It is painfully obvious to me that whoever said anticipation is greater than realization never took a golf vacation.

Oh, picking an ultimate destination and plotting the trip itinerary are the fun parts. You're the envy of every member of the office bogey brigade, not to mention the neighbourhood, where they'll be spending the week worrying about crab-grass while you're frolicking on creeping bent.

But when it comes time to get packing, most folks approach the what-to-take-with decisions with the same enthusiasm they exhibit for a root canal.

Hey, getting everything ready doesn't have to be painful, all you need is a little organization and insight, not to mention fore-sight (golf pun intended).

Please be advised, though. There's one thing you'll surely want to have with you on the trip, but unfortunately won't know if you brought it until you get there: Your golf game.

Nobody said life had to be fair, bulky. Starting out, the prime consideration is the climate.

Choosing appropriate outerwear isn't exactly brain surgery, but unless you're pulling a big trailer, you'll have to make some wise clothing decisions.

Take one full golf outfit (shirt and slacks or skirt) for each day you plan to attack the links. It goes without saying that permanent press garments are a wise choice, unless you want to spend your vacation leaning over an ironing board.

If necessary, things like jockey shorts and socks can be washed by hand in your hotel room sink. Remember to pack a little detergent.

Take along an extra pair of golf shoes (with shoe trees) so you have a dry pair available in case you-know-what happens. Bring along some shoe polish; there's also a fantastic spray that'll keep them looking good, too.

No matter what the weatherman predicts, bring along a couple of golf sweaters, windbreaker and rain suit, if you own one; there's no sense in tempting fate. Toss in a cap and you're all set. If you forget them, all is not lost since most golf shops are well stocked with foul weather gear.

At most resorts, decent golf clothing is the uniform of the day in the restaurants, but is advised; when some high-line facilities say casual wear is acceptable, they might mean a sport coat and tie. Better check in advance.

You'll also want to toss a couple of pairs of shorts and a bathing suit into the suitcase, just in case the weather goes to the other extreme.

Don't forget the essential incidentals. Some resort condominiums come stocked with dishes, pots and pans, silverware and can openers. Others do not, and if you plan some in-room cooking, check ahead so you don't get caught short. If you have any special dietary requirements, before you leave home is a good time to remember them. And a small ice chest may also come in handy for trips between locations (unless you're flying).

And please consider personal items. Some hotels and resorts provide a host of sundry things like complimentary shampoo and conditioner, sewing kits, cologne, deodorant and bottle openers. Some don't. (Don't laugh unless you know how to open a pop bottle with a sand wedge.)

Then there are the very personal items. If you wear contact lenses, bring along an extra set plus all of your cleaning and disinfecting paraphernalia. It can be very uncomfortable walking around with what once was the fifth fairway stuck to your eyelids.

If you are taking prescription medication, bring it. A bottle of aspirin can come in handy for easing sore muscle pain, and if you plan on playing 36 holes each day for a week, bring along some of those wonderful cloth Band Aids. Nothing can spoil a long-awaited, paid-in-advance golf trip quicker than blisters and calluses on your fingers. And a bandage and insect spray are things that are better packed and not needed than needed and not packed.

Another important but often overlooked item is antacid tablets for the fire below deck. When trying new foods, you just never know how your body might react.

To enhance your enjoyment of the beauteous scenery, binoculars may come in handy. And after your big build-up, your co-workers and neighbours will want to see your vacation snapshots, so don't forget your camera. And a deck of cards takes up very little room.

A large envelope will hold your precious souvenir scorecards; take an extra blank card at each course to show off back home (unless you want everyone to see your scores, possibly a terrifying thought. Remember, this is supposed to be a nice, relaxing vacation).

If this is an auto trip, get the oil changed and tune up done before you leave. Check the wiper blades, spare tyre, and pack some tools. Make sure you have the proper maps, a small spiral notebook to mark mileages and expenses, regular sunglasses for normal day driving and extra dark ones for driving into a setting sun.

And remember, when you pack the suitcase, put anything that is of major importance in a place that is easily accessible. There is no sadder sight than vacationers on the shoulder of the road unpacking the whole car in a torrential downpour to get something needed.

That should just about do it. Oh, yeah. One more thing. Don't forget your golf clubs.