Protect your golf clubs with a wheeled, hard-side travel bag. RELATED LINKS Visit Fine Living City Guides Take the Travel IQ Upload Your Vacation Pics to Our Getaways Gallery

Planning a golf getaway? Maximize your time on the course by taking a few simple steps.

• Call on-staff golf pro in advance.
  The key to traveling comfortably is traveling light. You don't need to bring along every club you own. Instead, research your course ahead of time, and decide which clubs you can't live without.

• Rent top-of-the-line clubs.
  You can also try renting equipment. Renting gives you the opportunity to try out the latest models and technology. Many specialty golf rental companies will deliver the clubs to the airport of your choice.

• Reduce back strain with wheeled bag.
  When traveling by air, keep your clubs as protected as possible. Opt for a hard side travel bag, preferably with wheels. If you're shipping your clubs in advance, choose a company that specializes in shipping sports equipment.

• Use golf travel packaging company.
  For stress-free travel planning, let a golf packager do all the work. They can set up lodging, transportation and tee times, and leave you free to focus solely on your swing.