I should know how this works by now.

I’m packing today for my fourth golf trip to Ireland. Simple, yes?

Packing for a golf trip is never so. Anyone who plays the game knows the challenges between packing too much and too little. A couple of bad-weather days on the course can ruin you for the entire trip.

Going overseas to a place as wild as Ireland makes it even tougher. Here’s my strategies I’ve learned over the years:

1, Check your clubs, carry your clothes: Most airlines now charge extra for your checked luggage, but even before these dastardly rules went into effect, it’s always made more sense to pack your clothes into a carry on. That’s instant security from worrying about lost luggage, although I’d argue I’d rather lose my clothes than my clubs any day of the week.

2, Use that travel golf bag: With little room in the carry on, I’ve realized how valuable those oversized golf bags really are. I can put an extra set of shoes in them. I also stuff a jacket or sweatshirt around the clubs for extra cushion. The rain gear goes into the golf bag for two reasons: For more room in the carry on and to be ready at a moment’s notice on the course.

3, Bring the umbrella: I’ve read travel guides that say to leave your umbrella at home. Poppy cock! Yes, the wind and rain can come sideways, but it’s better to have one than not.

4, Extra gear?: Here’s where decisions get tricky. I’m actually thinking about bringing an extra set of golf shoes and an extra rain suit. I’m headed to the southwest of Ireland, which is known as the wettest spot on the Emerald Isle. Still haven’t decided yet what to do.

5, No shorts, no problem: This time of year, there’s no need to bring shorts to Ireland. I’ll bring some cold-weather gear - winter golf gloves, an under armour shirt and a ski band to cover my ears and a thick sweater or two. For the most part, though, temps will be very comfortable for walking golf courses … high 50s to mid 60s.

6, Clothes to bring: For my trip of 8 days, 7 rounds of golf, I’m bringing 4 pair of golf pants and at least 6 golf shirts, most of them long sleeves. Maybe a fancy shirt or two since I’m staying at 5-star accommodations at Doonbeg and Dromoland Castle. The Irish are generally casual, bar-friend folks who will accept you no matter what you’re wearing. The stuffy clubs are in England and Wales. That said, though, go ahead and leave your tennis shoes at home. Those Nikes and adidas just scream “American!” Wear the loafers when you’re not on the golf course.

The best part about packing? The anticipation about the trip. Bring it on!

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