If you’re an avid golfer, a vacation dedicated to golfing is just the thing for fun and relaxation. However, whether you’re new to the sport or an old pro, prepare ahead by packing smart to avoid unnecessary expense and stress.  Use the following guide to help you properly pack for your next golfing getaway:

Begin with the Right Bags

When it comes to bags, the basics are a bag for clothing and essentials and a good travel golf bag. Luggage sets like these include check-ons and carry-ons in sizes to fit a variety of trips. Look for lightweight, durable materials, organizational compartments, expandability, maneuverability, and TSA-friendly locks.

A good golf travel bag is durable, padded, and has pocket space and internal and external straps. It should be able to accommodate and organize golfing essentials such as clubs, balls, and tees. Look for features like pockets with lockable zippers and inline skate wheels.

Golfing Essentials

If you’re a casual golfer, you could opt to leave your expensive gear behind and rent equipment. This strategy can help you avoid damage or personal loss. Even beginner’s clubs can be rented at most golf resorts. Serious players will want to pack golf clubs tailored to them. Sets are available with up to 12 pieces including essentials like a driver, woods, 9 irons, hybrids, and putters.

Pro shops at golf resorts can be money pits, so consider packing smaller golfing essentials like the following.

1. Golf balls
2. Golf shoes
3. Golf glove
4. Tees
5. Extra spikes
6. Spike tool
7. Pocket knife/Divot tool
8. Water bottle

Clothing

When packing to dress, keep in mind the duration of your getaway. For a multiday trip, your clothing list will depend on whether you’ll have access to laundry services and the number of holes you’re planning to play. Laundry service will mean you can pack lighter. For a shorter getaway, you can pack everything you need without laundry service yet still pack lightly with the right planning and the right carry-on. 

In addition to the length of the trip, consider the local weather and climate. For a geographical span, you may need to pack for a variety of conditions including a jacket, rain gear, or moisture-wicking clothing.  Include clothing that’s appropriate for the course code and enough for multiple changes to account for soiling, sweating, and rain. Be sure to pack special clothing for dining out and other events. Pack enough underwear for a daily change plus one day’s extra. Include a swimsuit in case the resort has a pool or hot tub. 

Golf shoes with spikes are essential to prevent slipping and stay grounded as you swing. An extra pair is good insurance in case one pair gets ruined by mud or water. Save packing space by wearing street golf shoes while traveling. Include walking shoes and dress shoes for activities other than golf.

Toiletries

Most resorts and hotels include basic toiletries such as soap, shampoo, and lotion. If you want to save the environment a little and bring your own, pack travel-sized toiletries for trips that are less than four to five days. To avoid high prices, pack your own deodorant, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Don’t forget to pack an ample supply of any prescribed medications. Include enough for an extra few days should your return time get delayed. Pack ointments for aching muscles, anti-inflammatory medication (ibuprofen or naproxen) for pain,  and OTC allergy medication if needed.  

Personal Electronics

The list for personal electronics should be short as golf trips are intended as getaways from emails and computers. These days,  cell phones give us a way to stay in touch with home. Don’t forget your cell phone charger. If your trip will involve driving, a cell phone charger that plugs into your car’s USB port or lighter is a must.

For golfing gadgets like GPS devices and rangefinders, check beforehand with the courses on your itinerary.  Not all of these are allowed on specific courses.