When it comes to holidays, nothing beats heading to a luxury resort and spending a week (or even two) enjoying the sunshine while playing numerous rounds of golf. But how do you prepare for such a getaway to ensure yours doesn’t come in under par?
Well, packing for such a trip is the same as any other; you need your clothes, your sun cream and your swim shorts but you also need to allow for your golf clubs in the baggage requirements. Here’s a great guide that details which airlines allow you to take your clubs on the flights as part of a standard 20kg allowance or if you need to pay extra. It’s still a good idea to check when you book though, just to be sure.
Alternatively you can hire clubs while abroad, but it’s best to weigh up costs before you decide to do so. Plus, if you’re predominantly golfing on this holiday it’s probably going to be more fun with your own set.
As well as packing your clubs you should also consider taking along spare equipment to ensure you aren’t caught short out on the course. Pack your spare trolley battery, take that extra pack of balls and don’t forget to double up on gloves. Better safe than sorry.
If you are taking your own clubs you might also want to consider taking out golf holiday insurance, which is tailored specifically towards these holidays and covers you should your clubs get lost, damaged or stolen as well as covering non-refundable green fees if you need to cancel your trip.
Next, take a look at your course and read up on what to expect because it might help you decide what to wear and which clubs to take. You also need to know how many holes there are and if it is hilly or flat as well as any hazards to watch out for, such as sand traps and ponds.
Some of the higher end resorts also have dress codes for their courses, so it’s a good idea to check if this is the case. You don’t want to get there and realise you won’t be allowed to play because you’re not wearing formal golf gear and then have to go and buy some from the club shop.
Knowing the climate of the country you’re visiting is also essential. Don’t arrive and realise it’s actually a little too warm for your thick trousers and shirt combo. Do some research beforehand, check the weather forecasts and jump on the plane knowing you’re well prepared for what’s to come.
As well as noting the weather you should also check if any tournaments are taking place on your course. Could you imagine anything worse than turning up to the resort and realising you could have watched some of the greats play if you had only booked to visit the week before? If you’re heading to North America check the PGA tour dates or if you’re travelling to a destination in Europe have a browse on the European Tour site and be prepared to watch some amazing golf if you can get there in time.
Jetting off on a golf holiday shouldn’t require much more effort than your standard visit abroad. Just double check baggage allowances and research your resort before you go!
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