Renting golf clubs is a great option for beginners trying the game, travellers who don't want to fly with clubs and golfers whose clubs are delayed. Quality varies, though, so it helps to know where to rent and what to check.
Where to rent
- Golf courses and pro shops.
- Resorts. Read how to choose a golf resort.
- Driving ranges. Read first time at the driving range.
- Rental services that deliver to hotels or airports.
What to check
- Set make-up: driver, woods or hybrids, irons, wedges and putter. Read what clubs to carry.
- Condition: grips, faces and shafts.
- Shaft flex suited to your speed. Read the golf shaft flex guide.
- Left- or right-handed. Read golf for left-handed golfers.
- Women's and junior sets.
- Bag included.
Renting vs bringing your own
| Rent | Bring your own | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Fee per round or day | Airline fees and insurance |
| Convenience | No transport | Familiar clubs |
| Performance | Unfamiliar clubs | Fitted clubs |
| Best for | Short trips, beginners | Longer trips, regular golfers |
Read travelling with golf clubs.
Tips
- Book ahead for premium or left-handed sets.
- Bring shoes, glove, balls and tees.
- Hit a few balls on the range first.
- Check damage before you leave.
What rental sets usually include
| Item | Typically included? |
|---|---|
| Driver, woods or hybrids | Yes |
| Irons and wedges | Yes, often 5–9 iron, pitching and sand wedge |
| Putter | Yes |
| Bag | Yes |
| Balls and tees | Sometimes, or sold separately |
| Glove | Rarely |
| Trolley or cart | Usually extra |
Choosing the right rental set
- Ask for your hand: left-handed sets are less common, so request one when booking. Read golf for left-handed golfers.
- Shaft flex: many rental sets come in regular flex; ask for stiff or senior if you need them. Read golf shaft flex guide.
- Women's and junior sets: ask in advance; these are lighter and shorter. Read women's golf clubs guide.
- Premium vs standard: many venues offer an upgraded set of current models for a higher fee.
Checking a rental set
Before you head to the first tee:
- Count the clubs and check you have a putter.
- Inspect grips: slippery, worn grips are common on old sets. Bring a glove.
- Check heads and shafts for damage.
- Note the condition with the staff, so you aren't charged for existing damage.
Rental costs and how to save
Prices vary from a few dollars at municipal courses to a significant daily fee at resorts. Ways to save:
- Book online in advance, where discounts are sometimes offered.
- Ask about multi-day rates for trips.
- Share a set with a partner on a pitch-and-putt or short course.
- Compare with airline fees for bringing your own clubs. Read travelling with golf clubs.
When it's time to buy
If you're renting more than a handful of times a year, it may be cheaper to buy a starter set. Good second-hand clubs are also widely available. Read buying golf clubs on a budget and how to choose golf clubs.
Frequently asked questions
Can I rent golf clubs at most courses?
Many courses and resorts offer rentals; check in advance.
Are rental clubs any good?
Quality varies; premium sets are often available.
Is it cheaper to rent or fly with clubs?
For short trips, renting is often cheaper.
Can I rent left-handed clubs?
Often, but book ahead.
Can I rent clubs for a lesson?
Most coaches and ranges provide clubs for beginners' lessons. Ask when booking.
What if I break a rental club?
Normal wear is usually accepted, but damage may be charged. Check the terms before you play.
The bottom line
Renting clubs is convenient for beginners and travellers. Book ahead, check the set and bring your own small kit. For more, read golf travel packing list.