How to make the best of a rainy forecast?

My experience with Ireland is that even days that are described as "Sunny" have at least 2 or 3 brief rain showers. It's never torrential and its not cold in the summer. Wear layers. Include a light, waterproof jacket. Embrace the "fine, soft day."

Bring a waterproof (not water resistant) raincoat, waterproof your shoes and ditch the umbrella. I was never as cold, wet and muddy as I was one July in Ireland. In two weeks in Ireland, we had one sunny day when we were on the Dingle Peninsula and it was glorious. But that is my limited experience. I know others who have been had hot sunny weather and were wearing shorts. You never know. Just be prepared for it and you’ll be fine.

We don't waterproof our shoes, but we always keep a pair of dry socks in a zip lock bag in our day bags. They've saved the day on several occasions.

Another Pacific Northwesterner here chiming in to urge you not to worry and instead embrace the raindrops - they're the reason Ireland is green after all. The Dublin weather forecast says occasional rain showers and some days notes possible sun breaks - nothing is quite as beautiful as the sun coming out after a rain shower. Layers are your friend - the most important being the waterproof/windproof outer layer, but also some good base layers that you can peel on and off as the weather changes. I agree with the back up dry sock suggestion. And ducking into a pub and having a pint (or two) is a cultural experience you shouldn't miss anyway - chances are they'll be talking about the weather :) Have a wonderful trip.

I found that a lightweight, longer length poncho with a hood did a great job keeping me relatively dry during 2 trips to Ireland. I carried a small backpack under the poncho so my extra socks, shirt, gloves etc also stayed dry. Also wore leather Keen boots on those wet days with wool socks. My husband on the other hand was miserable since he believed (wrongly) that his leather jacket would be fine. Have a great trip!

Rain pants take up very little room in your suitcase and can be a real lifesaver. I always pack these if I intend to spend much time outdoors in a rainy, or possibly rainy weather. Waterproof shoes, rain pants, waterproof jacket with hood and I can spend the whole day outdoors in the wettest weather and be comfortable.

“no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing”. Wainwright