Book Tee Times During Twilight Hours
As an avid golfer, I’m always looking for ways to improve my game and play on nice courses without breaking the bank. That’s why booking twilight tee times is one of my go-to strategies for scoring incredible golf deals. The golden hour just before sunset offers stunning scenery and dramatic lighting that enhances the golf experience. More importantly, courses usually offer significant discounts on twilight rates to attract players to otherwise undersold tee times. I routinely save 25-50% off peak rates just by teeing off at 5 or 6pm. The course is less crowded, the pace of play faster, and I don’t have to take off work early to get a round in. As soon as the shadows start stretching across the fairways, I start browsing for twilight tee time specials. It’s a magical time of day to golf and the savings opportunities abound.
Look for Weekday Specials
Like twilight tee times, weekdays tend to be less popular and crowded at most golf courses. After all, a majority of golfers play on the prime weekend slots. By planning your round Monday to Thursday, you can capitalize on the slower days by scoring marked down rates and incentives. Many clubs offer online discounts for midweek tee times, especially if you book multiple days in advance. I aim to reserve my weekday tee times at least 2 weeks ahead of time to lock in the best deals. Club newsletters and email alerts also tout weekday specials and promotions to generate business when fewer players are on the course. Being flexible with your schedule and availability during the week can translate to big savings compared to peak weekend rates. It just requires planning ahead.
Search for Last Minute Cancellations
While booking tee times in advance is ideal for locking in deals, I’ve also had great luck getting last minute discounts on rounds due to cancellations and open slots. Golfers have lives outside of the sport, and unforeseen circumstances lead to cancelled tee times every day. Rather than letting those prime slots go unfilled, courses will often offer up discounted rates at the last minute via social media, email blasts, or mobile alerts. I’ll check the course’s cancellation listings online or call the pro shop to check for open slots within a few hours of the desired tee time. More often than not, they’re willing to book me at a reduced rate versus letting the slot go unused. Being flexible with start times and willing to drop everything to get to the course can lead to big savings.
Ask About Loyalty Programs
If there’s a local course you frequent on a regular basis, be sure to ask about loyalty programs, member benefits, and frequent player discounts. Most clubs offer some type of incentives to regular patrons who book rounds consistently. After a certain spending threshold, you may qualify for reduced rates, priority bookings, or extra perks like free range balls or merchandise credit. I like to keep a tally of how much I’ve spent at my home course over the season. Then I inquire about discounts for loyal customers who help business by being a familiar face around the club. Demonstrating your patronage and enthusiasm for the club can lead to preferred rates. And the savings definitely add up over the course of a whole season with repeat visits.
Check for Online Booking Discounts
In today’s modern world, most tee time bookings occur online via the club website or a tee sheet provider. To incentivize online bookings, many courses offer discounts or coupon codes for using their website to schedule and pay for your round versus booking over the phone. The savings may only be $5 or 10% off, but over multiple bookings that discount adds up, especially because online booking is already easier and more convenient. Before scheduling your next tee time, check the course’s website for potential online booking promotions. And don’t forget to enter any coupon or discount codes during checkout. Taking advantage of tech savings is a win-win.
…
Look for Weekday Specials
As a busy working professional, finding time to golf can be a challenge with my 9-5 obligations. But over the years I’ve learned that with some strategic planning, I can take advantage of weekday golf specials to score incredible deals on rounds during the workweek. Most golfers naturally gravitate toward playing on the prime weekend slots, leaving weekdays much quieter at courses. To attract more players when demand is lower Monday through Thursday, clubs will routinely offer enticing discounts and promotions to fill up those open slots.
I make it a habit to check my home course’s website every Sunday evening to see what weekday specials they are touting for the coming week. Oftentimes they’ll offer free range balls or discounts like 20% off tee times booked 3 days in advance for any weekday round. email newsletters are another great source for uncovering weekday golf deals. I have the sales director at my club send me any promotions for weekday play so I can jump on reserving a discounted slot. Being flexible with my schedule is key – I’m happy to shift things around to golf at 2pm on a Tuesday vs. peak times on Saturday.
Booking a foursome with buddies who also have weekday flexibility makes it even easier to take advantage of deals. We intentionally plan our work schedules with afternoon golf outings in mind. Calling the course’s pro shop directly to ask about unfilled weekday tee sheet slots is another trick; they’ll often offer a last minute deal if they know you’ll commit. For courses with replay policies, I’ll book 18 holes in the morning using a discounted rate, then replay the full 18 or modified 9 in the afternoon. Weekday golf can be just as fun as the weekends, without the crowds and with the bonus of better pricing – it just takes some intentional planning.
…
Search for Last Minute Cancellations
As an avid golfer, I’m always keeping an eye out for ways to get good deals on quality courses. One strategy I use is looking for last minute tee time cancellations that open up discounted slots right before the round. Life happens and golfers are forced to cancel their bookings, even for premium weekend and morning spots. Rather than letting those prime times go unfilled, courses will offer them up at a reduced rate at the last minute.
I make a habit of checking the cancellation listings on my home course’s website late the evening before or early morning of when I hope to play. Openings do pop up! I also call the pro shop and let them know I’m eager to book any cancellations that morning. They appreciate having a ready fill-in and will call me to grab a vacant slot at a nice discount. Following the course on social media is another tip since they’ll blast out cancellation availabilities to their followers. Being flexible on timing and willing to drop everything to get to the course is key to taking advantage of the 11th hour deals.
Just the other day, I scored an unfilled 8am Saturday time for 30% off just by being persistent with the pro shop for any cancellations. When they called with the open slot, I rushed to the course and had a fantastic round at a great deal by keeping an eye out for last minute opportunities. With some diligence and flexibility, golfers can capitalize on last minute cancellations to play at prime times for less.
…
Ask About Loyalty Programs
As a golfer who plays frequently at my local club, I’ve learned to always ask about loyalty programs and rewards for repeat customers. Most courses today offer incentives and discounts to regular patrons who book multiple rounds per season. But usually you need to be proactive in inquiring about these loyalty perks, as they won’t just offer them upfront without being asked.
I make it a point to engage the pro shop staff and sales reps at the course to understand what loyalty benefits they provide. Once I get a sense of the thresholds, like number of rounds booked or total dollars spent annually, I’ll make sure to track my play and spending so I can take advantage of special rates or rewards when I hit those goals. Many times, the course will automatically reduce rates once you pass certain spending milestones, but it’s still worth asking so you know what to work towards.
Some of the common loyalty perks I’ve received include free range baskets, discounted replay rounds, free guest passes, merchandise credit, priority bookings on peak times, and reduced rates on food and beverage. Being recognized as a regular who supports the club definitely has its advantages. But it requires taking the initiative to understand the benefits and tracking your play. Loyalty definitely brings great perks and savings in the world of golf.
…
Check for Online Booking Discounts
Technology has changed many aspects of life, including how we book and pay for golf rounds. Most courses today have online tee time reservation systems and take payments through their website. To encourage utilization of these online booking platforms, many clubs offer discounts, promotions or coupon codes for using their site versus calling to book or pay in person.
Before scheduling my next tee time, I always check the course’s online booking site and reservation policy for any potential web savings. Sometimes the discount is a set dollar amount or percentage off when you book X number of days in advance online. Other times, it’s a promotional coupon code that reduces the fees. I’ve saved $5-10 per round at some clubs just by booking and paying on their site rather than over the phone or in the pro shop.
Beyond the cost savings, online booking provides convenience factors like selecting your exact tee time and payment method. But it’s the discounts that serve as an extra incentive for me. I simply look for the online booking link on the course’s website and hunt for any language about reduced rates. And don’t forget to enter any coupon or discount codes during online checkout to maximize the web savings. Technology can enhance the golf experience and provide deals in one click.
…
Look for Off-Season Savings
As an avid golfer in a region with cold winters, I’ve learned to take full advantage of off-season savings to get reduced rates during the lower demand months. While most golfers play during the warm weather spring, summer, and fall peak seasons, the diehards know winter golf can be incredible with the right gear – and winter rates make it especially appealing!
I routinely save 25-50% on greens fees simply by playing in the off-season winter months rather than competing for tee times in the packed peak summer. Many courses offer lower winter rates to generate revenue during their slower months and keep some business going. The trade-off of bundling up is well worth the dramatic discount. Off-season also provides more flexibility in booking prime weekend morning times that are impossible to get in summer.
To find the best off-season golf rates, I scour course websites, social media, and sales reps once the weather starts cooling in fall to understand winter pricing. Some also offer extra incentives like free cart rentals or range balls to attract winter diehards. Playing in crisp conditions amid beautiful fall foliage or a snow-covered landscape is magical – doing so at a steep discount makes off-season golf incredibly appealing.
…
Book Replay Rounds
As a golfer always looking for ways to maximize my time on the course, I love courses that offer replay round options. This allows you to book and pay for 18 holes in the morning, then replay the full course or a modified 9-hole loop in the afternoon. Not only does it optimize your practice and playing time, but replay rounds usually come at a discounted rate.
I specifically look for courses with generous replay policies when seeking deals. After finishing my first 18 in the morning, I’ll confirm with the pro shop that afternoon replay is available that day, then head right back out on the freshly groomed course I just played. Doing two consecutive 18s or a 18+9 replay lets me dial in each hole twice and ingrain the layout.
The replay discount is typically at least 50% off the normal greens fee rate, saving me big bucks for the bonus round. I’ve done full 36-hole days for nearly the price of a single 18. When planning your next tee time, scan course websites and policies for replay allowances. Then take advantage of replaying the same day at a reduced rate to maximize your playing time and savings.
…
Search for Coupons and Vouchers
As an avid golfer always seeking ways to save, I’ve learned to keep an eye out for coupons, vouchers and promotional codes that reduce greens fee rates. While not always easy to find, these golf discounts are out there if you know where to look and can offer great savings on your next round.
I routinely check course websites, social media, and third party booking apps for any advertised vouchers – sometimes they’ll offer $10 or 20% off greens fees. Signing up for email newsletters and rewards programs opens access to periodic coupon codes as well. Pro shops may also have discounted vouchers available if you ask at check-in. Search engines can uncover additional golf coupons from booking services and daily deal sites.
Just the other day I scored a “buy one get one free” voucher that let me play 18 holes and brought a buddy for free with me. Keeping an eagle eye out for coupons and promo codes takes a bit of diligence, but even scoring them occasionally can add up to nice savings over a season of golf.
…
Join a Golf Association
If you’re looking to take your golf game to the next level in 2023, one of the best things you can do is join a golf association. Golf associations provide a wealth of benefits that can help you get access to incredible golf club deals all year long.
One major perk of joining a golf association is gaining access to exclusive discounts at courses across the country. Most golf associations have partnerships with hundreds or even thousands of courses, allowing members to play at reduced green fees. This means you can play at private clubs and top-tier courses for a fraction of the normal cost. Who doesn’t want to save 50% or more on every round?
Golf associations also typically offer discounted rates on lessons, equipment, and more. Instead of paying full price for a new driver or paying $100 per hour for a teaching pro, you may be able to get significant savings as an association member. This makes it more affordable than ever to get high-quality equipment and instruction.
You may also get reciprocal benefits through the association, allowing you to play at your home club’s sister courses when you travel. This gives you access to an expansive network of courses for a low annual membership fee.
Most associations host member tournaments, clinics, Meetups, and other events, too. This is a great way to meet other passionate golfers in your area and improve your skills.
Look for Special Golf Packages
Keep an eye out for special golf packages that bundle green fees, cart fees, range balls, and other amenities into one heavily discounted rate. These package deals can save you big bucks compared to paying for each part of your golf day separately.
Popular sources for discounted golf packages include Groupon, GolfNow, individual course websites, and golf deal aggregators like LastMinuteGolfer. You can often find packages that are 50-60% off normal prices or even more.
Booking multi-day packages at resorts can also lead to big savings. Check out places like Myrtle Beach and Palm Springs for some of the best multi-round package deals.
Time it Right
The days and times you book your tee times can significantly impact how much you pay. Weekday mornings are generally the cheapest windows.
If possible, avoid weekend mornings when rates are peak. Afternoon tee times on weekends will be a bit cheaper. And twilight rates in the evenings can offer dramatic discounts off peak times.
The weather will also impact pricing. Rounds will be cheapest when it’s hot, cold, or wet outside. Spring and fall offer moderate temperatures without the summer crowds.
Look for Loyalty Programs
If you play at a certain course or club frequently, join their loyalty program to reap the benefits. Loyalty programs offer perks like discounted green fees, free replays, merchandise credit, free range balls, and more.
The benefits increase the more you play and spend at the facility. Make one course your home base and you could end up playing for free or next to nothing by being a loyal customer.
Check for Standby Specials
If you have a flexible schedule, take advantage of standby or last minute specials at courses. Many facilities offer discounted rates within 24 hours of the tee time if they haven’t filled their available slots.
Call the day before or morning of and see if they have any last minute deals. As long as you are willing to be flexible on exactly what time you play, you can often score rates as low as $20-30 at nicer courses.
Look for Coupons and Discounts
Keep an eye out both online and in print for coupons and discounts. Newspapers, magazines, brochures, and local ad mailers will sometimes include coupons for a free cart rental, discounted green fees, or other savings.
You can also find printable coupons online by searching “[course name] coupon” or checking sites like Groupon and RetailMeNot. Take 10 minutes to search around for any available coupons before booking a tee time.
Use Membership Perks
If you belong to AAA, AARP, military associations, or certain credit card rewards programs, you may have access to special discounts at courses. These can range from 10-30% off normal rates.
For example, a AAA membership nets you savings at over 2,000 courses in North America. Check what membership perks you already have access to and utilize them to save on every round.
Combining multiple discounts and perks together can really add up. Don’t be shy about stacking ways to save.
Book Replay Rounds
Many courses offer heavily discounted rates for “replay rounds” on the same day. If you want to book 36 holes or play another 9 after your first 18, you can often do so for an extra $15-25 instead of the full fee.
Making a day out of double rounds at one course is a great way to save on multiple green fees. Just make sure to stay hydrated!
Attend Demo Days for Free Golf
If you want to elevate your golf skills and score awesome deals on equipment this year, be sure to take advantage of demo days hosted by manufacturers and retailers. Demo days give you the chance to try out the latest gear for free and potentially walk away with new clubs at heavily discounted prices.
At demo days, major brands like TaylorMade, Callaway, and Titleist set up tents where you can test out their newest offerings. You’ll often find demo days at driving ranges or larger golf retail stores. The events are free to attend and give you access to hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of clubs to swing for yourself.
Not only is it incredibly helpful to experiment with different clubs before buying, but demo days often come with hot deals. Manufacturers will frequently offer deep discounts on clubs from previous model years. Or you may get a free sleeve of balls or other promo items for attending and providing feedback.
Demo days are the perfect opportunity to dial in your equipment for the season. Test new drivers to see if you can gain distance off the tee. Experiment with more forgiving irons to improve accuracy. Try out the latest putters to find one that gives you more confidence on the greens.
The knowledge you gain about what works for your swing is invaluable. Demo days let you make smarter buying decisions instead of blindly purchasing the latest hyped clubs. And finding the right equipment for your game can immediately lead to better scoring.
Here are some tips for making the most of demo days:
- Come prepared with your current club specs so you can test comparable options
- Ask questions of the company reps to understand the new technology
- Take notes after each swing to compare numbers and feel
- Demo the same club in different shafts and lofts
- Follow up with the brands afterwards if you need more information
You can often find demo day schedules on company websites or at your local pro shop. Some of the major demo days take place each year at big events like the PGA Show and PGA Merchandise Show. But you can also find smaller local demo days throughout the season.
Sign Up for Loyalty Programs
One of the easiest ways to score deals on golf equipment, apparel, and more is to join loyalty and rewards programs from major retailers. Signing up is free and gets you exclusive discounts and perks.
For example, TaylorMade’s MyTP program gives you 10% off your first purchase, free shipping, free returns, and access to limited edition products. Callaway’s Preferred Rewards offers ways to earn free gear and discounts based on your spending. Titleist Loyalty Advantage provides free personalization and double points during your birthday month.
Retailers like Golf Galaxy and PGA Superstore also have loyalty programs that unlock freebies, bonus discounts, free shipping, and earn-back opportunities. Taking a few minutes to sign up for these programs can save you a bundle long term.
Buy Used or Refurbished
Used and refurbished golf equipment has never been higher quality. Thanks to club trade-in programs, you can get last season’s latest drivers and irons for hundreds off retail pricing.
Check out sites like Callaway Pre-Owned, Taylormade Pre-Owned, 2nd Swing, and Global Golf for mint condition clubs at up to 50% off. The selection is amazing and every club is rigorously inspected and rated based on condition. Many come with the original headcovers and tools as well.
For extra savings, buy used golf balls in bulk. Pre-owned Lake Balls and Noodles provide Tour-level performance at a fraction of the cost of new. And lightly used name brand balls like Pro V1s can be had for $1 or less per ball if you buy 50-100 at a time.
Going used for both clubs and balls is an easy way to save big money while still getting premium gear.
Wait for Sales
If you can be patient, keep an eye out for end-of-season sales and other retail promotions. March through April offers some of the biggest discounts as retailers clear out older inventory ahead of new product releases.
You can frequently find last season’s drivers discounted by $100 or more. Iron sets, wedges, and putters also see major markdowns. Apparel and shoes will be 50-70% off in many cases. Balls, bags, gloves, and other accessories are marked down as well.
Another prime sales opportunity is around Black Friday. Especially at big box stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods, you’ll find rock bottom pricing to lure in holiday shoppers. The selection will be more limited but the bargains abound.
Sign up for retailer email lists and follow them on social media to be the first to hear about upcoming sales and coupon codes.
Negotiate with Retail Staff
If you don’t see a posted discount, negotiate with on-site retail staff for bonus savings, especially for past seasons products. Many have additional wiggle room to deal if it means making an immediate sale.
Explain that you are ready to purchase today if they can meet your price. Offer to pay in cash or upfront if they can discount 10-20% extra. Buying multiple items together also gives you leverage to request a larger overall discount.
The worst they can say is no. But often staff have authority to authorize 5-15% price reductions at their discretion without manager approval. Being polite but persistent pays off.
Demo days, loyalty programs, used gear, sales, and negotiating are all smart ways to keep your golf costs down and build an awesome arsenal of clubs. Use these tips and you’ll save par-tastic amounts of money!
Sign Up for Newsletters and Alerts
One of the sneakiest ways to find incredible golf deals this year is to sign up for email newsletters, text alerts, and create price drop alerts. This gives you insider access to limited-time offers and flash sales at courses and retailers.
Nearly every golf company offers email subscriptions that provide announcements on new product releases, special events, and most importantly – discounts! Subscribing takes just a minute and can save you serious cash long term.
For example, signing up for the TaylorMade newsletter may alert you to a flash sale on last season drivers for 50% off. Callaway’s emails may let you know about a clearance event on iron sets. Nike’s messages highlight coupon codes and early access to sales.
Course newsletters also advertise limited-time specials, like discounted replays if you book by a certain date or a free month of range balls with paid green fees. These time-sensitive deals reward loyal email list members.
You can also sign up for text message alerts from retailers and course aggregators. Text clubs offer last minute tee time discounts within 24 hours, spurring impulse purchases at slashed rates. Retailers send text codes for percent-off or dollars-off coupons to use on your mobile device.
And be sure to set price drop alerts on items you have your eye on. At big box stores especially, prices fluctuate frequently. Adding an alert means you’ll get notified automatically if the price dips, allowing you to snag the deal.
Follow Social Media Accounts
Along with emails and texts, following golf brands and courses on social media provides more access to discounts. Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are commonly used to announce sales, coupon codes, and golf deals.
Social media also gives you a way to directly contact brands and negotiate deals. On Facebook, you can message brand pages or post on their feeds asking politely for discount codes or bargains. Some companies will provide special one-time promo codes in response.
IG Stories and posts are an easy way for courses to advertise open tee times or replay specials in real time. Watching these Stories can help you find last minute slots at slashed rates.
Hashtags are also your friend for discovering golf bargains on social media. Search recent tags like #TaylorMadeSale, #TitleistDeals, #GolfDeals, and course-specific tags to find deals being talked about.
Check Daily Deal Aggregators
Visiting deal aggregator sites daily is a habit that pays off in golf savings. Sites like GolfNow and LastMinuteGolf compile discounted tee times, discounted equipment, promo codes, and other bargains all in one spot.
Their deal listings pull from hundreds of courses and retailers across the web. You can locate crazy markdowns without having to visit individual site after site.
These aggregators also offer additional discounts if you book through their platform, thanks to partnerships and sponsored listings. GolfNow’s Hot Deals, for example, can net you up to 80% of greens fees by pre-paying through their app.
Setting deal alert notifications and checking in daily lets you swoop on the best times and steals as soon as they are posted.
Negotiate Based on Time Slots
If you see a tee time still available close to the date, call the course and negotiate the price. Courses would much rather book a discounted time than let it go empty.
Politely ask if they are willing to offer a deal on open afternoon or evening slots within the next couple days. Mention you’d be happy to book and prepay right now if they can offer 15-20% off.
Similarly, call a day or two before your desired tee time and ask if they can offer a last minute rate. Just being flexible on timing and willing to call around increases your odds of scoring low rates.
Walk Instead of Ride
Skipping the golf cart and walking instead is an automatic way to slash costs. Cart fees typically run $15-$20 per person. Walking 18 holes twice a week would save you $150+ per month.
Walking is also great exercise and lets you get to know the course architecture better. Bring a lightweight carry bag with just essential clubs to make it more enjoyable.
If you play often, invest in a high quality push cart so you can transport clubs without shoulder strain. Or consider sharing a cart with a partner and splitting the cost.
Buy Discounted Gift Cards
Stocking up on discounted gift cards can get you bonuses on top of already marked down greens fees, gear, and more.
Look for gift card resellers like CardCash and Raise that offer 5-15% off course and retailer gift cards. You can find cards marked down up to 20% below face value.
Then when you go to use the gift card on greens fees or merchandise, you are getting an additional percentage back compared to paying full price. Maximize these compound savings for serious value.
Newsletters, social media, daily deal checks, negotiating, walking, and gift card stacking will all help you save substantial amounts on golf this year. Follow these tips to enjoy the game more while spending less!
Check for Junior and Senior Discounts
If you happen to fall into the junior or senior age ranges, be sure to ask about special discounted rates or membership fees. Many clubs offer reduced prices to juniors under 18 and seniors over 65 to encourage more participation from these demographics. This can be a great way to save money if you or a family member qualify.
Look for Special New Member Offers
To attract new members, many clubs will periodically offer deals for new joiners such as a waived or reduced initiation fee, a discounted monthly membership rate for the first year, or including some complimentary services like range balls or club rentals. Check their website or call to ask if any current promotions are being offered.
Take Advantage of Off-Peak Pricing
Golf clubs often adjust their fees based on time of day, day of the week, and time of year to balance demand. Playing at a less popular time like mid-afternoon on a weekday or in the winter means fewer players on the course and sometimes lower prices. If your schedule is flexible, ask about pricing fluctuations throughout the day/week/year.
Get Coupons and Gift Certificates
Check circulars and coupon sites to look for golf coupons, which are commonly available for free or discounted green fees, range balls, cart rentals, etc. Also keep an eye out for gift certificate deals, which can offer great savings on bundled services like a round of golf with cart and a meal afterward in the club restaurant.
Book Online Tee Times for Best Rates
Many clubs now offer special rates for booking tee times well in advance online. This allows them to capture bookings early and improve their tee sheet yield management. Take advantage of these early bird specials by reserving your ideal tee time several weeks out.
Walk Instead of Riding
A cart fee for 18 holes often costs nearly as much as the green fee itself, so walking instead of riding can lead to huge cost savings. Carts are very convenient, but if you’re able, consider carrying your bag or using a pushcart to eliminate the cart fee entirely.
Join a League
Leagues represent a regular committed source of tee times for the club, so joining a weekly men’s, women’s, senior, or couple’s league is a great way to get lower rates, often for an unlimited amount of golf. Leagues also add a fun social component to the golf experience.
Buy Discount Card Packages
Many clubs sell discounted prepaid card packages that bundle a specified number of rounds along with perks like range access, discounted cart fees, guest discounts, merch discounts, etc. This locks in lower rates and earns perks compared to paying full price individually each round.
Take Group Lessons
Group clinics and lessons are an affordable way to improve your game compared to private instruction. You also get the benefit of learning alongside peers and being able to compare notes. Look for lesson packages offering bulk rates for booking multiple sessions upfront.
Pair Up With Other Golfers
If the club charges per player instead of per cart, team up with other singles to share a cart and split the cost. Apps like GolfMatch enable you to connect with other golfers to share a tee time and cart fee. Partnering up makes golf more fun too!
Negotiate an Annual Deal
If you plan to play a club frequently, negotiate an annual package to lock in better rates for the whole year. This gives the club predictable revenue and ensures you’ll consistently pay lower fees per round with other perks.
Pay Upfront for the Year
Similar to negotiating an annual package, some clubs will offer a discount if you prepay your full membership fees in one lump sum at the start of the year. This incentive allows them access to capital and ensures you’ll frequent their club.
Check Resale Sites for Used Clubs
Instead of buying new gear at full retail pricing from the pro shop, look for great deals on lightly used, high quality clubs from popular resale sites like Callaway Preowned and GlobalGolf. You can get like-new clubs for 40-70% off retail.
Share Clubs with a Partner
Sharing a full golf club set with a spouse or regular playing partner means you can split the cost while still having access to a full 14 clubs. Look for gender neutral Woods and hybrids you can share while getting fitted for your own tailored driver, irons and wedges.
Buy Discount Balls in Bulk
Golf balls are pricey, especially premium models from leading brands. But you can save a ton by buying previous-generation ball models in bulk quantities. Look for surplus overruns and discontinued versions online or in discount retailers.
Bring Your Own Food and Drink
The food and beverage service at clubs is a huge profit center, so you’ll find inflated prices in the grillroom and beverage cart. Bring your own snacks, sandwiches and water in a cooler pack to avoid these high costs and save money.
With so many ways to get excellent golf club deals and discounts, you can enjoy all the benefits of the club experience while maximizing value. Try some of these strategies above to keep more money in your pocket and get the most bang for your buck.
Ask About Group Booking Deals
If you have a regular crew you like to golf with, inquire with the club about discounts for group bookings. Many will offer special rates if you book tee times for a minimum number of players. This rewards their group business.
Check Corporate Membership Options
Does your company have a corporate membership or discounted rates through a corporate partner program? Take advantage of these business ties, which can unlock preferred access and lower prices for employees.
Gather a Foursome for Discount Pricing
Even if a group rate isn’t advertised, many clubs will still extend a courtesy discount for a foursome booking. Call ahead to check availability and mention you’ll be reserving for a full tee time to score a deal.
Book Outings for Large Groups
For big gatherings like charity events, client outings, or golf trips, you can often negotiate fantastic bulk pricing by buying out the entire course for the day. Packages may include golf, carts, range access, meals, and more.
Plan a Golf Club Crawl
Get a group together and play a different local course each week or month. Call ahead to ask about rates for your returning group if you book repeat tee times. Trying new courses is fun too!
Schedule a Family and Friends Weekend
Rally your golf buddies and family members for a club weekend getaway. Work with the director of golf at your chosen destination to customize a group package with amenities, meals, discounts and more.
Join a Golf League
Leagues represent steady business for clubs, so joining a league can mean lower prices, unlimited golf, and regular tee times. Have fun competing against fellow members and bonding over weekly matches.
Plan a Golf Clinic and Mixer
For a corporate or charity event, schedule a multi-station clinic followed by a golf scramble event. This is a great way to build camaraderie through instruction and on-course competition.
Hold a Golf Outing Fundraiser
Charity golf tournaments are a popular fundraiser event. Work with the club to organize a shotgun start, contests, raffles, auction and meals. This is a feel-good event golfers love to support.
Organize a College Reunion Outing
For an upcoming class reunion, put together a golf outing event for classmates, spouses and friends. Schedule time for golf, mingling, photo ops, contest holes and dining to maximize fun.
Take a Buddy Trip
Few bonds are stronger than golf trips with close friends. Plan an annual guys trip to a new destination each year. Look for package deals that include lodging, golf, food and entertainment.
Go on a Couples Golf Weekend
Make great memories and deepen connections by planning a couples golf getaway. Many clubs offer pairing packages for lodging, activities and couples tee times. Romance awaits!
Create Your Own League
Rally a regular group of golfing friends to form your own club league. Schedule weekly matches, talk trash on group chat, and keep stats. Having a committed league locks in tee times and participation.
Take a Golf Lesson Together
Instead of individual instruction, take a small group lesson with friends at the same skill level. Learn together and make improvement more fun. Most clubs happily accommodate group lessons.
Book a Corporate Golf Day
Boost employee relations by organizing a company-wide golf event. Schedule a clinic, tournament, contests, and awards dinner. Camaraderie and deals await when booking group corporate days.
Plan an Annual Golf Trip
Choose an enticing destination each year for an annual golf trip with friends. Look for package deals that include discounted tee times, shared accommodations, meals and more. Build lasting memories.
Group golf bookings are a win-win, providing clubs with volume business and golfers with camaraderie and discounts. Rally your crew and reap the rewards of great deals on amazing golf experiences together.
Consider Membership Incentives
To attract new members, many clubs will offer deals like waived initiation fees, free dues for a period of time, and complimentary services for new members. Be sure to ask about any current membership incentives when exploring clubs to join.
Check for Referral Bonuses
Does the club offer a referral program? You may get a discount on dues or club cash credit for referring friends and family who join. Bringing in new members earns existing members perks.
See If Dues Decrease Over Time
Some clubs structure dues on a sliding scale, with fees decreasing the longer you remain a member. This rewards loyalty and retention year after year. Lower costs over time provide nice savings.
Consider a Trial Membership
To allow potential members to test drive the club, trial memberships give access for a limited period like 3 or 6 months. This is a low risk way to experience the benefits before committing long term.
Ask About Add-On Perks
Maximize value by looking for extra perks bundled with membership like range access, merchandise discounts, guest passes, club storage, lessons, events and more. Perks add up to increase overall savings.
See If You Qualify for Resident Rates
For clubs located within a housing development, inquire about discounted resident member rates if you live in the attached community. This encourages local membership and participation.
Review Different Membership Levels
Clubs may offer tiered memberships with different offerings and costs like social, weekday, Sunday only, etc. Choose the level with the right mix of access and affordability to meet your needs.
Look at Reciprocal Programs
Your membership may allow you to play at affiliated clubs when traveling. Multi-course access means more variety and chances to play renowned courses at member rates.
See If Family Discounts Apply
For adding multiple family members, clubs may deduct a percentage off each additional membership. Multi-generational members are valuable for member retention too.
Get Certificates for Meeting Goals
Some clubs reward continued participation by issuing account credits or certificates for meeting rounds played, lesson hours, range visits,etc. Usage milestones deliver savings.
Check for Loyalty Rewards
The longer you retain membership, the more you may unlock special loyalty rewards, discounts and VIP access. Tenure earns extra perks over time.
See If You Can Split Fees
To reduce cost, consider sharing a membership with a spouse or partner if allowed. With schedules that complement, you can split the fees but both enjoy access.
Maximize Monthly Credit Allowances
If dues come with a monthly pro shop or restaurant credit, be diligent about fully utilizing the credit each month to maximize the value of that perk.
Purchase an Equity Membership
This membership route allows you to eventually get your initiation fee back and earn voting rights. While pricier upfront, equity members get more in return long term.
Qualify for Special Discounts
Some clubs extend membership discounts to juniors, students, military, seniors, employees, etc. See if any discounted demographics apply to you or family members.
From initiation deals to rewards programs, be sure to explore all the membership incentives and discounts you may qualify for. Asking the right questions will uncover the best value.
Negotiate Multi-Round Packages
To maximize savings at your favorite club, negotiate customized multi-round packages tailored to your specific golfing needs. Purchasing bulk rounds upfront can unlock preferred pricing and benefits.
Buy Rounds in Bulk
Just like buying in bulk yields savings at the grocery store, you can save per round by purchasing bulk golf rounds at one time. Multi-round packages earn reduced rates.
Lock In Times for a Season
For a regular game time each week with your foursome, negotiate a seasonal package locking in those coveted weekend morning tee times at a discount. Secure access upfront.
Get Flexible Round Coupon Books
Instead of committing to specific rounds and times, look for clubs offering discount coupon books valid for a certain number of rounds to be played anytime in the future during the season.
Share Packages to Split Costs
Find a golf partner and go halfsies on a bulk shared multi-round package to play together. Cost splitting makes the deal even sweeter.
Use Rounds at Multiple Courses
To add variety, find packaged deals allowing you to spread prepaid rounds across different courses under common ownership. Multi-course access enhances the value.
Add On Cart Rentals
Negotiate an upgraded package deal that bundles discounted cart fees with each prepaid round. The convenience of riding is worth a few extra dollars.
Include Range and Practice Facilities
Look for special packages offering complimentary access to the practice range, short game area, clinics, training aids, club rentals, etc. to enhance your deal.
Bundle Lessons and Club Fittings
For maximum improvement and enjoyment, upgrade your package to include discounted lessons, seminars, professional club fittings, and more. Invest in your game.
Add Food and Beverage Credits
Negotiate complimentary dining credits, drink tickets, or pub passes to use in the club restaurant and bar area with each purchased round in your package.
Get Retail Discounts and Credits
Bundle in special pricing in the pro shop for gear, apparel and accessories to upgrade your golf wardrobe and equipment as part of the package.
Enjoy VIP Access and Benefits
Multi-round purchasers often unlock preferred reservation access, club storage, locker rooms, bag handling, and other elite member-like privileges.
Book Offseason Rounds at Lower Rates
Plan ahead by negotiating attractive offseason pricing as part of an annual package. Lock in savings on future rounds for the following spring now.
Earn Loyalty Points and Rewards
Bulk purchase packages provide opportunities to accrue points to redeem for free benefits and merchandise. Earn rewards for your loyalty and spending.
Pay Upfront to Earn the Best Discount
Opt to pay 100% upfront instead of installments to maximize the discount. Prepaying saves the club processing fees and earns you the lowest price per round.
With strategic negotiating and packaged purchasing, you can maximize value, convenience, and savings on all your golf. Seek out multi-round bulk deals to get the most bang for your buck.