Step 1: Understanding Southwest's New Baggage Policy (and How it Affects Golf Clubs!)
First things first, let's address the elephant in the room: Southwest Airlines, as of May 28, 2025, no longer offers two free checked bags for most passengers. This is a significant shift from their long-standing "Bags Fly Free" policy and directly impacts how much you'll pay for your golf clubs.
Sub-heading: The Standard Checked Bag Fees
For the majority of travelers booking standard fares (Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime fares), here's the breakdown of the new standard checked bag fees:
First Checked Bag: $35 per bag, per direction.
Second Checked Bag: $45 per bag, per direction.
Third+ Checked Bags: $150 per bag, per direction.
Sub-heading: How Golf Clubs Fit into the Equation
Southwest Airlines considers golf equipment as a standard checked baggage item. This is a crucial point! It means your golf bag, containing your clubs, golf balls, and a pair of golf shoes, will count towards your checked baggage allowance.
If your golf bag is your first or second checked bag and meets the size and weight limits, you will pay the corresponding fee ($35 or $45).
If your golf bag is your third or more checked bag, the $150 fee will apply, in addition to any other checked bags.
Sub-heading: Who Still Gets Free Bags (and Maybe Even Free Golf Clubs!)?
While the "Bags Fly Free" policy is mostly gone, there are still some exceptions that could save you money:
Business Select Fares: If you purchase a Business Select fare, you still receive two free checked bags. This means your golf clubs could potentially fly free if they are within the first two bags.
Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: These elite members also receive two free checked bags.
Rapid Rewards A-List Members and Southwest Credit Card Holders: These individuals are entitled to one free checked bag. If your golf bag is your only checked item, it could fly free.
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| How Much Does It Cost To Take Golf Clubs On Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: Navigating Size and Weight Restrictions for Your Golf Clubs
Even if your golf clubs qualify for a free bag, or you're happy to pay the standard fees, you absolutely must adhere to Southwest's size and weight limits to avoid additional hefty charges.
Sub-heading: Standard Limits for Checked Baggage (Including Golf Clubs)
Maximum Weight: 50 pounds (23 kg) per bag.
Maximum Dimensions (Linear Inches): 62 linear inches (length + width + height) per bag. This includes wheels and handles.
Sub-heading: When Your Golf Clubs Become "Oversized" or "Overweight"
This is where costs can quickly escalate! Southwest has specific fees for bags that exceed the standard limits:
Tip: Revisit this page tomorrow to reinforce memory.
Overweight Fee (51-70 lbs): $100 per bag, per direction.
Overweight Fee (71-100 lbs): $200 per bag, per direction.
Oversized Fee (63-80 linear inches): $200 per bag, per direction.
Items over 80 linear inches or 100 lbs: Will NOT be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped as air cargo, which is a separate and often more expensive process.
Important Note: If your golf bag is both oversized AND overweight, you will generally only be charged one fee – the higher of the two – as long as it doesn't exceed 100 lbs and 80 linear inches. However, always double-check with Southwest directly as policies can be subject to change.
Step 3: Packing Your Golf Clubs for Safe Travel
Proper packing isn't just about protecting your clubs; it can also help you stay within those crucial size and weight limits.
Sub-heading: Choosing the Right Golf Travel Bag
Hard-Sided Cases: These offer the most protection for your clubs. While they might be heavier, they are excellent for preventing damage during transit. Southwest generally prefers hard-sided cases.
Soft-Sided Cases: These are lighter and often more flexible, but offer less protection. If you use a soft-sided case, be aware that Southwest may not be liable for damage to the bag or its contents. Consider adding extra padding around club heads and shafts if using a soft case.
Sub-heading: Smart Packing Tips to Avoid Issues
Remove Club Heads (if possible): Many modern drivers and woods allow you to remove the clubhead. Do this, and pack the heads separately in your carry-on or in a well-padded section of your golf bag. This reduces the overall length of the club.
Bundle Your Clubs: Use golf club travel bands or velcro straps to bundle your irons and woods together. This prevents them from shifting excessively inside the bag.
Use Stiff Arms/Club Protectors: These telescopic poles extend above your longest club and absorb impact, protecting your club shafts from breaking if the bag is dropped. They are a small investment for big peace of mind.
Pad Generously: Wrap towels, bubble wrap, or even extra clothing around the club heads and shafts. This provides cushioning and can help fill empty space, preventing movement.
Distribute Weight Evenly: Try to spread the weight within your golf bag. If you're packing shoes, balls, or other golf accessories, distribute them to avoid creating a heavy spot.
Pack Essential Items in Carry-On: Consider putting expensive rangefinders, GPS devices, or even a few essential golf balls in your carry-on to reduce the weight of your checked golf bag and minimize the risk of loss or damage.
Step 4: At the Airport: Checking In Your Golf Clubs
Sub-heading: Arriving Early
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Give yourself plenty of time at the airport, especially if you're checking oversized or potentially overweight items. This allows for any unforeseen issues and ensures you're not rushing.
Sub-heading: Self-Tagging (Where Available)
At select airports, you may be able to self-tag your bag at a kiosk. However, you'll still need to drop it off with an employee at the baggage counter.
Sub-heading: Declare and Pay
QuickTip: Scan for summary-style sentences.
When you get to the Southwest baggage counter, clearly state that you are checking a golf bag. The agent will weigh and measure your bag. If it's within limits and you're paying, they will process the payment. If it's oversized or overweight, they will apply the appropriate additional fees.
Sub-heading: Keep Your Receipt!
Always keep your baggage receipt and any tags. This is your proof of checking the bag and is essential if your bag is delayed, lost, or damaged.
Step 5: Post-Arrival: Retrieving Your Clubs
Once you land, head to the baggage claim area like any other checked bag. Look for the oversized baggage claim if your golf bag is particularly large, as it may be delivered there rather than the standard carousel.
In Summary:
The cost of taking golf clubs on Southwest Airlines has changed. While they used to be part of the "Bags Fly Free" policy, they are now subject to standard checked bag fees, which currently start at $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second (as of May 28, 2025). Additional fees of $100-$200 per direction apply if your golf bag exceeds the standard 50 lbs weight limit or 62 linear inches dimension limit. Elite status members and Business Select fare passengers may still get some checked bags for free. Proper packing is key to protecting your clubs and avoiding extra charges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to calculate the linear inches of my golf bag?
To calculate the linear inches, measure the length, width, and height of your golf bag (including wheels and handles), and then add those three measurements together. For example, if your bag is 48 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 10 inches high, its linear inches would be linear inches.
Tip: Each paragraph has one main idea — find it.
How to pack golf clubs to avoid damage?
Use a hard-sided travel case for maximum protection. If using a soft-sided case, remove club heads, use a "stiff arm" or club protector, bundle clubs, and generously pad club heads and shafts with towels or bubble wrap.
How to know if my golf bag is overweight?
The only way to know for sure is to weigh it! Use a luggage scale at home before you leave for the airport. Most standard golf bags with a full set of clubs, shoes, and balls will be close to or slightly over the 50 lb limit.
How to avoid overweight fees for my golf bag?
Remove any non-essential heavy items like extra golf balls, shoes, or apparel and pack them in your carry-on or another checked bag (if you have allowance). Consider shipping some items separately if you're close to the limit.
How to check my Rapid Rewards status for baggage benefits?
Log in to your Rapid Rewards account on the Southwest Airlines website or app. Your A-List or A-List Preferred status will be clearly displayed, along with associated benefits like free checked bags.
Tip: Highlight what feels important.
How to purchase a Southwest Business Select fare?
When booking your flight on the Southwest Airlines website, you will see different fare options (Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, Anytime, Business Select). Select "Business Select" during the booking process.
How to find the most up-to-date Southwest baggage policy?
Always refer to the official "Optional Travel Charges" or "Baggage Policy" section on the Southwest Airlines website or contact their customer service directly. Policies can change, so checking the official source is crucial.
How to handle a damaged golf bag after a flight?
Report any damage to your golf bag or its contents to a Southwest Airlines baggage agent before leaving the airport. They will guide you through the claim process. Take photos of the damage as evidence.
How to ship golf clubs instead of checking them?
Several services specialize in shipping golf clubs, such as Ship Sticks or Luggage Forward. You can arrange for them to pick up your clubs from your home and deliver them directly to your destination course or hotel. This can sometimes be more expensive but offers convenience and avoids airline baggage hassles.
How to fit a full set of golf clubs into a travel bag?
Most standard travel bags are designed to hold a full set of 14 clubs. Ensure all clubs are inserted correctly, and use the internal straps or dividers (if available) to secure them. Remember to account for the club's length and overall bag dimensions.
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