What to Pack for Golf Trips to Scotland & Ireland

With possible exception of touching down across the pond and the first sight of a windswept links golf course, the suitcase coming out of the closet is arguably the most exciting moment of an overseas golf trip. And yet, this moment often brings a conundrum...

What to pack for a golf trip to Scotland, Ireland, or England.

For our traveling members, a detailed packing list is included in your Field Manual, which will arrive well in advance of your Expedition. But for those looking to get a little head start, here’s list of important things to pack on a golf trip to Scotland, Ireland, or England.

We have also included several additional guides for your pre-departure preparations, from caddies and flights to using your cell phone and shipping your clubs.

Less Clothes

In our post-Expedition surveys, we invite our members to share any advice they may have for future H&B travelers. The vast majority of the time, they have just one piece of advice...

Pack less.

When packing for a golf trip, it’s easy to overdo it. The general tendency is to take two shirts per day - one for golf, one for the evening - but this is usually overkill for two reasons.

First, the weather is considerably cooler in the British Isles, so you may not feel the need to change after your round. This is especially true if golf bleeds straight into post-round beverages and dinner. The second reason you should pack fewer clothes: souvenirs. In all likelihood, your wardrobe will be expanding as the trip goes along. So save the room in the suitcase upfront and put those new shirts, pullovers, and sweaters to use on the trip.

Waterproof Everything

The weather in the British Isles is, shall we say, a bit finicky. You might go the entire week in nothing but shirtsleeves and sunshine, or you might experience all four seasons every day of the trip. For this reason, waterproof gear is of the utmost importance. You may return home having never taken it out of the bag, but a mile from the clubhouse is no time to be unprepared.

Here’s what you’ll need…

• Quality Rain Suit - This will be a costly purchase, but it’ll be worth every penny when you need it.
• Two Pairs of Golf Shoes - You’ll be thankful for the 2nd pair the morning after a particularly wet day.
• Sturdy Umbrella - Usually ill-advised on the course due to the wind, but helpful when sightseeing.
• Waterproof Gloves - Worthless in dry weather, priceless when it’s wet.

Layers are Your Friend

Although the weather is generally quite mild during the summer, keep in mind that these courses are on an equal latitude with parts of Alaska. Consider investing in a good set of compression gear, which will keep you warm when you need it and help in your battle against the wind.

Your Handicap Card

Some courses, particularly the Old Course St. Andrews, Muirfield, and Royal Portrush, will verify your handicap credentials prior to play. Even if you’re not playing these courses, you may be asked by other clubs to confirm your handicap as well. So treat your handicap card like the old mantra for American Express: Don’t leave home without it. And if you need guidance on how to establish a handicap for your golf trip, follow the link to consult our helpful guide on the topic.

The Lightest Bag You Own

There’s an old adage that the best caddies get the lightest bag. So do yourself a favor and leave the giant staff bag at home. And if you happen to have other questions related to caddies, we suggest giving a read of our Caddie FAQs.

Check the Club Dress Code

While most clubs have relaxed their dress code policy, some still require a jacket and tie in certain areas of the clubhouse or times of day. The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, Royal St. George’s, and Sunningdale are three such examples. So we’d advise consulting the clubs visitor information before arrival.

For H&B travelers, your Field Manual and Final Marching Orders will spell out what attire is required at each club during your trip.

Golf Balls

Simply put, they’ll cost you more across the pond. Bring them with you.

Local Currency

Consider taking a small supply of local currency with you, especially if you’re heading straight to a course from the plane and will need cash for a caddie. ATMs are readily available, and will usually offer a better exchange than your local bank, but this will save you from scrambling for Pounds or Euros upon arrival.

Adapters & Cords

It's easier than ever to stay connected while traveling, but your device is no use to you unless it's charged. When you’re putting together your miscellaneous items for the trip, don’t forget adapters for the overseas power outlets. Many include USB and traditional plugs in a single adapter, allowing you to charge multiple devices at once. Of course, the adapter is only helpful if you also have your charging cord. Make sure both are in your carry-on before departure.

Additional Tips

Carry On

Pack a couple days worth of clothes, toiletries, and other important documents and medications in your carry on. You’ll be glad you did on the off chance the airline sends your luggage to El Paso instead of Edinburgh.

Ship the Clubs

Sending the clubs ahead is just one less thing to worry about at the beginning of your trip. And if you’re curious how to pack your golf travel bag, rest easy… We’ve answered that question in detail at the link above.

AirTag

Whether you're flying with your golf bag or shipping it over, tossing in an Apple AirTag can be a smart move. The AirTag is a small, Bluetooth-enabled tracking device that pairs with your iPhone, allowing you to see the location of your golf clubs using the Find My app. This may come in handy if your golf bag is delayed or lost during your travels.