Anticipation for a golf trip is one of the best feelings, but it can be quickly followed by the stress of figuring out what to bring. A well-packed bag frees you to focus on sinking putts and enjoying the journey, while a forgotten item can throw you off your game before you even tee off. This guide breaks down exactly what you need, from the obvious must-haves to the small extras that make a monumental difference.
Let’s start with the gear that actually allows you to play the game. Getting this part right sets the foundation for a stress-free trip. Forget one of these, and you’re starting your vacation with a trip to an overpriced pro shop.
This sounds obvious, but the details matter. Your clubs are your tools, and they need to arrive safely. Invest in a durable, well-padded travel bag. A hard-shell case offers maximum protection, while a high-quality soft bag with extra padding around the club heads (like The Club Glove) is often lighter and easier to handle. Here's a tip: use a stiff-arm shaft protector inside your bag. It’s an inexpensive rod that extends to be longer than your driver, taking the impact if your bag is dropped and protecting your most expensive clubs from snapping.
Thinking you’ll just buy balls at the destination is a common mistake that costs you time and money. Pro shops at destination courses almost always charge a premium. Pack at least two-dozen balls, even if you don't think you’ll need that many. Here’s why: playing a new, challenging course puts pressure on your game. The last thing you want is the mental burden of "I can't afford to lose this ball." Bring a mix of your favorite premium balls for when you’re feeling confident and some less-expensive ones for those tight, water-heavy holes. This little mental trick can free you up to swing away without fear.
Your feet are your foundation in the golf swing and your transportation for five miles a day. Comfort is everything. If you have space, bringing two pairs of golf shoes is a pro move. This allows you to rotate them, giving one pair a full day to dry out if you encounter a damp morning or get caught in the rain. Nothing is worse than slipping soggy shoes on for a second straight day. At a minimum, make sure the one pair you bring is well-worn, comfortable, and thoroughly waterproof.
Looking the part helps you feel the part, but on-course apparel is about much more than style. It's about comfort, performance, and preparing for any weather the course throws at you.
Check the weather forecast for your destination and pack accordingly, but always bring options. Plan on one outfit per day of golf, plus one extra. A good rule of thumb is packing a mix of shorts and pants. Some prestigious clubs have stricter dress codes that may require pants, and even on warm days, a cool morning Bandon Dunes could call for long trousers.
This might be the single most underrated packing tip. Pack at least two pairs of socks for every day of golf. A fresh pair of socks at the turn on a hot, humid day can make you feel like a new person. It’s a small detail that has a huge impact on your comfort over the last nine holes. Choose cushioned, moisture-wicking golf socks over standard cotton ones.
Protecting yourself from the sun an absolute must. Pack at least two hats. This way, if one gets sweaty or soaked in a rain shower, you have a dry backup. A wide-brimmed "bucket" hat offers the most protection and is a fantastic choice for sunny or rainy conditions.
Do not leave home without a high-quality, fully waterproof rain suit (both jacket and pants). Even if the forecast shows 0% chance of rain, weather can change in an instant, especially in coastal or mountain regions. Having reliable rain gear in your bag means you’ll never have to worry. A cheap, "water-resistant" windbreaker is not enough - it will soak through in a real downpour. Invest in real GORE-TEX or a similar waterproof technology. You will thank yourself immensely when you're the only one dry in your group.
Most golf trips involve early tee times. Always pack at least one quarter-zip pullover or a vest. They provide that extra layer of warmth without restricting your swing. A vest is particularly useful as it keeps your core warm while leaving your arms completely free.
This is the category of small items that, if forgotten, cause the most annoyance. They live in the pockets of your golf bag but are fundamental to playing the game smoothly.
Much like socks, you need extras. The summer heat or a sudden rain shower can ruin a leather glove in minutes. Pack at least three to four gloves. Keep one or two in their original packaging to ensure they stay fresh until you need them. A dry, tacky glove is fundamental for a secure hold on the club.
These things have a magical way of disappearing. Before you leave, raid your old golf bags and drawers and create a consolidated pouch of these essentials. You can never have too many. Grab a handful of unique ball markers - it’s always fun to have a cool marker when playing with new people.
Playing an unfamiliar course without knowing your distances is a recipe for frustration. A laser rangefinder gives you precise distances to the flag, while a GPS watch offers quick, at-a-glance numbers to the front, middle, and back of the green. Whichever you prefer, don't forget to pack it and its charger. Double-check that it’s fully charged before your first round.
These items round out a perfectly prepared golf bag:
A golf trip can be physically demanding. Taking care of your body is just as important as having the right gear in your bag.
You’ll be exposed to the sun for up to five hours a day. Bring a sport-specific, sweat-resistant sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Don't forget lip balm with SPF protection as well. Reapply at the turn. Your future self will thank you.
Your back, hands, and feet will be tired after a few rounds. Pack a small kit with the following:
Half the fun of a golf trip happens after the last putt drops. Pack comfortable and appropriate clothing for dinners, sightseeing, or just relaxing at the hotel.
Pack a couple of pairs of non-golf pants or jeans, some casual shirts or polos, and at least one nicer outfit for a steakhouse dinner. Check if your destination resort has a dress code for its restaurants. A pair of casual shoes like loafers or clean sneakers is also a good idea.
After a long day of walking, you’ll appreciate having comfortable clothes to lounge in. Don’t forget swim trunks if the resort has a pool or hot tub - great for tired muscles! - and a comfortable set of clothes for relaxing in the room.
Having everything from this list packed and ready means you can focus on what matters most: hitting great shots and enjoying every moment on the course. Being thoroughly prepared removes the little stressors and distractions, allowing you to fully commit to your game from the first tee to the celebratory final putt.
For those times on the course when A-plus preparation isn't enough to solve a tricky lie or a confusing tee shot, a little guidance can be a game-changer. We designed our app, Caddie AI, to be that expert in your pocket, 24/7. Whether it’s giving you a smart strategy for a tough par 4 or analyzing a photo of your ball in the rough, it provides the instant advice you need to play with more confidence and make smarter decisions on every hole.
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