What to keep in your golf bag.
There are many golf bags available; some are designed for fashion, some for utility and some that combine both features. There are big bags, bigger bags and bags so big that they would keep everything I need for a long week-end vacation in one of the side pockets!
Generally speaking, you need a bag which is just large enough to hold your clubs, extra balls, your glove, tees, car keys, extra pencils, ball markers, a ball retriever, sunscreen, a windbreaker and a large umbrella.
It is also recommended that you carry in your bag: some tissue paper, sticking plasters and, whether necessary or not, some insect repellant.
A small pack of wipes can be just what you need too if it gets hot or you get covered with sand in one of the bunkers or you have to fish your ball out of a stream.
Other things that could come in useful are certain drugs: for instance, antihistamine, if you are allergic to wasp stings or medication to counteract an illness like diabetes (if you suffer from it, that is). It is vital to remember to replace these medicines before their expiry date though.
Please remember to turn off your mobile phone before you put it away as a courtesy to the other players. No one is going to be best pleased to hear your phone go off just as he is about to take a shot. It is part of golfing etiquette too. If you must use it, walk away from the teams.
Knowing that you are prepared for most of the minor problems that can arise while you are out on the course will help you to enjoy your game. And the game is mostly about being relaxed. You are prepared for bee stings, ant bites, blisters and rain, so you can get on with your game safe in that knowledge!