A Guide to Bargain Golfing - Part II

Click here for Part I of this post.

The fact is, golf can be a pretty pricey game. From equipment, to greens fees, to gadgets and more, golf can often seem like it isn't too friendly toward the pockets of the average Joe. But for the savvy fairway dweller, golf is a game that can be enjoyed without breaking the bank. Take a look at these tips, and you're sure to save a buck or two next time you hit the links.

Golf Clubs at a Discount

Without a doubt, the most costly one-time golf-related expense is the clubs. And while it's not necessary to break the bank, your clubs are an investment, especially if you are planning on using them often. So just like you would with a company's stock or a piece of jewelry, do plenty of research to find the clubs that will be the best and wisest investment for you.

When you do find the right clubs, there are a few things you can do to lessen the impact on your wallet.

Most companies introduce a new model of their clubs each year. And in general, those clubs don't change much from year to year. But as soon as that new model hits the shelves, the previous year's model usually takes a dip in price. So keep an eye out for quality clubs that haven't just been released.

Also, many companies (Nike being one), will offer a buyback program that customers can use to put toward the purchase of a new set. This affords you two opportunities. One, you can get a good chunk of money for your older set. But more than that, the companies will often refurbish and resell those clubs at a bargain price.

The deal with refurbished clubs is that the companies are only going to sell the clubs that are still in great shape. Most go through a rigorous process that includes weighing the club, sanding the head, and refinishing it to bring it as close as possible to its original condition. In most cases, these clubs really are as good as new. If you're thinking of buying a used set on eBay or Craigslist, or even from your neighbor, you might consider this as a better alternative.

And lastly, don't be ashamed to use a coupon! Check through your Sunday paper, and you'll find that local sporting goods stores will offer 20% off purchases over $250, or $25 off any purchase over $100. These deals will allow you to get the clubs you want and keep enough money in your pocket to cover your next trip to the course.

Don't Overdo It at the Range

How many times have you stood at the popcorn counter at the movies and said to yourself "I could get the medium popcorn for $5.50, but for just $1.50 more, I can get the large." You know you're not going to eat all that popcorn, but sometimes the deal just seems irresistible, right? And yet, how many times have you gone against your better judgment and gotten the largo, only to leave half of the bag uneaten?

Don't fall for that at the driving range. Most places offer three sizes: small (between 50 and 70 balls), medium (between 70 and 90 balls), and large (between 80 and 125 balls). The prices range from $4-7, $7-10, and $10-15, respectively.

If you're at the range because you are warming up before you play a round, go with the small bucket. NEVER go with anything larger than a medium. You shouldn't need more than 50 swings to get in the groove of things. When you start hitting close to 75 balls, you're going to tire out, and now your trip to the range has done you more harm than good.

If you're just happening by the range on the way home from work, consider opting for the small or medium. Golfers should never swing a club unless they are going to swing it right. When you get up over 90 swings, chances are that your mechanics have gone out the window, and you're just swinging that stick to finish up those last balls in your tray. But in the process, you're building bad habits...and wasting money with every ball you send flailing out to nowhere in particular.

Avoid Other Golf Money Pitfalls

Golf Gadgets: When it comes to devices that claim to improve the way you play, there is no sport in which strange contraptions and shoddy gadgets abound like golf. Most of these flat out don't work, and many of the "swing improvement" tools will actually hurt your swing more than it will help. Plus, the likelihood that you will actually get these tools out and bring them with you next time you head to the course is minimal. Don't get conned into buying too many of these

The Snack Cart- As if you haven't shelled out enough money, there is that little oasis waiting to charge you $5 for a 2 oz. Bag of chips. The fact is, you've been spent nine holes golfing and lugging a bag around, you might feel inclined to grab some munchies. But next time, before you leave for the course, bring two things: a bottle of water and an energy bar. If you see the snack cart and think you are hungry, you're actually probably just thirsty. Hydrate yourself, and you'll feel much better. And if you still need something to munch on, grab that energy bar. You may end up grabbing lunch afterward anyway, but at least you'll probably enjoy sitting and ordering the food you want, unlike the snack cart, where you get dinged for $10 worth of whatever junk food they have available.