Quick Answer
❌ No. TSA prohibits golf clubs in carry-on luggage.
✅ Golf clubs are allowed in checked luggage.
⚠️ Airlines treat golf bags as oversized sports equipment, but many include them as one standard checked bag.
Details
- Carry-on:
- Golf clubs are not permitted in cabins.
- TSA bans them due to size and potential use as weapons.
- Checked luggage:
- Golf bags with clubs are allowed.
- Airlines often count a golf bag as one checked item, which may include clubs, balls, and shoes.
- Extra fees may apply if overweight.
- Airline rules:
- Some airlines waive oversize fees for golf equipment.
- Special golf travel bags or hard cases recommended for protection.
- International flights:
- Golf clubs are accepted worldwide, but baggage fees and weight limits vary.
TSA Golf Club Rules Summary
| Golf Equipment | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Golf club | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Golf bag (clubs, balls, shoes) | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed (as 1 checked item) |
| Golf balls | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Golf shoes | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ No carry-on exceptions: Even a single golf club cannot be brought onboard.
- ✈️ Airline policies differ: Some carriers include golf bags in baggage allowance, others charge sports fees.
- ✈️ Packing tip: Use hard-shell golf cases or padded travel covers to prevent club damage.
- ✈️ Weight watch: Over 50 lbs (23 kg) may incur heavy charges.
Sources
- TSA – What Can I Bring? (Sports Equipment)
- Airline baggage policies (United, Delta, American, Southwest, Emirates).