Going away on a spring break golf trip? Being a last minute packer myself and forgetting items on trips often, I thought this list of 7 items golfers forget to pack would be helpful for anyone taking a spring golf trip. If your spring golf trip involves some competition, Jack’s words about being prepared may inspire you too- “I couldn't control Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, Tom Watson or Lee Trevino. The only person I could control was me. The only person I could prepare for events was me. And if I didn't play well, I didn't play well, and I wasn't going to compete.” -Jack Nicklaus.
1) Balls
If you are a Northeasterner like me, I always forget to bring enough golf balls. Since the weather gets pretty cold starting in November, a spring golf trip is most likely the first time I have touched a club in a while and my swing is vulnerable to lose balls. The courses down in Florida especially have a ton of water and losing golf balls is much easier. Make sure to pack a dozen or maybe two.
2) Sunscreen
As a pale Swede, I’ve got some pretty bad sunburns in the past. Make sure to pack a tube of SPF 30 in your bag and check the date to make sure it is not expired! Are you using the same sunscreen that has been in your bag for 2+ years? If so, it doesn’t work.
3) Warm outerwear
Going south to 70 degrees and sunny weather does not necessarily mean you could be experiencing some cold weather. You will need a coat especially for those early morning rounds. Going to somewhere rainy? Get a Proquip rainsuit. The coats are expensive, but you will never need to buy another golf coat again.
4) Cash
Always tip your bartender! You may or may not be aware, but the cart staff at most resort courses rely on tips as a big part of their income. Make sure to bring a few bucks to tip the starters and bag staff.
5) Bathing suit
I’ve purchased a bathing suit on two occasions during golf trips. Even if you are not going to the beach, having a bathing suit for the hot tub after 36 holes of golf could be a lifesaver.
6) Cigar accessories
This is not a necessity for everyone’s golf trip, but having a cutter, matches, and even ordering a few cigars prior to the trip could helps the smokers plan ahead.
7) Advil
Chances are, if you are going on a golf trip with friends, you will be playing a lot of golf, staying up late and waking up early. The guy with advil in the morning after a long night out is always the most popular person on the trip. Bring some advil for on and off the course.
Balls, sun screen, outerwear, cash, a bathing suit, cigar accessories, and advil - Seems so simple right? Hopefully you are more prepared for your next spring break golf trip. If you are joining us for the Nextgengolf Spring Break Open in either Myrtle Beach or Panama City Beach this March, the competition is looking strong and you will need to bring a good golf game!
Anything else to add to the list? Feel free to comment below and send us a tweet - @Nextgolfer
PS - Don’t forget your clothing bag at the airport and only grab your golf clubs from the luggage carousel. My friend Jimmy knows from personal experience :).
