This is my first time to Ireland, Scotland and Wales. I am going the first 2 weeks this June. I will bring rain gear but do I need long sleeved blouses and sweaters? I don't want to pack the wrong things or bring too much. I understand to layer clothes but what kind of clothes? I'll bring pants for the Irish countryside but skirts for the city? Thanks to anyone for any info.
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
One sweater in addition to a windbreaker should be enough for the coldest possible circumstance. Even in winter, Ireland doesn't get terribly cold, and you'll be there in June.
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
9363 posts
I would suggest wearing what you wear here (pants vs skirts). I have been there several times and have never worn a skirt anywhere. Pants are completely acceptable.
Posted by
London, UK
356 posts
You shouldn't be cold in June, but rain is always a possibility. I would bring a cardigan or thin jacket incase the evenings are chillier. You definitely don't need to bring skirts unless you normally wear them. A pair of smart trousers are always useful if you plan to go anywhere that's more formal. We don't refer to trousers as pants over here so I have this vision of you running around the Irish countryside in your undies!
Posted by
Boulder, CO, USA
780 posts
Always remember, a new sweater bought at Marks & Spencers can be a fun souvenier!!
Posted by
Newcastle, WA, USA
643 posts
Indeed. I bought an umbrella in London at Muji (it cost a fortune) and it is a great memory of the trip!
Posted by
New York City, NY, USA
5678 posts
I am going to disagree on a sweater and a windbreaker. You need waterproof rain gear. It's not onerous, but you need to pop for goretex or something similar. Water repellant is not good enough. Whenever you go to the British Isles you need to plan on rain, but you don't wan the rain to stop you. The best way to do that is to have proper gear. I go to Scotland with a waterprooof Goretex Jacket. I bring a lightweight fleece with me and plan to buy a new sweater as one of my souvenirs. I would also say to throw in some light weight gloves and a light weigh wool hat. Or buy one once you get there. i've gone hiking in Scotland in July and been glad of both. You don't have to pack a full winter kit, but be aware that it rains all the time off and on in the UK and particularly in Scotland. The BBC seems to have a perpetual black cloud over Scotland as any Englishman will tell you. Feel free to PM me if you want more specifics.
Pam