What to Bring Golfing: A Beginner's Checklist
By MyFoursome · Published · 4 min read
Showing up prepared for a round makes everything easier — especially when you're playing with a group for the first time. Here's what to bring.
General guidance, not a guarantee of results. Course policies and competition rules vary. Joining or hosting a MyFoursome game does not itself reserve a tee time.
The essentials
You genuinely can't play without these:
- Clubs — a beginner set (or rental if it's your first time)
- Golf balls — bring more than you think you'll need. Beginners lose a lot.
- Tees — a handful of wooden tees, mixed lengths
- Golf glove — one glove for your lead hand, prevents blisters
- Appropriate footwear — golf shoes or flat-soled sneakers (no running shoes with deep lugs)
What to wear
Most courses require a collared shirt and prohibit denim. When in doubt, a polo and khaki or golf shorts is the safe choice. Check the course's dress code online before you go.
- Collared or mock-neck shirt
- Golf shorts, pants, or skirt — no denim or athletic shorts at many courses
- Hat or visor — the sun adds up over 18 holes
- Light layers if it might be cool in the morning
Useful extras
Not required, but you'll be glad you have them:
- Ball markers — a coin works fine
- Divot repair tool — for fixing pitch marks on the green
- Rangefinder or GPS watch — makes club selection much easier
- Sunscreen — reapply mid-round
- Water bottle — most carts have a holder
- Snacks — rounds take 3.5–5 hours; bring something to eat
- Small towel clipped to your bag — for cleaning club faces
What you don't need
You don't need a full 14-club set to start. Seven or eight clubs covers everything a beginner needs. You also don't need a motorized cart — walking with a push cart is cheaper and the exercise is part of the appeal.