Planning a trip to Ireland in December? You’re probably wondering what to pack for chilly days, festive nights, and the possibility of rain or even a dusting of frost or snow. With winter in full swing, packing can feel a little daunting, but with the right essentials, you’ll be ready for Ireland’s magical holiday season.
Having spent many Decembers in Ireland when I was younger, I can tell you it’s one of the most enchanting times to visit. The streets sparkle with Christmas lights, cosy pubs glow with warmth, and the air feels alive with festive cheer. You just need to dress smartly to enjoy it all in comfort.
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly what to pack for Ireland in December, from warm layers and waterproof gear to handy accessories, so you can stay cosy, dry, and ready to experience the charm of an Irish winter.
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What to Pack for Ireland in December
Many people visiting Ireland in December expect freezing temperatures and constant rain, but the reality is often milder and far more charming than expected. While winter brings shorter days and cooler air, it also creates that cosy, festive atmosphere Ireland is famous for.
Temperatures typically range from 3–9°C (37–48°F), so it’s definitely coat weather, but not unbearable with the right layers. You might get crisp, clear mornings followed by light rain or drizzle later in the day, typical Irish winter weather that keeps the landscapes lush and green.
The secret to packing well for Ireland in December? Warmth and waterproofing. Bring breathable layers, a reliable warm raincoat, and comfortable footwear that can handle damp streets or countryside strolls.
With that in mind, let’s dive into my clothing and footwear recommendations to help you stay snug and ready for whatever winter brings.
What clothes to pack for Ireland in December
Clothing Essentials
December in Ireland calls for warm layers and practical clothing to stay comfortable in the cool, often damp weather. It’s not the time for light outfits, think cosy and weather-ready instead.
Jeans or lined trousers paired with long-sleeve tops, wool socks, and a warm fleece or jumper are ideal for everyday wear. A good-quality winter coat is essential, especially for time spent outdoors or exploring coastal areas.
I never travel to Ireland in winter without jeans, warm waterproof boots and my trusty winter coat that is also waterproof. I also bring a set of base layers, as coming from Portugal, I really feel the cold in Ireland these days, much to my family’s amusement.
Trust me, if you’re traveling from a warmer climate, you may find Ireland’s winter chill more noticeable, so pack a little heavier. Two or three pairs of jeans or weather-resistant trousers will be plenty, and you can safely leave shorts and skirts at home.
Jeans/leggings – Given Ireland’s wintry December weather, some jeans or warm leggings are essential. Jeans are a staple of the wardrobe in Ireland and can be dressed down during the day or dressed up with a nice top and a pair of shoes for evenings.
Long-sleeved tops – You’ll want to prioritize long-sleeved options for December. One or two fancier tops for evening wear are advisable if you are planning on a few nice dinners during the festive season.
Fleece tops – Ideal for layering up, pack a few fleece tops. They are lightweight, versatile and can keep you warm on cooler days or in the evenings. I always pack 2 per person so we can rotate them.
Medium-weight sweater – December evenings can get quite cold, so pack at least one medium-weight sweater or cardigan for layering. This is especially important for coastal areas and rural regions.
Technical pants – For the outdoor enthusiasts among you, some technical pants or hiking trousers are ideal for hiking and walking in the Irish countryside or mountains during the comfortable autumn weather.
Dresses – Ladies, you may want to pack a dress or two if you want. Evening dresses are perfect for December’s festive events, like Waterford’s Winterval or dining in a fancy restaurant. Make sure they are long dresses for warmth, and pair them with some black flats or ankle boots.
Comfortable walking shoes – Essential for December when you may be exploring on foot. Choose waterproof options as winter rain is common, which can turn snowy.
Cardigan – If you are going to be out and about in the evenings, a cardigan will go a long way in keeping the cold of a December evening off, even indoors in restaurants or a theatre.
Evening shirt and chinos – For the men in your travel party, a pair of chinos and an evening shirt should be packed if you are planning a nice dinner somewhere or attending one of December’s excellent festive events.
Loafers or dress shoes – Pair the chinos and evening shirt with loafers or dress shoes for a smarter evening look during cultural events.
Light scarf – A lightweight scarf is perfect for December’s changeable, cold weather and adds a stylish touch to your autumn outfits.
Swimwear – If your accommodation or hotel has a pool or spa, remember to pack your swim gear, though you’re less likely to brave the Atlantic Ocean with temperatures around 10°C (50°F).
I highly recommend you invest in a good set of packing cubes to keep yourself organized and reduce space in your luggage. I always use them and have color-coordinated ones for each member of the family.
Waterproof Clothing and Equipment
While December weather is typically wintery and cold, Ireland can and does experience rain throughout the country during this month, which can, on occasion, turn to snow.
This is why I always recommend that travelers to Ireland pack at least a waterproof jacket or raincoat with a hood. Going for a good quality one is essential too, such as one with breathable material like Gore-Tex, so you aren’t overheating during any milder December days.
Waterproof footwear is crucial for those who will be exploring beyond the main cities. You’ll want waterproof shoes or hiking boots for countryside adventures to keep your feet nice and dry during those December rainy days.
The Irish countryside can get muddy when it rains, especially around historical sites that don’t have pavements to walk on, so proper footwear is essential!
Whatever your preferred travel style, many cities and attractions involve walking both outdoors and indoors, so make sure your footwear is comfortable for the days you’ll be walking miles!
Don’t forget a waterproof backpack cover if you’ll be carrying a day pack for excursions. Quick-dry fabrics throughout your wardrobe will make your trip more comfortable.
Packing for Ireland in December – Essentials
Now that you’ve sorted your clothing for Ireland in December, it’s time to think about the other essentials. From travel basics to useful electronics and handy gadgets, these extra items will help make your winter trip to Ireland smooth, comfortable, and stress-free.
Travel essentials
Passports – You need to ensure your passport is in date and, for certain countries, that it is valid for 6 months from the time of your visit. Find more information here.
Visas – Visitors from certain countries require a visa to enter Ireland. Click this link to find out if you need a visa to enter Ireland.
Travel Insurance – Do not travel to Ireland without travel insurance. Even if you think you don’t need it, you never know when an accident or flight cancellation might occur, and it is much better to have peace of mind than a headache of worry.
Travel document holder – A travel document holder or wallet is great for keeping passports, visas, and all your hotel and tour bookings in one place.
Credit/Debit cards – Make sure you have a valid credit card with sufficient credit available to cover your excess on your car insurance if you are hiring a car and deciding not to take out Super Collision Damage Waiver with the car hire company. Some will not accept third-party SCDW policies and will still look to cover the excess on a credit card. Your credit card will also be handy for those souvenir purchases. And remember your debit card for taking money out of an ATM.
Driving license and IDP – Don’t forget your driving license and International Driving Permit (if required by the car hire company). Each car hire company has different requirements regarding IDP’s. Those from the US, Canada, EU, the UK, and Australia generally do not need an IDP but check before you go to Ireland whether you need one or not.
Guide book – If you plan to be spontaneous, or have decided not to plan your entire itinerary, then an Ireland travel guide book will be a useful addition. I recommend the Lonely Planet Guide Book for Ireland. I have used Lonely Planet for years and have their 13th edition for Ireland and still refer to it for our trips.
Day Pack – As already mentioned, a waterproof day pack is another good thing to remember for your Ireland packing list for December. A waterproof one will ensure the personal items you carry with you remain dry, even if you get caught in a passing shower. The Outlander Lightweight Travel Daypack is an ideal day pack for Ireland.
Travel Towel – While not essential, it is a good idea to take a travel towel with you. Sometimes you just need a little bit more help than the towels provided by your hotel or accommodation. Or it can be left in the trunk of your hire car for days when you might want to visit a beach, or if you get caught out in the rain.
Travel Pillow – For flights, bus trips, train journeys, and long car rides, a travel pillow will make it more comfortable for travellers.
Reusable tote – Ireland has long given up giving out plastic bags for purchases. Nowadays, retailers provide paper bags. However, if you are shopping on a rainy day in Ireland, paper bags may disintegrate. So, to avoid this happening, take a reusable tote bag with you to pop your purchases into.
Electrical items and gadgets
When it comes to what to pack when traveling to Ireland in December, the next things to consider are your gadgets and electrical items. The following are suggestions.
Universal travel adapter – You cannot travel to Ireland without a universal travel adapter. Ensure you choose one that will accommodate your plugs and one that has some USB ports.
Read this article to discover what type of power plug they have in Ireland
Portable phone charger – If you plan on using your phone to take all your photos of December’s beautiful festive lights, ensure you have a portable phone charger with you, just in case your battery starts to run low. The best portable power bank on the market comes from Anker. These are our power banks of choice, and they have never let us down.
Camera batteries/memory cards – If you are bringing a separate camera with you to capture your pictures of Ireland’s autumn beauty, then ensure you pack enough batteries, chargers and memory cards for your camera. You don’t want to run out of power or memory just as you find the perfect spot to capture the golden light over the Cliffs of Moher or the Christmas trees and decorations in town centers!
Reusable water bottle – Pack a collapsible water bottle to refill when you can. These are far more eco-friendly than buying water bottles everywhere you go. And yes, tap water is safe to drink in Ireland.
Kindle Paperwhite – Instead of carrying around heavy physical books, opt for a Kindle Paperwhite instead. We never travel anywhere without ours, and you can even get digital versions of some guidebooks for Kindle.
What to pack for Ireland in December – Toiletries
Once you’ve packed your clothing, travel gear, and electronics for Ireland in December, it’s time to think about toiletries. It might not be the most exciting part of your list, but having the right items makes your winter trip much more comfortable.
If you’re travelling with hand luggage only, remember that liquids must be 100ml or less and fit inside a clear, resealable bag. Opt for travel-sized versions of your essentials to save space and make airport security a breeze.
Most hotels provide basic toiletries like soap and shampoo, but bringing your own favourites can make chilly winter evenings feel a bit more relaxing. And if you forget something, don’t worry, Irish pharmacies and supermarkets are easy to find and well stocked, so you can always pick up what you need once you arrive.
Remember to include these essential items to get started:
- Shampoo/conditioner
- Body wash
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash
- Deodorant
- Razor (check airline rules if you’re carrying it in hand luggage)
- Shaving gel
- Hairbrush
- Hair ties
- Lip balm
- Sunscreen and after-sun
- Women’s sanitary products
Be sure to pack any prescription medicines you take regularly, along with any painkillers or remedies you like to have on hand. It’s always wise to bring a little extra supply, especially during winter travel when weather or flight delays can sometimes affect schedules.
Pharmacies in Ireland won’t usually dispense prescription medication without a doctor’s note, so keep a copy of your prescription with you. It’s useful if you need to see a local doctor, as it clearly shows what medication you take and the correct dosage.
Over-the-counter medicines such as paracetamol (Tylenol), ibuprofen, and antihistamines are easy to find, but they’re sold in small amounts, and shops and chemists will limit how many boxes you can buy at once.
Finally, since December trips often mean cosy B&Bs or smaller hotel bathrooms, a compact hanging toiletry bag is a great way to keep everything tidy and within reach.
Things not to forget when packing for visiting Ireland in December
Sunglasses – December can bring beautifully clear days with bright winter light along the horizon; don’t forget to pack your sunglasses. You might not need them on cloudy or rainy days, but when the sun makes an appearance after sunrise or before sunset, you’ll regret not packing them!
Light gloves – December evenings can get quite cold, especially in coastal areas. A pair of decent gloves can be very welcome during evening strolls or outdoor events.
Sleep Eye Mask – Daylight in Ireland in December lasts for between 7 and 8.5 hours, so you may not need an eye mask unless you find it difficult to sleep without total darkness. If this is the case, bring a sleep mask.
Ear Plugs – Alongside the sleep mask, if you are a light sleeper and are staying in a city, bring a set of earplugs to ensure a good night’s sleep. I always use Mighty Earplugs when I am traveling.
Small umbrella – While you’ll have a waterproof jacket, a compact umbrella that fits in your day bag is practical for city explorations and sudden wintery showers.
Whether you’re exploring Ireland’s festive cities, visiting Christmas markets, or taking a scenic winter road trip, this packing guide for Ireland in December has everything you’ll need. Whatever the weather brings, rain, frost, or clear winter skies, you’ll be ready to enjoy every magical moment of your Irish adventure.
Before you go, you might be interested in these articles:
- Visiting Ireland in November
- Visiting Ireland in January
- A Quick Guide to Ireland in Winter
- Is Ireland Expensive?
- The Best Time to Visit Ireland
- The Best Reasons to Visit Ireland
- Your Complete Guide to Getting Around Ireland
- Essential Ireland Travel Tips
- What to Wear in Ireland
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Other Tips for Ireland
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO GET AROUND IRELAND?
If you are in a city, use the local public transportation system, especially in the Irish capital. Here is my guide to getting around Dublin.
If you’re going between cities or to smaller towns, you can usually take the train (I buy my tickets through Eurail or RailEurope).
In rural areas, train stations are rarer so you might want to rent a car, which is easy in Ireland (I use Rentalcars or Discovercars).
DO I NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR IRELAND?
It depends. If your travel insurance already covers you in Ireland, then you’re all set. If not, head for VisitorsCoverage for everything travel.
WILL MY PHONE WORK IN IRELAND? WHAT ABOUT MY CHARGER?
You can use your roaming plan in Ireland. If you don’t have one, you can do one of several things (just make sure you have an unlocked phone).
You can order a SIM card before you get to Ireland.
You can buy a SIM card from a shop in Ireland.
You can buy an e-SIM.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR IRELAND?
Here are a few essentials you should NOT leave home without:
Comfortable walking shoes. You’ll be on your feet a lot, and… cobblestones and mud.
Plugs are different in Ireland. So pack a universal travel adapter.
An anti-theft purse (this is the bag I use).
A good rain jacket (for summer) or coat (for winter) because rain is frequent in Ireland. It isn’t called the Emerald Isle for nothing!
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO BOOK A PLACE TO STAY IN IRELAND?
I use booking.com for my own travels around Ireland. Listings are extensive, including apartments, and cancellation policies generous.
