PACK YOUR GOLF BAG
Introduction
Every golf bag should be stocked with items you’ll need to play golf and keep you comfortable during your round. And just as clubs come in many shapes and sizes, so do golf bags! Functionality is key when selecting a golf bag. Do you plan to walk, ride in a cart or both when you play a round? Do you want to store extra clothing and accessories, such as an umbrella, water and sunscreen?
Answering these type of questions can help determine what bag would best suit your needs. And if you're looking to infuse your personality into the game, this is an opportunity to use color and patterns to make a statement!
Bag Types
A SUNDAY BAG is lightweight and designed to carry just a few clubs. These are ideal for a trip to the driving range or walking a few holes on a par three course.
STAND BAGS have room for a full set of clubs (14) with pockets and pouches to carry your accessories. While a stand bag fits on a riding or pull cart, these bags are equipped with a shoulder strap as well as pop out "legs" to stand your bag upright. Stand bags are typically five pounds or less, which makes this bag a better choice for players that plan to walk the course. The retractable legs allow the bag to remain upright on turf, whereas other bags lay on the ground.
CART BAGS are designed specifically to be carried on a golf cart. Typically six to seven pounds, these bags are configured to provide easy access to all the bag's pockets while remaining strapped to the back of your riding cart or pull cart. Cart bags are not the best option if you plan to walk the course and carry your bag, as they tend to get heavier as you store more accessories.
Golfers who love to travel often invest in a TRAVEL BAG, which is designed to enclose and protect your bag's contents while traveling. Typical features include a padded top to protect your golf clubs, luggage wheels for easy mobility, padded handles for easier handling and an external pocket or two for additional storage. Travel bags are essential to help keep your clubs safe when checking your equipment through airline baggage claim.
What to Pack Besides Golf Clubs
GOLF BALLS
How many balls does it take to play a round of golf? Hint, the answer is not one. If your ball finds its way into the water or woods, you won't be able to continue play. Take at least a dozen!
GOLF TEES
Tees are necessary for your shots with the driver and meant to be broken. A well stocked golf bag includes a handful of tees.
BALL MARKERS
On the green, it is customary for players to mark their ball, and this requires a ball marker. The marker is placed behind the ball, so you can pick up your ball and replace it in the same spot when you're ready to putt. Markers are generally flat objects the size of a coin. In a pinch, a coin can be used.
DIVOT REPAIR TOOL
This is a small item designed to repair a divot mark left by a ball that landed sharply on the putting surface. Ask your instructor to demonstrate how the tool works when you take your putting lesson.
SUNSCREEN
Never leave home without it! It is recommended that you apply a sweat-resistant sunscreen every hour that you're in the sun. Consider a spray applicator so your hands will stay dry and better grip your club.
HATS
It’s amazing how much cooler a hat will make you feel when the sun is beating down. For double duty comfort, spray a bit of BUG REPELLANT on the brim of your hat to ward of insects.
GOLF GLOVE
Why do golfers wear a glove? Often it's to help keep a better grip on the club and prevent callouses. Gloves are made from different materials and meant to be slightly tacky to prevent hands from slipping. A glove is typically worn on the opposite hand of how you play. A right handed player wears a glove on the left hand and a left handed player wears a glove on the right hand.
UMBRELLA
Weather patterns can change dramatically over a round of golf, so be prepared for sudden rainstorms. Umbrellas can double duty in hot weather as well. Shady spots can be as much as 15 degrees cooler than the sun. If you’re spending time walking or waiting on the course, an umbrella will provide instant relief.
CASH
Don't expect that credit cards will always be accepted. Many private clubs only allow charges to a member account, and purchases on the golf course might be cash only. Always have a few dollars on hand for tips, a sandwich at the halfway house and snacks and drinks from the beverage cart.
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Hot Weather Helpers
HYDRATION
Be sure to drink plenty of water, which will stay chilled if your golf bag has a built in cooler. Sorry, alcoholic beverages don’t count towards hydration! It's recommended to have at least one bottle of water for each alcoholic drink.
SNACKS
Pack some light snacks such as water heavy fruits (grapes, watermelon, peaches) as well as nuts and energy bars to keep you from feeling sluggish. Be sure your trail mix is chocolate-free, as chocolate chips will quickly melt in the heat.
SPRAY BOTTLE & PORTABLE FAN
When it gets really hot on the course, create your own mister with a small spray bottle and a hand-held battery-operated fan. If you feel overheated, spritz some water into the fan and cool your face, arms and legs.
GRIP LOTION
For an alternative to a hot leather glove, pack a bottle of "no sweat" grip lotion. Spray some on your hand and it quickly turns powdery to give your hand a nice dry grip on your club.
Useful Extras
Business cards
Golf towel
Lip balm
Hair clips and elastics
Feminine products (the on course restrooms may not be equipped)
Lightweight rain jacket
Pencils to keep score
An all-important zippered pouch to keep your valuables safe.
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