Oh, planning a golf getaway, are we? That's fantastic! There's nothing quite like hitting the links in a new destination. But before you start dreaming of birdies and eagles, let's address a crucial detail: how much does Southwest Airlines charge for golf clubs? It's a common question, and understanding their policy can save you both stress and unexpected fees.
Southwest has a reputation for being generous with baggage, and while that's generally true, there are still important nuances when it comes to oversized or special items like golf clubs. Let's break it down step-by-step to ensure your clubs make it to the green without a hitch!
Step 1: Understanding Southwest's Generous Standard Baggage Policy (and How Golf Clubs Fit In)
Before we dive into the specifics of golf clubs, it's essential to grasp Southwest's fundamental baggage policy. This is where their "Bags Fly Free" motto comes into play, and it's a major perk.
Your Two Free Checked Bags
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Did you know? Southwest Airlines allows every ticketed customer to check two bags for free! This is a significant advantage over many other airlines that charge for even the first checked bag.
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The Catch (or rather, the Guidelines): While they're free, these bags still need to adhere to certain limits:
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Weight Limit: Each bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
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Size Limit: The total linear dimensions (length + width + height) of each bag must not exceed 62 inches (158 cm).
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Where Do Golf Clubs Stand?
Tip: Each paragraph has one main idea — find it.
Here's the good news for golfers: Southwest generally considers a golf bag as one piece of checked baggage. This means that if it fits within their standard weight and size guidelines, it can be one of your two free checked bags.
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However, golf bags are often longer than standard suitcases. This is where the "excess size charges waived" part of their policy comes into play specifically for golf equipment. While other oversized items might incur a fee, golf bags are often exempt from the size fee, provided they meet certain criteria. We'll explore that in detail in the next step.
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Important Note: A "golf bag" is typically defined as a hard-sided carrying case containing clubs, balls, and shoes. If you're using a soft-sided case, Southwest may transport it with a limited release of liability, meaning they might not be fully responsible for damage.
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| How Much Does Southwest Airlines Charge For Golf Clubs |
Step 2: Navigating the Specifics: Weight and Size Considerations for Golf Clubs
Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty of dimensions and weight for your golf clubs, as this is where potential charges can arise.
Weight is Key:
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The 50-Pound Rule: This is the most crucial factor for golf clubs. Your golf bag, including all its contents (clubs, balls, shoes, accessories), must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
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Overweight Fee: If your golf bag weighs between 51 and 100 pounds (23-45 kg), Southwest will charge an overweight fee of $75 per item, each way.
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Pro Tip: To avoid this, consider removing heavier items like extra golf balls, shoes, or even some less-used clubs and packing them in your other checked bag (if it's under 50 lbs), or a carry-on if permissible.
Size for Golf Bags: A Special Exemption (Mostly):
QuickTip: Slowing down makes content clearer.
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As mentioned, while regular checked bags have a 62-linear-inch limit, golf bags often receive an exception for their length.
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Southwest explicitly states that for golf equipment, excess size charges will not apply even if the total linear dimensions exceed 62 inches, as long as it's within the accepted limits for sports equipment (which can be up to 80 inches for oversized items).
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Maximum Length: While the 62-inch rule is waived for golf bags, there's a general guideline that items shouldn't exceed 80 inches in overall linear dimensions. Anything over 80 inches or 100 pounds might need to be shipped via Southwest Cargo, which has different rules and is generally for commercial shippers.
Summary of Potential Costs:
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Under 50 lbs & within typical golf bag dimensions: $0 (Free!) as one of your two free checked bags.
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51-100 lbs & within typical golf bag dimensions: $75 per item, each way (overweight fee).
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Over 100 lbs or exceeding 80 inches linear dimensions: Cannot be checked as regular baggage. You'll need to look into Southwest Cargo or a third-party shipping service (see Step 4).
Step 3: Packing Your Golf Clubs for a Smooth Journey
Properly packing your golf clubs is not just about avoiding fees; it's about protecting your valuable equipment!
Choosing the Right Case:
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Hard-Sided Case: Highly recommended. A hard-sided travel case offers the best protection against impacts and crushing during transit. Southwest itself mentions hard-sided cases in their policy for golf equipment.
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Soft-Sided Case: While accepted, they offer less protection. If you use one, consider adding extra padding around club heads and shafts. Remember the limited release of liability with soft-sided cases.
Tip: Break down complex paragraphs step by step.
Inside the Case:
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Remove Heads (if possible): If your driver or woods have removable heads, take them off and pack them securely within your golf bag or even in your carry-on for extra peace of mind.
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Use a "Stiff Arm" or Support Rod: This adjustable rod extends to the length of your longest club and protects against impact from the top of the bag. It's a cheap and effective insurance policy.
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Bundle Clubs: Use towels, old clothes, or club covers to wrap your club heads and shafts, preventing them from clanking against each other and reducing movement inside the bag.
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Fill Empty Space: Stuff any remaining empty space in your golf bag with soft items like towels, golf shoes (if they don't push you over the weight limit), or extra clothing. This minimizes shifting and provides cushioning.
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Secure Pockets: Make sure all zippers and pockets on your golf bag are securely closed to prevent items from falling out.
Step 4: Alternative Shipping Options (When Flying Isn't the Best Fit)
Sometimes, checking your golf clubs with the airline isn't the most convenient or cost-effective solution, especially if you have multiple sets or extremely heavy bags.
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Consider a Golf Club Shipping Service:
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Companies like Ship Sticks, Luggage Forward, or similar services specialize in shipping sports equipment directly to your destination (golf course, hotel, or home).
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Benefits:
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Hassle-Free: You don't have to lug your heavy golf bag through the airport.
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On-Time Guarantee: Many services offer guarantees for timely delivery.
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Insurance: Often includes complimentary insurance for your clubs.
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Potentially Cheaper for Heavy/Multiple Bags: While a single golf bag on Southwest within limits is free, shipping services can be more economical if you're dealing with overweight bags or several sets.
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How it Works: You typically schedule a pickup from your home or a drop-off point, print a label, and the service handles the rest, delivering your clubs directly to your golf destination.
Southwest Cargo:
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This is generally for commercial shippers or very large/heavy items that exceed the standard baggage limits (over 100 lbs or 80 inches).
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You'd need to be a "Known Shipper" as defined by the TSA or use a TSA-approved Indirect Air Carrier (IAC). This is usually not the go-to option for individual travelers with a single golf bag.
Step 5: Double-Checking Before You Go!
Policies can change, so always perform a final verification!
Before You Leave Home:
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Weigh Your Bag: Use a luggage scale to confirm your golf bag is under 50 pounds. This is the single most important step to avoid unexpected fees.
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Measure if Concerned: While golf bags often get an exemption for length, if you have an unusually large or oddly shaped case, quickly check its total linear dimensions (L+W+H) to ensure it's well under the 80-inch maximum for special items.
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Check Southwest's Official Website: The absolute best source for the most up-to-date information is Southwest Airlines' official "Special Baggage & Sports Equipment" or "Checked Bag Policy" pages. Look for details specifically on "Golf Equipment."
At the Airport:
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Arrive Early: Give yourself ample time at the check-in counter, especially if you're checking a golf bag.
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Be Prepared: Have your booking information and be ready to answer any questions about the contents of your bag.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to travel with your golf clubs on Southwest Airlines, ensuring a smooth journey from your doorstep to the first tee!
FAQs: How to Travel with Golf Clubs on Southwest Airlines
Here are 10 common questions related to flying with golf clubs on Southwest, with quick answers:
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How to avoid paying fees for golf clubs on Southwest?
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Keep your golf bag's weight under 50 pounds (23 kg). If it meets this weight limit and fits their definition of a golf bag, it will count as one of your two free checked bags.
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How to pack golf clubs for a flight on Southwest?
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Use a hard-sided travel case for maximum protection. Inside, remove detachable club heads, use a "stiff arm" or support rod, bundle clubs with padding, and fill any empty space.
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How to know if my golf bag is overweight for Southwest?
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Use a luggage scale to weigh your golf bag before heading to the airport. The limit is 50 pounds.
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How to handle an overweight golf bag on Southwest?
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If your bag is between 51-100 lbs, you'll incur a $75 overweight fee. To avoid this, consider removing heavy items like extra balls or shoes and placing them in another checked bag or carry-on.
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How to measure a golf bag for Southwest's dimensions?
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For golf bags, Southwest waives the standard 62-inch linear dimension rule. However, the bag should generally not exceed 80 linear inches (length + width + height) to be accepted as checked baggage. The 50-pound weight limit remains paramount.
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How to check a golf bag as part of my free baggage allowance on Southwest?
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As long as your golf bag (in a hard-sided case) is under 50 pounds, it will count as one of your two free checked bags. Simply present it at the check-in counter.
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How to ensure my golf clubs are safe during transit with Southwest?
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Invest in a sturdy hard-sided travel case. Use a "stiff arm" or support rod, bundle clubs, and fill empty spaces with soft materials inside the case.
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How to find the most current Southwest baggage policy for golf clubs?
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Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website. Look for their "Checked Baggage Policy" and "Special Baggage & Sports Equipment" sections.
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How to ship golf clubs instead of flying with them on Southwest?
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Consider using specialized golf club shipping services like Ship Sticks. They handle pickup, transport, and delivery directly to your destination, often including insurance.
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How to determine if a soft-sided golf bag is allowed on Southwest?
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Soft-sided golf bags are generally accepted, but Southwest typically transports them with a limited release of liability. This means they may not be fully responsible for damage if the bag isn't hard-sided.
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