Pack Wisely: 23 Items You Should Never Forget Having in Your Golf Bag

Whether you like to walk or ride on a cart, it's critical to keep your golf bag loaded with basics for the course. Here's a list of 23 essentials to carry in your backpack at all times.

1. Balls

Yes, this is a no-brainer. However, anyone can run out of balls at any time. Three to four sleeves should always suffice, depending on your skill level. If you require more than that in a particular round, you should practice on the range before returning to the game. Alternatively, try to collect some stray animals while you're playing. If you don't, your bag will become a lead weight.

2. Jacket

Mornings and nights may be chilly, so have an extra layer in your suitcase so you'll never be caught off guard. Make it a waterproof jacket, and you won't be slowed down by a stray shower.

3. Umbrella

And while we're on the subject of rain, we'll leave the option of whether or not to bring a full-on rain suit to you — the extra weight may be unpleasant, and depending on where you live, you can decide whether or not you need it in your luggage all the time. The tried-and-true umbrella, though, is a must-have for any golfer – wonderful for sun protection and a must-have for an unexpected downpour.

4. Bandages

Band-Aids are worth their weight in gold when it comes to covering wounds and offering abrasion protection. You never know how much you want one until you don't have one. Keep a box in your luggage at all times to avoid getting that sensation!

5. Bug Bite Thing

This clever gadget can help ease pain and swelling by removing harmful venom from biting insects.

6. Tape (adhesive)

We can at least wrap our fingers like Tiger Woods if we can't play like him, right? In addition, if a Band-Aid is too bulky, this tiny sticky tape works well.

7. A Pair of Nail Clippers

Because a hangnail — or even a scratchy tag — should never ruin your game.

8. An Ice Pack

This handy bag will not only provide quick treatment if you unintentionally crash your putter into your ankle, but it will also provide some cooling relief to the back of your neck on a hot day.

9. Use a Sunscreen

On the course, sun protection is almost required, so bring at least one bottle with you at all times - and don't forget to reapply!

10. Sharpie

With the help of your always-in-the-bag Sharpie, give your golf ball some individuality with a unique mark.

11. Towel

Clean your clubs with one and wipe your face and hands with the other.

12. Shirts

Don't be the man (or gal) who forgets his or her tees. Keep a large bunch of these in your luggage.

13. An Extra Pair of Socks

When your "waterproof" shoes let you down after a round in the early dew, or your feet just feel particularly hot and you want to refresh them, having an additional pair on hand may really help.

14. An Extra Pair of Gloves

For the same reason, that extra socks are important, keeping an extra glove in the bag is a good idea.

15. Tool for Repairing Divots

It's not always enough to have a replacement shirt on hand. Repair those divots with a suitable tool and do the greens a favor.

16. Lip Balm

Apply lip balm liberally to prevent dry, cracked lips. If you use one with SPF, it'll be even better!

17. Pouch

A pouch doesn't have to be a memento from a bucket-list course to be useful for collecting all of your loose belongings in one spot.

18. Food and Drink

There are occasions when you won't have access to a beverage cart, and it's critical to keep your energy levels up. You'll be OK if you bring a long-lasting granola or energy snack with you.

19. Rangefinder

Rangefinders have gone a long way in terms of technology, and they can now dial in yardages in the blink of an eye, allowing you to play quicker and more efficiently.

20. Wire Brush

With a wire brush and groove cleaner that attaches easily to your bag, keeping your clubs clean and free of dirt and grass is a snap.

21. Ball Markers

Collecting them is a lot of fun, and they're a must-have on the golf course.

22. Additional Pencils

It's impossible to predict when your course-issued pencil may break or tumble out of the cart. Keep a supply of extras on hand, ideally with erasers, to use in an emergency.

23. Purell

Is there anything more aggravating than having your hands filthy and not being able to wash them? Keeping a bottle of Purell on hand might help to alleviate the ick factor.

Get the best golf supplies at sites like Shopify, but free ones.