I’ve been golfing since I was eight, and while I’ve golfed my share of courses around the world, most of my rounds have been in my home state.  Up until last year, I’d never planned a trip exclusively for the sake of golf, and when friends or friends’ husbands would plan golf getaways, I was always intrigued as far as what went into planning, packing, and playing away from home.

Then I started doing golf media trips. To say I was clueless about preparing for a golf trip is an understatement.  Let’s just say, I’m glad there’s no footage of me on my first trip – traipsing through the airport with my dad’s golf travel bag (circa 1995), lugging a giant green suitcase that was as green as I was.  I quickly realized there’s an art to golf travel.

So now, with four golf press trips under my belt, I feel it’s my duty to share what I’ve learned.

1) ITINERARY – Obviously choosing a destination is a logical starting point. Maybe you’ve got a place and/or course in mind. But if all you know is that you want to get out of Dodge and onto a course (any course), then I’d suggest doing some research. There are many ways to find the perfect stay and play. Obviously, you can search online – looking for golf getaways or even golf packagers that could arrange your entire trip for you. Instagram is full of golf content.  But to get a great idea of your options in golf travel – hit a local golf expo. These mostly winter events are full of representatives from golf travel companies, resorts & courses, tourist boards, plus a gazillion vendors and golfers. You can come home with your body’s weight in golf magazines and brochures, showing just how many options exist. Speaking of tourist boards, they’re an invaluable resource when it comes to golf, recreation, dining, lodging, etc. Also – don’t be shy. Start asking around – “Where would you go for a golf getaway?”  Word of mouth is a fabulous way to find new spots.

2) CLUB TRANSPORT– Once you’ve nailed down your destination, it’s time to think of getting your clubs there. If you’re traveling by car, it’s a no-brainer – throw your clubs in the trunk and skip to  #3. But if you’re flying – you’ve got three options. You can always rent clubs at your destination – but that might get costly, and you might prefer playing with your own clubs.

Another option – send your clubs ahead of you via a service like Ship Sticks. An advantage to Ship Sticks is that it saves the hassle of carting your clubs to and from the airport, and it can be cheaper in the long run if your airline adds extra fees.

If you prefer to fly with your clubs, be sure you have a sturdy travel bag and carefully pack your clubs to avoid them banging around in transport. If you’re buying a travel bag for the first time, I’d recommend going to a golf store to see if the bag works for you. Some are heavier than others, and you want to be happy with the one you choose.

When you pack, take advantage of the travel case’s pockets for golf items and save room in your suitcase, allowing you to pack a carry-on versus a full Titanic-sized trunk like I carried.  Speaking of carry on bags – you might want to throw your golf shoes in yours in case your clubs get lost in transit. At least you’ll still have your shoes for your first round.

3) OUTFITS AND PACKING – while we’re talking about packing extras, don’t forget to throw in some clothes for cooler weather or rain. Tuck those away in your bag before you travel, so they’re there if you need them. As far as outfits go, I know, I know… it’s hard to limit clothing if you’ll be playing golf, working out, and doing other activities at your destination. As someone told me on my last trip (when I’d packed roughly 17 outfits) “Pack like a guy. Start with the last day – decide what you’ll wear, pack it, then work your way up to day one.” The key is… thoughts like, “I’ll pack this just in case” or “maybe I’ll wear these” aren’t allowed.

Also, when packing in general, stay uber organized by using packing cubes. There are so many moving pieces when it comes to golf travel – you’ve got a suitcase, golf bag, travel bag, purse and maybe a water bottle. By keeping like-items together and strategically stored where you’ll need them (i.e. golf items in the golf travel case), you’ll feel better and minimize the risk of losing an item or your mind. I should know, I’ve done both.

4) GETTING THE BEST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK – Now, I get it that golf trips can be expensive. Golf in general, can be expensive.  But there are many deals in the form of packages – with resorts, courses, or even through state tourism. Alabama is a great example of this –  you can customize an experience along the popular Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail and affordably play a variety of great courses while you stay at some very nice resorts. This is a great spot to mention that the RTJ Trail is also a Spa Trail – which would make a nice add on to your stay. Consider checking with your resort for spa availability on the premises or nearby. Other ways to reduce costs – grab your breakfast on the go versus eating at your hotel, check if the course you’re playing has tiered rates allowing for cheaper rounds if you play later in the day, look for happy hour spots near your hotel, and ask around for specials. It pays to plan ahead and be creative with your itinerary.

5) DON’T FORGET THE BASICS – Even though you’re on vacation, take care of yourself out on the course.  Hydrate (maybe double, if you wake up feeling dehydrated after the previous night’s fun), pack snacks in your bag, and be sure to apply plenty of sunscreen. Nothing can ruin a vacation like a bad sunburn or raging headache. Also, schedule some downtime so you don’t run yourself ragged and need a vacation after your vacation. Make pool time, spa time, and relaxation a priority.

6) REMEMBER WHY YOU’RE THERE – This is a vacation, not a qualifier for The Tour. That means if you don’t play well, don’t sweat it. Take a deep breath. Relax.  Most importantly, laugh a lot and enjoy the people you’re with, the change of scenery, and the exposure you’re getting to a new place in the world.

You’re there to have fun! Bon voyage & hit’em straight!