As the summer sun beckons golf enthusiasts to the fairways and greens, finding ways to enjoy this beloved sport without breaking the bank becomes a priority for many.
Whether you're a seasoned golfer or new to the game, there are numerous strategies to trim costs while still hitting the links.
From cost-saving membership options to budget-friendly gear, here are 12 savvy ways to save on golf this summer.
If you’re over 50, take advantage of massive discounts and financial resources
Over 50? Join AARP today — because if you’re not a member you could be missing out on huge perks. When you start your membership today, you can get discounts on things like travel, meal deliveries, eyeglasses, prescriptions that aren’t covered by insurance and more.
How to become a member today:
- Go here, select your free gift, and click “Join Today”
- Create your account (important!) by answering a few simple questions
- Start enjoying your discounts and perks!
Important: Start your membership by creating an account here and filling in all of the information (Do not skip this step!) Doing so will allow you to take up 25% off your AARP membership, making it just $12 per year with auto-renewal.
Get a club membership
Investing in a club membership can offer significant savings for avid golfers. Many clubs offer various membership tiers, including options for frequent players and retirees, providing access to discounted green fees and other perks like practice facilities and social events.
Some memberships might include guest passes, allowing you to share the benefits with friends or family members.
Opt for a twilight membership at a local club
Twilight memberships often provide discounted rates for playing during off-peak hours, typically in the late afternoon or early evening. If your schedule allows, consider opting for a twilight membership at a local club to enjoy reduced fees while still getting your golf fix.
These memberships can be particularly advantageous for retirees or those with flexible schedules who prefer to play during quieter times.
Purchase used clubs
Buying used clubs can be a cost-effective way to upgrade your golf equipment without breaking the bank. You can look for deals on eBay, but you have to guess if that club will suit you.
Stores like 2nd Swing offer a wide selection of quality used clubs at discounted prices, allowing you to save on essential gear without sacrificing performance. They have indoor hitting bays and a putting green, so you can try before you buy.
Resolve $10,000 or more of your debt
Credit card debt is suffocating. It constantly weighs on your mind and controls every choice you make. You can end up emotionally and even physically drained from it. And even though you make regular payments, it feels like you can never make any progress because of the interest.
National Debt Relief could help you resolve your credit card debt with an affordable plan that works for you. Just tell them your situation, then find out your debt relief options.1
How to get National Debt Relief to help you resolve your debt: Sign up for a free debt assessment here. (Do not skip this step!) By signing up for a free assessment, National Debt Relief can assist you in settling your debt, but only if you schedule the assessment.
Shop for golf gear during the off-season
Take advantage of off-season sales and promotions to score great deals on golf gear and apparel, usually between October and January. Many retailers offer discounts on last season's inventory, making it the perfect time to stock up on essentials like golf balls, gloves, and clothing at a fraction of the cost.
Additionally, keep an eye out for clearance sales and online promotions for even more savings.
Volunteer at a local course
Some golf courses offer incentives for volunteers, such as complimentary rounds of golf or discounted memberships.
Volunteering your time as a starter or a marshall can not only save you money but also provide valuable opportunities to connect with the golf community and give back to the sport. Volunteering can be a great way to gain access to facilities at the course.
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Bring your own snacks and drinks to the course
Avoid pricey clubhouse snacks and beverages by bringing your own refreshments to the course. Packing a cooler with water, sports drinks, and healthy snacks can help you stay hydrated and fueled up during your round without overspending on concessions.
By bringing your own snacks, you can customize your options and ensure you have your favorite treats on hand.
Purchase low-cost golf balls
Golf balls are necessary to play the game, but they can be a great expense over the course of a season. Seeking out affordable golf balls can help you save money while still enjoying quality play on the course.
Look for budget-friendly options at retailers like Walmart, or consider buying overrun balls from an online store like Golfballs.com to get more bang for your buck.
You can also find refurbished balls online from sites like LostGolfBalls.com. Additionally, buying in bulk or taking advantage of multi-pack deals can further reduce the cost per ball.
Play nine holes instead of 18
Opting for a nine-hole round instead of 18 can significantly reduce your green fees while still allowing you to enjoy a satisfying golf experience. Many courses offer discounted rates for nine-hole play, making it a budget-friendly option for golfers looking to save money.
Playing nine holes can be a time-saving alternative for busy golfers or those with limited availability.
Explore weekly specials and promotions offered by golf clubs
Many golf clubs offer discounted green fees on designated days, such as seniors' and ladies' days, where you can save almost half off regular prices.
Some clubs even sweeten the deal by including complimentary food and drinks. By taking advantage of these specials, you can enjoy a round of golf without paying full price.
Earn cash back on everyday purchases with this rare account
Want to earn cash back on your everyday purchases without using a credit card? With the Discover®️ Cashback Debit Checking account (member FDIC), you can earn 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month!2
With no credit check to apply and no monthly fees to worry about, you can earn nearly passive income on purchases you’re making anyway — up to an extra $360 a year!
This rare checking account has other great perks too, like access to your paycheck up to 2 days early with Early Pay, no minimum deposit or monthly balance requirements, over 60K fee-free ATMs, and the ability to add cash to your account at Walmart stores nationwide.
Don’t leave money on the table — it only takes minutes to apply and it won’t impact your credit score.
Join a golf league
Joining a golf league can be a fun and affordable way to play regularly while enjoying reduced rates and other league perks. Many leagues offer discounted green fees for members, as well as opportunities for friendly competition and socializing with fellow golfers.
Additionally, league play often includes organized events and tournaments, adding to the overall value of membership.
Walk the golf course instead of using a cart
Save on cart fees by opting to walk the course instead. Walking not only provides excellent exercise but also allows you to enjoy the beauty of the course at a leisurely pace while saving money on rental fees.
Walking instead of riding can enhance your overall golf experience by allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the game and appreciate the natural surroundings.
Dig up used golf balls
Scouring the rough for lost golf balls can be a thrifty way to replenish your supply without spending a dime. Keep an eye out for stray balls during your round or take a stroll along the edges of water hazards to uncover hidden treasures.
You can even consider investing in a ball retriever to make it easier to collect lost balls from hard-to-reach areas of the course.
Bottom line
As you gear up for a summer of golf adventures, consider how these money-saving tips can help you make the most of your time on the course without breaking your budget.
By being strategic about memberships, equipment purchases, tee times, and other expenses, you can enjoy the game you love while keeping more money in your bank account.
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