Traveling to play different golf courses is a dream for many enthusiasts. Whether it’s a relaxing vacation with a few rounds or a bucket-list trip to iconic venues, transporting your golf clubs safely is crucial. Nothing spoils a golf trip faster than arriving to find your prized clubs damaged. That’s where the Best Rated Golf Travel Bags come in, offering peace of mind that your gear will arrive in perfect condition.
But what exactly defines a top-tier golf travel bag? It’s more than just a cover; it’s an investment in protecting your valuable equipment.
Firstly, durability is paramount. These bags need to withstand the rough handling of travel, be it by plane, train, or car. Look for robust, hard-wearing materials, solid construction, and ample padding. This ensures your expensive TaylorMade Qi35 driver or cherished Scotty Cameron putter remain safe from bumps and scrapes.
Portability is equally essential. A good golf travel bag should be easy to maneuver through airports and train stations without causing strain or frustration. Smooth, sturdy wheels are key for effortless navigation, and well-designed carry handles are also vital. Weight is another important factor; your golf bag is already heavy enough, so the travel cover shouldn’t add unnecessary bulk.
We’ve rigorously tested a wide array of travel bags on various golf trips, both near and far, to evaluate their performance. Our selection highlights the best options, considering factors like protection, ease of use, and value, to help you make an informed decision for your next golf adventure.
Top Golf Travel Bags at a Glance
Here’s a quick look at our top picks for the best rated golf travel bags:
- Top Pick: MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover – Exceptional value and robust protection.
- Best with Wheels: Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover – Effortless maneuverability with innovative wheels.
- Best Padding: Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover – Superior protection with generous padding.
- Best for Airlines: BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover – Lightweight and airline-friendly design.
- Best Hard Case: Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover – Unique hard case design for maximum protection.
- Best Budget: Ram FX Golf Travel Cover – Affordable protection without compromising quality.
- Best Durability: Titleist Players Travel Cover – Built to last, offering excellent durability.
- Best Color Choice: Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid – Stylish and functional with a range of color options.
Let’s delve deeper into each of these best rated golf travel bags and explore what makes them stand out.
MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover
Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover
Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover
BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover
Sun Mountain Kube
Ram FX Golf Travel Cover
Titleist Players Travel Cover
Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid
Detailed Reviews of the Best Rated Golf Travel Bags
At Golf Monthly, our commitment is to provide trustworthy and expert reviews. Our experienced reviewers dedicate countless hours to testing and comparing golf products to help you make the best choices. Learn more about our rigorous testing process.
Top Pick: MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover {#section-top-pick}
MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover
MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover showcasing a golf bag securely zipped inside.
(Image credit: MHopley)
MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover – Editor’s Choice
Read our in-depth review
Specifications:
- Material: Durable Nylon
- Wheels: 2
- Weight: 6.6lbs
- Pockets: 1
Reasons to Buy:
- Highly durable construction
- Generous storage capacity
- Excellent protection for clubs
Reasons to Avoid:
- Slightly heavier compared to some competitors
- External pocket could be more robust
The MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover earns our top recommendation as the best all-around option. It excels in all crucial areas, starting with its robust construction using durable fabrics. The level of protection is impressive, particularly the enhanced padding at the top, safeguarding club heads effectively. We also value the internal support strap, a key feature for securing your golf bag and minimizing club damage during transit – a loose bag inside is far more vulnerable.
Functionality is further enhanced by external straps that prevent accidental opening during travel, coupled with a lockable dual zipper for added security. Space isn’t an issue either; we easily accommodated a golf bag along with shoes and extra clothing. This extra space is not only convenient but also provides secure storage for valuable golf shoes, keeping them protected alongside your clubs. Remarkably, the MacGregor VIP II offers all these features without being the most expensive option on the market, making it an exceptional value.
Best with Wheels: Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover {#section-best-with-wheels}
Sun Mountain Club Glider Meridian Travel Cover at an airport
The Sun Mountain Club Glider Meridian Travel Cover effortlessly navigating an airport.
(Image credit: Future)
Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover – Superior Wheeled Design
Read our expert review
Specifications:
- Material: Premium Nylon
- Wheels: 4
- Weight: 11.3lbs
- Pockets: 2
Reasons to Buy:
- Easily fits stand and cart bags
- Exceptional maneuverability with wheels
- High-quality and durable
Reasons to Avoid:
- On the heavier side for a travel bag
- Retracting legs/wheels can be slightly cumbersome
As its name suggests, the Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian is designed to simplify airport navigation. It features a smart, integrated leg that extends to provide additional support – ideal when managing a suitcase and backpack simultaneously. Combined with four sturdy wheels at the base, this cover glides effortlessly.
In practice, the ClubGlider Meridian excels. We were impressed by its ease of pulling and the robustness of the wheels. These wheels, along with the retractable mechanism, are built to withstand travel rigors. The padding is also reassuringly high quality, particularly thick at the top to shield club heads.
The bag offers ample internal space and includes two internal support straps to secure contents. Two large external pockets provide additional storage for rain gear, golf shoes, and accessories. While slightly heavier, the enhanced maneuverability and robust build quality of the ClubGlider Meridian make it a top choice for ease of travel.
Best Padding: Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover {#section-best-padding}
Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover in an airport lounge
The Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover resting in a departure lounge, showcasing its robust design.
(Image credit: Future)
Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover – Maximum Club Protection
Explore our detailed review
Specifications:
- Materials: Durable Nylon
- Wheels: 6
- Weight: 9lbs
- Pockets: 2
Reasons to Buy:
- Outstanding protection and extensive padding
- Effortless transportation with six-wheel design
- Folds for convenient storage
Reasons to Avoid:
- Available only in black
Motocaddy, renowned for its best electric golf trolleys and best golf cart bags, lives up to its reputation with the Flightsafe Travel Cover. Our expectations were high, and it exceeded them.
The Flightsafe delivers unparalleled protection, combining heavy-duty nylon with generous padding strategically placed in critical areas. Six wheels at the base make navigating even busy airports a breeze. Its size is perfectly balanced – spacious enough for a full-size golf bag with extra room for clothing and shoes, yet not overly bulky.
Internal adjustable straps prevent bag movement during transit, and external straps offer an extra layer of security. The Flightsafe also folds down for easy storage when not in use. The only minor drawback is the limited color choice; it’s exclusively available in black. While stylish, this can make it slightly harder to spot on a crowded baggage carousel. However, for ultimate protection, the Motocaddy Flightsafe is a top contender.
Best for Airlines: BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover {#section-best-for-airlines}
BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover on the ground
The BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover resting on grass, highlighting its lightweight design.
(Image credit: Mike Bailey)
BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover – Airline Travel Made Easy
Read our comprehensive review
Specifications:
- Material: High-density foam top cushioning
- Wheels: 2
- Weight: Lightweight Design (Weight N/A)
- Pockets: 1
Reasons to Buy:
- Lightweight and compact, yet spacious
- Full wraparound zipper for easy access
- Excellent value for money
Reasons to Avoid:
- Protection level not as high as premium covers
For frequent flyers, the BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover is our top recommendation. It’s exceptionally practical for airline travel, featuring a full wraparound zipper that opens the front completely. This design simplifies loading and unloading your golf bag, eliminating any hassle. It’s also easily packable, saving valuable storage space when not in use.
The T-660 boasts thoughtful details like reinforced corners, skid bars, and a skid plate. Combined with quality construction and materials, it provides reliable protection, ensuring your clubs arrive safely. Maneuverability is excellent thanks to inline wheels, and a spacious front pocket accommodates rain gear, extra clothing, and shoes. Its affordability further enhances the BagBoy T-660’s appeal, making it a smart choice for regular golf travelers.
Best Hard Case: Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover {#section-best-hard-case}
Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover review
Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover with its unique, foldable hard case design.
(Image credit: Future)
Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover – Innovative Hard Case Protection
Explore our in-depth review
Specifications:
- Material: Ballistic-style nylon
- Wheels: 2
- Weight: 6.6lbs
- Pockets: 2
Reasons to Buy:
- Robust hard case that folds for storage
- Variety of color options
Reasons to Avoid:
- Limited additional storage pockets
Sun Mountain, a leader in best Sun Mountain golf bags, continues to innovate with the Kube Travel Cover. Its unique hard-case shell provides exceptional protection while folding down for convenient storage – a standout design feature.
The Kube combines the hard case with reinforced padding at the top and internal/external straps to secure your bag and prevent club damage from internal movement. External wheels and a light weight of just 6.6lbs enhance maneuverability. A sturdy carry handle adds to its user-friendly design. The Sun Mountain Kube is a robust and well-thought-out travel bag, ideal for golfers prioritizing maximum protection and space-saving storage.
Best Budget: Ram FX Golf Travel Cover {#section-best-budget}
Ram Fx golf travel cover review
Ram Fx golf travel cover review in an airport setting, showcasing its value.
(Image credit: Future)
Ram FX Golf Travel Cover – Affordable and Reliable
Read our expert assessment
Specifications:
- Material: Rip stop 600D fabric
- Wheels: 2
- Weight: 7.7lbs
- Pockets: 4
Reasons to Buy:
- Easy to transport
- Ample padding for protection
- Useful extra side pockets
Reasons to Avoid:
- Heavier than some premium travel covers
For occasional golf travelers, the Ram FX Golf Travel Cover offers excellent value without sacrificing quality. Despite its budget-friendly price, it’s constructed from durable ripstop fabric that proved sturdy during our tests. It provides good protection with extra padding around the club heads and an internal strap to secure your golf bag.
Storage is another strong point. Besides the spacious main compartment, it features external pockets for clothing, shoes, and golf accessories, consolidating your gear and freeing up space in your luggage. The Ram FX delivers impressive performance and practicality at an accessible price point, making it our best budget pick.
Best Durability: Titleist Players Travel Cover {#section-best-durability}
Titleist Players Travel Cover at the airport
Titleist Players Travel Cover being wheeled through an airport, emphasizing its durability.
(Image credit: Future)
Titleist Players Travel Cover – Built to Withstand Travel Rigors
See our full review
Specifications:
- Material: 1200D Polyester
- Wheels: 2
- Weight: Durable Design (Weight N/A)
- Pockets: 3
Reasons to Buy:
- Trusted brand reputation
- Good value proposition
- Easy to transport and handle
- Secure strapping system
Reasons to Avoid:
- Two-wheel design might not suit everyone
- Padding could be more extensive
The Titleist Players Travel Cover is a reliable travel companion from a leading golf brand. Its maneuverability is excellent, featuring a large carry handle and two smooth-rolling wheels for easy lifting and airport navigation.
It’s built to endure the bumps and scrapes of travel, with a robust outer fabric that remained intact after multiple trips. Internal protection is adequate, enhanced by a strap to secure your golf bag. The spacious design accommodates larger bags, including best golf cart bags, and still provides extra room for gear. Its classic Titleist styling will appeal to many, especially those who use best Titleist irons. The Titleist Players Travel Cover is a durable and dependable choice.
Best Color Choice: Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid {#section-best-color-choice}
Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid in blue
Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid in a striking blue color, highlighting its style.
(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid – Stand Out Style and Performance
Read our comprehensive review
Specifications:
- Material: 900D polyester
- Wheels: 2
- Weight: 9.3lbs
- Pockets: 3
Reasons to Buy:
- Easy to maneuver and handle
- Ample storage capacity
- Eye-catching design, easy to spot
Reasons to Avoid:
- Top padding could be thicker
- May not fit very large tour bags
Ogio golf bags are known for their vibrant colors and patterns, and the Alpha Travel Cover Mid is no exception. Our test bag in ‘Warp Speed’ blue stripes was instantly recognizable at baggage claim. Beyond aesthetics, the Ogio Alpha is a strong performer. Despite being among the heavier bags tested, it felt surprisingly light and easy to maneuver in use. Multiple trips confirmed its ease of lifting and pulling, aided by well-placed wheels and a sturdy tow strap. A skid plate enhances durability by protecting the base.
Club protection is well-addressed with good internal padding around the club heads and internal straps to secure the bag. The Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid combines standout style with reliable performance, making it ideal for golfers who want to make a statement while ensuring their clubs are well-protected.
Golf Travel Bag Specifications: A Detailed Comparison
| Model | Material | Wheels | Weight | Pockets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover | Nylon | 2 | 6.6lbs | 1 |
| Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover | Nylon | 4 | 11.3lbs | 2 |
| Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover | Nylon | 6 | 9lbs | 2 |
| BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover | High-density foam cushioning | 2 | N/A | 1 |
| Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover | Ballistic-style nylon | 2 | 6.6lbs | 2 |
| Ram FX Golf Travel Cover | Rip stop 600D fabric | 2 | 7.7lbs | 4 |
| Titleist Players Travel Cover | 1200D Polyester | 2 | N/A | 3 |
| Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid | 900D polyester | 2 | 9.3lbs | 3 |
Our Testing Methodology for Golf Travel Bags
At Golf Monthly, our reviews are built on real-world testing. We take golf travel bags on actual trips to assess how they perform under typical travel conditions. Our evaluation covers quality, ease of use, size, and the utility of additional pockets.
This thorough approach applies to all our reviews – from clubs to tech to apparel. We test products extensively in diverse conditions to provide accurate performance assessments. Importantly, our reviews are independent and unbiased. Brands cannot influence our ratings; our conclusions are based solely on our testing and expert experiences. This commitment to unbiased testing makes Golf Monthly a trusted resource for golfers seeking reliable equipment recommendations.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Golf Travel Bag
While all golf travel bags aim to protect your clubs, significant differences exist. Some are more durable, others lighter, some have wheels, and features vary. To help you select the right golf travel cover, consider these factors:
1. Strength, Durability, and Materials:
Travel bags endure considerable wear and tear, and must consistently protect your clubs. Material quality, construction, and padding thickness and placement are crucial. Look for features like internal and external straps to secure your golf bag, skid plates for added protection, and robust wheels designed to withstand airport handling.
2. Maneuverability:
Wheels are vital for easy transport. If you frequently navigate airports, opt for bags with three or four wheels for enhanced maneuverability. For less frequent travel or shorter trips by train or car, two-wheel models may suffice.
3. Weight:
The best golf travel bags balance lightness with strength. If weight is a concern, consider pairing your travel cover with one of the best lightweight golf bags to minimize overall weight.
4. Warranty:
Consider the warranty, especially in case of damage to your clubs or gear. Check warranty duration with retailers and manufacturers; longer warranties offer better peace of mind.
5. Budget:
Determine your budget carefully. While you might want to minimize spending on infrequently used items, investing in a quality travel bag is crucial to protect your valuable clubs. However, as our reviews show, excellent options are available across various price points. For budget-conscious shoppers, explore our guide to the best golf travel bags for under $100, as well as our recommendations for best golf pencil bags and best golf cart bags for related golf gear.
Frequently Asked Questions About Golf Travel Bags
What features should I look for in a travel bag?
A good travel bag must be strong and durable to withstand travel wear and tear. Key features include tear-resistant fabrics, internal and external compression straps, and foam padding around the top for club head protection. Robust, smooth-rolling wheels are also essential.
How important is weight for a golf travel bag?
Weight is very important, especially for two-wheeled models. Balancing lightness and strength is key; avoid compromising either. Easy maneuverability is crucial, requiring wheels that roll smoothly and change direction effectively. Multi-wheel models often excel in maneuverability, but some two-wheel options, like the Sun Mountain Kube, also perform well.
Can I pack other golf equipment in a travel bag?
Yes, depending on airline or transport weight restrictions. You can often include waterproof gear, golf shoes, and extra golf apparel in your travel bag along with your clubs.
What type of travel bag do professional golfers use?
Research indicates that tour professionals often use the Club Glove Large Pro model. Its size accommodates tour golf bags, which are the largest in golf.
Is a travel bag necessary for flying with golf clubs?
While not strictly mandatory, a travel bag is highly recommended to protect your golf clubs from damage during air travel. It provides essential protection against rough handling.
