A guys’ golf trip is all about camaraderie, competition, and relaxation. But nothing ruins the fun faster than worrying about money. Whether it’s splitting accommodation costs, covering green fees, or handling meals and drinks, figuring out a fair way to divide expenses can save everyone from awkward conversations or unexpected financial surprises.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best strategies for splitting costs fairly on a guys’ golf trip, so your crew can focus on hitting birdies instead of bickering over bills.
1. Use a Cost-Splitting App
Gone are the days of scribbling expenses on a napkin or trying to remember who owes what. Cost-splitting apps like Splitwise, Venmo, and Tab make it easy to track shared expenses and automatically calculate how much each person owes.
Why Use an App?
- Keeps a clear record of who paid for what
- Prevents constant cash exchanges
- Automates calculations, avoiding disputes
- Allows group members to settle up instantly
For example, if one person covers the Airbnb cost and another pays for a big dinner, an app will balance it out so everyone pays their fair share in the end.
Pro Tip: Before the trip, decide which app to use so everyone is on the same page. If some prefer cash, designate a “banker” to handle reimbursements.
2. Decide the Best Splitting Method
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to dividing expenses. The right method depends on how your group plans to spend money.
Even Split (Simplest Option)
If everyone is participating in the same activities—staying in the same rental, playing the same number of rounds, and dining together—an even split is the easiest option.
Example:
- Lodging: $1,500 / 4 guys = $375 each
- Tee times: $400 / 4 guys = $100 each
- Rental car & gas: $200 / 4 guys = $50 each
Usage-Based Split
If some guys are golfing more than others or upgrading their experience (like booking a private caddie), splitting only the shared expenses makes sense.
Example:
- Accommodations & rental car: Split evenly
- Green fees: Only pay for what you play
- Food & drinks: Group meals split, personal orders paid individually
Percentage Split (For Different Budgets)
If your group includes guys with different financial situations, discuss a split based on percentage contributions.
Example:
- Two guys with bigger budgets cover 60% of accommodations, while the others cover 40%.
- One guy books a luxury villa, while the others stay in standard rooms.
No matter which method you choose, discuss it before the trip to avoid misunderstandings.
3. Group Expenses vs. Personal Expenses
To keep things fair, categorize expenses into two groups:
Group Costs (Split Evenly)
- Accommodations – Hotel or vacation rental if shared
- Green Fees – If everyone plays the same rounds
- Rental Car & Gas – If all use it
- Group Meals & Drinks – Shared BBQs, beer runs, and large group dinners
Personal Costs (Pay Individually)
- Golf Club Rentals or Caddies – If not everyone needs one
- Extra Rounds of Golf – If some play more
- Personal Shopping or Excursions – Souvenirs, spa treatments, or side trips
- Room Upgrades – If one guy wants the suite, let him pay the difference
A simple rule: If it benefits the whole group, split it. If it’s personal, pay your own way.
4. Assign a Trip Treasurer
Having one person (the "Trip Treasurer") cover large expenses and manage reimbursements can make the process smoother.
What Does the Trip Treasurer Do?
- Books the accommodations
- Covers green fees if needed
- Pays for rental cars
- Keeps track of shared expenses and logs them into an app
At the end of the trip, the treasurer uses an app to divide costs and ensure everyone pays their share. This eliminates the hassle of multiple payments throughout the trip.
Pro Tip: Rotate this responsibility on future trips so no one always fronts the money.
5. Buy Shared Items in Bulk
Instead of everyone buying their own snacks, drinks, and supplies, make a group grocery run and split the total.
Items Worth Buying in Bulk:
- Steaks, burgers, and BBQ supplies
- Beer, whiskey, and mixers
- Bottled water and sports drinks
- Snacks for the course
This keeps costs down and ensures everyone has what they need without constantly running to the store.
Pro Tip: One person can pay for the groceries, and the total can be divided using a cost-splitting app.
6. Keep Track & Settle Up at the End
The last thing you want is to leave the trip with unpaid debts or lingering disputes. Before heading home, settle up all expenses so everyone leaves on good terms.
How to Settle Up Smoothly:
- Use the app to see final balances
- If needed, transfer money via Venmo, Zelle, or PayPal
- Confirm that all expenses are covered before departing
By keeping everything transparent, you avoid any confusion or hard feelings after the trip.
A guys' golf trip should be about relaxing, playing great golf, and making unforgettable memories—not stressing over money. By using an app, deciding on a fair cost-sharing method, and keeping expenses transparent, you can focus on enjoying the trip rather than managing finances.
Want to book your next golf getaway? Check out our guide on Where to Play Golf for top destinations. Also, read our post on Golf Cart Etiquette to ensure your crew respects the course while riding in style. By planning ahead and following these cost-splitting strategies, you’ll set your group up for a smooth, stress-free, and financially fair golf trip. Now, go book that tee time and hit the fairways!