How to Plan a Golf Trip on a Budget (and Avoid Costly Mistakes)

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Planning a golf trip doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Whether you’re dreaming of teeing off at scenic coastal courses or exploring hidden gems in the Midwest, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a first-class golf getaway without paying luxury prices. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan a golf trip on a budget—from choosing affordable destinations to saving on lodging, tee times, and travel gear.

 

 

1. Pick the Right Destination

Some of the best golf experiences come from underrated destinations that cost far less than major resort areas. A few places to check out that are easier on your wallet.

 

  • Branson, Missouri – Big Cedar Lodge has 5 incredible courses

  • South Carolina – Myrtle Beach – tons of good golf packages

  • Maine – Belgrade Lakes & Sugarloaf are top notch mountain golf courses.

  • Michigan – Tree Tops Resort – 4 unreal courses and the BEST par 3 course in the US!
 

 

2. Travel During Shoulder Season

One of the best ways to plan a golf trip on a budget depends on timing. Golf resorts often offer deep discounts during the “shoulder season” — the months just before or after peak travel times.

 

    • Off-season travel can save you on both lodging and greens fees. Make sure to research different times of the year.

    • September and October can be great months for golf in the Midwest and East Coast.

    • February in warmer climates can be a great month for reasonably priced golf packages.

    • Avoid major holidays and tournament weeks when prices skyrocket. Avoid the weeks before, during, and after at any championship courses with PGA, LPGA, or Junior tournaments

 

3. Look for Stay-and-Play Packages

Stay-and-play deals are one of the best-kept secrets for budget travelers. These packages include lodging, golf rounds, and sometimes breakfast or resort credits. Many resorts offer discounts on green fees and lodging when purchasing a package deal.

 

    • Check popular destinations like Pebble Beach, Pinehurst, Bandon Dunes, Scottsdale, Kiawah Island, and Myrtle Beach. These all offer iconic courses and diverse views.
    • Check out our top 5 destinations for a golf trip in 2026 here. 

 

4. Bring Your Own Clubs

There’s nothing worse than going on a golf vacation and playing with somebody else’s clubs. Most club rentals are going to cost you $75+ per round so if you plan on playing more than two rounds, it will be worth your while to bring your own if you’re flying. Shipping golf clubs can be expensive, but there are ways to save:

 

    • If you’re flying, pack your clubs in a hard-shell travel case like these from Amazon. Soft bags are ok but you will run the risk of a club bending or snapping. Hard cases provide much more protection and most have wheels to easily get to and from the terminal to your destination.

 

5. Split Costs with Friends

Golf trips are better (and cheaper) with friends! Splitting accommodation, rental cars, and even golf carts can cut your costs by 40% or more. NOTHING beats a boys (or girls) trip!

 

    • Book vacation rentals with multiple bedrooms instead of separate hotel rooms.

    • Look for full houses that can be rented insead of multiple hotel rooms.

 

6. Don’t Overlook Local Courses

You don’t always have to travel far to have a great golf getaway. Many regions have top-rated public courses that cost a fraction of what destination resorts charge.

 

    • Plan a golf trip on a budget that’s close to home with your family or a few friends. Even traveling an hour away and staying a night or two will feel like a full blown golf vacation at a fraction of the price usually.

    • Plan a “mini road trip” to three or four affordable courses in your area instead of flying across the country. You are most likely an expert in your own area! Go play some new courses that you haven’t made it to yet.

 

7. Save on Flights and Transportation

Use travel rewards or flight comparison tools Expedia.

 

    • Fly midweek for cheaper rates: Flights leaving on Monday and Tuesday are often in lower demand and are cheaper than Friday and Saturday flights. Sundays are also cheaper options usually.

    • Consider driving: Nothing says “golf trip on a budget” more than packing up the car and hitting the road. If your destination is within a day’s reach — gas and mileage often beat airfare for groups of 3–4. Plus, its easier to bring golf gear and clubs.

    • Book in Advance: For domestic flights, aim to book one to three months ahead; for international, three to five months out.

    • Consider Nearby Airports: Check prices for airports near your destination and departure cities.

 

8. Use Rewards Programs

Sign up for loyalty programs like:

 

 

Stacking points across these programs can save you hundreds on future golf getaways.

 

 

Conclusion: You Don’t Need a Luxury Budget for a Luxury Golf Trip

 

With a little planning and smart travel choices, you can enjoy an unforgettable golf trip without overspending. The key is flexibility—be willing to travel during off-peak times, explore lesser-known destinations, and take advantage of packages and loyalty rewards. Start planning your golf trip on a budget today and enjoy more rounds for less.