How to Plan the Ultimate Golf Road Trip

There’s something timeless about the open road — windows down, playlists loaded, and your favorite clubs packed in the trunk. A golf road trip combines the thrill of travel with the love of the game, offering the freedom to explore stunning landscapes, legendary fairways, and hidden gems along the way.

Whether you’re crossing states or cruising the coastline, planning the ultimate golf road trip takes more than just picking a few courses on a map. It’s about balance — blending play, rest, and adventure. Here’s how to design a trip that’s as unforgettable as the holes you’ll play.

1. Map Out Your Golfing Route

The first step in planning your golf road trip is choosing your destination path. Decide how far you’re willing to travel and how many rounds you want to fit in. Then, research the best golf courses along that route — from iconic championship layouts to local favorites.

For example:

• East Coast (USA): Pinehurst, Kiawah Island, and Sea Island.

• Scotland & Ireland: St. Andrews, Royal Dornoch, and Ballybunion.

• Australia’s Great Ocean Road: Barnbougle Dunes and Thirteenth Beach.

Try to space your rounds so you’re not rushing from course to course. Aim for one round per day to leave room for travel, rest, and exploration.

2. Choose the Right Travel Companions

A great road trip isn’t just about where you go — it’s about who you go with. Invite fellow golfers who share your pace, attitude, and sense of adventure. A balanced group makes all the difference, especially when decisions need to be made about detours, meals, or tee times.

Look for people who:

• Appreciate early mornings and long drives.

• Are flexible and open to new courses.

• Keep a positive vibe, even after a rough round.

The right crew turns every stop into a story worth retelling.

3. Pack Smart — and Light

Packing for a golf road trip can be tricky. You’ll want your essentials without overloading the car.

Here’s a quick checklist:

• Golf clubs and balls: Bring your go-to set and enough balls for multiple rounds.

• Golf shoes: Waterproof if possible — conditions can vary.

• Clothing: Lightweight, moisture-wicking polos, a rain jacket, and a cap.

• Tech gear: Rangefinder, GPS watch, and chargers.

• Extras: Reusable water bottle, sunscreen, gloves, and a small first-aid kit.

If you’re flying part of the way, invest in a durable travel golf bag with padding or hard-shell protection.

4. Mix Iconic Courses with Hidden Gems

Everyone wants to play the famous courses — but some of the most memorable rounds happen at lesser-known local gems. When planning your route, mix well-known destinations with affordable, under-the-radar courses.

For example:
Play a major stop like Pebble Beach, then follow it up with a local favorite that surprises you with charm and challenge. This balance keeps your budget in check and your trip interesting.

5. Set a Realistic Budget

Golf road trips can range from budget-friendly to luxury depending on your choices. Consider the following costs:

• Green fees: Research in advance; some premium courses require booking months ahead.

• Accommodation: Hotels, golf resorts, or even golf-friendly Airbnb options.

• Food and drinks: Factor in clubhouse dining or local restaurants.

• Fuel and transportation: Share driving responsibilities to cut costs.

A simple spreadsheet can help you manage expenses and avoid surprises later.

6. Plan for Rest Days

It’s tempting to play every day, but burnout can sneak up quickly. Schedule rest days to explore nearby attractions, relax, or even practice at a driving range instead of playing a full round.

Use those breaks to enjoy local culture — from whisky tastings in Scotland to coastal hikes in California. These pauses refresh your body and make every tee time more enjoyable.

7. Capture the Journey

A golf road trip is as much about memories as it is about scorecards. Bring a camera or use your phone to capture the scenery, post-round celebrations, and road trip moments.

Consider keeping a travel journal or vlog — it’s a great way to relive your adventure and share it with others.

8. Be Flexible

Even the best plans can change — weather delays, maintenance days, or unexpected detours happen. Build flexibility into your itinerary so a rainout doesn’t ruin your trip. Have backup courses or local attractions ready in case plans shift.

Remember: sometimes, those unplanned moments lead to the best stories.