Updated December 6, 2023
Ireland is the land of endless green, captivating folklore, and pints of Guinness that taste like they're kissed by angels.
But before you hop on that plane to the Emerald Isle, let's talk turkey—or rather, let's talk packing.
You've heard the saying, "There's no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing."
Well, when you visit Ireland you might experience two or three seasons in a single day. That's why planning a trip to Ireland requires a bit more than just throwing random clothes into a suitcase.
An Ireland packing list is essential. Let's make sure you're prepared for whatever the Irish weather throws your way—be it sunshine or a sudden rain shower.
To make it easy I’ve included links to some of my favorite products throughout the list. If you decide to purchase through the link I may get a small commission, but it doesn’t affect the price you pay.
What to consider when visiting Ireland
While I’ve created an outline for an Ireland packing list, you’ll need to customize it to fit your trip. This Ireland packing list is designed to cover a 1-week trip, so you can add or subtract things based on how long your Ireland trip will be.
Make sure you check the weather forecast for each destination you plan to visit. Remember, the weather where you currently are probably isn’t similar to the weather in Ireland, so make sure to take a look and plan ahead!
Also think about what you’re planning to do while you’re visiting Ireland. Will you be hiking, visiting coasts and cliffs that get windy, pub-crawling in towns and cities, taking a road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way, or waiting outdoors for buses and trains? Plan according to what your Ireland itinerary includes!
The essentials: Your core Ireland packing list
The list below is for a one-week trip, so you’ll need to adjust accordingly for the amount of time you’ll be spending in Ireland. If you have access to a washer and dryer you can pack for 3-4 days and wash clothes, just make sure what you take can be washed and dried.
Must-haves
Even if you take nothing else with you and buy everything you need in Ireland after you land, there’s one thing you can’t travel without…
Your Passport!
As for what else you should put in your suitcase, here we go:
Clothing
3 long sleeve shirts
2-3 short sleeve shirts that can be layered for warmth if needed
1 dressier shirt or button-down shirt
2 pairs of jeans
2 pairs of other comfortable pants or leggings (my favorite are these yoga pants)
1-2 dresses (if you like to wear dresses when you travel)
1-2 sweaters or cardigans for layering
1 set of sleepwear
3-4 bras
8 pairs of underwear (always take an extra!)
8 pairs of socks (make sure they work with your shoe choices)
1 swimsuit (always travel with one, you never know when you’ll want it!)
1 pair of tennis shoes or walking shoes
1 pair of flats or nicer shoes
1 pair of waterproof walking shoes, rain boots or hiking boots (optional depending on what you’re planning on doing, but are always nice to have)
1 waterproof, windproof jacket or coat (jacket weight depends on the season)
Accessories
Scarf (I love these plaid scarves, they’re big enough to use as a small wrap)
Hat and gloves
Small reusable, foldable shopping bag (in Europe most stores charge for bags)
Small travel backpack or messenger bag (optional)
Jewelry (leave the expensive, valuable stuff at home)
Seasonal clothing variations
Summer (June, July, August)
Keep in mind that average high temperature in the summer months is below 70 degrees fahrenheit. Unless there’s an unusual heat wave you can leave those shorts and tank tops at home. Low temperatures tend to be in the mid 50s fahrenheit, so you’ll still want a jacket or coat. Northern Ireland (part of the United Kingdom and separate from the Republic of Ireland) is even cooler.
If you’re planning to spend time visiting the coast or the beautiful Cliffs of Moher, it’s very windy and cool year-round. You may want a hat and gloves handy even in the middle of summer.
1 pair of shorts (2 if the weather forecast is unseasonably warm)
1 light wind/rain jacket (optional)
1 pair of sandals (optional)
1 light zip-front hoodie or pullover to layer
Sunscreen
Winter (December, January, February)
If you visit Ireland in the winter, average temperatures range from the low 30s to the mid 40s fahrenheit. Snow isn’t common, but can happen. It can be very humid in the winter, making it feel colder than it is, and you’ll want to be prepared for wind and rain as well. Rain gear is essential in the winter if you don’t want to be cold and wet!
1 pair of waterproof boots or hiking shoes
3-4 pairs of wool socks if you’re spending much time outside
Fleece pullover or sweatshirt/sweater for layering (Eddie Bauer, North Face and Patagonia all have good options)
2-3 pairs of base layer pants or thermal underwear
1-2 pairs of water resistant or waterproof hiking pants (optional)
1 warm, waterproof and windproof coat or jacket (if you live in a warm climate, look for a jacket rated for temperatures between 0–32 degrees fahrenheit since the weather will feel very cold and damp)
Scarf, warm hat and warm gloves
Toiletries
Toiletries are some of the easiest things to get while you’re traveling if you need. I’ve often simply purchased things like shampoo, conditioner and body wash there if I need them so I don’t need to pack them and potentially have them leak.
Many US brands are available, but if there’s something specific you can’t live without it’s a good idea to take it with you.
Be aware if you’re taking electronics with you, like a curling iron or straightener, that in North America the power supply is 110 volt and European power is 220 volt. The plugs are also different.
There is often a dual-voltage outlet in the bathroom that can take an electric razor or electric toothbrush only. Do not try plugging a curling iron, straightener or hair dryer into these outlets, as you can cause extensive damage that you’ll need to pay for.
If you take a hair dryer, curling iron or hair straightener you’ll need both an adapter (to make the plug fit) and, if your appliance isn’t designed for both 110 and 220 volts, you’ll need a converter as well. If you’re planning to take electronics with you it’s worth checking to see if they’re dual voltage, a surprising number of new ones are.
Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner and body wash
Toothbrush, toothpaste and floss
Hair brush and/or comb
Hair clips, ponytail holders, etc.
Hair straightener or curling iron if you can’t live without it
Deodorant
Makeup and makeup remover or wipes
Razor and shaving cream or gel
Contacts, solution, and glasses if applicable
Small travel first aid kit
Medications (make sure these are in your carry-on, not your checked bag, in their original containers)
Feminine hygiene products
Hand sanitizer or wipes
Ireland travel tip: I like to make a quick stop at a drug store to pick up a few things shortly after arriving, like tissues and anything I pre-planned to purchase after arrival. I also take a look around to see what is available, that way if I need something later I know where to get it.
Tech gear
Since Ireland's electricity is 220-volt instead of the 110-volt in the US, be aware of what you’re plugging in and where. The good news is that anything that plugs into a USB port can be plugged into any USB port, the power supply has already been converted.
For other electronics, like laptops, cameras, tablets, or anything else that has to be plugged in to use or to charge, check the plug (or in the case of laptops the cube that’s normally part of the cord). If they’re marked for 110-220 volt power, all you need is an adapter. All of my electronics only require an adapter, but you’ll want to check to make sure.
If they aren’t marked for 110-220 volt power you’ll need a converter, which changes the voltage, in addition to the adapter, which allows you to plug a US plug into a European socket.
I like to travel with a universal adapter that has slide-out plugs like this one, which I can take regardless of where I’m traveling.
Cell phone and charger
Tablet, laptop, or e-reader and chargers
Portable charger or power bank (this one from Anker is my go-to)
Noise canceling earbuds or headphones (optional, but I love them on planes!)
Make sure to check your cell phone and plan before you leave to ensure they’ll work in Ireland. Some cell phone companies have an option to continue your regular US plan internationally with a daily charge, which is what I do.
If you’re prone to dropping your phone, like I am (it's the curse of having small hands), consider a wrist strap for your cell phone. I’ve used one for several years and it’s saved my phone on multiple occasions! It also makes it easy to deal with your phone when your hands are full without resorting to putting it in your pocket, which is a really bad idea in crowds or on public transportation.
Extras
Snacks, either from home or pick something up at the airport
Water bottle, either reusable or pick one up after airport security
A good book or downloaded podcasts, TV shows or movies for the flight
Travel pillow, eye mask and travel blanket
Slippers (great for taking your shoes off on the plane without the “eww” factor)
“Amenity kit” for the flight - makeup wipes, travel toothbrush and toothpaste, small hand lotion, and anything else that will make you more comfortable, especially on an overnight flight. I use one of these super fun canvas pouches for mine.
Passport holder - Great for also holding your boarding pass and baggage tags
Free Download: Your printable Ireland packing list
To make things easier, get your printable Ireland packing list. You can customize it as needed to make packing a breeze!
The bottom line
There you have it, your ultimate Ireland packing list. Planning a trip to Ireland is more than just booking flights and accommodations; it's about preparing for an adventure of a lifetime.
So pack wisely, travel safely, and may your time visiting Ireland be as enchanting as the landscapes and as warm as the people.
Don’t forget to get your checklist download!