Finding the best golf travel bag is necessary for the avid globetrotting golfer. Your beloved clubs deserve the utmost protection, minimizing any risks associated with transporting them. Here at Golf Testers, we’re seasoned golfers who frequently embark on golfing excursions, allowing us ample opportunity to test various travel bag models.
Thus, we’re well-positioned to identify the premier options for the best golf travel bag while offering insightful advice on key considerations. Strength is paramount, as these bags must withstand the rigors of travel via planes, trains, and automobiles. Durable materials, ample padding, and impeccable construction are indispensable qualities, with standouts like the Motocaddy and Titleist setting the standard.
Moreover, ease of maneuverability is a significant advantage, as cumbersome travel bags only compound logistical challenges. Optimal mobility, facilitated by robust wheels, is essential, making the Sun Mountain a standout choice.
Furthermore, easy identification is crucial for peace of mind amidst the chaos of airports, where the risk of luggage mix-ups looms large. The Ogio Alpha earns high praise, boasting distinctive designs that set it apart from the crowd.
Best Golf Travel Bags
MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover (Top pick)
MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover
Meet the MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover: rugged enough to handle airport abuse, easy to carry, and a steal for the price—your go-to for worry-free golf travel.
Pros
Durable cover
Ample storage space
Decent level of protection
Cons
On the heavier side in this category
External pockets could be more robust
The VIP II Premium travel cover offers all the durable protection and ease of use of the Deluxe model, with a few extra features for added peace of mind – like additional padding around the top of the cover, which increases the layer of protection for the clubs. At the same time, an internal support strap keeps clubs secure during transit.
We cannot stress how much of a difference these little design details make. As some of the best golf clubs can cost a lot of money, you will want to ensure that your bag has a lot of protection to keep it safe.
Three heavy-duty external straps provide a fail-safe seal on the cover, and lockable dual zips add a final level of security, making this travel cover an excellent value for money. There is also plenty of space to throw in the clothing and footwear that didn’t fit your suitcase.
And to give you an idea of how much space there is, there’s enough to accommodate a 49-inch driver. We should also mention the price because despite having the word Premium in the name, it comes at the value end of the price spectrum, which is very appealing.
Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover (Best with wheels)
Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover
Introducing the Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover: Your ticket to effortless travel.
Glide through airports with envy-inducing ease while others struggle with their covers.
Pros
Stand and cart bags fit easily
Wheels aid maneuverability
High-quality strength
Cons
On the heavier end
Tricky to put legs/wheels back up
The superbly innovative ClubGlider from Sun Mountain will be your best friend on a golf trip, featuring an integrated leg set that retracts easily and supports all the bag’s weight for easy wheeling on all surfaces.
As the name suggests, the four wheels glide around the airport, removing stress from your back, arms, and wrists when maneuvering it. When we tested it, we found the legs very sturdy, akin to many of the best Sun Mountain golf bags, and the wheels roll excellently.
The padding around the top of the bag is thick and should mean no accidents with your driver and fairway woods. The bag also comes with two spacious outside pockets, one on either side, that can easily house jackets, coats, jumpers, or anything else you see fit to put in for easy access.
Inside the bag are two straps to secure your golf bag, and there’s enough room for plenty more; overall, we loved this model; it does cost a little bit more than others on this list, but it is well made, performs well, protects your clubs, and makes traveling with clubs significantly more accessible, which is a big plus.
Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover (Best padding)
Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover
Introducing the Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover: Your go-to choice for superior club and gear protection on international journeys.
Pros
Excellent protection and padding
The six-wheel design makes transportation easy
Fold-up and storage box design
Cons
Only available in black colorway
A versatile travel bag perfect for those seeking enhanced protection for their golf clubs. Motocaddy, renowned for its top-quality electric golf trolleys and golf cart bags, delivers exceptional craftsmanship and materials in this product.
During our testing, we were impressed by the robust protection it provided our clubs. The durable, padded nylon materials ensured ample protection without unnecessary bulkiness, accommodating all your gear comfortably.
You’ll also have room for a pair of golf shoes and clothing. A standout feature is the six-wheel design, facilitating effortless maneuverability around the airport. Internal and external straps securely hold your clubs in place, providing peace of mind during transit.
While there may be more visually striking options available, the simple yet premium appearance of the Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover appealed to us, delivering excellent protection for our clubs.
BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover (Best for airlines)
BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover
Introducing the BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover: Lightweight, effortless to use and maneuver, with ample storage—perfect for avid golf travelers seeking convenience and functionality.
Pros
Lightweight and compact
Easy wrap-around zipper
Offers good value
Cons
Not as protective as pricier covers
The new Bag Boy T-660 features a wrap-around zipper that opens up the entire front of the travel cover. From there, you lay your golf bag in there, and unless it’s oversized or severely overstuffed, we found it easy to get in and out of the bag.
When folded up and not in use, you can easily fit it into a small space behind the seat of your rental car when you’re traveling or put it in the corner of the trunk. The T-660 also weighs less than 6 pounds, making it easy to maneuver when not in use, and you can store it on a shelf at your house or in your garage without it taking up much space.
Other features we liked include reinforced corners, a skid plate, skid bars, and a large front pocket at the bottom for your shoes or outerwear. It also comes with high-quality inline skate wheels for smooth rolling.
Given its solid performance and excellent value, the BagBoy T-660 is an ideal option for golfers who frequently travel via the airport. Its lightness and strength ensure easy handling, even in the hands of the most heavy-handed airline staff. Adding a colorful ribbon or something to a handle would make it stand out more.
Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover (Best hard case)
Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover
It is introducing the Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover: A stylish and innovative solution for golf travel.
With robust padding and a compact, foldable design, it offers protection and convenience in a sleek package.
Pros
Robust case transforms brilliantly.
Lots of colors to choose from
Cons
There are a few additional storage pockets.
We are big fans of the Kube. It’s an excellent innovation that serves its primary purpose of protecting your clubs well in transit and allows you to collapse it down to a neat size smaller than the average cabin bag (23 x 33 x 38) when not in use via its clever foldaway system.
It has a robust hard-case shell with two external and internal straps to keep everything secure on the inside. We also like the reinforced padded area at the clubhead end for added protection.
The wheels glide well, and the case is easy to move around thanks to the handle, not to mention it weighs just 3.08kg/6.6 lbs. There are several colors to choose from right now, so if the orange and grey aren’t for you, you can also get them in navy, green/black, and a pink/graphite finish.
Sun Mountain makes many fantastic products, especially regarding bags, which is why we created the best Sun Mountain golf bags guide, too.
Ram FX Golf Travel Cover (Best budget)
Ram FX Golf Travel Cover
Introducing the Ram FX Golf Travel Cover: A meticulously designed and user-friendly solution for golf travel.
Offering ample space and robust protection for your clubs and additional gear, it’s the ultimate companion for avid golfers on the move.
Pros
Easy to transport
Plenty of padding
Extra side pockets are helpful for golf accessories
Cons
Heavier than some travel covers
A well-thought-out and user-friendly golf travel cover, the Ram FX is made from a very sturdy ripstop fabric with extra padding across critical areas where the golf clubs would be. A sizeable leading compartment houses golf clubs and features one main strap to hold your clubs down once they are packed.
Exterior pockets include one perfectly sized for a pair of the best golf shoes and a similarly sized pocket we found helpful for packing accessories like some of the best golf socks and belts. Additionally, it may seem like a minor feature, but we liked the blue accents on the outside of the bag because it made it very easy to spot when a deluge of golf travel bags get dropped off at the oversized baggage section in the airport.
Overall, with a lower RRP than others on this list, this bag easily represents one of the best-value travel bags on the market, but you are staying on that much performance.
Titleist Players Travel Cover (Best durability)
Titleist Players Travel Cover
Introducing the Titleist Players Travel Cover: A dependable and premium option for golf travel, exuding quality assurance.
Fly confidently, knowing your clubs and gear are safeguarded throughout your journey.
Pros
Well respected brand
Good value
Easy to transport
Secure strapping
Cons
Some may prefer more wheels.
Limited padding
Featuring two premium skate wheels and a large carry handle, the Titleist Players Travel Cover is highly functional and provides a secure home for your clubs. Having extensively tested it, we were impressed with its protection and quality, primarily how well it handled the trials of travel with its durable polyester fabric.
The bag includes a handy strap inside to hold your clubs in place, and there’s ample space for a golf cart bag or to store golf shoes alongside your clubs without concern for suitcase weight. Additionally, it boasts two premium skate wheels that operate smoothly in airports, easing transportation without strain.
Complemented by a comfortable handle, this travel cover exudes a premium feel. However, it comes only in black, which suits its no-nonsense, high-quality nature but may not appeal to those seeking a more statement-making option at the airport.
Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid (Best color choice)
Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid
It is introducing the Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid: A standout option that excels in style and performance.
Available in various eye-catching colors, it’s the perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality, ensuring a stylish and reliable travel companion for golfers.
Pros
Easy to maneuver
Plenty of storage
The cover looks great and is easy to spot in the airport/baggage claim
Cons
Perhaps it could do with thicker padding at the top end
Larger tour bags may struggle to fit
The Ogio Alpha travel bag is a roomy option that can store shoes, clothes, and balls and still have space left for a souvenir. Despite its ample capacity, it proved surprisingly lightweight, making it easy to lift into cars or off an airport carousel.
This makes it ideal for golfers seeking to minimize strain on their backs, and its two strong wheels ensure easy maneuverability. They feature a skid plate on the bottom for protection and durable, well-padded material around club heads for added security and structure.
The D-shaped opening provides easy access to your clubs; handy compression straps keep them securely in place. Notably, the Ogio Alpha comes in eye-catching colors like ‘Warp Speed,’ ensuring it stands out in the airport. Other color options include ‘Terra Texture,’ ‘Black,’ and ‘Mid Haze,’ providing differentiation from competitors and guaranteeing it won’t be lost in transit.
How We Test
Our golf gear testing process is thorough and relies on the expertise of the Golf Testers test team. Typically, we attend product launches to gain insights, and during actual testing, we evaluate products over a period to accurately assess performance.
Regarding travel bags, we prioritize real-world testing during travel scenarios to ensure our evaluations align with potential user experiences.
Significantly, manufacturers cannot influence our reviews through payment; our conclusions are solely based on testing and first-hand experiences. This commitment stems from our dedication to providing comprehensive and unbiased reviews, empowering you to make informed product decisions.
How To Choose The Best Golf Travel Bags?
Selecting the right travel bag is crucial for safeguarding your golf gear. Here are vital factors to consider when making your choice:
- Strength and Durability: Your travel bag should be constructed from robust, tear-resistant materials with compression straps and foam padding to protect your clubs. Additionally, ensure the wheels are sturdy and maneuverable.
- Maneuverability: Opt for models with smooth-sliding wheels for easy mobility. While four-wheeled options are ideal for general luggage, two-wheeled designs work well for travel bags that can be laid down.
- Weight: Given the need for portability, balance, lightweight design, and durability. Look for lightweight yet sturdy models, ensuring easy handling during travel.
- Warranty: Check the warranty retailers and manufacturers offer to safeguard against potential damages to your clubs and gear. More extended warranties provide added peace of mind.
- Budget: While protecting your clubs is paramount, consider your budget. As the abovementioned models demonstrate, quality travel bags need not break the bank. Explore options across various price ranges to find the best fit for your needs.
For further insights into top golf bag selections, consult our guides on the best golf travel bags and golf cart bags.
Frequently Ask Questions
What to consider in a travel bag?
Begin with strength and durability. Your travel bag must withstand the rigors of travel, necessitating sturdy, tear-resistant materials.
Look for features such as interior and exterior compression straps, along with foam padding to shield your clubs. Additionally, ensure the wheels are robust and maneuver smoothly.
Does weight matter in a travel bag?
Yes, weight is indeed crucial, mainly if the bag relies on two wheels. Achieving a delicate equilibrium between lightness and durability is paramount; compromising on either is undesirable.
Top-tier models boast exceptional maneuverability, smoothly gliding wheels, and adept directional changes. While models with more than two wheels often excel, specific two-wheel options, like the Sun Mountain Kube, also offer commendable mobility.
Can I put other golf gear in my travel bag?
Depending on your allocated weight allowance for your transfer or flight, you may have the option to pack additional equipment alongside your clubs in your travel bag. This could include waterproof gear, golf shoes, or extra golf attire.
What type of bag do pro golfers prefer?
Through our investigation, we’ve discovered that the favored choice among Tour players is the Club Glove Large Pro model. Renowned for its spaciousness, it accommodates Tour golf bags, which are known as some of the largest in the game.
Is a travel bag necessary for transporting golf clubs by plane?
While not mandatory, utilizing a travel bag for transporting golf clubs on a plane is strongly advised. This precaution ensures their protection and minimizes the risk of damage during travel.
How to pack golf clubs for travel?
The optimal method for packing golf clubs for travel is to ensure a snug fit. Utilize any provided straps to secure your clubs tightly in place. Most travel bags come with exterior and interior straps to maintain the security of your clubs throughout the journey.
What are the airline restrictions for checking in a golf travel bag?
While airline regulations vary, most adhere to standard check-in luggage rules regarding weight and dimensions. Typically, the weight limit hovers around 50 pounds, with potential surcharges for exceeding it. Policies on items like golf shoes and balls may differ among airlines.
Additionally, coverage for lost bags can hinge on the type of golf travel bag. Attaching an AirTag holder with a tracker to your bag is advisable for added assurance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the best golf travel bag involves considering various factors such as durability, maneuverability, weight, warranty, and budget. Each golfer’s needs and preferences may vary, but prioritizing features like sturdy construction, ease of transport, and ample protection for clubs and gear are paramount.
Whether opting for a premium model like the Club Glove Last Bag or a more budget-friendly option like the Ram FX Golf Travel Cover, ensuring that your golf equipment is safeguarded during transit is essential for an enjoyable and stress-free travel experience.
By weighing these factors carefully, golfers can confidently choose the travel bag that best suits their requirements, ensuring peace of mind and optimal protection for their prized clubs on every journey.
