Golf vacation planning: How to pack for a trip to Orlando
Planning for that Orlando golf trip? Knowing what to pack in the bag will make your Florida golf vacation that much easier.
Everyone seems to find themselves in Orlando eventually, whether it's bringing the family to theme parks like Disney World or Universal Studios, or tending to business at the sprawling Orange County Convention Center.
Or perhaps you're just coming for a golf trip alone. Orlando's golf courses and resorts helps the city showcase itself as one of America's top destinations.
Central Florida's climate is golf-friendly year round, but visiting in the summer compared to the winter months can make for very different packing options. Summers are hot every day, but winters can be unpredictable. If you're traveling between December and March, be sure to bring some long pants and warm-weather golf gear in case of a cold front.
Most restaurants in Orlando are resort casual, so you can leave the suit at home unless you're on business. A good pair of sneakers for a day in the theme parks is a must.
Here's a few more pointers on how to plan for your golf vacation to Orlando:
Orlando golf vacation packing tips
Bring your GPS unit: If you're flying down to Orlando, chances are you'll be renting a car. If so, bring your GPS unit from home if you have one, because Orlando's golf courses are spread out up to an hour outside the city, and you can use the unit to help navigate around tolls, too.
The rental car companies usually have GPS units for rent, but they can charge $10-$20 per day of use, so after a week, you could have bought your own unit.
Toll cash: Orange County's roads are filled with tolls, so if you don't have a SunPass sticker, be sure to stock your car with loose change, and keep small bills handy to avoid delays.
Sunscreen and repellent: You'll want to buy sunscreen before you leave, because if you're caught buying some at a theme park or resort, chances are you'll pay double (or more) for it. Some of the swampier golf courses will have mosquitoes, so bring insect repellent.
Both are liquids, so remember to pack them in your checked luggage, because if it's in the carry-on, it will be thrown out if the container is bigger than four ounces.
Pack your rain gear: Summers in Orlando are hot - and wet. Florida gets what seems like a daily, brief afternoon thundershower during the hot and humid months, so bring your wet gear. Even if you get chased off the course due to lightning, you'll want to keep your grips and clothes dry.
Also, try and leave the heavier cotton polos at home in favor of mesh, lightweight material. Some golf shirts even offer UV protection. A good golf cap will also help protect your face from getting toasted.
Last-minute tee time helper: Smartphone users, keep a bookmark on www.FloridaGolf.com/tee-times, where you can find last-minute tee time specials at many area golf courses.
November 4, 2009
Brandon Tucker, Managing Editor
Brandon Tucker is the Managing Editor for Golf Advisor. To date, his golf travels have taken him to over two dozen countries and over 500 golf courses worldwide. While he's played some of the most prestigious courses in the world, Tucker's favorite way to play the game is on a great muni in under three hours. Follow Brandon on Twitter at @BrandonTucker and on Instagram at BrandonTuckerGC.