Essential Items to Pack for Your Trip to Ireland

Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post. All recommendations are my own.

Now that you’ve finally booked that trip to Ireland you’ve been dreaming about for so long, you need to start planning what you’re going to take with you. I’ve created a list of essentials that may not feature on your usual vacation packing list. These are the items that I regularly use when I travel around Ireland, so I thought I would share them with you.

GADGETS

Noise Cancelling Headphones

If you need to take a long flight to get to Ireland, then noise cancelling headphones, or at the very least some earplugs, will make your trip much more comfortable. If you find it difficult to get the ear plugs to stay in your ears, you may prefer using the silicone earplugs. I never realised just how loud the plane engines and passengers were, and its effect on me until my husband lent me his noise cancelling headphones. Firstly, they make it so much easier to hear the movies. With the usual crappy headset that you’re given on the plane, I usually have to crank the sound all the way up to be able to hear what the characters are saying over the drone of the engines (and I have perfect hearing!). But with the noise cancelling headphones I can listen to the movie at a normal volume. It also significantly improves the movie experience because I can hear the conversations and the sound effects much more clearly.

Secondly, even when you’re not watching movies, these are perfect to wear throughout your flight with the noise cancelling function turned on to cancel out the surrounding sounds. When I take them off to go to the bathroom, I am always surprised at just how loud it is inside the plane and how much noise the headphones are blocking. I find that it helps me to feel much more relaxed on the plane and I’m even able to get some sleep (and I can’t usually sleep on planes), and I don’t feel as tired when I step off the plane.

Bose noise cancelling headphones are considered the best and their user reviews support this, however, they are very expensive. If you’re looking for something more affordable, then try the Sony noise cancelling headphones. They also get excellent reviews but are much cheaper. Both models feature active noise cancelling and the necessary airplane connections.

Guide Books in Ebook Format

Guide books really come in handy when planning your trip, but they can be rather bulky, heavy and annoying to travel with. However, both Rick Steves Ireland and Lonely Planet Ireland come in kindle format, making them really easy travelling companions that you can view on your kindle, phone or tablet. Not sure which guide book to buy? Read this handy guide to discover which is the best Irish guide book for you.

Ireland Maps

Renting a GPS from the rental car companies is expensive. Alternatively, you could use your phone to navigate by using Google’s free Offline Maps. Google Offline Maps allows you to access free maps for navigating that can be used offline i.e. you don’t need WiFi, data, or roaming to be able to use them. Follow this detailed guide on how to use Googles Offline Maps.

Using your phone as a GPS will drain your battery quickly, so make sure you travel with a portable charger so you don’t get stranded. For easy navigating I also recommend you purchase a car phone mount holder.

And finally, you could also purchase an Irish road map. At least it’s reliable and won’t run out of battery or malfunction like the electronic options!

Adaptor Plug

In Ireland the standard voltage is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. They use a three pronged plug like in the UK, but these are not the type of plugs that the rest of Europe use. So unless you’re from the UK, you’re going to need a good travel adaptor. Your better off purchasing a worldwide adaptor that can be used in Ireland as well other countries. At least this way you can potentially get some further use out of it on future vacations as it can be used in over 150 countries and also comes with two USB ports. If you’re taking a number of electronics with you, then I would recommend purchasing a couple of these adaptors.

Portable Battery Charger

Unfortunately most electronics like smart phones have a really short battery life and can become flat before the end of the day. That’s why this portable battery charger is an essential item when you’re travelling. This handy little portable battery charger can charge your phone, tablet, and any other USB chargeable device. If you’re planning on using your phone to navigate, then your going to need one of these as this can really drain your battery. Also, if you’re planning on driving around the Irish countryside, then for safety reasons you want to ensure that you have enough charge on your phone to make an emergency call.

Compact Camera

A small, light camera that enables you to take high quality photos and videos of your spectacular Irish vacation is a must. This Canon compact camera features 20.3 MP, 40x zoom with image stabilizer, wide angle lens and 4K video. It even includes built in Wifi that allows you to use your smartphone or tablet to remotely control the camera. Don’t forget to purchase a quality SD card that has the capacity for all your photos and videos as well as being fast enough capture full 4K video.

CLOTHES & FOOTWEAR

Pashmina/Shawl

I always travel with a pashmina because they are just so versatile. Consequently, I have heaps of them in a range of colours. I use them as a scarf, as a shoulder wrap to keep me warm when it’s cool or when I’m sitting up in bed, and as a blanket, especially when I’m travelling on the plane, bus or train or waiting in the departure lounge. I also use mine in a rather odd way – I use it to cover my head when I’m trying to sleep when I’m on the plane. Yes, it looks a tad weird, but I prefer it over a sleep mask. I think because it’s like I’m in my own little private room/space, and it doesn’t matter how weird my sleeping facial expressions become or how much I drool, because no one can see me. When I first did this, my husband pretended not to know me, but 15 hours into our flight when he was getting really tired, he succumbed to my strange ways and ended up with the other end of the pashmina over his head. Needless to say, he’s now a convert.

The Irish weather is so fickle, that I have found myself using mine throughout the year, regardless of the season. I prefer a wool and cashmere pashmina like this one, but for those you that don’t wear wool, then try this synthetic pashmina that has the soft feel of cashmere but is vegan friendly.

Thermals

If you are visiting Ireland during winter, then a warm wool long sleeve thermal, thermal leggings, and thick socks are essential. During summer you should stash some light thermal base layers into your bag just in case, especially if you are camping as it can still get cold at night. My favourite wool thermals and socks are from Ice Breaker. Full disclosure – they are a New Zealand brand so as a Kiwi myself I may be biased, but I think New Zealand merino wool is the best quality! They come in various weights for different levels of warmth, and unlike the polyester thermals, merino is both breathable and naturally anti-bacterial, it cleverly neutralises odour so you can get away with wearing them over many days without them getting stinky. The merino wool fibres are very fine, so they are softer and more flexible than standard wool, so don’t cause skin to itch. Ice Breaker also sell wool underwear, wool t-shirts (great when the weather is changeable), and outer layers like wool jumpers and hoodies.

If you cannot wear wool then try the Thermasilk range made of 100% silk. Although I haven’t tried them myself, they come highly recommended. They have a wide range of thermals including leggings, tops, socks and gloves. If you don’t wear animal products, then go for a good quality synthetic like this thermal set.

Rain Jacket

While we’re on the topic of rain, you will also need a good rain coat. Try and get one that you can easily pack up small for ease of travelling. I love the Helly Hansen range of raincoats because they are waterproof, windproof and breathable and can also be packed up small. These mens and womens rain jackets are perfect for summer, and can also be worn over warm layers in autumn and spring. However, if you’re planning on visiting Ireland in the winter months, then I recommend that you purchase the insulated men’s and women’s rain coats instead.

Warm Knitted Headband

This synthetic lined warm knitted headband is stylish and perfect for keeping your ears toasty warm and hair out of your face as you’re walking along those windy Cliffs of Moher.

Gloves

These thermal gloves with a durable outer layer that is wind and abrasion resistant will keep your hands toasty warm. The inner layer is lined with a super soft fabric that wicks moisture away from the skin. They can also be used on touchscreen.

Shoes

Due to the wet weather and the amount of sightseeing that you will likely be doing, I would suggest wearing some good quality goretex hiking shoes that are not only comfortable, but will also keep your feet warm and dry. Dress is generally casual in Ireland, so don’t worry about feeling under dressed! I really like Merrells black gore-tex hiking shoes because they don’t look so much like ‘hiking shoes’ and look good for everyday wear. If you want to bring other shoes for dressing up but have limited luggage space, then I suggest that you wear your hiking shoes whilst travelling and squeeze a pretty pair of little slip on’s into your luggage.

If you are planning on doing some walking in the beautiful Irish countryside, then hiking shoes are perfect for easy to moderate trails. However, if you are going to do some serious hiking on moderate to difficult trails, then I would recommend you wear waterproof hiking boots like Merrell’s Moab goretex hiking boots, as the tracks can be very boggy and wet in Ireland.

TRAVEL ACCESSORIES

Inflatable Neck Pillow with Soft Cover

I never used to travel with a neck pillow because I hated the bulkiness of them and always thought that the inflatable ones looked uncomfortable. However, my Mother in law insisted that I borrow hers on one of my trips abroad. It was then I realised just how much comfort the right kind of neck pillow can provide, and I even managed to get some sleep on my flight. I was won over by how comfortable it was and ended up purchasing myself this comfy neck pillow with washable outer cover.

Reusable Bag

Ireland passed a plastic bag tax in 2002. So unless you want to pay for a bag, then remember to bring one with you. I love this reusable shopping bag because it’s super lightweight, comes in a range of colours and cute prints, folds away into its own little compact bag, and can easily be thrown in the wash.

Compact Travel Umbrella

Ok, let’s admit it, Ireland is not known for its sunny weather, and the chance that you will be caught in the rain is quite high. A light, compact umbrella is essential for ease of travelling, but you also need it to be super sturdy as it gets rather windy too. This Kolumbo travel umbrella fits the bill.

Cross Body Bag

Dublin city is packed with tourists and unfortunately that attracts pick pockets and muggers. I’ve witnessed a woman have her phone snatched from her in the Temple Bar area in the middle of the day, so it can and does happen. Reduce the risk of losing your valuables whilst enjoying your sightseeing by using a cross body bag that allows you to place it more securely in front of you. Keep your valuables in the main body of the bag and only use the outer pockets for expendables such as tissues and lip gloss. Whilst in crowds, hook your hand over the strap and the zip entry.

Another advantage of this style of bag is that you never get asked to check them in at museums and galleries. However, those with backpacks typically get made to check them in which can sometimes cost money, and when busy, you can find yourself having to both line up to check it in and also to check it out again. When buying one, look for one that’s big enough to hold your wallet, phone, keys, tissues, and a small water bottle. As well as being functional, it can also be stylish! For example, I like this unisex canvas crossbody shoulder messenger and women’s leather crossbody bag.

Packing Cubes and Travel Laundry Bag

I don’t know about you, but if I don’t use these Packing Cubes, my suitcase becomes a jumbled mess. When I’m trying to find a particular item (which is always at the bottom of the bag), I’m like a dog digging for a bone and my bag ends up in a mess. These packing cubes are a great way to keep your suitcase organised and tidy, and they really do make it so much easier to find exactly what you need and fast.

I also use a travel laundry bag to keep my dirty clothes separate from the clean ones. I like this bag because its not bulky. Also, its not transparent, so its not embarrassing to carry to the launderette if you need to do some washing whilst on holiday.

Portable Pegless Travel Clothes Line

This portable, pegless clothes line will come in handy if you get caught out in the rain or if you need to do some washing during your trip. You can also adjust the length which makes it easier to set up. The fun part is figuring out where to attach it in your room!

Travel Sized Laundry Detergent

These travel laundry detergent packs make it easy to do a load of washing during your holiday and don’t take up much room in your bag. They work in hot or cold water.

Reusable Drink Bottle

Make sure you pack a water bottle to stay hydrated. I love this stainless steel drink bottle as I am trying to cut down on my use of plastics. This drink bottle is leak proof and insulated so keeps hot water hot and cold water cold. The water in Ireland is safe to drink, so don’t waste your money on bottled water.

Jewelry Travel Bag

Although I do not recommend taking any expensive jewelry with you on your trip (as most travel insurers don’t pay much for jewelry replacement), I do love to travel with my cheaper, fashion jewelry. This small jewelry travel bag has lots of small zippered compartments to keep your jewelry organised and it even has a handy coat hook to hang it from.

Mini Key Chain Flashlight

If you are visiting in the winter months (when the light hours are short) or you are planning on staying in a hostel (for reading without disturbing others), then a little key chain flashlight can come in handy. I love this mini key chain flashlight so much that I also have one attached to my keys for everyday use. Its tough aluminium body and long life LED makes it perfect for travelling.

Cable Luggage Padlock

This padlock will not only keep your luggage secure, but is also handy if you’re planning on staying in a hostel (you usually need to provide your own padlock for the lockers that store your personal belongings). What I like about this cable luggage padlock is that it’s nice and light and the combination means you don’t have to scramble around looking for the key or risk losing it.

Ireland Travel Journal

For those that enjoy journaling their travels, this Ireland Travel Journal can help you plan, live out, and record every stage of your journey to Ireland. The first part of the journal includes a pages for you to write about what inspired you to make the trip, about the who, where, what, when, how of the journey and to organise your travel research. Plus, you will find sections for drafting an itinerary and keeping a journey to-do checklist. The second part of the journal contains sections to describe getting there and arriving. The third part of the journal has a section for tracking the stuff you buy and for your daily adventures.

TOILETRIES

Pocket Tissues

Even when I’m not travelling, I never leave home without these pocket tissues. Stash these tissue packs in the pockets of your bags and coats. The Irish wind and changeable weather can give you a runny nose. They also save you in those moments when you get caught in the loo with no toilet paper!

Lip Balm

Since moving to Ireland I suffer from terribly chapped lips due to the climate. Protect your lips from the harsh Irish weather by using Burts Bees lip balm. It’s my favourite lip balm because the beeswax provides long lasting coverage and it comes in the form of a chapstick. This multipack allows you to assign one to each family member or to stash them away in your bags and coat pockets.

Face Wipes

I always travel with a pack of wipes. Not only do they remove the daily grime and makeup from my face, but I also use them to clean my hands and nails when I don’t have access to good facilities to wash my hands (one of the challenges when travelling). They are also a great way to ‘freshen up’ when you doing long haul travel and don’t have access to a shower. I love using RAWGANIC wipes as they are 99% natural and 100% biodegradable. Check out my post where I Review the Best Biodegradable Eco Friendly Face Wipes on the Market.

Travel Containers

These GoToobs might be on the slightly pricier side, but they are definitely worth it as you will get years of use out of them. GoToobs meet airline carry on regulations for liquids and are food-safe (FDA) and 100% BPA and PC-free. The no-drip valve stops them from getting messy and the squeezy tube design makes it easy to get the product out.

The makers of GoToob also make really clever little storage containers called GoTubbs which can be opened one-handed. GoTubbs are great for storing jewellery, pills, and thick ointment. However, for liquids use the GoToobs as these containers aren’t very leak proof.

Tips

Check out my other travel tip posts:

• If you are aiming to travel light, especially if you are travelling with hand luggage only or are backpacking, then check out my post on How to Pack an Extra Light Toiletry Bag.
• If you are flying on a long haul flight, then read my post about What I Pack in My Hand Luggage for a Comfortable Long Haul Flight.
• If you are travelling to Ireland during the winter, then read my post on How to Stay Warm on a Winter Vacation.
• Whether you are trying to sleep on the plane, bus, train or an uncomfortable hotel room, read my Secrets to Sleeping Well Whilst Travelling.
• Here are my top tips for How to Deal with Laundry While on Holiday.
• If you have IBS, then read about My Tips for Travelling with IBS.