| Buying golf equipment can be like dumping money into | | | | both features. There are big bags, bigger bags and |
| a money pit, but armed with some knowledge you can | | | | bags so big that they would keep everything I need for |
| save time and money in selecting the right clubs for | | | | a long weekend vacation in one of the side pockets! |
| yourself. As with most things in life, you can spend a | | | | Generally speaking, you need a bag just large enough |
| lot or you can spend a little several times before you | | | | to hold your clubs, extra balls, your glove, tees, car |
| get what you really need. | | | | keys, extra pencils, ball markers, a ball retriever, |
| If you are first starting out and not completely sure you | | | | sunscreen, a windbreaker and a large umbrella. It is |
| want to commit to this addictive game, you should | | | | also a good idea to have a packet of tissues, a |
| either rent clubs at the golf course, or buy a starter set | | | | band-aid or two, and if you play courses where |
| of clubs. | | | | insects are a problem, a can of bug repellent comes in |
| Buying a set of started clubs enables you to become | | | | very handy. |
| accustomed to them; enabling you to concentrate on | | | | A small pack of baby wipes come in very handy; in |
| your swing instead of wondering how this set of | | | | your bag they get warmed by the heat, so when you |
| miss-matched clubs you just rented are going to work | | | | get sweaty or a sand trap covered you with sand, a |
| out. | | | | nice warm wipe can be very refreshing. |
| As you become better at the game, you should invest | | | | I happen to be allergic to bees, hornets and wasps, so |
| in a better set of clubs, fitted to you. Generally, a set | | | | my Epipen is an important addition to my bag. I am also |
| includes a driver, one or two fairway woods, 4-9 irons, | | | | hypoglycemic so I carry Lifesavers, which has to be |
| a wedge or two and perhaps a putter. | | | | replaced several times throughout the year because |
| As you become more experienced and start thinking | | | | they tend to melt. |
| about new clubs, you may want to consider buying | | | | One item that doesn't need to be in your golf bag is |
| your driver separately. Some players want a driver to | | | | your cell phone. If you must carry it, turn off the ringer |
| give them more accuracy; some need the distance. | | | | as a courtesy to other players. If you must use it, be |
| There are numerous balls available and the box will | | | | aware of others who might be taking a swing or |
| usually have a chart on the back and direct you to the | | | | putting their ball. Be considerate! |
| right ball for your needs. As you learn the game and | | | | Having these items in your golf bag should provide |
| get better at it, you should experiment with different | | | | everything you will need, even in a minor emergency |
| balls which could improve your accuracy or distance. | | | | (like a blister) or a major inconvenience, like a sudden |
| There are many golf bags available, some designed | | | | rainstorm. Being prepared makes the game a great |
| for fashion, some for utility and some that combine | | | | deal more fun. |