Ireland Packing List (28 Things You Might Forget to Bring)

👉 Jump to: Travel Essentials for Ireland | Essentials | Clothing to Pack | Seasonal Items to Pack | Packing Tips | Get Printable Version

Urban activities, outdoor adventures, potential weather — these were all things that overwhelmed me as I packed for my first trip to Ireland. I also had limited luggage space (because I do everything I can to avoid checking a bag). 

With careful planning, I made it through my trip without a hitch. But I sure wish I had had a packing guide to get me through the process with far less effort. After all, bringing the right essentials is one of the most important travel tips for Ireland.

So here’s my gift to you: A complete Ireland packing list with seasonal clothing suggestions, helpful tech gadgets, and tips for packing like a pro. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be ready for anything as soon as you land in the Emerald Isle.

Travel Essentials for Ireland

🖨️ Get a free, printable version of my packing list here!

Travel Backpack

Travel backpacks aren’t for everyone but in Ireland, I recommend them for a few reasons. First, cobblestone roads are common in major cities. This is especially true in touristed districts like Dublin’s Temple Bar and Galway’s Quay Street. Don’t run the risk of breaking a wheel on your rolling bag. 

Instead, opt for something like the Tortuga travel backpack. With it, you can easily navigate city streets — even in crowds, which is trickier with a rolling suitcase. Additionally, the Tortuga is comfortable, lightweight, and carry-on friendly. Plus, its materials are waterproof and as you know, Ireland is notorious for rain. For more info, see my full Tortuga travel backpack review. 

Packing Cubes

I hate checked bag fees and swear by carry-on luggage. Sure, space is limited but if you know how to pack strategically, you can make them work (even on longer trips). My number-one tip? Packing cubes. Not only do they help you stay organized, but they compress clothing and allow you to pack so much more in your bag. 

I especially like the packing cubes by Tortuga as they vary in size and are ultra-lightweight. Plus, their see-through mesh makes it easy to tell what’s packed inside. Consider buying the Tortuga travel backpack and packing cubes bundle for a discount! 

Shoe Bags

You can bet with constant rainfall, your shoes are bound to get wet — and if you plan on hiking in Ireland, probably muddy, too. Avoid dirtying your bag and its contents with reusable shoe bags.

I like this shoe bag 5-pack because it’s super affordable and the bags have a clear strip, allowing you to see what’s inside. Plus, they’re long enough (17 inches) for larger shoe sizes, have drawstring closures, and are made with lightweight, waterproof fabric. 

Day Pack

In addition to your travel backpack, I recommend having a day pack. This can count as your personal item, allowing you to bring more on your trip without checked bag fees. It will also come in handy for daytime excursions. 

What’s great about the Osprey Daylite backpack is its versatility. Its sleek and simple design seamlessly transitions from city to outdoor adventures. Use its internal sleeve to carry your laptop to a coffee shop, or place a water reservoir in there before a hike! Additionally, the Daylite is comfortable, adjustable in size, and comes in a variety of fun colors. 

Filtration Water Bottle

Water in Ireland is generally safe to drink. But last year, the European Court of Justice ruled that its levels of trihalomethanes (THMs) exceeded EU safety standards [Source]. THMs are a byproduct of water treatment and studies have found that long-term exposure could present health risks.

Granted, you probably aren’t visiting Ireland for too long. But if you want to be extra cautious, consider packing a Prep-Right filtration bottle which removes THMs, among many other contaminants. These include chlorine, VOCs, and heavy metals, as well as 99.99% of harmful bacteria. It even filters sediment, which may come in handy while exploring outdoors. 

Travel Pillow

I do everything I can to stay healthy while traveling and quality rest is key. Since my flight to Dublin departed at 10 pm, I had full intention to sleep on the plane as much as I could. That way, I could hit the ground running — and thanks to my trtl travel pillow, I did just that. 

Honestly, I can’t recommend this product enough. It packs down small and is super plush, yet sturdy enough to hold the weight of your head. Neck cramping isn’t an issue. Use it to sleep soundly and comfortably (without the fear of awkwardly waking up on your neighbor’s shoulder). 

Universal Travel Plug Adapter

No matter what I buy, I want it to serve more than one purpose. That’s why when I traveled to Ireland, I opted for a universal travel plug adapter. Its four plugs work in more than 150 countries including those in the UK, continental Europe, and the USA. 

Use it to charge up to six devices at home, as well as abroad. This small device has four USB-A ports, one USB-C port, and an AC socket. 

Portable Power Bank

In a recent perspective piece, senior travel writer Betty shares what she wishes she knew before traveling solo through Europe. A couple of key takeaways: Don’t wear tractionless Converse to the slippery Cliffs of Moher and keep your phone charged. Especially in a foreign country, you always want to be able to call for help and have access to a GPS. 

Give yourself peace of mind by packing this portable charger by INIU. It’s super thin and weighs just 7 ounces — that’s less than a tenth of a pound! There are two USB-A ports and a USB-C port, and it can charge some devices multiple times. 

E-Reader

Reading is a great way to pass the time on a flight and enjoy a cozy, drizzly day indoors. But lugging heavy, bulky hardcovers overseas is a no-go. 

Instead, pack an Amazon Kindle to have your entire library at your fingertips. You can download thousands of books onto this lightweight device which holds a charge for up to six weeks! This e-reader also allows you to toggle its brightness and doesn’t glare so no matter where you are, a good book is within reach. 

👉 Book Recommendation: Learn how to travel in Ireland (and anywhere!) with our Budget Travel 101 e-book! 

Earbuds

Earbuds are one of the essentials that help me travel happier and hassle-free. 

On my recent road trip through Ireland, these Kuizil Bluetooth earbuds came in handy so many times. I used them to listen to music on flights, to hear Cliffs of Moher and Aran Islands audio guides, and to simply tune out as these earbuds are noise canceling. Different-sized tips make them comfortable and at under $30, they’re a great value, too! 

Wrinkle Release Spray

When I travel, I fold and roll my clothes into packing cubes. Though this maximizes space in my bag, wrinkles are inevitable. And let’s be honest — ironing is a pain and shower steam kind of works, but not really.

Cue Downy wrinkle releaser spray. It gets rid of those tough creases with hardly any effort. Plus, it refreshes the scent of clothing and works on a variety of fabrics. 

Laundry Bag

You know the “bad apple spoils the bunch” metaphor? Undoubtedly, this applies to dirty laundry. A couple of sweaty socks mixed in with your clean clothing means, well, nothing is clean. 

A laundry bag offers a simple solution to that problem. I especially like this laundry bag 2-pack by JHX because the bags fold down small and expand significantly. There’s even a small zip pouch on each, perfect for storing a pack of detergent. 

Grocery Totes

In 2002, Ireland became the first country to implement a plastic bag fee [Source]. Now, many countries have followed suit. Perhaps you’re already used to bringing reusable totes to the grocery store. If so, consider packing what you own. 

If not (or you’re in need of some new ones), get this Kingmas tote 2-pack. They’re great for travel because they fold down to a tiny square pouch. Plus, they’re lightweight yet can hold up to 50 pounds! I also love the fun patterns available and of course, their affordable price. 

Travel Utensils

Want to know how to travel on a budget? Here’s one of my top tips: Don’t eat out all the time. On our recent trip to Ireland, my husband and I made simple, easy meals like hummus-falafel wraps and peanut butter sandwiches. The problem was, we didn’t pack utensils so smearing spreads required… some creativity. 

Avoid our mistake and make mealtime easy with these travel utensils. They’re lightweight and each of the four sets comes with a case for packing ease.  

Over-The-Counter Medications

You can wash your hands and cross your fingers but sometimes, sickness is inevitable. That’s why I always pack over-the-counter medications when I travel. Better to be prepared than pretend it won’t happen! 

This travel medicine kit includes seven types of medications: medi-lyte (replenishes electrolytes), ibuprofen, antacid, mediproxen (i.e. Aleve), medi-meclizine (treats motion sickness), loradamed (treats allergies) and a sinus decongestant. Each is individually wrapped and labeled with instructions, making them ideal for packing. 

First Aid Kit

A first aid kit should always be part of your hiking essentials checklist. But even if you plan on staying in the city, things happen — even minor bumps and bruises. 

There’s no harm in planning ahead and this mini first aid kit is perfect for travel. It’s just a half pound in weight, super compact, and can clip to the outside of your pack. I also like that it includes cleansing wipes, various bandage sizes, and even moleskin which is so helpful for blister care. (Although, with a good pair of walking shoes, hopefully, that won’t be an issue!) 

Toothbrush Covers

It goes without saying: Don’t forget to pack your toothbrush. But also, don’t forget a toothbrush cover! 

I like these toothbrush covers because they’re ventilated and therefore, they’re more hygienic than sealed alternatives which don’t allow a toothbrush to properly dry. Additionally, this product is far easier to clean than the covers that encase an entire toothbrush. This affordable 4-pack will last you a long while and get plenty of use. 

Dry Shampoo

Prior to my recent Ireland trip, I hadn’t used dry shampoo in years. But wow, what a worthwhile purchase. It came in handy several times. For example, we’d go on a morning hike and then hit a couple of pubs. This hair care product instantly made me look and feel fresher before our afternoon activities. 

Do the same with this travel-size dry shampoo by Batiste. Without leaving any kind of powdery residue, it’ll help remove excess oil between washes. Plus, it smells great — but not perfumey. My husband, who also has long hair, loved using this product on our travels, too.  

Toiletry Bag

If you plan on staying in a hotel versus a hostel, this one may not apply to you. But when it comes to the latter, communal bathrooms are often the norm, and cleaning up after yourself is one of the unspoken rules of hostel etiquette. Do not leave your toiletries around, as they’ll likely get tossed. 

This hanging toiletry bag is a great solution, as it keeps all your belongings neatly organized and at the ready. Store your shampoo, conditioner, and soap inside, as well as make-up and other items — it’s that spacious and even waterproof. 

Travel Insurance

According to TheTravel, Ireland is one of the most expensive destinations in Europe. I spent a pretty penny on my trip and fortunately, things went smoothly. But you never know when sickness, a natural disaster, or other emergencies may strike. 

Many travel insurance policies cover all of the above. Some even offer rental car protection, cover the value of lost/stolen luggage, and more. TravelInsurance.com is our top recommended service, but read our guide on Ireland travel insurance sites for more great options. 

Checklist of Other Ireland Essentials to Pack

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste 
• Razors 
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Hand sanitizer 
• Chapstick
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Contact lens solution and case
• Prescription medications 
• Ear plugs 
• Sleep mask
• Cell phone and charger 
• Laptop and charger 
• Passport 
• An alternate ID (e.g. driver’s license)

Clothing, Shoes, & Accessories to Pack for Ireland

As you pack for Ireland, consider what the locals generally wear: comfortable, casual, and darker-colored clothing. Simple layers are also common given the weather and of course, seasons play a role, too. 

The best time to visit Ireland is from May to September. But overall, the country has a relatively mild climate. Temperatures generally range from 40°F in the winter to around 60°F in the summer. Rainfall is common throughout the entire year — hence why you should pack the below…

Rain Jacket

According to Ireland’s Blue Book, April and June are the driest months, while December and January see the most rainfall. Still, rain should be expected at any time of the year. 

Amazingly, I experienced only one rainy morning during my 10-day trip in September. But I sure was happy I packed my REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket. It folds compactly into its pocket, comes in a variety of colors, and is super effective at keeping you dry. Plus, it’s available in a men’s version. 

Waterproof Hiking Boots

I’ll say it again: It rains in Ireland. Plan for the weather with a pair of waterproof shoes. 

My husband and I swear by our Merrell Moab boots. In my opinion, they’re the best option on the market. They’re ideal for hiking with tons of traction but are great for wearing around the city, too. I also love that they’re comfortable right out of the box — no breaking-in necessary. Get them in men’s and women’s sizes. 

Walking Shoes

During our Ireland trip, my husband and I walked just under 60 miles and got zero blisters. Quality, comfortable walking shoes are everything.

I promise I’m not sponsored by Merrell. I just absolutely love and trust this brand, and I highly recommend a pair of Merrell MQM shoes. They’re available in women’s and men’s sizes, and technically, they’re trail runners. Expect a great grip while out hiking, too. 

Crossbody Bag

It’s important to keep your values close, especially in crowded spaces where pickpocketing is a greater risk. Some prefer a traditional money belt but personally, I’d rather not fuss with untucking and re-tucking clothing in public — especially when I’m trying to quickly snap a photo or pay for a purchase. 

Instead, my husband and I carried this Carhartt crossbody bag and it worked great. Along with a snap closure, the pouch zips shut for added security. It’s small enough not to be a burden, but spacious enough to hold a cellphone, passport, credit cards, etc. The bag also converts into a waist pouch if that’s more your style. 

Other Clothing, Shoes, & Accessories to Pack for Ireland

So what clothing, shoes, and accessories should you pack for Ireland? Here’s a quick checklist for a 7-day Ireland itinerary (no laundry days required): 

• 2-3 pairs of jeans/slacks 
• 1 pair of hiking pants 
• 1 pair of dress pants 
• 4-6 t-shirts
• 2-3 flannels/long-sleeve shirts  
• 1 dress shirt/blouse  
• 1 nice dress 
• 1-2 sweaters 
• 1 rain jacket 
• 1 blazer/sport coat 
• 1 pair of walking shoes 
• 1 pair of hiking boots 
• 7 pairs of underwear
• 7 pairs of socks varying in thickness 

Seasonal Items to Pack for Ireland

As discussed, temperatures in Ireland are pretty mild year-round, generally ranging between 40 and 60°F. But there are certain seasonal items and clothing you might want to pack when visiting Ireland. Here are a few recommendations:  

Sandals

When the weather is warm, you won’t want to miss walks around town and Ireland’s gorgeous Atlantic beaches. Proper footwear is essential to make the most of the long summer days. 

I love my Chaco sandals because they’re sturdy, comfortable, and super versatile. Wear them anywhere — even on rocky trails thanks to their great grip, and in the water because they dry very quickly. The classic Z/2 sandal is available in both women’s and men’s sizes, plus lots of fun colors and patterns.    

Sun Hat

I questioned if I’d really use my sunglasses and ball cap in rainy Ireland, but I ended up wearing them on almost every hike. If you plan on being outdoors, consider one of these simple Edoneery baseball caps. They’re easy to strap to the outside of your pack and come in a wide array of colors (including my favorite, mustard yellow!) 

Warm Hat

While Ireland has a temperate climate, it can get chilly at certain times of the year. When I went night kayaking (which is a popular Ireland tour), I was glad I packed my Carhartt beanie. Its simple style goes with everything and the waffle knit keeps me extra warm. In addition to heather gray, it’s available in black and Carhartt’s classic camel brown color.

Gloves

Even outdoors, thick snow gloves are generally a bit excessive in Ireland. But a thin, versatile pair is well worth packing from late fall through the winter. I like these Timberland gloves because the fingertips work with cell phones and other touchscreen devices. They also come in simple, solid colors including charcoal and light gray, black, brown, and dusty pink. 

Other Seasonal Items to Pack for Ireland

So what seasonal items should you pack for Ireland? Here’s a quick checklist with summer and winter items: 

• 1 swimsuit 
• 1 beach coverup
• 1 ball cap or sunhat 
• 1 pair of sunglasses 
• 1 pair of sandals 
• 1 warm hat 
• 1 pair of thin gloves 
• 1-2 pairs of merino wool socks 
• 1 midweight jacket
• 1 thick scarf

🖨️ Get a printable version of the packing list here

Ireland Packing Tips

Pack Something Nice for an Evening Out

In general, Irish fashion is practical and casual. But I recommend packing one outfit for a special occasion, whether that be a nice dinner, a show at the theater, or an upscale stay. 

Depending on the time of the year, pack a sundress or sleek slacks and a blouse. Men should consider a pair of dark jeans or dress pants, a collared shirt, and perhaps a sports coat, too. Don’t forget shoes to match!    

Choose Versatile Pieces Whenever Possible

I wanted to see as much as I reasonably could on my trip to Ireland — which meant I didn’t want to allot any time to a laundromat. Granted, if you’re planning a longer stay, this chore is inevitable. But if you’re just visiting for a week or so, versatile pieces will help save you the hassle. 

I’m a big fan of capsule wardrobes when traveling. Think about neutral tones, solids over prints, and simple cuts that are easy to mix and match. Bonus: They also don’t go out of style, meaning more cash in your pocket and less waste in the landfill. 

Save Room for Souvenirs

Aside from the postcards I collect when traveling, I’m not particularly big on souvenirs. However, I knew I had to get a sweater from the Aran Islands when visiting. These wool turtlenecks and cardigans feature symbolic stitchwork and are simply beautiful — but they take up a good amount of space in a pack. 

Whether you get yourself a sweater or want to bring back other gifts for loved ones, consider leaving a bit of room in your luggage. Some forethought could save you from scrambling the evening before a flight. 

Don’t Bother with an Umbrella

An umbrella might seem like an obvious item to pack for Ireland. But generally, it won’t do you much good. The country isn’t just rainy, but also windy. You may very well lug it across the Atlantic only for it to break with a strong gust of wind. Umbrellas will prove especially useless along the coast so in my opinion, skip it altogether and go with a quality rain jacket instead.

Consider a Travel Backpack Over a Rolling Suitcase 

In case you missed my spiel at the top of this guide, let me reiterate: In bustling city centers, a travel backpack will serve you much better than a rolling suitcase. Cheap, plastic wheels and cobblestone roads are not a strategic combo. Additionally, it’s easier to navigate crowds. 

Just be sure to purchase a quality product like the Tortuga travel backpack. An achy back and shoulders are the last thing you want on your long-awaited trip. 

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Thanks for reading and enjoy your visit to the Emerald Isle! Be sure to check out our guides to where to stay in Dublin and where to stay in Galway if you’re still looking for accommodations.

🖨️ Get a printable version of my Ireland packing list here