Flying Riff Raff class can cost you big bucks when checking golf bags

Horrifying baggage policies implemented by several airlines have been striking fear in the hearts of frugal golfers. Charging for the first checked bag for travel each way within the U.S. in “riff raff” class (international flights are more generous) are American Airlines ($20); Continental , Northwest, Delta, US Air, and AirTran ($15 to $20) and others. If you haven’t checked in online, most airlines also charge a stupid extra fee of $5 at the airport

Carriers becoming rare breeds are Southwest Airlines which lets you check two bags free and Jet Blue which allows you one free bag. Good for them.

But first, you should know the “rules.” If you’re checking your golf bag, make sure overall dimensions are 62 inches (length + width + height) and weight is under 50 lbs. or extra fees could soar to $50 or $100. You can always pull out some of your junk to lighten it up, but how embarrassing is it to air your tightie whities while everyone in the line looks on.

Maybe on a fairness-to-all scale, on airport check-in you and your luggage should be weighed on a giant scale. Charges would be imposed per pound over a certain limit. After all why should all those skinny people who weigh less not be allowed more checked baggage than those fluffier types?

Light is key. Gone are the days of traveling with jumbo-sized luggage unless you have deep pockets..
Leave those heavy cart bags at home, bring fewer clubs (admit it, one less club isn’t going to change your game); and bring just a few balls (like six) and one pair of golf shoes. I also prefer a basic suitcase without all the extra pockets, organizers, and cute features like passport holders, things that add to the bag’s weight before it’s even packed,

As for golf travel bags, I have to go with Sun Mountain’s ClubGlider with the retractable legs. The bag supports 100% of the weight on retractable legs eliminating repeated bending and lifting. When I first unpacked it, I found its size a tad intimidating, but once I loaded in my clubs and snapped out the wheels, I realized I could pull the thing with my little finger. Even those checking me in had to give it a try.Those long hauls through airports suddenly became no problem. www.sunmountain.com

Bottom line: Luggage polices will continue to change, so check with your airlines before you fly so you have no surprises at the airport. And fly light.