Going away on any kind of trip requires a certain amount of preparation, but when you're packing for a golf trip, it really pays to plan ahead. There are certain things that are essential if you want to get the most out of your golf trip, but don't worry - if you've never packed for a golf trip before, we'll talk you through it. Today we're going to look at what to pack for a local golf trip (in the UK) and a golf trip abroad. Safe to say, you might be slightly limited in what you can take if you're traveling overseas, but it shouldn't impact your trip if you plan ahead of time. So, let's get into it...
Packing for a UK golf trip
If you're planning a golf trip to one of the amazing golf courses here in the UK, it pays to be prepared. We all know that British weather has a tendency to change at the drop of a hat, so it's vital that you come prepared and ready for all climates. Most people tend to book their UK golf trips through the spring, summer, and early autumn months because that's when you can (somewhat) guarantee comfortable temperatures. That being said, there are plenty of opportunities for winter golf trips too!
If you plan to travel to the golf course in the car, you should have plenty of space to pack all the essentials, some extra items in case of emergencies, and even some 'non-essentials' like that bottle of prosecco you've been saving for a special occasion. If you're planning to use public transport for your golf trip, you might want to limit your checklist to the essential items only.
Comfortable golf clothing
Before you head off on your golf trip, it's wise to do some research into the golf course you're visiting. Some golf courses have guidelines or a dress code that they expect all golfers to follow. If this is the case, it's important you pack a variety of clothes that meet the dress code - especially if you're going to be staying & playing for a few days.
Typical golf dress codes include smart trousers, shorts, or a skirt with a collared shirt, white socks, and golf shoes. Most golfers will also bring a cap or sun hat of some kind to prevent glare on sunny days. Don't worry - if any of these garments are missing from your current wardrobe, you can often pick them up in the golf course's shop.
If you're playing at a golf course without a dress code, you can be a little more flexible about what you wear. We highly recommend that you layer up your clothing so that you can adapt your outfit to suit the weather. For example, wear a T-shirt or polo shirt but be sure to bring a lightweight jumper or jacket with you in case it gets cold. It's also wise to bring something waterproof to protect you when it inevitably starts to rain!
Golf clubs
You're not going to get very far on your golf trip without a set of golf clubs. If you're a keen golfer, you might want to invest in your very own set that you can take with you on all of your golf trips. Most golf clubs are designed with a certain skill level in mind, so be aware of this when you're choosing a set. If you're not ready to invest in golf clubs of your own just yet, don't worry - you should be able to hire golf clubs from the golf course you're visiting. If you're worried about this, be sure to contact the golf course ahead of time.
Golf balls
Don't be one of those people who turns up at the golf course without any golf balls. Chances are, you're going to get through a fair few golf balls during your trip, especially if you're prone to losing them. So be prepared and make sure that you pack plenty of golf balls in the car so that you're never caught short during a game.
Regular clothes
Besides your golf clothes, which you'll be wearing when you're on the course, you should also remember to bring some other comfortable clothes to wear in the evening. Whether you're going on a golf trip with friends, family or business partners, you want to make sure you've got something appropriate to wear for the evening meal. If you're planning to eat at the golf course, be sure your clothes fit their specified dress code. If you're eating at a local pub or restaurant, smart casual clothes should suffice.
Home comforts
If you've got a bit of extra space in the car, be sure to take some home comforts and entertainment with you. Packing a cool box full of snacks is a great way to save money on the way to the golf course - rather than eating at service stations every few hours. In addition, you could also pack some luxuries such as your favourite pillow to make your trip a little more comfortable. For those of you who are braving a golf trip with the kids, packing some different forms of entertainment for them will not only be beneficial on the journey but throughout your trip too. We always say, if you've got extra space in the car, why not use it? Bringing special items and home comforts can make your golf trip all the more memorable.
Packing for a golf trip abroad
If you're going away on holiday for a golf trip, your packing checklist might look a little bit different. You're probably going to be limited on what you can take unless you're traveling on a ferry and taking your car with you. For golfers who are planning a golf trip by plane or train, packing light is essential. You don't want to be carrying an uncomfortable amount, especially when foot roo & cabin space is limited. Most airlines will have a hard limit on the weight of the luggage you can take with you, so it's best to streamline your usual golf trip bag and keep things fairly simple.
Golf clothes & regular clothes
While you might pack a wide range of golf clothes and regular clothes for your UK golf trip, it's best to plan a single outfit for each day when you're traveling abroad. Planning out an entire outfit and limiting the unnecessary items in your bag will instantly bring the overall weight of your luggage down. It's important to note that you may need some specialist clothing items, depending on where in the world you're going to play golf. A few clothing items you may need abroad that you might not need in the UK are:
- Sunglasses or sun hat
- Thermal underlayers
- A snood
- Gloves (in addition to your regular golf gloves)
- A hat and scarf
Essential golf gear
Taking your own golf gear abroad can be really amazing, but there's also a risk that things will get lost or damaged in transit - so bear this in mind. If you've got a set of golf clubs or a pack of golf balls that are dear to your heart, you might want to leave these at home and pack less valuable equipment instead. If you are going to take your prized golf kit, make sure you can check it or stow it securely & invest in professional carry cases. This will give your golf equipment the best chance of making it there and back in one piece.
If you're concerned about taking all of your golf gear, or if you'd prefer to pack light, you should find out whether the golf course you're visiting offers an equipment rental service. This is a great way to reduce the amount of luggage you need to take with you, while still being able to play with a professional kit.
Other items you might need
There are a few specialist items that you might want to add to your luggage if you're planning a golf trip abroad. These are things that you don't typically need when you're in the UK, but they do come in handy when you're playing golf in particularly hot or cold environments. These are things like sun cream & insect repellent.
Here at gimmeballs, we offer a huge variety of golf balls at affordable prices so you can stock up ahead of your adventure. You can also purchase personalised golf balls, which will make great gifts for any golfer friends who are always going on golf trips.
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