I’ve always dreamt of being a country club member – picturing an oak lined smoking room, crystal sparkling dining areas, mahogany lockers in the changing rooms, and a plush course with all day Playing privileges.

Unfortunately, I don’t have the finances, time, nor connections for this dream to materialize, but I’ve found a way to get close through purchasing a season golfing pass!

If you’ve considered such an investment here are some things to consider before making your purchase.

Course Selections

While many golf courses offer some form of playing pass it’s rare, but not unheard of, that the benefits can be used at other courses.

Consider if you primarily want to play only one course. You’ll find you may not want to pay to tee it up somewhere else if you have a playing privileges to a specific club.

If there are no other local courses, or your course is the best or has more than eighteen holes, then this may be a no-brainer of a decision.

If your pass is valid at multiple courses then all the better!

Playing Options

There are differing package options at courses. Some only allow you to play during the weekday while others are only weekends. There are morning or afternoon only options also. I’ve seen retirees/senior, junior, or local resident only deals. Consider your personal schedule and what type of play fits your needs.

Tee Times

Restrictions can be in force for your membership, such as only being able to book tee times 48 hours in advance. Maybe the course has online reservations for the public although pass holders need to phone in. Make sure to know the requirements and be confident you can follow the rules without undue hardships.

Carts

Courses have individual rules regarding golf carts. Some require motorized carts for any round, others make it mandatory just on weekends or before noon, and there are those that only permit push carts or walking.

While the option to use a cart may not be up to you, neither may the cost. Some golf plans include free or discounted cart rentals. If you must pay for a cart on every round take that into your consideration before purchasing access.

If you prefer to walk and your course doesn’t allow such then this may not be a good match.

Amenities

Does the course offer an outdoor patio, gathering area, or pavilion where you can kick back and enjoy the sights and sounds when not playing? How about showers or locker rooms, golf bag storage, club cleaning, caddies, refreshments, snack shack on the course, or any other special item that enhances the membership?

Range and practice areas

Some golf practice facilities are nicer than the actual course, having large and immaculately maintained putting areas, challenging sand play practice holes, and a variety of long and short-range targets. This may be part of the annual membership but it’s another item to consider.

Restaurant

If you plan on spending a lot of time at your course you may need some nourishment periodically. A well-prepared meal before or after a round can make the day very enjoyable, although if your course has nothing to eat but hotdogs and chips then you may be disappointed. If the restaurant has fine dining you can even turn your after-round time into a date night. And check if your membership entitles you to any food or beverage discount.

Meeting Room/Hall/Banquet Facility

There are times when you may want to host an event for your family, friends, or work associates and your home isn’t the right venue. Does your course offer a location for use, and if so is there a cost or a discount for pass-holders?

Clinics

Some courses with professional teachers may provide regular clinics covering different parts of the golf game. Are these only for members and is there a cost or are discounts given for pass-holders? Time spent at these events could help elevate your game, or at least help with a problem swing.

Education

Aside from technical classes on your golf swing take advantage of classes given on the rules of golf or even golf etiquette. Professional education in these areas is hard to come by. Again, check if these events are free to pass-holders or if you receive an opportunity for advance signup.

Handicapping

Interested in a certified golf handicap (GHIN)? Whether you plan on entering professional events or just prefer to be able to back up your claim to a specific index consider acquiring this. Most clubs can assist in the score tracking, paperwork, and filing necessary to earn your certificate. See if this is a free or discounted service.

Golfing Events

Golfing is great even by yourself but getting involved in a league, outing, or event can sweeten the experience. Often pass-holders are given advance options to sign up or are the only ones permitted to play in annual or special events.

Pro shop

When you need to purchase or repair golf equipment, buy accessories or clothing, does your club have a variety of choices that are market price or better? It’s easier to grab a dozen golf balls before a round as you’re checking in than remembering to hit the golf discount store on your way to the course. Check if pass-holders receive any discounts.

Friends and Family

Golf can be a social sport, and that means playing with others. Are you looking for golf minded people to spend time with? A club may be the way to go.

Do you already have lots of friend or family you play with? Do they receive any discount for playing on your course?

Off Season

In most areas of the country golf is not a year-round sport. What does the course do in the off season? Are there special pass-holders events? Are there indoor simulators you can use and are they free or discounted? Or does the course close, leaving you in the cold.

Bonus

Are there any special offers associated with purchasing a year pass, such as free clothing, gear, or cart rentals?

Cost!

Prices vary from thousands of dollars to as little as around one hundred dollars a year, depending on your area and factors above. While you may not play enough golf in a season to offset the cost of just paying for each round individually there are other reasons to pay the extra amount to purchase a season pass. Enjoyability of the added benefits have a value that’s can’t easily be calculated. Also consider how a membership can help advance your game and golf goals.

For me, purchasing an annual unlimited playing pass from Fairways Golf Management was a big win. It offers me unlimited golf at five courses, provides opportunities to learn, introduces me to new players, and pushes me to be a better golfer.

Do you take advantage of season playing passes for your golf game?

What do you find are the benefits or adverse features?