Abstract: A golf bag is provided including a carrying system having two members attached to a surface of the golf bag and arranged to form an “X” pattern. A casing is affixed to the golf bag and defines a recess in a surface of the golf bag. A stand system is mounted in the recess. The stand system includes a pair of attached pivotal members and a center rod assembly disposed between the pivotal members. The stand system further includes a spring mounted to an upper end of the center rod assembly, whereby compression and release of the spring cause the pivotal members to pivot between extended and retracted positions.