From its striking coastline to the lure of its lush landscapes, famous castles, iconic golf courses, world-class museums, and more, Ireland is a destination that draws millions of tourists year-round. Whether you’re headed to the Emerald Isle to bask in its natural beauty or just to enjoy an authentic pint of Guinness, there are ample activities to delight every kind of traveler, rain or shine. Most likely, you should expect some rain.

“In Ireland, you can experience all four seasons in a single day, so it is always advisable to pack a sweater and a rain jacket with you when visiting,” says Michael Leahy, head of concierge at Ashford Castle, a historic 5-star hotel in County Mayo (which used to be home to the Guinness family). A hooded rain jacket is perhaps the single most essential item you can bring, agrees Isabelle Hoyne, an Irish luxury travel blogger and founder of Cultured Voyages. “I wouldn’t bother with an umbrella — Ireland can be quite windy so a hooded jacket is more suitable,” she explains.

From wind- and waterproof layers to warm sweaters, packable jackets, day bags, and more, we’ve researched and curated a list of the essential items you’ll need to have a fabulous trip to Ireland at any time of year.

Best Clothing

Ireland is famous for its rapidly shifting weather, so it pays to be prepared with layers — particularly waterproof and breathable ones.

“While temperatures don’t fluctuate hugely in Ireland, it will always be in some way humid and the weather can change on a dime,” explains Hoyne. “Once you’ve got something that is both wind- and waterproof you’re a long way toward being prepared!”

While you can experience sunny skies and a brief drizzle in practically the same breath, Ireland’s temperature is far from drastic. It rarely dips below freezing in the winter months, and tends to max out at around 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer. Lightweight layers, like a cozy sweater and a packable jacket, are must-haves no matter the time of year, whether you’re sightseeing or hitting the links on an iconic golf course. Rain jackets are also a non-negotiable, as intermittent showers tend to occur in all seasons.

Generally speaking, athleisure is great for most hikes or other outdoor excursions, while casual clothing is suitable for most city explorations — think jeans, T-shirts, and boots or sneakers. Evenings call for a bit of spiffing up, so focus on packing versatile pieces that can be easily dressed up with a skirt or a pair of nice trousers, or worn with jeans for a laidback daytime look.

“Athleisure is fine for exploring during the day, but people like to dress up at night. Smart casual is usually fine, but I would completely draw the line at turning up to a restaurant in the evening in leggings, sweatpants, or hiking boots,” says Hoyne. Instead, look to pieces that can be worn day-to-night, like our go-to pair of pants from Everlane.

Best Daywear

Whether you’re heading on a tour of the iconic Jameson Distillery or exploring the charming suburb of Stoneybatter, these easy, breezy pants from Everlane are a must. Not only are they exceptionally comfortable with an easy pull-on elastic waistband, but they look polished thanks to the darling pintuck detailing and flattering ankle-length fit.

The double-knit fabric is breathable yet almost sweatpant-like in terms of weight and softness, so you’ll stay warm even on cooler days and won’t overheat if the temperature climbs. Deep side pockets and the wrinkle-resistant fabric are the cherry on top.

Price at time of publish: $98

Super soft and sweat-wicking, this cozy T-shirt from Athleta is a traveler’s BFF. Throw it on to hike the Great Sugar Loaf (where, on a clear day, you can glimpse Wales from the panoramic summit) or simply to sample some local snacks at St. George’s Market in Belfast.

This is far from your run-of-the-mill tee: it’s breezy and breathable, dries quickly, and even boasts odor-eliminating antimicrobial properties to keep you smelling fresh all day long, making it a perfect companion for Ireland’s humidity. While the odor-resistant technology means you can go longer in between washes, you’ll be glad to know that it’s safe to toss this top in the wash for quick and easy cleaning. Plus, it boasts a UPF rating of 25+ for sun protection.

Price at time of publish: $49

No matter what time of year you’re heading to Ireland, know that it will rain. Whether it’s a passing summer storm or a drawn-out drizzle in the wet season (which runs November through February), you’ll be glad to have come prepared with a top-notch raincoat so that the weather can’t impede on any of your planned outdoor activities.

Outdoor Research earned our vote as the best raincoat for both men and women in our extensive testing, thanks to its lightweight construction and impeccable waterproof coating. The material ensures water slides right off, meaning you’ll stay dry even in a deluge (although the rain in Ireland tends to be scattered showers, rather than full-on storms). In addition to being easily packable, the material is super stretchy, so you’ll maintain your full range of motion for hikes and other activities.

Price at time of publish: $300

Sustainability and style are woven together in this easy, relaxed layer from Kotn, a certified B Corporation. Consider it your new elevated essential for pairing with everything from wide-legged trousers to lived-in jeans, leggings, and more. Crafted from super soft and sustainably sourced Egyptian cotton, it’s cozy enough to wear on its own but also looks great on top of a turtleneck or fitted base layer.

A good, light-to-mid-weight sweater that provides warmth without adding bulk to your suitcase is a crucial item year-round in Ireland, as the temperature can fluctuate widely throughout the course of a single day. We love that this timeless piece — which features elegant ribbed detailing on the hem, collar, and cuffs — looks just as good on as it does slung around your shoulders, waist, or across your torso if the weather heats up. Best of all, it comes in five beautiful shades, including classic black, white, and an autumnal golden oak.

Price at time of publish: $138

Few things are more practical for a trip to the Emerald Isle — or just about anywhere, for that matter — than a lightweight and packable down jacket. They take up minimal space, are versatile enough to wear with most outfits, and keep you warm without making you feel sweaty or sticky.

This model from Quince comes at a much more attractive price point than similar pieces from competing brands, and packs up into a small pocket that you can easily tuck into your day bag when the sun comes out. Best of all, it’s water-repellent and wind-resistant, so you can feel confident no matter the weather as you tackle longer treks like Croaghaun Cliffs in County Mayo (which is best seen at sunrise or sunset for the most epic views).

Price at time of publish: $80

Best Nightwear

If you’ll be indulging in a few nights at one of Ireland’s top resorts, you might as well dress for the occasion. After all, it’s not every day that you can sleep in an 800-year-old castle, like the luxurious Ashford Castle. For evenings spent dining in the stately George V Dining Room — named after the Prince of Wales, who visited the property in 1905 — a more formal dress code is required.

A slinky, satin dress like this strappy number from Staud is a one-stop shop for an elegant and pulled-together look that doesn’t require much effort. Adjustable straps and a hidden zipper make this easy to get on and off, and we love that you can even dress it down for daytime wear by layering a chunky sweater on top, or a thin turtleneck beneath it.

Price at time of publish: $375

For nights on the town in Dublin, opt for this trendy yet timeless top from Reformation. The sleeveless style is versatile enough to dress up or down, easily elevating a pair of jeans for a night at the pub, or creating a more formal silhouette for dinner at one of Ireland’s 17 Michelin-starred restaurants. It’s fitted throughout and crafted from deadstock fabric, so you can feel good about wearing a more sustainably-made piece. While we love the black velvet style, it’s available in seven other shades, ranging from cozy and colorful knits to two sleek, sparkly options that are perfect for a party.

Price at time of publish: $98

Best Shoes

There’s no shortage of outdoor activities to keep you busy during a trip to Ireland, whether you’re taking in the views from the magnificent Cliffs of Moher (an easy day trip from Dublin), wandering through a mossy forest, or summiting Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest peak. Coming prepared with sturdy and water-resistant footwear is a must, and Hoyne suggests packing hiking shoes for those looking to get out into nature. While rain boots wouldn’t hurt, they unfortunately tend to take up quite a bit of space in a suitcase. (Luckily, some of the most luxurious resorts, like Ashford Castle, provide rain gear free of charge for their guests to explore their expansive grounds).

For sightseeing in cities — think touring the historic Titanic Belfast, or the Guinness Storefront in Dublin — a versatile pair of flat or low-heeled boots or sneakers will do the trick. In the evenings, you’ll want to reach for slightly more polished shoes, like an easily packable pair of heels that you can wear out to a nice dinner.

Say hello to your new favorite travel companion. Vivaia’s stylish and soft ankle boots are not only fashionable and comfortable enough to carry you from day to night, but they’re also highly water-repellent. These boots were practically made for a trip to Ireland, where you’ll likely get caught in the rain on more than one occasion.

Rather than packing a separate pair of rain boots, save some space by slipping these sophisticated and supportive shoes into your luggage (or even wear them on the plane — they’re breathable and flexible enough). Your feet won’t tire of their cloudlike comfort, thanks to the updated arch support present in the Riley Pro model. These feature extra cushion and pressure relief on the insoles, as well as an anti-slip rubber outsole that provides great traction for walking around. All five autumnal shades are easy to dress up for evenings out, or to pair with casual daytime looks; they’re available from sizes 5 to 11, including half sizes.

Price at time of publish: $149

We love these lightweight sneakers from Danner, as they’re stylish enough for wearing around town during the day, yet functional enough to wear hiking on a variety of terrains — and crucially, won’t weigh down your luggage.

They easily earned our pick for the best hiking shoes for travel, thanks to their portable construction. We were impressed with the shock-absorbent midsoles topped with extra cushioning, the breathable mesh liners, and the extra grippy outsoles that provided excellent traction on wet and dry terrain. The same model is also available for men.

Price at time of publish: $160

It’s hard to beat the allure of Vivaia’s mesh slingback sandals: beyond being perfectly on-trend, they’re also incredibly easy to pack, breathable, and feature excellent cushioning. The soft and stretchy mesh upper allows for plenty of airflow, so your feet will feel (and smell) fresh all night long.

The insole itself is cushioned and features a moisture-wicking lining that helps to rapidly absorb and disperse sweat. An adjustable buckle on the ankle strap helps to secure your perfect fit, ensuring your feet won’t slide around when you’re out on a pub crawl — even after a few pints. The anti-slip rubber outsole provides top-notch traction, while the teardrop-shaped heel offers stability and a little lift. While we recommend neutral tones for optimal versatility while traveling, these come in seven fun shades, including a vibrant, summery orange.

Price at time of publish: $97

Best Bags

Unless your trip is focused entirely on hiking, cycling, or other outdoor adventure activities, you’ll have some flexibility to choose whatever bag is best for you, as you’ll likely be staying in hotels or bed and breakfasts where you can stash your suitcase while you set out to explore. A checked bag or carry-on with spinner wheels will come in handy for easy maneuvering through the airport, and will offer plenty of space for your essential belongings — picking between them is mainly a matter of how long you’ll be away for and if you don’t mind checking a bag. A duffel may offer a bit more flexibility for those who will be on the move more frequently, as there’s no need to roll it around and it still boasts an impressive capacity.

Crafted from ultra-durable TuffSkin nylon, this bag from trusted cooler brand Yeti was designed to stand the test of time. The material is stain- and tear-resistant, so you can feel confident that it will hold up on rugged outdoor adventures. Externally, the bag’s base features a reinforced shell for additional protection, while internal dividers and several small pockets offer ample organizational opportunities to separate your clothes, shoes, laundry, and gear. There are even two top exterior pockets, although these are only large enough to hold your most compact essentials. This trusty duffel, which earned our top pick out of the 25 duffel bags we tested, can be carried via handles on either end, a top handle, or a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap.

Price at time of publish: $250

Away’s carry-on has been my constant companion through over a dozen countries this past year, and it still looks as good as when I first bought it. The wheels continue to roll smoothly, there aren’t any dents — despite some rather aggressive trips through baggage claim when I’ve had to gate-check my bag — and it comfortably fits everything I need for two, sometimes even three weeks (yes, weeks!) of traveling at a time, thanks to the compression provided by three interior mesh pockets. Note that the brand recommends bringing this along for shorter, three-to-five-day trips, but I’ve found it’s perfectly suitable for longer getaways if you pack light.

It complies with most airline requirements (but always be sure to check your specific carrier), and is a breeze to pop into an overhead bin even when fully packed, thanks to its lightweight shell and easy-grip handles on the top and side.

Price at time of publish: $275

Less expensive than both the duffel and the carry-on, Samsonite’s expandable checked suitcase is an excellent value purchase that’s designed to stand the test of time (and rough baggage handlers). Out of 65 checked suitcases we tested, it easily earned the highest score thanks to its generous capacity, lightweight construction, exceptional durability, and attractive price. Plus, it boasts an expandable storage system and interior compression straps, helping to maximize packing space so you can fit an extra sweater or pair of pants in there, too.

Price at time of publish: $163

Best Gear/Accessories

Whenever you set out on an adventure abroad, it’s crucial to pack any medications you may need, as well as specialty toiletries you may not be able to find in a new country (like hair products or specific moisturizers tailored to your skincare routine). Packing an adapter is also essential, as it will ensure your devices stay powered up throughout your trip (plus, having to spring for one at the airport costs a fortune).

Other gear we’d suggest bringing includes a camera, a day bag, a reusable water bottle, a trusty pair of sunglasses, and more. As always, a zippered crossbody bag — like this durable, spacious pick from Baggu — provides a handy way to keep your belongings secure and free up your hands while traveling through crowded cities. Leahy notes that while theft isn’t common in the countryside, it’s always a good idea to be mindful of your personal belongings when in the city.

Hoyne also suggests remaining vigilant in more dense or touristy areas, explaining that it’s a “rare enough occurrence, but the most likely misfortune that may befall you in Dublin is having your phone snatched from your hand by a teenager on a bike,” she warns, noting you should “pay a little extra attention if you have it out to take pictures or use Google Maps to navigate.”

While crossbody bags are great for navigating cities, a packable backpack will be more useful for those planning to spend ample time enjoying Ireland’s lush countryside. Many of Ireland’s best hikes are 3 to 4 hours long, so you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared with water, sunscreen, snacks, and the like.

This 20-liter option from Bellroy is our go-to day bag, thanks to its recycled construction, ample organizational features, and compact design. The bag is made of recycled plastic bottles, and rolls up for easy portability when not in use, so you won’t have to sacrifice precious suitcase space to bring it (alternatively, you could use it as your personal item on the flight over). It’s so compact that you’ll be shocked to see how much you can fit inside: a rain jacket, a change of clothes, extra chargers, a water bottle, and more.

Price at time of publish: $99

We tested a range of travel adapters and converters, and the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter came out as the clear winner thanks to its compact design, ability to charge multiple devices at once, and its variety of prongs that will easily carry you to over 150 countries.

Rest assured all of your devices will be juiced up and ready to go, thanks to four USB-A ports, one USB-C port, and an AC socket that allow you to charge up to six devices simultaneously, including iPhones, Androids, laptops, cameras, power banks, and more. Note that it is not a voltage converter, so it shouldn’t be used with high voltage appliances like hair dryers.

Price at time of publish: $25

Extremely light yet made from supremely durable TPU, this collapsible water bottle from HydraPak earned top marks during our testing. Despite weighing just 3.7 ounces, this bottle stands up stiffly when you’re filling it, and boasts a 34-ounce capacity that will ensure you stay hydrated throughout a morning hike or an afternoon of sightseeing. The best part is how it rolls up into next to nothing when empty, helping to free up more space in your bag. We love that it features a wide, 2.5-inch mouth for easy sipping on the go, and that it’s dishwasher safe.

Price at time of publish: $26

The beauty of the Emerald Isle is endlessly tempting to capture, and a pocket-sized point-and-shoot camera like the Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS70S is both a user-friendly and comparatively budget-friendly way to do so.

Despite its compact size, this camera packs in quite a few notable features that take it beyond smartphone photography, including capturing both JPEG and RAW format images. The Leica lens also boasts an impressive 24 to 720-millimeter zoom range, allowing you to capture those adorable puffins from a distance. Charging is a breeze, thanks to a micro-USB port that will ensure you’re always ready to capture the moment.

Price at time of publish: $698

Designed to look like super wallet-friendly Rayban Wayfarer dupes, these unisex sunglasses from Kaliyadi are great for protecting your eyes in style without having to splurge. For anyone who’s ever lost a pair of sunglasses on vacation, you know how relieving it is to have a pair that you’re not terrified of breaking or misplacing, which is why these are perfect for everything from windy cliffside walks to exploring Dublin and beyond. The lenses are polarized and provide full UVA and UVB protection, so you can keep your eyes on the prize (aka the magnificent Irish landscapes).

Price at time of publish: $22

Tips for Packing for Ireland

Don’t forget rain gear

No matter the season, you should expect rain when heading to Ireland. While you may experience only brief sun showers in the summer, winter can bring stormy, dreary days, and it will pay to be prepared with proper rain gear. While luxury hotels like Ashford Castle may provide rainboots and rain jackets for use during your stay, you may not want to rely on that if you’ll be moving around during your trip — it’s best to opt for a lightweight raincoat and waterproof shoes to ensure you’re ready to tackle all the activities on your itinerary, regardless of the weather.

Remember your power adapter

While many hotels will likely have adapters available for you to borrow, it’s best to be prepared with one of your own to ensure you can always keep your phone, laptop, camera, and other essential devices powered on. If you happen to forget yours, it’ll be easy enough to track a new one down in the larger cities — but Hoyne warns that if you’re out in the countryside, you may have a harder time.

“If you’re heading outside of larger urban centers, then I’d make sure to have any medication and electrical equipment (phone chargers, adapters, etc.) with you if you’re visiting across a weekend, as smaller, local pharmacies will be closed on Sundays; some on Saturdays too,” she explains. “You may be able to pick up charging cables in village shops, but few will likely have adapters.” While your hotel may have a spare on hand, it will be much more convenient to have access to your own.

Prioritize versatility

With limited packing space, it’s essential to focus on pieces that can be worn repeatedly throughout your trip and in a variety of combinations, like tops that can easily be paired with a sweater and jeans for a casual daytime look, or gussied up with a pair of heels and a skirt for a nice dinner. Stick to neutral colors and patterns in order to optimize your ability to mix-and-match pieces.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I bring a water bottle to Ireland?

Traveling with your own reusable water bottle is always a great way to help reduce waste — not to mention, it’ll save you from shelling out money on overpriced water bottles at the airport and beyond. We recommend the HydraPak Stash Collapsible Water Bottle, which earned a top spot in our tests for its sturdy and easily portable construction, as well as its easy-to-sip-from lid.

Hoyne agrees: “I’d absolutely recommend bringing a reusable water bottle with you. Tap water is perfectly safe to drink in Ireland, although I’d tend not to refill water bottles from bathroom sinks, as this can often be stored in a tank.” She notes that it’s easy to find places to fill up your bottle as you move throughout the country as well, and “most places will be more than happy to refill your bottle for you.” When it comes to drinking water at restaurants and bars, tap water should be provided free of charge.

How should you dress in Ireland?

“I think tourists to Ireland can sometimes be surprised at how style-conscious many Irish people are,” says Hoyne. For daytime, she suggests packing a mix of more casual pieces, such as athleisure, jeans, and tops that can easily be paired together throughout your trip. For dinners out or nights on the town, opt for dressier pants, skirts, and a sturdy pair of heels or heeled boots. Crucially, layering is key both day and night. Waterproof layers are ideal, whether you’re heading out on a hike or wandering around a picturesque village.

While local trends can skew somewhat casual, cities are a great place to show off your style, and versatile pieces that can be dressed up for nights out and layered with sweaters or base layers for more casual ensembles during the day are a light packer’s best friend. Think about which pieces will mix and match the best in order to create the maximum number of outfits as you’re packing, and consider the fluctuating temperature when packing layers — you want things that will keep you warm without adding bulk.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, T+L contributor Sophie Dodd extensively researched the essential items you’ll need to best enjoy a trip to Ireland, from waterproof layers to versatile walking shoes. She also relied on her expertise as a travel writer and frequent packer when considering which pieces were most versatile and easy to pack. Sophie also received expert advice on what visitors should pack from luxury travel blogger Isabelle Hoyne, the founder of Cultured Voyages, as well as Michael Leahy, head of concierge at Ashford Castle in County Mayo.

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