What’s the best way to fly with golf clubs to Scottsdale?

Use a durable travel bag, pack clubs tightly with clothes, and fly nonstop when possible. Avoid budget airlines with high gear fees.

Should I ship my golf clubs to Scottsdale?

If you're traveling on a tight schedule or want to avoid airline risk, Ship Sticks or FedEx can deliver clubs directly to your hotel.

Do Scottsdale hotels accept shipped golf clubs?

Yes, most golf-friendly hotels will hold your clubs — just confirm in advance and label clearly with your name and arrival date.

Scottsdale

How to Fly With Golf Clubs to Scottsdale (Stress-Free Guide)

A stress-free guide to flying with your golf clubs to Scottsdale, covering airlines, bags, packing hacks, and airport logistics.

gray steel golf clubs on selective focus photo

September 7, 2025 · 6 min read

Flying with golf clubs doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re heading to Scottsdale for a bachelor party, buddies trip, or solo weekend escape, getting your sticks there safely and smoothly is key.

Here’s your complete guide to flying with golf clubs to Scottsdale, what bag to use, which airlines are golf-friendly, how to pack, and when to consider shipping instead.

Quick Answer: What is the Best Way to Fly With Clubs?

Use a hard-shell travel case, pack your clubs snugly with towels or clothes, fly nonstop if possible, and avoid budget airlines that charge high fees. Consider Ship Sticks for premium trips or if you want to travel hands-free.

Do All Airlines Accept Golf Bags?

Yes, but not all are created equal.

Here’s how major U.S. airlines handle golf clubs:

Southwest: No oversize fee, clubs count as 1 of 2 free checked bags
Delta / United / American: Clubs count as a standard checked bag (up to 50 lbs)
Spirit / Frontier: Clubs are extra and pricey

Tip: Always check the specific airline policy page for golf bags before you book.

Best Travel Golf Bags for Scottsdale Trips

Invest in the right travel case once, and you’re golden.

Recommended Cases:

Club Glove Last Bag: Tour-level, ultra durable
Sun Mountain Club Glider: Smooth wheels, best for airport maneuvering
SKB Hard Case: Maximum protection for longer flights or multiple connections

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Packing Your Clubs Like a Pro

To avoid broken drivers or bent shafts:

Remove the driver head if possible and store it separately
Stuff towels, socks, or clothing around the clubheads
Use a Stiff Arm (club protector rod) to absorb impact
Don’t pack extra balls or shoes if you’re close to the weight limit

When to Ship Instead of Fly

If you're flying in late, have a tight connection, or simply want an easier travel day, shipping can be worthwhile.

Best Shipping Services:

Ship Sticks: Door-to-door service, insurance, tracking
FedEx / UPS: Use only if you're experienced with packaging and labeling

Average cost to ship one way to Scottsdale: ~$50–90, depending on speed and insurance

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Where to Ship Golf Clubs in Scottsdale

If your hotel has a front desk or concierge, they’ll usually hold your clubs. Confirm this before booking.

Golf-Friendly Hotels (Club-Ready):

Talking Stick Resort
Hyatt House Old Town
Canopy by Hilton Scottsdale
The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa

Sky Harbor Airport Tips for Golfers

Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) is one of the most golf-friendly airports in the country.

Pick-up areas have golf club–friendly loading zones
Rental car center is easy to access via the Sky Train
Rideshare drivers are used to golf bags

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Should You Rent Clubs in Scottsdale Instead?

If you’re playing casual rounds or flying ultralight, renting can work.

When It Makes Sense:

You’re playing only one round
You want to try new equipment
You’re flying Frontier, Spirit, or internationally

Many public courses in Scottsdale offer premium rentals (TaylorMade, Callaway, Titleist) for ~$45–65 per round.

Scottsdale Travel Tips from the Pros

Fly in the night before your first round to avoid delays
Check in early and let the agent know your bag is golf gear
Tag your bag with a “FRAGILE” sticker — it helps (sometimes)
Avoid layovers if possible, especially in bad-weather cities

Want to play right after landing? Check out Last-Minute Tee Times in Scottsdale

More Scottsdale Golf Trip Guides

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Whether you carry your sticks or ship them, this guide makes sure your clubs arrive in Scottsdale ready to roll.

Author

Ryan from 18Away Golf trip designer and editor

I help groups plan unforgettable itineraries across the top golf destinations in the U.S., blending real-golfer feedback with first-hand course research.

About the author · [email protected]

About This Scottsdale Guide

Every 18Away guide is independently written and updated by real golfers. We evaluate public access, group-friendly value, and proximity to top courses, referencing thousands of verified reviews, rate data, and on-site experience. Guides are refreshed regularly as conditions & pricing change over time.

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