How Internet Can Help You Play Golf on the Cheap
A golf ball directly before the hole (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
According to Golfsmith.com, the average cost of one round of golf is $36. If the course you’re playing on happens to be relatively new or if you’re golfing on a weekend, the cost will probably be higher than that. So, if you participate frequently, playing the game can really break the bank.
However, there is good news. With the help of the Internet, there are several things you can do to lower the overall cost of the game. Typically, the more time you devote to research, the more money you’ll save.
Find an Affordable Course
Finding an affordable golf course online is as easy as searching for all of the courses in your area and then visiting each website. Look for a link or tab that says “promotions” or “specials” and go from there.
Some golf courses send out email newsletters that contain discounts and special offers. It only takes a minute or two to sign up. It’s the best way to keep up with whatever is going on at your favorite golfing hang-out.
Buy Golf Balls in Bulk
Many golfers save money on the game by buying golf balls in bulk. These can be logo balls that are no longer being distributed, balls never delivered due to printing errors or overstock merchandise. As long as these balls are in good condition, there’s absolutely no reason not to use them.
Another option is to purchase used balls from the golf course itself. These are balls that are left behind by golfers and retrieved by groundskeepers on a regular basis. Many of these balls are brand name. Remember, a slightly used Titleist ball is just as good as one right out of the package. Let one man’s laziness be your good fortune.
Locating Golf-Related Deals
Sometimes you can find golf-related deals on sites like Groupon. As these sites continue to grow, the scope of offers become more diverse. Sign-up is easy. It typically only requires your email address and your zip code. You can then use the site’s search function to look for all kinds of deals.
Golf forums are another possibility. Almost every major golf site has one. Sign-up, introduce yourself and start reading. It probably won’t take long for you to find threads relating to saving money on the game you love.
Barter Your Products or Services
If you sell your own products or perform a service that people are interested in, you might want to consider the possibility of bartering for the golf-related things that you need. For example, if you’re a house painter, you may be able to trade painting a room for a used set of clubs.
There are many websites and forums that are dedicated to bartering. The majority of them are free to join. Simply sign-up and then post what you are looking for and what you are offering in return. Chances are quite high that you’ll be pleased with the results.
Buying Used Equipment
Sites such as Craigslist and eBay are excellent places to start, when you’re in the market for used golf equipment. It’s relatively simple to find everything from golf tees to golf balls and everything in between.
On Craigslist, you can either look through the items that people list for sale or post your own want ad. If and when you find something that you’re interested in purchasing, ask for a lower price. Many times, because sellers need the money they are willing to take less than their post indicates.
These are just a few ways that you can utilize the Internet to save money on your golf game. Once you start putting some of these suggestions to use, you’ll never have to pay full price to enjoy the game you can’t live without.
Category: Saving Money
