Before considering what the contents of our golf bag should include, it is actually worth noting that there is a wide choice of golf bags themselves available. To a large degree your golf bag preference is dependent on your budget as well as what you want from your golf bag. Some golf bags are considered to be fashion accessories, some are identified only for their practical uses and some are a mixture of both of these attributes.
As has been asked on many occasions in so many different situations - does size matter? Many golfers consider this to be an important factor. So, fortunately there are large bags, larger bags and bags so big that they'd keep everything I would need for a long weekend holiday in one of the side pockets! What do people often say - everything but the kitchen sink, I think it is. Perhaps you are just commencing playing golf as a pastime. If that is the case then choosing a worthy golf bag is one of many significant issues you need to be aware of. Choosing the right golf bag, as well as having to contend with all the other golf matters you will need to learn, can be quite intimidating for the newbie golfer. Don't worry though, you can find many great tips and information at Golf Beginners Guide.
Anyway, back to your golf bag. Regardless of any fashion considerations for the time being, generally speaking you will need a bag that will be sufficiently large enough to hold your clubs, extra balls, your glove, tees, car keys, extra pencils, ball markers, a ball retriever,
sun tan lotion, a windbreaker and an umbrella.
Also consider that it may be a good idea to carry a packet of tissues or two, some sticking plasters, and if you are playing courses in a country where insects, such as mosquitos, are a concern, some bug repellant may also be a good idea. Warm climate or not I would most definitely include a bottle of water (or another preferred drink - no, not alcohol!!)
A small packet of baby wipes will come in very handy as well. In your bag they get warmed by the heat, so when you get sweaty or a sand trap covered you with sand, a nice warm wipe can be very invigorating. To combat the heat, one golfer I know used to carry one of those small, battery operated fans. Quite a good idea as it happens but remember, they can be fairly noisy and distracting so do not use it when your partner is about to take a shot. The fan is not a bad idea but not an essential for the golfing beginner.
A golfing friend of mine also happens to be allergic to bees, hornets and wasps, so Epipen is a vital addition to his bag. He is also hypoglycemic so he carries Lifesavers, which have to be replaced several times throughout the year because they tend to melt.
One item that does not necessarily need to be in your golf bag is your mobile phone. Nevertheless, if you believe that it is necessary for you to have it while playing, then at least show some consideration for your golfing colleagues and have the ringer on silent. If it so happens that you have to use it, then consider your fellow golfers who may be preparing to take a swing or an important put. Show consideration to your fellow golfers!!
If you were to include these items in your golf bag then you should be covered for most eventualities, like a minor crisis (such as a blister or small cut), or even a relatively major nuisance like a downpour of rain. If your organisation and preparation is well taken care of, the game of golf becomes so much more enjoyable.
You may think of other things that are essential to you (for example you may suffer from hay fever and as a result your medication is vital) so take note of the above items as a guideline. Don't go too mad as you still have to carry the bag around. You will not want to tire yourself out by carrying your bag round if it is too heavy. Whatever you choose to keep in your bag always look after the items as well as you would look after your other golf equipment.