Travelling to play different golf courses is an incredible experience for any golf enthusiast. Whether it’s a planned golf vacation to a renowned destination or a dream trip to play bucket-list courses, ensuring your golf clubs arrive safely is paramount. Nothing can spoil a golf trip faster than discovering your prized clubs have been damaged during transit. This is where investing in the Best Golf Bag Travel Case becomes essential.
The best golf bag travel cases provide crucial peace of mind, assuring you that your valuable golf equipment will reach your destination unscathed. But what exactly defines a top-tier travel case?
Firstly, durability is key. A reliable golf travel case must be robust enough to shield your clubs from the bumps and grinds of travel, whether you’re flying, taking a train, or driving. Look for travel cases constructed from strong, resilient materials, featuring solid construction and ample internal padding. This protective cushioning is vital for safeguarding your valuable equipment, from your state-of-the-art driver to your trusted putter.
Beyond protection, portability is equally crucial. An excellent golf travel bag or cover needs to be easily maneuverable, allowing you to navigate airports, train stations, and hotel lobbies without undue stress or strain. High-quality, strategically positioned wheels are the best feature for effortless movement. Carry handles are also an important consideration, often overlooked but essential for lifting and loading. Finally, the overall weight of the travel case matters. Golf clubs themselves can be heavy, so you want a travel cover that adds minimal additional weight to your load.
We’ve rigorously tested a wide array of golf travel bags, subjecting them to both short and long-haul golf trips. Our evaluations focus on their ability to withstand the demands of travel and protect your precious golf clubs. Below, we present our top picks for the best golf bag travel cases, selected based on a range of factors to guide you in making an informed decision for your specific needs.
The Quick List
MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover
Top Pick
MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover
The MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover is a top all-around choice, offering exceptional value, easy transport, and robust protection against travel rigors.
Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover
Best with Wheels
Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover
Effortlessly glide through airports with the Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian. Its integrated wheels make traveling a breeze, setting it apart from standard travel covers.
Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover
Best Padding
Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover
For ultimate protection, the Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover offers superior padding and a robust design, ensuring your clubs are safe on international trips.
BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover
Best for Airlines
BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover
Lightweight, maneuverable, and with ample storage, the BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover is perfectly designed for frequent airline travel with your golf clubs.
Sun Mountain Kube
Best Hard Case
Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover
The Sun Mountain Kube offers a unique folding hard-case design, providing exceptional padded protection in a sleek and conveniently storable form.
Ram FX Golf Travel Cover
Best Budget
Ram FX Golf Travel Cover
The Ram FX Travel Cover delivers excellent protection and ample space at an affordable price, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious golfers.
Titleist Players Travel Cover
Best Durability
Titleist Players Travel Cover
Travel confidently with the Titleist Players Travel Cover, known for its robust construction and high-quality materials, ensuring maximum durability and club security.
Read more below
Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid
Best Color Choice
Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid
Stand out at baggage claim with the Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid, available in a range of colors and offering excellent all-around performance for travelling golfers.
Best Golf Bag Travel Cases: Detailed Reviews
Why Trust Golf Monthly? Our expert golf equipment reviewers rigorously test and compare products to provide unbiased recommendations, helping you choose the best golf bag travel case for your needs. Learn more about our testing process.
Top Pick: MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover
MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover showcasing a golf bag inside, zipped up for secure travel
MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover with a securely zipped golf bag inside, highlighting its protective design.
(Image credit: MHopley)
MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover
Editor’s Choice for best overall golf bag travel case.
Read our expert review
Specifications
- Material: Nylon
- Wheels: 2
- Weight: 3kg / 6.6lbs
- Pockets: 1
Reasons to Buy
- Durable and robust cover material
- Generous storage space for clubs and gear
- Provides a high level of protection
Reasons to Avoid
- Slightly heavier compared to other travel covers in its class
- External pocket could benefit from more robust construction
The MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover earns our top pick as the best golf bag travel case for all-around performance because it reliably ticks every essential box. Its construction is notably well-executed, utilizing durable fabrics throughout. The level of protection is impressive, particularly the additional padding at the top, which is strategically placed to safeguard club heads. We also value the internal support strap, a key feature that secures your golf bag in place. A stable bag inside the travel cover significantly reduces the risk of club damage compared to a bag that can shift freely during transit.
The thoughtful features continue with external straps that effectively prevent the cover from accidentally opening during travel. A lockable dual zipper further enhances security and peace of mind.
Functionality is also a strong point. The VIP II Premium offers ample space, comfortably accommodating not only a standard golf bag but also extra items like clothing and golf shoes. This extra space is invaluable, freeing up room in your main suitcase and providing secure storage for valuable golf shoes alongside your clubs. Best of all, the MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover is offered at a very competitive price point, making it a fantastic value proposition among the reviewed models.
Best with Wheels: Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover
Sun Mountain Club Glider Meridian Travel Cover in use at an airport, demonstrating its smooth rolling capability
The Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover effortlessly wheeled through an airport, showcasing its user-friendly design.
(Image credit: Future)
Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover
The best wheeled golf bag travel case, designed for effortless airport navigation.
Read our expert review
Specifications
- Material: Nylon
- Wheels: 4
- Weight: 5.13kgs / 11.3lbs
- Pockets: 2
Reasons to Buy
- Easily fits both stand and cart golf bags
- Integrated wheels dramatically enhance maneuverability
- High-quality and robust construction
Reasons to Avoid
- On the heavier side compared to other travel bags
- Retracting legs/wheels can be slightly tricky to manage
As its name suggests, the ClubGlider Meridian from Sun Mountain, a respected name in golf bags, is engineered to simplify airport navigation. This best golf bag travel case with wheels features an ingenious integrated leg mechanism that extends to provide extra support – particularly useful when managing additional luggage like suitcases and backpacks. Combined with two robust wheels at the base, it essentially becomes a four-wheeled travel cover that glides with exceptional ease.
In practical use, the ClubGlider Meridian excels. We were particularly impressed by how effortlessly the bag pulls along and the robustness of the wheels. Wheels are often vulnerable to damage, but both the fixed and retractable wheels on this model appear exceptionally durable. The quality of padding is also reassuringly high, with particularly thick padding around the club head area for enhanced protection against impact.
The internal space is generous, easily accommodating a full-sized golf bag and extras. Two internal support straps further secure the contents, minimizing movement during transit. Additionally, two large external pockets on either side offer ample space for rain gear, golf shoes, and other accessories. The Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian is the best golf bag travel case for golfers who prioritize ease of movement and robust construction when travelling.
Best Padding: Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover
Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover standing upright in an airport departure lounge, highlighting its protective padding
Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover in an airport lounge, showcasing its substantial padding and protective features.
(Image credit: Future)
Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover
The best padded golf bag travel case, offering superior protection for your valuable clubs.
Read our expert review
Specifications
- Materials: Durable Nylon
- Wheels: 6
- Weight: 4.10kg / 9lbs
- Pockets: 2
Reasons to Buy
- Exceptional protection and extensive padding
- Six-wheel design for effortless transportation
- Folds up compactly for convenient storage
Reasons to Avoid
- Color option limited to black
Motocaddy is well-known for producing some of the best electric golf trolleys and best golf cart bags. Given their reputation for quality, our expectations for the Flightsafe Travel Cover were high – and it delivered.
The level of protection offered by the Flightsafe is among the best we’ve encountered. It utilizes a combination of hard-wearing nylon fabrics and generous padding precisely positioned in critical impact zones. The inclusion of six wheels at the base is a standout feature. We found these wheels made maneuvering the bag exceptionally easy, even in crowded airport terminals. This six-wheel configuration makes it arguably the best golf bag travel case for smooth and stable rolling.
Perhaps its most appealing aspect is the overall size. It strikes a perfect balance – large enough to comfortably accommodate a full-size golf bag, yet not overly bulky or cumbersome. We even found room for extra items like clothing and shoes. Once your bag is inside, two adjustable internal straps prevent movement during transit, and additional external straps provide a ‘belt and braces’ approach to club security. The Flightsafe also folds down neatly for easy storage when not in use.
The only minor drawback is the limited color choice – it’s only available in black. While black provides a classic and sophisticated look, it might make it slightly harder to spot on a busy airport baggage carousel. However, for superior protection and ease of use, the Motocaddy Flightsafe is a top contender for the best golf bag travel case.
Best for Airlines: BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover
BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover standing on grass, highlighting its lightweight and airline-friendly design
The BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover positioned on grass, emphasizing its portability and suitability for airline travel.
(Image credit: Mike Bailey)
BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover
The best golf bag travel case for airline travel, designed for lightweight convenience and frequent flyers.
Read our expert review
Specifications
- Material: High-density foam top cushioning
- Wheels: 2
- Weight: N/A (Lightweight Design)
- Pockets: 1
Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight and compact, yet spacious interior
- Wrap-around front zipper for easy loading and unloading
- Excellent value for money
Reasons to Avoid
- Protection level not as robust as more expensive hard case covers
If you frequently fly with your golf clubs, the BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover is our top recommendation as the best golf bag travel case for airlines.
It’s exceptionally practical for frequent travelers, starting with its full wraparound zipper. This design allows the front of the case to open completely, simplifying the process of placing your golf bag inside and removing it upon arrival – no struggling or awkward angles. It also packs down easily, saving valuable storage space when not in use.
The T-660 showcases excellent attention to detail throughout. Reinforced corners, skid bars, and a skid plate enhance its durability and protection. Combined with high-quality construction and materials, it provides ample protection, giving you confidence that your clubs will arrive safely at your destination.
Maneuvering the BagBoy T-660 is easy thanks to smooth inline wheels. A spacious front pocket offers convenient storage for rain jackets, trousers, extra clothing, and golf shoes. The fact that it’s also very affordable makes the BagBoy T-660 an even more appealing choice for the budget-conscious and frequent flying golfer seeking the best golf bag travel case for airline travel.
Best Hard Case: Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover
Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover showcasing its hard case shell and compact, foldable design
Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover highlighting its robust hard case shell and unique foldable feature for easy storage.
(Image credit: Future)
Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover
The best hard case golf bag travel case, offering a unique combination of hard-shell protection and convenient storage.
Read our expert review
Specifications
- Material: Ballistic-style nylon
- Wheels: 2
- Weight: 3kgs / 6.6lbs
- Pockets: 2
Reasons to Buy
- Robust hard case shell provides excellent protection
- Unique folding design for compact storage
- Available in a variety of colors
Reasons to Avoid
- Limited additional storage pockets compared to soft-shell options
If you’ve been involved in golf for any length of time, you’re likely familiar with the quality and reputation of best Sun Mountain golf bags. Their popularity is well-deserved, so it’s no surprise that the Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover performs exceptionally well.
It features an innovative and unique design, built around a hard-case shell that cleverly folds away for storage. This hard shell provides superior protection for your clubs, exceeding that of soft-shell covers, while still offering relatively easy storage when not in use. Complementing the hard case is a reinforced padded area at the top, along with internal and external straps to secure your golf bag and prevent club movement during transit. This combination makes it the best hard case golf bag travel case for golfers seeking maximum protection.
The Kube is equipped with external wheels, which greatly enhance maneuverability, further aided by its lightweight design at just 3.08kg/6.6lbs – making it one of the lightest hard case options reviewed. A sturdy carrying handle completes the design, resulting in a well-engineered and robust travel case that’s perfectly suited for its purpose.
Best Budget: Ram FX Golf Travel Cover
Ram Fx golf travel cover resting on an airport floor, showcasing its affordability and practical design
Ram Fx golf travel cover on an airport floor, highlighting its value and functional features for budget-conscious travelers.
(Image credit: Future)
Ram FX Golf Travel Cover
The best budget golf bag travel case, offering sturdy protection and practical features at an affordable price.
Read our expert review
Specifications
- Material: Rip stop 600D fabric
- Wheels: 2
- Weight: 3.5kgs / 7.7lbs
- Pockets: 4
Reasons to Buy
- Easy to transport and maneuver
- Ample padding for club protection
- Extra side pockets provide useful storage for golf accessories
Reasons to Avoid
- Slightly heavier than some premium travel covers
If you only travel with your clubs occasionally, investing heavily in a premium travel bag might not be your priority. In this case, the Ram FX Golf Travel Cover is an excellent affordable option that provides great value without sacrificing essential features. It stands out as the best budget golf bag travel case for golfers who need reliable protection without breaking the bank.
Despite its lower price point, the Ram FX maintains a high standard of quality. The cover is primarily constructed from a ripstop fabric that proved to be remarkably durable during our testing. Protection is also well-addressed, with substantial padding around the club head area and an internal strap to keep your golf bag securely in place.
We were equally impressed by the storage capacity. While the main compartment easily accommodates various golf bag sizes, four external pockets offer additional space for clothing, shoes, and other golf accessories. This extra storage helps keep all your golf gear organized and frees up space in your suitcase or carry-on luggage. For golfers seeking a balance of price and performance, the Ram FX Golf Travel Cover is a smart choice.
Best Durability: Titleist Players Travel Cover
Titleist Players Travel Cover being wheeled through an airport, showcasing its robust and durable construction
Titleist Players Travel Cover being wheeled in an airport, emphasizing its durability and reliable performance for travel.
(Image credit: Future)
Titleist Players Travel Cover
The best durable golf bag travel case, built to withstand the rigors of frequent travel and provide long-lasting protection.
Read our expert review
Specifications
- Material: 1200D Polyester
- Wheels: 2
- Weight: N/A (Durable Design)
- Pockets: 3
Reasons to Buy
- Reputable and trusted brand (Titleist)
- Excellent value for its quality and durability
- Easy to transport and handle
- Secure internal strapping system
Reasons to Avoid
- Some golfers might prefer a four-wheel design for enhanced maneuverability
- Padding is adequate but not as extensive as some heavily padded models
The Titleist Players Travel Cover proved to be a reliable and excellent travel companion. We particularly appreciated its ease of movement. Equipped with a large, comfortable carry handle and two smooth-rolling wheels at the base, it was straightforward to lift in and out of taxis and onto baggage carousels. Navigating airport terminals was equally hassle-free. This ease of transport makes it a strong contender for the best durable golf bag travel case.
The Players Travel Cover effectively withstood the inevitable bumps and scrapes of travel. Travel covers are inherently subjected to rough handling, even with careful handling by you and baggage personnel. After multiple trips, our test bag remained in excellent condition, largely due to its robust outer fabric. Internal protection is ample, enhanced by a strap to secure your golf bag in place. The overall dimensions are generous, easily accommodating larger golf bags, such as best golf cart bags, and providing extra space even when using smaller carry bags.
Finally, the classic styling of the Titleist Players Travel Cover will appeal to many golfers, especially those who appreciate the brand’s heritage and play with best Titleist irons. For durability and reliable performance, this is a top choice.
Best Color Choice: Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid
Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid in a vibrant blue color, standing out with its unique and eye-catching design
Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid in a striking blue colorway, showcasing its distinctive and easily identifiable design.
(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid
The best golf bag travel case for color choice, allowing you to express your style and easily spot your bag at the airport.
Read our expert review
Specifications
- Material: 900D polyester
- Wheels: 2
- Weight: 4.2kg / 9.3lbs
- Pockets: 3
Reasons to Buy
- Easy to maneuver and handle
- Generous storage capacity
- Visually appealing and easy to spot in baggage claim, thanks to vibrant color options
Reasons to Avoid
- Padding at the top end could be slightly thicker for enhanced club head protection
- Larger tour bags might be a tight fit
Ogio golf bags are renowned for their vibrant colors and distinctive designs, offering a wide array of shades and patterns. The Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid is no exception. Our review model arrived in an eye-catching blue striped colorway called ‘Warp Speed,’ making it virtually impossible to miss on the luggage carousel. This variety of color options makes it the best golf bag travel case if you value personal style and easy identification.
However, a functional travel bag needs to be more than just visually appealing. Fortunately, the Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid is also an impressive performer. Despite being one of the heavier bags in our test group on paper, it didn’t feel cumbersome in practical use. We used it on multiple trips and consistently found it easy to lift and maneuver. Two well-positioned wheels and a sturdy pull strap contribute to its smooth mobility. Durability is enhanced by a skid plate that protects the base of the bag from wear and tear.
Club protection is also well-addressed, with adequate internal padding around the club heads and a couple of internal straps to secure your golf bag in place. For golfers who want a travel case that combines style with solid performance, the Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid is an excellent choice.
Golf Bag Travel Case Specifications
Swipe to scroll horizontally
| Model | Material | Wheels | Weight | Pockets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover | Nylon | 2 | 3kg/6.6lbs | 1 |
| Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover | Nylon | 4 | 5.13kgs/11.3lbs | 2 |
| Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover | Nylon | 6 | 4.10kg/9lbs | 2 |
| BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover | High-density foam top cushioning | 2 | N/A | 1 |
| Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover | Ballistic-style nylon | 2 | 3kgs/6.6lbs | 2 |
| Ram FX Golf Travel Cover | Rip stop 600D fabric | 2 | 3.5kgs/7.7lbs | 4 |
| Titleist Players Travel Cover | 1200D Polyester | 2 | N/A | 3 |
| Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid | 900D polyester | 2 | 4.2kg/9.3lbs | 3 |
Choosing the Right Golf Bag Travel Case: A Buying Guide
While all golf travel bags are designed to transport your clubs safely, significant differences exist between models. Some prioritize robustness, while others are lighter; some have wheels, and others don’t. Size and price also vary considerably. To help you select the best golf bag travel case for your specific needs, consider these key factors before making a purchase.
1. Strength, Durability, and Materials:
Golf travel bags endure considerable wear and tear, especially over time. They must consistently protect your clubs. Material choice, construction quality, and the thickness and placement of foam padding are crucial. Look for features like external and internal straps to secure your golf bag, skid plates for added protection against ground abrasion, and robust wheels designed to withstand airport handling. Investing in a durable golf bag travel case ensures long-term protection for your valuable equipment.
2. Maneuverability:
Wheels are essential for easy maneuverability. If you anticipate frequent airport transits, prioritize travel cases with three or even four wheels for enhanced stability and effortless gliding. For less frequent travel or shorter journeys by train or car, two-wheel models may suffice. Consider the type of wheels – inline skate wheels are generally smoother and more durable than basic plastic wheels. The best golf bag travel case will have wheels that are both robust and well-positioned for optimal handling.
3. Weight:
The ideal travel bag balances lightweight design with robust strength. You want a cover that is easy to carry and maneuver without compromising on protection. If weight is a primary concern, consider pairing your travel cover with one of the best lightweight golf bags to minimize the overall load. A lightweight golf bag travel case will reduce strain and make travel less tiring.
4. Warranty:
Warranty coverage is an important consideration, especially if your clubs or gear are damaged during travel. Check warranty terms with retailers and manufacturers to understand the duration and coverage offered. A longer warranty period generally indicates greater confidence in product durability and provides better peace of mind. Choosing a golf bag travel case with a solid warranty can protect your investment.
5. Budget:
Your budget is a significant factor. While it might be tempting to opt for the least expensive option, remember that compromising on quality can put your valuable clubs at risk. While you don’t necessarily need to spend a fortune, investing in a mid-range or higher-quality golf bag travel case is often a worthwhile investment for reliable protection. Explore options within your budget, but prioritize durability and essential features over the absolute lowest price. Remember to check guides for best golf travel bags for under $100 for budget-friendly options that still offer decent protection. Also, consider your typical golf bag type; guides on best golf pencil bags and best golf cart bags can help determine if you need extra space in your travel case.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Golf Bag Travel Cases
What are the key features to look for in a golf travel bag?
The primary features of a good golf bag travel case are strength and durability to withstand travel wear and tear. This includes robust, tear-resistant fabrics, internal features to protect clubs like compression straps and foam padding around the top, and strong, smoothly operating wheels.
How important is weight for a golf travel bag?
Weight is very important, especially for two-wheeled models, as you’ll be carrying the bag. Balancing lightness and strength is key; you don’t want to sacrifice either. The best golf bag travel cases are easy to maneuver, with wheels that glide smoothly and change direction easily. Models with more than two wheels often excel in maneuverability, but some two-wheel options, like the Sun Mountain Kube, also move well.
Can I pack other golf equipment in a travel bag besides clubs?
Yes, depending on airline or transport weight restrictions, you can often pack additional golf equipment in your golf bag travel case. This might include waterproof gear, golf shoes, golf clothing, and accessories, maximizing space and keeping your golf gear organized.
What type of golf travel bag do professional golfers typically use?
Research indicates that professional tour golfers often use the Club Glove Large Pro model. Its size accommodates tour-sized golf bags, the largest in the game, offering ample space and robust protection.
Is a golf travel bag essential for flying with golf clubs?
While not strictly mandatory, using a golf bag travel case is highly recommended when flying with golf clubs. It provides crucial protection against damage during transit, ensuring your valuable clubs arrive safely at your destination, ready for your game.
