Ireland is a beautiful country with diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. However, packing for a trip to Ireland can be a challenge due to the country’s unpredictable weather patterns.
As the saying goes,
If you don’t like the weather in Ireland, wait five minutes.
That’s why we’ve put together a complete Ireland vacation packing list, taking into account the all-year-round weather and the various activities you might partake in.
Moreover, the temperature in Ireland has a yearly average range between 42°F(5.5°C) and 70°F(21°C). Whether you plan to explore the charming cities or hike through the stunning countryside, our Ireland trip packing list will ensure that you’re prepared for anything. In addition to the packing list, we’ve also included some valuable tips to help you make the most of your trip.
Before diving into our packing list for trip to Ireland, here are some quick facts and tips about Ireland.
Quick Facts About Ireland
- Ireland’s official-currency is the Euro (€). The nation has two official languages: Irish and English.
- The ideal time to visit Ireland depends on your tastes and interests. The shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October are perfect for moderate weather and less tourists.
- If you want to experience the vibrant festivals and events, plan your trip during the summer months of June-August.
- Dublin is the capital of Ireland and a must-visit city for travelers. It offers historic landmarks, lively nightlife, and charming streets.
Ireland Vacation Packing List Tips
- Ireland is known for its cold and rainy weather, even during the summer months. Therefore, it’s essential to pack layers of clothing and woolen to stay warm and comfortable. Additionally, waterproof clothing such as raincoats and boots are a must-have to protect yourself from the rain.
- An umbrella may seem like a good idea to stay dry during the rain, it’s not practical in Ireland. The country experiences high winds, making it challenging to use an umbrella without it getting damaged or blown away.
- With the unpredictable weather in Ireland, it’s better to pack boots or tennis shoes instead of flats. Boots will keep your feet warm and dry during the rainy weather, while tennis shoes are comfortable and suitable for long walks and hikes.
- If you plan to visit Ireland during the winter months, make sure to pack warm clothes, hats, and gloves to stay warm. However, if you plan to visit during the summer, pack light layers as the weather can be unpredictable, and you may experience both sunny and rainy days.
- Ireland uses the Type G plug, so it’s essential to bring a power adapter to charge your electronic devices.
Ireland Trip Packing List with tips and info
Following categorized short list is with tips, you can view full list with just items towards the end of the article.
Clothing
Socks
Pack multiple pairs so that you can change them if they get wet during the rain. This will help keep your feet warm and dry.
Jacket
A warm jacket is a must-have for Ireland. A parka is recommended, but if you don’t have one, make sure your jacket has actual insulation instead of just a thin membrane. This will help protect you from both the chilly and rainy weather.
Cardigan
If you tend to feel too cold in general, bring a cardigan for indoor use. This will help you stay comfortable in places where the heating might not be as strong.
Windbreaker Jacket
Optional
Bring windbreaker jacket, it will protect you from the wind and light rain, without adding too much bulk.
Polyester t-shirt
If you’re planning on doing outdoor activities like hiking or trailing, consider packing a polyester t-shirt. This material wicks away sweat and dries quickly, making it a great choice for active pursuits.
Rain Poncho
Optional
A rain poncho is a lightweight and compact option for when it’s not too windy but raining. It’s a great alternative to a bulky raincoat and won’t take up too much space in your luggage.
Fleece Jacket
In case it gets too cold, bring a fleece jacket for an extra layer. This will help you stay warm and cozy, even on the chilliest of days.
Raincoat
When it comes to raincoats, make sure you choose a solid one that can withstand strong winds. Ireland can get quite blustery, so you want to make sure you’re protected from the elements.
Trench Coat
If your trench coat doesn’t have a hood, make sure to pack a rain hat that easily folds into your pocket. This will help keep your head and face dry, even during heavy downpours.
Footwear
Water shoes
Optional
If you’re not a fan of boots, water shoes come in Ireland packing essentials. They can be a great alternative for walking in wet conditions.
Trail Shoe
Optional
If you want to engage in any outdoor activity, like hiking, a pair of trail shoes can be a good choice. They provide better grip and support, making your adventure more comfortable.
Boots
Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable, so a pair of good boots is a must. Opt for waterproof and warm boots to keep your feet dry and cozy during rainy days. Plus, a nice-looking leather boot can be versatile and suitable for special occasions too.
Foldable shoe-slippers
Optional
It’s always a good idea to have a pair of indoor shoes when traveling. Pack a pair of foldable shoe-slippers to wear in your hotel room or around the house. They are convenient, lightweight, and easy to pack.
Toiletries
Cadence Containers
Opt for cadence containers to minimize the amount of space your toiletries take up in your luggage. Consider bringing moisturizer, toner, face sunscreen, curl cream, curl gel, and leave-in conditioner in these containers.
Money and valuables
International Currency
In Ireland, the currency used is the Euro (€), so be sure to have some on hand. If you’re traveling internationally, be sure to have some currency from your home country on hand as well. This can come in handy for emergencies or unexpected expenses.
Electronics
Travel adaptor
Don’t forget to bring a travel adaptor that’s compatible with the plug type used in Ireland. The plug type in Ireland is G, which has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. Ireland operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
Full Travel Packing List for Ireland
Clothing
- T-shirt
- Shirts
- Shorts
- Midi-dresses
- Maxi dresses
- Socks
- Bras
- Underwear
- Jacket
- Beanie
- Cardigan
- Windbreaker Jacket(optional)
- Polyester t-shirt
- Rain Poncho(optional)
- Travel Towel
- Scarf
- Waterproof Jacket
- Warm bed socks
- Fleece Jacket
- Warm Gloves
- Long-sleeve shirts
- Raincoat
- Parkas
- Trench Coat
- Rain hat
Footwear
- Tennis Shoes
- Water shoes(optional)
- Trail Shoe(optional)
- Boots
- Foldable shoe-slippers(optional)
Toiletries
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Hairbrush / comb
- Hair Ties
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Motion sickness pills(optional)
- Deodorant
- Feminine hygiene products
- Razor
- Shaving cream
- Makeup(optional)
- Makeup remover(optional)
- Curling iron(optional)
- Straightener(optional)
- Perfume
- Chapstick
- Floss
- Cadence Containers
Accessories
- Sunglasses
- Sling Bag(optional)
- Wallet
Personal items
- Glasses
- Contact lenses
- Contact lenses solution
- Prescription medications
- Insulin
Money and valuables
- Credit cards
- Emergency contact information
- International Currency
Electronics
- Phone
- Camera and it’s accessories
- Memory Cards
- Chargers for all electronic devices
- Travel adaptor
- Portable charger(optional)
Travel documents
- Passport
- Visa (if required)
- Travel itinerary
- Travel insurance
- Health insurance
- Driver’s license or international driver’s permit
- ID
- Guidebook or map(optional)
- Boarding pass
- Hotel reservations
- Car reservations
Gears
- Waterproof backpack
- Binoculars(optional)
- Trekking Poles(optional)
Miscellaneous
- Daypack
- Water Bottle
- Packing Cubes
- Laundry bags
- Waterproofing Spray
FAQs
- Waterproof jacket or raincoat
- Comfortable pants or jeans
- Waterproof shoes or boots
- Scarf, hat, and gloves for colder weather
- Eyeglasses and contacts
- Foundation, blush, setting powder, and brush
- Hand lotion
- Camera or smartphone for capturing the stunning landscapes
- Portable charger for your electronics
- Warm coat or jacket
- Sweaters or fleece jackets
- Waterproof shoes
- Moisturizer to combat dry skin
- Lip balm to prevent chapped lips
- Makeup and skincare products as desired
- Portable charger
- Plan for layering with lightweight shirts and sweaters
- Invest in a good-quality waterproof or water-resistant coat or jacket
- Bring one or two pairs of versatile, comfortable, waterproof shoes
- Minimize toiletries by bringing travel-sized items or buying them in Ireland
- Pack a lightweight backpack for day trips and as a carry-on bag
- Roll your garments to optimize space in your suitcase
The best time to visit Ireland is during the peak season from June through early September for longer days and warm weather, while winter travelers can experience no crowds, soft room prices, and big festivals like St. Patrick’s Day and Halloween celebrations brighten up the darker months.
Outro
In conclusion, packing for a trip to Ireland can be challenging, but with our complete travel packing list for Ireland and tips, you’ll be well-prepared for anything the country throws your way. From the unpredictable weather to the unique plug type, being ready for Ireland’s quirks will make your trip much more enjoyable. Also, keep in mind the driving rules, tipping etiquette, and the best time to visit Ireland to make the most of your journey. With these tips and a well-packed bag, you’re ready to explore the stunning landscapes, historic landmarks, and lively cities that Ireland has to offer.