Golf Escapes’ Golf Trip Packing Checklist
So, you’re going on a golf holiday and are wondering what on earth to pack?
You’re in the right place! We’ve created a full, comprehensive golf trip packing checklist that includes everything you could possibly need for while you’re away. I’m talking from tees to tee shirts and ball markers to makeup brushes, by the end of this article you’ll know exactly what you need to take on a golf trip. Oh, and no need to take notes, at the end of this article you’ll find a golf trip packing checklist ready for you to download and print!
Don’t want to read the full article? Feel free to jump to your desired section:
Golf Equipment
Golf Clubs
Starting off with arguably the most important things to pack for a golf holiday, the golf equipment. With so many different tools, clubs and accessories to try and remember, packing can become overwhelming pretty quickly. So let’s keep things simple because when it comes to taking your precious golf clubs abroad, there are a few things to consider…
Booking a set of golf clubs on a flight can quickly become an additional cost that makes or breaks the trip. You may want to consider hiring clubs for the week, we can often offer great deals on this, just pick them up from the airport! Alternatively, you can look at how much it costs to hire clubs at the courses you’re visiting.
There are a number of different travel golf bags available on the market. Hard cases may offer more protection but they are bulkier and heavier, whereas soft cases are easier to carry but could result in an unwanted ding or two. If settling on a soft case, I recommend padding it out (plus, this is a great way to sneak in some more clothes!).
Should the absolute unthinkable happen and one of your clubs were to break or get lost, does your travel insurance cover this?
How far is the course from your accommodation? And will you have access to a rental car or shuttle? Lugging your clubs and equipment on public transport is about as glamorous as it sounds…
Accessories
Golfing accessories may seem like an easy thing to pack, but they’re even easier to forget! So what do you need?
Consider how many rounds you’ll be playing, and maybe do some research on how hazardous the courses are. How often do you usually lose balls on your home course? (Now be honest with yourself). It’s always better to have extras, but luckily most courses will have balls available for purchase should you need more.
Similarly to golf balls, it’s always worth taking an extra or two, just in case the round stops going your way and you end up gripping the club a little too tight.
The little things make the biggest differences. You can never have too many tees so just take an entire pack with you. A few ball markers will certainly come in handy, and a divot tool is necessary (you WILL reach the green).
If you leave this at home, you might as well leave your putter and divot tool there too. On unfamiliar courses, it can be hard to use your intuition for distances so having a rangefinder with you will ensure you have an enjoyable, stress-free round.
Clothes
Golfing Attire
If golf wasn’t a sport, it could be a fashion contest. There are a whole host of golf dedicated wardrobe items that you need to take on your next golf holiday, so let’s make sure you do.
Before you pack anything make sure you check the dress code of the courses you’ll be playing on, as it does vary.
As a general rule of thumb, shirts need to be collared such as a polo shirt or button-up. So, tee shirts, graphic tees, football shirts etc. would typically not be allowed.
Athletic shorts, jeans and swimming shorts are a big no go for golf. Instead, think chinos, tailored shorts and for women, skorts are your best friend! It’s always best to check the specific dress code of the course you’re playing if you are unsure.
Luckily the rules around shoes are much easier to remember, just avoid metal spikes, boots, sandals and anything too casual and you should be fine. There is a large range of golf shoes available on the market so you’ll easily find something you like!
Think about the weather where you’re going. If it’s likely to be hot and sunny, then consider taking a sun visor or cap of some sort. If you’re headed somewhere a bit milder, then a windbreaker or jacket of some variety is a good idea.
Make sure you pack enough of each clothing item for each round of golf!
Off The Course
I’m sure you’re capable of packing clothes for your holiday, but we’re covering everything in this golf trip packing list.
Remember to consider the weather!
If you’re headed somewhere without guaranteed sunshine, make sure you pack extra layers. Even if you don’t think you’ll need them, you’ll thank yourself later!
Another thing to consider is how much walking you’ll be doing off the course. If you plan on exploring the local towns or hiking up a mountain, make sure to take appropriate and comfortable footwear.
Make it tan friendly!
Again, I’d definitely consider the weather for this one. You don’t want to be shivering and waking up all stiff because you didn’t bring any warm loungewear.
Maybe you and your group are planning on a nice meal one evening, make sure you dress to impress!
Toiletries
Toiletries
I don’t think these need much of an explanation, but it’s worth making sure you’ve thought of everything!
Big emphasis on this one!
Electronics
Electronics
In today’s day and age is it even possible to walk out the front door without at least one electronic device? Let alone getting all the way to another country and realising you forgot your charger!
Make sure you do your research and find out what kind of plug sockets are in the country you’re visiting.
Travel Essentials
Documents
If there is one section you should pay attention to in this golf holiday check list, make sure it’s this one. If you forget any of these, your chances of having a successful golf holiday are about as good as making a successful two-putt.
If you are a UK resident, make sure you have a valid GHIC, or EHIC. Check the NHS Website for the most up to date information.
Travel Itinerary
To ensure you have the smoothest golf holiday possible, it is very useful to have a travel itinerary on hand. This should include information such as…
Do you have a transfer itinerary including pick up times and locations? Or are you maybe renting a vehicle and therefore, do you have your voucher? Make sure you have all of your booking details to hand.
Do you have your transfer itinerary? Including all pick up times and locations?
Make sure you have your accommodation voucher from us! It is also handy to have your booking reference number ready to give to reception should they need it. I would recommend also making a note of the check-in and check-out times for the hotel you are staying at.
Knowing your tee times makes it 10x easier to plan the rest of your holiday, so make sure you have all necessary vouchers for this.
Doing anything extra while on holiday? Make sure you know all the details.
Miscellaneous
Everything Else…
Congratulations, you’ve officially packed all of the essentials for your next golf trip! Now, for the fun extra bits and bobs…
This is essential really.
Or just something to do while you’re relaxing poolside
Want a condensed version of this golf trip packing list to print off and check as you go?
Need inspiration for your next golf holiday destination now that you’ve got your golf trip packing checklist ready to go?
Check out some of our holiday inspiration posts, where you can find lists of ideal destinations for golf holiday types such as…
Then come back here when you’re ready to start packing!
