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Winter Packing List for Ireland: It does rain a lot in Ireland – how else would it be so green and lovely? That said, the rain is not the kind to ruin a good vacation, it’s just part of the package. While it’s perceived as a cold place, the winters are actually quite pleasant as long as you keep warm by dressing wisely.
So how do you do that? It can be difficult to know what to wear in Ireland due to the rather unpredictable weather, but with this guide you’ll know just what to pack for your upcoming winter vacation in Ireland. It’s aimed at a 1 – 2 week trip where you’ll do washing while away. If you don’t want to do laundry while on holiday and have the space in your luggage, you can increase the amounts recommended in the packing list.
What to wear in Ireland in Winter
How to dress for winter in Ireland
- 1-2x warm boots: Depending on how much room you have in your suitcase, take 1-2 pairs of boots ideal for colder temperatures. To save space and luggage weight wear one of these pairs on flights.
- 1 pair of sneakers: If you have some activities planned where boots just won’t do, bring a pair of sneakers. If not, I suggest traveling with just the two pairs of boots, or 1 pair of boots and 1 pair of sneakers.
- 4-5 x socks – Hand wash these in a sink
- 6-10 pairs of underwear
- 3-5 bras
- 1-2 x pairs of gloves: Ireland gets quite cold in winter, so don’t let the heat escape through your fingers.
- 1-3 x Woolen hat / beanie
- Pullover or Cardigan x 2
- 1-2 x jacket/ coats: Wear one of these on the flights if you’re tight on space / luggage weight. If you have the space pack two, although one should work just fine. Make sure they’re insulated as it will get quite cold in winter
- Tops x 4-7: Pack longer sleeves to keep you warm. You can easily get by with only four tops that you can hand wash if you want to travel light.
- Sleepwear
- Pants x 2-5: Long pants will keep you warm.
- Leggings x 1-2: Or if you’re susceptible to the cold consider, packing long johns for an additional layer under your pants.
- 1-2x Scarf
What to pack for Ireland in Winter
Medical
- Pain killers – Handy for a stomach ache or headache.
- Anti-acid medicine
- First aid kit
- Prescribed medication – Be sure to carry the prescription in case you need a refill or are asked upon at the airport.
Makeup and Toiletries
- Toothbrush & toothpaste (travel-sized tube)
- Regular makeup kit and travel sized makeup bag
- Wipes
- Tissues (travel sized)
- Deodorant
- Solid shampoo or travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
Technology
- Phone and charger
- Digital camera and lens – I use the Sony a6500 and 19mm f2.8 lens
- 2 or 3 8GB Memory cards– This will help in case one memory card fails or gets lost
- International adapter – like this one
- Batteries and camera charger
- Portable battery (see this one) to charge a phone or the camera
Luggage
- Suitcase: It is convenient because it’s easy to find things, something like this would do well if you’re not going to suitcase route.
- Backpack: Equally suitable for traveling in Ireland, especially if you are not carrying a lot of things. This Osprey 55 litre is a great choice that is very durable.
- Belt/ Neck Wallet: It safely stores your personal documents such as your passport, credit card, or ID card as well as cash.
Everything Else
- Two bank cards – Carry a MasterCard and Visa since not all Irish banks will accept your regular card
- Photocopies- To avoid being stranded without a passport, if the original gets stolen, have several photocopies made. Leave one copy with someone back home
- Luggage lock- It ensures your luggage is safe at all times.
When to visit Ireland: Weather and seasons
Spring in Ireland (March, April and May): After a cold winter, the weather in Ireland starts to warm up with temperatures rising to 15 degrees. As expected, room rates will be higher so why not hit the road for a scenic Ring of Kerry tour? On your way, you’ll get to see the breathtaking scenery of the Irish countryside, historic attractions and charming villages. With less rain in Dublin, it’s a great time to wander the streets and check out the blooms. Temperatures around 4-15C / 39-59F.
Summer in Ireland (June, July and August): Summer really changes up the mood in Ireland. Daily temperatures range at 11-28C / 50’s-70’s F. During the warmest months of July-August, there are about 18 hours of daylight with the sun setting around 10pm. Summer is also the busiest season for tourists with the high season raising hotel prices; but on the plus side, you’ll be able to enjoy all the best beaches in Ireland due to the warmer temperatures. Irish summers sometimes experience storms, but the silver lining to this is that it brings rainbows!
Fall in Ireland (September, October and November): Fall is a rather lovely time to visit Ireland when the Emerald Isle turns bronze as the leaves change color. The countryside is pretty and the weather is still quite mild with highs of about 15 degrees Celsius in September. The tourists have all but left as well, so this means that you can enjoy cheaper room rates. Visit in September and October to attend the Dublin Festival Season with 10 events in 61 days. Also be sure to check out the Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival held in County Clare. Temperatures around 5-17C / 41-62F.
Winter in Ireland (December, January and February): Brace yourself because winter in Ireland is freezing cold – and it’s not just the air, the wind too. This is not the time of the year to wander aimlessly in the streets unless you are wearing thermals. But this shouldn’t put you off visiting as room rates are at their most affordable with tourists having disappeared, and it would be a perfect time to find an affordable castle to stay at in Ireland. Visitors in Ireland during winter can explore the myriad of Christmas markets and enjoy a glass of mulled wine. Alternatively, strap on some ice skates and head for the rink and or just wait around for St. Paddy’s Day. Temperatures are around 3-8C / high 30s-high 40s F.
You’ve booked your dream vacation and made your ultimate bucket list of fun things to do in Ireland. Now all that is left to do is come prepared with all the right clothing and accessories. With this packing list you are guaranteed to stay warm and comfy as you enjoy your Irish adventure of a lifetime!