An electric trolley makes walking 18 holes much easier, but it's only as good as its battery. A battery that dies on the 14th hole is no fun. Understanding battery types, charging and storage keeps your trolley running for years.
Battery types
| Lithium | Lead-acid | |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Light | Heavy |
| Lifespan | Longer | Shorter |
| Charging | Faster | Slower |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Maintenance | Low | Needs careful charging |
Range
Batteries are often sold as 18-hole or 36-hole. Hilly courses, heavy bags and cold weather reduce range. Choose a battery with extra capacity if you play hilly courses or 36 holes. Read playing 36 holes in a day.
Charging
- Use the correct charger.
- Charge after each round, following manufacturer guidance.
- Charge at room temperature in a dry place.
- Don't leave lead-acid batteries discharged.
Winter storage
- Follow manufacturer advice on storage charge level (lithium batteries are often stored partly charged).
- Store indoors, dry and away from extremes of temperature.
- Check and top up charge periodically.
Read winter golf.
Signs of a failing battery
- Shorter range than before.
- Trolley slowing on hills.
- Battery not holding charge.
- Physical damage or swelling: stop using it and seek advice.
Travelling
Airlines restrict lithium batteries by capacity, and many trolley batteries can't be carried on planes. Check airline rules, or hire a trolley at your destination. Read travelling with golf clubs.
Lithium vs lead-acid compared
| Lithium | Lead-acid | |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Light, often 2–4 kg | Heavy, often 10–15 kg |
| Lifespan | Many hundreds of charge cycles | Fewer cycles; often a few seasons |
| Charging | Faster, no memory effect | Slower; must be fully recharged after use |
| Winter storage | Store partly charged | Keep topped up to avoid damage |
| Cost | Higher upfront | Lower upfront |
| Air travel | Restricted; check rules | Usually not permitted |
For most golfers, lithium is the better long-term buy because of its weight and lifespan, but a well-maintained lead-acid battery can still give good value.
How to get the most range
- Choose the right capacity: 18-hole batteries suit flat courses; 27- or 36-hole batteries suit hilly courses, heavy bags or playing twice in a day.
- Lighten your bag: remove unnecessary balls, bottles and gadgets. Read what to keep in your golf bag.
- Inflate tyres where applicable and keep wheels clean and free-running.
- Use moderate speeds: maximum speed drains the battery faster.
- Avoid extreme cold, which temporarily reduces capacity.
Charging dos and don'ts
- Do use the charger supplied or recommended for your battery.
- Do charge in a dry, ventilated place at room temperature.
- Do charge lead-acid batteries soon after every round.
- Don't leave a battery on charge for weeks unless the charger is designed for it.
- Don't charge a battery that is damaged, swollen or very hot.
- Don't let lithium batteries sit completely flat for long periods.
Safety
Batteries store a lot of energy. Check cables and connectors for damage, keep terminals clean, never short-circuit the terminals and don't use a battery that has been crushed or soaked. Dispose of old batteries at a proper recycling point, never in household waste.
When to replace
Replace the battery when it no longer completes your usual round, takes much longer to charge, or shows physical damage. Keep the purchase date and warranty details; many batteries are covered for a period or a number of cycles.
Do you need an electric trolley?
Electric trolleys suit golfers who walk regularly on hilly courses, or who have back, knee or hip problems. Read walking vs riding a golf cart and golf and lower back pain.
Frequently asked questions
How long does an electric trolley battery last?
Typically several years for lithium, depending on use and care.
Should I charge my trolley battery after every round?
Usually yes; follow your manufacturer's guidance.
Can I take a trolley battery on a plane?
Often not; check airline rules for lithium batteries.
Why does my battery run out early?
Cold weather, hilly courses, heavy bags and ageing reduce range.
Can I leave my trolley battery in the car?
Avoid leaving it in a very hot or freezing car for long periods. Store it indoors.
Is a 36-hole battery worth it?
If your course is hilly, you carry a heavy bag or you sometimes play twice a day, yes.
The bottom line
Choose a battery with enough range, charge it correctly, store it properly in winter and check airline rules before flying. For more on trolleys, read golf bags, carts and trolleys.