Pro Tips for Packing: Your Golf Vacation Checklist

For avid players, a golf vacation is the best trip of all. But for many, the sweet feeling of anticipation carries a little anxiety about what to bring.

Just as you prepare to hit a golf shot by focusing on the target, it’s important to figure out what to bring well in advance of departure. Whether it’s a family outing, a couple’s retreat or a buddies’ trip to TPC Danzante Bay, preparation is key when it comes to packing.

The good news is, we’ve done the hard part for you! Here’s a checklist that every golfer should consult before heading to the airport.

The Essential Golf Vacation Packing List

1. Golf Shoes. Depending on how many rounds you plan to play, bring one or two pairs. Comfortable golf shoes, spiked or spikeless, are an absolute must for enjoying yourself on the course. They provide the traction and stability you’ll need to swing and play with confidence.

2. Golf Balls, Etc. Even if you’re a straight hitter, pack enough ammo. There are more than a few places at TPC Danzante Bay where a stray shot will be irretrievably lost. Figure two sleeves (six balls) per round, minimum. Be sure to bring ball markers, a pitch mark repair tool and a golf towel. The club provides complimentary logo tees, but pack your own if you’re partial to what you use at home.

3. Golf Gloves. Much like golf balls, buying new gloves at a world-class resort is always going to be more expensive than your home source. In addition, your size might not be available. Minimize the chance of an unpleasant surprise. Pack two pairs of gloves.

4. Golf Clubs & Travel Case. This is a personal choice. If you’re only planning to play one round of golf, consider renting clubs. TPC Danzante Bay offers top-of-the-line PXG golf equipment. If you intend to play two or more rounds and wouldn’t dream of teeing it up without your own sticks, by all means bring your own set. Just be advised that you’ll need to place them inside a sturdy, reliable travel case (hard shell or soft shell), preferably one with wheels. It is absolutely essential that you protect your clubs! Airlines have a mixed track record when it comes to handling golf equipment. As an extra precaution, unscrew the heads of your driver and fairway woods and tuck them away in your golf bag. If that’s not possible, consider investing in a ‘stiff arm,’ a strong pole inserted inside the golf bag that’s designed to absorb the impact of a heavy blow, protecting club heads and shafts.

5. Golf Gadgets. The golf carts at TPC Danzante Bay are equipped with state-of-the-art GPS systems, but bring your own rangefinder or GPS watch if you’d rather consult your own distance device. Pack a small Bluetooth speaker if you like to listen to music on the course.

What to Bring to Protect Yourself in the Sun

6. Sunscreen and Lip Balm. Loreto is a subtropical desert. It’s warm and sunny year-round. Extended exposure to the sun can pose serious health risks to the skin. Golfers should pack SPF 30-plus broad-spectrum sunscreen and apply it 20 minutes before teeing off and every two hours thereafter. Also bring a lip balm with a SPF 15 or 30 rating.

7. Cap or Hat. It’s the rare golfer these days who plays without a cap or a hat. Baseball-style caps are the most popular, but consider a wide-brimmed hat if you want to better protect your face, ears and neck.

8. Sunglasses. Eye protection is a must in the sun. Several manufacturers make specialty golf sunglasses with lightweight frames and polarized lenses that provide 100% UV protection. They shield the eyes from harmful sunrays—and prevent squinting.

9. Socks. Stock up on high-quality athletic socks. Blisters can ruin a trip.

10. Golf Togs. For men, comfortable collared golf shirts are de rigueur. Consider lightweight shirts with moisture-wicking fabric. Choose between Bermuda-style shorts or slacks. Remember to bring a woven belt that stretches. Women have more options: golf shirts (collar optional), dresses, shorts, skorts, slacks, etc. Sun-sensitive golfers should pack breathable sun sleeves to protect their arms.

Final tip: If you’re prone to muscle soreness after golf, pack a good supply of Ibuprofen (such as Advil) to take before and after the round. Also, consider booking a specialized full body treatment at the award-winning Sabila Spa, the centerpiece of Villa de Palmar’s Wellness Center.