Before we even consider what we should keep in our golf bags it is also important to be aware that there are a large number of golf bags themselves available. To a great extent your golf bag choice is driven by how much your budget is as well as what it is you actually want from your golf bag. Some golf bags are considered to be fashion accessories, some are identified only for their practical uses and some are a mixture of both of these attributes.
To ask the age old question – does size matter? Many golfers consider this to be an important factor. So, fortunately there are large bags, larger bags and bags so big that they’d keep everything I would need for a long weekend holiday in one of the side pockets! As the saying goes – everything, including the kitchen sink comes to mind. If you are just starting out in golf then choosing the appropriate golf bag is one of many things you need to consider carefully. This task along with many other golfing matters can seem quite daunting for the golf “newbie”. Don’t worry though, you can find many great tips and information at Golf Beginners Guide.
Anyway, back to your golf bag. Disregarding any fashion issues for now, broadly speaking you need a bag just big enough to hold your clubs, additional balls, your glove, tees, car keys, additional pencils, ball markers, a ball retriever,
sunscreen, a windbreaker and a large umbrella.
Also consider that it may be a good idea to carry a packet of tissues or two, some sticking plasters, and if you are playing courses in a country where insects, such as mosquitos, are a concern, some bug repellant may also be a good idea. In any type of weather it is well worth considering taking a bottle of water with you (or any other drink of your choice – alcohol excluded of course!!)!!)
A small packet of baby wipes will come in very handy as well. In your bag they get warmed by the heat, so when you get sweaty or a sand trap covered you with sand, a nice warm wipe can be very invigorating. To cool from the heat, a golfing buddy I know carried a small, battery operated fan with him. Quite a good idea as it happens but remember, they can be fairly noisy and distracting so do not use it when your partner is about to take a shot. The fan is not a bad idea but not an essential for the golfing beginner.
A golfing friend of mine also happens to be allergic to bees, hornets and wasps, so Epipen is a vital addition to his bag. He is hypoglycaemic as well so he carries Lifesavers, which need to be replaced numerous times during the year because they are inclined to melt.
One modern day convenience that is not really a necessity on the golf course is a mobile phone. However, if you feel that it is needed during your round of golf, you ought to really turn the ringer to mute as a consideration to your fellow golfers. If it so happens that you have to use it, then consider your fellow golfers who may be preparing to take a swing or an important put. Be courteous and show respect for your golf playing partners!!
Having these items in your golf bag should allow for everything you will need, even in a minor emergency (like a blister) or a major inconvenience, like a sudden rainstorm. Being organised and prepared makes the game a great deal more fun.
You may think of other things that are essential to you (for example you may suffer from hay fever and as a result your medication is vital) so take note of the above items as a guideline. You shouldn’t go over the top as, after all, you will still have to carry the bag so you do not want it to be too heavy. You do not want to expend all you energy on lugging your heavy bag round. Whatever you choose to keep in your bag always look after the items as well as you would look after your other golf equipment.
