Hit the Links for Less: Some Obvious and Not So Obvious Ways to Save on Golf

The following is a guest post from Jena Ellis, who writes for Online Certificate Programs. 

In 2004, Forbes.com featured a list of the most expensive sports. While the very top of the list was populated by the more exotic recreational activities like sailing, car racing, and flying, golf is a sport that is popular among the upper and middle classes alike. Still, golf made the list, and if you want to regularly sink a putt without making your finances a veritable sinkhole, here are a few things to think about.

1. High end clubs are for low handicaps.

 Many will judge the perceived value of quality equipment by its price. While brand name clubs are high quality, you won't get much use from them if you have a mid-range or higher handicap. The most expensive clubs are for pros and showoffs. Go for the knock offs or used ones instead.

2. Keep track of your balls.

Nothing wastes more money than lost balls, especially if you prefer softer balls with better traction. While it can be trying to hold up a game while chopping through the rough or fishing in the pond, in the end it's worth it. Take a few minutes to look before giving up. Keeping track of other little things--to whit, tees, gloves, etc.--is also critical in the saving process. Trust me. It all adds up.

3. Remember that most golf gadgets are marketing scams.

The golf gadget industry is akin to products sold on infomercials. They make big promises, they're often sold in multiple payments of 19.99, and they don't help much in lowering your score long term. The best investment you can make in improving your handicap is practice and lessons.

4. If you enjoy golfing while traveling, plan vacations to golf hotspots.
 
When golf courses compete against each other, then you'll be sure to seal some good deals on rounds. When planning family vacations, see if you can negotiate with other family members in terms of location.

5. Consider a membership.

If you don't already have a golf membership, consider getting one. While many of us don't like being tied down to one course, member benefits enable savings that will surprise you.

6. Make friends with golf club members.

Of course, it's not necessarily reasonable to base friendships on the game of golf, although it's tempting to think so considering the game's addictive, hypnotic qualities. When meeting people for the first time at different social events or just by random chance, be sure to throw in your golfing interest in conversation. Golfers come in all stripes and colors, so you'll never know a stranger's shared passion if you don't bring it up. You'll make a new golf buddy and you may just end up saving some money in the process. Who doesn't want that?

7. Be choosy with your boozing.

Golf and the consumption of alcohol are often said to go hand in hand. While this may be true, drinking heavily on the course doesn't much help in the way of lowering your score, but it will most certainly lead to a hemorrhaging pocketbook. And, what's more, if you're careful about how much you consume, you can always use your heightened senses and finer motor skills to take advantage of competitors who may not be so inclined to control their drinking.

8. Be mindful about each and every shot.

Don't think this tip will save you much money? Well think again. If the whole point of golf is to both enjoy yourself and lower your handicap, then focusing on each shot works toward both objectives. Just as the enjoyment of fine cuisine is only possible through eating slowly and thoughtfully, so too, does careful and self-aware playing lead to a better overall experience. Mindlessly hacking through a course means that you aren't getting as much bang for your buck. The quantity of practice, in which shelling out more dough becomes necessary, isn't as important as the quality of practice.  Think before you swing, every single time.

Comments

[Paul]

And if you are a beginner, save money by hitting the driving range and playing on par 3 courses until you get better.

[Kevin]

Golf is expensive if you want to get the most from the sport. Go ahead and give it a try, it's a great game. If you realize you have no hand eye coordination or can't even get the ball airborne though- do your wallet and everyone else on the course a favor and take up another hobby.

[Rob]

I've never played a round and don't plan to anytime soon. Going to the driving range is enough for me - I look plenty silly just doing that!

I do plan on getting my pilot's license one day which will cost me even more as the article mentioned.

[Brett]

There is always Disc Golf if you want something cheaper.

[John @ WiseFinish]

I second disc golf. Look at www.pdga.com for a course near you - most courses are free, and you can get started with about $10 in equipment.