Make your golf vacation one to remember

If you want to make your next golf vacation one that you will enjoy, here are some tips gained from 40 years of traveling to such destinations as Scotland, Ireland, Spain, Morocco, Costa Rica, Mexico, Hawaii and the Caribbean.

No matter where you are going, even if golf carts or caddies are readily available, I recommend taking a lightweight golf bag. Sure, those big staff bags look impressive, but you also have to handle the bag a lot yourself at the airport and hotel.

Another necessity is a sturdy golf bag cover, maybe even one of the hard covers. We are  all aware that baggage handlers do not always treat them gently. Wheels on the bag covers are nice, too.

To reduce the chance of a head snapping off one of your woods, follow the example of the touring pros that pack their clubs upside down in their bags.

Check in advance about the weather conditions where you are going. The internet is always a good source. It might be wise to pack rain gear if going to Scotland or Ireland. Extra sunscreen comes in handy in Los Cabos (Mexico) in the summer.

If you are only going to play once in a week--or even twice on a longer stay--consider leaving your clubs at home. Most resorts have quality rental clubs. However, I was surprised at the poor condition of such rentals during one visit to Doral Country Club in Miami, Fl.

One Texan who went with me on a trip to Hawaii took a unique approach. He waited until he got there and looked in the newspaper to find a set of used clubs. He paid $100, getting a Spalding putter worth at least that much. He did not have to pay $40a day for rental clubs and had a set for his son when he returned to Texas.

Pack lightly. Remember, that will give you a good excuse to buy one of those logo shirts to show off to your friends when you get back home.

Check on the dress code where you plan to play. I once had to change from a pair of nice denims at a resort in Florida. Shorts were OK. Most courses require shirts with collars. Some restaurants at the resort may even require a coat. I know that is true on Lanai in Hawaii.

Bring along your handicap card, especially if you are playing in Europe where some courses have restrictions on what level of golfers may play.

Book your tee times in advance when possible. It is always easier to change them after you get there.

Unless you are in good shape, don’t overextend yourself by playing 36 holes every day. There are other things to do, too. I know that Texas insurance agent Ray Mullins and myself have broken this rule by playing more than 54 holes in a day at Garza de Leon in Costa Rica. Of course, it only took us seven hours with a break for lunch. I did skip dinner and go to bed early that night.

Do not overlook the effects of jet lag. It has always been more of a problem for me going east to Europe, but I do find staying up late a problem in Hawaii, four hours behind Texas time. I’m  ready for the first tee time the next morning!

No other professional golfer has traveled more miles in an airplane than Gary Player.

Here is his advice:

Engage in as much physical activity on departure day as you can so that you are tired and will sleep on the plane.

Eat as little as possible, maybe only fruit.

Drink plenty of water and avoid liquor.

When you arrive, get on the clock at your new location, doing whatever the locals are doing at that time.

Enjoy your golfing vacation, bringing back lots of photos for your buddies who could not get away.