How to Save Money When Playing Golf

There is a perception that golf is an expensive sport, and there is no denying that it can be. But there are things you can do to enjoy the sport without spending a fortune. Here, we give you some of our money-saving tips.

Be Smart When Buying New Equipment

Do you need to spend top dollar on that latest model, whether it be a driver, fairway wood or set of irons? Instead of forking out £350 on a driver that promises you an extra 50 yards (it won’t deliver that, by the way), why not instead opt for the model it has just replaced? You will get it for about half the price, you will have a brand new club in your bag and the chances are that when it comes to performance it will be no different from the current model

Do you really need to use that Titleist Pro V1? Don’t get us wrong, we know it is a great golf ball, but it is expensive and the reality is that this is not a golf ball that is designed for high-handicap players

Instead of buying a new set of irons, why don’t you invest in a groove sharpener? You will be astonished at the difference it makes.

So, you have just gone out and spent a small fortune on your shiny new clubs. Your driver, fairway woods and rescue clubs come with head covers. Here’s a radical thought - buy some covers for your irons and stand back and be amazed at how pristine they still look after 12 months of use. This one is a no-brainer. Oh, and you will get a better price when you come to trade them in too.

Club and Game Maintenance

Good golf shoes are expensive. So why is it that so many of us just throw them in the boot of the car and don’t look at them again until the next time we play? If you look after your golf shoes they will last longer - and that will save you money too.

How many putters do you have in the attic, cupboard, garage, boot of your car? Good putters are expensive but although increasing numbers of club golfers are now being fitted for woods and irons, how many people do you know who have ever had a putter fitting? It is worth doing because you will end up with the right club for you - and you will save a fortune because you won’t be chopping and changing your putter every five minutes.

Tour professionals change their golf ball every three or four holes - you don’t need to. Don’t be embarrassed about using lake balls for social rounds of golf.

Don’t buy a cheap golf bag or cheap waterproofs. This may seem like odd advice in a column that is designed to help you save money but it is common sense really. If you buy cheap then you will end up having to replace that bag soon and the waterproofs probably won’t actually keep you dry.

Membership Options

When you are considering the golf club that you plan to join, shop around. Clubs are crying out for members and there will be deals to be had. Do you really need to take out seven-day membership? If you can’t afford to pay your subscription in one lump sum find one that will allow you to spread the payments by direct debit. And, in this day and age, you should not have to pay a joining fee.

If you can’t afford to join a golf club take some time checking out the courses in your area - most of them will offer twilight green fees that are hugely reduced on the standard rate.

Make friends with somebody who is a club member - if you go along with him you will pay a guest fee, which will be far less than you would pay if you were on your own.

Search for Bargains

You are in charge - if you are looking to buy a new set of clubs, ask for a reduction in price. You just might receive a pleasant surprise.

If you are high-handicapper, why not consider buying yourself a set of second-hand clubs - there are plenty of bargains to be found in pro’s shops and on specialist websites.

And don’t forget that on Golfshake we have an extensive database that features not only the best golf courses in the UK but also the cheapest hidden gems!

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