Planning a golf getaway can be one of the most rewarding travel experiences you have. The destinations, the courses, the people – the combination has nearly unmatched potential. But between greens fees, meals, and flights, it’s easy to lose track of spending. That’s why creating a clear golf trip budget on a per-person basis is essential to a successful golf getaway.
Whether you’re heading to Scottsdale, Pinehurst, or a hidden gem, the right budget plan ensures a smoother trip and fewer surprises. This guide breaks down each expense category, showing how to create a practical and fair golf getaway travel budget for your group on a per person basis (based on 2025 costs). And if you begin your planning 9 months ahead as we recommend, your group will have plenty of time to build their budget.
Transportation: Getting There Without Overspending
You’ve picked your destination but now you need to get there. Transportation is the first major item in any travel budget. How your group travels—by plane, train, or automobile—sets the tone for total costs.
- Flights and luggage: Expect $250–$600 for domestic round trips. Add $70-140 per bag roundtrip if you’re bringing golf clubs.
- Shipping clubs: using services like Ship Sticks to ship clubs to your destination without stress of potential airport baggage damage can cost up to $180 round trip
- Trains: For regional golf getaways, rail travel may cost $50–$150 per person but may require additional consideration for golf club storage.
- Car rentals: A mid-size SUV or van runs $80–$120 per day. Split four ways, that’s about $25 per person daily.
- Gas: if you’re driving to your destination, per mileage cost can be $0.20-0.30 per mile. Don’t forget to consider the driving mileage in and around your destination.
- Rideshares or taxis: Plan for $50–$150 total per person for short trips between courses or restaurants, depending on the number of days, rides needed, distance, and people in your group.
If you’re flying into a golf resort, check for shuttles before renting a car. For bigger groups, two SUVs often beat one large van in both cost and flexibility.
Accommodations: Balancing Comfort and Cost
Lodging is usually the next major part of your golf getaway budget. Deciding between luxury and value options helps you align comfort with spending expectations.
Budget-friendly vs luxury:
- Vacation rental – house or condo: $75–$200 per person per night
- Mid-tier resort: $200–$400 per person per night
- High-end destination: $500+ per person per night
Shared spaces vs private rooms:
A rental house for eight golfers at $1,000 a night equals $125 per person—half the price of separate hotel rooms. However, if privacy or on course accommodations are a priority, expect to spend more.
When planning your travel budget, remember that proximity to courses can add value. A short drive saves time and transportation costs.
Golf Courses: The Core of Your Golf Getaway
Your rounds are the heart of your golf getaway travel budget. Prices depend on course prestige and seasonality. Course bookings can easily be the most expensive individual cost of any golf trip.
- Top-tier courses: $250–$500 per round
- Moderate courses: $125–$250 per round
- Local public courses: $60–$120 per round
Most groups play three to four rounds on a four-day trip. A sample plan might include 2-3 moderate rounds and 1 premium course, averaging around $500 to $1000+ per person. Look for multi-round deals, replay rates, or twilight discounts. Many golf destinations offer these for groups, and they can save hundreds over a full itinerary.
Meals: Feeding the Crew Without Blowing the Budget
Food is another big line item in your golf getaway travel budget, and how you handle meals can swing costs dramatically.
Meal style options:
- Takeout or fast casual: $15–$25 per meal
- Sit-down restaurants: $30–$60 per meal
- Upscale dining: $75+ per meal
Groceries and prep:
Stocking your rental kitchen helps keep costs predictable. A shared grocery run typically totals $50–$100 per person for breakfasts, snacks, and simple dinners for a 4-day rental.
Over four days, a balanced per-person food budget looks like this:
- Budget-conscious: $150–$250
- Mid-range: $250-$400
- Upscale: $400+
Groups often mix casual lunches and one or two special dinners. It keeps things fun while keeping your travel budget under control.
Activities: Beyond the Fairways
A great golf getaway isn’t all about golf. Including a little downtime or non-golf activity makes the trip feel complete. Common add-ons include:
- Bars and nightlife: $25–$75 per night
- Excursions and events: $50–$150 each
- Shopping or souvenirs: $50–$100
If your group enjoys post-round entertainment, plan ahead. Having a small “fun fund” in your travel budget avoids overspending once the trip starts.
Miscellaneous: The Forgotten Costs That Add Up
It’s easy to overlook the small items that can quietly inflate your total spend. Budgeting for them early keeps your golf getaway finances realistic.
- Drinks and snacks: $25–$50 per person for the house or cooler
- Golf accessories: Balls, tees, extra glove—around $50–$100 each
- Tips: Caddies, attendants, and drivers usually expect $10–$20 per round
- Side Bets: group competitions can add a little extra fun so expect $25-$150 per person
Setting up a small shared fund through Venmo or cash envelopes works great for communal expenses. It prevents confusion later.
Sample Per-Person Travel Budget
Here’s an example golf getaway travel budget for a four-night trip with eight golfers:
These are two extremes with a wide-variety in between. The variability in lodging options, course costs, numbers of rounds, and food decisions can have major implications to your expected budget, which is why planning is so essential.
Getting the Most From Your Travel Budget
Every golf group is different, but the smartest planners think in ranges, not absolutes. Set a travel budget that’s firm on essentials but flexible on experiences.
You can save money by:
- Traveling midweek instead of weekends
- Trying off-peak regions
- Booking afternoon or replay rounds
- Sharing groceries instead of dining out nightly
- Booking early to lock in lower lodging and airfare
Your golf getaway doesn’t need to be extravagant to be memorable. The best trips blend smart planning with great company and good courses.
Final Thoughts: Planning Smart for Your Next Golf Getaway
A well-built travel budget makes your golf getaway less stressful and more enjoyable. It gives everyone clarity, avoids awkward money talks, and helps your group focus on what matters most—great golf and great memories.
Whether you’re chasing bucket-list courses or a relaxed regional loop, a transparent per-person budget is the foundation of a successful golf trip. Build it early, share it clearly, and stick to it once the tee times are booked. Your future self—and your wallet—will thank you.