Each of us has different packing priorities, ranging from a laptop, satellite phone, and mp3 player to a woolen hat and some battered binoculars. But there are a few things that should be at the top of the list for most travelers, although not all of them may apply to you. While some may be obvious choices, others are not. Pack up with these helpful tips!
Irish plug adapter
Unless you are only traveling from the UK, you will most likely find that any electrical product you bring to Ireland will not work, simply because the plugs do not fit. Adapters are available for a relatively low price, so bring your own. Only the variety with the three massive teeth will fit. And note that Irish electricity runs on 230 volts – Instantly fry all appliances designed for 110 volts without using a transformer. We are talking about life-threatening electricity here, an adapter at Mr Price sells for € 1.49, so you decide what your life is worth. If you have a lot of devices that can be charged via USB, it might be an alternative idea to bring the correct cables and then buy a local USB plug charger or a nifty USB car charger.
Rain proof clothing
Irish weather almost always comes with a guarantee of rain. So get ready and bring some clothes to fight the elements. A relatively light jacket that you can wear over other clothing would be ideal, paired with a hat or cap. Umbrellas are cumbersome and tend to die suddenly from the wind. Having said that … your helmet shouldn’t be too loose either,
Camera
Although most bookstores will provide a wide variety of excellent picture books about Ireland, taking your own pictures is a must. A small and lightweight camera with optical zoom is ideal for most tourists. Remember to bring enough storage media or movies, both can be relatively expensive in Ireland (although you will often find good prices for SD cards in Argos stores). Also, try to use only rechargeable batteries, it will help the environment and save at the same time. Obviously you will need an adapter (see above) for your charger.
Travel health insurance
Comprehensive travel health insurance is recommended, if only to get the best possible care in the shortest amount of time. The Irish healthcare system can be slow and additional costs may be incurred if you are short on time. If your insurance also covers a possible repatriation flight, this is ideal. Visitors to Ireland from the European Union and Switzerland must bring their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in any case.
Euros and / or pounds
It is a very good idea to have some Irish or British cash ready when you arrive, if only to pay for the airport bus or taxi or buy a coffee. Note that the Euro is used in the Republic, the Pound in Northern Ireland. Both currencies can be accepted occasionally, foreign currencies like the US dollar certainly won’t be.
Sunscreen and sunglasses
This may be in contrast to waterproof clothing, but the Irish climate caters for all tastes. And a decent sunscreen is hard to find and quite expensive. Remember especially to put on sunscreen when there is a breeze near the sea or in the mountains, here you can easily burn yourself. Sunglasses are a must when driving – the sun can be low for centuries.
Good and comfortable walking shoes
If you are visiting Ireland and want to see attractions up close, you will have to walk, sometimes considerable distances. Grab your most comfortable walking shoes and go outside. Many rural attractions will involve hiking over natural, sometimes rugged terrain. Therefore, a sole with a good grip is essential.
A warm sweater
Even on a hot summer day, nights can be chilly, bring a sweater and be prepared. This can also be useful in some accommodations: many B & Bs have a heating system that only accepts two settings which should be called ‘Arctic’ and ‘Dante’s Inferno’ respectively.
A good travel guide
Even if you are joining an organized tour, a good guide to Ireland will fill in a few blanks. Or lead you to an interesting detour if you are following a recommended route. A guide can also be duplicated as a souvenir.
Condoms
If you are planning to be sexually active in Ireland (and this will not involve your regular partner), take precautions and bring condoms. Although contraceptives are no longer illegal in Ireland, they can occasionally be difficult to find and are expensive. Sexually transmitted diseases are widespread in Ireland, so “the pill” or a vasectomy is not enough protection.
