Golf trips with a big group, whether a society tour, a stag trip or an annual outing with friends, can be the highlight of the golfing year. They also involve a lot of organisation: money, tee times, transport, rooms and personalities. Here's how to plan a large group golf trip that runs smoothly.
Step 1: Organise the organisers
- Lead organiser: books and decides.
- Treasurer: collects deposits and payments.
- Competition secretary: formats, scores and prizes.
- Transport lead.
Step 2: Agree the basics
- Dates and length: long weekend or full week.
- Budget range: agree it before choosing a destination.
- Destination: choose somewhere with several courses close together. Read how to plan a golf trip.
- Numbers: multiples of four make groups easier.
Step 3: Money
- Collect deposits early to confirm commitment.
- Set payment deadlines in line with supplier deadlines.
- Agree cancellation rules for the group.
- Use a shared expenses tracker.
- Consider insurance. Read golf travel insurance.
Step 4: Tee times
- Book blocks of consecutive tee times.
- Ask about group rates, deposits and cancellation terms.
- Consider shotgun starts at quieter courses for very large groups. Read shotgun starts explained.
Read how to book tee times.
Step 5: Accommodation and transport
- Accommodation close to the courses, or a resort with on-site golf. Read stay-and-play packages explained.
- Rooming list: agree who shares early.
- Transport: a minibus or coach with space for clubs keeps everyone together and avoids drink-driving.
Step 6: Competition
- Simple, fair formats: Stableford, team scrambles or team pairs matches. Read team golf competitions explained.
- Handicaps: agree allowances in advance. Read handicap allowances explained.
- Prizes: a trophy, a wooden spoon and novelty prizes. Read golf trophies and prizes.
Step 7: House rules
- Pace of play and ready golf. Read pace of play.
- Dress codes at each course.
- Behaviour: respect courses, clubhouses and other guests.
- Payment for shared costs.
Using a tour operator
For complex or international trips, a specialist operator can handle bookings. Read golf tour operators.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I book a group golf trip?
Several months, and longer for popular destinations or peak seasons.
How do I handle payments for a large group?
Collect deposits early, set deadlines and use a shared expenses tracker.
What is the best format for a group golf trip competition?
Stableford and team formats are popular; agree handicap allowances in advance.
Should I use a tour operator for a group trip?
For complex or overseas trips, it can save a lot of time.
The bottom line
A great group golf trip needs clear organisation, early commitment, consecutive tee times, good transport and a fun competition. For shorter trips, read golf weekend breaks.