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Attending a PGA Tournament is an exciting opportunity to see the world’s best golfers up close and personal. But if you have a baby and are considering going to a PGA event, you may be wondering what the policies are surrounding the issue. Can you bring a baby to a PGA golf tournament?
Yes, you can bring a baby of any age to a PGA event. There is no policy restricting a baby from being on the grounds at a PGA tournament. But there will be issues at security IF you try to gain entry with a bag that is not in compliance with their security standards. Here is a security-compliant bag that you can view at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).
In the article below we detail exactly what types of bags are allowed so that you will not have any issues at the gate. There are also other things you must consider before you decide on bringing your toddler. You will need to consider things like:
- Security Policies
- Spectator Etiquette
- Crowds
- Toddler Protection
- Enjoyment
In this article we will discuss the issues highlighted above to help you decide whether or not bringing your baby to the course is right for you. We will also discuss whether or not you can bring your baby to other types of golf tournaments such as college golf, high school golf, or weekend amateur tournaments.
PGA policy can be unique in comparison to other sports. Here are some of our other articles you may want to read before you attend a PGA event:
Security Policies
If you want to do a super deep dive into what is allowed at a PGA tournament, you can go to their official guidelines by clicking this link. But here is what you need to know regarding your baby:
- Strollers, small diaper bags, plastic baby bottles, and other essential baby supplies (including medical) are permitted. These items ARE subject to being searched at the gate by security personnel if they deem it necessary. So don’t be surprised if someone inspects the diaper bag.
- Besides diaper bags, only specific other types of bags are allowed. Purses or small handbags 6″ x 6″ in size are permitted. Anything larger than that needs to be a clear plastic or clear vinyl bag not exceeding 12″ x 6″ x 12″ in total size. Regular bags larger that 6″ x 6″ are not permitted (must be clear to be larger than 6″ x 6″) and clear bags larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″ are not permitted.
- No backpacks of any kind are permitted on the grounds at a PGA tournament. No coolers of any kind are allowed at PGA events.
The PGA is very strict on the type of bag that you can bring into an event. Clear bags that match the size dimensions are not easy to find off the shelf. Click the amazon that I linked above to get an idea of what you are looking for.
If you get to an event and have a bag (or other type of item) that is not permitted, security will ask you to return it to your car before you will be granted access into the event.
Spectator Etiquette
One of the most important things when attending a PGA event is to follow the etiquette expected of spectators. Golf is a sport that takes extreme concentration to play. Any types of sudden noises in a golfer’s back-swing can cause an errant shot.
But banning spectators from tournaments would not do any good for the PGA. So instead, the PGA extends confidence in its fan to be respectful to the competitors and to be quiet when golfers are executing shots.
With a toddler on the course, this is something you must consider. All babies are prone to unexpected outbursts, and having a baby right next to a golfer who is about to swing would not be a good idea.
If you bring your baby to the course, it is best to find an area where there is distance between yourself and the golfers just in case your young one has an outburst.
Crowds
PGA tournament events can draw huge crowds. At some events, single-day crowds can be in excess of 100,000 people. The course is quite large, so those 100,000 plus people will be spread out between grandstands, walking galleries, and merchandise and food stands. But the size of crowd is something to consider.
Pushing a stroller around a golf course with that many people may be a nuisance for you. Whether or not you are up for that task will be a personal decision, but be prepared for a large crowd, especially if some of the mega-stars are playing.
Toddler Protection
You will also want to consider what type of appropriate protection your toddler will need on the course. Sun and loud noises can be harmful to babies, and both can be prominent at large PGA events.
Make sure you bring appropriate sun protection and noise protection if you attend an event. It may be best to speak with your baby’s doctor to see if they have an opinion on what you will need to bring.
Although it is unlikely, it’s also important to remember that there are flying golf balls at PGA tournaments, not all of which go where the players intend them to go. Spectators may be hit with golf balls. It has happened many times and serious injuries can result.
Golf tournaments are often very hot as well. So be aware of the forecast and take appropriate precautions.
Enjoyment
Maybe the final thing to consider is your overall enjoyment. Taking a baby with you to the course will alter what you do on the course and how you enjoy the overall event. Not all terrain at a PGA tournament will be stroller-friendly.
Perhaps this is something that won’t bother you, but if it will, if you are going to spend the money to buy tickets for the event, perhaps it is best to find a babysitter so that you can do what you please while you are at the event.
Related PGA Questions
Do Babies Need A Ticket For A PGA Event?
Usually, no. Every event has different guidelines, so it would be best to contact your specific event and ask them directly. Most events (whether it be 17-or-under or 12-or-under etc.) have an age break where they allow kids younger than that to get in free if accompanied with a paying adult.
Is There Medical Personnel On Site?
Yes, all PGA events will have medical personnel on site if you need to see them. The event should have maps available that give locations for medical tents.
How Long are PGA Tournaments?
PGA tournaments are 4-day events, ending almost always on Sundays. Golf is played almost the entire time that natural light allows. Gates at some events open at 6:30 am and close at 7:30pm. Golf is an all-day event. The length of the day should be considered when bringing a toddler.
Can I Leave And Go To My Car if Needed?
Likely, no. Most PGA events do not allow you to leave the premises then re-enter the tournament. Once a ticket is used to enter the event, it cannot be used again.
Can You Bring a Baby to Other Golf Tournaments?
If you are hoping to bring your baby to other types of golf tournaments (like college or high school or local amateur) this is an issue which might require you to contact the event personally and ask them.
Likely, yes, your baby will be allowed. But every event has different policies. Many of the same issues detailed above will apply to these events as well. Security policies will likely not exist so you may be able to bring a few extra items if needed.