It takes a lot to organize a golf trip. If you're the "leader", you're responsible for finding the location, getting everyone to agree to the location, finding the courses, finding a place to stay, negotiating the price and in some cases, collecting payment. It's a lot of work.
My trip has been set for a while and now it's time for the physical preparation. No, I don't mean working out. I mean packing. I touched on this in a previous post (what to bring vs. what to buy) but this will focus more on actual packing.
What Factors into Packing?
There are a few things that will determine what you'll bring on your trip. First, and probably most obvious, is how long you're going for. Our trip is 4 nights/5 days with a minimum of four rounds of golf. I say a minimum because we pre booked four rounds but usually play an additional round or two if we have time.
Next, for me is the weather. This is one of the elements you can't control but you can prepare for. I've been checking the weather for the previous 10 days and it has changed every day. As of today, the forecast is calling for 80's and sunny until the last day which has a chance of rain. Plan accordingly based on location, time of year, and forecast.
Lastly, your accommodations. If you're staying in a hotel, it's a non issue. We usually rent a house because it's cheaper and in most cases the linens are provided. Check with your booking company or property manager to see if linens are provided. If not, plan in bringing towels, bedding, blankets, etc. Always ask this when booking!
What Did I Pack?
I like to keep it simple but be prepared. I don't want to bring more than a duffle bag and my clubs, especially if I'm flying.
(A quick look at my packing area... better known as my couch)
As you can see from above, I have the basics anyone would think of on a golf trip. My golf shoes, shorts and shirts. A few things you may or may not bring and a couple things you're probably wondering why I'm bringing. Here's a quick rundown:
- Golf Balls: I have no need for 2 dozen golf balls in four rounds (I hope) but someone might forget and it's usually cheaper to buy in advance than at the course.
- Golf Glove: I already have two in my bag but you never know. I like to have the one I'm using and a spare. Now if one rips, I have an extra.
- Something for headaches: It could be from a hangover, the blazing heat or pain of playing 36-holes in a day. I use Advil but stick with whatever your or you doctor tell you
- Shampoo/Soap: If you're in a house, this isn't provided. You can pick it up if you need to but I had an extra bottle.
- A Flask: Why not?
- Reading material: I always bring golf related reading material for down time around the house.
- Golf Equipment: Check your bag, clubs, etc. One year we had a guy forget his golf shoes and he needed to buy new ones. That's a $60+ mistake.
The list above is simply a list of suggestions. If there is something you can't live without, bring it. Just be considerate of the people your sharing a house or hotel room with. I like to keep it simple and bring as little as possible.
The cooler must already be in the trunk....
Posted by: Amusitronix | 09/22/2010 at 11:15 AM