So anyone got plans for the trip this year? My team..."Split Happens" is going in March....18/19, we got some [censored] slots, 8:30pm for team and 11:30om s/d.

This will be our third year and hoping to improve again this year. Any tips or suggestions on preperation/types of balls to bring..(especially since it cost a arm and a leg to bring on plane)

thanks

Fly Southwest, still no fees. And, you are allowed 2 booked luggages, max 50# each. My 4-bag roller is 43# for the top with 2 balls and shoes. While the lower section is 46# including the frame and roller mechanism.

Or, if you can be without your balls for a week, ship them. The link for preferred costs is on the National USBC Website.

yeah sw is freaking out of this world expensive from BWI...........700 plus for me and the wife....looks like NW for me.

check on orbitz. airfare and new york new york. $420 a person for 3/21-3/25.

Todd, many travel agencies can arrange air/hotel to Vegas for reasonable combo prices. Just a thought.

Otherwise, pay $50 for your balls to be shipped and fly United from BWI, 1 stop for $253, vs Northwest, 1 stop for $350.

Our group is bowling Mar.6,7. We have a deal at the sahara where it will cost each person about $100 apiece and airfare of $273 from MSP

We bowl every Memorial Day weekend. I will be heading out there on May 22nd and heading home on the 26th. I fly SW so I never worry about my bowling balls. I take 4 with me. I carry on my clothes and my laptop.

Bowling Ball express seemed a little steep to me. I think that when I priced it out a few years ago, it was over $100 each way for all 4 of my balls. Then, I would have to use my bowling bags as luggage anyway because they ship them in bowling ball boxes (unless you have the tote bags). I am contemplating getting another ball before Nationals. If I do, I will take 6 with me. I am still up in the air on it though.

For equipment, you need a few balls.

1) Sanded ball. Like 320 or 500. This will help you burn a spot for you on the lane.

2) Strong pearl. Something that has a good backend to it and can cut through some oil.

3) A little weaker pearl. For when the lanes start to break down.

4) Spare ball. A must for Nationals. I highly recommend no hooking at spares.

I am sure that Jim will have a little more detail on equipment to take. That is what I take.

sorry for the ignorance but when you say sanded 320 or 500 are you talking about getting the ball sanded with that type of paper? I have a twisted fury a storm and a plastic..so i guess i will take all 3??

Todd, yes, 320 and 500 refer to the grit of the paper the ball is sanded with.

More common than sandpaper is using abralon pads or scotchbrite pads.