best travel golf bag 2023

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The 8 Best Travel Golf Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Make sure your clubs arrive safely with these durable and portable travel golf bags.

In This Article

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• Our top picks

Our Testing Process

• Others We Liked
• Other Gear You May Need
• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

A durable golf travel bag is essential for protecting your clubs and giving you peace of mind whether you’re traveling by car or airplane to one of the world’s best courses. While there are plenty of storage options for safely traveling with your clubs, we tested the best golf travel bags based on qualities like durability, portability, and capacity. 

Our top pick for the best golf travel bag overall is the Club Glove Last Bag Large Pro golf travel bag, which thoroughly impressed us. The bag is made with durable nylon material with plenty of padding to ensure that your clubs make it to your destination safely. We were able to fit clubs, clothes, golf balls, and other accessories into the bag without any issues. If you’re looking for a hardshell case or a budget-friendly bag, we found options for a variety of categories to fit the needs of all golfers. 

Best Overall

Club glove last bag large pro.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

It’s built to last with single webbing reinforcement and burst-proof construction. 

The bag is on the heavier side.

The Club Glove Last Bag Large Pro golf travel bag is one of the best-made travel bags we've seen. Fit for a weekend golf getaway , the bag can comfortably fit a set of clubs in a standard-sized carrier, golf balls, shirts, shorts, towels, and two pairs of golf shoes between the main compartment and two exterior pockets. Despite the 45-pound weight after packing, we thought the balance was evenly distributed throughout the bag and the inline skate wheels rolled smoothly and felt sturdy due to the plastic wheelbase that is designed for high-impact travel. We noted the high-quality feel of the water-resistant nylon material that adds durability to the bag, which truly feels like it will last a lifetime.

The bag is outfitted with self-lubricating YKK zippers and ITW Nexus buckles that come from a manufacturer that makes military-grade hoops, locks, and buckles. An aluminum stiff arm to reinforce the padded protection for impact during traveling is included. We flew with this bag twice in one month of testing and it still looks like it just came out of the box. The durability, functionality, and sleek design of the Club Glove Last Bag Large Pro Golf Travel Bag make it well worth the price for golfers that are planning to travel with their clubs. 

The Details: 86 x 19 x 51 inches | 10.6 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Travel + Leisure / Kyle Tyll

Best Budget

Caddydaddy constrictor 2 travel cover.

This bag includes large pockets that can store all of your extra gear.

The sides aren't padded, so you may want to add cushioning to protect your clubs.

For frequent travelers or golfers who want a bag that can store even their bulkiest gear, this CaddyDaddy bag is the perfect option. Not only is the bag itself large enough to store all of your clubs, but we love that it also features side pockets big enough to pack your shoes and even extra clothing. Even with all of this space, the bag still doesn't feel bulky.

Made of thick rubber and nylon, we feel confident this bag won't break, tear, or otherwise fall apart making it a great value. The fabric is also thick and well-stitched. To give you added peace of mind, it comes with a one-year full replacement warranty so you can test it for yourself.

The Details: 27.5 x 18.9 x 14.5 inches | 9 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon and rubber

Most Spacious

Caddydaddy golf club travel cover with wheels.

• Design 4.5 /5
• Portability 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

The interior has tons of room for clothing or shoes in addition to golf clubs. 

It has straps that are slightly uncomfortable.

The CaddyDaddy First Class Premium Padded Golf Club Travel Cover with Wheels has tons of space for not only clubs, but golf shoes, clothing, and anything else you would ever need on a golf trip as well. Since the golf travel bag weighs just 10 pounds, golfers can pack up to 40 pounds of clubs, clothes, and other accessories before reaching the general 50-pound checked bag limit for most airlines. We loved the spacious side pockets for toiletries and golf shoes, as well as the well-placed straps that can be tucked in during traveling to prevent damage.

The weight of the golf bag is mostly evenly balanced, and the wheels and handles make it easy to carry and maneuver; however, the top handle could have been a little more comfortable. The materials and the zippers of the bag feel durable and well-made. We're confident that this bag would last a very long time and would not be something you'd have to worry about replacing anytime soon.

The Details: 51 x 13 x 15 inches | 10 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Best Softside

Sun mountain clubglider meridian travel cover.

• Capacity 4.8 /5

There are fold-out legs in the center with wheels that make rolling the bag even easier.

Travelers might want to consider a stiff arm for added protection.

For golfers looking for a simple yet functional golf travel bag, the Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover is a solid option. The design of the bag includes everything you need for hassle-free packing and travel experience, including a spacious interior for a cart or stand bag, two exterior pockets, and a pull-out leg mechanism with an additional pair of wheels besides the ones at the bottom of the bag. We found it very easy to collapse the legs in and out and the bag rolled a lot more smoothly than expected.

The high-quality, durable feel of the handles on the front, bottom, and middle of the bag equally impressed us by making it a breeze to lift and maneuver comfortably. While the nylon exterior material and padding feel sturdy and durable, the bag would likely only protect golf clubs against low-impact hits.

The Details: 51 x 15 x 14 inches | 8 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / David Engler

Most Durable

Club glove collegiate travel cover with stiff arm.

PGA Tour Superstore

• Capacity 4 /5
• Design 4.9 /5

It comes with a stiff arm to protect the heads of the clubs.

Packing the clubs was a tight fit with the length.

Traveling by air with golf clubs can be risky considering the potential for rough handling that comes with checking in luggage, but the Club Glove Last Bag Collegiate Travel Cover with Stiff Arm is made of high-quality materials and includes a stiff arm that is designed to protect gear from hard impact. The adjustable stiff arm is made of nylon plastic and lightweight aluminum, and although it doesn’t take up much room, we had to jostle the bag to get the stiff arm in with the golf clubs. With the smaller-sized interior, we appreciated the two large exterior pockets that can fit items like shoes, clothing, or sunscreen. The fully-packed bag is comfortable to carry with top, bottom, and middle straps that evenly distribute the weight of the lengthy bag and we liked how it can stand up on its own.

After flying with this Club Glove design, there weren’t any scuffs or damage to the bag. The exterior of the bag is made of water-resistant ballistic nylon fabric and the backing has single webbing reinforcement — a common fabric used for climbing, military gear, and parachutes. 

The Details: 52 x 14 x 14 inches | 11.3 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Karen Chen

Best Portability

Izzo golf high roller.

• Capacity 4.5 /5
• Design 4.8 /5
• Durability 4 /5

There are six wheels on the bottom of the bag so it can be rolled upright. 

It feels slightly top-heavy.

The Izzo High Roller golf bag impressed us with how easy it was to transport by wheeling or carrying it. The six wheels on the bottom of the bag make it possible to push or pull it while standing upright. In addition, the bag can collapse down to just 12 inches for easy storage while traveling or at home.

While the bag felt a little top-heavy while being wheeled through an airport, the handles made it easy to lift and hold onto while rolling the bag. Even if the bag were to fall over, it has a solid amount of protective padding on the inside and outside, and it’s made of tear-resistant nylon that feels sturdy and durable. The interior of the bag is large enough for golf clubs and extra shirts, and the exterior pocket is big enough for a pair of golf shoes, but it was a tighter fit than we would’ve preferred. We think the Izzo High Roller bag is perfect for golfers who could benefit from having exceptional portability and durability while traveling through airports.

Dimensions: 53 x 16 x 12 inches | Weight: 8 pounds | Wheels: Yes | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Martin Schnurr

Best Hybrid

Caddydaddy golf travel bag cover with hard case top.

• Design 4 /5
• Portability 4 /5

Only the top half is hardshell, which makes storing the bag much easier.

It feels top-heavy while carrying.

The CaddyDaddy Enforcer Golf Travel Bag Cover with Hard Case Top is designed with traveling golfers in mind, especially those who live in big cities where storage space is limited. This golf bag has a unique design where the top half is a hardshell case and the bottom half is softside. The half hardshell gives you the protection you want for your clubs and we love how the bag can compress into itself, making it more space efficient for storing when not in use.

The exterior of the bag has two pockets for storing balls or shoes and although there aren’t any pockets on the inside, there was a good amount of room left over for clothes. Though the hardshell top makes it slightly top heavy, the bag maneuvers well on the inline skate wheels at the bottom, while the top, bottom, and center handle make it easy to lift the bag into a car or onto a weight scale at the airport. 

The Details: 51 x 13 x 13 inches | 9 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Allison Widmer

Best Lightweight

Tourtrek tc pro travel cover.

Dick's Sporting Goods

• Durability 4.8 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

It feels lightweight whether it’s being pushed or pulled over a variety of surfaces.

The interior of the bag could be bigger.

The TourTrek TC Pro Travel Cover offers an abundance of protective padding and excellent portability. We think this bag is a fantastic value thanks to durable design and interior space that’s roomy enough for a set of golf clubs and two mesh pockets for accessories, as well as an exterior pocket for a pair of shoes. The cushioning is very generous and the bag feels protective and sturdy with 360-degree padding to keep your golf clubs safe whether you’re traveling by air or car. The handles are padded as well, making them comfortable to hold onto while lifting or rolling the bag. And it includes a lock and key set for an additional layer of security and peace of mind.

Weighing 6.6 pounds, this golf travel bag is lightweight and takes up less of the allotted 50-pound weight maximum that most airlines limit checked bags . While we think the interior could be a little bit bigger, this golf travel bag has high-quality features that lead us to believe it will protect golf clubs and last a long time with prolonged use, too. 

The Details: 52 x 14 x 14 inches | 6.6 pounds | Wheeled | Nylon

Travel & Leisure / Chris Abell

We had our expert product testers and golfers take 19 golf travel bags on the road to find out which ones will keep your clubs safe whether you’re flying or driving. Our testers evaluated the bags by flying, driving, walking around, and carrying the bags and rating various attributes on a scale from one to five based on capacity, design, durability, and portability. 

Our testers packed their golf clubs into the travel bags and noted how easy it was to place the clubs into them and if there was room leftover for clothes, shoes, golf balls, or other accessories between the main compartment and any pockets. While packing the bags, we checked the quality of the zippers and buckles, as well as how much padding there was and if it felt sufficient for protecting the clubs. The bags with the highest ratings for capacity were spacious with extra room leftover, and the best performing bags for design had thoughtful and intuitive features that had golfers in mind and made packing easier.

After packing up the travel bags, our traveling golfers tested portability by carrying and wheeling the bag to get a feel for how it maneuvers. The top performing bags for portability were exceptionally easy to lift and wheel with comfortable, padded straps and handles. Durability of the travel bags was tested when they were transported by airplane or car. Our five-star ratings for durability went to the travel bags that had no damage to the exterior or items on the interior after being used and gave us confidence that they would hold up well with prolonged use. The testers determined that the bags with the best value performed as or better than expected given the price, especially pricier bags that needed robust justification for the cost.

Other Golf Travel Bags We Liked

While there were plenty of well-performing golf travel bags, there were a few listed below that almost made our list of best golf travel bags but fell short during testing. 

Samsonite Golf Deluxe 3 Piece Travel Set : The bag is functional and has a sleek design, but there isn’t much padding and the zippers are plastic, which made us question the durability of the bag while flying. 

Samsonite Hard Side Golf Case : The hardshell feels durable, but there isn’t much give so it was a tight fit to get the golf clubs in, and the case is difficult to store since it can’t break down.

Amazon Basics Soft-sided Golf Travel Bag : This bag is very affordable, but has an unstructured bottom, so it can't stand up on its own.

SKB Cases ATA Deluxe Standard Hard Travel Golf Case : This case was built to withstand a lot of rough handling and includes TSA-approved locks, but can become heavy due to its thick plastic.

Bag Boy Golf T10 Hard Top Cover : For minimalist golfers, this simple bag fits just what you need, but won't give you room for extra equipment or gear.

Other Golf Gear You May Need

When you're heading out for a long day on the course, be sure you're prepared with everything you need from sunscreen to golf gloves to ensure you stay completely focused on enjoying the game.

Titleist Players Flex Men’s Golf Glove: These high-performance gloves are a classic for a reason. The cabretta leather is silky smooth, offering optimal comfort and breathability, so your hands won't sweat mid-swing. Plus, the Satin Net materials across the knuckles provide plenty of flexibility.

Peter Millar Solid Performance Jersey Polo : If you're someone who gets caught up in the game and forgets to reapply sunscreen, this golf shirt is for you. Not only is it made of moisture-wicking materials in 13 vibrant colors, but it provides UPF 50+ sun protection as well, so you can stay safe without even thinking about it.

Adidas Men's Tour360 22 Golf Shoes : These shoes provide excellent cushioning to keep you comfortable all day long, and still feature 11 metal spikes for traction and grip. They're also designed with roomy toe boxes and heel reinforcement to ensure your foot stays in place.

Wilson Sleeveless Club Dress : This stylish golf dress is made with four-way stretch fabric that is breathable and feels good even in extreme heat. It also features hidden and roomy pockets so you can store any essentials you may want ready and on-hand.

Tips for Buying a Golf Travel Bag

Consider buying a stiff arm .

Whether you’re buying a hardshell or softside golf travel bag, a stiff arm can add another layer of protection to your golf clubs. A stiff arm is usually an adjustable metal rod with a plastic disc at the the top of it that extends longer than the driver or longest golf club. The rod is placed into a golf bag to absorb the hit if the bag is tossed around and prevent the clubs from being directly impacted. 

Hardshell versus softside 

When looking for a travel golf bag, you'll want to look at durability and padding. Both hardshell and softside golf travel bags can prevent damage to your golf clubs while traveling and are a worthwhile investment for golfers that travel several times per year. A hardshell suitcase can get more scuffed than a softside golf bag, but you might not need to buy a stiff arm since a plastic case offers a more structured layer of protection. Whereas a softside bag might need extra protection like a stiff arm, it’s easier to store a soft bag than a bulky hardshell case that can’t be folded down. Some airlines will only cover damaged or lost clubs that are in a hardshell case, so be sure to check with the airline to find out the policies. 

Look at the types of wheels

From upright wheels to inline skate wheels, golf bags are created with a variety of options to make transport easier for all types of players. You should look at wheels that will smoothly and easily roll over different terrains without adding weight to the overall bag.

You’ll want to make sure your golf bag and clubs can fit in a travel bag. While you don’t want to squeeze your clubs inside, you won’t want them swimming in a roomy case either. If there is extra room in your travel bag, stuffing the sides with clothes or towels can help keep everything in place, especially if you’re flying. If your club heads can be removed and covered, that can further prevent damage to your gear. 

Every airline will be different but most follow the same policies as regular check-in luggage regarding weight and size limitations. The weight limit for check-in luggage, including golf clubs, is almost always 50 pounds or less. If your bag weighs more, there will likely be a surcharge fee. Airlines also have different restrictions and policies for packing golf shoes or balls in your bag, and coverage for lost golf bags can be dependent on the type of golf travel bag. For peace of mind, consider securing an AirTag holder with a tracker to your golf bag.

Generally, airlines do not pay travelers for damaged golf clubs. Some, like American Airlines , may compensate if the equipment traveled in a hard-sided case that is visibly damaged and was properly packed, but you should always check your specific airline's policies before flying to guarantee safe and secure travel.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at Travel + Leisure , where she writes and reviews travel products. She has been travel writing since 2018 and product testing since 2021. Anna worked with travel editors to determine the results for the best golf travel bags based on a series of tests completed by our testers while using the golf travel bags in a real-world setting. 

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The 10 Best Golf Travel Bags to Protect Your Clubs on the Road

Keep your woods, wedges, and putters secure with these durable and efficient covers. , michael loré, michael loré's most recent stories.

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While there are plenty of indoor simulators, golf-entertainment venues, and traditional on-course opportunities in my own backyard, New York City, for me to enjoy, nothing beats swinging at some of the top courses in states such as Arizona, California, Florida, and the Carolinas, where golf is more than a weekend hobby. And with hopping on a plane becoming less restrictive, I’ve been itching to get to new locations, of course with one of the best golf travel bags money can buy. 

With a suitcase packed full of polos in playful patterns in one hand and my clubs in a protective golf travel bag in the other, I’m ready to embark on my next adventure. Golf gear and sets cost a pretty penny, from four to five figures these days, so their safety when traveling is almost as important as making sure you arrive at your final destination in one piece. 

I’m definitely not alone in my wanderlust. Thankfully, there are plenty of great options to keep your clubs protected. You don’t have to worry about the state of your prized possessions sliding down the conveyor belt at baggage claim or being piled up in a corner designated for oversized luggage. Here are our recommendations for the best golf travel bags for you to utilize on your next trip.

Best Overall Golf Travel Bag

Sun mountain clubglider meridian.

Certainly living up to its name, the Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian golf travel bag will glide through the airport as you head to your flight. With four wheels, including two as part of an integrated leg set that easily retracts, you don’t have to worry about bearing the brunt of the weight of this bag and its contents on your trip. It’s easy to see why this product, available in multiple colors and featuring two external pockets, was awarded the Golf Digest Editors’ Choice award for six consecutive years.

Buy Now on PGA Tour Superstore: $340

Buy Now on Amazon: $340

Most Rugged Golf Travel Bag

Ping rolling travel cover.

Crafted with rugged, abrasion-resistant 400D nylon, the Ping Rolling Travel Cover is as durable as it is easy to open, load, and even fold down. Featuring an outside pocket and six external handles to make transporting a breeze, the only drawback is the limited space for non-essentials, so you’ll probably have to put your golf shoes and other accessories in your carry-on. With a set of four sturdy and smooth urethane wheels and interlocking skid rails, this bag rolls smoothly over curbs and through the airport, giving you one less thing to worry about as you run to your terminal.

Materials: 400D nylon. Dimension: 53 x 17 x 14.5 inches. Weight: 8.9 pounds. Wheels: 4.

Buy Now on TGW: $340

Best Everyday Golf Travel Bag

Titleist players travel cover.

Developed by one of the most trusted names in the game, the Titleist Players Travel cover is a simple black bag built for functionality. It also has plenty of space. Featuring a large main compartment for your clubs, as well as an internal pocket for your golf shoes, you’d be surprised that it weighs just 7.5 pounds. Not only are your clubs secure in this padded polyester pull bag, but internal padded straps will give your stuff added protection when traveling.

Materials: 100 percent padded polyester. Dimension: 51 x 15 x 18.5 inches. Weight: 7.5 pounds. Wheels: 2.

Buy Now on PGA Tour Superstore: $215

Best Lightweight Golf Travel Bag

Bag boy t-660 travel cover.

Simple and lightweight, the Bag Boy T-660 Travel cover features a fully wraparound zipper that makes packing and unpacking your clubs efficient. If only playing golf was this easy! An internal compression strap helps stabilize the bag during travel, an oversized garment pocket is perfect for storing shoes and accessories, and deluxe in-line skate wheels offer smooth rolling. All this, and it only weighs 5.9 pounds.

Buy Now on PGA Tour Superstore: $110

Best Multi-Use Golf Travel Bag

Stitch multiuse traveler bag (mut).

A mutt is a dog that’s a mix of multiple breeds. This perfectly describes Stitch’s Multiuse Traveler. An everyday roller duffle transforms into a golf travel bag with a single zipper, giving us the best of both worlds, not to mention something that can easily be stored. With a durable nylon padded top and extra reinforcement in high-wear areas, the MUT also comes with a torsion bar that expands and slides into your bag to help prevent damage to your club heads while traveling.

Materials: Ballistic nylon. Dimension: 60 x 12 x 12 inches. Weight: 8 pounds. Wheels: 2.

Buy Now on Stitch Golf: $498

Most Tour-Trusted Golf Travel Bag

Club glove last bag large pro.

Trusted by PGA Tour and LIV professionals—including Rory McElroy, Justin Thomas, Dustin Johnson, Rickie Fowler, and Jason Day—this travel golf bag from Club Glove is spacious and sturdy enough for these names to rely on week in and week out. Available in more than 20 colors, this single piece of burst-proof construction is made with 1000D nylon, is water resistant, and lasts five times longer than standard polyester. While it might be overkill for casual golfers, it certainly won’t need replacing anytime soon. 

Materials: 1000D nylon. Dimension: 51 x 19 x 16 inches. Weight: 10.6 pounds. Wheels: 2.

Buy Now on Club Golf: $379

Buy Now on Amazon: $509

Most Stylish Golf Travel Bag

Ogio alpha travel cover .

Materials: 1200D polyester. Dimension: 51 x 13 x 14 inches. Weight: 9.3 pounds. Wheels: 2.

Buy Now on Ogio: $280

Best Hybrid Golf Travel Bag

Caddydaddy enforcer hard top.

The CaddyDaddy Enforcer Hard top is a great hybrid golf travel bag with a soft-sided body that’s complimented with a hardshell for additional protection. A full wraparound zipper makes packing and unpacking easy, while two oversized pockets offer enough extra space for your shoes, rain jacket and other accessories you may need on your trip. When you aren’t traveling, you can tuck the soft cover body inside the hard top for easy storage. All things considered, it’s no wonder why it’s the highest-rated travel cover brand on Amazon.

Materials: 1800D all-weather fabric. Dimension: 51 x 13 x 15 inches. Weight: 9 pounds. Wheels: 2.

Buy Now on Amazon: $180

Best Convertible Golf Travel Bag

Sun mountain kube golf travel cover .

Upon first glance, the Sun Mountain Kube Golf Travel cover looks like a traditional piece of sturdy overhead luggage. But hidden within the carry-on is a golf travel bag. Made of a combination of ballistic-style nylon fabric with plastic shells at the top and bottom and dense foam padding, you can feel confident that your clubs are in safe hands. It’s available in eight stand-out colors, ensuring that you can identify your clubs in a whole pile of luggage. You also can’t go wrong with this robust case that’s easy to use in an airport and easy to store until your next trip.

Materials: Ballistic-style nylon. Dimension: 52 x 14 x 14 inches. Weight: 6.8 pounds. Wheels: 2.

Best Budget Golf Travel Bag

Macgregor vip ii premium wheeled travel cover.

If you’re looking for a quality golf travel bag that offers plenty of protection and durability without breaking the bank, the MacGregor VIP II Premium Wheeled Travel Cover can’t be beat. With plenty of storage space for your clubs, shoes, and clothes, this bag features additional padding at the top for extra protection, while an internal anti-burst strap and three heavy-duty external straps keep your most prized possessions—including up to a 49-inch driver—secure and snug.

Materials: Premium 900D oxford fabric and liner. Dimension: 54.3 x 14 x 15 inches. Weight: 6 pounds. Wheels: 2.

Buy Now on Amazon: $92

What to Consider Before Buying the Best Golf Travel Bags:

Like with anything in golf, from clubs and shoes to ball markers and rain jackets, there’s always a number of factors and key characteristics to consider before making a purchase. When trying to find the best golf travel bag, be sure to do your homework on the materials, price, weight, size, and additional features such as external pockets and number of wheels. Of course, don’t forget about personal preference.

Material: The most important factor when searching for a golf travel bag is its material. Whether you’re looking for a soft bag or a hardcover one, ensuring the interior and exterior will protect your clubs is the top priority. After all, that’s the whole point of a golf travel bag. Many options these days are made of ballistic-style nylon. Read: If it’s good enough for flak jackets, it’s good enough to protect your clubs. If you’re hesitant about softer nylon material covers, more heavy-duty hardcover or hardtop cases can withstand bumps and bruises during travel.

Weight and Size: Going hand in hand with a golf travel bag material is its weight and size. Obviously, bigger bags made of thicker materials are heavier. And the size should be substantial enough to fit all the essentials. If you need to stuff in a pair or two of shoes, additional outerwear, or other golf accessories, it’s always best to get something that’s spacious. 

Style: Once you’ve checked all of those boxes, as well as finding a product in your price range, the final thing to consider is the aesthetic. If you look good, you feel good, and hopefully play good. Which means choose the bag that suits your personal style, whether it’s a fun colorful pattern or all-business black. With more people taking to the skies to hit the links, it might behoove you to differentiate your bag, especially if you opt for the latter option, so you can easily identify it after you land. Nobody wants to waste time at baggage claim when you could be golfing.

Michael LoRé

Based in New York City, Michae LoRé has 15 years of experience as a storyteller, journalist and editor in the sports industry. As a contributor to Forbes SportsMoney, he has covered sports and events…

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Best Golf Travel Bags 2024

Heading away on a golf trip? A good travel cover is essential to keep your clubs safe

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The Quick List

Best with wheels, best padding, best for airlines, best hard case, best budget, best durability, best color choice, specifications table, how we test.

• How to choose

Best Golf Travel Bag: Quick Menu

1. The list in brief 2. Top pick 3. Best with wheels 4. Best padding 5. Best for airlines 6. Best hard case 7. Best budget 8. Best durability 9. Best color choice 10. How we test 11. How to choose 12. FAQs

A quality travel bag is a must-have for the globetrotting golfer. Your clubs are your prized possessions and taking them away with you can always be a risk, so keep that risk as low as possible with these bags. At Golf Monthly we are all regular golfers and all manage to go on golf trips often and as such we have managed to test a lot of different models out there. 

Therefore we think we are in a good position to pick out the best golf travel bag whilst also giving you advice on the several things to consider. First they have to be strong and able to deal with the trials and tribulations of travel in planes, trains and automobiles. Strong materials, padding, and excellent construction are all vital with models like the Motocaddy and Titleist leading the way here.

Additionally maneuverability is a huge benefit too because awkward travel bags make everything more difficult. Ones that move easily with strong wheels are hugely important which makes the Sun Mountain a top choice. We also think it is good for travel bags to be easy to identify because you never know what can happen in an airport in terms of people accidentally taking your luggage or clubs. As such the Ogio Alpha is one of the best out there and there are plenty of other models with distinctive designs as well.

(Finally we also recommend taking a look at some of our other guides too, such as the best golf luggage , best golf bags , and the best golf tops .) 

The MacGregor VIP II Premium features a cover that can stand up to airport abuse, it’s easy to transport, and it’s an exceptional value at its price.

Read more below

The ClubGlider Meridian is a joy to use and you will be the envy of the airport when wheeling it around whilst other golfers continually pick up their travel covers.

The Motocaddy Flightsafe travel cover is a versatile option if you are looking for a higher level of protection for your clubs and gear when travelling abroad.

Lightweight, easy to use, easy to maneuver and with plenty of storage, the Bag Boy T-660 ticks all the right boxes for the frequent golf traveller.

The Kube from Sun Mountain is an interesting and unique golf travel bag that looks great, has solid padded protection and folds away to a convenient size.

A well-thought-out and user-friendly golf travel cover, the Ram FX travel cover has plenty of space and solid protection for golf clubs and more gear.

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A very solid and reliable golf travel cover with an air of quality that allows you to fly with confidence knowing your clubs and gear are safe and secure.

Not only does the Ogio Alpha look great and stand out when travelling in several colors, but it performs well in every way you would want it to.

Best Golf Travel Bags

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MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover with our golf bag zipped up inside of it

MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The VIP II Premium travel cover offers all the durable protection and ease of use of the Deluxe model, with a few extra features for added peace of mind - like additional padding around the top of the cover increases the layer of protection for the clubs, while an internal support strap keeps clubs secure during transit. We cannot stress how much of a difference these little design details make. As some of the best golf clubs can cost a lot of money you're going to want to ensure that your bag has a lot of protection on offer to keep them safe. 

Three heavy duty external straps provide a fail safe seal on the cover and lockable dual zips add a final level of security that makes this travel cover very good value for money. There is also plenty of space to throw in the clothing and footwear that didn’t make it into your suitcase. And to give you an idea of how much space there is, there’s enough to accommodate a 49-inch driver. We should also mention the price because despite having the word Premium in the name, it definitely comes at the value end of the price spectrum which is very appealing to us. 

• Read our full MacGregor VIP II Travel Cover Review

The Sun Mountain Club Glider Meridian Travel Cover pictured at an airport

Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover

The superbly-innovative ClubGlider from Sun Mountain will be your best friend when on a golf trip, featuring an integrated leg set that retracts easily and supports all the weight of the bag for easy wheeling on all surfaces. Just like the name suggests, the four wheels simply glide around the airport and this takes away any stress from your back, arms and wrists for when maneuvering it. Additionally when we tested it we found the legs to be very sturdy, akin to many of the best Sun Mountain golf bags and the wheels roll excellently

The padding around the top of the bag is very thick and should mean that there are no accidents with your driver and fairway woods. The bag also comes with two spacious outside pockets, one on either side, that can easily house jackets, coats, jumpers or anything else you see fit to put in there for easy access. Inside the bag, there are two straps to keep your golf bag secured and there’s enough room for plenty more too. Overall we loved this model, it does cost a little bit more than some others on this list but it is well made, performs well, protects your clubs and makes travelling with clubs significantly easier which is a big plus. 

• Read our full Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Cover Review

The Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover resting on the floor of an airport departure lounge. 

Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover

A versatile travel bag that is perfect if you're looking for more protection for your golf clubs when traveling. Motocaddy are well known for producing some of the best electric golf trolleys and best golf cart bags on the market and their experience in the industry, using top class materials, makes them one of the most trusted brands around. When we tested this bag out, we were very impressed with the protection it offered our clubs. The durable and padded nylon materials made it very protective and we were enamored by the size of the bag. Motocaddy resisted the temptation to make it too big and cumbersome and it is just the right size for all your gear and a pretty chunky bag. 

You'll also be able to fit a pair of the best golf shoes in there too and some clothing or apparel. One of the highlights of this bag was how easy it was to maneuver the bag around the airport thanks to the handy six-wheel design on the base of the bag. In addition, there are both internal and external straps that do a good job of holding your clubs tightly to the bag an addition that really put our mind at ease that our clubs wouldn't move around too much in the bag. There’s no doubt you’ll find more eye-catching flight bags on the market. However, this has a simple, understated but premium look that we liked and it did an excellent job of keeping our clubs well protected. 

• Read our full Motocaddy Flightsafe Travel Cover Review

The BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover resting on grass

BagBoy T-660 Travel Cover

The new Bag Boy T-660 features a wrap-around zipper that opens up the entire front of the travel cover. From there, you simply lay your golf bag in there and, unless it's oversized or severely overstuffed, we found it to be pretty easy to get in and out of the bag. What's more, when folded up and not in use, you can easily fit it into a small space behind the seat of your rental car when you're traveling, or put it in the corner of the trunk. The T-660 also weighs less than 6 pounds, so it's easy to maneuver when not in use and you can store it on a shelf at your house or in your garage without it taking up much space. 

There were other elements we liked in testing - for example it also has reinforced corners, a skid plate, skid bars, and a large front pocket at the bottom for your shoes or outerwear. It also comes with high quality inline skate wheels for smooth rolling. Last but not least we think the price, given the solid performance, offers excellent value, and all of this makes it an ideal option for those golfers who go on trips via the airport. The lightness and strength of the bag ensures you can move it around easily, and yet won't get broken by the most heavy handed airline staff. We would say add a  colorful ribbon or something to a handle though, as it doesn't really stand out that much!

• Read our full Bag Boy T-660 Travel Cover Review

Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover and its excellent luggage case

Sun Mountain Kube Travel Cover

We are big fans of the Kube. It's an excellent innovation that not only serves its main purpose of protecting your clubs well in transit, but also allows you to collapse it down to a neat size smaller than the average cabin bag (23 x 33 x 38) when not in use via its clever foldaway system. It has a robust hard-case shell with two external and internal straps to keep everything secure on the inside. We also like the reinforced padded area at the clubhead end for added protection. 

The wheels glide well and the case is easy to move around thanks to the handle, not to mention it weighs just 3.08kg/6.6lbs as well. Right now there are several colors to choose from so if the orange and grey isn't for you, you can also get it in navy, green/black as well as a pink/graphite finish. Sun Mountain make many fantastic products, especially when it comes to bags which is why we created a best Sun Mountain golf bags guide too.

Ram Fx golf travel cover review resting on the floor of an airport.

Ram FX Golf Travel Cover

A well-thought-out and user-friendly golf travel cover, the Ram FX is made from a very sturdy ripstop fabric with extra padding across key areas where the golf clubs would be. A large main compartment houses golf clubs and features one main strap to hold your clubs down once they are packed. 

Exterior pockets include one perfectly sized for a pair of the best golf shoes  and a similarly sized pocket we found useful for packing accessories like some of the best golf socks  and belts. Additionally it may seem like a small feature, but we really liked the blue accents on the outside of the bag because it made it very easy to spot when a deluge of golf travel bags get dropped off at the oversized baggage section in the airport. Overall with a lower RRP than some others on this list, this bag easily represents one of the best-value travel bags on the market, but you aren't compromising on that much performance.

• Read our full Ram FX Golf Travel Cover Review

Titleist Players Travel Cover being wheeled into the airport

Titleist Players Travel Cover

Featuring two premium skate wheels and a large carry handle, the Titleist Players Travel Cover is very functional and a safe home for your clubs. Having tested it extensively, we were very impressed with the protection and quality it offered. Specifically we felt it dealt with the trials of travel extremely well, with the durable polyester fabric handling bumps, scrapes and such very well indeed.

The bag also comes with a handy strap on the inside that'll hold your clubs in place and it's worth pointing out  that there would be ample space inside this bag for one of the best golf cart bags . But that additional storage space was great for us, as we could place our golf shoes inside the bag along side our clubs, without worrying about our suitcase being overweight. The bag does have a premium feel, but what's more is that it also comes with two premium skate wheels which operate very nicely in and around airports to help you transport your bag without straining too much to carry it. 

That is complimented by a very comfortable handle that is easy to grasp, hold and pull. One down side is that it comes in black only, which in fairness, is fitting for such a no-nonsense, high-quality product, yet may not appeal to those players looking to make a statement when they walk into the airport with their golf clubs. 

• Read our full Titleist Players Travel Cover Review

The Ogio Alpha Travel Cover finished in blue

Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid

The Ogio Alpha travel bag is a very roomy option that can store shoes, clothes, balls and still have space left over for a souvenir or two. With all of this equipment in it, we thought it might be overly cumbersome and heavy, but it was a fantastic lightweight option when lifting it into cars, or from an airport carousel. 

That makes it a great cover for golfers looking to put as little strain on their backs as possible and it features two strong wheels that make this bag very easy to maneuver and pull behind you while you're out walking. It features a skid plate on the bottom which protects the bag from any abrasions but is also made of a durable material that is well padded around your club heads for additional protection and structure. 

The D-shaped opening makes it easy to gain access to your clubs and the bag also features some handy compression straps which keep your clubs well secured inside the cover. The last thing to note is the eye-catching colors that the Ogio Alpha comes in. We tested out the Cover's 'Warp Speed' colorway and it was very easy to spot in the airport. But you can also get it in other colors like 'Terra Texture', 'Black', and 'Mid Haze'. In fact this color choice really differentiates it from the competition but you are guaranteed not to lose it in the airport or wherever you are. 

• Read our full Ogio Alpha Travel Cover Mid Review

Our  testing for golf gear  is built upon a comprehensive process combined with the knowledge and expertise of the Golf Monthly test team. Our team usually attend product launches and then when it comes to our actual testing, we test products over a period of time that we can gauge the performance. For travel bags we do our best to use them when travelling because doing this allows to gauge performance in scenarios that you might face as well. It should also be mentioned that manufacturers cannot pay for a good review and we make our conclusions from the testing and our experiences. This is because we strive to give the best reviews possible so you can get a greater understanding of the products themselves.

How to choose a golf travel bag

As your travel bag will help to protect your golf equipment, there are a variety of factors that you need to consider when looking to pick up a travel bag that's going to keep your clubs safe. So for that reason, we've outlined some key points that you're going to want to think about when you're purchasing your next travel cover. 

1. Strength/durability/materials

Above all else, a travel bag has to protect your golf clubs properly as well as be able to put up with general wear and tear of travel. As a result, the bag should be made from strong, tear-resistant materials, and they should also have some features to protect the clubs on the inside of the bag too like compression straps on the inside and outside, along with foam padding around the top of the bag. The wheels should also be strong and move properly.

2. Maneuverability

Good models are also very easy to move around which means having wheels that slide well and can change direction properly. From a luggage perspective we would recommend four-wheels but with travel bags two-wheels work well because they can be laid on the ground easily. 

Given you will be moving the bag around, weight is very important, especially if a model only has two wheels. Here a fine balance has to be made between lightness and strength because you don't want to compromise on either. Some of the best lightweight golf bags weight literally next to nothing when stored away in a very easy to carry travel bag, so make sure to think about that when purchasing your next cover.

4. Warranty

This is definitely a factor to consider if, god forbid, your clubs and golf gear are damaged or broken. We recommend checking with retailers and manufacturers themselves how long they offer on warranties. The longer the warranty the better! 

Finally have a think about how much you want to spend on a golf travel bag. We think this is not an area to compromise on given they are designed to protect your golf clubs however we do think there are good models that don't have to cost an arm and a leg, as the above models show. For more advice on the best golf bags on the market, take a look at our guides to the best golf travel bags for under $100 , best golf pencil bags and best golf cart bags .

What should you be looking for in a travel bag?

Strength and durability is your starting point. A good travel bag has to be strong and durable to put up with the general wear and tear of travel. This means being made of strong, tear-resistant fabrics, and also having some features to protect the clubs on the inside of the bag too like compression straps on the inside and outside, along with foam padding around the top of the bag. The wheels should also be strong and move properly.

Is weight important for a travel bag?

Given you will be carrying the travel bag around, weight is very important, especially if a model only has two wheels. Here a fine balance has to be made between lightness and strength because you don't want to compromise on either.

Good models are very easy to move around which means having wheels that slide well and can change direction properly. There are several excellent models above with more than two wheels and these are usually the best in this factor, but some two-wheel options move well too, such as the Sun Mountain Kube.

Can I put other golf equipment in a travel bag?

Depending on the weight you're allotted for your transfer or flight, you can sometimes opt to put more equipment in your travel bag, as well as your clubs. You may opt to put your waterproof gear, golf shoes or even some golf clothing in your travel bag. 

What kind of bag do pro golfers use?

From our research we have found the model that Tour players often use is from Club Glove and the official Large Pro model because it is big enough to house Tour golf bags which are the biggest in the game.

Do you need a travel bag to bring golf clubs on a plane?

You don't officially need a travel bag for golf clubs on a plan but it is highly recommended to make sure they are protected and aren't broken during travel. 

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Dan has been with Golf Monthly team since 2021. He graduated with a Masters degree in International Journalism from the University of Sussex and looks after equipment reviews and buyer's guides, specializing in golf shoe, golf bag and golf cart reviews. Dan has now tested and reviewed over 30 pairs of golf shoes and is an expert in the field. A left-handed golfer, his handicap index is currently 6.5 and he plays at Fulford Heath Golf Club in the West Midlands. 

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The Best Golf Travel Bags for 2023: Reviews and Buying Guide

Brittany olizarowicz.

• Reviewed by: Tyler Moyer
• Updated on May 26, 2023

Yes, we actually test these items so we can recommend the best products—learn more about our process . This article may contain affiliate links. Read full disclosure statement .

If you have ever wondered how much difference there could be between golf travel bags, you may be in for a surprise. We recently tested some of the top travel cover options on the market. I tried everything from a cheap soft case to a premium hard case and compared the differences throughout the entire testing process. There are some features found in these golf travel covers that stand out as being necessary when you make your purchase. So whether you have a cart bag or a stand bag, come look at the best golf travel bags of 2022.

Best Golf Travel Bags of the Year

• Best Overall Golf Travel Bag–  Sun Mountain Club Glider Meridian
• Best Premium Travel Bag – Ping Rolling Travel Bag
• Best Value Golf Travel Bag – Amazon Soft Side Travel Bag
• Best Hard Cover – Samsonite Hard Side Travel Bag
• Best Accessories – Bag Boy T-750 Travel Cover 
• Most Durable – CaddyDaddy Constrictor Travel Bag
• Best Hard Cover for Small Bags – SKB ATA Deluxe Travel Case
• Best Budget Golf Travel Bag – Himal Soft Sided Golf Tavel Bag
• Best Lightweight Travel Bag – Ogio Alpha Travel Bag

The Best Golf Travel Bags at a Glance

The Sun Mountain Club Glider took the top spot this year, although there was some healthy competition and some tough discussions when deciding who takes the cake.  Between the Ping Rolling Travel bag and dare I say, the Amazon Basics bag(?!), there are a few others to consider depending on what your needs and budget are. Here’s a look at our complete list of golf travel bags and which ones stood out.

SunMountain Club Glider Meridian

For those searching for an all-around great travel bag for a golf trip, the SunMountain Club Glider Meridian is a great option to consider. With impressive foam padding, easy storage, and the ability to pack the bag while it is up off the floor, this is one of the top selling travel bags on the market. Of all the bags we tried, the maneuverability of the Club Glider Meridian was by far the best. If you want peace of mind that your air travel experience will be considerably easier to manage, the Club Glider Meridian can help do the trick.

• 360-degree maneuverability
• Retracting leg mechanism
• Internal compression strap
• Has received Golf Digest Editors’ Choice
• Very easy to pull
• Low weight considering all the features
• Retracting wheel design
• Driver easily fits
• Single zip opening is not as convenient as other travel bags
• The basic handle is not very ergonomic
• Not much exterior storage
• Size: 52” x 14” x 14”
• Weight: 11.3 Pounds
• Material: Ballistic Grade Nylon
• Wheel type: Swivel

Bottom Line : When pulling the Sun Mountain Club Glider Meridian around the airport, it will feel almost as if it is weight free. The bag is easy to walk with, it looks great, and the bottom line is that it kept my club heads protected. Many times combining this with a stiff arm makes for the perfect travel solution, very similar to the Club Glove Last Bag.

Click here to read our full review

Ping Rolling Travel Bag

The Ping Rolling Travel bag has excellent padding, is easy to fold down, and has storage on the inside and outside. The inline skate wheels help improve maneuverability. In addition, this is a higher quality golf travel bag that does not droop and sag as you are making your way around the airport. There are four total wheels so expect that you can also push this bag as it stands upright, a nice feature that many soft sided travel bags don’t have.

• 360 degree padding
• Solid plastic base
• Storage on the outside of the bag
• Large external and internal dimensions
• It will fold up compact and comes with a cover
• 6 handles for easy maneuverability and lifting
• Can stand upright on its own
• Not the cheapest option on the market
• Two of the four wheels are stationary
• Plenty of handles, but no single full carry handle
• Size: 53” L x 17” W x 14.5” D
• Weight: 9 Pounds
• Material: 400D Nylon Material
• Wheel type: 4 total, 2 stationary, 2 that swivel    

Bottom Line : Any golfer will benefit from the Ping Rolling Travel cover. I preferred this particular model to others as it was made of high-quality materials but still folded up and stored away so much easier than a hard shell travel cover. In addition, the maneuverability was just effortless, and my golf gear had no trouble fitting into the bag, with enough room for my shoes and a few golf balls.

Amazon Soft Sided Travel Bag

If you are on a budget and looking for something that has decent cushioning and enough quality to get you through a few trips a year then the Amazon Soft Sided Travel bag could be a good fit. We can tell you from the start that this soft sided travel bag won’t have the extra protection you see from other brands, but it is fair in price. In addition, the in-line skate wheels are not a thing with this bag, so get ready to embrace the shoulder strap. If you think you are going to have a hard time with maneuverability and carrying this bag on your own, it’s not the best choice.

• Soft sided design
• Folds up small
• Extra storage space inside the travel bag
• Compression straps inside
• One year warranty
• Room for golf shoes too
• Very low pricing
• Large exterior pockets
• In line skate wheels roll smooth
• Multiple zippered compartments
• The heavily padded top section
• Spinner wheels would make maneuverability easier
• Not as much protection as a hard top
• Wheel system is not as effective as others on the market
• Size: 50x13x15
• Weight: 8.65 Pounds
• Material: Nylon Fabric

Bottom Line : This is a bag for a golfer on a budget. I can’t tell you that the features are surprisingly amazing, or I had full confidence that the top of the bag would completely protect my golf clubs. If you need a golf club travel bag a few times a year, or you want to take a last-minute golf vacation and need a quick solution, this is a great option.

Samsonite Hard Sided Travel Bag

It can be hard to compare a soft sided travel bag with a hard sided because of the protection that the hard sided bag has to offer. The Samsonite is an excellent golf travel cover. Even the angriest of baggage handlers will struggle to do much damage to your golf clubs when they are inside the Samsonite. Of course, there are downsides to a hard sided travel case, they won’t fold up, and you can’t squeeze in extra golf accessories, but from a protection standpoint, the Samsonite has a lot to offer.

• 6 wheels for impressive maneuverability
• Hard sided material
• Premium internal fabric
• Long replacement warranty
• A premium liner on the inside of the travel bag
• Plenty of room
• Strong brand reputation
• Extra foam cushioning in the upper part of the bag
• Not much room once the bag is in place
• On the heavier side
• Large footprint / doesn’t break down
• Size: 54″ H x 12″ W x 16″
• Weight: 15 Pounds
• Material: Durable Plastic
• Wheel type: 6 Total Wheels

Bottom Line : The Samsonite hard covered golf travel case is one of the most durable you will find. Whether you are looking for club protection or just great luggage, this company has a strong brand reputation that is well respected in the travel world.

Bag Boy T-750 Travel Bag

The Bag Boy T 750 was my favorite travel bag for golfers who like accessories. If you are someone that also wants to have matching shoe bag and more, then the Bag Boy is a brand you will love. Unlike some other companies like Callaway and Ping, which may only make one travel bag and very few accessories, Bag Boy has a lot to offer. This bag is made with a high quality fabric, is easy to maneuver, and will help you make your way to some of the best golf courses in the world.

• 4 sided padded top
• Oversized shoe pocket
• Dual zipper
• In line skate wheels
• Upgraded handles
• Strong at the top
• Lots of padding
• Outside pocket
• Accessories available to purchase
• Heavy drag feel when pulling
• Zippers can be a little difficult to operate
• Size: 56″ L x 13.5″ W
• Weight: 8.9 Pounds
• Material: Polyester Fabric
• Wheel type: 2 In Line Skate Wheels

Bottom Line : The Bag Boy T-750 has enough storage and plenty of protection for your golf clubs. We struggled a bit with packing on this one and the overall maneuverability. This bag feels considerably heavier than other bags because of the way it maneuvers, not its total weight. However, from a club protection and value standpoint, it’s a good selection.

CaddyDaddy Golf Constrictor 2 Travel Bag

One of the things golfers will quickly notice about golf travel bags is that as the price increases, so does the quality and durability. However, you will find with the CaddyDaddy Golf Constrictor 2 that the quality is good, and the pricing stays in check. This bag is easy to load, doesn’t have a ton of extra room, but has really heavy-duty curb rails. Deterioration of this golf bag certainly happens at a slower pace.

• Rubber handles
• 1800D polyester
• In Line Skate wheels
• Will fit cart and stand bags
• Very durable for the price 
• Two outside storage pockets
• Extra compression straps for securing the golf bag
• Two skate wheel for smooth rolling
• Lockable zippers
• More dated, not as modern look
• It feels a bit droopy
• Inside storage is minimal
• Size: 51 x 13 x 15 inches
• Material: 1800D Polyester Fabric

Bottom Line : If you are like me and don’t want to purchase a new travel bag each time I go on a trip, the CaddyDaddy Constrictor 2 is the way to go. This golf travel cover does a tremendous job of protecting your gear and ensuring the material on the outside of the bag does not fray after just a few uses. Even some of the more high-end options are made with 900D polyester, so this 1800D is impressive.

SKB ATA Deluxe Travel Bag

If you are still stuck on the concept that a hard case is the only option for your golf clubs, the SKB ATA Deluxe is another model we tested this year. One thing to note about this particular travel case is that it is undoubtedly made for stand bags. You will not be able to get a cart bag or staff bag in this, so move right along if that’s your goal. Overall I was impressed with the outer material of the SKB and the smoothness in the way it rolled. For a heavy hardcover, the travel case is not hard to work with.

• TSA Approved Lock
• Hard material for improved protection of clubs
• Tight space around the clubs
• Internal compression straps
• No exterior pockets
• Front wheel can turn 360 degrees
• Sturdy design 
• It weighs about 16 pounds   
• Will accommodate a larger golf bag
• It takes some time to get used to locking and unlocking the front swivel
• The three step folding process can take a little while to perfect
• Size: 48.75 x 11.25 x 14.25
• Weight: 18 Pounds
• Material: Durable Polyethylene

Bottom Line : If you have a small golf bag but want to travel with plenty of protection, this is the bag to consider. Golfers will be impressed with the durability of this golf travel case, but it’s easy to be disappointed by the amount of space it offers.

Himal Soft Sided Travel Bag

The Himal Soft-Sided Travel Bag is the best value cheap golf travel bag you will find. It is big enough to fit a larger stand bag, incredibly lightweight, and has 2 in line skate wheels to help with maneuverability. This won’t be anything you see the tour pros using as they travel, but it’s also not poor enough quality to pass it over. If you are on a budget and want a good amount of protection, this will work.

• 100% polyester
• High quality materials
• Velcro handle
• Satisfaction Guarantee
• Lightweight
• Have to take longer clubs out of bag to fit
• Less padding than others
• Fabric not as high quality as others
• Size: 15 x 13 x 50 inches
• Weight: 5 Pounds
• Material: 600D Heavy Duty Polyester
• Wheel type: 2 In-Line Skate Wheels

Bottom Line : As you search for a new golf travel bag, the Himal will likely come up quite often. It’s a cheap golf travel bag, but it has adequate padding and protection. If you don’t want to spend much but also don’t want to miss out on travel, this could be the bag for you.

Ogio Alpha Travel Bag

The Ogio Alpha Travel Cover was my favorite choice for a lightweight golf bag. This bag has plenty of room to store all of your gear. If you are one of those players that need three pairs of shoes and twelve golf pullovers for your trip, this is the travel cover you need. In addition, with a total weight of just 6.3 pounds, expect that you will have plenty of extra weight capacity to bring all of your gear.

• Compression straps
• Easy to load
• Roomy and wide
• A lightweight feel for easy maneuverability
• Foam padding
• Storage net and console
• Folds easily 
• Plenty of accessory tabs for cart customization
• It comes with cup holder and umbrella mount 
• Several color options are available
• Priced a little higher than other carts on the market in this category 
• 21 pounds, compared to other similar carts in the 15-18 pound range
• Size: 51 x 12 x 14 inches
• Weight: 6..3 Pounds
• Material: 900D Heavy Duty Polyester

Bottom Line : These travel bags can get heavy and difficult to maneuver. However, with the Ogio Alpha, you can pack plenty of gear and still have all sorts of room for your belongings. Travel bags are cumbersome, and this one helps make things a bit easier on you as you pack up for your next trip.

Buyers Guide: What To Look For In A Golf Travel Bag

There are a few things to be aware of before you decide on the best possible travel bag for your golf game. Here are a few of the most important.

Construction 

Golf travel bags are made to either be soft-covered or hard covered. The hard covered bags are made with durable plastic, and the soft covered are more of a nylon or polyester material. The hard covered bags offer much more protection, but they are heavier and don’t store nearly as easily.

Durability 

The more expensive golf travel bags tend to have a longer warranty and last several years longer than the cheaper travel bags. Durability is mostly a concern for the golfer that travels quite a bit. If you take one or two trips per year, durability won’t be the biggest concern.

The wheels on a golf travel bag are essential to help with maneuvering. Most will have two wheels that are like in line skates; these wheels help you move through the airport in a straight line. Golf bags with four or six wheels can usually stand upright and be pushed around the airport or pulled.

Most golfers expect to put their golf club in their travel bag, but they also want their shoes and some other gear to fit. Be very careful with hard-sided golf travel bags as there is genuinely not much room for the bags to expand and accommodate more of your gear.

Storage pockets on the outside of the bag are great for last minute packing, but your gear won’t be entirely secure.

Maneuverability

Some golf travel bags are heavy, but because of their smart design and overall construction, they are considerably easier to maneuver. Having a set of two swivel type wheels will make a big difference when it comes to maneuverability as you travel. Regarding maneuverability, try to consider the fact that, at times you will need to lift the bag into your car.

Most golf travel bags range from around $40 to more than $300. The key to finding something within your budget is to consider how often you travel. If you travel quite a bit, it’s essential to spend the extra money. Not only will your clubs be better protected, but you won’t have to purchase a golf cart travel bag nearly as often.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few of the most commonly asked questions about the best golf travel bags on the market. Be smart about the bag you buy, and you may not have to buy one for a long time.

What travel bag do golf pros use?

Most golf professionals will use a hard case, and some will even use one that fits more than one golf bag. Many professionals go to a tournament with some backup clubs and gear, and they need a large case to bring all of their things.

Is a golf travel bag worth it?

A golf travel bag is your only choice if you want to travel and bring your clubs. I’ve seen a few people put a rain cover on their golf clubs and call it a day, but this is really not going to be enough to protect your equipment, and the airlines won’t help if something happens.

Do I need a travel bag for golf clubs?

If you want your golf clubs to be protected from damage than you will need a travel bag. The travel bags keep things from breaking and from wear and tear happening not just to your clubs but to your golf bag.

What are the best golf travel bags on the market?

The best golf travel bags on the market are the Ping Rolling Travel Cover and the Sun Mountain Club Glider. There are also good options from Ogio and Bag Boy for those who want to spend a little less.

What size golf travel bag should I get?

If you have a cart bag, you will need to be very careful about the dimensions of the golf bag that you choose. Cart bags don’t fit in every golf travel bag, so you may need a stand bag to help you when you travel.

Final Thoughts

We hope you now feel a bit more confident in your ability to choose the best golf travel bags. I spent a lot of time testing and traveling to determine which of these is truly the best and the Ping stands out as the best. From what we know about other Ping golf bags we have tested and worked with, this is no surprise.

Britt has close to 30 years of experience in the game of golf. She has played college golf, turned professional and worked as a Class A PGA teaching professional, and has years of writing experience. Her passion is for sharing what she knows about the game and helping others succeed. If Britt is not writing catch her on the golf course as she still loves to play golf several days a week.

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The Best Golf Bags of 2023

• BY MyGolfSpy
• Aug 8th 2023
• Read all comments

See more Golf Bags Reviews

Support our Mission. We independently test each product we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

Finding the best golf bag for your game can be a real challenge. There are a lot to choose from and no one wants to waste their money on a bag that doesn’t perform. No worries, though, in true MyGolfSpy style, we’ve put a lot of bags through the wringer to help identify a winner.

We’ve collectively spent thousands of hours using and testing golf bags. Our team of testers includes long-seasoned golfers and several beginners, too. We know that there isn’t one bag for every single golfer, especially since the way you use a golf bag may vary. The right golf bag for someone who loves to walk the course is different than the best bag for a cart-fanatic. So we’ve broken the article up into these categories:

• Best Stand Golf Bags
• Best Cart Golf Bags
• Best Sunday Golf Bags
• Best Travel Golf Bags

Buying Advice: How to Choose the Best Golf Bag

The best golf stand bags of 2023.

A golf stand bag is the typical choice for those who prefer to walk rather than ride. This is because of the built-in stand system (the legs) that allows the bag to be propped up off the ground. Most golf stand bags are lighter and easier to carry. A golf stand bag may also contain a cart strap pass-through for those days when riding sounds more appealing.

Storage, walkability, weight, extra features and dividers were the top considerations when choosing the best stand bags test .

Best Stand Bag 2023: The PING Hoofer

This bag hits all the marks. Our testers agreed that The PING Hoofer is stable, sturdy and full of useful storage. We love that each pocket has a purpose, making this bag as functional as possible.

The Ping Hoofer also offers a best-in-class stand system. Between the outstanding durability and multiple color options, it’s a bag you’ll want to keep for years.

The bottom line? Everything on this bag was made with the golfer in mind.

• Well-placed pockets
• Comfortable to carry
• Colors for every style
• Sturdy stand system
• Not the lightest stand bag 2023 

CHECK PRICE

The Best Lightweight Stand Bag: PING Hoofer Lite

The Hoofer Lite offers many of the features of the standard model, in a lighter, skinnier package. It features adequate storage, with enough meaningful weight savings to easily carry for 18 or even 36 holes.

The weight savings add up over time. A sore shoulder or extra expended energy could be the difference between shooting your personal best or having the round of your nightmares. The Hoofer Lite is just as sturdy as stable as anything else in the stand bag lineup without the extra weight.

• Lighter construction
• Easily accessible water bottle pocket
• Hidden rain hood placed for extra back support
• Smooth dividers
• Less storage to save weight

The Best Budget Stand Golf Bag: COBRA Ultralight Pro

The COBRA Ultralight Pro is what a stand bag should be. Nicely designed dividers make it easy to access your clubs and the well-designed pockets give you ample storage for all of your on-course accessories.

Retailing for about $150, it delivers a lot of quality and functionality for a very reasonable price tag. Sure you can find bags for less, but if you plan to golf regularly you may as well get something that will stand the test of time. And the COBRA Ultralight Pro most certainly will.

• Ample storage
• Solid stand system
• Comfortable carry
• Buttery smooth zippers
• Some pockets lack utility

The Best Cart Bags of 2023

A golf cart bag is generally   the biggest of the golf bags that average or recreational golfers might use. These are designed to sit on the back of golf carts (or push carts). As such, they typically lack the leg/stand system of a golf stand bag. 

Cart bags are beefier and feature more storage than most stand bags. They’re great for the golfer who loves to bring more than a few drinks and more than a few balls.

The best cart bags offer the ultimate protection for our clubs as they take their ride around the course. In addition, you will find premium features and lots of organizational upgrades.

The Best Cart Bag of 2023: PING DLX

The  PING DLX won the top spot for the best cart bag of 2023 . We found this cart bag had pretty much everything you could ever need, including a hidden shoe pocket and plenty of deep pockets. 

All of the zippers are easy to work with and the dividers (14 of them) are spacious. If you have large grips, the PING DLX will easily accommodate your clubs. The only thing to remember here is that the bag weighs eight pounds, so make sure you use a cart.

• Hidden shoe pouches
• Large, smooth divider slots
• Functional pockets for maximum storage
• Weight makes it harder to transport

The Best Cart Bag For Features: PING Pioneer

If the PING DLX is larger than you need, look at the  PING Pioneer . 

Our favorite thing about this bag is the easy-to-access magnetic rangefinder pocket but there is much more to offer. 

The dividers are great. You will find plenty of storage for your gear and a large insulated pocket with a built-in drain. With the dividers being just a little smaller and having some excess material, we noticed a pull or two when removing clubs. 

• Great dividers
• Magnetic rangefinder pocket
• Copious storage
• Large insulated pocket with built-in drain
• Excess material on dividers can cause snags

Best Premium Lightweight Cart Bag:  PING Traverse

The lightweight PING Traverse can be a good choice when you feel conflicted between choosing a cart or stand bag. The Traverse weighs 5.9 pounds. Even with this lower weight, there are still 14 dividers and 13 pockets, so we can’t call this a small golf bag. 

The  PING Traverse took third place overall  in our best stand bag testing. 

PING used the Cart Strap Pass-Through System on the Traverse, making this one a great choice for waking the golf course with a push cart. The Traverse gives you many benefits of a stand bag without making it difficult to get in and out of your car. 

• Full-length dividers
• Insulated cooler pocket with built-in drain
• Lightweight construction
• Large golf ball pocket
• Cart strap pass-through system
• Dividers are sub-par

Best Sunday Bags 

Sunday golf bags are the smallest of the bunch. These bags are a minimalist’s dream. They’re light, small, and designed to hold only a few clubs. Most who use Sunday golf bags stick to par-3 courses or executive courses where a full set isn’t a necessity.

Traditional Sunday bags are legless, “pencil-style” bags similar to the  PING Moonlite . But more and more Sunday bags like the  Sunday El Camino  are adding stand systems, pockets and extra carrying straps.

The best Sunday bags of 2023 are lighter than ever but still have room for more gear than you might imagine. COBRA, Vessel and Mizuno have what you need if you like to keep things streamlined on the course. 

The Best Sunday Golf Bag of 2023: COBRA Ultralight Sunday

The COBRA Ultralight Sunday bag is the Best Sunday Bag in 2023 . Not only is it comfortable to carry but it features the perfect amount of storage. The Ultralight Pro also takes the crown of “Best Value Sunday Golf Bag.”

The strap system is among the best there is. It provides great adjustability and an overall comfortable carrying experience. Don’t overlook the zippers, too. The buttery smooth zippers make opening each of the large pockets a breeze.

• Great pocket structure
• Fully extending stand
• Best value Sunday bag 
• Water bottle pocket is not ideal

Best Premium Sunday Bag: Vessel Sunday III DXR 

The Vessel Sunday bag is an absolute unit of a Sunday bag . This spacious, stable bag nails all of the details. Our testers really liked all of the extras packed into this bag, including the magnetic rangefinder pocket.

The high-end Vessel Sunday bag just feels premium. From the sleek, durable synthetic leather exterior to the velvet-lined club dividers, the Vessel Sunday bag is a luxury. The synthetic leather does add some weight overall, but Vessel’s comfortable straps disperse the weight evenly for an easy carrying experience.

• Comfortable straps
• Cavernous pockets
• Buttery-smooth zippers
• Heavier than some

Best Small Sunday Bag:  Mizuno BR-D2

If you’re looking for great storage , the Mizuno BR-D2 is your bag. This bag has pockets galore and a comfortable strap system for a great carry experience.

The utility pouch on the side is detachable for when you want to move a little lighter or carry a little more. Despite only having a half-size stand system, it still works great as a carry bag or range bag. It’s bigger than most pencil-style bags, but still plenty portable for an easy Sunday round or the local Par 3 course.

• Detachable side bag
• Comfortable strap system
• Good dividers
• Half-size stand can be annoying

Best Travel Bags 

Traveling with golf clubs is a risk but the best travel bags of 2023 will help you feel a little more at ease. Traveling to play golf is a great experience and the proper travel bag will help ensure there are no disasters. 

Best Golf Travel Bag 2023: Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian 

The Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian was made with the frequent traveler in mind. The ClubGlider system makes moving through the airport a breeze. No other bag in our test was easier to maneuver and move than the ClubGlider Meridian. While the bag itself isn’t nearly as compact as other bags, the bag is so easy to load, unload, and move that you forget how large it is. 

The padding near the top of the bag is among the most dense that we saw in our testing, too, which means your precious sticks will be protected no matter what.

Nothing is easier to travel with than the ClubGlider Meridian. The four-wheel ClubGlider System has been around for years, and it’s easy to see why Sun Mountain sticks with it.

• Durable wheelbase with easy maneuverability 
• Padded top for added protection 
• Angled base to pull clubs out easily 
• ClubGlider system adds a little weight 

Best Travel Bag For Usability: PING Rolling Travel Cover Golf Bag

Looking for a new golf travel bag? The PING Rolling Travel Cover should make your short list. This is one of those bags that makes traveling with your clubs a stress-free experience. Between the great protection and durability this bag offers, there are few that match its stellar performance .

Another thing we noticed during our testing is how easy it is to load and unload. The Ping Rolling Travel Cover stands on its own, making it extremely easy to load, then unload your gear.

The Ping Rolling Travel Cover is large enough to fit most cart bags, but agile enough to move through the airport with ease. The 6 handles make it easy to lift and transport, and the bottom rails make it possible to go up and down curbs with ease on your way to the car or the course.

• Stand-up design for easy loading 
• Folds up into carrying case 
• Sturdy wheelbase
• Less storage and padding than others 

Best Travel Bag For Club Protection: OGIO Alpha Max Golf Travel Cover

OGIO’s Alpha Max Golf Travel Cover provides maximum protection in a stylish package . The Alpha Max is OGIO’s flagship golf travel bag, and its stellar performance is evidence that OGIO put a lot of thought into this one.

The key feature of the Alpha Max Golf Travel Cover is the interior padding wrap. The padding can be wrapped around your clubs and is secured in place with velcro for an extra layer of protection. The peace of mind that this bag offers the frequent traveler is well worth the lofty price tag.

• Wrap-around interior pad 
• Plenty of added protection
• Not as many storage pockets 

There are hundreds of golf bags on the market in 2023 and, after a while, they may all seem to have the same features and functionality. Throughout our golf bag testing, we were continually surprised by the differences from one bag to the next. Here are a few things to look for in a golf bag for 2023. 

Storage Capacity 

If you are a golfer who has a few dozen golf balls in the bottom of the bag, along with an entire wardrobe to wear regardless of the weather conditions, look for more pockets and larger bags. 

When walking the course, weight should be your top priority when choosing a golf bag. Maintain all your energy and find a golf bag under five pounds. Stand bags and Sunday bags have the best options for lightweight technology. 

As a general rule of thumb, lighter golf bags are made of less-premium materials. Mesh, canvas and nylon are all very lightweight. Premium materials like leather and synthetic leathers often add weight but have a more premium “fit and finish”.

Vessel golf bags  and  Stitch golf bags  tend to have more of a luxury feel and weigh considerably more.

Whereas the PING Craze-E-Lite and the Sun Mountain 2.5+ are both just over three pounds. 

Style and Personalization

Most of the best golf bags on our list are available in a wide range of colors. Quick tip: Think about your playing conditions before you choose a white or light-colored bag. You may find yourself with a stained and discolored bag. 

If you want your name or initials on a bag, the front ball pocket on many models from PING and Sun Mountain are removable for embroidery.

Durability and Waterproof Construction

Fairweather and occasional golfers may not need to worry too much here but if you are die-hard, look for waterproof materials. Two good options here are COBRA UltraDry Pro and Sun Mountain H2NO Lite . 

At the very least, ensure there is a waterproof valuables pocket for your phone and other personal belongings. 

Technology Integration

Some golf bags come equipped with a GPS holder or even a charging port for a USB device. 

Club Dividers

There are two things you need to know about club dividers. The first is the number of dividers. 

The second is the length of the dividers. 

The more dividers a golf bag has, the better your clubs will stay separated. Dividers add a little weight to a bag so it’s normal for a stand bag to have fewer dividers than a cart bag. 

Additionally, dividers can run the full length of the bag (down to your grip) or they can just be a top divider. Full-length dividers do a better job of protecting both the shaft and grip of your club. 

One thing to be aware is if you have an oversized or jumbo golf grip , you may struggle with a full-length 14- or 15-club divider. Check dimensions carefully before ordering. 

Cart Bag Versus Stand Bag

One of the most difficult decisions is whether to go with a cart or stand bag. Here are some basic tips to get you through: 

• Choose a cart bag if you play most of your rounds using a motorized golf cart or push cart . 
• If you own your golf cart, choose a cart bag to protect clubs when you travel from home to course.
• If you walk the course or simply prefer to travel light, a stand bag is best.
• Push carts do well with both stand and cart bag but look for an integrated cart strap system.

Stand Bag Versus Sunday Bag 

Not all Sunday bags will hold 14 clubs. If you are a new player looking for an affordable option to store a few clubs, the Sunday bag is a great choice. The stand bag is a better fit for golfers with a full set of gear but a Sunday bag is also  a nice addition for a few holes in the afternoon or a trip to the driving range. 

Frequently Asked Questions

A Sunday bag is a golf carry bag smaller than a traditional stand or cart bag. The Sunday bag was created with the concept of heading out for a few holes of golf on a Sunday afternoon with just the essentials.

The Rules of Golf state that you can have a maximum of 14 clubs in play. 

A golf staff bag is larger than a standard cart bag and many professional golfers use it. The staff bags do a great job of displaying the logo or sponsors of a professional. Staff bags are often used in golf shops to display clubs.They are not the most user-friendly for an amateur player on a normal Saturday morning round. 

There are different styles of Sunday golf bags. Most will fit around eight clubs with ease. Some can fit all 14 but it is a tight fit. 

The USGA states that you can only have 14 golf clubs in play at any given time. If you have 15 clubs in your bag, you must declare one out of play before the start of the round and that club must remain out of play for the entire round. 

Load your golf clubs with the tallest clubs in the back of the bag and the wedges and short irons in the front. You don’t want the edges of the wedges and irons cutting into the longer graphite shafts of your fairway woods and driver.

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• about the author
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Our mission is #ConsumerFirst. We are here to help educate and empower golfers. We want you to get the most out of your money, time and performance. That means providing you with equipment reviews you can trust, as well as honest reporting on the latest issues affecting the game today. #PowerToThePlayer

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4 months ago

What’s your thoughts on the bags that lock the clubs into place?

7 months ago

Have a SM C-130 that is several years old and love it. I play 5 days a week and take my clubs home daily. One pocket zipper came off track years after purchase but that was the only issue. Waiting until the new ones come out so I can get this year’s model at a discount. Might be a little heavier than others but club separations are great and slot for putter will easily handle oversized grip. Pocket for valuables etc. Used to carry and Ping Hoofer can’t be beat.

Thanks for the great ‘bag roundup’ I’ve always had a Titleist walking bag, but I’m really leaning at getting a new Ping Hoofer Lite. I just wonder if it will sit well in a cart for the few times I ride? Anyway great post.

8 months ago

I’m looking hard at the new GRIT Tower cart bag. Just showed up, built in Canada- total rethinking of the storage features on golf bags.

Curious if you all have a ranking for best hybrid bag. I have a cart bag now for my Clic Gear push cart but would like to get something with a stand for range and practice days.

They dont. Its been requested numerous times. I am in the same martket. My top considerations were the SM C130s, titleist hybrid, and vessel players III/IV. I went with the SM cause i got a good deal on it <$200

For those of you traveling and looking at protection for your clubs, one of the best things you can do is buy a $5 orange Homer bucket from Home Depot and just fit that over the top of your golf bag inside the travel bag. It should fit over most golf bags and inside most travel bags.

Buddy LaRosa

Great idea!! And thank you for the tip, I’m taking a trip soon and was pondering ways to protect the clubs.

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Safely Stowed: 7 Golf Travel Bags For Flying In 2023

With interstate and international travel fast returning after the pandemic, many golfers are booking flights and jumping on planes for their next golfing getaway.

Because of this, many players are seeking out golf travel bags to protect their clubs while they fly.

If you’ve ‘landed’ (excuse the pun) on this article, then it’s likely you’re looking for some advice on which are the best golf travel bags to buy.

As a quick summary, the best golf travel bags I recommend are as follows:

• CaddyDaddy Constrictor 2 Golf Travel Bag (Best overall option)
• Amazon Basics Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag (Best budget option)
• SKB Deluxe Golf Travel Bag (Best top range option)

I’ve included seven bags in total in my list (which you can read by scrolling further down the page), however these three are certainly the standouts.

Keep reading, as in this article I’ll also answer some of the burning questions you will likely have about golf travel bags, including how much they cost and whether or not they are worth buying.

Table of contents

What is a golf travel bag?

A golf travel bag is a protective casing that shields your golf clubs from damage during travel and is mainly used on flights. The bags are usually made from either soft or hard plastic or nylon. Golfers use travel bags to prevent damage to their clubs when in transit.

If anyone has seen a baggage handler in action at the airport, they would know they don’t often take a lot of care with luggage – it is for this reason that a golf travel bag can be invaluable for keeping your clubs safe.

The last thing you want is to arrive at your destination, only for your clubs to be chipped, dented or even worse, completely broken .

Golf travel bags are designed with a soft interior that will keep your clubs secure and stop them clattering together during your flight (or bus/car ride), while the outer layer offers enough padding to prevent any external damage.

Are golf travel bags expensive?

Golf travel bags are relatively inexpensive. A standard, soft case travel bag will cost around $150 AUD ($95 USD) while a travel bag with a hard plastic exterior can cost anywhere up to $450 AUD ($280 USD).

The more expensive cases with harder outer plastic usually cost more than the soft cases as they provide a greater level of protection for your golf clubs.

There are, however, some hybrid cases which blend a soft outer shell with a hard plastic top (covering the heads of the golf clubs) – these bags provide excellent protection at a price range somewhere in between the low and high ends.

Are golf travel bags worth it?

Yes, golf travel bags are definitely worth it if you are planning interstate or international golf trips. Using a travel bag will protect your golf clubs from damage during transit, which could potentially save you from needing expensive repairs later on.

A lot of people look at travel bags and think ‘I can probably get away without needing to use one’.

I did that on my first interstate golf trip – instead of using a travel bag, I crammed a few towels in between the heads of my golf clubs, strapped on the rain hood that came with the bag and then duct taped it shut.

While it did the job well enough, it was a pretty finnicky, annoying process and didn’t provide my clubs with a very good level of protection during the flight.

I was fortunate that I avoided any damage ; but I didn’t want to take that chance again and before my next trip, I went out and bought a soft case bag.

Since then, I’ve used it a few times and it has made the process so much easier – all the while keeping my clubs way safer than any makeshift method ever could.

I would much rather pay $150 for a quality travel bag than needing to replace a damaged driver for $300 or more.

What kind of golf travel bag is the best?

The best golf travel bag is one that protects your clubs, without breaking your budget. Hard-shell travel bags offer the greatest protection for your clubs but come with the highest price tag, while soft-padded travel bags offer a lesser level of protection but at a cheaper price.

Personally, I think a mixture of the two (a hard-cover top mixed with a soft-padded body) offers a good balance between adequate protection and cost.

Below, I’ve compiled a list of seven golf travel bags ranging from low, mid and high levels of protection to meet varying budgets, to help you decide which one is best for you.

Amazon Basics Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag

If you want decent enough protection for your clubs at a bargain basement price, the Amazon Basics Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag will do the job perfectly.

Made from a durable nylon fabric with reinforced stress points, this bag will stand sturdily on its own while also providing enough thickness and comfort to keep your clubs safe.

A compression strap also wraps snuggly around the bag to prevent your clubheads rattling together, while smooth-rolling, inline wheels will let you easily pull your bag through an airport or bus terminal.

With dimensions of 13 x 15 x 50 inches, the Amazon Basics bag is plenty big enough to house golf bags of all sizes.

Athletico Padded Golf Travel Bag

The Athletico Padded Golf Travel Bag is another great budget option that protects your clubs by way of thick, soft padding.

While the Athletico model has a few less storage pockets than the Amazon Basics bag, much of the other features are the same – however, it doesn’t come with wheels, which may be a deal-breaker for many people as it makes transportation more difficult.

The best thing about the Athletico bag, aside from its budget price, is that it’s slightly larger than the Amazon model (12 x 14 x 53 inches) which may accommodate bags on the bigger end of the scale, such as Tour bags .

Himal Outdoors Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag

The Himal Outdoors Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag is a step up in both quality and price, with one particular feature that distinguishes it from other options.

This polyester fabric bag comes with a unique support bar than can be placed inside the case to reduce impact force from the outside, which provides an added layer of protection for your clubs.

It is easy to carry thanks to two Velcro handles, while a set of high-quality wheels means you can pull the bag behind you with no problem.

The Himal Outdoors bag is slightly smaller than others – with dimensions of 13.4 x 13.7 x 48.8 inches – however is a perfectly good option if you’re looking for something with a little extra support and fortification for your clubs.

CaddyDaddy Constrictor 2 Padded Golf Travel Bag

As the first option on the list from a dedicated golf brand, the CaddyDaddy Constrictor 2 Padded Golf Travel Bag is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a top-quality bag at a mid-range price point.

The CaddyDaddy outshines the budget options on this list in almost every way.

It has tonnes of storage via external pockets, extra straps for added security, a ‘north pole’ support bar to reduce outside crushing forces, and inline wheels for ease of transport.

The padding is much thicker than cheaper travel bags – such as the Amazon Basics or Athletico Padded models – giving you greater peace of mind that your clubs will arrive at their destination safe and sound.

Personally, this is my favourite option based on features and cost.

CaddyDaddy Enforcer Hard Case Golf Travel Bag

If you like the CaddyDaddy brand but want some next-level protection when transporting your clubs, then you should definitely consider the CaddyDaddy Enforcer Hard Case Golf Travel Bag .

This is a hybrid model blending an ABS molded hard top with a thick, padded nylon body – and the benefits of this are two-fold.

The plastic cover shields your clubs better from external blows, while the padded core (rather than a fully plastic casing) helps keep the price down.

The only thing lacking is possibly some storage space, as there aren’t many pouches to stash golf shoes or clothes.

But with wheels for easy transport, this is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a travel bag that reduces force impact to your clubs without breaking your budget.

Bag Boy T10 Hard Top Golf Travel Bag

A great alternative to the CaddyDaddy Enforcer is the BagBoy T10 Hard Top Golf Travel Bag .

Personally, I’m a huge fan of Bag Boy as a brand (I use one of their push carts whenever I play) and can vouch for their quality manufacturing.

Like the CaddyDaddy, the T10 is a hybrid design with a hard top mixed with a soft, padded body.

Where the Bag Boy slightly outperforms other rivals in this price range is the extra storage – with two generous side pockets giving you plenty of added space to stash balls, shoes , shirts or other accessories.

However, the soft casing is slightly thinner than the CaddyDaddy, which is something to take into consideration.

If I had to choose, I’m leaning with the CaddyDaddy – however, it really is a toss of the coin and if you love the Bag Boy brand, this is still a great option when it comes to a mid-priced travel bag.

SKB Deluxe Golf Travel Bag

If you want the ultimate level of protection for your golf clubs when travelling, then the SKB Deluxe Golf Travel Bag is ideal.

This really is the ‘Fort Knox’ of travel bags, with the thick hard plastic polyethylene outer shell ensuring the chances of your clubs sustaining any damage in transit are virtually zero.

The bag comes with a TSA locking system for ease of airline travel, while industrial strength latches prevent the case from popping open mid-trip.

The SKB Deluxe is also large enough to accommodate bags of all sizes – from carry bags to cart bags .

Of course, this added protection comes at a cost, with the price tag noticeably higher than all the other options on this list.

But if safety and peace of mind are most important to you, then the SKB Deluxe is absolutely worth the added cost.

Do airlines charge extra for golf bags?

Some airlines charge extra for golf bags, while some don’t. American Airlines and Jetstar are two popular carriers that charge up to $30 USD for oversized baggage, such as golf clubs. However, many other airlines do not charge extra fees – such as United, Qantas, Canadian and Singapore airlines.

I’ve written a detailed article outlining all the fees associated with some of the world’s most used carriers, which will give you all the information you need when it comes travelling on a plane with a golf bag.

But, essentially, the answer is: it will depend entirely on each individual airline.

Are golf bags considered oversized luggage?

Yes, in most cases golf bags are considered to be oversized luggage. Because of this, some airlines – especially budget airlines – will charge you extra for flying with golf clubs. Golf bags are typically longer than a standard suitcase, which is why they are usually classed as ‘oversized’.

Can you take golf clubs in an Uber?

Yes, you can take your golf clubs in an Uber. If you are travelling alone, you should have no problem fitting your golf bag into the boot/trunk of a standard Uber X. If you are travelling with friends, you may need to upgrade to an Uber XL in order to fit more than one golf bag in.

I’ve written everything you need to know about travelling in an Uber with a golf bag , including how much boot/trunk space you need.

But in summary, yes you can take golf clubs in an Uber.

Be mindful, however, that if you are unsure about whether or not you will be able to fit your clubs in – or if you may need to lay them along the back seat – you can always ring your driver before they pick you up to double check.

Final message

Golf travel bags are a must-have item if you’re serious about protecting your clubs during a flight or bus trip, which you’ll often take when on an interstate or international golf trip.

While travel bags may set you back anywhere from $95-$280 USD (with budget options usually coming in cheaper than that), it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind knowing that your clubs will remain safe in transit.

It’s also a lot cheaper than having to replace any broken clubs if you choose to run the risk of transporting your clubs without the added protection a travel bag offers.

To me, the decision is an easy one!

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Best golf bags for 2023, share this article.

Golf bags – you can’t play with them and you certainly cannot play without them.

The most obvious golf accessory is a choice that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Whether strapped to your back or the back of your golf cart, choosing a golf bag is as important as choosing a proper golf ball.

Luckily for you,  Golfweek has made the search for the perfect golf bag that much easier.

We’ve put the best cart and stand bags all in one place to help you make the most informed decision possible. But first, one tip: there is no golden rule when it comes to golf bags.

If you enjoy both walking and taking a cart, a stand bag is going to benefit you the most. If you’re an avid walker (with a push cart) but are looking for more storage, a cart bag may be your choice.

Titleist Cart Bag - Cart 15 Bag

Titleist Cart Bag – Cart 15 Bag (PGA TOUR Superstore)

Price : $299.99

Why we love it : 14 dividers not enough? Check out the premiere cart bag Titleist has to offer. An ample amount of storage ensures you’ll have everything you’ll need throughout a round and more.

Titleist Stand Bag - Hybrid 14 Stand Bag

Titleist Stand Bag – Hybrid 14 Stand Bag (PGA TOUR Superstore)

Price : $254.99

Why we love it : If you’re Titleist through to the bag, this may be a pick for you. A 14-way divider ensures a clutter free bag while keeping things nice and organized.

Stitch Cart Bag - SL Cart Tour Edition

SL cart bag Tour Edition (Stitch)

Price : $628

Why we love it : Going for a tour look? This Stitch bag looks like what you’d see inside the ropes week in and week out on the PGA Tour.

Stitch Stand Bag - MIY SL1 Golf Bag Bundle

Stitch Stand Bag – MIY SL1 Golf Bag Bundle (Stitch Golf)

Price : $398

Why we love it : Customize your bag with more than just your name. Stitch offers a wide variety of colors to make sure your bag stands out from the crowd.

Ping Cart Bag - DLX Cart Bag

Ping Cart Bag – DLX Cart Bag (PGA TOUR Superstore)

Price : $334.99

Why we love it : This cart bag is probably as close as you can get to a Tour like bag without the Tour bag price. A 15-way divider up top and 32 liters of storage will keep you prepared for whatever golf throws your way.

Ping Stand Bag - Hoofer Lite Stand Bag

Ping Stand Bag – Hoofer Lite Stand Bag (PGA TOUR Superstore)

Price : $244.99

Why we love it : One of the more popular stand bags in golf, the Hoofer is a classic for a reason. The Lite version shown here weighs in at five pounds and has a crazy amount of storage for a stand bag. If you’re an avid walker, the standard is set here.

Callaway Cart Bag - Chev 14 Cart Bag

Callaway Cart Bag – Chev 14 Cart Bag (PGA TOUR Superstore)

Price : $209.99

Why we love it : Cart bags are meant to maximize storage. Callaway knocks it out of the park with their Chev 14 Cart Bag.

Callaway Stand Bag - Fairway 14 2022 Stand Bag

Callaway Stand Bag – Fairway 14 2022 Stand Bag (PGA TOUR Superstore)

Price : $279.99

Why we love it : Callaway’s premiere stand bag, the Fairway 14 is a go-to for many walkers who value organization. This edition has new handles which make it push-cart friendly.

Sun Mountain Cart Bag - Maverick 2023 Cart Bag

Sun Mountain Cart Bag – Maverick 2023 Cart Bag (PGA TOUR Superstore)

Price : $249.99

Why we love it : This Sun Mountain cart bag is big on storage while light in weight. With nine pockets throughout, Sun Mountain utilizes light and durable materials to keep the bag under six pounds.

Sun Mountain Stand Bag - 4.5 LS 14-Way Stand Bag 2023

Sun Mountain Stand Bag – 4.5 LS 14-Way Stand Bag 2023 (PGA TOUR Superstore)

Price : $269.99

Why we love it : Sun Mountain’s 4.5 LS stand bag is a fantastic option for the hybrid golfer. Light enough to carry for 36 holes while also functional enough to stow plenty of accessories and layers of gear if you’re opting for a cart.

TaylorMade Cart Bag - Supreme Cart Bag

TaylorMade Cart Bag – Supreme Cart Bag (PGA TOUR Superstore)

Why we love it : This 14-way divider comes with a dedicated putter well to keep your flat stick in a good mood. This bag also features 11 pockets and a quick-access magnetic pocket for items you always find yourself grabbing throughout a round.

TaylorMade Stand Bag - Flextech Crossover

TaylorMade Stand Bag – Flextech Crossover (PGA TOUR Superstore)

Why we love it : The Flextech Crossover is another great option for hybrid golfers. Whether walking or riding, this TaylorMade bag has exactly what you need.

Nike Cart Bag - Performance Golf Bag

Nike Cart Bag – Performance Golf Bag (GlobalGolf)

Price : $270

Why we love it : Do you love the Sunday Red look? Check out this Nike Cart Bag that comes in a handful of cool colorways.

Nike Stand Bag - Air Hybrid II Golf Bag

Nike Stand Bag – Air Hybrid II Golf Bag (GlobalGolf)

Why we love it : This Nike stand bag comes in at six pounds and features a comfortable strap system similar to their patented AirMax shoes. Offering plenty of storage, this bag is another great option for hybrid golfers.

Weather Resistant Cart Bag - Sun Mountain H2NO Lite 2023 Cart Bag

Weather Resistant Cart Bag – Sun Mountain H2NO Lite 2023 Cart Bag (PGA TOUR Superstore)

Price : $359.99

Why we love it : If you’re not one to shy away from the elements, this bag may be perfect for you. This Sun Mountain bag is weather resistant to keep your clubs as dry as possible when mother nature decides to rain on your parade.

Weather Resistant Stand Bag - Titleist Players 4 StaDry Bag

Weather Resistant Stand Bag – Titleist Players 4 StaDry Bag (PGA TOUR Superstore)

Price : $294.99

Why we love it : If you’re a walker who isn’t afraid of a little precipitation, we have you covered. This Titleist bag is a popular option on developmental and mini tours due to its versatility and ability to take a beating.

Team Effort - NCAA Golf Bags

Team Effort – Bucket III Cart Bag (GlobalGolf)

Price : $299.99 for Stand Bag & $324.99 for Cart Bag

Why we love it : Do you bleed school colors? Check out Team Effort’s selection of both stand and cart bags so you can rep your alma mater on the course.

Wilson - NFL Golf Bags

NFL Stand Bag (Wilson)

Price : $219.99 for Stand Bag & $249.99 for Cart Bag

Why we love them : The NFL never sleeps. Rep your squad throughout the year. Who knows, it may be the missing piece to their Lombardi Trophy quest.

Club Glove - Travel Golf Bags

Collegiate Travel Golf Bag (Club Glove)

Price : $429 for XL Pro & $299.95 for Collegiate

Why we love them : If you’re flying to a golf destination, you need to protect your clubs! We’ve all seen the horror stories of airlines abusing our precious cargo. Give your clubs a fighting chance with a Club Glove.

See more equipment: Best drivers for 2024 | Best irons for 2024 | Best putters for 2024 | Best golf balls for 2024

We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. Golfweek operates independently, though, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.

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Golf Club Protection: The Best Golf Travel Bags

Just imagine that you booked your ultimate golf bucket list trip. Maybe you chose somewhere iconice like Pebble Beach, St. Andrews, Bandon Dunes, TPC Sawgrass or Pinehurst.

You’re probably excited beyond belief. A vacation with your friends or family playing the course(s) you’ve always dreamt about playing.

That is, until you start thinking about the travel aspect of it. More specifically, how to travel with your precious golf clubs and make sure they don’t get damaged.

Because let’s face it, if you’re going to play a once in a lifetime course you need to play with your own clubs. This isn’t a time to try out some generic rental set when you’re forking out big bucks for a once in a lifetime round.

Luckily, traveling with golf clubs doesn’t have to be as bad as it seems. While we’ve talked about traveling with your clubs, I want to dive into the best golf travel bags on the market.

There are so many choices out there that if you haven’t bought one yet, I want to make sure you get the right fit for your game. I’m confident after reading this post, you will find the one that will help get your clubs to your dream destination or just safely to your next golf adventure.

Our Picks for Best Golf Travel Bag

• Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Golf Travel Bag – Best Soft Travel Bag for Most Golfers
• SKB Deluxe ATA Golf Travel Bag – Best Golf Travel Bag (Hard Case & Best Premium)
• Caddy Daddy First Class Travel Bag – Best Value Golf Travel Bag

What to Look for in a Golf Travel Bag

If you’re endlessly researching the best golf travel bag, you’ll quickly learn there are a ton of choices out there. From buying locally at a sporting goods store, on Amazon or somewhere else, there is no shortage of selection for golfers.

Key Takeaways

• You need some sort of golf travel case for your golf clubs, shoes, and other accessories on an airline. Do not attempt to check your clubs without a case! 
• There are two types of golf travel bags – hard shells and soft shells. 
• The hard shell cases are more protective but also weigh more which makes them harder to roll. Plus they’re bigger and not as easy to store in your car or garage.
• Soft shell cases are cheaper and easier to travel with. They also offer several versions with a hard shell top, more storage, and a kickstand. 

Here’s what you should compare when picking out your next golf travel bag.

Hard Case vs. Soft Case (Protection)

The first thing you’ll notice about the wide selection of golf bags is the case structure itself. Some have a hard exterior (hard cases) while others have a soft case like a normal piece of luggage. Both have their pros and cons depending on your golf travel needs.

The main pros of soft cases are that they are usually cheaper and easier to transport, especially if you have a smaller vehicle. Plus, they’re a lot easier to store in your garage when you’re not traveling. Hard cases on the other are usually much bigger and heavier but also provide more protection for your golf clubs.

I’ll review the best golf travel bags for both soft and hard shells, so this is more of a personal preference than anything else. Also, some companies make a shell top only that goes on your bag but we don’t recommend this option as it won’t protect your gear like a normal golf travel bag.

Durability & Padding

The next most important factor for picking out your golf travel bag is ensuring it’s durable and has plenty of padding inside to protect your sticks. Some have an internal compression strap system while others don’t or have as much padding on the inside.

Whether you choose a hard shell or a soft shell case, I always recommend a Bag Boy backbone travel cover support system too. This makes it less likely for your stuff to get damaged when handled at airports and thrown into a rental car or shuttle. Make sure you invest in a Bag Boy Backbone to ensure your clubs are protected and not crushed.

The last thing you want to have to deal with when you’re out of town is a snapped driver shaft. Keep your clubs safe and pack accordingly, especially for air travel.

Wheel System

The wheel system is another factor that will help you move around in crowded spaces. Some golf travel bags have spinner wheels while most only have two wheels (more like in line skate wheels) which make it a lot harder to maneuever. When researching your golf travel bag, make sure you consider the wheel system that works best for you.

Another big factor is the price of the bag. You’ll see these golf bags range from pretty inexpensive all the way up to the $500+ range depending on the model and brand you choose. 

Like any golf gadget, price isn’t everything thought. It’s important to find a bag that fits your budget but will also last a long time so you don’t have to revisit this a year down the line. 

Remember, this travel bag will protect the clubs that you probably spent thousands of dollars on. Don’t get cheap now and suffer when something happens to them in transit.

Depending on how frequently you travel, it’s important to get one that is relatively easy to transport back and forth. If you’re older or have some back issues, I recommend getting a lighter, soft shell bag to ensure it’s easy to get them in and out of the trunk. No need to suffer a pointless injury on the way to your golf vacation.

Plus, weight is a big factor for how much it costs to shipping your golf gear as well. Depending on the airline, if you go over a certain limit you’ll have to pay even more money each way. 

Also, it’s important to note unlike bags, these do not come with a shoulder strap and you’ll always have to push or pull it.

External Pockets 

Another important factor is the amount of storage within the bag itself.

This is one area where the soft cases usually win as they have 2-3 extra pockets outside the bag to house golf accessories (like balls, golf shoes) and other equipment. Extra storage is especially helpful if you’re playing somewhere that you might have to battle the conditions (like Bandon Dunes) and need to bring cold weather gear too. 

It’s important to remember to always check airline rules when it comes to the total weight for your golf bag. Usually, if it’s over 40 or 50 pounds, you’ll have to pay an extra $25 to $50 each way (which is a few sleeves of Pro V1s).

The last factor when selecting from our list of the best golf travel bags is the warranty.

You want to make sure the company behind the bag offers a warranty in case something happens (which the odds are a lot higher with air travel). This is more important with soft shell cases as they can get holes and tears while hard-shell bags seem to last a lot longer.

When researching these travel bags, I was surprised that some manufacturers have a warranty that covers incidents related to air travel!

Golf Travel Bag Reviews

Now that you know what you’re looking for before you buy, here are the best golf travel bags for airlines. You really can’t go wrong with any of these products!

1. Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Golf Travel Bag

The Sun Mountain ClubGlider Tour Series golf travel bag is for the serious golfer who doesn’t want to risk anything while traveling. If you’re a very serious player who’s invested a lot (i.e. PXG golf clubs) this is a great bag for you. The overall look plus durability, makes this one of the best golf travel bags for so many reasons. 

• Internal cinch strapping system to keep your bag secure.
• Lightweight – 11.8 pound design. Sort of a hybrid between soft and hard case.
• 4-wheel design unlike most golf travel bags which makes it easy to move around. The pivoting caster wheelers make it much easier to maneuver in tight spaces. 
• It has some of the best protection available and has some of the highest reviews on the internet. 
• Not only is durable but it’s aesthetically one of the best cases to look at with five color choices. 
• No external pockets for additional storage making it tough if you bring extra golf accessories.
• The biggest con for most golfers is the higher price tag as it’s one of the most expensive bags on the market but the quality of this bag is top-notch.

Overall Review

The 4-wheels make transporting it incredibly easy and the extra storage makes it easy to transport all your gear. Some reviews said the release mechanism is a bit stiff when opening and close and the main zipper isn’t that accessible. All in all, the internet didn’t have too many negatives for this epic golf bag.

All color options are great looking and easy on the eyes but with dark colors will withstand the wear and tear of travel. If you can afford it and are a serious jet-setter, this bag is well worth the price.

Go here to read our hands-on Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian review .

2. SKB Deluxe ATA Case Golf Travel Bag

The SKB Deluxe ATA golf travel bag looks more like a weapon to take to war more than one to transport your golf clubs. While its design is a bit over the top, it provides the ultimate protection for your clubs. If you’re someone who has aftermarket shafts or expensive clubs like PXG, this case will help you protect your investment more than most. 

• Hard shell case for maximum protection.
• Comes with a TSA locking system for safe travel and allows them to check it easily.
• Durability, durability, durability. This hard shell bag seems unbreakable. It’s made of polyethylene which also keeps moisture and dirt out. 
• The makers of this product are so confident about this case, they offer a $1500 club coverage and a million-mile guarantee.
• High price tag. It’s one of the higher investments on our list but provides incredible durability for your gear. 
• Weight – these golf travel bags weigh in just under 18 pounds before adding clubs. And as the average of clubs and gear weighs another 25-35 pounds, this makes it easy to go over the 40-50 airline weight limit pretty easily. 

The SKB golf travel bag is made of durability and works for both stand bags and cart bags but a little tight with bigger cart bags. They also have a TS lock which makes it more likely to be searched so don’t put too much else outside your bag itself. 

Overall, this is the best hard case on the market with the only con being the weight. Since it’s so heavy, make sure to pack accordingly and weigh it before you show up to the baggage counter. 

You can read our full hands on review of the SKB Deluxe ATA Travel case here .

3. Caddy Daddy First Class Premium

If you don’t need a hard case, the Caddy Daddy First Class Premium is another great choice. It’s lightweight but provides plenty of protection with 1000D Ballistic Nylon construction. 

Inside the case they have 2-layer foam padding to protect your clubs and hopefully avoid a lazy TSA agent. Like the other Caddy Daddy, this travel case has two generous sized external pockets with exterior zipper access. Plus, you can even lock these as well to make sure nothing falls out and keep your gear safe. 

But the main selling point for this travel case is the premium oversized wheels. While there are only two wheels in this case, I’m confident they won’t break anytime soon. The “all season” wheels are larger than most bags and very heavy duty. 

Unlike other bags, this one even has a 2-year warranty as well. Paired with the self-standing wheelbase, internal/external straps, this is a great option for golfers who travel frequently. At only 10 pounds, it has everything you need to protect your sticks. 

• Ultra-durable nylon construction.
• Two year full replacement warranty.
• Large side pockets for extra storage.
• All season, heavy-duty wheels are very sturdy. 
• No hard shell feature. 
• Only one color option.

You can pick up your Caddy Daddy First Class Premium travel bag here or read our full hands on review of the Caddy Daddy First Class premium .

4. CaddyDaddy Golf Constrictor 2 Travel Cover Bag

The CaddyDaddy Golf Constrictor 2 travel bag is a great bag that I’ve personally used for several years now. I’ve got hands-on experience with this one and they’ve helped get my clubs all over the country including a trip to Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hills. Needless to say, it’s very durable.

Here’s why it’s at the top of our list. 

• Accommodates cart bags and stand bags easily. 
• New internal compression straps to keep your bag secure.
• It’s super easy to fold up and put in a storage cabinet in the garage. 
• Molded luggage tag and business card window to find your bag quickly off the carousel.
• With 3 outside pockets, there is plenty of room to store clubs, shoes, rain gear and more. 
• Another huge pro is the 9 pound design. I’ve never had a problem loading it up with gear and ever going over 37 pounds of total weight. 
• The major downside is the lack of reinforcement around the clubs themselves. There’s very little padding next to the heads themselves so make sure to pack them with extra towels for protection. 

If you’re only traveling a few times a year and want a budget-friendly bag, this is a phenomenal option. It’s pretty inexpensive, it’s lightweight, easy to store and has tons of storage.

This is a great option for most golfers, especially if you have a smaller stand bag. Not to mention, a one-year warranty (which even covers damages caused by airlines). 

If you want more info, check out my in-depth review of the CaddyDaddy Golf Constrictor 2 .

5. Himal Soft Sided Golf Travel Bag 

Similar to the CaddyDaddy option is the Himal golf travel bag . It’s also a soft shell, all black design that is great for transporting your clubs. If you’re a golfer who doesn’t travel much and don’t want to spend an arm and a leg, this is a great choice for you.

• Heavy duty velcro carrying handle.
• One external pocket for additional shoe storage.
• Business card holder on the front of the bag for easy verification.
• Made with 600D polyester oxford materials which is very durable. 
•  Warranty information. Unlike others on this list, the warranty length was a little gray and couldn’t find specifics for total warranty length.

This bag isn’t fancy by any means but for a casual traveler, it has everything you need to get your golf gear from A to B. While not as luxurious as Sun Mountain and others on this list, it’s very affordable and still a lot better than a travel cover.

6. AmazonBasics Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag

At this point, I’m convicned Amazon basically makes every item imaginable, including a great golf travel bag. When they notice an item is consistently selling they’ll create their own “Amazon Basics” model for it, including a low-priced golf travel bag.

The AmazonBasics soft-sided travel bag is very affordable and has a ton of perks for such a low-priced golf bag.

• One of the few freestanding travel bags. When your bag is inside, you can rest it upright or lay it flat. 
• Aside from the price, the biggest pro is the durable nylon fabric and ability to stand on its own even when clubs are inside. 
• This bag has a ton of storage with two massive outside pockets. Plus, it has a ton of padding to protect your clubs too. 
• A few negative reviews (what few there are) talk about wheels falling off and ripping relatively easily. Luckily, users have gotten replacements but it’s still more work and hassle for you if a wheel pops off or need a replacement. 

At such a low price, it’s a great buy with little risk as the investment is so small. Overall, it’s ranked very high by golfers worldwide and a great choice if you’re not traveling often.

7. Founders Club Golf Travel Bag 

The Founders Club travel bag is another top choice among golfers, not to mention its great looking and easy to spot. The soft shell case is made of a very durable material and there is a ton of padding to make sure your clubs travel safe.

• One-year warranty.
• External shoe accessory pocket.
• Easy to transport with dual in line skate wheels. 
• Heavily padded handles that make it easy to grab off the belt or lift out of the car.
• Customizable embroidery panel. You can remove a small part of the bag and get it customized with your name, logo, etc. This will help you spot it quickly and ensure no one accidentally takes your bag. 
• While the external pocket is great, there are also two internal pockets as well. These are great for rain gear, extra towels, and more. Plus, an internal strap to keep your bag secure.
• Only one color choice (light gray) could get dirty quickly. Otherwise, this is an excellent bag.

Founders Club has become a go-to name with cart and stand bags so it makes sense to roll out a golf travel case in their product line. This is one of the most stylish travel bags on this list, very moderately priced, and has a ton of storage for your gear. 

If you like the style but want even more protection, make sure to check out the Founders Club Hard Shell cover bag . It has the same bottom style in a soft shell case with a hard top, making it truly unique and helps you get the best of both worlds. 

8. Caddy Daddy Enforcer Hard Top

If you need a heavy-duty travel case, you will love the Caddy Daddy Enforcer . The hard top design makes it one of the most protective cases on our list but not too heavy either. 

What’s great about this case is that it’s not a 100% hard shell, like others on this list. Instead, just the top part is hard while the middle and bottom section is made with strong fabric. This gives it maximum protection  without  making it too heavy and hard to drag around the airport. 

The case also has both internal and external straps to keep your gear locked in. This will help make sure they don’t rattle around too much during a bumpy drive or turbulent flight. 

The Enforcer Hard Top also features inline skate wheels (only two) but does some with extra pockets. These large pockets make it easy to store extra shoes, apparel, and more. 

But the best part of this premium travel case?

The case folds up so that the bottom fits inside the top hard shell portion.  This makes it easy to store in your garage or even a small closet if you live in an apartment. It looks like a traditional bowling ball bag as it’s so small and even has a handle on the top. 

This case weighs 10 pounds and measures at 51 x 13 x 13 inches. While it’s a higher price tag than some, it’s 100% worth it and consider it to be a nearly perfect travel bag. If you’re a road warrior, this is the best travel case for you! 

• Tons of internal padding to protect your golf clubs.
• The case folds up for easy storage despite a hard shell top.
• Hard shell and soft shell design is perfect for serious travelers but not too heavy either. 
• The lightweight design ​​won’t make you pay extra airline fees by going over the weight limit. 
• Only two in-line skate wheels. 
• Pockets on the outside seem a little small. 

Click here to learn more about the Caddy Daddy Enforcer.

9. Club Glove Last Bag

The Club Glove Last Bag is another trusted golf bag that is used and trusted by tour pros so it had to make this list. This tour series bag is made of CORDURA, which is much more durable than nylon and provides a ton of protection for a soft shell case. Plus, it’s so big it makes it easy to transport tour and cart bags with ease.

• It’s made in the USA and everything from the material to the zippers and clasps are made with super high-quality material. 
• It’s super easy to get your stuff in and out and there’s one main zipper. 
• Huge color selection. This travel bag comes in 16 colors so it makes it easier to identify it in the airport carousel.
• When it comes to soft shell cases there really isn’t much wrong with this as far as storage, weight, and looks go. 
• The only downside is the price. As with the Sun Mountain, this is one of the most expensive golf travel bags available.

The Club Glove last bag is legit and easy to see why it’s trusted by the best golfers in the world.

There is also a Club Glove Last Bag XL Tour pro version that’s even bigger and offers all the same benefits. Plus, at only 9 pounds it’s still incredibly light and easy to transport with ultimate protection, especially at the top of the bag.

Both of these models are great golf travel bags but they aren’t cheap. If you’re looking for a reliable bag and travel frequently with a cart or tour bag, this one’s for you. Remember, don’t skimp on quality for price when it comes to protecting your sticks!

10. Samsonite Golf Hard-Sided Travel Case

Some players prefer choosing functionality over aesthetics and the Samsonite Hard Sided Travel Case is a very heavy duty. While it isn’t the best to look at it, it is extremely durable and has plenty of extra storage for all of your equipment. This hard shell case will get your stuff from A to B safely!

• Five year manufacturers warranty.
• Three color choices (black, navy, and titanium).
• Even though it looks heavy and bulky, it is very lightweight and durable solid.
• Inside the hard case travel bag is a padded quilted interior with extra foam cushioning on top to protect club heads (huge benefit over most cases).
• Very easy to move around. With four multi-directional spinner wheels and two inline skate wheels allows the case to be pushed or pulled.
• Internal compression straps secure the bag inside the case to ensure your clubs are secure.
• Accommodates larger 10.5″ top golf bags with longer, 48″ clubs (that’s three inches normal than a standard, off the rack driver).
• There aren’t many downsides but price is important and it’s not cheap. It’s roughly 2-3X the prices of some of the other choices on this list.
• Appearances. Personally, I’m not a fan of the look because it’s bulky and kind of generic looking but at the end of the day, it’s easy to move and will keep your clubs safe.

I won’t lie, this heavy-duty bag won’t win any awards for appearances but it’s one of the best hard case options. It looks more like a rolling coffin but I am 100% confident that your gear will stay safe en route to your destination. The ABS Shell shields your bag and clubs from the wear and tear of travelling. 

Plus, this is one of the few options that allows longer clubs as well. With quality materials and packing features, this piece of luggage can take your clubs is a solid choice.

11. Samsonite Golf Deluxe 3-Piece Travel Set

If you’re skipping hard case golf travel bags because they aren’t as fashionable, I think you will love the Samsonite Golf Deluxe 3-piece travel set . Not only do you get a good-looking bag, this golf travel case also comes with a matching duffle bag and shoe bag too. 

• Six two-tone color choices that won’t get dirty or worn down easily.
• A Duffel bag makes a great carry-on bag that you can use year round.
• Sealed ball bearing inline skate wheels allows for the case to be pushed or pulled.
• Inside features a padded quilted interior with extra foam cushioning on top to protect club heads.
• Made with lightweight and durable polyester that shields your bag and clubs while still looking good!
• Functional shoe bag with mesh ventilation windows to help prevent moisture buildup, and large enough to accommodate two pairs of shoes (up to to size 13).
• Smaller size than most bags. If you have added length to your woods, they might not fit. 
• While the material looks sturdy, some reviewers on Amazon had a different experience. 

One thing I like about this choice is the matching shoe bag and duffle bag. Plus, all the colors are great looking and appear to have been made with high-quality material.

Looks aside, the bag seems highly functional with the extra foam cushioning to protect club heads. Plus, you can push or pull the bag around the airport easily. 

12. Athletico Padded Golf Travel Bag 

The Athletico padded soft cover bag is one of the most affordable options on the market. For a quick weekend trip, I think this is a solid option but for longer destinations, another bag could work better. 

• 5mm of padding throughout, to help protect your golf clubs during transit.  
• Easy to carry. A padded shoulder strap further allows you to carry the bag through crowder airports with ease.
• 600D polyester and feature a vinyl base to protect the bag from scuffs and abrasions. 
• One color choice but the material seems sturdy. 
• Zero external pockets. Where are you supposed to put your extra gadgets and shoes? On the exterior of the bag, the only thing is the strap and name tag. If you’re a golf hoarder and pack heavy, probably not the one for you. 

This soft bag doesn’t look like it’s the most protective but reviews about it have been glowing. Ideally, I think this option is best for a lightweight stand bag not a staff bag. For a quick trip, this one can work but with no outside pockets, you probably have to use your luggage space to carry some of your gear.

If you’re on a budget, you may want to seriously consider this option. Plus, if you need to keep moving through a busy airport, you can throw this on your shoulder and get moving.

FAQs about the Best Golf Travel Bag

Do you have more questions about finding the right travel bag? If so, we got you covered. 

Where should I buy my travel bag?

I think Amazon is always the best place as so many people are Amazon Prime members you can get your stuff delivered quickly. In most cases, you can get your brand-new travel bag in less than two days and in some instances, same-day delivery.

So if you notice your old golf bag has a hole or is looking a little worse for wear, you can easily replace it quickly. Plus, with Amazon’s generous return policy, you can return it if you don’t love it after opening the box. If you take it out of the box and think the material is too thin or a wheel is too loose and could fall off, imagine how bad it will do when a baggage carrier is tossing it around. 

How much should I spend on my golf travel bag?

As you probably know by now, golf is not a cheap sport but it’s so addicting, most golfers will do and spend whatever it takes. While I can’t determine how much you should spend on a bag, I think the total price comes down to what type of travel you plan on doing.

If you’re the type of golfer who is going to travel frequently, you should splurge on a bag that will protect your equipment above all else. Looks don’t matter with a travel bag like they do with a normal stand or carry bag. For avid travelers, protection above all else. 

You also want to make sure it is well under weight limits, so you don’t have to constantly worry about that each time you go to the airport. There’s nothing worse than having to move stuff around so you don’t have to pay extra baggage fees. 

If you’re someone who is only going somewhere 1-2x per year, you can choose a more budget friendly, soft sided bag. While they don’t offer quite as much protection as a hard sided bag, each one above is a quality golf travel bag. Plus, you’ll save 50-75% depending on your choice. 

What are the best ways to pack your clubs?

Regardless of the bag you pick from this list, make sure you use these tips to ensure you end up getting your clubs to the destination safely.

• To protect your club heads, detach your driver and fairways woods if they are adjustable. Then, store them in the pockets of your bag itself or in a separate, checked bag to save room and reduce weight.
• Use towels or bubble wrap for irons or other clubs. Even though it’s more work, you can ensure they don’t get scratched during travel.
• Double-check the weight of your travel bag before you go to the airport. Also, make sure to confirm with the airlines how much weight is allowed per bag so you don’t have to pay extra. 
• Avoid putting anything expensive in your bag in case it gets lost (for example, GPS watch, expensive rangefinder, golf GPS, etc.). Losing your clubs is already a huge pain so don’t compound it by having other valuables inside. 
• Always take pictures of your gear before you go to the airport. This way you have documentation in case anything happens in transit.
• Use a stiff arm if you are worried about using a soft sided bag. A stiff arm is a few inches longer than your driver and will create a more sturdy outer shell. 

These tips with the right golf travel bag should help protect your clubs from normal wear and tear. For more traveling tips and information, check out our full guide on How to Travel with Golf Clubs or go here for a full golf trip packing lis t.

My Experience 

I make several flights per year where I carry my clubs and flying with golf clubs is always a little stressful, even if it’s only an hour-long flight. We’ve all seen too many videos of airline employees throwing clubs around when loading into a plane. Since golfers spend months if not years creating the “perfect set” of clubs, it’s easy to get slightly concerned. 

My best tip to ease your anxieties is to make sure to buy one of the bags on this list so your case is protective. Next, I always pack my clubs strategically with towels between my irons/wedges/woods. It’s also not a bad idea to unscrew your adjustable woods and keep them in a larger pocket. 

Lastly, I always make sure my bag is under airline weight at home to avoid any chaos at the airport. I will also put an Apple AirTag in my bag so I can always track my clubs too. 

Final Thoughts on Best Golf Travel Bags

Regardless of whatever bag you choose, selecting the right travel bag is all about protecting your clubs and finding the right one for your budget. Not all golf travel bags are created equal and I think it’s a great idea to grab a Bag Boy spine as well.

If you’re going on a golf vacation, your number one priority is to make sure they ended up at the destination safely. A broken wood or iron shaft can ruin your mood and experience that you might have spent a lot of money on.

Whether you’re looking for a soft or a hard cases, make sure to do your research. Each golf club case should get your clubs safely but personal preference, budget, color, style, and features will play a factor as well. Not to mention, some of these store easily in your house or garage while others could take up a lot more room. 

Also, you want to ensure the inside of the bag has plenty of protection for your clubs. Don’t forget to factor in your golf bag as well. If you have a cart bag, you might need to get a large carry case or hard case as the smaller, more budget friendly ones won’t fit. 

Pick up one of these golf travel bags, book one of those lifetime golf trips and start enjoying golf more than ever before.

2 thoughts on “Golf Club Protection: The Best Golf Travel Bags”

This was well written for novice golfers and those planning on enjoying this AWESOME game while traveling.

I feel so much more comfortable in choosing the best travel bag for my budget, travel itinerary, other preferences,

Great article. Very informative and well written. Thank you for your assistance in my purchase decision. Your article has made it much easier.

Comments are closed.

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Best Golf Bags

The best golf bags of 2023

Whether you’re new to the game or an avid golfer, finding the right golf bag is no easy task. There are an overwhelming amount of bags available to golfers, and most don’t know where to begin their search…until now. Over the last several months, Golf Digest editors reviewed nearly 100 golf bags to find the best bag to fit any golfer's on-course needs, style and game. Evaluated extensively, bags were strapped to editors' backs, pushcarts and golf carts; put through the wringer in the sun, wind and rain; and had every last pocket, attachment and feature evaluated. Among the bags selected feature the industry's leaders in design, functionality and innovation for Golf Digest's picks for the Best Golf Bags including bags for golf carts, carry options for walking rounds, hybrid bags for golfers who like to walk and ride, and even a few Sunday bags for those who like to keep it simple.

More From Golf

Hybrid Bags

Big Max Dri Lite Hybrid Plus

Motocaddy HydroFLEX

This waterproof hybrid bag's versatility makes it an excellent choice for all golfers alike. The molded hip pad provides optimal cushioning to your side while the dual strap is easily adjustable. This bag is cart-compatible thanks to a flat base and a rear lock that straps the legs in place. Full-length club dividers keep your sticks separate. There are five storage pockets, including an internal umbrella sleeve.

PING Hoofer 14

This hybrid bag (for carrying or carts) weighs 5.9 pounds and boasts nine zippered and eight slip pockets. The polyester construction is expansive, making it a great option for golf trips. This year's model features a new base design that reduces the likelihood that your clubs become entangled. The bag also comes in seven color combinations.

TaylorMade FlexTech Crossover Stand Bag

Vessel Player IV Pro Stand Bag

Adams Stand Golf Bag

Big Max Dri Lite Feather

Big Max calls this golf bag the Dri Lite Feather for a reason. Weighing in at just 3.5 pounds, it's one of the lightest full-featured bags in the carry/stand bag category. This water-resistant nylon bag has six pockets—one including a cooler—and a five-way organizer for clubs. Made with walking rounds in mind, the base is constructed such that it sits snugly in the back of a golf cart for when riding is the play.

Callaway Hyperlite Zero Stand/Carry Bag

G/FORE Daytona Plus Carry Golf Bag (By Vessel)

Jones Sports Co. Trouper R Carry Bag

The Jones Trouper R uses 100-percent recycled material to create the company's most sustainable golf bag to date. A large insulated pocket can keep up to four 16-ounce cans cold, while two fleece-lined valuables pockets allow easy access to your most important possessions. The five-way divider makes for simple club pulls while reducing overcrowding.

MacKenzie Leather Mac Bag

Maxfli Maxfli 2022 Eco Tour Stand Bag

Maxfli's most full-featured bag touts an 14-way club and divider and 11-pocket design to ensure that each item has its own special place. Made with fabric from recycled plastic bottles, this bag has both an insulated cooler pocket and an easy-access water bottle holder.

PING Hoofer

PING Hoofer Lite

Ping's HooferLite has long been a popular choice for golfers. This year's redesign features 14 colorways and a new six-way bottom piece inside the bag to guide clubs to the correct segment and keep them there while carrying. Nine pockets include a zippered rangefinder compartment and an easy-access external valuables pouch.

PXG Freedom Collection Lightweight Carry Stand Bag

Seamus Sunday Bag

Unlike many Sunday bags, this single-strap from Seamus can fit up to 14 clubs, though a more limited set is recommended. At just more than two pounds, the Seamus Sunday Bag includes one zippered pocket, a scorecard slip, bungee storage straps—think towel, extra layer or rangefinder—and a magnet-secured pocket for safekeeping frequently used items.

Srixon Premium Stand Bag

Stitch SL2 Fadeaway Golf Bag

Sun Mountain 2.5+ Golf Bag

Sun Mountain 4.5LS 14-way Golf Bag

The ideal bag for carriers who want individual club dividers. There's padding everywhere on this bag, including on the adjustable straps and where it meets your hips, to assist in a comfortable carry. There are nine pockets on the bag and a strap passthrough for a golf cart if walking is not on the menu.

Sunday Golf The Ryder Stand Bag

Sunday Golf Loma XL Golf Bag

TaylorMade FlexTech Carry Premium Bag

Titleist Premium Carry Bag

Titleist Players 4 Stadry

This carry bag, available in 10 colors, has a plushy double strap, substantial storage and Velcro glove patches. The waterproof exterior and seam-sealed zippers ensure your belongings don't get wet. The 2023 model has zippered U-shaped tee pocket for quick access to your essentials.

Titleist Players 5

Titleist upgraded its popular carry bag with a techy five-way divider and new YKK zippers designed for extra durability. External lined drink sleeves will keep your drinks cool while keeping items stored in adjacent pockets dry. 

Uther Mag Bag [MB1 cvl]

After 15 prototypes, Uther's latest is a bag designed to work seamlessly with the company's array of magnetic accessories. The upper-right panel contains an 11-by-seven-inch magnetic plate for attaching and removing magnetic accessories. Though sleek in profile, the bag feels roomy with two large wrap-around zippered pockets containing several smaller pockets.

Vessel Player IV DXR Stand Bag

Wilson Dynapower Exo Lite Stand Bag

Wilson Classix Stand Golf Bag

XXIO Lady Stand Bag

Callaway ORG 14 CART BAG

Honma Black Cart Bag

MacGregor US Army by MacGregor Golf Deluxe 14-Way Stand Bag

Motocaddy Dry-Series

The Dry-Series cart bag was designed to be used on Motocaddy push carts. The base has raised slots that lock your bag in place, preventing it from twisting, removing the need for a lower strap. The nylon exterior and heat-welded seams are waterproof and withstand inclement weather without losing shape. The zippers provide an airtight seal and allow for snag-free opening.

PXG Deluxe Cart Bag

For the pack-rat golfer in need of order, this leather bag—with 17 pockets—is your new best friend. The six-way top comfortably holds 14 clubs, and an external magnetic attachment makes accessing your putter easy. The thickly padded carry strap won't dig into your shoulder when transporting the bag from car to course.

Sun Mountain C-130 Cart Bag

Sun Mountain's segment defining cart bag, available in six colors, features 13 forward-facing pockets for ample storage and easy access while the bag is strapped in. The intuitive 14-way top makes it effortless to locate and remove the club you need. The dedicated, velour-lined range-finder pocket has a magnetic closure.

TaylorMade Supreme Cart Bag

TaylorMade's high-end cart bag has seven forward-facing pockets for organizational ease. The accessories pouch closes by magnet or zipper and provides quick access to frequently used items like golf balls, tees, and ball markers. The bag comes in 13 color combinations.

Vessel Lux Cart Bag

*Reporting and editing by Daria Delfino, Jared Goldstein, Mike Stachura, Brittany Romano and Sam Weinman.

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• Updated: February 9, 2024

Best Golf Travel Bag 2023

by Independent Golf Reviews

We love traveling to play golf and have tested a lot of golf travel bags over the years. In 2023, we found that the Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Bag is the best golf travel bag.

Golf travel bags should keep your golf clubs safe when you’re traveling. They need to offer that protection, or they’re not doing their job.

Also, golf travel bags must be made from durable material. If the travel bag is easily damaged, your golf clubs don’t stand much chance in transit.

And because you use them when traveling, golf travel bags need to be mobile. You can’t be lugging around a heavy travel bag while on the road. Therefore, the best golf travel bags should have wheels for excellent maneuverability.

The Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Bag offers exceptional protection for your golf clubs. You can rest easy knowing that your clubs will be safe in this travel bag.

It’s made from high-quality materials, so it passes the durability test. We all know how bags can get beat up in luggage handling. However, the Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Bag is solid and tough. You don’t need to worry about it – or your clubs – getting damaged.

With this travel bag, you can glide around the airport with ease. It’ll give you no problems maneuvering it in crowded spaces.

THE 10 BEST GOLF TRAVEL BAG 2023

• Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Bag (Best Overall)
• Callaway OGIO Alpha Travel Cover (Runner-Up)
• SKB Deluxe Standard ATA Golf Travel Case (Best Hard Case)
• OutdoorMaster Padded Golf Travel Bag (Best Value)
• Himal Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag (Best Budget)
• Club Glove Last Bag Large Pro (Tour Trusted)
• Samsonite Golf Hard-Sided Travel Cover Case (Alternate Hard Case)
• CaddyDaddy Constrictor Padded Golf Travel Bag (Alternate Value)
• MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover (Great Security)
• Amazon Basics Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag (Alternate Budget)

1. Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Bag (Best Overall)

The Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Bag is the best overall travel bag in 2023. Sun Mountain has become known in the golf world for its quality products. And this is a quality golf travel bag.

To protect your clubs, it has thick padding around the top. This keeps your driver and fairway woods safe when your clubs are in transit and on the airport carousel. As the longest clubs in the bag, they’re in most danger of breaking when you travel. However, the Sun Mountain ClubGlider ensures you can travel with peace of mind. Two interior straps also keep your golf bag secure, helping with overall protection.

The best golf travel bags also make going on golf trips easy. They should lessen the burden of traveling with a full golf bag.

This one features an integrated leg set. You can choose between using two wheels or four wheels. For your convenience, you can retract the extra wheels when not needed. The wheels on this travel bag offer you excellent maneuverability. You can glide through the airport easily without being weighed down by a cumbersome travel bag.

We like the storage this travel bag offers. You can store accessories or jackets in the two spacious outside pockets. And inside the travel bag, there’s plenty of room for your golf shoes or anything else you want to take with you.

The Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Bag is a top-class premium travel bag.

2. Callaway OGIO Alpha Travel Cover (Runner-Up)

The Callaway OGIO Alpha Travel Cover is a worthy runner-up in the battle for the best golf travel bags. It’s not as heavy as the previous option, but it offers great protection for your clubs.

The 900D polyester fabric is durable and can take some knocks when you’re on golf travel. However, the protection on offer keeps your valuables and clubs safe. Dense foam padding around the top gives this travel bag a sturdy structure. And a skid plate on the bottom protects it from damage.

With two wheels, this travel bag is mobile and easy to pull along. It’s not too heavy and doesn’t strain your body much. You can get through the airport quickly, pulling this travel bag.

It offers you plenty of storage as well, with two exterior storage spaces. You can slot your golf shoes in here or any other accessories you might want to take.

3. SKB Deluxe Standard ATA Golf Travel Case (Best Hard Case)

The SKB Deluxe Standard ATA Golf Travel Case is the best hard-case option. This is a heavy-duty bag and will protect your clubs no matter how you’re traveling.

This travel cover is incredibly durable because it is made from ultra-high, molecular weight polyethylene. It’s sealed to prevent dirt, dust, and moisture from getting in, offering fantastic protection for your clubs. This hard-sided bag gives you the ultimate peace of mind while traveling for golf.

The cover is molded to fit cart bags, stand bags, or carry bags. This form-fitting design accommodates the vast majority of today’s most popular golf bags. So, it’s unlikely you’ll have a golf bag that doesn’t fit into it.

4. OutdoorMaster Padded Golf Travel Bag (Best Value)

The OutdoorMaster Padded Golf Travel Bag is the best value golf travel bag. This bag has excellent padding that will protect your clubs when you travel. The material is waterproof and wear-resistant, giving you that extra protection and durability.

Extra foam cushioning ensures your club heads have more protection. That’s great news because this area can be more vulnerable to damage.

You’ll have no problem traveling with this golf travel bag. In-line skate wheels make it extremely easy to get around when you’re on the move. Also, it has a shoulder strap and multiple handles, so it’s easy to lift when needed.

There’s loads of room on offer here for storing other items. Each pocket on the sides might as well be a shoe bag. And there’s plenty of space inside the travel bag itself to store extra items.

5. Himal Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag (Best Budget)

The Himal Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag is the best budget-friendly bag. This soft-sided travel bag is made of premium 600D, heavy-duty polyester oxford fabric. It’ll protect your clubs at a great price.

This golf travel bag has an excellent wheel system. You can glide through the airport effortlessly with this travel bag. And you can change direction without the wheels jarring, so you can easily get through a crowd when in a hurry.

It comes in a universal size, so you’ll have no problems fitting your golf bag into it. Also, there’s plenty of space left over to store other items. And external compression straps keep everything compact and secure.

6. Club Glove Last Bag Large Pro (Tour Trusted)

The Club Glove Last Bag Large Pro is a tour-trusted golf travel bag. Tour pros like Rory McIlroy and Dustin Johnson use these golf travel bags.

It is spacious and sturdy and will protect your clubs when you travel. That’s why the pros trust it. They can’t afford their custom clubs to get damaged in transit to a tournament.

In-line skate wheels allow you to get around effortlessly. The smooth-rolling wheels glide along and don’t make too much noise.

It’s easy to load this travel bag with your golf clubs. An over-the-top zipper gives you quick access, so you can pack your clubs in no time. Once your clubs are inside, you can make everything secure and compact with three external straps.

7. Samsonite Golf Hard-Sided Travel Cover Case (Alternate Hard Case)

The Samsonite Golf Hard-Sided Travel Cover Case is a great alternate hard-shell option. The solid and durable ABS shell keeps your clubs safe and secure.

A quilted interior with extra foam cushioning at the top helps to protect your club heads. Internal compression straps allow you to secure your golf bag inside the case. It won’t move around, limiting the chance of anything breaking.

Four spinner wheels combined with two in-line skate wheels allow you to wheel this golf travel bag in any direction. It’s great having such amazing maneuverability when you’re traveling for golf.

8. CaddyDaddy Constrictor Padded Golf Travel Bag (Alternate Value)

The CaddyDaddy Constrictor Padded Golf Travel Bag is a fantastic alternate option if you want value for money. At the top of the bag, it has a north pole golf protector. This guards your driver and fairway woods against potentially damaging impacts.

This soft-sided golf travel bag is more lightweight than other bags. However, it still offers adequate protection. The top of the bag is heavily padded, so it absorbs any impact when baggage handlers are loading your travel bag.

In-line wheels make this travel bag easy to maneuver. Combine that with the lightweight construction, and this is one of the easiest golf travel bags to take on a trip.

9. MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover (Great Security)

The MacGregor VIP II Premium Travel Cover gives you great security when traveling for golf. You can seal the cover with three heavy-duty external straps. You’ll be confident in the security that provides for your clubs. Also, lockable dual zips add an extra layer of security for other belongings you may be traveling with.

This travel bag is durable and offers good protection. Additional padding at the top of the cover gives your clubs more protection. And an internal strap holds the clubs in place, giving you even more security.

Space is important in golf travel bags, and this one has plenty of space for other items. You can easily fit in other golf equipment or extra clothing.

10. Amazon Basics Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag (Alternate Budget)

The Amazon Basics Soft-Sided Golf Travel Bag is a good alternate budget option. Some travel bags can be very expensive, but this one comes at an excellent price.

It’s made from durable nylon fabric, so it’ll stand up to the rigors of travel. Also, reinforced stress points give it some extra protection.

This is a freestanding travel bag, meaning it’ll stand upright even when your clubs are inside. That’s handy because you don’t have to keep setting it down and lifting it again when you’re moving.

This travel bag has good padding, with the top being heavily padded to protect club heads. Also, compression straps inside keep your clubs secure.

Two large pockets on the outside give you ample storage room. These are zippered so you can store your golf gear securely.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A GOLF TRAVEL BAG

When buying a golf travel bag, you should look for protection, durability, wheels, weight, interior straps, storage, and price.

Protection is the main thing you want in the best golf travel bags. They must protect your golf bag and golf equipment. If not, they’re pretty much useless.

We all know that baggage handlers aren’t going to carefully set your travel bag down. They just throw it on and grab the next item of luggage. Therefore, the best golf travel bags must protect your clubs.

You also want a good golf travel bag to be durable. If it’s not durable, you can’t have confidence that it’ll protect your clubs.

Also, you want it to last you for a long time. It’s no good having to buy a new travel bag for every few golf trips.

All the best golf travel bags have wheels these days. They make it so much easier for you to travel with your golf bag and equipment.

And you want the wheels to last as well. A broken wheel can make your golf trip much more work than you’d like. In-line skate wheels are a great option because they’re more protected than standard wheels. Also, they roll smoothly, making your walk through the airport effortless.

You should look at weight when buying a golf travel bag. If it’s too heavy, it’ll cause you hassle when you’re traveling. You don’t want to be lugging a heavy bag around, especially if you travel a lot for golf.

Also, you don’t want to injure your back with a heavy travel bag. You’ve got golf to play, after all.

Interior Straps

A travel bag with interior straps gives your golf bag more security. Your golf bag won’t move around inside your case, and that means your clubs won’t jerk around either. That security limits the chances of something breaking.

Storage is essential to look for when buying a golf travel cover. It’s not enough just to have enough space for your clubs. You need space for other golf accessories as well. Our favorite golf travel bags always have a good amount of storage. Maybe you’re playing some hard courses and need to take some extra golf balls on your golf vacation.

You should look at the price because you want a bag that meets your needs but fits into your budget. Golf travel bags widely range in price, so you need to consider the price.

If you go on a golf vacation once every few years, you may not want to buy a premium option. However, that’d make sense if you travel a lot for golf.

And that’s everything you need to know about golf travel bags. You have some excellent options to choose from in 2023.

The Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Travel Bag is the best overall. It gives you exceptional protection and security. And the high-quality material is extremely durable.

The wheels work great, and there’s plenty of storage available. Whether you have a stand bag or a cart bag, it’ll easily fit into the best golf travel bag in 2023.

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11 Best Golf Bags on Amazon in 2024, Vetted by Players

Put that Prime membership to use and have a new bag on your doorstep in two days flat.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

IN A WORLD of crazy expensive golf bags that are tough to actually get your hands on, we still look to Amazon if we’re looking for a bag that is either super affordable, arrives at our home blazing fast, or is a combination of both. For a long time, you could really only find knockoffs and cheap options at the retailer, but we’ve found that the best golf bags on Amazon now come from the big players like Nike, Callaway, Taylor Made, and more.

Best Golf Bags on Amazon

Best Overall

Callaway callaway golf fairway c stand bag.

Best Deal Bag

Gohimal 14-way golf stand bag.

Best Bag Upgrade

Titleist players 5 bag.

Best Sunday Carry Bag

Sunday golf loma xl bag.

Best Cart Bag

Taylormade pro cart bag.

Best Par 3 Bag

Orlimar pitch & putt golf lightweight stand carry bag.

Best Full-Sized Stand Bag

Nike sport lite golf bag.

Best If-You-Know-You-Know Bag

Mizuno br-d3 stand bag.

Best Vintage-Inspired Bag

Tourbon vintage golf club carry bag.

Best Lightweight Bag

Cobra golf ultralight sunday bag, what to look for in a golf bag, type of bag.

There are a handful of golf bag types out there, but the main three to know about are cart bags, stand bags, and Sunday bags. A cart bag is meant for cart use, which means they're designed for carrying on a golf cart or on a roller cart when walking the course. Cart bags are usually larger and contain more organizational space. The downside is they're heavier and, hence the name, you need to rent a cart. A stand bag is meant for carrying. They typically have better strap designs (like cushioned double straps) and are lighter than cart bags. Stand bags get the name from having a kickstand to keep the bag upright when drawing your clubs. The downside to a stand bag is less club space (the bag has to accommodate a kickstand placement) and less pocket space.

A Sunday Bag is made to hold a lot less clubs (around 4-8) for short rounds or practice sessions. Sunday bags are the lightest bag of the three types. They're easy to walk with, making them the ultimate minimalist option for players. The downside to Sunday bags are limitations on how many clubs you can carry and the lack of comfort and special features.

Number of Dividers

The number of dividers on your golf bag depends on how many clubs you like to play with. If you play with a full set of 14 clubs (what the pros typically use), then a 14-way divider is the best way to organize them all. If you play with anything less, then you can get away with a smaller number of dividers.

A common set for golfers is 12 clubs total: a driver plus two woods, seven irons, a pitching wedge, and a putter. But some people golf with fewer clubs than 12 clubs even. From that 12-club standard set, a golfer might remove a wood (like a 5-wood), as well as a couple of irons they don't commonly use. Don't treat the statements we make on divider numbers as absolutes though, as you can get away with storing more clubs in a lower number of dividers; just be aware you might sacrifice some organization while doing it though.

Waterproof Features

It's worth mentioning waterproofing because this feature can raise or lower the overall price of a golf bag. If you're golfing a lot or have an expensive set of clubs, then it's probably worth investing in a waterproof bag. Some waterproof bags are better than others, with seam-taped zippers and waterproof pockets. Other bags usually just have water-resistant shells. If you aren't golfing a lot or if you have a more inexpensive club set, then waterproof features might not be that important. You can save a lot of money by opting for a golf bag that's not fully waterproof, then if you're caught in the rain while playing you can simply put a plastic poncho over your clubs or buy some sort of rain hood to help protect the clubs.

How We Selected

To make the shopping process easy on you, we rounded up our 11 favorite golf bags on Amazon by evaluating durability, performance, and price point. Some of these bags below even made the cut in best overall golf bags story from earlier this year. If you’re a Prime member looking to capitalize on free two-day shipping, or just like the easy of comparing bags on a site you’re familiar with, these are the bags for you.

You really can't go wrong with a Callaway bag, but our top pick is the Fairway C, which is thankfully now available on Amazon with Prime shipping. The newly designed model includes boosted storage all-around, from the clubs to the pockets. What's amazing is the Fairway C still maintains a slim, lightweight design (just four pounds in weight total). The bag is also waterproofed to the nines thanks to its water-resistant material and seam-sealed zippers.

Soft rubber dividers and a hard Shaft Shield rubber keep your clubs safe, while a flexible base makes it better on different surfaces and slopes. Everyone from beginners to experts will love this bag.

Amazon has a lot of wallet-friendly golf bags, but if you are going to go the affordable route it's best to avoid the cheapest of the cheap. This bag from GoHimal is just a tad more expensive than the other Amazon brands, yet it still promises a sub-$150 price.

It's built with a 14-way top, so you can stuff an entire set of clubs inside. You get a double strap for better carrying and decent pocket space (it even comes with a cooler pocket). Most reviews deem the kickstand to be sturdy, which is important because most cheap bags have terrible stand legs. We also like that the bottom of the bag is strong and capable of staying upright in a golf cart

The Titleist Players bags have been a golfer favorite through each iteration. The Players 5 is a sturdy stand bag with a low profile, promising plenty of storage without getting too ridiculous in size and organization. You get plenty of storage space (full-length drink pockets and apparel pockets), velcro spots for easy glove storage, and an overall weight of just 4.3 pounds.

The new feature on the Players 5 is a five-way top cuff. The extra compartment for club organization allows the ability to carry a few more clubs, so bring on the extra wedges and woods. This is the quintessential golf bag, we just wish it was a bit cheaper.

At the center of Sunday’s impressive lineup is the Loma Bag, an ultra-lightweight bag (under 2 lbs) that's perfect for carrying the essentials on a par 3 or for taking to the driving range. The Loma Bag is great for the golfer who is looking for a side bag for those previous stated uses, but to really secure a golf bag with enough space to play a round with, we love the Loma XL.

It's minimalist, which makes it great for beginners and for those who like a quick trip to the range. The downside is, of course, the ability to only carry up to eight clubs. If you pack the bag too full, you also risk putting too much weight on the pop-out stands.

TaylorMade makes a handful of bags for those who want a deluxe carrier, but really the brand shines the most with its Golf Pro Cart Bag. Its $200 price makes it super affordable for a quality cart bag that has everything one would want: comfortable shoulder straps, ample club storage, and generous pocket space.

Its nylon material and streamlined pocket space makes it easy to move and carry. The bag also has a 14-way top, making it a nice pick for those who want to carry a full set of clubs with ease. The only drawback is the lack of waterproofing.

Orlimar Pitch & Putt Golf Lightweight Stand Carry Bag

Sometimes it's best to go as minimal as possible with your clubs. For the days we hit up the driving range or set off to play a par 3 course, this is the bag we reach for. It weighs just 1.9 pounds and features a two-way opening to store about 5-6 clubs. It's true there are better small bags on the market, but the Orlimar bag simply has a much better value in our comparison. Think about it: for $70, you get a lightweight carry bag with a stand and a couple of pockets.

Tiger Woods may have left the brand, but Nike is still a leader in all things golf, from their stellar shoes to polos to stand bags like this one. Thanks to a 5-way divider, ample storage, and comfortable Nike Air-infused straps make this bag ideal for heavy use—you’ll pretty much never have to swap it out whether you’re going for a walk or spending the round in the cart. It’s not the most affordable bag we’ve found, but we trust the quality of Nike and think that makes it worth it. Plus, it looks great.

One of the more underrated brands in golf is Japan’s Mizuno. They make stellar iron sets that are loved by mid-to-low handicappers and we think this bag is perfect for those players, as well. It’s got seven pockets to store all of your golf accessories and a four-way top makes it easy to keep your clubs organized just how you like them.

The insulated drink pocket is a huge plus when things get toasty this summer—most of the bags you’ll find on Amazon don’t come as tricked out as this one. The stands are plenty durable and each of the colors look magnificent.

Vintage-style golf bags are roaring back into style thanks to a huge number of golfers opting to pare back their setup and get in touch with the game’s roots. If you don’t want to break the bank on a vintage hand-crafted bag, this bag is the perfect entry into the world of lightweight walking bags.

The construction is decidedly minimal with just one divider for your clubs and two pockets, but it will still hold up to 8 clubs and the leather/canvas material will protect those clubs just as well as a bigger bag that might be made with less hardy polyester.

One of the most affordable bags from a major golf brand is the Cobra Ultralight Sunday bag. It has hugely useful pocketing, especially for a Sunday bag, and the big handle at the top and double strap makes moving it around and carrying it up and down the fairways a breeze. Where many bags claim to be lightweight without really backing it up, this one really is very light at just 3.8 pounds. In spite of its light weight, it’s still durable enough for players who are going to use it day in and day out.

Callaway Golf Par 3 Stand Bag

One of the nicest small Sunday-style bags we’ve seen is this Par 3 Stand Bag from Callaway. It’s much smaller than the Callaway bag we mentioned earlier, but that’s why we love it—it’s the ideal companion for shorter courses or days when you just want a lightweight bag to help you endure longer days on the links.

It comes in a ton of great colors and utilizes two short stand legs to save weight and add maneuverability. It’s easy to carry in a number of different ways, so you can throw it on in whatever way is most comfortable for you — the handles are even durable enough to carry it by hand, if you so choose.

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The 25 Best Travel Bags for Every Kind of Trip

It's all about the right luggage.

Whether it’s a two-day business trip to Boston or a boys’ weekend in Miami, there are a lot of different ways your bag can support you. Along with handy features, looks play a part, too; you should be proud of the bag you are toting along. Get yourself that snazzy weekender with hidden pockets and a built-in cooling compartment. Treat yourself to that sleek Rimowa roller you’ve been eyeing since last year. Splurge on that monogrammed duffel to replace the one your investment bank gave you when you signed on. Don’t go on another trip without your new bag, and take some action now.

Best Travel Duffle Bag

Herschel supply co. novel duffel.

Most Versatile Travel Bag

Longchamp le pliage energy.

Best Hard Shell Carry-On Travel Bag

Rimowa cabin s carry-on suitcase.

Best Travel Backpack

Away the everywhere zip backpack.

Best Lightweight Travel Bag

Métier vagabond duffel.

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On Travel Bag

Samsonite pro travel softside expandable carry-on luggage.

Best Travel Garment Bag

Tumi garment bag tri-fold carry-on.

Best Garment Duffel

Halfday the garment duffel.

Best Neoprene Travel Bag

Dagne dover landon carryall bag.

Best Luxury Duffel

Lucchese cosimo garment duffel.

Our favorite luggage brands make it easy to elevate your travel style . If you need help narrowing down your choices, we have our 25 favorites that our editors have tested and reviewed. Out with the old, in with a new travel bag.

When it comes to quick trips that last a day or two, a duffel is what you need. And Herschel’s Novel bag is, in so many words, the best bang for your buck. Not only is it incredibly durable and spacious enough for several fits (there’s also a separate compartment for your shoes), but it’s also less than $100. That’s what we call a win-win.

Drawing its inspiration from origami, Longchamp’s convertible travel bag is one of the most versatile out there. Wear it as a backpack or carry it around as a weekender, this bag is going to get you from point A to point B with ease. It’s sporty and practical and effortlessly in fashion.

From Karl Lagerfeld to David Fincher to Martha Stewart, all the high rollers can be seen toting this suitcase. It’s got distinctive grooves and an ergonomic design, and it just screams class. Plus, the TSA-approved locks are keeping your belongings extra secure.

It’s also Esquire approved and worthy of an investment.

For train travel, bus voyages ( ooof, we feel your pain ), or even a trip involving a connecting flight, there’s nothing like a good backpack to keep you hands-free and moving at a quick pace. Made of water-resistant nylon, Away’s backpack is a durable choice with padded shoulder straps and a laptop pocket.

Surprisingly lightweight, Métier’s duffel is a luxe option for frequent travelers. It’s thoughtfully designed with specific places for toiletries, sunglasses, a laptop, and the rest of your valuables. A secret card slot in the exterior pocket makes for easier travel at the airport.

In the luggage realm, there are very few that hold a candle to Samsonite. For more than a century (yes, that long), the brand has been churning out travel accessories, always offering quality styles for the day. It doesn’t get bogged down by its history. This soft-shell spinner, for example, features wireless charging pockets and a compartment for toiletries, and it’s made of 100 percent ballistic nylon. It’s also less than $250, which makes is a virtual steal.

Business executives know the importance of a garment bag. When you just hopped off the plane and are running late to that meeting, never stress trying to find a steamer again. TUMI is saving you from wrinkle embarrassment, keeping you put together everywhere and anytime.

We love our garment bags in duffel form. They are practical for traveling with suits or other formal clothes, but you can also use them for quick casual trips. Need more convincing? Check out our endorsement of this one.

In a flexible neoprene, Dagne Dover's carryall is one of the lightest duffels out there. It's got a laptop sleeve, and it also comes with a shoe bag and a dust bag. It also makes for a great gym bag, if you want something that's multipurpose.

We love this duffel so much, it was even one of the travel products our editors can't live without . Converting from a garment sleeve to a duffel bag, its versatility meets a luxurious style for a bag you will have for decades.

July Carry All Weekender Plus

Much like it's name denotes, this truly is a carry-all at its 50L capacity. A large padded pocket fits your laptop, and hidden pockets with magnetic closures keep your smaller belongings tucked away safely. If you are going somewhere for the long-haul, it also easily attaches onto your luggage.

Paravel Aviator Grand Suitcase

Paravel is new-ish to the luggage game, but in just a short time it is succeeding in the competitive market by focusing entirely on sustainability. The brand's collection is not only beautifully designed, but they are also made of recycled plastic water bottles. It also plants trees through Eden Reforestation Projects to offset the carbon emissions it produces via shipping.

Meisterstück Meisterstück Document Case

From the finest writing instruments to regal timepieces, Montblanc offers the kind of items beloved by jet-setters, C-suite executives, and anyone else of that sort. Naturally, this means that its briefcase is one of the best around, and will surely induce envy from the rest of the folks in first class.

Zero Halliburton Large Travel Case

When it comes to luxury, you can't ignore Zero Halliburton. This label is, after all, the maker of the iconic damage-resistant aluminum briefcases, so rest assured that its large spinner will stay looking good while its be tossed and turned from the check-in booth to baggage claim.

Victorinox Spectra 3.0 Frequent Flyer Carry-On

This Swiss brand makes luggage that lasts. Constructed in a high performance recycled polycarbonate, this suitcase is durable and eco-conscious. It expands by 20 percent and has multiple compartments for smart storage. We also love this piece from Victorinox because you can personalize it for no added cost.

Coofay Travel Backpack

Now you can pack for a weekend trip in a backpack. There's a laptop compartment, separate shoe storage, and a USB charging port. Travel compactly and with rest assured that everything you need it right on your back.

Lululemon Command the Day Duffel Bag

Aptly named, this bag is going to be your 24/7 savior. A water-repellent fabric protects against spills and weather. You can stay organized with the allocated pockets for shoes, laptop, and gear.

Yeti Crossroads Duffel Bag

You know Yeti for its coolers and bottles, but you're about to love it for its luggage. A water and abrasion-resistant exterior coupled with reinforced stitching makes this one of the most durable duffels on the market.

Mark & Graham 2-in-1 Garment Bag

This bag is literally a transformer. Going from garment bag to duffel, it helps to protect your clothing with its folding design. The smart silhouette even leaves room for two pairs of shoes to store at the side.

Mack Weldon Atlas Duffle

This reinforced canvas duffle will pass any test you put it through—from the gym to the plane. It has multiple pockets, one that's designated for shoes and the other for drinks and snacks ( remember to throw those out before you get to TSA ), and a slip-resistant bottom.

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Reader's Digest

Top Travel Backpacks to Explore the World With Ease: Carry-On, Laptop, Business, and Beyond

Posted: April 12, 2024 | Last updated: April 12, 2024

Best overall travel backpack

Caraa studio bag.

Caraa is loved for its chic convertible bags, and its Studio design will be a new favorite travel companion. It earns our best travel backpack spot for its superior versatility, fashionable and luxurious finishes and functional design details. Luxury water-resistant nylon and Italian leather accents are made to last, and a secure turn-lock main compartment, padded zippered back pocket and external easy-to-grab side pocket make packing a piece of cake. Thoughtful details—like breathing vents in the main compartment, a waterproof and antimicrobial lining and a moisture-wicking mesh back—make this bag worth the splurge. It also comes with a waterproof wet clothes bag and a waterproof shoe pouch.

"I LOVE LOVE LOVE this bag. And it never ceases to amaze me. I've had mine for a year and it still looks brand new—despite being used every day," writes Tatiana, a verified reviewer.

• Three carrying modes
• Moisture-wicking backpack straps
• Anti-slip rubberized crossbody strap
• Dedicated 13-inch laptop pocket
• Available in two sizes and multiple colors

Best value travel backpack

Matein travel backpack.

This wildly popular travel backpack has more than 2,100 five-star ratings on Amazon. Here's why: The storage is exceptional. The two front organizer sections have spots for stashing keys, a wallet and a phone. The main compartment is roomy and ideal for daily essentials, and there's a separate padded space for laptops and other small tech devices. It's one of the best wallet-friendly Amazon carry-on luggage pieces.

" I travel 48 out of 52 weeks of the year and was looking for an inexpensive backpack that would be up for my travel challenges! Here it is! It’s perfect for my everyday tosses and bumps and being shoved into overhead bins on a plane. Fits nicely under the seat in front of me as long as I don’t pack it too full," shares five-star reviewer, Emily C .

• Budget-friendly
• Durable water-resistant and anti-scratch fabric
• Hidden anti-theft back zippered pocket
• Multi-panel ventilated padded back provides support
• Separate padded laptop compartment
• Includes a charging port, but not a portable charger

Best lightweight travel backpack

Jansport superbreak one backpack.

Since 1967, JanSport has continued to churn out some of the best backpacks for a reason: The durable construction is meant to last, and the affordable price point can't be beat. This lightweight best travel backpack only weighs 10.6 ounces and is simple, yet sturdy. The classic design of this JanSport backpack boasts spacious storage in the main compartment, a front utility pocket with a built-in organizer, a coated interior, a web haul handle and padded shoulder straps.

"...[I] have taken it hiking, camping, traveled to multiple countries with it, subjected it many times to being stuffed to bursting and weighed down probably to 20+ pounds, and four years later, the only sign of significant wear that it shows is one tiny hole along one of the seams on the back," writes verified purchaser, Katharine Hogan . For another great pick, check out the fold-up Paravel Backpack .

• Only weighs 10.6 ounces
• Water-repellent and abrasion-resistant fabric
• Available in 20 colors and prints
• Padded back panel and shoulder straps
• Main compartment doesn't have much organization

Best large travel backpack

Victorinox vx sport evo two-in-one backpack/duffel.

From the brand that created the original Swiss Army Knife, Victorinox brings the same ingenuity and clever functionality to its range of travel gear. A trusty duffle bag gets an upgrade with this convertible carryall that we're calling the best large backpack for travel. With a focus on practicality, durability and comfort, this two-in-one backpack/duffel is an indispensable companion for navigating any journey, near or far.

Hidden straps convert the duffle into a backpack and allow for hands-free cruising, whether you're racing for a flight or meandering on an outdoor expedition. Crafted from extra-tough polyester, it holds up on outdoor adventures. Plus, handy multipurpose pockets offer versatile storage solutions to avoid packing mistakes , including a separate space for shoes and compartments for electronics. It's a smart bag to have in your collection.

• 57-liter capacity
• Convertible multipurpose bag
• Adjustable padded backpack straps stow away when not in use
• Made of water-repellent fabric
• Has airflow channels in the padded back panels
• Only two colors available

Best travel backpack for organization

Béis the hanging backpack.

Actress Shay Mitchell's brand Béis (pronounced "base") churns out fashionable and functional bags for stylish jet-setters with wanderlust. The Hanging Backpack looks like an ordinary carryall, but features an innovative interior to keep all your gear contained. With a sleek shape, water-repellent exterior and built-in organizational system, it's the best travel backpack for weekend getaways or weeklong excursions. Pop open the snaps to reveal a removable shelving system. The accordion design allows for easy access and perfectly displays your belongings. It's the best solution for anyone who hates unpacking, and a smart alternative to packing cubes , too.

"When I travel, I am all about being completely organized, and this bag from Béis is my go-to as my personal item," says our shopping editor, Stephanie Hope . "I love that it slides easily over my carry-on luggage and can hold a few days' worth of clothing and essentials."

• Removable, compressible shelving system
• Lots of pockets for organization
• Adjustable padded straps
• Water-repellent fabric
• Laptop compartment
• Only one color option

Best travel backpack for business

Samsonite mobile solution convertible backpack.

A good backpack should keep up with you, notes Luo, which is why he loves convertible styles. "It's common to be on the move from morning until night," he says, "and a backpack should be able to easily adjust from the office to a workout to a dinner date." Samsonite, known for its superior luggage line, designed a convertible backpack that does just that. Using or removing the adjustable strap allows you to carry the bag in five unique ways: as a backpack, crossbody, over-the-shoulder bag, handheld bag or as an oversized clutch.

The multipurpose aspect of this quality luggage makes this one of the best business travel backpack options, allowing to seamlessly adapt the carrier for a range of occasions. Made with a sleek and sturdy nylon fabric with vinyl trim, it's both boardroom-appropriate and chic enough to sport every day. As an added benefit, there's a retractable "SmartSleeve" located in the exterior back zippered pocket, which fits over luggage handles for easy mobility when traveling.

• Convertible for business and beyond
• Water-resistant coating
• Interior padded tech sleeve
• Fits over luggage handles
• Only weighs 1.3 pounds
• Smaller capacity, so not suitable as the only bag for longer trips

Best travel backpack for kids

Pottery barn teen gear-up rainbow backpack.

Kids' backpacks get heavy —fast. But there's a smart solution to counter this problem. "Look for a very padded vented back, padded straps and a sternum strap for support," advises Renee Silverman, president of Irv's Luggage. This stylish number does the trick. Available in dozens of funky prints and five sizes (including a roller version), it has four roomy exterior compartments, a front zipper pocket with a cell phone holder, two D-rings in the front and back and a cinch mesh pocket on each side.

Even better? You'll feel extra good about this kids' travel backpack knowing it's eco-friendly: The rugged, water-resistant recycled polyester is made from more than 12 recycled plastic bottles. In fact, the brand has kept 66 million plastic bottles out of landfills to date, thanks to their recycled designs.

• Variety of fun prints that appeal to kids
• Five size options
• Easy-to-clean, water-resistant material
• Made of recycled material
• Customization available
• Personalized items not eligible for returns

What to consider when buying a travel backpack

Backpacks come in all shapes and sizes. There are duffle backpacks, rolling backpacks, mini backpacks, laptop backpacks and more. The style you should choose largely depends on the activity and the duration of the trip.

"You want something that looks fantastic in any scenario, from the airport to exploring a new city, but also has all the function to hold your stuff and keep you organized," says Adeela Hussain Johnson, president of Béis. If the backpack is essentially replacing a roller, then look for an option a bit bigger that has built-in packing functionality to fit everything you need to travel , like clothes, travel accessories , makeup and a laptop, says Johnson. But you also want a design with smart organization and dedicated compartments to make packing easier and keep small items, like jewelry and power cords, safe and secure.

If you're looking for stylish travel backpacks that work as a personal item for a flight, or need something more for everyday use, then go for a smaller versatile bag, suggests Johnson. (She loves expandable options, like this one from Béis .) "What if you decide to go shopping or go crazy in duty-free before the flight—easily expand it by unzipping it and then collapse it again when you don't need that space. It's all about options."

For Luo, he says the best travel backpack should be hyper-lightweight with a dedicated luggage sleeve to fly through the airport with ease. "Pick padded straps that support the back for days when you've packed everything but the kitchen sink," he advises.

If you plan to check your luggage , straps that tuck or hide away—so they don't get caught in conveyor belts or drag on the ground—will make the voyage run more smoothly. Lau shares another hack for flying , "I like to have a TSA-approved laptop and tablet sleeve, so I don't have to completely remove my laptop from the bag."

How we found the best travel backpacks

As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We start with the research and reporting basics—what products are made of, what they look like and how much they cost—to ensure that we're only recommending the buys that are worth your time and money. Then, we research the features that speak to the product's quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we do the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test.

Is it better to travel with a backpack or suitcase?

The best travel backpack is a versatile carry-on bag that allows you to easily maneuver—hands-free—through busy airports and crowded towns. If you're backpacking or traveling by foot, portability is paramount, so backpacks are usually the best bet. But, if you're going on a longer trip and need to pack more items, a roller suitcase or hard shell luggage might be a better option.

What size travel backpack do I need?

It depends on the length of the trip. Small knapsacks may be suitable for overnight getaways while you'll want a larger, more substantial size for weekend trips. For vacations longer than a week, check out the top luggage brands and best luggage sets . And if you're on a budget, scope out the best luggage deals for major discounts.

How much can fit in a carry-on backpack?

The best carry-on backpack should be able to hold at least a couple of days' worth of clothes, accessories, shoes and toiletries . Using packing cubes and compression bags and rolling clothes help maximize space in the backpack. But the exact amount of stuff that fits will vary depending on the style and design of the bag.

Most airlines allow a carry-on with a maximum size of 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches and a weight of 22 pounds (although, many domestic airlines don't have weight restrictions). But remember, just because a backpack can carry a ton, doesn't mean it should, especially when it's a kid doing the carrying. To prevent injury and backaches , the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that a child's backpack weigh no more than 10 to 15% of their body weight.

Are all carry-on backpacks airline-approved?

Do you plan to put the carry-on backpack in the overhead bin of the plane or under the seat? Every airline has different size restrictions for each, so double-check with the carrier to avoid unwanted baggage fees.

• Aaron Luo, CEO of Caraa
• Kevin Lau, retail sales specialist at Rei
• Renee Silverman, president of Irv's Luggage
• Adeela Hussain Johnson, president of Béis

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

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Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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