5 Tips for Traveling to Ireland

Hi Travelers! Today’s blog is a little different from our normal promotion details. I’ve compiled a list of 5 tips that are useful when traveling to Ireland.

1. Using Your Phone While in Ireland – International fees are costly and can stack up without being aware. To use your phone in Ireland while paying minimal fees or avoiding the cost altogether, there are a few things you can do. First, turn your data off (or use airplane mode) while in Ireland. If you’re phone receives any type of data that runs off of cellular service, you will be charged. For example, telephone calls or text messages. If you have an iPhone, be sure to only send and receive texts through iMessage and calls through Facetime. It may be a good idea to speak with your cellular provider about an International plan which includes talk minutes and data roaming for when you need to make regular phone calls and/or use the Internet without wi-fi. Wi-fi on your trip is your best friend to staying in touch with family and friends. If you have access to wi-fi, you can use different services such as Facebook, Whatsapp, Google Voice, etc. to connect with friends and family.
2. Renting a Car and Purchasing Insurance – To rent a car in Ireland, all you will need is a valid US driver’s license and a credit card. If you decide to purchase insurance, some credit card companies such as Amazon Prime and Chase may cover your insurance so we recommend checking in with your credit card company before your trip to find out.
3. Packing for Your Trip to Ireland – Ireland is known for its pubs, beautiful views and castles, and abundant rainfall. It can be bright and sunny one minute, and windy and rainy the next. So be sure to pack for multiple climates, wear layers, and to always keep a raincoat or a travel umbrella nearby. You should always expect that it might rain, even on a sunny day. Past travelers have also recommended bringing waterproof shoes.The sunniest months are May and June and May to July are reasonably warm, the longest days, and the peak of tourist season. The wettest months are December and January.
4. Using Cards and Cash – While in Ireland you are able to use credit and debit cards but you may want to watch out for any fees. Before you trip, it is definitely worth contact your bank and inquiring about using your card(s) internationally. Regarding cash, there are ATM in which you can withdraw money. You may want to carry 100 to 200 euros in cash, depending on the length of your stay.
5. Tip 10-15% in Irish Restaurants and Pubs – Ireland does not have as heavy of a tipping culture as you’d find in the United States, but it’s still customary to leave 10-15% of your tab for service at a restaurant or pub. Note that sometimes for large groups a service charge will already be added.

Those are only 5 tips that answer many travelers frequently asked questions. Stay tuned for more tips when traveling to Ireland, Scotland, Iceland, Italy, and Britain. And don’t forget to check out our Promotions page for deals for the month of May before they expire! Check back the first week of June for new deals and promotions! Happy traveling!