Golf vacations are an excellent place to relax, improve your game, and hang out with good friends. However, golf can be expensive, and going over your budget might cause you some stress. Whether you’re a beginner and this is your first time planning a golf trip or an advanced golfer looking to play as much golf as you can without breaking the bank, there are steps you can take to plan an enjoyable, budget-friendly trip.
Here are five tips for planning a golf trip on a budget:
Pack Your Snacks and Non-Alcoholic Drinks
On average, a round of golf typically takes four and a half hours. During this time, you will need something to eat and drink to keep you energized and hydrated. If you’re golfing on a budget, buy your favorite snacks and drinks from a local grocery store rather than from the shop or beverage cart at the golf course. Golf courses tend to inflate their prices, so pack some refreshments in your bag to save money.
Play with Used Clubs and Balls
You don’t need to spend an arm and a leg on brand-new clubs and balls, especially if you’re golfing for fun or are a beginner. Multiple websites sell gently used golf equipment for a fraction of the original price. You might also find good deals on used equipment in local thrift stores, flea markets, and yard sales. It’s common for people to donate or sell their old gear, so it wouldn’t hurt to take a look if you have the time.
Golf with a Bigger Group
On your next golf trip, invite more people than you typically would and form a larger group. If you separate your crew into smaller groups of three or four, most golf courses will allow you to book tee times together and possibly give you a group discount. Another benefit of golfing with a larger group is it gives you more leverage to negotiate lower prices for hotel rooms.
Choose Your Location Wisely
The easiest way to save money on travel expenses is to golf locally or at a central point for all group members. However, if you want to get out of town, there are many affordable golf courses in Pinehurst, NC. Not only are they located in beautiful areas, but most of these courses offer vacation package deals. Make sure you do your research and talk to everyone in your group before deciding so you can ensure everyone’s needs are met.
Play 9-Hole Rounds
If you plan on visiting multiple golf courses during your trip, playing a few 9-hole rounds is a no-brainer if you want to save money. On average, playing a 9-hole course costs $10-$20 less than an 18-hole course. Not only do you save money, but you also save time which will allow you to visit more courses, and at the end of the day, you still get to play golf.
Try some of these tips the next time you plan a golf trip. With the money you save, you can use it for other areas of your life or, better yet, for more rounds of golf!