Off-season golf trips—they are essential for Canadians trying to escape as the seasons change and we struggle to find a course not covered in snow. Whether it is a late-season (or early-season, for that matter) trip to Scotland, or heading to Mexico, the Dominican Republic or South Carolina for golf, you’re going to want to ensure you’ve prepared appropriately.

A great travel bag is essential

Everything starts with how you pack your clubs. Whether you’re considering a bag from Club Glove or something with wheels like one from Sun Mountain, consider how you travel before snapping up a bag. Bigger travel bags are great for including extra clothes and shoes, meaning you might be able to get away with only a carry-on, tucking everything else away in your travel bag. That said, smaller travel bags that fold away easily are important if you’re in a smaller rental car where space is at a premium. You should also consider a stiff arm, designed to protect your longer clubs. Some even unscrew the head off their driver and wrap it in a towel to keep it protected.

Extra shoes

 If you’re heading to an area where walking a course is key (think Scotland or Ireland), you’re going to want to consider a second pair of shoes, as well as toss in some extra socks. A fresh pair of golf shoes, especially if you’re the type that likes to play an extra round, will make your feet happy—and make sure you change socks between rounds. Your feet will thank you.

Keeping the sun away

Traveling south, whether it is Florida or Mexico, is a great escape for Canadian golfers stranded by snow. Think ahead—you may have taken your sunscreen out of your golf bag as the season wrapped, but you’ll want to put a new one in your golf bag to keep from getting burned. In fact, this presents a great opportunity to stock up supplies in your golf bag—consider a waterproof bag that contains some pain medication, band-aids, sunscreen, and potentially some tape. Why tape? Every seen Tiger Woods’ fingers? Tape can keep you playing if those nasty blisters crop up.

Headwear

Sure, you can grab a hat at the club you’re playing, but consider tucking one away in your travel bag just in case. Having a hat in your travel bag will allow you to keep the sun off your head—and keep your head in the game. Great options from the likes of Under Armour or Nike never go out of style.

Rainwear

 Regardless of whether you’re heading to the sometimes rainy climes of Ireland, or the sun of Jamaica, you’re going to want to have rainwear packed in your bag. Consider your destination—if you’re heading somewhere that might be cooler (think Myrtle Beach or Pinehurst), you’ll want a long sleeve rain jacket from FootJoy or adidas. If you’re heading somewhere warm, consider a breathable short-sleeve jacket that can be readily tucked away in your golf bag when not in use.