Dreaming of hitting the links on your next vacation? If Southwest Airlines is your go-to carrier, you're in the right place! Understanding their golf bag policy is key to a smooth, stress-free journey with your precious clubs. Let's dive in and make sure you're fully prepared!
How Much Can a Golf Bag Weigh on Southwest Airlines? Your Ultimate Guide
Southwest Airlines, known for its "Bags Fly Free" philosophy (though this has seen some changes recently for many fares, more on that later!), has specific guidelines for sports equipment, including golf bags. Here's everything you need to know.
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| How Much Can A Golf Bag Weigh On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Understanding the Baseline - Standard Checked Baggage Rules
Before we talk golf, it's crucial to grasp Southwest's general checked baggage rules, as golf bags typically fall under this category.
Standard Weight and Size Limits:
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Weight Limit: For standard checked bags, the maximum weight allowed is 50 pounds (23 kg) per bag.
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Size Limit: The maximum linear dimensions (length + width + height) are 62 inches (157.5 cm). This measurement includes wheels and handles.
What does this mean for your golf bag? A golf bag, along with its contents (clubs, balls, shoes), must adhere to these limits to be considered a standard checked bag. If it exceeds either of these, additional fees will apply.
Step 2: Decoding the Golf Bag Specifics on Southwest
Southwest Airlines is generally accommodating when it comes to sports equipment.
Tip: Reading in short bursts can keep focus high.
What Qualifies as a Golf Bag?
Southwest typically defines a golf bag as a hard-sided carrying case containing:
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Golf balls
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Golf shoes
Important Note: While the rules state "hard-sided carrying case," many travelers have successfully used padded, soft-sided travel bags for their golf clubs. However, it's always worth noting that hard cases offer maximum protection against potential damage during transit.
How Golf Bags Count Towards Your Allowance:
A golf bag, even if it contains multiple clubs, shoes, and balls, is generally counted as one piece of checked baggage. This is excellent news for golfers!
For example: If your fare includes one free checked bag (or you have A-List Preferred status allowing two free bags), your golf bag can be that one (or one of two) free bag, provided it meets the weight and size restrictions.
Step 3: Navigating Overweight and Oversized Fees (and How to Avoid Them!)
This is where many golfers get caught out. Even if your golf bag counts as one item, it can still incur fees if it's too heavy or too large.
Overweight Baggage Fees:
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If your golf bag weighs between 51 and 100 pounds (23-45 kg), an overweight fee of $75 per item, one way, will apply.
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Anything over 100 pounds (45 kg) cannot be checked as baggage and must be shipped as Air Cargo (which has its own set of rules and is generally for known shippers).
Tip: Read mindfully — avoid distractions.
Oversized Baggage Fees:
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If your golf bag's linear dimensions exceed 62 inches (157.5 cm) but are not more than 80 inches (203 cm), an oversized fee of $75 per item, one way, will apply.
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Similar to overweight items, anything over 80 inches (203 cm) cannot be checked as baggage.
The Good News (Sometimes!):
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If your golf bag is both oversized and overweight, Southwest generally charges only one $75 fee per item, one way, as long as it doesn't exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches. This is a small relief if you're pushing both limits!
Pro Tip: Military Exemptions!
Active-duty military personnel with a valid ID are generally exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided their bags don't exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches. This is a significant perk for our service members!
Step 4: Smart Packing Strategies to Stay Within Limits
Now that you know the rules, let's talk about how to keep your golf bag from becoming a heavyweight contender (and costing you extra!).
Sub-heading: Lighten Your Load
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Only pack essentials: Do you really need 14 brand new golf balls for a weekend trip? Consider packing only the number of balls you'll likely use.
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Evaluate your clubs: Are you going to use every single club in your bag? Some golfers pare down to a travel set if they're not playing competitive rounds.
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Remove non-golf items: While it's tempting to stuff extra clothes into your golf travel bag to maximize space, remember that every ounce counts towards that 50-pound limit. Pack clothes in your regular checked luggage or carry-on.
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Check your shoes: Golf shoes, especially certain types, can be surprisingly heavy. Consider wearing your golf shoes on the plane if they're particularly bulky, or packing them sparingly.
Sub-heading: Optimizing Protection While Minimizing Weight
Tip: Read slowly to catch the finer details.
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Use headcovers: Always use headcovers for your woods and putter. This provides protection without adding significant weight.
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Stiff Arm/Support Rod: If using a soft-sided travel bag, a "stiff arm" or support rod is highly recommended. This adjustable pole is designed to be taller than your longest club, preventing shaft breakage if the bag is dropped head-first. It adds minimal weight for significant protection.
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Stuff with soft goods: Instead of heavy packing materials, use soft items like golf towels, extra golf shirts, or even your rain gear to fill any empty spaces within the golf bag. This provides cushioning and utilizes space efficiently without adding unnecessary weight.
Sub-heading: Weigh It Before You Go!
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Invest in a luggage scale: These are inexpensive and can save you a world of hassle (and money!) at the airport. Weigh your golf bag before you leave for the airport.
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Bathroom scale method: If you don't have a luggage scale, you can use a regular bathroom scale. Weigh yourself, then weigh yourself holding the golf bag. Subtract your weight from the combined weight to get the bag's weight.
Step 5: Pre-Departure Checklist for Golfers
A little preparation goes a long way.
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Verify Current Policies: Airlines, including Southwest, can update their policies. Always double-check the official Southwest Airlines website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date baggage information, especially regarding sports equipment and any potential embargoes for your specific travel dates or destination.
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Secure Your Bag: Ensure all zippers are closed and straps are tightened. Consider adding a TSA-approved lock for extra security (though TSA may still open it for inspection).
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Attach Identification: Clearly label your golf bag with your name, phone number, and email address both inside and outside the bag. An AirTag or similar tracking device placed inside the bag can also provide immense peace of mind.
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Consider Travel Insurance: While Southwest handles bags with care, accidents can happen. Travel insurance that covers sports equipment loss or damage can be a valuable investment.
10 Related FAQ Questions (How to...)
Here are some quick answers to common questions about flying with golf bags on Southwest Airlines:
How to pack my golf clubs safely in a travel bag?
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Use a stiff arm or support rod, put headcovers on all woods and your putter, and fill empty spaces with soft items like towels or clothing to prevent clubs from shifting and breaking. Consider removing driver heads if possible.
How to avoid overweight fees for my golf bag?
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Limit the number of golf balls, remove any non-essential items, and weigh your bag at home before heading to the airport using a luggage scale or bathroom scale.
Tip: Don’t skim past key examples.
How to know if my golf bag is oversized for Southwest?
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Measure the length, width, and height of your travel bag (including wheels and handles), and add them together. If the sum exceeds 62 inches (157.5 cm), it's oversized.
How to track my golf bag after checking it in?
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Southwest Airlines offers digital bag tracking on their app. Additionally, consider placing an Apple AirTag or similar Bluetooth tracker inside your golf bag for real-time location updates.
How to check my golf bag at the airport with Southwest?
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Proceed to the Southwest Airlines check-in counter. Inform the agent you are checking a golf bag. They will weigh and measure it, apply any necessary fees, and tag it for your flight.
How to know if my specific fare includes free checked bags on Southwest?
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For bookings made on or after May 28, 2025, most standard fares on Southwest no longer include free checked bags. However, passengers with Business Select fares, A-List Preferred status, or those using certain Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards may still receive one or two free checked bags. Always check your specific fare details or loyalty program benefits.
How to pay for overweight or oversized golf bag fees?
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Fees are typically paid at the Southwest Airlines check-in counter at the airport when you check your bag.
How to protect my golf bag from damage during transit?
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Use a durable travel case (hard-sided offers the most protection), employ a stiff arm, use club headcovers, and cushion any remaining space with clothing or towels.
How to handle connecting flights with my golf bag?
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While not always avoidable, direct flights minimize the risk of your golf bag being mishandled or delayed. If you have connecting flights, ensure you have sufficient layover time for your bag to transfer.
How to ship my golf clubs instead of flying with them?
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Several specialized services like Ship Sticks allow you to ship your golf clubs directly to your destination course or hotel. This can be a more convenient option for some, though it comes with its own costs and planning.
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