The Emerald Isle holds a sort of mystical lure amidst the backdrop of its luscious green landscape. Situated in the Atlantic Ocean, this small European island packs a big punch. “I’m going to Ireland,” means something different to each traveler. Perhaps it’s your first international trip on a brand new passport. Maybe you’re headed north to see the land from which your ancestors came and learn more about that Irish heritage of yours. Or, you might  be camping or hiking your way across this great country to commune with the land and learn more about yourself.

Ireland is an amazing place to adventure with friends, explore a bit, eat a bit, drink in pubs, chat with locals, and wander through the footsteps of history. Regardless of the reasons you’re headed to Ireland, your voyage begins before you set foot across the border. Dream up your kind of journey, research adventures for your trip, and figure out what to pack.

Start by Choosing Your Luggage

Luggage can make or break your trip. The Outbreaker Backpack is perfect for a trip to Ireland — its chic with a spacious main compartment for clothing and carry on sized — so you can forget about all the hassles of checked luggage. It has plenty of space for a trip to Ireland and room for souvenirs.

Once you’ve got the right luggage, use this fail proof list of what to bring to Ireland while keeping it light in a carry on.

What to Pack for Ireland: The Necessities

No matter where you’re traveling (Ireland definitely included), there are a few things that should always be packed. If you’re smart, you will keep these in the bag that never leaves your side, because these are the items that are most important and often hardest to replace.

• Wallet: With ID, passport & an extra copy of front page of your passport
• Travel documents: Including travel insurance and visa documents if you need them
• Medications: Daily, necessary, and allergy – carry extras & copies of prescriptions
• Necessary tech: Chargers & converters – double check compatibility

Personal Item: Keep it Close

If you’re flying to Ireland, and you probably are, you’ll want to think carefully about packing your personal item so that you’ve got all of the necessities at hand for the flight and immediately when you arrive. If you choose to check a bag on your flight, be even more intentional about packing this personal item, in case the airline loses your luggage and you have to live out of this bag for a day or two!

• Mini first aid kit
• Liquids bag (follow 3:1:1 guidelines)
• Change of clothes
• Headphones
• Sunscreen
• Gum or mints
• Sunglasses
• Lip balm
• Unscented lotion
• Antibacterial or baby wipes
• Fuzzy socks or flip flops
• Scarf, pashmina, or travel blanket
• Make up
• Mini flash light
• Feminine hygiene products (if necessary)
• Contact lenses & travel size solution, or glasses
• Tissues
• Lacrosse or tennis ball (eases back pain and tight muscles)

Toiletries: So You Don’t Stink

Keep in mind the TSA 3-1-1 rule as you pack your toiletries. Remember that less is often more and you can purchase everything you need in Ireland. Consider trying dry toiletries to make more room in your quart sized ziplock bag.

• Deodorant
• Toothpaste & toothbrush
• Travel size shampoo, conditioner, body soap
• Razor & grooming kit
• Travel towel

Weather: Pack for the Unpredictable

Ireland can be a packing challenge. On any day of winter, spring, summer or fall – you may need layers, sunscreen, a raincoat, a hat and closed-toed shoes. As a rule of thumb, always remember that the possibility of rain is real every single day. The old saying is true, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.” Weather can be unpredictable and it’s a good idea to pack for three seasons, no matter when you are going. That means something warm, solid shoes, and a rainproof outer layer, at least.

• Rain jacket (longer than usual)
• Sturdy, closed-toed shoes (consider hiking shoes over sneakers)
• One extra pair of shoes
• Umbrella
• Hat, scarf, gloves, & Buff
• Extra layers (wool is a good choice)
• Warm jacket with a hood
• Bathing suit

Pack Your Tech: Go, Go Gadget Everything

If you’re coming from outside of Europe you are likely to need an adapter for your plugs and maybe a power convertor too. Be sure you’ve got your cords and extras of the things you need to connect. Plan for your phone connectivity, unless you already have T-mobile.

• Power adapter
• Necessary converters
• Tablet, phone, computer, & necessary chargers
• Portable charger & cords
• Camera, lens, batteries(2), memory cards(2), & chargers
• External hard drive to back up your memories
• GPS or personal wifi hotspot

Clothes: Stay Warm & Dry

Ireland has a casual vibe most places. Unless you’re planning for a very special occasion, there’s no need to pack your fancy clothes. Remember that layers are your friends.

• Light sweater (packable is best so you can shove it in a bag when no longer needed)
• Layers (wool base layers are the best)
• Extra socks (many places have limited, or no heating – no one wants cold, wet feet)
• 4-7 pair underwear
• 4-7 pair socks
• 1-2 jeans or pants
• 3-5 t-shirts (lightweight and great for layering)
• 2 long sleeve outer layer tops (sweaters or sweatshirts are great)
• 1-2 skirts or dresses (depending on the season)

Extras: Wants, Maybes, & Mights

Of course there are a few comfort items and extras that will make your trip more pleasant. Everyone has a slightly different list, but these items might be things to consider as you head to Ireland.

• Reusable shopping bags or totes (makes it easy to grab treats at a local market)
• Reusable water bottle
• Bug spray (depending on the season)
• Small binoculars
• Noise canceling headphones
• Jewelry
• Journal & pens
• Duct tape (a must if you’re camping – to patch holes in tents, also great for blisters if you hike the countryside)
• Work out gear

Ireland Bucket List: What to See

They don’t call it the Emerald Isle for nothing. Ireland is a beautiful blend of urban adventures, small town charm, and countryside that begs to be wandered.

Urban Adventures

You’re likely to start in Dublin if you fly in. Don’t spend your whole week in just Dublin and think you’ve seen Ireland. Conversely, don’t make the mistake of skipping most of the city you arrive and depart from. Spend some time in Dublin and explore:

• Trinity College (Dublin)
• Grafton Street Area (Dublin)
• St. Stephen’s Green (Dublin)
• Irish Whiskey Museum (Dublin)
• Guinness Storehouse (Dublin)
• Kilmainham Gaol (Dublin)

Small Town Delights

Ireland is full of small towns and hamlets, each with its own flair. If you want to get to know a town, visit the pub on a Saturday afternoon or after work on a week day and get to know the locals. No doubt you’ll explore many, but don’t miss Cork, famous for the Blarney Stone, but full of other interest too. The English Market is wonderful.

• The English Market (Cork)
• Blarney Stone (Cork)

Outdoor Adventures

Traveling through Ireland is like adventuring through a postcard. The scenery is spectacular at every turn. History blends with culture and preserved wildlife in national parks and secluded islands. Be sure to take the time to explore some of the best of the Irish countryside. Rent a car. Take a bus trip. Or maybe just a long walk.

• The Burren
• The Aran Islands
• Cliffs of Moher (County Clare)
• The Ring of Kerry (Kerry)
• The Dingle Peninsula (County Kerry)
• Connemara National Park (Galway)
• The Cooley Peninsula (between Belfast and Dublin)
• Glendalough (one hour south of Dublin)
• Giant’s Causeway (Northern Ireland)
• Glenveagh National Park (County Donegal)

Ireland draws countless visitors season after season and year after year. Enticing guests from all parts of the globe, people come for the scenery and stay for the flowing libations.

Whether it’s the green of the countryside, the brown goodness in the glass, or the kindness in the hearts of the countrymen – Ireland doesn’t disappoint. Pack for all seasons, keep your extremities warm and dry and plan to split your time between urban adventures, small town pubs, and the gorgeous countryside.

Pack light so you can focus on your trip and choose a carry on travel backpack to make packing and traveling a breeze.

Sláinte!