Travelling to Portugal: Should You Bring Your Golf Clubs or Rent Locally?

Portugal is actually the World’s Best Golf Destination—for good reason. From the sun-drenched Algarve to the coastal gems near Lisbon and the Douro Valley’s hidden fairways, the country offers world-class courses, warm hospitality, and incredible value. However, one question keeps popping up among visiting golfers: Should you travel with your own golf clubs or rent them upon arrival?

Let’s break it down.

PLAYING WITH YOUR OWN GOLF CLUBS

Pros:

Familiarity: You know your clubs inside out—your distances, your grip, the feel of each swing. There’s comfort (and often better performance) in using what you know.

Confidence Boost: Playing with your set can mentally prepare you for a strong game, especially on challenging championship courses like Monte Rei or Oitavos Dunes.

Cons:

Baggage Fees: Airlines charge hefty fees for sporting equipment. Depending on your route, it may add a significant cost to your trip.

Logistics: Hauling a golf bag through airports, taxis, and hotels can be tiring—especially if you’re also travelling with family or visiting multiple cities.

Risk of Damage or Loss: Even with the best travel bags, damage can occur. And unfortunately, lost luggage isn’t unheard of.

RENTING CLUBS IN PORTUGAL

Pros:

Convenience: No need to carry bulky gear. Just land, grab your rental set, and head to the course.

Quality Equipment: Through Tee Times Golf Holidays providers, golfers can rent premium clubs from top brands—suited to your playing level and handedness.

Ideal for Short Trips or Mixed-Activity Vacations: If golf is just part of your trip, rentals save space and stress.

Cons:

Adjustment Period: Even top-tier rental sets take a few holes to get used to—grips, shaft flex, and club lengths may differ from yours.

Availability: During peak seasons, it’s best to reserve in advance to ensure you get a set that suits you.

THE BOTTOM LINE

If you’re planning a golf-focused vacation with multiple rounds at elite courses, bringing your own clubs might be worth the effort. But if convenience and travel lightness are priorities, renting can make your Portugal golf holiday seamless.

At Tee Times, we make either option easy. Whether you’re shipping in your beloved irons or selecting a premium rental, our team ensures your experience is smooth from tee-off to final putt. With over 30 years of expertise and partnerships with Portugal’s best resorts, we tailor every trip to your needs—clubs included with the best providers.

Ready to plan your perfect golf break with us? Let us help you swing into Portugal in style.

How to Plan the Perfect Golf Trip to the Algarve

Thinking of playing golf in the Algarve? Tee Times Golf Holidays has been helping golfers plan seamless Algarve getaways for over 30 years. Thinking of playing golf in the Algarve? Great choice. With over 300 days of sunshine, dramatic coastline views, and some of Europe’s top-ranked courses, the Algarve is a dream destination for golfers of all levels. Whether you’re looking for a competitive challenge or just a scenic round followed by a long lunch, this southern slice of Portugal has something for everyone.

So, where should you start?

First, book smart. Tee Times Golf Holidays has been helping golfers plan seamless Algarve getaways for over 30 years. With direct access to premium tee times, exclusive packages, and trusted relationships with the region’s best resorts, we will tailor your trip around how you like to play.

If you’re after iconic fairways, don’t miss Monte Rei (Jack Nicklaus Signature), Quinta do Lago South, or Vilamoura Old Course—some of the best in Portugal. And the best time to visit? Spring and fall offer ideal conditions without the summer heat, but even in winter, you’ll find warm days, great value, and fewer crowds.

Need clubs? No problem—high-quality rentals are available. Prefer private transfers or drive yourself? Tee Times has you covered. And when you’re off the course, unwind with fresh seafood, explore coastal villages, or go wine-tasting inland. The Algarve is as much about lifestyle as it is about golf.

A few tips before you go: check if the course you’re eyeing requires a handicap certificate (some top-tier ones do), and pack proper golf attire—yes, even on holiday, there’s a dress code.

Bottom line? Whether you’re chasing birdies or just the sunshine, a golf holiday in the Algarve is always a win. And with Tee Times handling the details, all you have to do is show up and swing.

Ready to plan your Portugal golf holidays in the Algarve? Let us make it happen.

Tee Times Present at IAGTO European Convention: Connecting, Growing, Evolving

The IAGTO European Convention (IEC) is back. From May 19 to 21, the spotlight will shine on Gran Canaria, and the golf travel community will come together again. With more than 30 years delivering top-tier golf experiences in Portugal, Spain, and other destinations, Tee Times Golf Holidays is proud to be part of this essential industry event as an IAGTO member.

This year’s IEC will be held at ExpoMeloneras — a world-class venue in the heart of Gran Canaria’s hospitality district.

For us, the IEC is much more than just a business convention. It’s a place to reconnect with long-time friends, strengthen trusted partnerships, and explore fresh opportunities. Carlos Ferreira, Founder & CEO, said: “IEC isn’t just a schedule full of meetings — it’s a chance to reconnect with partners who’ve been part of our journey for years. In this industry, relationships matter, and meeting face-to-face helps keep that trust strong.”

From Algarve to the World

Over three decades, Tee Times has grown from a local expert in the Algarve into a leading DMC serving golfers across Europe and other destinations. Our secret? A deep love for the game, personalised attention, and a constant drive to innovate, offering the best golf package for unforgettable golf holidays.

“Being at IEC is essential for us,” Ferreira adds. “It’s about reinforcing what we’ve built and staying open to new opportunities as a DMC — finding fresh connections with suppliers and buyers who share our passion for golf and quality service.”

Jorge Diogo, our Director of Sales & Marketing, agrees: “There’s nothing quite like a real conversation. Events like this let you connect with long-time partners and discover new opportunities.” And he continues: “We’re excited to be part of the IAGTO European Convention because it’s the perfect stage to show what we do at Tee Times. Meeting new buyers and suppliers helps us stay ahead and improve the experience we offer golf travellers.”

We look forward to another memorable edition of the IAGTO European Convention and continuing our mission of bringing golfers closer to the best courses, cultures, and connections across Portugal, Spain and some of the best world golf destinations.