Whether you are an avid bowler or it’s just something you do once in a while for fun, it is essential to know whether you can bring a bowling ball on a plane or not.
Here is the short answer: Generally you can bring bowling balls on a plane, but you will need to place them in your check bag. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will not allow any bowling balls as carry-on items in the cabin because they are considered heavy sports equipment that can be used as a bludgeon.
In this post I will cover everything you need to know about bringing bowling balls on a planes in both domestic and international flights.
Let’s dive right in.
TL,DR
You can bring bowling balls on planes, but you will need to pack them in your checked baggage.
While the TSA generally allows bowling balls through security checkpoints, the final decision rest with the security officer.
Many airlines prefer to check bowling equipment due to its weight and size.
You will need to also make sure that the bowling bag meet your airline size limits.
Bowling ball cleaners need to follow the standard liquid rules in carry-on bags.
When traveling, use a sturdy bag, add padding around the ball, and check your airline’s baggage policies to avoid extra fees.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulates what you can and can’t take on flights within and from the United States.
Their regulations are in place to prevent any prohibited or dangerous items from getting on board airplanes.
According to the TSA, bowling balls are allowed through the security checkpoint without any issues.
Here is a screenshot from their website:
The same rules also apply with the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA).
Bowling balls are permitted in both carry-on and checked bags.
However, an issue that often arises is that a bowling ball can present a potential hazard when in the hands of a bad actor or an unruly passenger.
I wanted to find more answers from the TSA social media and here is why I’ve found.
This passenger wanted to bring a bowling ball and bag from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to New Orleans.
The TSA customer service team replied that bowling balls and their bags are permitted through the security checkpoint.
However, in the screenshot below, they replied to Allen that even if an item is generally allowed, it may be subject to additional screening or not permitted if it triggers an alarm during the screening process or poses other security concerns based on its size or weight.
This means that even if the TSA website says bowling balls are allowed in carry-on bags, the final decision rests with the security officer at the airport.
Can You Take Bowling Balls In Checked Baggage?
The vast majority of airlines will only accept bowling equipment as checked baggage.
Bowling balls typically weigh between 6 and 16 pounds (3 and 7 kg), and it makes more sense to check them if you are traveling with a two-ball bowling bag or more.
However, you still need to consider your airline’s checked baggage size and weight limits to avoid any additional charges.
You can minimize the weight of your bag by taking bowling shoes and other equipment on board the airplane, as these items can fit easily in your carry-on bag and are more prone to being lost or even stolen in checked baggage.
For example, here is what United Airlines has to say about traveling with bowling equipment.
They will accept one set of bowling equipment per customer as a checked bag.
A set of bowling equipment consists of:
One to three bowling balls (we’ll permit up to three bowling balls in one bag)
One bowling bag
One pair of bowling shoes
Service charges for first or second checked bags may apply. Bowling equipment weighing more than 50 pounds will be subject to current charges for heavy bags.
United Airlines is not liable for damage to bowling equipment.
Can a Bowling Bag Be a Carry-on?
Image / Unsplash
Whether you are using the bag for bowling balls or to complement your style, you will need to make sure that your bowling bag’s size and weight meet your airline’s specific restrictions.
A standard carry-on size is typically 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55 x 35 x 22 cm), and if your bag is within these dimensions, then most airlines will treat it as a normal carry-on.
Even though most airlines in the USA do not enforce a specific carry-on weight limit, the bag still needs to be light enough to be handled without assistance on board the airplane.
If you are planning to take a large bowling bag and other bowling equipment, your airline will most likely require it to be checked.
Please note that some airlines may not allow bowling balls in the overhead bins, so pack accordingly and make sure your bag can fit under the seat in front of you.
Can You Bring Bowling Ball Cleaners On a Plane?
Regular cleaning will help keep your bowling balls free from dirt and germs. Whether you are planning to take liquid, gel, or aerosol cleaners, all cleaning liquids must follow the TSA 3-1-1 liquid rule when transported in carry-on luggage.
Only containers of up to 3.4 oz / 100 ml are allowed, and they must be placed inside a quart-sized bag.
You can fit as many compliant containers as possible inside that bag.
Remember that you can always pack larger containers of liquids in your checked baggage.
Can You Take Bowling Balls On International Flights?
Traveling with bowling balls on international flights is no different.
You can bring them in both carry-on and checked baggage; however, it will mostly depend on your airline’s luggage regulations.
If you are traveling within or to another country outside the United States, you will need to check the specific guidelines and restrictions of your airline.
According to the United States Bowling Congress (USBC), more than 67 million people in the United States bowl each year, making bowling one of the country’s most popular recreational activities.
How Do You Pack Bowling Balls For Travel?
Packing your bowling balls for travel is not complicated, especially if you are already using a sturdy bag.
Here are some simple tips to follow:
Use a Solid Bag
Use a durable bag. It doesn’t matter whether it is specifically designed for bowling or not.
For example, you can use an Under Armour Storm backpack, which is designed for basketball players, but it has a dedicated shoe pouch on the bottom and additional compartments for all your other bowling equipment.
Wrap the Bowling Balls
Wrapping the bowling balls with soft clothes or materials will help prevent potential damage and scratches during transport.
Ensure that the bag or case is securely closed, and double-check that all fastenings are secure to prevent any accidental opening.
Label Your Bag
Label your bag properly with your contact information. You can also add identification tags inside the bag in case the outer one falls off. This will help identify your bag if it gets lost.
You can bring bowling balls on planes in both carry-on and checked bags; however, most airlines accept bowling equipment only as checked baggage.
Taking them as carry-on items may be challenging due to size and weight limitations.
Make sure that you use a durable bag or case to provide adequate protection and padding for your bowling ball and equipment during transport.
I hope this helps.
Happy travels.
FAQ About Bringing Bowling Balls on a Plane
Can you bring bowling balls in carry-on luggage or are they prohibited?
You might be able to, but in reality most airports won’t allow it in the cabin. Even if rules vary, the TSA officers can still stop it at security, so it’s safest to assume checked baggage only.
Are bowling balls considered weapons by the TSA?
Not exactly “weapons,” but TSA treats them like potential blunt objects (like bats or clubs), which is why they usually go in checked bags.
How much do airlines charge for flying with bowling balls?
It depends on the airline, but expect around $35–$45 for a checked bag, plus extra fees if your bowling bag is overweight.
Can bowling balls be shipped instead of flying with them?
Many bowlers do this. Shipping services can sometimes be easier than dealing with airline weight limits and baggage fees.
What’s the best way to prevent bowling balls from getting damaged?
Wrap each ball in towels or padding and make sure they don’t touch each other inside the bag. A padded bowling tote works best.
What are the weight limits for bowling equipment?
Most airlines allow up to about 50 lbs (23 kg) per checked bag before overweight fees kick in. Two or three balls can easily reach that limit.
Are bowling balls allowed on international flights?
But rules vary by airline and country. Most follow the same idea: checked baggage is safest and most accepted worldwide.
Why are bowling balls treated differently from other sports balls?
Because they’re heavy and solid. Unlike soccer or tennis balls, a bowling ball can’t be deflated and is considered a potential safety risk in the cabin.
Gargie, is writer, traveler & a digital marketing specialist
passionate about traveling and exploring new cultures. She is a savvy traveler who likes to pack light, testing various luggage brands and seeking out budget-friendly airline options. Gargie enjoys creating unique recipes when she’s not on the go.
