Golf Travel

For the fortunate golfers out there, and yes there is a distinct bitterness coming from my words, the time has come for you to dust off the clubs, pack your suitcase, and head to warmer climes for a well-earned break from winter. In your uncontrollable excitement and desire to ensure all your travel details are taken care off, there are a few things you might want to consider before packing up and leaving the rest of us behind.
Check your balls: Not meant as an anatomy lesson, but taking stock of your white-dimpled brothers is a good idea at this time. Your first instinct might be to load up your golf travel bag with all the Pro Vs you can get your hands on. But take note. Most airlines will charge extra if your bag is over the weight limit and that can be more costly than simply buying a couple of dozen at your destination. The rule of thumb is this: take enough to get your started, say a dozen or so, and if you have room on your carry-on or suitcase, slip a few sleeves in there as well. You also don't want to end up shelling out $75 for logoed golf balls at the course you are playing at (they are counting on your lack of planning). Go online and see what local pro shops are selling golf balls for in the area you will be staying. It may be worth your while to venture out and pick up a few dozen there as well.
Go Fancy: On most resort and high-end travel golf courses, dress code is more than a consideration. It's a must Don't let yourself get into the position where you end up dropping $200 on pants and a proper golf shirt because you weren't prepared for the dress code. Pack a nice pair of pants and a few collared golf shirts to save you the embarrassment, and more importantly, the funds, which you may need to settle up the Nassau debt. Golf is one of the few sports you can play and never really be too dressy. Another good idea is to visit the websites of the courses you will be playing will traveling and pack according to their dress requirements.
Knick Knacks: Your ivory white skin hasn't seen any intense sun rays in awhile so sunscreen is a must. You can purchase 'hands-free' lotion for about $7 a bottle at most golf pro shops. Waiting until you arrive may cost you double. It's also a good idea to grab a few bag of tees (I once paid $10 for a bag of tees that didn't even have enough in them to complete the round), a divot repair tool or two (one for whoever forgets theirs), and a couple of golf gloves. Little odds and ends can add up costing you quite a bit in the long run, money that could be well-spent on a round or two after the golf.