Weighing in on the weight issue

Let’s begin by making it clear; we’re not discussing my expanding waist. What we are talking about is airlines charging for baggage, including carry-on and golf bags and how that’s impacting your travel plans.

Unfortunately, the rules are still evolving. To further complicate the matter airlines often revise their policy with little notification and even vary by how “large bag” is defined. With nine airlines serving Myrtle Beach and direct flights from 25 cities, it pays to double check with your carrier when making reservations. In lieu of bringing the clubs with you on the plane, here are a few options to consider.

Luggage shipping services have their place, but are a bit costly. On the positive side you can arrange to have your clubs picked-up at a precise time and have them waiting for you at either your accommodations, or golf course. Although the service is outstanding and gaining popularity, there is a cost. Using a round-trip estimate from central Pennsylvania to Myrtle Beach the cost was slightly more than $232 for a large golf bag. For the identical roundtrip the estimated airline baggage charge exceeded $150. The two plane transfers the traveler would endure have me concerned. Would the clubs arrive with the golfer?

If flying is still your best option, you may want to consider handling the shipping of the clubs yourself. Between UPS Stores, Mail Boxes etc and numerous independent stores do-it-yourself shipping has become painless. We estimated the round trip from our central PA point of origination, including packing and insurance to be $160. Clubs will be waiting at either your hotel, or the golf course upon arrival. The one down side is making the arrangements for the return shipping from a Myrtle Beach area store. There are plenty of locations. Ask the accommodation’s golf director, if they can point you to one that’s convenient.

Of course rental clubs are always an option and most Myrtle Beach area golf courses have sets available. The cost is quite reasonable for a top of the line club set. This is a great solution, if you’re on a family vacation and wanting to get in a round while here. However, it doesn’t make much sense on a golf vacation. Arranging for a different set of clubs at every course for every round is a hassle.

For large groups (20+) you may want to consider leaving the driving to someone else. Consider chartering a motorcoach for the trip. Today’s coaches are nothing short of luxurious with DVD and monitors, comfortable seating and plenty of space for luggage, including golf clubs. Do the math. With 20 guys renting a coach and driver at $1200 per day that’s only $60 per golfer, per day for complete transportation needs. This has become an increasingly popular option for groups of visiting golfers. Of course plenty of local transportation is available for guys in the group that want to do their own thing.

Short of the always-reliable packing up the family van solution, what’s your answer to the baggage issue? We’d like to hear from you.