Why a Well‑Stocked Bag Matters
Disc golf isn’t just about your throws or your discs. It’s also about adapting to changing conditions, being self‑reliant, and avoiding avoidable mistakes. A good bag setup gives you flexibility, keeps you safe, and saves you from scrambling mid‑round.
The 13 Must‑Have Items
1. Snacks & Fuel
Rounds often stretch long, especially when you’re chasing lines or walking tricky layouts. I carry compact, non‑perishable snacks like beef jerky, granola bars, trail mix, or dried fruit. They’re light, won’t spoil, and give me energy when I need it most.
2. Insect Repellent / Bug Spray
If you play wooded or overgrown courses, bugs will find you. I keep a small pump or aerosol insect repellent in my bag. It’s saved me from dozens of itchy distractions—and helps when you’re creeping into thick rough or clearing brush.
3. Disc Golf Retriever
One of the best investments I’ve made: a retriever. Water hazards, ponds, deep brush—they’re all out there waiting to gobble discs. A telescoping pole or claw device pays for itself when you save even a few premium discs.
You can browse retrievers on InfiniteDiscs.com’s retriever section.
4. Towels (x2 if possible)
One towel for drying discs, another for your hands. Moisture—whether from rain, dew, or sweat—is the enemy of grip. I keep a microfiber or disc‑specific towel, and sometimes a backup kitchen towel if I need it.
5. Water Bottle / Hydration
Hydration is non-negotiable, especially in hot or humid conditions. I carry a reusable water bottle (or bladder) so I can refill on the go. If possible, I also leave a backup in the car.
6. Pencil / Marker
Scorekeeping and marking are basic but essential. I carry a pencil (for scorecards) and a marker (to label new discs, write names, or sign a basket after an ace). Always better to have both so you’re never caught without.
7. Scorecards & Course Map / Notes
Having extra scorecards is smart—friends might forget theirs, or cards can get smudged. I also sometimes carry a folded map, course layout print, or hand‑written notes about tricky holes. Over time, I refer back to earlier rounds to guide my strategy.
8. Mini Clipboard or Clip Board
A small clipboard helps keep your card and pencil organized, even in wind or rain. When I don’t have a dedicated board, I clip cards to a firm plastic backing or even use a spare disc as a makeshift backing.
9. Compact First Aid Kit
No matter how cautious I am, scrapes, slips, blisters, or minor cuts happen. I pack a small kit with band‑aids, antiseptic wipes, blister pads, and a few adhesive bandages. I check it every few months to restock.
10. Mini / Mini Marker Disc
A mini marker is lightweight and multifunctional. Use it to mark your lie, block an opponent’s line, or as a fun collectible. I carry a couple—no harm if one gets lost in the underbrush.
You can check out a variety of mini marker discs at Altitude Disc Golf if you want to pick up a few.
11. Sunscreen / Lip Balm with SPF
Sunburn or lip burn are real game killers. I keep a small active‑sport sunscreen and SPF lip balm in my bag. Reapply mid-round if needed, especially on exposed courses.
12. Baseball / Small Weighted Ball
Odd as it sounds, a baseball or similar ball is perfect for knocking discs loose from branches. Instead of tossing rocks, I toss a ball straight at stuck plastic to nudge it free. It’s small, effective, and often forgotten—until you need it.
13. Chapstick / Lip Conditioner
Dry winds, cold weather, or strong sun can wreak havoc on your lips. Chapstick or lip balm (with or without SPF) is a small but morale-saving item I never leave behind.
How to Prioritize Your Bag Space
Not all bags have infinite room. Here’s how I decide what to load first:
- Essential: water, snacks, a towel, shoes/stance gear, retriever (if relevant)
- High value: first aid kit, bug spray, sunscreen
- Nice to have: clipboard, extra scorecards, baseball, minis, chapstick
I also consider redundancy: if I know a local course has potable water or a shop nearby, I’ll carry less water. But I never skip hydration in unfamiliar settings.
Final Thoughts
Your discs and your arm are the stars, but your bag is your lifeline. When you’re prepared for little surprises—wet footing, scratched discs, missing gear—you can stay focused on every shot. Over time, you’ll dial in what works for *your* play style and courses. I hope this list helps you build a bag that handles all conditions, keeps you in the game, and lets you throw without worry.