A really great golf getaway is one of those pleasures in life that may come up once in a lifetime—maybe twice—if you’re lucky. So now that you’ve got commitments from your golf buddies, you’ve got the go-ahead to start planning, and you’re ready to put together a fantastic getaway that everyone will be talking about into the next decade, what are some of the mistakes you can avoid making?
Mistake #1: Not Planning Far Enough in Advance
Depending on your golfing destination, you will most likely need to book tee times at least five or six months in advance, which will ensure that you get to play on the courses you want to at the time of year you plan to go. Also, booking far in advance allows you to find better airfare and accommodation rates, which leaves more money for fun. While you can still throw together some sort of golfing holiday in a weekend, you will have to take what you can get.
Mistake #2: Planning Via Committee
If you’ve got a buddy group going along with you, getting everyone’s input is definitely important. But at some point, planning by committee leads to disagreements, miscommunication, and even anger. Early on, pick one person to head up the planning after you’ve solidified your budget. That person might be a whiz at organization or finding the best deals or getting everything taken care of in a timely fashion. Make that person the Point Man or Woman and refer all final decision making to them.
Mistake #3: Failing to Tap All Possible Trip Planning Resources
Planning trips can get very complicated when multiple people are involved. Don’t overlook golf trip planning services—especially those that specialize in golf getaways for groups. If you decide to plan the trip on your own, use apps like Tripit by forwarding all confirmation emails to the app to create accurate itineraries and handy travel reminders. Other apps, such as Roadtrippers gives you a heads up on nearby recommended food establishments, accommodations, attractions, and more when you’re heading overland by car.
Mistake #4: Spending Too Much on Accommodations
Hotels aren’t the only option when staying somewhere for several days. For groups, it can often make more sense to rent a condo or vacation house, depending on the makeup of the group and how comfortable people would be sharing a room or a bed. For those who plan to party, a condo or house is also a good option as you will have access to a kitchen. Planning your golf getaway during the tourist off-season can also yield some hefty discounts on all types of accommodations (it also means the links aren’t crowded!).
Mistake #5: Paying Airline Carrier Prices for Hauling Your Sticks
Golf bags and cases are a pain to haul around at airports—not to mention the hefty fees airlines charge for them! In addition, you’ll most likely be forced to visit a second luggage carousel for your golf clubs after picking up your bags, which means you’ll spend a lot more time waiting around.
Instead, get your golf clubs shipped by a golf club shipping service and have them waiting for you at your destination. When you’re ready to head home, arrange to have them shipped back to your doorstep. Easy-peasy! Some club shipping services come in far below carrier costs, which saves you money and aggravation.