Golf carts are now a familiar sight, especially in the USA and at resorts worldwide. But for most of golf's history, players walked. The cart's story is one of convenience, accessibility and changing golf culture.
Early carts
In the first half of the 20th century, some golfers began using motorised carts, often because of mobility issues. They were novelties at first.
The post-war boom
From the 1950s, carts became widespread in the USA, especially at resort and residential golf developments, and golf course design began to include cart paths. Read the history of golf in America.
Electric and petrol
Both electric and petrol-powered carts developed, with electric models now common thanks to better batteries. Read buying a golf cart.
Technology
- GPS screens showing distances and hole layouts.
- Fleet management to enforce cart rules.
- Comfort and accessories. Read golf cart accessories.
Accessibility
Single-rider adaptive carts allow golfers with disabilities to play, sometimes onto greens without damaging turf. Read adaptive golf.
The walking debate
Many golfers and clubs, particularly in Britain and Ireland, value walking as part of golf's tradition and exercise. Read walking vs riding a golf cart and golf cultures around the world.
A timeline
| Era | Development |
|---|---|
| Early 20th century | Golf is played on foot, with caddies carrying bags |
| 1930s–1940s | Early motorised carts appear, often adapted for golfers with limited mobility |
| 1950s | Commercial electric carts begin to appear on courses, especially in the US |
| 1960s–1970s | Carts become widespread at resorts and in hot climates; cart paths are built |
| 1980s–1990s | Fleets grow; manufacturers improve batteries and comfort |
| 2000s | GPS screens and course information systems arrive on carts |
| 2010s–today | Lithium batteries, single-rider carts, fleet management technology |
How carts changed course design
Carts changed the way courses were built and run:
- Cart paths were added, sometimes running alongside every hole.
- Longer distances between greens and tees became acceptable on resort and real-estate courses.
- Cart revenue became an important income source for many courses.
- Turf wear created new maintenance challenges, leading to rules such as "paths only" in wet weather. Read golf cart etiquette.
Single-rider carts and access
Single-rider carts allow golfers with mobility challenges to reach the ball and, in some designs, to play from a seated or supported standing position. They've opened the game to more people. Read adaptive golf.
Carts around the world
- USA: carts are standard at many courses, especially resorts and in hot regions.
- Britain and Ireland: walking remains the tradition, with buggies used mainly by those who need them.
- Asia: carts with caddies are common.
- Australia: a mix of walking and carts.
Read golf cultures around the world.
The future
Expect more electric, lighter and smarter carts: better batteries, GPS-controlled speed limits in sensitive areas, and in some places, remote-controlled and follow-me trolleys that let golfers walk without carrying. Read future of golf and buying a golf cart guide.
Frequently asked questions
When were golf carts invented?
Early motorised carts appeared in the first half of the 20th century, becoming common from the 1950s.
Why are carts more common in the USA?
Resort and residential golf, hot climates and course design all encouraged cart use.
Are golf carts electric or petrol?
Both exist; electric is common today.
Did carts change golf course design?
Yes, with cart paths and more spread-out layouts in some places.
Why are golf carts called buggies in some countries?
It's simply regional language. "Buggy" is common in Britain and Ireland; "cart" in the US.
Are golf carts bad for courses?
They can damage turf, especially when wet, which is why courses use paths and cart rules.
The bottom line
The golf cart turned from novelty to standard equipment in many places, changing course design and making golf more accessible. For cart courtesy, read golf cart etiquette.