Travel Guide To Ireland

Planning Your Trip:
Before heading to Ireland, it's important to plan your trip thoroughly. Consider factors like the duration of your stay, budget, places you want to visit, and the best time to go. Ireland has a temperate maritime climate, so expect mild, moist winters and cool summers. Popular times to visit are during the warmer months from May to September, when the weather is warmer and the days are longer.

Itinerary:
Plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your trip. Ireland offers diverse attractions, including historic sites, scenic landscapes, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities. Consider including both cities and rural areas in your itinerary to experience the best of Ireland's urban and natural beauty. Don’t just stick to the big cities—small towns often pack the biggest punch in terms of character and charm. Research attractions, opening hours, and any entry requirements in advance. Some sites may require advance booking or have limited hours of operation.

Getting There:
Most US travellers reach Ireland by flying into Dublin Airport, Shannon Airport, or Cork Airport. Direct flights are available from major US cities like New York, Boston, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Once you land, you can rent a car, take a train, or use public buses to explore the country. If you are part of a tour, then your Tour Leader will give you information regarding a planned itinerary - as part of your organised tour, transport will likely be covered.

Accommodation:
Ireland offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. You can choose from luxurious hotels, friendly bed and breakfasts, charming guesthouses, and even unique stays like castles and lighthouses. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons. Some hotels may have an attached spa offering treatments, a swimming pool and a gym. These hotels normally offer these facilities as part of the room price and therefore there will be no additional charge. It is important to check this in advance of your trip, so there are no surprises.

Travel Documents & Entry Requirements
US citizens don’t need a visa for tourist stays under 90 days, but you’ll need a valid passport with at least six months’ validity from your planned return date. Always check for any updated entry requirements before you travel. Starting in 2025, US travelers may need to complete an ETIAS travel authorization for entry into the EU (including Ireland), so keep an eye on official sources as your trip approaches.

Travel Insurance
It’s highly recommended to get travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, delays, and lost luggage. Healthcare in Ireland is high-quality, but non-residents may have to pay out of pocket without coverage. Some credit cards offer limited protection, but read the fine print before relying on that alone.

Ireland uses the Type G plug (the same as the UK) and operates on 230V/50Hz. US travellers will need a power adapter and possibly a voltage converter for certain appliances. Most phone and laptop chargers are dual voltage, but always double-check before plugging in.

If you’re planning to rent a car, remember that driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Roads can be narrow, especially in rural areas, and manual transmission cars are more common than automatics (book early if you need an automatic). A US driver’s license is usually accepted, but some rental agencies may ask for an International Driving Permit.

Choosing The Correct Luggage:

Choosing the right luggage for a 8-14 day overseas trip is crucial for a US traveller. Opt for a durable, lightweight suitcase with a hard shell for maximum protection. Look for features like 360-degree spinner wheels for easy maneuverability, a TSA-approved lock for security, and expandable compartments for extra packing space.

A medium to large suitcase (25-30 inches) is ideal for accommodating clothing, shoes, and essentials. Complement it with a carry-on bag for valuables and immediate necessities. Ensure it meets airline size regulations to avoid extra fees. (See the Packing section for more information on what to take with you on your trip).

Prioritise organised interiors with multiple pockets and compression straps for efficient packing. Packing cubes or compression bags are also an ideal solution to organisation within your luggage.

Weight:

A handheld luggage scales can easily be purchased from Amazon or other online stores which will ensure that your luggage does not exceed weight limits.

Remember if you are travelling in a small group, the vehicle that you will be travelling in will probably have limited capacity in terms of luggage. For these types of tours, please note that one large suitcase plus one carry-on is all that can ususally be accommodated comfortably.

Also, unless you have paid a porterage fee in advance (approx. €2/€3 per luggage item per hotel, one-way only) you will be expected to carry / manage your own luggage. Therefore it is critical that you are able to do so safely without hurting yourself.

Wheeled Totes

These are ideal pieces for people who are looking for a small, wheeled luggage to carry onto the plane. Most wheeled totes will fit under the seat, and are small enough to easily lift in and out of the overhead storage bins. Wheeled totes can hold a single change of clothes, books, magazines, and any other small items you would like to take with you on the plane.

18" - 20" Carry-On Luggage These are considered the International carry-on sizes, as they are allowed as a carry-on for most International flights. They are ideal for trips of 1-2 days, as they have packing space for a few outfits, a pair of shoes, and toiletries.

21" - 22" Carry-on Luggage These are the most popular sizes of carry-on luggage for U.S. domestic flights. Most U.S. airlines have carry on restrictions of 22" x 14" x 9", or 45 linear inches. These are the ideal sizes for business travelers or weekend trips, as most pieces of these sizes have either a foldout or removable garment sleeve that can hold one suit or dress and has sufficient packing space for a few outfits, a couple pairs of shoes, and toiletries. Most also have an expansion feature, which allows an additional 2 to 4 inches of packing capacity, but when expanded these sizes may exceed the carry on restrictions and would have to be checked.

23" - 24" Small Checked Luggage These sizes are popular for travelers looking for a smaller, lighter option of luggage to check. These pieces are too large to carry onto the plane, but are perfect for trips of 3 to 5 days. There is room for 2 to 3 outfits, a couple pair of shoes, and toiletry kits. The suiter (a fold out or removable garment sleeve) has space for up to 2 suits or dresses.

28" - 32" Suitcase These are very large suitcases meant for trips exceeding a week. They have a tremendous capacity for anything you would like to travel with. Due to their large size, when fully packed they can be difficult to maneuver and may exceed the 50 lbs. weight restrictions that most U.S. airlines enforce. Along with the weight restrictions, most U.S. airlines have a size restriction of 62" linear inches and these sizes may exceed that size, especially when expanded. But if you know you need the biggest piece of luggage available, these would be for you.

Using Intra-European Airlines:

Many travellers don’t realise that intra-Europe flights often have tighter weight and size restrictions. These can include airlines such as Ryanair, Aer Lingus, EasyJet etc., who normally have stricter limits . If you are travelling to other parts of Europe while on your trip to Ireland, particularly with one of the “no frills airlines”, please ensure you check these limits in advance.

Space for Souvenirs

Plan to leave a little room in your luggage for things you’ll want to bring back—like local crafts, wool products, whiskey, or small gifts. Overpacking at the start often leads to tough decisions (or extra baggage fees) on the way home. A collapsible duffel bag is a smart addition—easy to pack flat, but handy for extra items on the return trip.

Weather-Ready Additions

Ireland’s weather is famously unpredictable. Be sure to pack a compact umbrella, a lightweight rain jacket, and layers you can add or remove easily. These won’t take up much space and will save you from having to buy them at tourist prices once you’re there.

Day Bags Are Essential

Bring a small backpack or day bag for your daily outings. It’s perfect for holding snacks, a camera, rain gear, a guidebook, and anything you might buy during the day. Pick something comfortable to carry and ideally waterproof or water-resistant. Crossbody bags with secure zippers are also a good choice for cities and busy areas.

Stay Hydrated Smartly

Consider buying a reusable insulated canister or wide-mouth flask before your trip. These are inexpensive and can keep water cold all day—especially helpful during long sightseeing days. They're a smarter, more eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic bottles, and you can easily fill them with ice and tap water each morning.

Luggage Locks & Tags

Even if you're not checking a bag, it's a good idea to use luggage locks (TSA-approved if flying into the US) and durable luggage tags with your contact info. If you’re checking a bag, tie a ribbon or use a colourful tag to spot it easily on the carousel.

Laundry Options

To avoid overpacking, check if your accommodations offer laundry facilities or plan a mid-trip laundry stop. Packing a small zippered bag with a few detergent pods or a travel-sized laundry soap sheet can help if you want to hand-wash essentials.

Exploring the Cities:

Dublin, the capital city, is a must-visit destination with its rich history, vibrant culture, and lively nightlife. Explore iconic attractions like Trinity College, Dublin Castle, Guinness Storehouse, and Temple Bar. Don't forget to enjoy traditional Irish music in the city's pubs.

Exploring the Countryside:

Ireland's countryside is known for its stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, and ancient sites. Rent a car and embark on a road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way or the Causeway Coastal Route. Visit the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, Connemara National Park, and the Giant's Causeway for breathtaking views. If you are unsure about driving in Ireland it may be worthwhile contacting a local tour guide / tour operator to create a tour for you which includes transportation.

Experiencing Irish Culture:

Immerse yourself in Irish culture by attending traditional music sessions, dance performances, and festivals. Learn about Ireland's history and heritage by visiting museums, historic sites, and heritage centres. Don't forget to try traditional Irish dishes like Irish stew, seafood chowder, and soda bread.

Outdoor Activities:

Outdoor enthusiasts will love Ireland's abundance of outdoor activities. Go hiking in the Wicklow Mountains, cycling along the Great Western Greenway, kayaking on the Lakes of Killarney, or surfing along the Atlantic coast. Golfers can tee off at world-class golf courses like Lahinch and Ballybunion.

Language:

English is the primary language spoken in Ireland, but Irish (Gaeilge) is also recognized as an official language. Look out for the road signs along the way in both languages.

Weather:

Ireland has a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and cool summers. Be prepared for changeable weather, with rain showers possible at any time of the year. Pack waterproof clothing and layers to stay comfortable. Comfortable footwear is also a must.

Average temperatures in summer (June-August) range from 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C), while winter temperatures average between 35°F to 45°F (2°C to 7°C).

Transportation:

If you are not part of a tour, then renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Ireland, especially for rural areas and scenic drives. Major car rental companies operate at airports and in cities. Book your rental car in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Ensure you bring your driver’s license.

Ireland also has an extensive network of buses and trains, connecting major cities and towns. Consider using public transportation for city-to-city travel if you prefer not to drive.

In Dublin city, the LUAS is in operation to travel city-wide – this is a tram-like light rail service. If you're planning to use buses or trains regularly, consider a visitor travel pass for savings.

Navigation & Maps

Mobile data is usually reliable in towns and cities, but can be spotty in remote areas. Download offline maps (like Google Maps or Maps.me) before heading into the countryside. Road signs use kilometres, and speed limits are posted in km/h. Roundabouts are common—yield to traffic coming from the right.

Food & Drink

Ireland has stepped up its food scene in recent years. Beyond traditional fare, you’ll find excellent seafood, farm-to-table restaurants, and a growing café culture. Tap water is safe to drink everywhere. Pubs are a central part of Irish life—many serve food and some host live music nights. While tipping isn’t mandatory, rounding up or leaving 10% is appreciated for good service.

Public Toilets & Facilities

Public toilets aren’t always plentiful, especially in rural areas. However, most gas stations / fuel service stations do have public restroom facilities onsite. Larger towns and visitor centres usually have them, but it’s a good idea to take advantage of restrooms in cafés or attractions when available. Some may require a small coin payment, especially in older public buildings.

Respecting Local Communities

When exploring rural areas, remember you're often passing through someone’s home or farmland. Stay on marked trails, close gates behind you, and don’t trespass on private property. In smaller towns, a friendly greeting or nod goes a long way—locals generally appreciate respectful, considerate visitors.

Safety:

Ireland is generally a safe destination for travellers, but it's always wise to take common-sense precautions: - Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded tourist areas. Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid displaying large amounts of cash in public. Take care when driving on narrow, winding roads, especially in rural areas. Follow local safety guidelines and warnings, especially near cliffs or coastal areas. Body cross-over bags / fanny packs / money belts as per travelling anywhere in the world. Ireland is usually super safe, but obviously you should be cautious and aware of people around you as you would going to another country.

Emergency Information:

Familiarise yourself with emergency contact numbers, including the national emergency number (999 or 112) for police (in Ireland they are called An Garda), fire, and medical assistance.

Carry travel insurance that includes coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost or stolen belongings. A photocopy of your passport is also a good idea.