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What To Pack: Ireland in a Carry-On

What To Pack: Ireland in a Carry-On

Packing for a trip to Ireland with only a carry-on and personal item is totally doable—especially with Ireland’s mild, changeable summer weather in mind. Here’s a smart, compact packing list:

Clothing (Mix & Match Layers)

  • 3–4 tops (lightweight, breathable; some long-sleeve for layering)

  • 2–3 bottoms (jeans, travel pants, or leggings)

  • 1 dress/skirt (optional, but nice for dinners)

  • 1 lightweight sweater or fleece

  • 1 waterproof jacket or shell (a must!)

  • 1–2 pairs of shoes:

    • Waterproof walking shoes or sneakers

    • Optional: Casual flats or sandals for evenings

  • Undergarments & socks for 5–6 days (plan to do laundry once)

  • Sleepwear

  • Scarf and/or light hat (weather can shift quickly)

Toiletries

  • Travel-size shampoo, conditioner, body wash

  • Toothbrush/paste, deodorant, razor

  • Minimal makeup/skincare

  • Medications (with copies of prescriptions)

  • Packable laundry detergent (like travel sink packets)

Travel Essentials

  • Plug adapter for Ireland (Type G)

  • Phone & charger

  • Power bank

  • Printed and digital copies of reservations and itinerary

  • Driver’s license & IDP (if renting a car)

  • Small crossbody or day bag for daily use

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Umbrella or packable rain poncho

  • Snacks or granola bars for travel days

Personal Item (Backpack or Tote)

  • Travel documents & passport

  • Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs

  • Book, Kindle, or journal

  • Scarf or light blanket for the plane

Optional (if space allows)

  • Swimsuit (if staying somewhere with a spa/hot tub)

  • Compact binoculars (great for scenic drives or birdwatching)

Photo Blog: Northern Ireland + Scotland

Photo Blog: Northern Ireland + Scotland

We just returned from Scotland and Northern Ireland after three long years of holding our breath–waiting and hoping. I don’t know if three years of deprivation made this a more intense experience, or if we’ve just figured out the formula, but I think those that walked this journey with us would agree–it awoke something in our souls that had been lying dormant, something I’ll do my best to share with you through Brooke’s beautiful photos. They tell the story more beautifully than any words could relay.