What To Wear In Ireland: Packing List and Outfit Inspiration

Packing for a trip to Ireland is not a piece of cake, especially when considering the unpredictable weather. While you may not be able to control the rain and wind, you can control what you pack.

Ireland is a picture-perfect country, with endless green landscapes, rugged coastlines, charming villages, and pubs that offer irresistible charm. The unpredictable and rainy weather is just a small price to pay for the breathtaking views that will take your breath away. If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, you shouldn’t worry too much about the weather, as long as you pack appropriately.

As the Irish saying goes, “If in the sky you see cliffs and towers, it won’t be long before there is a shower.” Looking good and staying comfortable in the changeable weather can be a challenge. This Ireland packing guide has got you covered with outfit inspiration that combines warmth, comfort, and style.

What to pack for a trip to Ireland to feel comfy and look stylish

While you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared for the cool, damp conditions, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. Check out my ultimate Ireland packing list and outfit inspiration for tips on how to stay dry, warm, and fashionable while exploring this stunning country.

What’s the weather in Ireland like?

“You don’t go to Ireland because of the weather, you go to Ireland despite the weather.” And it couldn’t be truer. The climate in Ireland is anything but boring and predictable, much like the colorful and lively Irish folks themselves.

The climate in Ireland is mild, moist, and changeable. It rains a lot, with about 270 days of rain per year. The wind can be a bit of a challenge, but extreme temperatures are pretty rare. If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, you’ll want to pack for all sorts of weather.

Although there are four seasons throughout the year, it’s not uncommon to experience all of them in one day.

What to wear in Ireland: Packing list

When it comes to bottoms, be sure to include a pair of jeans or pants of your choice, as well as some leather or suede options for a night out. If you plan on hiking, don’t forget to pack some leggings. For tops, pack basic t-shirts and a trusty white shirt, along with a puffer or quilted vest and a cozy flannel or plaid shirt. Make sure to bring along a rain coat and a warm coat for extra layers. A fisherman sweater and some jumpers or turtlenecks will keep you snug as a bug. Accessories like beanies, newsboy hats, and bucket hats will help to keep your head warm in the gusty winds, along with scarves and gloves. Don’t leave without an umbrella, and make sure to bring some sturdy rain boots and leather sneakers for all the walking you’ll be doing. Here are some key items you should add to you Ireland packing list and some outfit inspiration:

What to wear in Ireland: bottoms packing list

Be sure to pack bottoms that are versatile enough for any adventure, such as a pair of jeans or pants, as well as suede or leather pants for dressier occasions. If you’re planning to do any hiking pack Don’t forget some cozy sweatpants for lounging and road-tripping!

Leather pants or leather leggings

Whether you’re a fan of The Matrix or not, there’s no denying the allure of a sleek pair of leather pants. The perfect choice for anyone looking to add a touch of edgy-cool to their wardrobe, they’re mysterious, easy-to-wear, and always in style. But their practicality goes beyond just looks. For those traveling to Ireland, where the weather can change from sunny to stormy in a matter of minutes, leather pants or leggings make for a smart, year-round clothing choice. With endless silhouettes and styling options available, the best leather pants can serve as staple pieces in anyone’s wardrobe, no matter their personal style.

Faux leather leggings

Personally, I am a huge fan of Wear Commando’s faux leather leggings. I have a pair in every dark shade… When I’m traveling outside of Miami in the winter months, these leggings are my go-to item.

They are ultra-lightweight, making them perfect for winter travel and exploring all day long. Compared to a heavier pair of jeans, three pairs of these leggings still weigh the same, which is fantastic for packing purposes. They are leggings (duh..) but don’t look sloppy due to the leather finish and quality materials while still making you feel like you are wearing a second skin.

Waterproof boots

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, there’s one thing you absolutely cannot forget to pack: rain boots. The constantly changing weather means that rain is never out of the question, and even if it’s not raining at the moment, you’re guaranteed to encounter wet grass and damp paths. But don’t worry, just because you need to be practical doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. There are plenty of cute rain boots out there that are the perfect combination of fashionable and functional. So be sure to pack a pair and embrace the rainy weather with confidence and flair.

Don’t forget to spray your other shoes with waterproofing spray to ensure they stay looking their best in any weather.

What to wear in Ireland: Tops packing list

For tops, pack basic t-shirts and a trusty white shirt, along with a puffer or quilted vest and a cozy flannel or plaid shirt. Make sure to bring along a rain coat and a warm coat for extra layers. A fisherman sweater and some jumpers or turtlenecks will keep you snug as a bug.

Rain Coat

Pair it with a leather bottom for a relaxed yet edgy look that’s perfect for exploring Ireland’s city environment.

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, get ready for rain. With about 270 days of rain a year, it’s no secret why the country is renowned for its lush, emerald green landscapes. But what does that mean for you as a traveler? Packing a rain coat, rain boots and umbrella!

No longer exclusive to drab school-bus-yellow options, raincoats now come in an array of colors, patterns, and silhouettes that can take your rainy day look from drab to fab. And if the weather happens to turn into a wintry-mix, just add a few layers underneath your raincoat to stay warm and cozy.

Consider a transparent coat or timeless trench to showcase your cool look underneath. And as important as it is to have a great coat, don’t overlook your accessories. Breathable and light layers are key, so opt for comfortable shoes, a functional hat, or an umbrella to keep you dry and chic.

Plaid Shirt

When it comes to deciding what to wear in Ireland, plaid is your secret weapon. It’s the ultimate cool weather staple that pairs perfectly with the country’s chilly weather and cozy atmosphere.

While plaid may seem like a predictable choice, there are countless variations and patterns to choose from. Traditional black watch tartan in deep greens and blues or glen plaid in shades of burgundy, brown, and rust are timeless options that exude warmth and comfort. But if you’re feeling bold, brightly colored buffalo checks and black-and-white houndstooth can make a statement.

Puffer or Quilted Vest

While the weather in Ireland is always unpredictable, one item that should definitely make it onto your packing list is a puffer vest. In the past, I was never a fan of puffer vests, but my experience in Ireland changed my mind.

It’s the perfect item for dealing with the ever-changing weather. One minute it could be sunny, and the next it’s chilly and windy. The vest is lightweight, making it easy to pack and comfortable to wear over a warm jumper or a short-sleeved top. You’ll be grateful for the extra warmth when the Atlantic wind picks up.

So while you’re packing for your Ireland adventure, don’t forget to include a trusty puffer vest in your suitcase!

Sweaters and Cardigans

Traveling to Ireland means cooler weather and what better way to stay warm and stylish than with a cozy sweater or cardigan? As simple as it may seem, a sweater can transform any outfit, adding texture, color, and depth to your overall aesthetic. It comes in different textures, colors, prints and weights, each bringing a unique vibe to your outfit. Sweaters and cardigans might be the first answer to the what to wear in Ireland question. You can be effortlessly chic with a neutral-toned cashmere sweater or opt for a playful and fun look with a bright and chunky cardigan.

Aran sweater

However, one must-do for any sweater lover in Ireland is to purchase one of the famous Aran jumpers. These knits can be found in just about every town in Ireland, but the best place to buy them is on the actual Aran Islands themselves. These iconic sweaters are hand-knit using traditional stitches and are a true symbol of Irish heritage.

Coat

When packing for your trip to Ireland, there are essential items that you can’t forget, and a coat is definitely one of them.

A puffer coat is perfect for keeping you cozy and protected from the cold winds, while a lighter trench coat is great for those milder days. But a coat is not just about functionality; it’s an opportunity to elevate any outfit.

I remember my first day in Ireland when I threw a beige denim maxi coat over some straight-off-the-plane sweatpants and instantly elevated my entire look.

Dresses

Many people assume that pants are the only option for travel attire, but I beg to differ. In fact, I believe that you should always pack at least one dress no matter where your travels take you, even to chilly destinations like Ireland. The cool temperatures and Atlantic winds might make you think twice about bringing a dress, but trust me, it’s worth it.

A dress can be layered with jumpers or cardigans to keep you warm, and paired with cool rain boots, it can make for a great outfit. And if you’re exploring the Irish countryside, a peasant-style dress with a cardigan, socks, and bootsies will give you a cozy, rustic look while also being incredibly comfortable.

Accessoires to pack for a trip to Ireland

Hats, scarves, and sunglasses can add flair to any outfit and transform a look without the need for extra clothing. In Ireland specifically, hats are not only a fashion statement, but also provide comfort and warmth on days when the weather turns chilly.

Consider packing a newsboy cap for a classic and timeless look, or a cool beanie for a more casual and comfortable option.

Hats

The newsboy cap, originally a classic of Charles Dickens novels, has been revamped with leather trimmings, flashy buttons, and luxe textures. Paired with edgy separates, this hat can add a touch of boyish charm to any outfit. Flat caps and newsboy caps can be dressed up or down, working well with everything from jeans and a t-shirt to a more chic ensemble. For colder weather, don’t forget to pack a cable knit beanie – arguably the most indispensable winter accessory.

Lightweight and easy to pack, try bringing a few in different colors to switch up your look. And if you’re feeling daring, swap out your classic beanie for a trendy bucket hat or furry bucket hat. Keep warm without compromising on style by packing the right hats for your Ireland adventure.

Scarves and Gloves

Layering up for cold weather can often be a challenge, especially if you want to keep up your fashion game along with staying warm. Fortunately, accessories can make all the difference. One of the must-have accessories for chilly months is a scarf, particularly if you’re traveling to Ireland. While you may be able to brave the winds without one during the summer months, a scarf is essential during wintertime visits.Whether you opt for a big blanket-style scarf or choose a cozy cashmere blend, an oversized scarf is going to be the key to staying cozy. And, you can always pick up a pretty new scarf while exploring the boutiques in Ireland!

Umbrella

Rain and Ireland – two inseparable companions. It’s hard to imagine a trip to Ireland without packing a raincoat and rain boots. But let’s face it, it’s nearly impossible to look cute in the pouring rain. However, with the right equipment, such as a cute umbrella, your style needn’t be sacrificed. Nowadays, there’s a wide variety of umbrellas available in every color and style, so you can stand out in a sea of black umbrellas.

Shoes:

Waterproof boots

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, there’s one thing you absolutely cannot forget to pack: rain boots. The constantly changing weather means that rain is never out of the question, and even if it’s not raining at the moment, you’re guaranteed to encounter wet grass and damp paths. But don’t worry, just because you need to be practical doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. There are plenty of cute rain boots out there that are the perfect combination of fashionable and functional. So be sure to pack a pair and embrace the rainy weather with confidence and flair.

Don’t forget to spray your other shoes with waterproofing spray to ensure they stay looking their best in any weather.

For footwear, make sure to bring some trusty rain boots and comfortable leather sneakers, as well as some stylish booties for a night out.

Ireland packing list

• For bottoms, pack jeans or pants and suede/leather trousers for dressier occasions; leggings for hiking; and sweatpants for lounging.
• Tops: pack versatile tops like basic t-shirts and white shirts; a puffer or quilted vest; flannel or plaid shirt; sweater/cardigan; fisherman sweater; jumpers/turtlenecks to keep you snug as a bug.
• Bring at least one dress paired with cool rain boots to look effortlessly chic even on chilly days.
• Accessories like beanies, newsboy hats, bucket hats and scarves & gloves are essential items.
• Shoes: waterproof boots, comfortable sneakers, leather booties – waterproof your other shoes too!
• When planning a trip to Ireland, be sure to pack waterproof boots and a raincoat, as rain is never out of the question.
• To complete your look, consider investing in a stylish umbrella – it’ll keep the rain off and help you stand out in a sea of black umbrellas.
• When in Ireland, check out Aran jumpers. These jumpers are hand-knit using traditional stitches – true symbols of Irish heritage.

Weather in Ireland

Summer Months

With average highest temperatures ranging between 8°C and 21°C, it’s the perfect time to explore the beautiful countryside and bustling cities. Spring brings a refreshing sprinkle of rain that keeps the grass lush and green, while summer boasts longer days with almost 18 hours of sunlight in the warmest months of July and August.If you’re planning a summer visit, be prepared for an influx of tourists, especially in July, as it is the peak season for visitors.

Winter Months

During autumn (September to November), temperatures typically range from 8°C to 14°C. September is a particularly pleasant month, with mild temperatures and comfortable weather. As winter sets in (December to February), temperatures in the inland areas usually hover around 7°C. The coldest months are January and February, where the temperature can occasionally drop below freezing.

Conclusion

Ireland is easily one of the most gorgeous countries in the world, with its lush green landscapes, stunning coastlines and charming villages that look like they could be straight out of a postcard. However, it’s no secret that the weather in Ireland can be unpredictable and rainy at times, which can make packing for a trip to this beautiful country quite challenging.You might experience all four seasons in just one day, making it difficult to predict what to wear or what to plan. I hope my ” What to wear in Ireland” guide and packing list will help you plan your best outfits.