From Tee Time to Wine Time: Golf Travel Tips for Beginners

Golf trips don’t have to be serious. They don’t require perfect swings, impressive scorecards or knowing every rule in the book. At their best, golf getaways are about fresh air, laughter, good company and yes, the very welcome promise of a drink at the end of the round.

If you’re new to golf, travelling to play can feel exciting and a little nerve-wracking. New course, unfamiliar faces and that quiet worry of “what if I slow everyone down?” Take a deep breath. You’re allowed to enjoy golf exactly where you are.

Here’s how to make your first golf trip relaxed, fun and very much worth saying yes to.

Pick a Destination That Feels Welcoming

Not every golf destination suits beginner players and that’s okay. Look for places that prioritise enjoyment over intensity.

Beginner-friendly golf trips often include:

Resort or lifestyle courses with a relaxed atmosphere
Scenic courses where the views distract you from overthinking
Destinations with great food, beaches, spas or walking trails

Golf can be part of the trip without being the entire focus. A destination that offers options makes the whole experience feel a bit lighter.

Pack for Comfort, Not Perfection

Packing for a golf trip doesn’t mean packing your entire wardrobe or your entire golf bag.

A simple approach works best:

One or two outfits you feel confident moving in
Layers for changing weather
Comfortable golf shoes you’ve already worn
Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses

Here is an outfit idea with pieces that look cute, are easy to pack and will arrive wrinkle free.

SHOP NOW ON AMAZON

When it comes to clubs, you have options. Renting is completely acceptable and often very convenient. But if you prefer playing with your own clubs (and many beginners do), bringing them along is easier than ever with a proper golf travel bag.

SHOP NOW ON OGIO

Whichever you choose, the goal is the same: feel comfortable, prepared and relaxed enough to enjoy your time on the course.

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Choose Tee Times That Match Your Energy

Early mornings might sound productive, but they’re not always the most relaxed option. Mid-morning or late-afternoon tee times are often calmer and less rushed.

When booking:

Ask when the course is usually quieter
Avoid competition or member-heavy times
Consider starting with 9 holes instead of 18

A golf trip should feel like a holiday, not an early-morning test of endurance.

Forget the Scorecard (Seriously)

This is not the moment to suddenly decide you need to play “well.”

New courses come with new challenges and that’s part of the fun. Keep your focus on enjoying the round rather than counting every shot.

Helpful reminders:

Celebrate the good shots
Pick up your ball when needed
Laugh at the not-so-good ones

Confidence on the course has very little to do with ability and a lot to do with mindset.

Know Just Enough Etiquette to Relax

You don’t need to memorise the rulebook to feel comfortable playing away from home.

A few basics go a long way:

Be ready when it’s your turn
Keep pace with the group ahead
Let faster groups play through if needed

That’s it. Most golfers are far more focused on their own game than on yours.

Make Space for the Best Part of the Day

Some of the best moments on a golf trip happen after the final putt.

Plan time for:

Lunch or drinks on the terrace
Sharing stories from the round
Enjoying the setting without rushing off

The memories aren’t made in the score, they’re made in the moments.

Enjoy Golf on Your Own Terms

Golf travel as a beginner doesn’t have to feel intimidating. It can be social, relaxed and genuinely fun. Whether you play nine holes, take plenty of breaks or head straight for the clubhouse afterwards, you’re doing it right.

From tee time to wine time, golf trips are about enjoying where you are, who you’re with and the experience as a whole.

Cheers to golf that feels good 🍷⛳