Ireland is a much-loved destination for backpackers from all corners of the globe, and with good reason. The spectacularly warm welcome of the Irish people, coupled with the remarkable nightlife and breathtaking natural beauty, make Ireland an ideal destination for travelers to explore. It is no surprise that this small island nation continues to be a favorite stop on many adventurers’ itineraries as they embark on their journeys. With its picturesque landscapes and traditional culture, Ireland offers something for everyone – a perfect place to create lasting memories.
There are few countries that can match Ireland for its ability to provide a truly memorable experience – one that will stay with you long after your trip has ended. Visitors from any European Union nation are able to gain access to Ireland without restriction, provided they carry a valid passport or national identity card. Travelers hailing from the United States of America can stay in the country for up to three months at a time, allowing them to take part in both business and leisure activities visa-free during their visit. UK citizens do not need a passport in order to gain entry into Ireland, but it is possible that some air or sea carriers may request them to present a form of photographic identification before travel. Furthermore, many countries are exempt from visa requirements when traveling to Ireland, including Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
Helpful Tips & Tricks about Backpacking Ireland
As winter approaches, backpackers must be prepared for the potentially harsh and unforgiving conditions that they may face. Ireland is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the world, but unfortunately, much of it is only accessible by foot so it pays to plan ahead and take all necessary precautions. Here we have gathered a few tips and tricks which we have picked up over the years, as well as some wallet-saving gems that will help you make your journey through Ireland’s countryside a more pleasant one.
1. Pack efficiently
A 60-litre backpack is an ideal size for long treks, providing ample room to fit all the essentials you need. Anything larger could become difficult to manage over extended periods of time. Therefore, it is wise to choose a backpack that offers just enough capacity without going overboard. Cubes are the ideal way to make organizing and packing for a camping trip simpler and more efficient. To maximize efficiency, you should use individual bags for each day’s items, which can then be stored in your main backpack. This will make unloading and repacking your gear hassle-free, saving precious time.
Pack your necessities – such as your passport and other important documents – along with those must-haves for Ireland, like a rain poncho and comfortable walking boots. When considering the rest of your items, ask yourself ‘do I really need this?’ If you deem it necessary, then include it in your luggage; otherwise, leave it behind. Bring a good water bottle with you when traveling to Ireland, as the tap water is perfectly safe to drink and is absolutely free of charge! There’s no need to purchase bottled water from shops or supermarkets, as the quality of Ireland’s tap water is excellent.
2. Travel between countries
Backpacking in Ireland is an incredible experience, especially when you realize that there are in fact two countries on a single island. In Northern Ireland, prices of alcohol and certain food items tend to be lower than those in the Republic of Ireland. This is great news for backpackers who want to make their money stretch as far as possible during their travels!
If you are traveling in the vicinity of Northern Ireland, it can be very cost-effective to purchase certain supplies while there. This is especially true if you are planning to cross the border during your journey as it could save you a substantial amount of money. Therefore, it is well worth stocking up on provisions during your stay in Northern Ireland.
3. Faster & cheaper travel
Visiting Ireland during the school term is an ideal time for those looking to travel on a budget, as prices tend to be at their lowest. Visiting during the months between September and July can be a cost-effective option to witness the incredible country. This is also the fastest way to access Ireland, as flights and other transportation services are less likely to be full due to fewer tourists traveling during this period. However, the months of June, July, and August will be especially hectic for bus and train stations as well as ferry ports due to the influx of families traveling in and out. This substantial increase in passengers will inevitably cause a surge in travel prices, making it more costly than usual to get around during these months.
Mid-week, during the school term, is usually the best time to find the lowest prices on traveling in and out of Ireland. To avoid paying more for your journey, it’s wise to plan your trip outside of Ireland’s other school holidays.
4. Driving to Ireland
If you have chosen to drive your own car to Ireland, it is very important to make sure that you park it in a safe and conspicuous area, particularly if the vehicle has out-of-country registration plates. This will help ensure that it stays secure during your time away and will reduce any potential risks associated with theft or damage.
In Ireland, the crime rate is relatively low; however, it is still advisable to take extra precautions with valuable items such as cameras. These should not be left unattended in a car or other vehicle, and it is best to keep them secure on your person at all times.
5. Sleeping in a room with multiple strangers
Accommodation for backpackers commonly comes in the form of hostels, where a large dormitory space with 15-20 people may be shared, who can either be strangers to one another or different groups. Therefore, it’s always essential to mind your items and exercise caution.
If you’re arriving in Ireland and want to store your belongings, ask the hostel staff if they have a safety deposit box. If not, make sure to get a good lock for your belongings. Another way to reduce the chances of theft is to weave your lock through the straps and folds of your backpack and attach it to the most stable part of your bed.
Another tip for the hostel experience is to bring earplugs. While sleeping in a room with multiple strangers, the law of averages states that at least one of them will snore. Snoring can be a nuisance to those sleeping next to it, and giving earplugs as a peace offering can help to ease the irritation that someone may feel because of your snoring.
6. Keep it cheap
Ireland is home to many beautiful towns and villages, and one of the best (and cheapest!) ways to explore them is by taking the public bus. Connecting various parts of this captivating country by combining your bus routes with those available while walking or cycling can provide an amazing experience, in addition to financially beneficial savings.
Hitchhiking, although it is a great way to get around Ireland, is more effective for individuals traveling solo with minimal luggage. commonly referred to as “thumbing a lift”, this mode of transport offers an opportunity for genuine conversations with the locals and forays into foreign cultures.
7. Find free walking tours
Exploring the cities of Ireland through free walking tours is a great way to gain insight into the city’s past. Offered at no cost, the itinerary allows tourists to join in and opt-out at any time, however, it is common practice to leave a small tip for the guide to whom one has uninterrupted access.
In addition to this, many of the museums across Ireland are actually free of charge, making them an ideal way to spend a leisurely afternoon. Exploring these institutions can be a great opportunity for visitors and locals alike to learn more about the country’s history and culture – it is certainly an experience not to be missed.
8. Eat where the locals eat
One way to save money on food is to eat where locals eat. This is usually not in more expensive tourist areas. To get a feeling for this, it may take a few nights in different cities. A good rule of thumb is to check out where the students eat.
Most supermarkets in Ireland offer a discounted price on food items that are close to their ‘sell by date’. This is an excellent way to save money and stock up on some short-term supplies. All of these items will generally be displayed together, making them easy to identify for shoppers looking for a bargain.
9. Make a plan and stick to it
Having a budget which is divided up into daily spending can be an absolute lifesaver. You will feel so relieved and content towards the end of your vacation when you realize that, although you have spent 90% of your allocated budget, it has only gone on the first half of your holiday. This means that if you manage to stick to your plan for the remaining 50%, there won’t be any financial stress attached to enjoying yourself for the rest of its duration.
10. Journal your travel
If you ever choose to embark on a similar backpacking journey in the future, having the addresses of your beloved pubs, most economical laundromats, and other necessary locations quickly accessible would be incredibly advantageous. This information could prove truly invaluable, allowing you to make the most out of your trip and ensure that it runs as smoothly as possible.
11. Get out and Socialise!
To save money when traveling, it is important to get to know other travelers. Look for backpackers who have been in a given location the longest and ask them for advice. Some backpackers may be willing to share their wisdom, while others may not be as generous.
Socializing with a larger group can be beneficial for many reasons, not least of which is the potential for discounts when it comes to outdoor activities in Ireland. This is especially advantageous if you are traveling solo, as these savings can make a considerable difference to your budget. Group discounts are widely available and should be taken advantage of whenever possible.
12. Earn as you go
If you want to work on an Irish farm in return for free accommodation, there are usually different tasks you can do, like picking fruit or vegetables in the summer or helping with the harvest in the fall. If you’re looking for a place to stay while you’re there, some Irish hostels offer free board as well in return for work, like cooking and/or cleaning.
