Planning a golf tour can be an exhilarating experience, but with so many options available, it’s essential to choose the right one to ensure your trip is as enjoyable and seamless as possible. From flexible booking policies to thoughtful off-course experiences, there’s much to consider when picking the perfect golf getaway. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision on your next golfing adventure.

The Devil’s in the Details

One of the biggest mistakes travelers make when booking a golf tour is overlooking the fine print. For example, an operator might advertise "all-inclusive dinners," but this could range from a simple meal at the clubhouse to an upscale dining experience. Or "airport transfers included" only to find out its a scheduled time of departure meaning you are left waiting for an hour or two at the airport. If the itinerary is vague, you may receive less than anticipated. Always review the details of what's included, and if you're unsure, ask for clarification. Understanding exactly what's covered, from the quality of meals to transfers and extra activities, will help you avoid surprises and ensure a refined, enjoyable experience.

Flexibility: Understand the Terms and Conditions

Terms and conditions are often overlooked but can make a significant difference to your experience. Some destinations are very strict when it comes to group bookings and won't allow a refund, and in some instances it's the operators themselves who impose hefty cancellation fees or offer limited flexibility for date changes. We've seen plenty, and would say the standard cancellation policy often involve losing your deposit or paying admin fees as high as $200 a person to cancel.

It’s essential to check these details upfront, ensuring you understand your options should you need to cancel or reschedule. A company with transparent and flexible policies will offer you peace of mind, especially if your plans change unexpectedly.

The Experience Beyond the Course

Golf tours are about more than just the rounds you play or the hotel you stay in. A truly memorable experience often comes from the extra touches. For instance, high-quality tours may offer golf club valet services, meaning you won’t have to worry about lugging your gear around, or personalised caddy arrangements, where experienced, knowledgeable caddies are hand-picked to enhance your game.

Off-course experiences can elevate your trip as well—private dinners hosted by the head chef with exclusive off-menu options, or room upgrades to provide extra comfort. These thoughtful additions make the difference between a good tour and a great one.

Find out also the size of the group and who is travelling, as it's not just the tour inclusions that make a great tour but also the people you travel with.

Do Some Research: Size and Service Matter

When booking a tour, it’s important to research the company behind it. Larger organisations often provide a polished, professional service, but as they grow, they can lose the personal touch that smaller, family-run businesses are known for. Smaller operators often excel in customer service, offering more personalised experiences and attention to detail. However, It’s important to recognise that many smaller operators struggled during the COVID-19 pandemic, with some not surviving. Supporting these smaller businesses can help keep competition fair and maintain the unique, high-quality service they often provide.

That said, there’s a balance to strike. While a small operator might give you a more intimate experience, it’s still important to weigh up how professional and reliable they are. Have they taken the time to earn relevant accreditations like membership with any external body such as the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO)? Do they have good reviews and positive feedback? Checking these details will help you find the right blend of personal service and professionalism.

Be Careful with Reviews: Check Reliable Sources

When researching reviews, it’s crucial to be aware that not all review platforms are equally reliable. Many online reviews can be faked or manipulated, especially on websites where businesses have more control over the feedback displayed. Google Reviews, however, is one of the more trustworthy sources because it’s part of a search engine, not a business platform. Google has strict measures in place to verify reviews, ensuring more honest, transparent feedback. When researching a tour operator, focus on platforms like Google that prioritise freedom of information and provide a more accurate reflection of customer experiences.

Choose the Destination, Fall in Love with the Journey

Choosing the right golf tour is about more than just finding great courses and accommodation. It’s about all the little touch points that add up along the way to create an experience to remember. Remember to also read the fine print so you know what you're signing up for, and researching the tour operator’s reputation. Support smaller operators when possible, but also make sure they are professional and reliable by checking for accreditations, genuine reviews and a community of loyal supporters. Ensure the tour host for the tour has experience but as you'll be spending a lot of time, make sure they are also a pleasure to be around. By doing your homework and paying attention to these details, you’ll set yourself up for a stress-free and memorable golf holiday.