What Makes Golf Travel So Special?
There’s something magical about combining travel with your love for golf. This golf travel guide covers top destinations, essential gear, and smart planning tips to help you tee off in paradise with confidence.
Top Golf Destinations Around the World
Scotland: The Birthplace of Golf
Scotland isn’t just where golf began — it’s where legends are born. St. Andrews, Carnoustie, Royal Dornoch… the names alone are enough to give a golfer goosebumps. The charm? Raw, windy, and brutally honest courses that demand creativity and grit.
Ireland: Dramatic Cliffs & Friendly Fairways
Ireland mixes jaw-dropping landscapes with warm hospitality. Think Lahinch, Ballybunion, or Royal County Down. One moment you’re battling winds off a cliffside, the next you’re in a cozy pub, sipping Guinness and talking birdies with locals.
United States: Variety Galore
From the lush greens of Augusta to the desert challenges in Arizona, the U.S. is a golf buffet. Want ocean views? Pebble Beach. How about mountain terrain? Head to Colorado. Looking for world-class resort experiences? Florida’s got you covered.
Australia: Hidden Gems & Sunshine Swings
Royal Melbourne and Kingston Heath are must-plays for serious golf travelers. Add in beaches, koalas, and killer coffee — Australia gives golf trips a laid-back, Down Under flavor.
Best Golf Courses to Add to Your Bucket List
St. Andrews Links (Scotland)
Old Tom Morris would nod in approval. The Old Course is the ultimate pilgrimage for any golf nut.
Pebble Beach (California, USA)
Iconic. Jaw-dropping. Expensive. Worth. Every. Penny.
Cape Kidnappers (New Zealand)
Clifftop fairways that look like they’re dangling off the Earth. Bring extra balls — the wind’s no joke.
Leopard Creek (South Africa)
A bucket-list African safari with golf as the bonus. Watch out for crocodiles (seriously).
Planning Your Golf Trip Like a Pro
Start with Your Goals
Are you chasing legendary courses? Looking to relax? Competing in a tourney? Your goal sets the tone for everything else.
Choose the Right Season
Don’t just book based on your vacation calendar. Courses have peak seasons, and prices — and crowds — rise accordingly. Do your homework and aim for shoulder seasons when possible.
Book Tee Times Early
Popular courses fill up fast. Like, months in advance fast. Lock in those tee times the moment your trip is confirmed.
Mix Iconic and Hidden Courses
Sure, the big-name courses are awesome. But the lesser-known local gems? They often have charm, fewer crowds, and cheaper fees. Variety keeps the trip fresh.
Travel-Friendly Golf Gear: What to Pack and Why
Golf Travel Bags: Soft vs. Hard Case
Hard cases offer better protection (especially for air travel), while soft cases are lighter and easier to handle. If you love your clubs like family, go hard shell.
Lightweight Stand Bags
Ditch the bulky cart bag for travel. Lightweight stand bags are easier to lug around — especially on walking-only courses.
Versatile Apparel
Layer up. Weather changes fast on coastal and mountain courses. Pack moisture-wicking shirts, windbreakers, and a solid waterproof jacket.
Shoes That Travel Well
One word: comfort. You’ll walk a lot more on unfamiliar courses. Spikeless golf shoes are comfy, versatile, and airport-friendly.
Essential Tech Gear
- Rangefinder or GPS Watch
Know your distances — especially on new layouts. - Portable Charger
Long days on the course can drain your battery faster than your swing speed. - Bluetooth Speaker
For chill rounds with your crew (if the course allows it).
How to Fly with Golf Clubs Without a Headache
Use a Sturdy Travel Case
Protect those precious sticks like they’re royalty. Hard-shell cases are best for air travel.
Remove Clubheads if Possible
Some drivers and woods allow this — makes packing safer and less awkward.
Add Padding (Towels, Clothes)
Extra protection never hurts. Wrap clubs in towels or clothes to minimize movement.
Use a Stiff Arm or Club Protector
This little device absorbs the brunt of pressure if your bag is tossed. A lifesaver, literally.
Saving Money on Your Golf Vacation
Bundle Up
Look for travel packages that include tee times, lodging, and meals. Resorts often give solid deals if you book everything through them.
Travel Off-Peak
Mid-week, shoulder seasons, or off-season bookings can save you hundreds — sometimes thousands.
Use Golf Networks or Memberships
Clubs like Troon, GolfPass, or even credit card perks can offer discounted rates and priority access.
Solo Golf Travel vs. Group Trips
Going Solo: Peace & Focus
Love the quiet? Want to play at your pace? Solo golf travel is therapeutic. Just you, your clubs, and the course.
Group Trips: Banter & Bonding
Traveling with golf buddies adds fun, friendly competition, and shared stories. Just be sure to organize tee times and lodging early to avoid chaos.
Where to Stay: Resorts vs. Local Lodging
Golf Resorts
Convenience, luxury, and amenities — right by the course. Perfect for stay-and-play packages.
Local Hotels or Rentals
Better for exploring beyond golf. Often cheaper and more flexible if you’re playing at various nearby courses.
Dining & Off-Course Adventures
Eat Like a Local
Part of the fun is trying local food. Whether it’s haggis in Scotland or fish tacos in Cabo, lean into it.
Sightseeing & Culture
Mix in museums, nature hikes, or beach time. Your trip isn’t just about scorecards — it’s about stories.
Health Tips for Golf Travel
Stay Hydrated
Sounds simple, but between travel, sunshine, and rounds, dehydration sneaks up fast.
Stretch Daily
A stiff back ruins golf — and your vacation. A quick morning stretch keeps your swing smooth.
Protect Your Skin
Sunscreen. Hat. Sunglasses. Repeat.
Dealing with Jet Lag & Travel Fatigue
Adjust Before You Travel
Shift your sleep schedule a couple of days before you fly. Even 1–2 hours helps.
Hydrate on the Flight
Skip alcohol, load up on water. Your body (and your swing) will thank you.
Walk It Off
After arrival, take a walk instead of crashing. Helps reset your body clock and keeps you loose.
Making the Most of Each Round
Arrive Early
Warm-up time = fewer first-hole jitters. Plus, you’ll get a feel for the course vibe.
Play Smart
Unfamiliar courses can be sneaky. Play conservatively, pick targets, and avoid hero shots (unless you’re feeling lucky).
Enjoy the Scenery
Look around. Snap photos. You’re golfing in paradise — don’t forget to take it all in.
Keeping a Golf Travel Journal
Why It’s Worth It
Courses blur together over time. A simple journal — scores, funny moments, course quirks — keeps the memories alive.
What to Record
- Course name and date
- Highlights and funny flubs
- Who you played with
- Local food, drinks, and discoveries
You’ll thank yourself years later when you flip through those pages.
Conclusion
Golf travel is more than a hobby — it’s a passport to unforgettable adventures, new friendships, and next-level courses. With the right planning, gear, and mindset, every trip can be a hole-in-one. Whether you’re chasing coastal fairways or teeing off in the mountains, the journey is just as rewarding as the game itself.
FAQs
- What’s the best time of year to plan a golf trip?
The best time depends on your destination. Spring and fall are ideal for many regions thanks to mild weather and fewer crowds. - Is it cheaper to rent or bring your own clubs when traveling?
If you’re particular about your equipment, bring your own. Otherwise, many resorts offer high-quality rentals, which may be easier and cheaper for short trips. - Can I bring golf balls and tees in my carry-on?
Yes, golf balls and tees are TSA-approved for carry-ons. Just leave the divot tools or club repair kits in checked baggage. - Are golf travel packages worth it?
Absolutely, especially for big-name resorts. Bundled deals can save money and streamline planning. - How do I find hidden gem courses in a new location?
Check golf forums, Reddit threads, or local pro shops. Sometimes the best rounds come from word-of-mouth tips.