Flying with Bowling Balls: A Detailed Guide for Traveling Bowlers
If you’re a passionate bowler and have passion about Flying with Bowling Balls, you need to head to a tournament, or looking to get in some games while traveling, taking your ball likely seems non-negotiable. But transporting the heavy 16-pound sphere, including getting it past airport security in one piece, carries unique logistical considerations.
This comprehensive guide arms you with everything you need to know to smoothly navigate air travel with your treasured rollerball bowling. You’ll learn about critical airline policies, packing best practices, airport screening protocols, and tips for safe transport so you and your mini bowling balls sail through security and arrive prepared to play.
Researching Airline Restrictions and Fees When Flying with a Bowling Ball
Before booking any airline tickets for a flight with your bowling ball, research the airline’s requirements for transporting sports equipment. Since bowling balls exceed the typical carry-on size and weight limits, most airlines will require you to check it as standard checked baggage.
This means your bowling ball will need to meet the general weight restrictions the airline publishes for checked luggage, which is usually 50 pounds before excess fees potentially apply. Measure your bowling ball and bag dimensions as well to confirm they don’t go over the stated size allowances. The restrictions and fees for checking oversized or heavy gear like bowling balls widely vary across different airlines.
Protecting your Bowling Ball from Damage When Flying with a Bowling Ball
Protecting your bowling ball from damage or loss requires investing in a purpose-built bowling ball case when flying with a bowling ball, preferably with wheels and a hard outer shell. Quality cases feature integrated wheels and a retractable handle to simplify rolling the heavy bag through airports when flying with a bowling ball. They also utilize dense protective foam or inflatable inner bladders to cushion bowling balls from shifts during turbulent flights when traveling with one.
Look for cases designed specifically to fit one bowling ball securely when flying with it, as opposed to multi-ball bags. Only pack your bowling ball itself inside to prevent contact with other items during transit that could scuff or crack it when flying with a bowling ball. Having a single-ball case with room for nothing else also signals TSA agents that it solely contains bowling gear when traveling with a bowling ball.
Navigating Check-In and Airport Security
Checking in bowling balls at ticket counters will mirror procedures for standard checked baggage, including attached ID tags and baggage fees if relevant. But be sure to notify staff you are checking sports equipment so any special handling precautions can be communicated to luggage handlers behind the scenes.
When packing your carry-on, keep shoes, bowling gloves, rosin, and other accessories separate from your ball case to streamline screening. At security checkpoints, you’ll be instructed to remove your bowling ball from your bag and place it directly on the conveyor belt scanner rather than in bins. This allows clear, unobstructed views of the object. Know you may need to wait for supervised handling.
Employing Best Practices for Safe Travels
When booking flights with a bowling ball, nonstop routes minimize risks related to rough or extensive luggage transfers. Ship your gear to tournament venues directly if possible to avoid airline travel altogether. Consider insuring valuables. Arrive extra early at airports, move slowly through concourses, take stairs cautiously over escalators, and confirm protocols with airport staff to support a smooth check-in and screening process.
With planning and preparation, air travel with bowling equipment can be perfectly manageable. Weigh convenience and costs to choose the optimal transport for your situation. And best of luck striking down pins at your exciting destination!
