Tips from a pro on how to pack for a golf trip
This article appeared in the November 2025 edition of Chicago District Golfer.
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Tip #1: Choose a Key Color
Start with one primary color as the foundation for your wardrobe.
If your trip lasts more than three or four days, you can add a second. My go-to is blue, so everything I bring — polos, shorts, pants, sweaters — works around that color.
When everything coordinates, mixing and matching becomes eortless and you avoid the rookie mistake of packing by “outfit.”
The result: less stress, fewer “what do I wear?” moments, and more space in your bag.
Pro tip: Lay everything out before you start packing.
Tip #2: Always Bring a Sweater
Even if you’re headed somewhere warm, air conditioning (especially in Mexico!) can make a sweater a must-have layer.
Tip #3: Invest in the Right Bags
You’ll probably be checking your golf travel bag, so consider checking a second suitcase too.
The Sun Mountain Club Glider is pricey, but worth every penny — it glides through baggage claim like a dream. Add a unique tag or marker so you can spot it easily (after once taking home the wrong black Mizuno bag, I learned my lesson).
For your main suitcase, I swear by the Tumi Tegra-Lite Extended Trip Expandable — durable, lightweight and smooth-rolling. Insist on quality; good luggage makes a difference.
Tip #4: Pack Proper Rain Gear
Even in the desert, rain happens. Make sure your gear is waterproof, not just water-resistant. Look for sealed seams — they’ll appear as taped lines inside the garment. Kjus makes a fantastic selection of rain gear.
Add a waterproof bucket hat with a chin strap; when it rains, it often blows. The Galvin Green Asher is a great option. And skip the cotton baseball cap — it’s basically a sponge.
Tip #5: Bring an Extra Pair of Golf Shoes
For trips longer than three days, pack a second pair of waterproof golf shoes — ones you’ve already broken in. Playing in sneakers isn’t fun, and new shoes can ruin your trip with blisters.
Tip #6: Use Packing Cubes
Packing cubes keep everything organized and save time when you’re looking for that last pair of socks.
Eagle Creek and CALPAK make great ones; Eagle Creek’s shirt cube even includes a folding board for crisp folds.
Tip #7: Don’t Skimp on Socks
Your feet deserve the best. I like Feetures socks — they fit well and wash beautifully.
If your flight is longer than three hours, add a pair of compression socks (Bombas makes good ones) to reduce swelling.
Tip #8: Wear Heavy Items on the Plane
Save weight in your luggage by wearing your heaviest shoes or layers during travel.
Tip #9: Use AirTags
A small investment that brings huge peace of mind — with Apple AirTags, you’ll always know where your luggage is.
Tip #10: Fit Equals Comfort
Every item should fit well and move with you. Only travel with golf shoes you’ve worn before — trust me, blisters are brutal.
And while white golf shoes go with everything, you can tell Mom you no longer need to match your belt to your shoes.
Tip #11: Bring Your Own Toiletries
Your Dopp kit should include your own shampoo and soap — they’re familiar and safe. Unless you’re in a five-star hotel, the ones provided won’t compare. I use MUJI 100ml containers for easy packing.
Tip #12: Pack “Insurance” Items
Tuck in a few helpers:
•A single-use Woolite packet or a small bottle of Dr. Bronner’s soap for stains
●A Tide To-Go pen (indispensable)
●Dickinson’s Witch Hazel wipes to sanitize airplane tray tables
Tip #13: Bring a Blue Blazer
A navy blazer covers you for dinners or meetings. The Sid Mashburn Ghost Blazer is a personal favorite — wrinkle-resistant and incredibly comfortable.
Tip #14: Add a Black Knit Tie
A simple black knit tie makes you ready for any formal occasion — even a last-minute wedding or funeral. The Ralph Lauren Purple Label Knit Tie is my favorite.
Tip #15: Pack Sweatpants in Your Carry-On
Changing into Todd Snyder x Champion French Terry sweatpants mid-flight keeps you warm and comfortable — a small luxury that makes a big difference.
Bonus Tip: The Fragrance Trick
Before your flight, stop at Duty-Free and grab a few scent strips. Spray them with your favorite cologne and tuck them into your bag. When you unpack, even your laundry will smell great.
Marty Hackel is the former fashion director at Golf Digest.