Traveling with golf clubs can cause some serious anxiety for golfers. But the Bag Boy Backbone Travel Cover Support is here to ease some of that anxiety and ensure your golf clubs arrive safely to your destination.
Because let’s face it, is there anything scarier than going on a golf trip only to find your clubs broken or severely damaged? After seeing enough TSA videos on social media and YouTube, it’s safe to say not all of them love golf quite like we do.
Luckily, Bag Boy has a great new gadget to help you fly with peace of mind. In this article we’ll review the handy golf accessory and also share some best tips to travel with golf clubs.
Bag Boy Backbone Travel Cover Support Review
Key Takeaways
- Traveling with golf clubs is stressful but the Bag Boy Backbone can help.
- If you use a soft cover case while traveling with golf clubs you should have a backbone for additional support.
- Airlines aren’t great when it comes to replacing or covering costs with golf clubs so it’s a good idea to protect them as much as possible.
Keep reading to learn why we think this is a no-brainer gadget if you’re flying with golf clubs.
Maximum Golf Club Protection
When it comes to bringing your golf clubs on airplane you have two options; a hard shell or soft cover case. Both have their pros and cons but ultimately, soft shell cases are easier to roll around the airport and fit more comfortably in a car or trunk. But sadly, they’re a little more flimsy in terms of structure and don’t have quite the support of a hard shell case.
What’s the solution?
A Bag Boy Backbone Travel Cover Support system.
This 100% aluminum, collapsible pole protects your clubs while traveling. The rod fits in your golf bag and extends up to 54 inches (about 8–9 inches longer than a standard driver) to give your soft case structure.
Now, your driver, fairway woods, and hybrids aren’t nearly as exposed at the top of your bag where there is the least amount of protection. This small device has a durable top cap that is oversized and rests above the clubs for tons of protection.
Lightweight Design
Not to mention, it’s very lightweight and easy to store. As Bag Boy said, “Three telescoping sections easily collapse and expand for preferred protection length, adjust up to 54” and collapse to 23.5” for easy storage.”
This is great because it won’t take up too much space and won’t weigh your bag down. Since most airlines have a 40-50 pound weight limit, the last thing you want is a device that takes up 5–10 pounds. Instead, the lightweight aluminum shaft barely adds any weight to your travel bag.
Easy to Use
Another perk with this travel aid is how easy it is to use. As Bag Boy said, “A simple push button allows you to adjust the length, while an oversized cap provides maximum club protection, making this support system perfect for use with a variety of different travel covers.”
Once you’ve packed your golf bag and put it in the travel case, simply insert the Backbone Travel Cover near your driver, hit the button and you’re all set. The umbrella design of this telescopic aluminum rod fits inside any golf bag and can be easily lowered or raised to fit your bag perfectly.
When you aren’t using and need to store in your garage or closet, simply push it down to the smallest 23.5 inch size. This makes it easy to store pretty much anywhere and not take up extra space.
Other Golf Travel Tips
Aside from using this protective shield, here are a few other tips to help you travel with golf clubs.
- Take direct flights if possible.
- Take pictures and videos of your clubs when packing.
- Always check the weight limit of your airline ahead of time.
- Make sure your contact information is on or in the bag in case it gets lost.
- Pack extra towels in between your clubs to minimize scratching or other damage.
- Don’t store any valuables in your golf travel bags and put them in carry-on baggage instead.
- Buy an Apple AirTag so you can track your bags from anywhere using “Find my iPhone.” This makes it easier to find them if God forbid they get lost.
- Optional: Pack an extra driver shaft if you have one as that is typically the hardest shaft to replace. Not to mention arguably the most important golf club in the bag too.
Related Items
Here are a few other items that can make flying with golf clubs easier.
Apple AirTag
To get even more peace of mind buy an Apple AirTag tracking device to easily track your golf clubs in transit. Using the app you can always check their location and you’ll forget it’s in your bag since it’s so small. Arguably the best money you can spend for maximum peace of mind.
TSA Approved Lock
Want even more protection for your golf clubs? This TSA approved lock is a nominal fee and can make sure your gear has extra protection. But it’s TSA approved so they can easily unlock it.
My Thoughts
Traveling with golf clubs is always scary as we’ve all read/heard too many horror stories from other golfers. But if you have a good case, this Bag Boy Backbone, and follow the travel tips above, you should be good. The peace of mind you get from this device is worth it and it should last for years (if not decades) due to the simple design.
FAQs About Golf Travel
Do you have more questions about traveling to play golf? If so, keep reading to learn more now.
How do I protect my driver in a travel bag?
Great question because your driver is the most expensive club in the bag and used frequently during the round. You have a few options to protect it during travel:
- Buy a Bag Boy Backbone.
- Always leave your headcovers on woods/hybrids.
- Add extra towels between your woods and driver for more protection.
- Remove the driver head and pack it in your golf bag (make sure to wrap it in a towel and don’t forget a wrench).
Not to mention I’ve even seen golfers also bubble wrap their clubs too. These tips should help your driver avoid damage.
Does this fit in any golf bag?
This rod is so small it should have no issue fitting in a cart, stand, or hybrid bag. The only bag it wouldn’t likely fit in is a Sunday bag since they only allow 7-8 golf clubs.
Do airlines check golf bags?
Yes, but you should always buy a golf travel bag or they can get damaged. Airlines treat them as normal luggage despite their oversized design. Weight limits do apply so always confirm the limit of the airline you’re flying ahead of time to avoid extra baggage fees.
Final Thoughts on Golf Travel
The Bag Boy Backbone is one of the best investments you can make when it comes to traveling with clubs. The small and affordable device ensures your bag has structure even if you buy a cheaper, soft shell case.
The travel cover fits in your bag with ease, provides tons of support, and won’t weigh your bag down. Plus, it’s easy to store when not in use making it a great idea for avid travelers. Paired with the travel tips above your clubs should make it to your destination safely (and in one piece).
Here are some of our favorite golf travel bags:
- SKB Hard Shell Review
- The Best Golf Travel Bags
- Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian