Are hard or soft golf travel cases better?
Golf clubs are not only expensive but can be irreplaceable if the manufacturer discontinued a model you really like. So it makes sense golfers want to do everything possible to keep them safe when traveling.
Hard models offer the most protection but soft travel cases are lighter weight and can be more convenient to store. There are also several other pros and cons to consider that will make one more suitable for your needs than the other.
Shop this article: Samsonite Hard-Sided Golf Travel Case, SKB Cases ATA Standard Hard-Shell Wheeled Golf Bag Carrier and Sun Mountain Golf ClubGlider Meridian Club Cover Travel Bag
Hard golf travel cases
Hard golf travel cases have a rigid structure similar to hard-sided luggage. Nearly all feature thick interior padding and have wheels for easy maneuverability. They can also be carried like a suitcase if needed. Hard cases close securely via latches, often with locks approved by the Transportation Security Administration and are available in styles that accommodate just your clubs or your clubs and golf bag. Most cost $200-$350.
Hard golf travel case pros
- Highest level of protection
- Secure latches
- Thick interior padding
- Often equipped with TSA-approved locks
- Some have spinner wheels
Hard golf travel case cons
- Heavier than soft cases
- Require a lot of storage space
- Can be difficult to fit inside vehicles
Best hard golf travel case
Samsonite Hard-Sided Golf Travel Case
Combining a high level of protection with a conveniently portable design, this case does a good job of keeping your clubs safe without being a hassle to roll around. It features multidirectional spinner wheels and has a quilted interior with extra foam at the top, where it’s most needed.
Sold by Amazon
Best hard golf travel case for the money
SKB Cases ATA Standard Hard-Shell Wheeled Golf Bag Carrier
This case is made from sturdy, high-density polyethylene and is equipped with industrial-strength latches and a TSA-approved lock so your clubs will arrive safely at their destination. Despite this, it’s a pound or so lighter than many other hard cases.
Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Ram Golf Ultimate Hard-Sided Travel Cover
This hard-sided case has many of the same features as the most popular luggage, including a tough thermoplastic shell, compression straps, spinner wheels and a TSA-approved lock. It’s equipped with plenty of interior padding and two handles for convenient lifting.
Sold by Amazon
Soft golf travel cases
Soft cases lack a rigid structure and, instead, are made entirely of durable fabrics such as polyester or nylon. There are also hybrid cases that feature a rigid shell around the club head area but are soft fabric everywhere else. Some have interior padding. Some of the cheapest lack wheels.
Unlike hard cases, soft cases close via a zipper, which some people feel makes them more likely to open up during travel. You can prevent this by attaching a small TSA-approved luggage lock if your bag allows for that. Most soft travel cases cost $50-$300.
Soft golf travel case pros
- More affordable
- Lightweight construction
- Commonly feature an easy-to-access exterior pocket
- Fold up for storage when not in use
Soft golf travel case cons
- Uninsurable with many airlines
- May have little to no padding
- Leave clubs more susceptible to damage
Best soft golf travel case
Sun Mountain Golf ClubGlider Meridian Club Cover Travel Bag
Thanks to flip-out support legs and smooth-rolling wheels, this case eliminates most of the hassle of traveling with your clubs. It comes in several colors and features an ID window so you can label it with your personal information.
Sold by Amazon
Best soft golf travel case for the money
This lightweight case is a good choice for those who are on a budget but lacks some of the padding found in many of the more expensive options. It’s both weather- and tear-resistant and features internal compression straps to hold your clubs in place.
Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Sun Mountain Kube Golf Travel Cover
The Kube combines elements of hard and soft cases to give you the best of both worlds. It offers extra protection and durability where it’s most needed, yet still maintains a lightweight construction. Plus, it folds down into a cube barely larger than 1 cubic foot when not needed.
Sold by Amazon
Should you buy a hard golf travel case or a soft golf travel case?
The decision comes down to your budget, storage space and how much protection you want for your clubs. If budget and storage between uses aren’t issues, and you want the maximum protection for your clubs, hard cases are the way to go. If money or storage is a bit tight, and you can make do with less protection, you’ll likely prefer a soft case.
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Brett Dvoretz writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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