Thai golf caddies are much more than bag carriers: they are true playing partners who can transform your golf experience. Mandatory at nearly all courses, they know every corner of the terrain and can help you save 5 to 10 strokes per round.
Why Caddies Are Mandatory in Thailand
Unlike Europe or the United States, caddies are mandatory at 95% of Thai golf courses. This tradition exists for several reasons:
- Local employment: Clubs employ hundreds of caddies, typically women, creating essential jobs for rural communities
- Pace of play: Caddies speed up play by anticipating your needs
- Course maintenance: They repair divots and ball marks
- Course knowledge: Their expertise improves your score
The caddie fee (approximately 350-400 THB or $10-11 USD) is paid at the pro shop with your green fee. The tip is given directly to the caddie at the end of your round.
How Much Should You Tip?
Tipping is expected and represents a significant portion of caddies' income. Here are recommended amounts for 2025:
| Course Type | Recommended Tip | In USD |
|---|---|---|
| Standard / Budget courses | 300-400 THB | ~$9-11 |
| Premium courses (Hua Hin, Phuket) | 400-600 THB | ~$11-17 |
| 5-Star clubs | 500-700 THB | ~$14-20 |
| Private clubs | 700-1000 THB | ~$20-28 |
General rule: A minimum of 400 THB is considered standard. Give more if your caddie provided exceptional service (accurate green reading, relevant strategic advice, positive attitude).
How Caddies Improve Your Score
A good Thai caddie can help you save 5 to 10 strokes per round. Here's how:
Green Reading
- Knowledge of invisible slopes
- Grass grain (particularly important in Asia)
- Green speed based on weather and time of day
Club and Distance Advice
- Precise distances to the flag
- Hidden hazards and areas to avoid
- Local wind effects (sea breeze in Phuket, mountain wind in Chiang Mai)
Course Strategy
- Best approach angle based on pin position
- Recommended drop zones
- Dogleg and water hazard management
Tips for Working Well with Your Caddie
Do
- Communicate: Tell them your skill level and expectations from the start
- Listen to their advice: Even if you disagree, their course knowledge is valuable
- Be patient: English may be limited, use simple gestures
- Show respect: A smile and courtesy go a long way
Don't
- Don't criticize: Even after a bad shot, stay positive
- Don't ignore them: They're there to help you
- Don't negotiate the tip: It's culturally inappropriate
Regional Characteristics
| Region | Caddie Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Bangkok / Pattaya | Generally better English, accustomed to international tourists |
| Hua Hin | Advanced training on premium courses (Black Mountain, Banyan) |
| Phuket | Experience with golfers from all backgrounds, knowledge of sea breeze effects |
| Chiang Mai | More relaxed atmosphere, excellent knowledge of mountain courses |
Total Caddie Budget Per Round
For an 18-hole round in 2025, expect:
- Caddie fee: 350-400 THB (~$10) — paid at pro shop
- Tip: 400-600 THB (~$12-17) — given directly to caddie
- Total: 750-1000 THB (~$21-28) per round
This cost remains very reasonable compared to Europe or the US where caddie services are rare and far more expensive.
Sources: Thailand Golf Zone, GolfSavers, Birdie Golf, Golf Sidekick