Playing golf is not cheap. It requires greens fees, clubs, balls, and tees, not to mention range time if you want to practice. Sure, golf clubs can be a one-time expense, but golf balls (which you will lose), golf tees (which you will break, unless you get the plastic ones), buckets of range balls (which you need for practice), and greens fees can really add up. So how can you play golf for less? You shouldn’t have to empty your wallet just to play this great game and have fun. Here are some useful tips for you to play golf for less money.
1. Download the GolfNow App
The GolfNow mobile app is the best way to book amazing deals on tee times at over 9,000 courses worldwide. For instance, right now I can book a tee time at a great nearby course (4.4 miles away from me) for only $10 to play 18 holes. Yes, you read that correctly. Download the app right now and see for yourself. It’s available for both iOS and Android mobile devices.
There isn’t much of a catch, other than paying a small convenience fee of $3.49 for each booking, and having to choose from only the tee times that are offered. But $13.49 for 18 holes is a lot better than the $50 and more you might normally have to pay. If you’re flexible on tee times, you will save a TON of money using this app.
And if you want, you can shell out an extra $9.99 per month or $99 per year for a subscription to NBC’s GolfPass (or $199 for GolfPass+), which gives you a $10 credit every month that you can use on tee times, one dozen TaylorMade golf balls, over 4,000 instruction tips, access to exclusive shows and videos, custom coaching plans from top instructors, a $100 travel credit at popular golf resorts, exclusive member support, and the Trip Manager tool by GOLF Advisor.
TIP: The $10 monthly tee time credit alone, which comes out to $120 annually, basically pays for the membership. And a subscription to GolfPass+ waives the convenience fees on GolfNow tee times, along with a few other bonus perks.
2. Find a college golf class
I was able to find a class at my local community college to play golf. I paid about $100 for the entire 16-week semester, and that gave me access to unlimited range balls, use of the putting greens, and free 9-hole rounds. The only catch: range use and course play applied only during class times, which were twice a week (Mondays and Wednesdays for about 3 hours each day). But it’s still a great way to play golf for less.
The instruction varied. Some days we would just stick to hitting balls on the range. Other days we were completing bunker drills, chipping drills, and putting drills. And sometimes the instructor would group us together for friendly competitions. But we were able to play 9-hole rounds at least once per week; sometimes Monday, sometimes Wednesday. If you ask me, I’d say it was a steal.
3. Play during “twilight” hours
Twilight hours come into play toward the end of the day, usually around 2pm or 3pm, although I’ve been to play quite a few courses where twilight rates start as early as noon. During these later hours, prices go down, and you can usually play a round of golf for about $10-20 less than if you played earlier in the day. It allows a golfer to complete as many holes as possible before dusk, and it’s designed to encourage players to use this time at the end of the day that might normally go unplayed.
Some courses even have super-twilight rates, which are even lower. It can be harder to play during the winter months when the clock rolls back and the sun starts setting earlier, but if you time it right, it’s another great way to save some bucks.
Here are some tips to maximize your twilight golf playing experience:
- Arrive at the golf course early or on time when twilight hours begin in order to maximize your playing time
- Don’t spend too much time looking for lost balls; you’re just burning daylight. If you lose a golf ball, just approximate where you think you lost it and take a drop (this is where having a plethora of cheap golf balls comes in handy)
- Don’t be afraid to skip holes or play quickly to go through slow groups ahead of you, especially if you’re alone or with just one other person
Remember: twilight golf should be used just to get some playing time in. So get out there, relax, and have some fun!
4. Play a 9-hole round instead of a full 18 holes
You don’t have to play an entire 18-hole round every time you go golfing. Playing 9 holes is one of my favorite ways to just get some playing time in. And it costs less! Many courses offer discounted rates for 9-hole rounds, so you can save money without sacrificing too much playing time. In addition, you can play 9 holes a lot faster than 18, which is perfect if you’re short on time.
I can usually clock in a 9-hole round at about 2 hours, so it’s a great way to get some practice time in without taking up your entire day. And if you’re not too serious a golfer, 9 holes may be all you need to get your fix. So next time you’re at the course, consider playing 9 holes instead of 18. You may be surprised at how much fun you have – and how much money you save.
TIP: try finding a Par-3 course; you can oftentimes play 9 holes at one of those in under an hour! What a great way to play golf for less AND spend a lunch break 😎🏌🏼♂️⛳️
5. Play golf during the week
Weekday rates at most courses are significantly cheaper than weekend rates.
If you’re looking to play golf for less, weekdays are the way to go. At most courses, weekday rates run significantly less. And since many courses are less crowded during the week, you’ll likely have a better experience overall, via shorter wait times and less foot traffic on the greens. So next time you’re itching to hit the links, remember that you can save a lot of money by playing during the week.
6. Take advantage of specials and discounts offered by golf courses
One of the best ways to play golf for less is to take advantage of specials and discounts offered by golf courses. For example, many courses offer twilight, senior, and junior play times at lower rates. Another great way to save money and play golf for less is to find discounts online or through golfing magazines. You can also sign up for email newsletters from your favorite golf course to receive notification of upcoming sales and special events. By taking advantage of these offers, you can enjoy a round of golf without breaking the bank.
7. Play during the off-season when prices are lower and courses may have deals or discounts available
Another great way to play golf for less is to play during the off-season. Rates are typically lower in the spring and fall, when courses are less busy. And many courses offer deals or discounts during these times. So if you’re looking to save on green fees, plan your round for when the crowds are thin. You’ll enjoy a better experience – and a better deal to play golf for less.
8. Join a golf club or league with discounted rates
If you’re looking to play golf for less, joining a golf club or league is a great way to go. Many clubs offer memberships with significant discounts on green fees and other perks. These clubs often offer reduced fees for members, as well as access to deals and specials at local courses. So if you’re looking for more ways to play golf for less money, joining a club is definitely the way to go.
9. Look into playing at public courses instead of private ones
If you’re looking to play golf for less, then you should definitely consider playing at public courses. These courses are typically much less expensive than private ones, and they can offer just as good a round of golf. Plus, you’ll often find that public courses are less crowded than private ones, so you’ll be able to play at your own pace. So if you’re looking to play golf on a budget, then public courses are definitely the way to go.
10. Play with friends who have memberships
If you know someone who belongs to a golf club, ask them if you can tag along and play as their guest.
If you want to play golf but don’t want to spend the money on a membership, there are still ways to enjoy the game. One option is to play as a guest of someone who already has a membership. This can be a great way to save money and still get to play at some of the nicer courses.
Another option is to look for discounts. Many courses offer discounts for seniors, students, and military personnel. You can also often find coupons in local magazines or online. By doing a little research, you can find ways to play golf for less.
11. Share equipment rentals with friends or play without using a cart to save on additional fees
The only rule I’ve ever encountered on a golf course is the need for each individual golfer to have their own bag. Other than that, you can absolutely share clubs! Golf can be an expensive sport to play, but if you have friends who also play golf, you can share equipment and share equipment rentals, such as carts and clubs.
You can also play golf for less by not using a cart, which will save on additional fees. If you walk the course instead of riding, you’ll not only save money, but you’ll also get some exercise. Playing golf doesn’t have to break the bank if you’re smart about it. If you share equipment and walk the course, you can play golf for less.
12. Bring your own food and drinks
Some courses have strict policies against outside food and drink, but you can save a lot of money by packing your own snacks and drinks instead of buying them at the course.
In addition, you can avoid the unhealthy options that are often sold at golf courses, such as processed snacks and sugary drinks, not mention alcohol!. So next time you hit the links, be sure to pack your own food and drinks! Play golf for less money and play healthier by bringing your own food and drinks to the course.
13. Practice at a driving range or miniature golf course instead of on the full course to save money
Are you looking to play golf for less? Then the driving range or miniature golf course is the place for you. Practice at either of these venues instead of the full course to save money. Driving ranges typically charge by the bucket of balls, so you can play as much or as little as you want.
Miniature golf courses usually have a set fee for unlimited play. And both options offer a similar experience to playing on a full-size course, so you can still get in some quality practice time. So next time you’re looking to play golf on a budget, remember the driving range or miniature golf course. You’ll be able to play all the golf you want without breaking the bank.
14. Play with lower priced golf balls
They may not be as high quality but they’ll still provide an enjoyable game.
If you’re looking to play golf for less, you may want to consider using lower priced golf balls. While they may not be as high quality as more expensive balls, they can still provide an enjoyable game. There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing lower priced golf balls. First, make sure to read reviews to see what other golfers think of the ball. Second, try to find a ball that is specifically designed for beginners or those with slower swing speeds. This will help to ensure that you get the most out of your game. Finally, remember that even the best golfers occasionally play with lower quality balls – so don’t be afraid to give them a try!
15. Consider participating in charity tournaments or events, where often a portion of the fees go towards the cause being supported
Playing golf is a great way to help support your favorite charities. Many charities host tournaments or events where a portion of the fees go towards the cause. This is a great way to play golf for less and support a good cause at the same time. Not only will you be supporting the charity, but you’ll also be getting some great exercise and spending time outdoors. So next time you’re looking for a way to support your favorite charity, consider signing up for one of their events. You’ll have a great time and you’ll be making a difference.
16. Take a golf lesson or two
Many people think that golf is an expensive sport to play. However, there are ways to play golf for less money. One way to do this is to take a golf lesson or two. Sure, golf lessons can be expensive, but many courses offer discounts if you take a lesson or two before playing your round. By taking a few lessons, you will learn the basics of the game and how to play for less money. In addition, you will also get some tips on how to improve your swing. As a result, taking a few golf lessons can save you money in the long run.
You can also take lessons from a teaching professional at a discounted rate, and use their tips and techniques to improve your game and potentially play better and therefore play less expensive rounds in the long run.
