Photo: Contiki
Headed to Ireland are ye? Before you go frolicking through lush green fields and getting to know locals’ fave pubs, make sure you pack the right outfit for any occasion by using this guide! Irish weather is no joke, and can turn on a dime.
Staples
Certain items are great to have for any and all occasions in Ireland, preparing you for the rugged Cliffs of Moher just as much as the lyrical streets of Galway.
- Thermals – Lightweight, warm, insulating layers are an absolute must have, with merino taking the cake. You can either pack these in your carry on or wear them underneath everything else if you’re worried about Ryanair having a go at you.
- Waterproof Jacket – A traveller’s best friend really. Dress it up, dress it down, wear it to bed even. And hey, when you drop money like that on a brand new Arcteryx, flaunt it.
- Good shoes – Those old Reeboks won’t cut it. Try some Salomons or hiking boots for maximum comfort and arch support, which will allow for maximum traction out on those hiking trails. Not to mention impeccable style.
- Backpack – A good daypack will carry all your snacks and supplies when you’re out being whimsical in the Irish wilderness.
Image source:Sylvia Szekely / unsplash
Spring
- Saint Patrick’s Day costume – March marks the annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration – an occasion to go all out for if you’re in Ireland! There’s never been a better time to invest in a bright green suit, just don’t spill Guiness on it. Don’t want to go solo? Do St Patricks day with Contiki!
- Binoculars – Spring also coincides with the annual migration and return of the rare and fantastical puffins! Coastal cliffs are your best bet for spotting these beauties, but keep a safe distance from cliff edges and use those binoculars to get a close up view.
Summer
- Shorts – Like trousers, but missing the lower half (I know, wild!). Even the famously drizzly Ireland will have enough sunshine to justify a pair of your finest shorts. If you’re on the fence and want to be extra cool, get a pair of pants that zip off into shorts. You’ll catch an eye or two, that’s for sure.
- T-shirts – The days of wearing a single layer of clothing are back! Put your best prints on display, but PSA – wear sunscreen.
- Dancing shoes – Get ready, it’s festival season! The sun is shining, so pay up and head to your nearest festival for nothing but good vibes. Whether it’s traditional Irish music or the heaviest drum and bass you could ever hope to experience, you’re in for a good time.
Image source:Contiki
Autumn
- Sweaters – Autumn is when the leaves turn to brown, the wind picks up, and the days get shorter. It’s perfect for introducing some layers into your wardrobe, and you know nothing beats a nice sweater. You can channel your inner sailor with a white turtleneck, an intrepid explorer in a slightly overpriced quarter-zip, or anything in between!
- Goblet – A reusable goblet, why?! I have two words for you. Mulled. Wine.
- Wellies – If you’re going to be frequenting rural villages on your little Irish sojourn, you’ll want to look the part. And nothing speaks rural whimsy like a baker boy cap and a pair of wellies.
Winter
- Waterproof pants – In addition to that staple waterproof jacket you should have regardless of season, you may want to consider waterproof pants in the winter. Of course it all depends on how outdoorsy you feel, as this might be overkill for travelling from your hostel to the Guinness Storehouse and back.
- Big jacket – It’s cold. Like, really cold. You may want to consider upgrading the waterproof jacket to a thick down jacket to keep you functional during those short days and long long nights.
- Gloves – A must-have during the chilly season. Bonus points if you get a pair of touchscreen compatible ones so you can take photos without feeling frosty..
- Scarf – Function and style blend seamlessly in this winter accessory. Who hasn’t fallen in love with a stranger wearing a red scarf, only to turn back and realise that they’re all wearing red scarves and you just lost the one. Cue James Blunt.
- Beanie – Just as, if not more important than gloves. You might get hat hair, but keeping that brain warm is vital if you’re going to make it off that hiking trail with friendships intact.
Image source:Ibrahim Guetar / unsplash
Conclusion
Alright, intrepid traveller, that’s about it! With this guide you will be well prepared for whatever Ireland throws at you, whether it be sunshine and rainbows (and gold?) or thunder and lightning. If you’re not sure where in Ireland you want to go, or what you’d like to see, you really don’t need to think about it, because Contiki will take you! See the best of Ireland in a week, before heading back to work and telling everyone how you kissed the Blarney Stone and now have the gift of the gab.
