Abstract
Embodiments of the invention comprise a travel accessory, a travel system, and a method for implementing the travel accessory. The embodiments can include a travel accessory having a base layer having a first side and a second side, and one or more adjustable straps arranged on the first side of the base layer, wherein the one or more adjustable straps includes a fastener for securing the one or more adjustable straps. The embodiments further include at least one set of loops arranged on the first side of the base layer, wherein each set of adjustable loops comprises a plurality of loops, wherein the at least one set of loops are arranged to thread the one or more adjustable straps; and one or more removable storage compartments arranged on the second side of the base layer.
Claims
1. A travel accessory comprising: a base layer comprising a first side and a second side; one or more adjustable straps arranged on the first side of the base layer, wherein the one or more adjustable straps comprises a fastener for securing the one or more adjustable straps; at least one set of loops arranged on the first side of the base layer, wherein each set of adjustable loops comprises a plurality of loops, wherein the at least one set of loops are arranged to thread the one or more adjustable straps; and one or more removable storage compartments arranged on the second side of the base layer.
2. The travel accessory of claim 1, further comprising an additional storage compartment arranged between the first side and the second side of the base layer.
3. The travel accessory of claim 1, wherein the adjustable straps are configured to be adjusted.
4. The travel accessory of claim 1, comprising two or more storage compartments, wherein a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment are arranged and spaced apart from each other to enable flexibility of the travel accessory in a closed position.
5. The travel accessory of claim 1, wherein the one or more adjustable straps comprise a first adjustable strap and a second adjustable strap, wherein the first adjustable strap is adaptable to be arranged over or around an opening of a golf bag.
6. The travel accessory of claim 1, further comprising a loop arranged on one side of the base layer.
7. The travel accessory of claim 1, wherein the base layer is comprised of a single flexible sheet.
8. The travel accessory of claim 1, wherein the one or more storage compartments can be closed by a securing mechanism.
9. A golf bag travel system, comprising, a golf bag; a travel accessory comprising: a base layer comprising a first side and a second side; one or more adjustable straps arranged on the first side of the base layer, wherein the one or more adjustable straps comprises a fastener for securing the one or more adjustable straps; at least one set of loops arranged on the first side of the base layer, wherein each set of adjustable loops comprises a plurality of loops, wherein the at least one set of loops are arranged to thread the one or more adjustable straps; and one or more storage compartments arranged on the second side of the base layer, wherein the travel accessory is coupled to the golf bag.
10. The golf bag travel system of claim 9, wherein the travel accessory is arranged over or around an opening of the golf bag.
11. The golf bag travel system of claim 10, wherein the golf bag comprises a tubular body including a handle arranged on the tubular body.
12. The golf bag travel system of claim 11, wherein at least one adjustable strap of the one or more adjustable straps are threaded through the handle of the golf bag to secure the travel accessory to the golf bag.
13. The golf bag travel system of claim 9, further comprising an additional storage compartment arranged between the first side and the second side of the base layer.
14. The golf bag travel system of claim 9, wherein the adjustable straps are configured to be adjusted.
15. The golf bag travel system of claim 9, wherein the travel accessory comprises two or more storage compartments, wherein a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment are arranged and spaced apart from each other to enable flexibility of the travel accessory in a closed position.
16. The golf bag travel system of claim 9, wherein the one or more adjustable straps comprise a first adjustable strap and a second adjustable strap, wherein the first adjustable strap is adaptable to be arranged over or around an opening of a golf bag.
17. The golf bag travel system of claim 9, wherein the travel accessory further comprises a loop arranged on one side of the base layer.
18. The golf bag travel system of claim 9, wherein the base layer is comprised of a single flexible sheet.
19. The golf bag travel system of claim 9, wherein the one or more storage compartments can be closed by a securing mechanism.
20. A method comprising: arranging one or more adjustable straps through one or more sets of loops on a base layer of a travel accessory; securing the one or more adjustable straps; adjusting a length of the one or more adjustable straps; and positioning at least one adjustable strap of the one or more adjustable straps to secure the travel accessory to a golf bag.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] The features and advantages of the present disclosures will be more fully disclosed in, or rendered obvious by the following detailed descriptions of example embodiments. The detailed descriptions of the example embodiments are to be considered together with the accompanying drawings wherein like numbers refer to like parts and further wherein:
[0008] FIG. 1 depicts an example golf bag that is used with a travel accessory in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
[0009] FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate perspective views of the travel accessory in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
[0010] FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate alternative perspective views of the travel accessory in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
[0011] FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate other perspective views of the travel accessory in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
[0012] FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate an example travel accessory integrated with a golf bag in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
[0013] FIG. 6 illustrates an example application of the travel accessory in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
[0014] FIG. 7 depicts a flowchart of an example method for arranging the travel accessory in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
[0015] FIG. 8 illustrates another example of the travel accessory having a plurality of removable pockets in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
[0016] FIG. 9 illustrates an example removable pocket in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
[0017] FIG. 10 illustrates other examples of removable pockets that can be used in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
[0018] FIG. 11 illustrates an example fastener used with one example of the travel accessory in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
[0019] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of the frame support structure that can be used with the travel accessory in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
[0020] FIGS. 13A and B depicts another example of a removable pocket in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention;
[0021] FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate perspective views of the travel accessory in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention; and
[0022] FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate perspective views of the travel accessory in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0023] The description of the preferred embodiments is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description of these disclosures. While the present disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments are shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. The objectives and advantages of the claimed subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of these exemplary embodiments in connection with the accompanying drawings.
[0024] With reference to FIG. 1, an example of a conventional golf bag 100 is shown. The golf bag 100 includes an elongated tubular body 102 having an opening 104 at a first end for receiving and storing a plurality of golf clubs 108. The golf bag 100 includes a closed region at a second end 106 of the tubular body 104, which is opposite the first end 104. The golf bag 100 can include a handle 110 that has been attached to the body 104 that can be used for transport. The golf bag 100 shown in FIG. 1 depicts a non-limiting example of golf bags that can be used with one or more embodiments of the invention.
[0025] Conventional golf bag travel systems include a completely integrated and non-customizable solution. Currently, there are no retrofit options available that can be seamlessly integrated with existing golf bags such as the golf bag shown in FIG. 1. The travel accessory described in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention is universal and can be adjusted to be coupled with various size golf bags. Additionally, the storage capacity of the travel accessory can be adapted to add additional pockets or compartments as further discussed below.
[0026] The travel accessory is capable of being wrapped around the golf clubs arranged in a travel golf bag or box to limit the movement of the golf clubs during transport, such as transport during flight or transport as cargo in a vehicle. Also, the travel accessory has multiple pockets or storage compartments provided on a surface of a flexible material. The travel accessory can be wrapped around the golf clubs and adjusted to apply pressure to maintain the position of the golf clubs during transport. The pressure applied to the golf clubs can be modified using the adjustable straps to minimize the amount of movement of the golf clubs. Additionally, the travel accessory can be modified to include extra storage by attaching additional pockets or compartments. This allows the storage capacity of the travel accessory to be expanded by a user based on their travel needs.
[0027] The travel accessory provides benefits including but not limited to increased protection for the golf equipment and additional storage capacity for its users.
[0028] Turning now to FIGS. 2A and 2B, illustrations of perspective views of the travel accessory in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention are provided. FIG. 2A depicts a perspective view of a first side of the travel accessory 200 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention. The first side of the travel accessory 200 can serve as the outer portion when coupled to or wrapped around a golf bag 100 such as that shown in FIG. 1. The travel accessory 200 comprises a base layer 202 that can be made of a flexible material. Such flexible materials can include but are not limited to Cordura, Dyneema/Spectra, WeatherTech, etc. The flexible base layer 202 allows the travel accessory 200 to conform to various size golf bags during transport and collapse for convenient storage while not in use. In one or more embodiments of the invention, the base layer 202 is comprised of a single sheet. That is, in this example, the base layer 202 is not comprised of a plurality of individual segments that are attached together. In different embodiments, the base layer 202 can be comprise of a plurality of segments that have been coupled or stitched together.
[0029] The base layer 202 can include adjustable straps 204 that can be arranged on a first side of the base layer 202. The adjustable straps 204 can be threaded through loops 206 that are arranged across the first side of the base layer 202. Each adjustable strap 204 can include a buckle 208 at a first end of the adjustable strap 204 and an insert 210 to receive the buckle 208 at a second end of the adjustable strap, where the first end is opposite the second end. It can be appreciated that the buckle 208 can be any type of fastener and is not limited to the example illustrated in the figures. For example, such fasteners can include but are not limited to snaps, buttons, magnets, and/or Velcro. The position of the buckle 208 on the adjustable strap 204 can be adjusted to change the length of the adjustable strap 204 by sliding the buckle 208 along the length of the adjustable strap 204.
[0030] In one or more embodiments of the invention, the base layer 202, on the first side, can include a first and second set of loops 206. In a non-limiting example, the first set of loops 206a is arranged proximate a first end of the base layer 202 and a second set of loops 206b are arranged proximate a second end of the base layer 202. The first and second set of loops 206a, 206b each comprise a plurality of loops that allow the adjustable straps 204 to be located at different positions or heights along the base layer 202. Any loop of the first and second set of loops 206a, 206b can be selected based on the needs of the user. A user can select the loops by threading the adjustable straps 204 through the loops. In other examples, the loops of each set can be selected based on the size of the golf bag 100 or the items that are stored in the travel accessory 200.
[0031] Although the travel accessory 200 is discussed with reference to two adjustable straps 204 and two sets of loops 206, it should be understood that any number of straps can be used and any number of sets of loops can be arranged on the base layer 202. Additionally, the sets of loops can be arranged on different areas of the base layer 202 and are not limited to the examples of the locations illustrated in any of the figures.
[0032] The base layer 202 can further include handles 212. The handles 212 are affixed to the base layer 202 and allows the travel accessory 200 to be conveniently carried by a user or placed on a storage hook or the like. In other embodiments of the invention, the handles 212 can be affixed to other locations of the base layer 202 such as the other end or on sides of the base layer 202. In different embodiments, a plurality of handles can be affixed to various locations on the base layer 202 of the travel accessory 200.
[0033] FIG. 2B depicts a perspective view of a second side of the base layer 202 of the travel accessory 200 in accordance with one or more embodiments. The second side of the base layer 202 comprises one or more storage compartments 220. The storage compartments 220 are positioned on the base layer 202 to maintain spacing or gap 222 between each storage compartment 220. The gaps 220 are provided between each storage compartment 220 to enable the travel accessory 200 to conform to the golf clubs and bag. Although FIG. 2B depicts four storage compartments 220 that are arranged across the base layer 202, it can be appreciated that any number of storage compartments 220 can be attached to the base layer 202 and is not intended to be limited by the examples shown in FIG. 2B. The number and size of the pockets can be varied. As the travel accessory 200 is wrapped around an item, such as the golf bag 100, the storage compartments will contact the golf clubs and golf bag 100. As the storage compartments are filled, padding and/or protection is provided to the golf clubs.
[0034] Additionally, the travel accessory 200 is adapted to cover at least a portion of the exterior of the golf bag 100. This enables the travel accessory 200 to provide additional support to the golf clubs during transport. Golf club heads and shafts are known to be vulnerable and can be easily damaged or broken. Additional support and protection are provided by positioning the travel accessory 200 on the golf bag 100 in this fashion. In this non-limiting example, the travel accessory 200 provides a retrofit solution to be integrated with various styles and types of golf bags.
[0035] FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate alternative perspective views of the travel accessory 200 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention. FIG. 3A shows the first side of the base layer 202 of the travel accessory 200 similar to that shown in FIG. 2A. The base layer 202 includes the first and second set of loops 206 and the adjustable straps 204 having buckles and fasteners. FIG. 3A further shows an opening 302 arranged at one end of the base layer 202. The opening can provide an additional storage compartment 304 for larger items such as but limited to a garment. In some embodiments, the additional storage compartment 302 can be secured closed using a zipper. In other embodiments, a different locking or securing mechanism can be used. For example, various securing mechanisms can include but are not limited to Velcro, buttons, snaps, toggles, and/or any combination of the above. Other securing mechanisms can be used to close the additional storage compartment 302 and is not intended to be limited by the examples discussed herein.
[0036] FIG. 3B depicts the second side of the base layer 202 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention. This perspective view of the base layer 202 shows the additional storage compartment 304 in the closed position that is secured using a zipper 304. As previously mentioned, the storage compartments 220 that are arranged on the second side of the base layer 202 can also be secured closed using a zipper or any other type of securing mechanism.
[0037] FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate additional perspective views of the travel accessory 200 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention. FIG. 4A illustrates a profile of the travel accessory 200. From this view, the storage compartments 220 can be seen extending from the second side of the base layer 202. In this embodiment, the storage compartments 220 can be secured closed using a zipper 306. Also, from this view, the additional storage compartment 304 can be seen. FIG. 4B depicts a top-down view of the travel accessory 200 in accordance with one or more embodiments. The storage compartment 220 having a zipper can be seen extending from the base layer 202 and the additional storage compartment 304 be seen.
[0038] FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate an example integration of the travel accessory with a golf bag in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention. FIG. 5A shows the travel accessory 200 that is wrapped around the golf bag 100. In one or more embodiments of the invention, when the travel accessory 200 is wrapped around the golf clubs (referred to as the closed position), an opening 500 is maintained at the top.
[0039] Although the travel accessory 200 is shown as being integrated with a golf bag 100, it can be appreciated that the travel accessory 200 can be used as a standalone travel bag. For example, the travel accessory 200 can store items in the various compartments and can be easily carried by a traveler by the handle 212 show in FIG. 2A.
[0040] FIG. 5B provides a cross-sectional of the travel accessory 200 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention. As can be seen, the base layer 202 having the storage compartments 220, encloses the golf clubs and the upper portion of the golf bag 100. By enclosing the upper portion of the golf bag 100, additional protection is provided to the golf clubs during transport. It is known that the portion of the shaft that resides proximate the golf club head is vulnerable to damage and breaking during transport. Additionally, the adjustable strap 204 can be positioned on the base layer 202 to wrap around the top portion of the golf bag 100. The overlap of the base layer 202 to the top portion of the golf bag 100 provides stability to protect golf club heads and shafts.
[0041] FIG. 6 illustrates an example application of the travel accessory 200 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention. In this non-limiting example, the travel accessory 200 stores a garment 602 in compartment 604. The garment 602 is only shown as an example. The additional storage compartment 304 is shown in an open position but can be secured closed using a securing mechanism such as a zipper. The adjustable straps 204 and the buckles 208 are hidden from view by the garment 602 and are not shown.
[0042] The travel accessory 200 is arranged on the golf bag 100 in a position to provide sufficient support for the portion of the golf club shafts that extend over the golf bag and also provided in a position so that it will be prevented from sliding down the golf bag during transport. In other words, the travel accessory is secured to the golf bag in such a fashion as to maintain its position.
[0043] FIG. 7 depicts a flowchart of an example method 700 for arranging the travel accessory in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention. The method 700 begins at block 702 and proceeds to block 704 which provides for arranging one or more adjustable straps through one or more sets of loops on a base layer of the travel accessory. At block 706, the method 700 includes securing the adjustable straps. At block 708, the method 700 includes adjusting a length of one or more adjustable straps. In some embodiments, at least one adjustable strap of the one or more adjustable straps are threaded through a handle of a golf bag to secure the travel accessory to the golf bag. In other embodiments, the adjustable strap is not required to be threaded through the handle of the golf bag or travel bag but can be secured by adjusting the straps. At block 710, the method 700 ends. It can be appreciated that different steps, or a different arrangement of steps can be implemented and the method 700 is not intended to be limited by those steps illustrated in FIG. 7.
[0044] FIG. 8 depicts an embodiment of the travel accessory having a plurality of removable storage pockets. In one or more embodiments, the travel accessory shown in FIG. 8 includes similar components as illustrated in FIGS. 2-6. In some embodiments, the travel accessory can be arranged with one or more removable storage pockets. The removable pockets can be selectively attached to the travel accessory. The surface (base layer) of the travel bag can have a fastener or mechanism for attaching the removable pocket and the removable pocket will also have a corresponding fastener or mechanism for attachment to the travel bag. Although the example travel accessory shown in FIG. 8 shows four removable pockets arranged on the travel accessory, any number of removable pockets can be used.
[0045] Fasteners such as zippers, buttons, snaps, Velcro, and other attachment mechanisms can be used. In another example, a bone and loop combination (shown in FIG. 11) can be used to affix the removable pockets to the travel accessory. As shown in FIG. 11, the removable pockets can include a plurality of bone piece and the travel accessory can include the loop structure which can be arranged at various locations on the travel accessory. The bone pieces of the removable pocket can be threaded through the loop structure on the travel accessory to secure the removable pockets to the travel accessory. The examples discussed above are only illustrative and are not intended to be limiting. It can be appreciated that the removable pockets can vary in size, material, and can also be arranged at different locations on the surface of the travel bag. In some embodiments, a configuration of the travel bag including removable pockets and other non-removable pockets, such as that disclosed in FIGS. 2-6, can be arranged on the same travel accessory.
[0046] FIG. 9 illustrates an example removable pocket. The removable pockets can be attached to different portions of the travel bag using the fastener or attachment mechanism. The removable pockets can be arranged on the travel in locations having corresponding fasteners or attachment mechanisms. As shown in this non-limiting example, the removable pocket can be equipped with a zipper to open and close the storage compartment of the removable pocket to secure the items placed within the storage compartment. The zipper provides one non-limiting example and it can be appreciated that other mechanisms can be used to close the storage compartment.
[0047] FIG. 10 illustrates example removable storage compartments (removable pocket) in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention. In the top figure of FIG. 10, a first side of the removable storage compartment is shown and the loop portion of the bone and loop combination are arranged around the sides of the removable storage compartment. The loop structures can be attached to the bone structures that are affixed to the travel bag (not shown). The number of loop structures and position are not limited by the example shown in FIG. 10. In other embodiments, the removable storage compartments can include both the bone and loop structures and the travel bag can also include both the bone and loop structures for attachment which increases the configurability of the travel bag and removable storage compartments. Additionally, having both the removable storage compartments and the travel bag include both the bone and loop structures allows for increased stability and support when both the bone and loop structures of the removable storage compartments and the bone and loop structures of the travel bag are attached to each other. In other embodiments, the removable storage compartments can be fixed to the travel bag using other mechanisms including but not limited to zippers, magnets, Velcro, etc.
[0048] The bottom figure of FIG. 10 shows an example of a second side of the removable storage compartment having the bone portion of the bone and loop combination for attaching the removable storage compartments to the travel bag. The attachment can be affixed to the travel bag to allow the loop of the removable storage compartments to be attached to the bone of the attachment by threading the bone portion through the loop portion. As previously discussed above, this mechanism allows the removable storage compartments to be attached and removed as necessary. The second side of the removable storage compartment also includes a handle which allows for the removable storage compartments to be conveniently carried when not attached to the travel bag. The handle can be positioned on various portions of the removable storage compartment and is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 10.
[0049] FIG. 12 illustrates a frame support structure that can be used with the travel accessory in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention. The frame support structure is shown being inserted into a portion of the travel bag to provide rigid support. The support structure enables the travel bag to maintain its position and prevents the travel bag from collapsing on itself, for example, when hung in a closet. The support structure can be made of any type of material such as plastic, foam, polymer, etc. As shown in FIG. 12, the support structure can be inserted into the top portion of the travel bag. A corresponding sleeve can be integrated into the travel bag to receive and hold the support structure. The support structure can be inserted and removed as needed, perhaps for repair or updates. In other embodiments, the travel bag may include a one or more corresponding sleeves at various locations on the travel to receive the support structure and the support structure in of those portions of the travel. For example, the sleeves can be located in the middle portion or the bottom portion of the travel bag. In various scenarios a plurality of support structures may be inserted into the travel bag to provide additional support.
[0050] FIG. 13A illustrates another example of removable storage compartments (removable pocket(s)) in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention. A first side of the removable storage compartment 1302 is shown in the top figure. The removable storage compartment 1302 is similar to the removable storage compartment shown in FIG. 10. However, the removable storage compartment 1302 can be affixed to the surface of the travel bag via magnetic attachments or fasteners (magnets) 1304 shown in the bottom figure of the FIG. 13A.
[0051] As shown on the back side (opposite the first side) of the removable storage compartment 1302, three magnetic attachments are incorporated into the surface or integrated within the surface of the removable storage compartment 1302. Although FIG. 13A depicts three magnetic attachments 1304, it can be appreciated that any number of magnetic attachments 1304 can be used. It can also be appreciated that the location of the magnetic attachments 1304 can be positioned at different locations on the surface of the back side of the removable storage compartment 1302. The arrangement of the three magnetic attachments 1304 (i.e., two magnetic attachments attached approximate to the corners of the top edge, one magnetic attachment attached centrally approximate to the lower edge) provides for stability of the removable storage compartment 1302 when affixed to the travel bag (not shown). That is, the removable storage compartment 1302 will not disconnect from the travel bag during transport or when being hung up for use without being manually disconnected by a user. Another example arrangement of the magnetic attachments 1304 on the back surface that can provide for a stable and reliable connection can include arranging a magnetic attachment 1304 in each corner. The arrangement of the magnetic attachments 1304 described with reference to FIG. 13A is not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of the invention, but simply provides and illustrative examples. Different arrangements of the magnetic attachments are within the scope of the embodiments of the invention.
[0052] As discussed above with reference to FIG. 10, other embodiments of the invention for the removable storage compartments 1302 can be fixed to the travel bag using other mechanisms including but not limited to zippers, Velcro, etc. Also, various mechanism, attachments, or fasteners of one or multiple types can be used in a single embodiment to affix the removable storage compartment 1302 to the travel bag. As previously discussed above, this mechanism allows the removable storage compartments to be attached and removed as necessary. The second side of the removable storage compartment 1302 also includes a handle(s) 1306 which allows for the removable storage compartments 1302 to be conveniently carried when not attached to the travel bag. The example depicts a first handle 1306 that is affixed in a horizontal direction to the removable storage compartment 1302 and a second handle 1306 that is affixed in a vertical direction. The handle(s) 1306 can be positioned on various portions of the removable storage compartment 1302 and is not limited to the example shown in the bottom figure of FIG. 13A.
[0053] FIG. 13B side view of the removable storage compartment (pocket) in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention. As shown in FIG. 13B, the removable storage compartments 1302 are magnetically coupled to the surface of the travel bag via the magnetic attachments 1304 discussed above. FIG. 13B depicts four removable storage compartments 1302 arranged on the surface of the travel bag, but it can be appreciated that any number of removable storage compartments 1302 can be used. Also shown in FIG. 13B also shows a handle 1308 arranged on a first side of the travel bag and a second handle 1308 arranged on the opposite side of the travel bag. This arrangement provides the advantage of allowing a user to hang the travel bag when opening the travel bag to get access to the inside of the travel bag. The current arrangement of FIG. 13B also includes a third handle 1308 positioned at the bottom of the travel bag. These handles 1308 provide a convenience to the user when carrying the travel bag and/or hanging the travel bag.
[0054] FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate perspective views of the travel accessory in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention. FIG. 14A depicts an embodiment of a surface of the travel bag having a plurality of magnetic attachments 1304 arranged on a surface of the travel bag. The removable storage compartments 1302 that include the complementary magnetic elements, can be attached to the various locations on the surface of the travel bag. The number and arrangement of the removable storage compartments 1304 can be selected by a user. For example, the travel bag shown in FIG. 14B shows four removable storage compartments 1304 arranged on the travel bag, any number of removable storage compartments 1304 can be used.
[0055] The travel bag also includes adjustable straps 1310 such as that described with reference to FIG. 2. The adjustable straps 1302 can be threaded through loops (not shown) that are arranged across the first side of the travel bag as shown. Each adjustable strap 204 can include a buckle 208 at a first end of the adjustable strap 204 and an insert 210 to receive the buckle 208 at a second end of the adjustable strap, where the first end is opposite the second end. It can be appreciated that the buckle 208 can be any type of fastener and is not limited to the example illustrated in the figures. For example, such fasteners can include but are not limited to snaps, buttons, magnets, and/or Velcro. The position of the buckle 208 on the adjustable strap 204 can be adjusted to change the length of the adjustable strap 204 by sliding the buckle 208 along the length of the adjustable strap 204.
[0056] FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate perspective views of the travel accessory in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention. FIG. 15A illustrates an example application of the travel bag in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention similar to that shown with reference to FIG. 6 above. In this non-limiting example, the travel bag stores a garment 1502 in compartment 1504. The compartment 1504 includes a strip 1506 that is secured to the inner surface of the compartment 1504 which is configured to receive a hanger hook. The strip 1506 can be secured to the inner surface in a manner to hold a plurality of hangers as shown. Also, shown in FIG. 15A, is a handle 1508 which allows the user to hang up the travel bag and simultaneously accessing the compartment 1504 of the travel bag. The adjustable straps 204 and the buckles 208 are hidden from view by the garment 602 and are not shown.
[0057] FIG. 15B shows the opposite view of the travel bag shown in FIG. 15A (garment 1502 not shown). The handle 1506 also allows the user to hang up the travel bag while be able to access the compartment 1504. Also, this arrangement allows the user to further access the removable storage compartments 1510 arranged on an outer (opposite) surface of the travel bag.
[0058] In one or more embodiments, a travel accessory is provided. The travel accessory comprises a base layer comprising a first side and a second side; one or more adjustable straps arranged on the first side of the base layer, wherein the one or more adjustable straps comprises a fastener for securing the one or more adjustable straps; at least one set of loops arranged on the first side of the base layer, wherein each set of adjustable loops comprises a plurality of loops, wherein at least one set of loops are arranged to thread the one or more adjustable straps; and one or more storage compartments arranged on the second side of the base layer.
[0059] In one or more embodiments, the travel accessory comprises an additional storage compartment arranged between the first side and the second side of the base layer, wherein the adjustable straps are configured to be adjusted.
[0060] In one or more embodiments, the travel accessory comprises two or more storage compartments, wherein a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment are arranged and spaced apart from each other to enable flexibility of the travel accessory in a closed position.
[0061] In one or more embodiments, the travel accessory comprises a first adjustable strap and a second adjustable strap, wherein the first adjustable strap is adaptable to be arranged over or around an opening of a golf bag.
[0062] In one or more embodiments, the travel accessory comprises a loop arranged on one side of the base layer.
[0063] In one or more embodiments, the base layer is comprised of a single flexible sheet.
[0064] In one or more embodiments, the travel accessory comprises one or more storage compartments that can be closed by a securing mechanism.
[0065] In one or more embodiments, a golf bag travel system is provided. The golf bag travel system comprises a golf bag, and a travel accessory. The travel accessory comprises a base layer comprising a first side and a second side; one or more adjustable straps arranged on the first side of the base layer, wherein the one or more adjustable straps comprises a fastener for securing the one or more adjustable straps; at least one set of loops arranged on the first side of the base layer, wherein each set of adjustable loops comprises a plurality of loops, wherein the at least one set of loops are arranged to thread the one or more adjustable straps; and one or more storage compartments arranged on the second side of the base layer, wherein the travel accessory is coupled to the golf bag. It can be appreciated that a plurality of set of loops can be arranged on the base layer. Each set of loops can be referred to as a strip. Each strip, which can be comprised of a single strip of fabric or multiple strips of fabric, can be arranged on the base layer.
[0066] In one or more embodiments, the method comprises arranging one or more adjustable straps through one or more sets of loops on a base layer of the travel accessory; securing the one or more adjustable straps; adjusting a length of one or more adjustable straps; and positioning at least one adjustable strap of the one or more adjustable straps through a handle of a golf bag to secure the travel accessory to the golf bag.
[0067] Additional embodiments of the invention are direct to a travel accessory including a base layer having a first side and a second side, and one or more adjustable straps arranged on the first side of the base layer, wherein the one or more adjustable straps includes a fastener for securing the one or more adjustable straps. The travel accessory also includes at least one set of loops arranged on the first side of the base layer, wherein each set of adjustable loops comprises a plurality of loops, wherein the at least one set of loops are arranged to thread the one or more adjustable straps; and one or more removable storage compartments arranged on the second side of the base layer.
[0068] Various aspects of the travel accessory enable simultaneous transport of golf equipment and personal luggage. The travel accessory provides a versatile retrofit solution that can be integrated with other bags or used as a stand-alone configuration. The adjustability of the securing mechanisms, such as but not limited to the length of the adjustable straps, the number of straps used, and the position placement of straps, offer a user a customizable travel accessory to meet any of their travel needs.
[0069] The foregoing is provided for purposes of illustrating, explaining, and describing embodiments of these disclosures. Modifications and adaptations to these embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art and may be made without departing from the scope or spirit of these disclosures. It should be understood that the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the present disclosure covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the spirit and scope of these exemplary embodiments.
