I decided to switch away from using BBE this year since my wife is checking her luggage, and I get a free bag anyway. I may hate myself later, but it saves $150 and pays for my lesson... I used to take balls in checked baggage years ago, and know that they can be manhandled. Looking for current packing suggestions and wondering if there are any really good options for travel bags, which always seemed to be lacking in the past. I plan on taking three balls (3x15) plus bag = close, but safe on 50lbs...

All input appreciated.

Last year I used a Radical 3ball tote with wheels for the flight to El Paso. The bag itself only weighs 5 lbs, and I had 3 14lbs in it.

For the last 10 years or so I have used 2 ball totes.

I've seen far too many wheeled bags busted up. And as stated above 3 ball carriers are pushing the 50 lb limit.

Follow-up question, particularly for those using the tournament totes, which are much more flimsy... at least mine is. Do you pack anything around the balls in case the baggage bozos attempt to qualify for an Olympics distance throwing event using your equipment bag?

I usually just do a double tote.  A third ball isn't going to dictate me bowling good.  Also most 2 ball totes can fold down and be put in a suitcase.  So can a ball.  Lol travel light and put a ball in each suitcase Bahahahahaha

If your flying southwest you can check 2 bags 1 suitcase and 3 ball tote(kr meets requirements) then you can carry on 2 bags also 1 2 ball tote fits under the seat and a back pack that fits in the overhead or check 2. 3 ball totes take a carry on suitcase and a back pack that will go under the seat.

I have a Motiv travel bag, the whole top unzips (clear plastic on top zipper on each side) little plastic handle pulls both zippers at the same time.  I'm sure everyone know the type.  Anyway on my trip to the Military Bowling Championships in Vegas I forgot to tuck the little plastic handle under the Velcro and some TSA or baggage handler tried to pick the bag up by it and broke it.   Only damage I've had with it and I've used it for years.

Two ball tote and carry it on.  Fits under the seat in front of you!

Be careful of this.  Depending on the TSA agent, bowling balls can be considered lethal weapons and they won't let you carry it on.  It happened to a friend of mine.  I use a 3-ball travel.  Used to use Vise, an with 3-15lb it was at a high 49lb.  Purchased a Storm and it had longer straps.  Longer straps put the 3-15lb at 50.3.  I purchased a 14lb spare and am now back under 50lb.