We will be traveling to Ireland April 25-May 3. What do you recommend we pack for clothes? How warm should we dress, etc?
Hi Jared,
My husband and I were in Ireland at this exact time last year. The weather was cool (I'd say anywhere from 45-55 degrees), somewhat rainy, but enjoyable. It seemed to rain a little bit every day, but it never stopped us from our plans.
We packed jeans and khakis, long-sleeve shirts and some light sweaters, fleece jackets (like Northface types) and a light-weight rain jacket.
We had a car through the whole trip, so it was easy to change in and out of the fleece jacket and rain jacket as needed.
That's the beauty of Ireland, yesterday we had wind and rain that would impress a high seas sailor, today we have sunshine and a warm breeze!! It's not going to be T-shirt weather either way. Shirt and jumper, bring jackets suitable for some rain. If you find it too cold put on a couple of T-shirts under the jumper.
Think layering. Bring light shirts, one fleece layer or a light sweater, light jackets, and a rain layer that fits over everything. That way, everything can be worn individually, but it can all be layered on if needed.
Heres what I pack, adjust to taste:
http://www.polyvore.com/mens_travel_pack_list/set?id=1440268
It's all about clothes that travel well and layering.
You don't need heavy jeans and sweaters even when it is cold. Fast drying pants will keep you warmer than jeans if you get in rain. Waterproof walking shoes and a good rain shell are the most important things.
I've been in Ireland in early May. We had nice weather, very little rain after what everyone said was an unusually wet April. We never went anywhere without a rain shell handy because you never know when you will need it.
I think you pack for Ireland pretty much the same all year round - layers. Maybe somewhat lighter layers in the summer, somewhat heavier in the winter, but still be prepared for pretty much anything.
I have been in Ireland on two occasions at this time of the year. For me, a person who feels the cold, the key has been to keep my extremities warm i.e. wear a hat, scarf and gloves along with the layers.
I will be there during the same time period and thought about gloves, etc., but then thought I was being a ridiculous wimp. After all it will be mid-Spring and why take up room in the suitcase?? I froze my #^! off in Amsterdam, Bruges and Paris over the holidays so now I am thinking it will be better to be safe than sorry.
Mid-Spring!!! Spring in Ireland is colder than the middle of winter here in South Australia!!!! I had no idea what wind chill was until I travelled to the northern hemisphere.
I agree with all the posters who suggest layers. If you have a fleece with a hood, you shouldn't need a hat. I would advise against bringing jeans. If they get wet, which is highly likely in Ireland, they can make you miserable because they take so long to dry. Take it from one who's been there!