Start Local: Building Momentum for Your Club's Travel Program
Launching a club-hosted travel program doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, one of the best ways to get things rolling is to just keep it simple. Start local! An overnight trip to a nearby destination is often the perfect way to introduce your members to the fun and camaraderie of traveling together.
Although we focus on overseas destinations at H&B, I’ve worked with many PGA Professionals who took this approach, and let me tell you—it works! A short, easy trip gives your members a taste of what’s possible, builds excitement, and sets the stage for bigger adventures down the road.
Why Start Local?
- Ease of Planning: A nearby destination means fewer logistics, less time away from the club, and most likely a shorter booking window. It’s a great way to learn the ropes of traveling with your members without diving into a full-scale trip.
- Walk Before You Run: Local trips provide a relaxed introduction to club travel. They give your members a chance to enjoy traveling together without the extra cost and time commitment of a bigger trip. Translation: You'll have an easier time recruiting your members!
- Builds Excitement for More: Once your members see how much fun a trip can be, they’ll be asking, “Where to next?” before you even get back home.
The Expedition led by Ryan Kartchner, PGA at Carnoustie Golf Links.
Ideas for Local Trips
- A Little Golf, A Little Good Life: Plan an overnight trip to a nearby club and pair it with something extra, like a baseball game or a group dinner. It’s a fun, low-pressure way to introduce everyone to the travel program.
- Home and Home Matches: Team up with another club in your region and plan a pair of matches—one at their course and one at yours. Make sure it's far enough away to require an overnight. Not only will this foster camaraderie among your members, but it’ll also strengthen your connection with another PGA Professional.
- Resort Hotspots: Choose a golf resort within driving distance and plan a two-night trip. This option is relatively easy on the logistics and provides an elevated experience over a basic overnight.
From Local to Legendary
Once you’ve got a local trip under your belt, you’ve opened the door to bigger opportunities. Members who experience the fun and camaraderie of traveling together are far more likely to jump on board for the next trip.
Maybe your next step is a marquee domestic spot like Bandon Dunes or Pebble Beach. Or maybe it’s time to start dreaming about overseas travel to Scotland, Ireland, or England! The same principles apply: keep the group small, focus on enthusiastic and engaged participants, and make sure the experience is top-notch.
In closing, starting local isn’t just a stepping stone—it’s a proven strategy for building a successful travel program. A simple, nearby trip can create momentum, build trust, and give your members a taste of the unforgettable experiences that lie ahead.
More Pro Tips
Begin Your Journey Here
To learn more about the PGA Professionals Travel Program from Haversham & Baker, simply complete the form below or ask one of your colleagues on this list.