Golf Cart vs. Walking the Golf Course in Thailand: What to Choose and Why

4 September 2025

When planning your golf holiday in Thailand, one of the questions that often comes up is whether you should ride in a golf cart or walk the course. While the answer can vary based on the course, the climate, and your personal style of play, Thailand offers both options with a few important nuances to know before you decide. Whether you’re chasing birdies on the coast or playing a mountain course up north, understanding how golf carts and walking options work in Thailand will help you prepare better and enjoy your round even more. Read everything about Golf Cart vs Walking in Thailand.

Carts in Thailand: Not Always Optional

Unlike many countries where carts are a convenience, in Thailand they can sometimes be a requirement. Some golf courses make carts mandatory for every player, particularly for safety reasons or due to long distances between holes. In these cases, just like caddies (which are mandatory at all Thai courses) a cart becomes part of the standard golf experience.

Cart fees in Thailand are quite reasonable compared to international standards. You can expect to pay around 600 to 900 THB per cart, and in most cases, the cart is shared between one golfer and their caddie. That’s right, in Thailand, it’s common for the caddie to drive the cart while you enjoy the ride and focus on your game.

Mandatory cart courses are often larger layouts or more premium destinations. These courses might span hilly terrain or have considerable distance between tee boxes, making walking impractical or even unsafe. In such cases, the convenience of a cart not only keeps your energy up but also ensures you stay on pace with your group.

Courses Where You Can Choose

Many courses in Thailand still allow you to choose whether to walk or use a cart. This is particularly common at flatter courses or local favorites where walking is safe and the layout is compact. For some golfers, walking is part of the joy of the game. It helps them stay loose, feel the course more intimately, and burn a few extra calories along the way.

Walking the course in Thailand is possible, but it’s important to factor in the climate. The tropical heat and high humidity can make walking more taxing than expected, especially during midday hours. Morning and late afternoon tee times are generally more pleasant if you plan to walk. Caddies are always part of the experience, so even if you choose to walk, you’ll have someone carrying your bag, providing guidance, and helping you throughout the round. It’s a unique benefit of golfing in Thailand. You get the physical benefits of walking without the strain of hauling your own clubs.

Pros of Using a Golf Cart in Thailand

🛺 Comfort in the heat – Avoid fatigue and dehydration, especially in hot or rainy weather
🛺 Faster pace of play – Carts can help maintain rhythm and finish your round in good time
🛺 Focus on your swing – With your caddie managing the cart and gear, you can stay mentally relaxed
🛺 Ideal for groups – Perfect for buddy trips where everyone rides and chats between shots

Using a cart is also helpful for golfers with mobility issues or those recovering from injury. It allows you to play top courses you might otherwise skip due to physical limitations.

Benefits of Walking the Course

🚶 Better course immersion – Walking helps you feel more connected to the layout, slopes, and strategy
🚶 Steady rhythm – Many golfers find a better flow and tempo when walking between shots
🚶 Health and fitness – Burn extra calories while enjoying scenic tropical landscapes
🚶 Quieter experience – Walking creates a peaceful, focused round without engine sounds

For solo players or those seeking a more meditative game, walking can provide a completely different energy—one that’s more personal and reflective.

Things to Consider When Choosing

The biggest factor in your decision may be the weather. Thailand’s temperatures can soar above 30°C, with high humidity making it feel even hotter. If you’re unused to tropical conditions, a cart can save you from exhaustion and keep your game sharp. That said, many seasoned travelers plan early morning tee times, allowing them to walk comfortably before the heat peaks.

Some golf courses in Thailand may also limit walking during certain months or specific hours due to maintenance or pace-of-play policies. Always check with the course when booking. Additionally, not all cart paths allow carts to go directly onto the fairway. Depending on the course and conditions, you might be required to stick to the path and walk to your ball, so it’s good to ask about cart access if you’re trying to avoid extra walking.

Combining Both: Walk Some, Ride Some

One of the advantages of golf in Thailand is its flexibility. On many courses, if you’re playing 18 holes, you can choose to ride the first nine and walk the back nine—or vice versa. Some golfers even prefer walking the front and then grabbing a cart after a break to cool off for the final stretch.

Caddies are incredibly accommodating and used to helping players adapt. Whether you’re changing your mind mid-round or need a quick break from walking, you’ll rarely encounter resistance. That’s part of the Thai golf culture. Relaxed, friendly, and tailored to you.

Choose What Suits Your Style

Golf Cart vs Walking in Thailand? Both riding and walking have their merits, and the good news is you’ll rarely go wrong with either choice in Thailand. If you love comfort, conversation, and a breezy round, hop in a cart with your caddie and enjoy the ride. If you prefer solitude, physical movement, and deeper engagement with the game, walking could be your perfect pace.

Thailand’s unique blend of hospitality, scenic beauty, and golf culture means your round will be memorable either way. Just make sure to plan according to the climate, the course rules, and your own comfort zone.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Golf Cart or Walking in Thailand

Is it better to walk or use a golf cart for my round of golf?

Both options have pros and cons. Walking a golf course gives you more exercise, helps you stay loose between shots, and allows you to enjoy the scenery at a slower pace. Using a golf cart saves energy, especially on hot days or hilly layouts, and often speeds up pace of play. Many golfers choose carts when playing multiple rounds in a day, while walking is preferred by those focusing on fitness and rhythm. The “best” option depends on your health, stamina, and time. If you want more exercise and connection to the course, walk. If you want comfort and efficiency, a golf cart may be the smarter choice.

What are the health benefits of walking during a golf round?

Walking 18 holes can cover 6–8 kilometers (4–5 miles) depending on the course design. This low-impact exercise burns around 1,000–1,500 calories per round, improving cardiovascular health, endurance, and overall fitness. Carrying or pushing a golf bag increases calorie burn further but can add strain to the back and shoulders. Many players notice they feel more focused and relaxed when walking, as it provides steady movement between shots. Walking golf also helps strengthen leg muscles and balance, which are vital for a consistent swing. For golfers who see golf as both recreation and a workout, walking is the best way to combine sport and exercise in one activity.

Does using a golf cart affect my performance or swing?

Yes, golf carts can indirectly impact performance. Riding means less physical exertion, which helps conserve energy for the final holes, especially in hot or humid climates. However, some golfers find they stiffen up between shots when riding instead of walking, as the body cools quickly. Walking promotes a natural rhythm, keeping muscles warm and engaged, which may improve consistency and feel. Using a cart can also change mental pace: players may rush shots because of faster travel or social distractions. Performance depends on your physical condition and playing style—if you prefer conserving stamina for powerful swings, a cart helps. If you play better with steady movement and rhythm, walking often delivers better results.

Are golf carts more efficient for pace of play?

Generally, yes. Golf carts can speed up play, especially on long or hilly courses where walking between greens and tees takes time. They are also useful in tournament formats or when daylight is limited, allowing players to complete 18 holes faster. However, pace of play can still slow down if golfers don’t drive carts efficiently—such as both players going to each ball separately instead of together. Walking doesn’t always mean slower rounds, particularly on shorter layouts or for fit players who move briskly. For public or resort courses, carts are often encouraged to maintain schedule flow. Still, etiquette and group coordination matter more than transport choice for true time savings.

How much does it cost to rent a golf cart compared to walking?

Golf cart rental prices vary by course and country. In the U.S., cart fees typically range from $15–$30 per person, while premium or resort courses may charge more. In Thailand or Southeast Asia, many packages already include a cart and caddie, making it part of the experience. Walking is usually cheaper since you only pay for the green fee, although some clubs charge a small fee for trolley or pushcart rentals. Over multiple rounds, renting a golf cart can add up, especially for budget-conscious golfers. Those aiming to save money while improving fitness often prefer walking, while players prioritizing comfort or group convenience find cart rental worth the investment.

Is walking the golf course always allowed, or are carts mandatory?

Policies differ worldwide. Many traditional courses in Scotland, Ireland, and Japan encourage walking, and carts may not even be available. In contrast, U.S. resort courses or tropical destinations like Thailand often require carts to speed up play and protect turf. Some clubs enforce cart-only policies on hilly terrain, long distances between holes, or during peak hours. Golfers should always check in advance if walking is permitted, as it affects planning, cost, and gear. Even on cart-mandatory courses, walking short stretches between shots can add light exercise. If fitness is a major priority, seek out “walkable courses” when booking your next golf holiday or weekend round.

Want help choosing courses where walking or riding suits your style?
Fairways of Eden makes it easy to book a custom golf trip that matches how you like to play. Explore flexible packages with caddies, carts, and everything taken care of at Fairways of Eden.

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