Sports Equipment Travel Guide
Travel with your sports equipment confidently. Learn about airline policies, fees, packing tips, and restrictions for golf clubs, skis, bikes, and more.
Understanding Sports Equipment Travel
Traveling with sports equipment requires special consideration due to size, weight, and fragility. Most airlines have specific policies for different types of sports equipment, with some items counting as regular checked baggage and others requiring special handling.
Understanding these policies before you travel can save you money and ensure your equipment arrives safely at your destination.
Common Sports Equipment
Golf Clubs
$0-150
Golf bags and clubs
Skis/Snowboard
$0-150
Ski and snowboard equipment
Bicycle
$75-200
Bikes and cycling equipment
Surfboard
$75-200
Surfboards and water sports
Airline Sports Equipment Policies
| Airline | Golf Clubs | Skis | Bicycle | Surfboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | Free (counts as checked bag) | Free (counts as checked bag) | $150 | $150 |
| Delta Air Lines | Free (counts as checked bag) | Free (counts as checked bag) | $150 | $150 |
| United Airlines | Free (counts as checked bag) | Free (counts as checked bag) | $150 | $150 |
| Southwest Airlines | Free | Free | $75 | $75 |
| JetBlue Airways | Free (counts as checked bag) | Free (counts as checked bag) | $150 | $150 |
Sports Equipment Fees Comparison
| Equipment | American | Delta | United | Southwest | JetBlue |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golf Clubs | Free | Free | Free | Free | Free |
| Skis/Snowboard | Free | Free | Free | Free | Free |
| Bicycle | $150 | $150 | $150 | $75 | $150 |
| Surfboard | $150 | $150 | $150 | $75 | $150 |
| Hockey Equipment | Free | Free | Free | Free | Free |
Packing Tips for Sports Equipment
Use proper cases designed for your equipment
Remove loose items and secure all parts
Pack fragile items with extra padding
Label your equipment clearly with contact info
Take photos of your equipment before packing
Consider insurance for valuable equipment
Check airline policies before booking
Arrive early to allow extra time for check-in
Important Restrictions
Equipment must be properly packed in appropriate cases
Some airlines require advance notice for large items
Weight limits still apply (usually 50 lbs)
Size restrictions vary by equipment type
Some equipment may not be allowed on certain aircraft
International flights may have different rules
Equipment counts toward your checked baggage allowance
Some airlines require special handling fees
Frequently Asked Questions
Do golf clubs count as checked baggage?
Yes, golf clubs typically count as one piece of checked baggage. If you have a free checked bag allowance, golf clubs are usually included at no extra cost. Otherwise, you'll pay the standard checked bag fee.
Can I bring my bike on the plane?
Yes, most airlines allow bicycles as checked baggage, but they typically charge special fees ranging from $75-200. Bikes must be properly packed in a bike box or case and may have size and weight restrictions.
What's the best way to pack skis?
Use a proper ski bag or case designed for air travel. Remove bindings if possible, pack boots separately, and use padding to protect the skis. Many airlines offer free ski bags or have specific packing requirements.
Do I need to notify the airline about sports equipment?
For most standard sports equipment like golf clubs and skis, advance notice isn't required. However, for large items like bicycles or surfboards, some airlines may require advance notification or have restrictions on certain aircraft types.