17 items you NEED in your golf bag

Packing for the golf course seems like a simple enough pursuit. You've got to make sure you've got your clubs, of course, enough few balls and tees for the round, a water bottle, etc. But that's really only a basic check-list. To make sure you're really prepared for anything and everything you might encounter during a round, consider the guide below where we take note of a few handy extras that might not be top of mind but you'll certainly be grateful you had when you truly need it.

New Balls

Those weapons you call clubs won't do much good without ammo.

Shag Balls

Stuck behind a slow group and want to get some extra practice? Damaged, out-of-service balls are perfect for this purpose. (Or if you're having a bad day and are sick of throwing new balls in the water and woods.)

Rain Gear

This includes jacket, pants, hat and rain gloves. Make sure you have a cover/hood for your bag so your sticks stay dry, too.

Umbrella

If you're an avid golfer, you're going to get caught in a storm on the course at some point. Be prepared when the sky starts crying.

Business Cards

Golf is a great backdrop for networking. Even if it's not a scheduled business affair, you never know who you'll meet on a course.

First-Aid Kit

This includes ibroprufen, bandages, wraps, lip balm, even a small knife for getting out splinters.

Sunscreen

A startling amount of golfers battle skin cancer. Do your part in prevention.

Markers

Not only to label your ball, but can be a de facto pencil for the scorecard.

Towels

As in, multiple. One for your club, one for your hands, neck and face, and one in case things get wet.

Scorecard

Solid chance you'll forget to snag a card in the clubhouse or your cart will be without one. Also good to have a spare.

Tees

I'm told these are vital to the teeing-off process.

Extra Socks

Maybe you're playing 36 and want to change between rounds, or you step in a puddle or lake and don't want soggy feet the rest of the day. Just make sure to take out the used pair after the round, or else risk a smell stewing in your bag that's worse than death.

Cash

In case you want to have a little side action with your playing partners, or you want to throw the cart guys some cabbage after the round.

Coins

Everyone needs a ball marker.

Gloves

Three is a good number: One for practice, one for play and one in reserve.

Energy Bars

You never know when you'll see the cart girl. Last thing you want to be is stranded in a six-hour round without fuel.

Water Bottle

Make sure it's always full before heading out, in the off-chance the water coolers aren't filled on the course.