There’s golf travel—and then there’s Scotland golf travel. The birthplace of the game, a land of links and legends where golf isn’t just a sport, it’s a way of life. If you’re planning the trip of a lifetime to play courses like St Andrews, Royal Dornoch, or Muirfield, here are Balls & Bogeys’ top 10 things you need to consider before you book.
1. Hire an Experienced Tour Operator
This is your once-in-a-lifetime trip—don’t leave it to chance. Partner with a trusted golf tour operator that has an overwhelmingly positive reputation and deep relationships with Scotland’s premier courses. The best operators handle everything—tee times, accommodations, transport, and even caddies—so all you need to do is show up ready to play. We’ve worked with Scotland Golf Tours and Garmany Golf. Both are highly regarded and recommended by our team.
2. Ask Around for Recommendations
Word of mouth goes a long way in golf. Talk to friends, members, or even friends of friends who’ve made the trip. You’ll get insider advice on tour operators, great places to stay, play, and dine, as well as what to avoid. There’s no substitute for first-hand experience.
3. Plan a Realistic, All-In Budget
Don’t just think about airfare and green fees. Your full budget should include travel insurance, hotels, transfers, caddie fees, meals, drinks, souvenirs, and even that last-minute rain jacket you’ll inevitably need. Scotland’s not cheap—but it’s worth every penny when planned properly.
4. Sacrifice on the Hotel, Not the Golf
If you’re going to cut costs somewhere, skip the five-star hotel and invest in the best golf your schedule (and wallet) allows. You’ll spend most of your time on the course, in the clubhouse, or traveling between rounds anyway. A clean, comfortable room and a hearty breakfast (which all quality hotels include in the stay) will do the trick.
5. Time It Right: Scotland Has a Short Weather Window
Scotland’s golf season is short and sweet. May through early October offers the best combination of daylight, course conditions, and (relatively) forgiving weather. Even then—pack for all four seasons knowing you’ll experience them all in a single day at least once on your trip.
6. Do Your Homework: Research & Watch
Preparation builds excitement. Watch the Open Championship. Watch course flyovers and travel vlogs on YouTube—No Laying Up’s Scotland series is a must—and check out the Golf Digest and Golf Magazine Top 100 in the World lists. You’ll get a sense of which layouts are most iconic and which ones suit your style.
7. Treat It Like a Once-in-a-Lifetime Trip
For many golfers, Scotland is the pilgrimage. Make the most of every minute—whether that’s adding an extra round, exploring a historic castle, or simply soaking in the view from the 18th at St Andrews. You may never come back, so don’t rush through it.
8. Choose the Right Travel Companions
A golf trip is only as good as the company you keep. Go with people whose energy, humor, and attitude will make the long travel days and tough weather enjoyable. Nothing can derail a dream trip faster than a bad attitude in the group. Or, find a sugar daddy and deal with them. Sometimes free bucket list golf trumps quality dinner companions. Sometimes.
9. You’ll Need to Pack Like a Pro (and Then Pack Again)
This may cost you, so budget for a new Scotland wardrobe. Layers. Waterproof. Windproof. You will get wet. You will get cold. Be prepared. You’ll need to invest in a solid rain suit, warm base layers, waterproof golf shoes, and a backup pair in case one gets soaked. Scotland rewards the well-prepared. Pro tip: Don’t leave the Aleve behind. After all the walking—and drinking—you need to take something to curb your ails.
10. Capture the Memories—But Stay Present
Another budget consideration: Make sure you bring along the newest and greatest mobile phone or a smaller camera. Take tons of photos and videos, but don’t forget to look up and appreciate where you are. When you’re standing on the first tee at St Andrews or watching the sunset over Royal Troon, be in the moment. The photos will be great—but the memories will be even better.
Resources to Read, Watch, and Listen Before You Go
Here are a few essential sources to fuel your planning and excitement:
YouTube Channels:
- No Laying Up – Scotland Travel Series
- Rick Shiels Golf – Course vlogs and travel guides
- Golf Monthly – Scotland golf course spotlights
Articles & Lists:
- Golf Digest – Top 100 Courses in the World
- Golf Magazine – The Best Courses in Scotland
- VisitScotland.com – Official travel and golf info
Podcasts:
- The Fried Egg Golf Podcast – Destination golf deep dives
- No Laying Up Podcast – Scotland recap episodes
- Beyond the Clubhouse – Interviews with golf travelers and pros
Final Thought
A trip to Scotland is the ultimate golf experience—raw, rugged, authentic, and unforgettable. Plan it right, travel with great people, and embrace every unpredictable moment. After all, this is where golf began—and where every true golfer should play at least once.