Your Ultimate Ireland Travel Checklist

Packing for Ireland isn’t just about stuffing a suitcase. It’s about preparing for a land of shifting skies, soft rain, and spontaneous adventures. One minute you’re strolling sunlit cobblestones in Galway, the next you’re ducking into a pub while the mist rolls in. 

The weather has a mind of its own here, and the landscape will take you from bog to beach in a single afternoon. So, how do you pack for a place that wears all four seasons in one day? Let’s take it layer by layer.

Dress in Layers, Live in Comfort

The golden rule for Irish travel is layers. Start with breathable base layers like cotton or merino wool tees, then add a warm sweater. On top, a waterproof jacket will be your go-to (and bonus points if it’s wind-resistant). Irish rain tends to arrive sideways, so you’ll quickly find that it’s easier to ditch the umbrella and go for a good hood instead. 

In spring or fall, consider bringing a lightweight down or trench coat for added warmth without the bulk. Even in the summer, it’s helpful to have something when the sun slips behind the clouds or sets for the evening.

Wool is your friend here. A soft sweater will add some warmth, and the natural fibers still breathe well through changing temperatures. Just don’t underestimate how often you’ll add or remove a layer throughout the day. Mornings might start in a sea fog but, in the evening, you could find yourself longing for a light jacket. 

Footwear That Can Go the Distance

You’ll likely be on your feet a lot, whether you’re exploring castle ruins, trekking along cliff paths, or navigating cobbled streets. Waterproof walking shoes or sneakers are ideal for city streets and countryside rambles. 

If you’re planning any serious hikes, like scaling Croagh Patrick or tackling the Wicklow Way, hiking boots are best (for that ankle support). But, for most trips, low-profile waterproof shoes or sturdy sneakers will serve you just fine.

Rain-Ready Essentials

Ireland is forty shades of green for a reason. Showers can strike at any moment and often pass just as quickly, like a mood swing in the sky. A small fold-up backpack cover can keep your essentials dry, and a microfiber travel towel is handy for everything from drying off a seat at the park to wiping down camera gear after a rainy photo op.

Sunglasses and sunscreen (or suncream) might seem optimistic, but you’ll be glad to have them. When the sun breaks through, it does so with cinematic flair, and, as you know, UV rays don’t disappear just because you’re under clouds most of the time.

Must-Have Basics

Then come the non-negotiables: your passport, travel documents, credit cards (plus a bit of cash in Euros), and a universal adapter for Ireland’s three-prong outlets (the same as the UK). Make sure you have an international plan, or consider a local SIM card or eSIM.

A portable power bank will come in handy when you’re using maps, taking photos, and Googling “best distilleries in Ireland.” (P.S. Be sure to download offline maps via Google because there will be plenty of spots with no reception where you’ll still want Google to guide the way.) 

Keep your day bag stocked with a refillable water bottle, lip balm, tissues, band-aids (or plasters here in Ireland), sunscreen, and basic painkillers. Little things that can make a big difference when you’re out exploring all day.