standard baggage allowance.

This means if your ticket includes a free checked bag, your golf clubs can be included within this allowance, provided they adhere to the airline’s size and weight restrictions for checked baggage.

The key points to remember when checking golf clubs on American Airlines are:

Size and Weight Limits

The total linear dimensions (length + width + height) of the golf bag must not exceed 126 inches (320 cm), and the bag must weigh no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) to avoid incurring extra fees.

Packing and Protection

It’s advised to securely pack and protect your golf clubs. Using a hard case golf bag is recommended for the best protection during transit.

Included Items

Alongside golf clubs, passengers may include golf balls and golf shoes in their golf bag.
If the golf bag meets these requirements, it will be considered as one piece of your checked baggage.

If you exceed your baggage allowance or your golf bag is oversized or overweight according to American Airlines’ baggage policies, standard excess baggage fees will apply.

• RELATED: United Airlines Golf Clubs Policy

How much do American Airlines charge for golf clubs?

American Airlines typically does not charge extra fees for checking golf clubs as long as they meet the standard baggage allowance in terms of weight and size.

Your golf clubs can be checked as one of your pieces of luggage. Here are the key points to remember regarding fees:

Within Baggage Allowance

If your golf bag, including the clubs and any other items it contains, does not exceed the airline’s size and weight limits (50 pounds or 23 kg in weight and 126 inches or 320 cm in linear dimensions), it will be considered as part of your standard checked baggage.

This means if your ticket type includes a free checked bag, your golf clubs can be included at no extra charge.

Exceeding Baggage Allowance

If you’ve already used your checked baggage allowance or if your golf bag exceeds the size or weight limits, standard excess baggage fees will apply. The fees for excess baggage depend on your destination and ticket type.

Special Considerations

While American Airlines typically includes golf bags within the standard baggage policy, it’s important to note that policies can vary and may be subject to change.

Additionally, the airline advises that the golf bag can include golf clubs, golf balls, and golf shoes, provided the total weight does not exceed the limits.

Do I need a special bag to fly with golf clubs?

While you do not need a “special” bag per se to fly with golf clubs, airlines, including American Airlines, highly recommend using a hard-sided golf travel bag for better protection of your clubs during transit.

The key considerations when selecting a bag for flying with golf clubs are protection, durability, and airline requirements.

Protection and Durability

Hard-Sided Golf Travel Bags

These offer the highest level of protection against impacts, compressions, and the general handling that occurs with checked luggage. They are designed to protect your clubs from being damaged and are the preferred choice for air travel.

Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bags

These are lighter and often more convenient to store than hard-sided cases. Many soft-sided bags offer substantial padding and reinforced areas to protect the club heads.

While they may not provide as much protection as hard cases, high-quality soft-sided bags are suitable for air travel, especially if they are further secured with a stiff arm (a telescopic pole that extends above the height of the longest club to absorb impacts).

Airline Requirements

Airlines generally have guidelines for the size and weight of the golf bag but do not specify the type of golf bag you must use.

For American Airlines, the linear dimensions of the bag (length + width + height) must not exceed 126 inches (320 cm), and the bag must weigh no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) to avoid extra fees.

Tips for Traveling with Golf Clubs

Padding

Regardless of the type of bag, use additional padding around club heads and ensure clubs are tightly packed to prevent movement.

Identification

Clearly label your bag with your contact information in case it gets misplaced.

Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance and golf insurance that covers sports equipment, as airline liability for lost or damaged items may be limited.