A golf road trip, driving from course to course, is one of the most enjoyable ways to discover golf. You can play a variety of courses, explore towns and countryside along the way and travel at your own pace. Planning the route and pace carefully is the key. Here's how.
Choosing a route
- Clusters: pick areas with several courses close together, such as coastal links regions or resort areas.
- Loop or one-way: loops avoid long drives back; one-way trips may need a car drop-off.
- Variety: mix course styles and scenery.
Ideas: read west of Ireland golf road trip, golf in Scotland, golf in Wales, golf in the Carolinas and golf in California.
Pacing
| Day type | Plan |
|---|---|
| Golf day | Morning round, lunch, afternoon drive of up to two to three hours |
| Travel day | Longer drive with sightseeing |
| Rest day | No golf, explore or relax |
Avoid driving long distances after 36 holes. Read playing 36 holes in a day.
Booking
- Book highlight courses well ahead. Read how to book tee times.
- Leave flexibility for weather and discoveries.
- Book accommodation near the next day's course.
Packing the car
- Space for clubs: check the car's boot capacity, especially with several golfers.
- Travel bags or soft cases fit more easily. Read travelling with golf clubs.
- Golf essentials: read golf travel packing list.
Security
- Keep clubs out of sight in the boot.
- Take clubs inside overnight.
- Check insurance for theft from vehicles. Read golf travel insurance.
Driving abroad
- Check licence requirements and local driving rules.
- Allow extra time on narrow rural roads.
- Don't drink and drive.
Sample routes
| Route | Length | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Scottish east coast | 7–10 days | Historic links towns linked by short coastal drives |
| Irish west coast | 8–10 days | Links golf, cliffs and small towns. Read golf in Ireland |
| US Southeast | 10–14 days | Georgia, the Carolinas and Virginia. Read golf in the Carolinas |
| Pacific Northwest | 8–10 days | Coastal and forest courses. Read golf in the Pacific Northwest |
| Northern Spain | 8–10 days | The Basque coast to Galicia. Read golf in northern Spain |
Budgeting for a road trip
- Fuel and tolls: calculate distances in advance and add a margin.
- Car hire: choose a car big enough for clubs and luggage. Check one-way drop-off fees if you won't return to the starting point.
- Accommodation: booking ahead in peak season saves money; mid-week stays are often cheaper.
- Golf: look for multi-course passes on golf trails or regional cards.
- Food: a cool bag with water and snacks keeps costs down on long drives.
Planning the daily rhythm
A sustainable rhythm for most golfers:
- Play in the morning, drive in the afternoon.
- Keep drives under two or three hours on golf days.
- Schedule a rest day every three or four days.
- Stay two nights in some places rather than moving every day.
Driving safety
- Don't drive tired after an early tee time and a long round.
- Alcohol: don't drink and drive after the 19th hole. Read caffeine, alcohol and golf.
- Take breaks every couple of hours.
- Know local rules if driving abroad, including speed limits and permit requirements.
Group road trips
For groups, consider a minivan or two cars, agree on a driving rota and share costs through an app. Read golf trips for large groups.
Frequently asked questions
How much driving is too much on a golf road trip?
On golf days, aim for no more than two to three hours of driving.
Should I book all tee times in advance?
Book the key courses in advance and leave some flexibility.
Is it safe to leave golf clubs in a car?
Not overnight, and keep them out of sight during the day.
What's a good length for a golf road trip?
Five to ten days, with a rest day in longer trips.
How many courses should I play on a road trip?
On a week-long trip, four to six rounds with rest days usually works best.
Can I fit golf clubs in a small hire car?
Two bags usually fit in a medium car; for more, book an estate, SUV or minivan.
The bottom line
A golf road trip combines variety, scenery and freedom. Choose a route with course clusters, keep driving short on golf days, book the highlights and keep your clubs safe. For trip planning, read how to plan a golf trip.