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Trip Planning Guide

We've talked to some of the best planners around.  Those that have been at it for years, and those that are just naturally good.  If you're a normal person like the rest of us, this guide should help make sure you don't screw it up for your crew.

You can also check out the:

Grip It and Trip It Planning Checklist

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Don't freak out, this is the longest one.

Budgeting is an overarching theme throughout the planning of a trip. Golf trips, like most travel, can range in costs depending on the goals and expectations of the group. For our group, we prefer voting for many of these items, but if you prefer to be in charge, have at it.

Step 1: Define the Basics of Your Trip

Before you can start budgeting, you need to set the foundation for your trip. Consider the following:

Choose a Destination (more on this in later sections)

The location you pick will largely determine the cost of the trip. Are you planning to visit a high-end resort like Pebble Beach, or are you looking for a budget-friendly local getaway, or maybe it's on the bucket list for non-golf related reason? Research different destinations and compare golf course rates, accommodations, and travel expenses.

Need some help?

Determine the Trip Duration

How many days will your trip last? A weekend trip will have different costs than a week-long golf vacation. Keep in mind that some courses or resorts may offer discounts for multi-day stays, so planning the right length can help you save money. Remember it needs to be long enough to get the crew warm, but we're not trying ware out and be completely worthless for the next six months.

Confirm the Number of People Going

The more people you have, the more you can potentially split costs on lodging and transportation. However, more people can also mean added complexity in planning and coordination. We all know Jared doesn't agree with anything, and Blaine's a doctor so he's bougie (the trip wouldn't be the same without them). Confirm your group size early so you can book accommodations and tee times accordingly.

Step 2: Identify Major Expenses

Once you've defined the basics, it's time to break down the primary costs associated with your golf trip.

Golfing Costs

Golf-related expenses will likely be the biggest part of your budget. Here’s what to account for:

Every golf course charges a fee to play a round, and prices can vary widely. Research the rates at your chosen courses and make sure to check if they have different fees based on the day of the week or time of day. Some courses offer twilight rates (discounts for later tee times) that can save money.

If you're not bringing your own clubs, you'll need to rent them. Cart rentals are also common at many courses, though some may allow you to walk. Look at rental prices in advance to decide if bringing your own gear is more cost-effective.

If you're playing at a premium course that requires a caddy, factor in both the base fee and expected gratuity. Caddy costs can range from $50 to $200 per round, depending on the course.

If your group wants to warm up at a driving range or play an extra practice round (or they haven't played in eight months), include these costs in your budget.

Travel Costs

The cost of getting to your destination and moving around once you're there is another big part of the budget. Consider:

If you’re flying, look up ticket prices early and consider using travel points or discounts. If you’re driving, estimate gas costs based on distance and fuel prices.

Will you need a rental car to get around? If so, research rental rates and factor in insurance, parking fees, and fuel. If you’re staying near the golf course, consider ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft instead of renting a car.

Some resorts or cities have toll roads and expensive parking fees, so make sure to check ahead of time.

Lodging Expenses

Where you stay can make a big difference in your overall budget.

A hotel might be more convenient, but an Airbnb could allow you to split costs more efficiently among the group. Compare prices and amenities before booking.

Some hotels and resorts have hidden fees, such as resort fees, cleaning charges, or extra costs for additional guests. Always check the fine print.

Food and Drinks

Eating and drinking during your trip can add up quickly, especially if you’re dining out frequently. Plan for:t.

Estimate how many meals you'll be eating out vs. preparing yourself. If your lodging has a kitchen, you can save by buying groceries and making some meals.

Golf course food and drinks tend to be more expensive than what you’d find off-site. Consider bringing your own snacks and beverages if allowed.

If you plan on going out for drinks, concerts, or other activities after golfing, include these costs in your budget.

Miscellaneous Costs

Don’t forget about extra expenses that might not be obvious upfront:

Be honest, you're about to lose 25 balls at the coastal course. Will you need new golf balls, gloves, or attire before the trip? These costs add up.

If you're visiting a well-known golf course, you might want to buy a souvenir like a shirt or hat. What's the point of going if you can't show off.

Always set aside a little extra for unexpected expenses like lost luggage, course fees you didn’t anticipate, last-minute plan changes, or trips to ER due activities at the Airbnb.

Step 3: Plan for Splitting Costs

If you're traveling with friends, it's important to figure out how costs will be shared.

Use an Expense Tracking App

Apps like Splitwise or Venmo make it easy to track shared costs and ensure that everyone pays their fair share.

Collect Deposits for Big Expenses

We know you trust them, but remember how many times Aaron left his wallet at home going out to eat? If you're making reservations that require upfront payment, consider collecting deposits from your friends ahead of time to avoid getting stuck covering everything yourself.

Keep a Clear Record of Expenses

There's no reason to allow things to get dramatic. Make a shared spreadsheet listing major expenses and who's paying for what. This helps avoid confusion later.

Step 4: Look for Ways to Save

If you're loaded, move along. To all others, here's some helpful tips.

Book Early for Discounts

Many golf courses, hotels, and airlines offer early-bird pricing. The sooner you book, the better deals you’re likely to find.

Take Advantage of Golf Packages

Some golf resorts offer stay-and-play packages that include lodging, tee times, and even meals at a discounted rate. These can be a great way to save money while getting a premium experience.

Consider Twilight Rounds

Playing later in the day often comes with reduced rates. If your group is flexible, twilight rounds can help cut down on green fees.

Use Travel Rewards and Discounts

If you have a travel rewards credit card, check if you can redeem points for flights, hotels, or rental cars. Some golf clubs or memberships also offer discounts on tee times.

Choose Budget-Friendly Dining Options

Instead of eating out for every meal, consider cooking some meals at your lodging or finding local spots that offer good food at reasonable prices.

Step 1: Define Your Group’s Priorities

Ok, we've beat this one to death.

Do you want to play multiple rounds per day or just a few relaxed rounds?

Do you prefer ocean views, desert landscapes, or mountain backdrops?

Do you want year-round warmth, mild temperatures, or a mix?

Will your group want nightlife, sightseeing, or non-golf activities?

Step 2: Consider Logistics & Accessibility

Travel Costs & Flight Availability

Check flight prices and availability from your home airport. Are there direct flights, or will multiple layovers be required? If driving, is the location within a reasonable distance for your group?

Course Proximity & Transportation

Are the courses spread out, or are they close together? Will you need a rental car, or is Uber/Lyft sufficient? Are stay-and-play packages available at resorts to reduce travel time?.

Best Time to Visit

Research peak seasons and weather conditions. Some destinations (like Arizona) are best in winter, while others (like Scotland) have unpredictable weather year-round.

Bonus: For Your Consideration

Just a few friendly suggestions.

Pebble Beach, CA (Stunning ocean views, high-end experience)
Pinehurst, NC (Historic, multiple top-ranked courses)
St. Andrews, Scotland (The "Home of Golf")
Bandon Dunes, OR (Spectacular links golf)
Kiawah Island, SC (Oceanfront championship courses)

Myrtle Beach, SC (Over 90 courses, affordable options)
Orlando, FL (Great public courses, golf packages available)
Phoenix/Scottsdale, AZ (Desert golf, winter deals available)
Gulf Shores, AL (Hidden gem with scenic, affordable courses)
San Antonio, TX (Great mix of affordability and quality)

Scottsdale, AZ (Great weather, top-tier desert courses)
Palm Springs, CA (Luxury golf, winter sunshine)
Orlando, FL (Year-round golf with family-friendly attractions)
Puerto Rico (Tropical golf with resort options)
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico (Oceanfront golf with a luxury vibe)

Las Vegas, NV (Great desert courses + world-class nightlife)
Miami, FL (Tropical golf + vibrant nightlife scene)
New Orleans, LA (Unique courses + legendary nightlife)
Scottsdale, AZ (Golf + upscale nightlife)
Nashville, TN (Fun golf and a lively music scene)

Hawaii (Breathtaking ocean views, volcano golf)
Lake Tahoe, CA/NV (Mountain golf with incredible scenery)
Whistler, Canada (Golf with a backdrop of snowcapped peaks)
Ireland (Links golf + castles and cliffs)
New Zealand (Spectacular landscapes, remote golf courses)

Once you have an idea of what your group wants, start looking for courses that fit those preferences. Here’s how:

Step 1: Determine Your Group’s Preferences

Before diving into course options, it’s important to consider what kind of experience your group is looking for. Ask yourself and your friends:

Again, we've beat this one to death.

Are you all experienced golfers who want a challenge, or do you need a mix of beginner-friendly courses?

Do you prefer links-style courses, parkland courses, or resort courses?

Do you want to maximize rounds per day or prioritize relaxed play and sightseeing?

Step 2: Research Course Options

Once you have an idea of what your group wants, start looking for courses that fit those preferences. Here’s how:

Search Online

Use sites like GolfNow, TeeOff, Supreme Golf, or Greenskeeper to find courses and reviews.
Check course websites for pricing, tee time availability, and photos.

Read Reviews and Ratings

Websites like Golf Digest’s Top 100 Courses provide rankings of premier golf destinations.

Golft Digest Top 100

Consider Local Recommendations

Reach out to golf pros at local courses near your destination for their recommendations.

Step 3: Evaluate Course Features & Conditions

Look at yardage, slope rating, and course layout to see if the course fits your group’s skill level. If the group has a mix of skill levels, find courses with multiple tee boxes to accommodate everyone.

More on Yardage & Slope Ratings

Check recent player reviews to see if greens, fairways, and bunkers are in good shape. Some courses may have aeration, overseeding, or renovations—check maintenance schedules.

Resort courses may take longer to play due to high traffic. Private or semi-private courses may offer a quicker, less crowded round.

If part of your trip’s appeal is playing at bucket-list courses, pick places with iconic holes or stunning scenery (e.g., oceanfront, desert, or mountain courses).

Step 4: Factor in Logistics & Convenience

Distance Between Courses & Lodging

If you're playing multiple courses, check the drive time between them. Staying near a golf resort can reduce travel time and allow for more rounds.

Amenities & Extras

Does the course have a driving range, putting greens, or quality clubhouse? Are there good dining options on-site or nearby?

Walking vs. Riding

Some courses require carts, while others are walking-friendly. If you prefer to walk, check if pushcarts or caddies are available.

Booking tee times in advance is key to ensuring you get to play at your preferred courses without last-minute stress.

Step 1: Research Courses and Availability

By now, you should have already decided where you want to go. In consideration of courses:

Choose Your Courses

Are you looking for championship courses or something more relaxed?

Green fees can vary wildly, so check rates before making decisions.

Make sure courses are close enough to your lodging to avoid long commutes.

Check Tee Time Availability

Many golf courses allow you to book tee times online, but some may require phone reservations. Research:

Most courses have a booking section with availability.

Websites like GolfNow, TeeOff, or Supreme Golf often offer discounted tee times.

If online booking isn’t available, call the course directly to ask about availability.

Step 2: Determine the Best Time to Play

Tee time selection is important for both price and playing conditions. Consider:

Less crowded, cooler temperatures, and better course conditions, but often the most expensive.

Can be more affordable but might be the hottest and slowest part of the day.

Significantly cheaper but may mean playing fewer holes if it gets dark.

If you want to play multiple rounds in a day, book an early morning tee time and then a second round in the late afternoon.

Step 3: Make Reservations as Early as Possible

Popular courses can fill up weeks or even months in advance, especially for prime weekend slots. Here’s when to book:

High-Demand Courses (Pebble Beach, TPC Sawgrass, St. Andrews, etc.): Book 3-6 months in advance

Mid-Tier Courses: Book 4-6 weeks in advance.

Local/Public Courses: Booking 1-2 weeks ahead is usually sufficient, but check course policies.

Step 5: Confirm and Prepare for Your Tee Time

Get a Booking Confirmation

If booking online, keep the confirmation email handy. If booking by phone, ask for a confirmation number.

Call a Few Days Before Your Round

Verify your tee time and any course rules (dress code, cart policy, etc.). Check if there are any course maintenance schedules that might affect play.

Arranging accommodations for a golf trip is an important part of planning, as it affects your budget, convenience, and overall experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose and book the best lodging for your trip.

Step 1: Determine Your Group’s Lodging Preferences

Yes, again.

Do you want to stay on-site at a resort or near multiple courses?

Does everyone want their own room, or are shared accommodations okay?

Do you need a kitchen, hot tub, game room, or on-site restaurants?

Will your group want access to nightlife, beaches, or other attractions?

Step 2: Choose the Best Type of Accommodation

Depending on your group size and budget, different lodging options may work better than others.

Golf Resort Stay-and-Play Packages

Resorts often offer packages that include accommodations + rounds of golf at a discounted rate. Staying at a resort means easy access to tee times, practice facilities, and amenities like spas and restaurants.

Best For: Groups who want convenience, premium service, and a luxury golf experience.
Cost: Can be expensive but often includes perks like free replays and breakfast.

Vacation Rentals (Airbnb/VRBO)

Renting a house or condo can be more affordable than a hotel, especially for larger groups. Offers shared spaces like a kitchen, backyard, or game room for group hangouts. Look for rentals near golf courses to minimize travel time.

Best For: Groups of 4+ who want more space and the ability to cook meals.
Cost: Can be cheaper than a hotel, especially when splitting costs.

Hotels Near Golf Courses

Standard hotels provide flexibility and location options if you’re playing at different courses. Check if the hotel has partnerships with local courses for discounts.

Best For: Small groups or those who don’t need extra space.
Cost: Varies, but mid-range hotels ($100-$200/night) are common.

Arranging travel for a golf trip requires careful planning to ensure your group arrives on time, with their clubs, and within budget. Here’s a step-by-step guide to organizing transportation for your trip.

Step 1: Decide on Travel Method & Book

First, determine the best way for your group to get to your destination based on distance, budget, and convenience.

Driving

Best For: Trips within a few hours or when transporting a lot of gear.
Benefits: More flexibility, no baggage fees, and easy club transportation.
Considerations: Gas costs, parking fees at hotels/courses, and carpooling.

Flying

Best For: Long-distance trips or destinations with limited driving options.
Benefits: Faster travel time, access to top golf destinations.
Considerations: Cost of flights, baggage fees for clubs, and transportation upon arrival.

Step 2: Transporting Golf Clubs

Option 1: Bringing Your Own Clubs

✔ Check airline baggage policies – Most charge $25-$50 each way for golf clubs.
✔ Use a quality travel bag – Hard-shell or padded soft cases protect clubs in transit.
✔ Pack strategically – Add towels, clothes, or bubble wrap for extra cushioning.
✔ Ship clubs ahead – Services like Ship Sticks or FedEx deliver clubs directly to your hotel or course.

Option 2: Renting Clubs at the Course

✔ Best if flying to avoid baggage fees.
✔ Saves hassle but may limit club selection.
✔ Costs $40-$80 per round at most high-end courses.
✔ Tip: Call the course in advance to confirm rental availability and pricing.

Step 3: (If Flying) Arrange Ground Transportation

Once you arrive, consider how your group will get around.

Best if playing multiple courses in different locations. Ideal for groups of 3-4+ people to split costs. Ensure the vehicle has enough trunk space for clubs.

Best for groups staying at a golf resort with courses nearby. No need to worry about parking or designated drivers. Can be expensive if traveling far between courses.

Best for large groups (8+ people). Some golf destinations offer group transportation packages.

Step 4: Create a Travel Itinerary for Your Group

You didn't do all this work for nobody to know what's going on. Finish strong.

✔ Flight details (airline, departure/arrival times, confirmation numbers).
✔ Car rental or shuttle info (pickup location, reservation details).
✔ Hotel check-in/check-out times.
✔ Course tee times and locations.
✔ Local restaurants or activities planned.

Tip: Share the itinerary via Google Docs or a group chat so everyone is on the same page.

Choosing format, celebrations, trophies, and punishments.

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