When traveling with United 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 golf clubs and equipment.

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

United Airlines Golf Bag Policy Overview

When flying with United Airlines, you can bring one set of golf clubs as a checked bag, provided they’re in a hard-sided case.

This case can include one golf bag containing one set of clubs, golf balls, and one pair of golf shoes. An oversize fee won’t be charged for your golf bag, but be aware that overweight charges may apply.

United Airlines has specific guidelines regarding the weight and size of golf equipment that you will need to adhere to.

The airline allows only one bag containing golf equipment per passenger, and this can be either your primary checked bag or an additional one.

The size for oversized golf items (bags over 62 linear inches) doesn’t incur any oversize charges, which is a significant concession to golfers.

However, weight rules still apply, and fees for bags weighing more than 50 lbs can range up to $400 for bags between 71-100 lbs.

It’s crucial to pack your golf equipment accordingly, ensuring that it only contains items defined as golf equipment to avoid additional charges for oversized, overweight, and potentially expensive baggage​​​​.

It is also worth remembering that due to the size of golf bags, you might experience a delay in receiving your bag at baggage claim​​.

For the most current and detailed policy, it’s always a good idea to check directly with United Airlines or visit their website.

• American Airlines Golf Clubs Policy

Do golf clubs count as checked bag on United Airlines?

Yes, the golf bag can count as one of your checked baggage allowances on United Airlines. When you check a golf bag containing the appropriate equipment (golf clubs, golf balls, and a pair of golf shoes), it’s considered a piece of your standard checked luggage.

If this is your only checked item, it falls under your checked baggage allowance, subject to the usual weight and size restrictions. However, standard bag fees apply, and if the bag exceeds weight limits, overweight charges may also apply.

It’s essential to keep in mind that while the oversize fee for golf bags is waived, the bag still counts towards your checked baggage limit, and additional fees might be incurred if it’s overweight or if you exceed your baggage allowance​​​​​​.

How much do United Airlines charge for golf clubs?

United 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.

• RELATED: Delta Airlines Golf Clubs Policy

Do golf bags need to be checked into oversized baggage?

Golf bags, despite often being oversized compared to regular luggage, do not necessarily need to be checked into oversized baggage when flying with United Airlines.

The airline has specific provisions for golf equipment that allow a golf bag and specifically waives the oversize fee for golf bags, even though they exceed the standard size limits for checked luggage.

These bags are still subject to United’s weight rules, meaning that while they won’t face oversize charges, overweight charges may still apply if the bag exceeds the weight limits set by the airline.

This policy reflects an understanding of the needs of travelers who wish to bring their golf equipment with them, offering a more convenient and potentially cost-effective option for transporting these items.

It’s important for passengers to ensure that their golf bags are securely packed and do not contain prohibited items.

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 United 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 United Airlines, the linear dimensions of the bag (length + width + height) must not exceed 62 inches, 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.