Taking your golf clubs on vacation

Knowing which bag to carry your golf clubs in and remembering to take your golf shoes, are all important when it comes to planning a successful golfing vacation

If you are a serious golfer, the chances are you've been on a golfing vacation already. A golfing vacation is a great time to unwind, soak up the sun and practise your golf, of course. For newcomers to golf, you may be planning a trip abroad. Here are some of hints and tips on how to achieve a stress-free vacation

• Luggage and golf bags occasionally go missing, so don't pack your shoes in them. Having to play in rented shoes, apart from the hygiene problems, means welcome to the world of blisters. You can avoid the risk by always packing your golf shoes in your hand luggage.

• Overseas golf courses do not allow golf shoes with metal spikes. It's one of the reasons why their courses are always in such good condition. Change your spikes before you go and remember to take some spares. If necessary, you can probably get hold of some spikes at the resort, but why waste time on mundane matters when you could be out enjoying yourself with your golf clubs?

• Remember to carry your golf clubs in the right type of golf bag. Golf bags come in three types, but the hard case provides the most protection, especially for airline travel.

• If you are playing on your own you are deemed to be practicing on the course and you must let groups behind you go through without delay. On a busy course you could end up standing on the side of the fairway acting as a traffic policeman and calling everyone through. Not a lot of fun.

• Some local golf clubs charge a small fee for golf insurance and federation taxes, so to ensure a stress free tee off, pay before you play.

• After a long flight, and perhaps a night on the town you should ease yourself gently in. You don't want to pull a muscle on the first day and be out of action for the rest of the week. Leave certain golf clubs in the bag for a few holes, take out your trusty 3 or 5 wood and swing nice and slow. When you've played a few holes and loosened up a little you can take out the big gun.

If you're looking for new golf clubs to take on your vacation you should check out Sports HQ. A division of Confidence Sporting Goods, inc., the famous manufacturer from Palm Springs , California , we have been making quality sporting goods for 35 years. We sell a huge range of sports equipment, including golf clubs. Because we sell directly to you, you can expect to save up to 70% on normal retail prices when buying from us. To order, phone 1-800-603-0004.