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    What to Pack for Ireland Trip, From American Who Lived in Ireland

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    • As an American who spent a year living in Ireland, I’ve created a great packing list for visitors.
    • To stay comfortable, I recommend packing a durable raincoat, warm layers, and good sneakers.
    • It’s also important to prioritize a functional bag that’s big enough to fit your essentials.

    Ireland, as magical and romantic as it is, can be a difficult destination to pack for. Unpredictable weather and activities that require all types of gear can make it easy to overpack when planning a trip to the Emerald Isle.

    Having lived in Ireland for a year, I would often get the “what should I pack?” text from friends and family who were coming to visit. Thankfully, after spending plenty of time there, I’ve created the perfect packing list.

    From a good raincoat to a bathing suit, here’s everything you need in your suitcase for a trip to Ireland.

    I recommend packing a durable raincoat.


    Hannah and a friend wearing raincoats while standing in the mountains.

    Rain is a frequent occurrence in Ireland.

    Hannah Kennedy

    I’ll start with the obvious: Ireland is a rainy country, and you’ll likely experience at least one gloomy day on your trip there.

    Plus, many of the best things to do in Ireland are outdoors, so having a raincoat on hand will save you from any potentially mishaps. I currently love my Cotopaxi Cielo rain jacket, but my family and I also wore jackets from The North Face, Columbia and Quechua.

    If you have space, a pair of waterproof pants is also nice to have for outdoor activities.

    No matter what, embrace the rain — it’s part of the true Irish experience.

    The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s good to wear layers.


    Hannah wears a sweater and holds a jacket in her arms.

    I always bring a sweater and my rain jacket with me to Ireland.

    Hannah Kennedy

    As I mentioned, the weather in Ireland can be unpredictable, so wearing layers is key to staying comfortable. I always pack items that easily mix and match with each other, so I have plenty of options.

    I recommend bringing a few go-to T-shirts and long sleeves, some lightweight sweaters, a fleece, and an outer layer. As for bottoms, I throw in jeans, leggings (or thermals if I’m visiting in winter), and casual pants.

    For summers in particular, be prepared for mild temperatures. My go-to Irish summer outfit is linen pants or jeans, a T-shirt, and a sweater or denim jacket.

    Comfortable walking shoes are a must.


    Hannah sits on a stoop covered in flowers, wearing a sweater, black pants, and sneakers.

    I always wear comfortable sneakers when traveling around Ireland.

    Hannah Kennedy

    No matter what your itinerary looks like, you’ll definitely need comfortable walking shoes in Ireland. Personally, I limit myself to 3 pairs of shoes for my trips.

    I always pack a pair of hiking shoes for trekking and walking, plus a casual sneaker for exploring cities and small towns. If I’m heading there in the winter, my third choice would be a pair of boots (most likely my Doc Martens), but in the summer, I’ll opt for my Teva or Birkenstock sandals.

    In addition to shoes, make sure to throw in some socks that will keep your feet dry and warm.

    Don’t forget an adapter for charging electronics.


    A multi-country power adaptor on a countertop.

    A good travel adaptor is a must.

    Hannah Kennedy

    Ireland’s outlets are designed for UK plug types, which are different from American, European, or Australian outlets. And if Ireland isn’t the only destination you’re visiting in Europe, having a multi-country plug adapter comes in handy.

    I bought a Tessan adapter from Amazon, and I’ve been able to use it in every country I’ve visited.

    It’s important to prioritize a functional bag.


    Hannah sits at a table while wearing an over-the-shoulder bag.

    I love using a crossbody bag.

    Hannah Kennedy

    Whether you’re hiking or pub hopping, you’ll want a practical bag to take with you in Ireland. When walking through cities and small towns, it’s nice to have all your essentials in one place without being weighed down by a large bag.

    That’s why I don’t go anywhere without my Cotopaxi Kapai hip pack, which is the perfect size for my wallet, sunglasses, portable charger, and phone.

    It may sound strange, but bring a bathing suit.


    Hannah smiles for a photo while wearing a wetsuit.

    Many people in Ireland enjoy swimming year-round.

    Hannah Kennedy

    Ireland, albeit not tropical and sunny, is an island, and you’d be remiss to not go for a swim while visiting. Many Irish people go swimming year-round, and I always brought my visitors to the beach for a local experience.

    From the famous Forty Foot in Dublin to Inch Beach in Kerry, there are plenty of great natural swimming spots around the country.

    Plus, a swimsuit takes up very little space in your bag, so in my opinion, there’s no excuse not to bring it.

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