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Before you arrive at the airport, it is critical to know and follow the fundamental rules for traveling with golf equipment on Southwest Airlines. These rules are in place to ensure your gear is transported safely and that you don't encounter unexpected fees.
Free Baggage Allowance: The most significant benefit of flying Southwest with your equipment is that a golf bag can count as one of your two free checked bags (for most fares and loyalty tiers). This means you can bring your clubs without paying an extra baggage fee, as long as it meets the airline's specific weight rules.
Size and Weight Limits: While a golf bag is typically oversized, Southwest waives the standard "oversize" fee for them. However, standard "overweight" fees still apply. Each bag must be under 50 pounds to avoid an overweight fee. If your golf bag exceeds the 50-pound limit, you will be charged an overweight fee. It's a great idea to weigh your bag at home before heading to the airport.
What Counts as a Golf Bag: According to Southwest's policy, a golf bag is defined as a container that includes golf clubs, balls, and shoes. It must be a hard-sided carrying case or a soft-sided carrying case. You may be asked to open the bag for inspection.
Proper Packing: To prevent damage, all equipment must be packed in a durable bag that can withstand normal baggage handling. While a soft-sided bag is accepted, Southwest will transport it with a limited release of liability. This means the airline is not responsible for damage that occurs during handling. A rigid or hard-sided case is always recommended for protecting your valuable clubs.
Other Items in Golf Bag: Your golf bag should only contain golf-related items. You may be asked to open the bag for inspection. If the bag contains other items, such as clothing or personal belongings, it may be subject to additional fees.
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To check in for a flight with your golf equipment, you must go to the ticket counter. Follow these steps for a compliant and easy process:
Pack Securely: Before you even leave for the airport, ensure your equipment is packed securely in a proper bag. Double-check the weight of your bag to ensure it is under 50 pounds.
Arrive Early at the Airport: Plan to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This gives you ample time to check in your equipment, which may require you to go to a separate oversized baggage line, and proceed through security without feeling rushed.
Go to the Ticket Counter: Head directly to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. Inform the agent that you are checking a golf bag.
Present Your Equipment: Present your golf bag for inspection and weighing. The agent will confirm that it meets the weight limits and is properly packed.
Tag Your Item: The agent will place a luggage tag on your golf bag. They may also apply a limited release of liability tag if your bag is not a hard-sided case.
Proceed to the Oversized Baggage Drop: Because of their length, golf bags will not be accepted on the standard baggage carousel. The agent will direct you to a special oversized baggage drop-off area where you will place your bag.
Hold Onto Fragile Items: It is a good idea to pack any fragile or valuable golf items, such as your rangefinder or GPS device, in your carry-on luggage to ensure their safety.
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Q1: Do I have to pay to check my golf bag?
A1: Your golf bag can count as one of your two free checked bags (for most fares and loyalty tiers). An overweight fee will apply if the bag exceeds 50 pounds.
Q2: Is there an oversized baggage fee for my golf bag?
A2: Southwest waives the oversized baggage fee for golf equipment. However, if the bag is overweight, a fee will apply.
Q3: Can I check my golf bag at the self-service kiosk?
A3: While you can use a self-service kiosk to tag your other bags, you must check your oversized golf bag at the ticket counter with an agent.
Q4: What happens if my bag is overweight?
A4: An overweight baggage fee will be charged if your bag exceeds 50 pounds. You can check the current fee by calling ☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐.
Q5: Can I pack other items in my golf bag?
A5: Southwest's policy defines a golf bag as containing golf clubs, balls, and shoes. Packing other items may subject the bag to additional fees and can cause it to no longer be considered "golf equipment."
Q6: Can I use a soft-sided bag?
A6: Yes, you can use a soft-sided bag, but Southwest will accept it with a limited release of liability. A hard-sided case is always recommended for better protection.
Q7: Can a phone agent assist with a last-minute flight change?
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Q8: What is the check-in deadline for golf equipment?
A8: The standard check-in deadlines apply, but due to the special procedures, it is highly recommended that you arrive at least two hours early.
Q9: Do I have to declare my golf equipment at check-in?
A9: Yes, you should verbally declare that you are checking a golf bag so that the agent can ensure all regulations are met.
Q10: What if I have more than one golf bag?
A10: Each golf bag will count as a separate checked item. So if you have two golf bags, they will likely count as your two free checked bags.
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