Know Before You Go: Ultimate Checklist for Your Next Golf Trip

Summer is here, which means it's "Golf Trip" season for groups around the world! The planning is complete, tee times are booked, and group chats are buzzing with excitement. Now, there's only one thing left to do before you hit the road: pack! Ensuring you have everything you need for a seamless and enjoyable trip requires careful preparation. Here’s your comprehensive guide to packing for a golf trip, ensuring you don’t miss a beat on your golfing adventure.

Make sure the Clubs are "Fresh"

Start with the basics: your golf clubs. Before any golf trip, ensure your clubs are clean, the grooves are fresh, and the grips are sturdy. A thorough cleaning with soap and water (tip: use a tee to clean out the grooves of the irons and wedges) will help ensure your clubs are primed for play. Clean clubs not only look impressive on the course but also perform better than those with dirty grooves!

Pack More than You Think you Need

When it comes to the rest of your golf equipment, it's best to err on the side of caution and pack more than you think you'll need. Nobody wants to be the person at the end of the trip asking their playing partners to "borrow a tee" because they ran out. Purchasing more golf balls at the course is always more expensive than buying them ahead of time.

The same logic applies to your soft goods as well. Plan to never wear the same item in consecutive rounds. This means packing multiple hats, at least two pairs of golf shoes, and a fresh set of gloves. Most golf trips include multiple rounds in a single day, so rotating these items between rounds helps keep them (and you) dry and cool.

Pack for the Worst, and Hope for the Best!

Regardless of your destination, it's crucial to pack for any weather conditions you might encounter. Many places in the summer are prone to random thunderstorms and rain showers, so it's wise to keep a set of rain gear in your golf bag at all times, even if the forecast looks clear. It's better to carry a little extra weight than to be caught in a storm without protection.

Additionally, sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, and an umbrella are essential items that should be in everyone's bag at the start of the trip.

Tips for Flying with Your Golf Clubs

If your trip requires you to fly with your clubs, make sure that you have a reliable travel case. Baggage handlers at airports won't treat a golf bag any differently than standard luggage, so whether you choose a hard or soft case, ensure it's sturdy enough to withstand wear and tear.

It's also critical to understand your airline's policy on "oversized luggage." Some airlines have weight limits and charge extra if your bag exceeds the threshold. Be sure to familiarize yourself with these guidelines ahead of time, and if necessary, transfer some items from your golf bag to your other carry-on or checked luggage.

And remember, when you land at your destination, most airports will release golf clubs at the "Oversized Luggage" ramp rather than the typical baggage claim carousel.

Golf Trips Can be More than Just Golf!

Some destinations offer plenty of activities beyond the golf course. Pools, beaches, hiking trails, and other athletic pursuits like tennis and pickleball are common on golf trips. Make sure you pack the appropriate attire if any of these are on your itinerary.

Additionally, many groups plan a dinner or night out at a restaurant, so you'll want to ensure you have the right outfit for the occasion!

"Scout Out" the Courses Ahead of Time

Part of the allure of golf trips is the unique opportunity to play at a specific course, often for the first and only time. Before your trip, it's a good idea to do a thorough "scouting report" of the courses you'll be playing. Having a baseline understanding of potential hazards, signature holes, and green complexes will help you maximize your experience.

Even better, if you're visiting one of the iconic courses featured in GOLF+, you can virtually immerse yourself in the venue before playing it in real life! Experiencing a course in GOLF+ equips you with knowledge about how certain putts will break, where to avoid off the tee, and the best angles to attack pins on approach shots.