Planning a trip to Ireland in September? You’re likely wondering what to pack to be ready for mild autumn days, occasional showers, and everything in between. With shoulder season weather and fewer tourist crowds, it can feel exciting yet uncertain how to prepare.
The good news is that September is one of the best months to visit. With comfortable temperatures, stunning early autumn colors, and the perfect balance of pleasant days and light rain, you can experience Ireland at its charming shoulder season best, as I’ve learned firsthand over many Septembers.
In this guide, I’ll share exactly what to pack for Ireland in September, including clothing, toiletries, and essentials to make sure you’re ready for whatever the Irish autumn weather throws your way.
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What to Pack for Ireland in September
Many people visiting Ireland in September expect consistent mild weather, but the reality can be wonderfully varied. In my experience, the weather tends to be pleasant and comfortable, but with the occasional surprise shower.
Temperatures typically range from 10-17°C (50-63°F), and while you can enjoy crisp, clear days, you’ll also want to be ready for sudden shifts in weather. Even in early autumn, rain can roll in with little warning.
The secret to packing well for September in Ireland? Versatility. Opt for comfortable layers that are easy to add or remove and always include a reliable raincoat. With that in mind, let’s dive into my clothing and footwear recommendations to help you stay comfortable no matter what the Irish skies have planned.
What clothes to pack for Ireland in September
Clothing Essentials
Even though it’s shoulder season, layers and a mix of lightweight and warmer clothing is the way to pack for September in Ireland.
Last year, I went home to Ireland with my son for my niece’s christening, and I even got to wear a dress and sandals. Granted, I was cold as the day went on, but it stayed mild and dry, which was the main thing. For the rest of the week, I was firmly in jeans, long-sleeved tops and fleeces under my trusty winter coat. Just remember though, I am coming from a warmer climate.
But that will give you an idea of what you might expect if you are visiting Ireland in September.
Now, if you are coming from a country that is typically warmer than Ireland (like me), then two or three pairs of jeans or hiking trousers are advisable. You might pack a pair of shorts for the occasional warm day, but you may not need them as much as in summer.
Jeans/leggings – Given Ireland’s unpredictable September weather, some jeans or 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 pack more long-sleeved options for September compared to summer. One or two fancier tops for eveningwear are advisable if you are planning on a few nice dinners during festival season.
Fleece tops – Ideal for layering up, pack one or two 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 – September evenings can get quite cool, 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.
Shorts – You may get some pleasantly warm days to wear them, especially early in September. I just wouldn’t pack more than one pair per person.
Dresses – Ladies, you may want to pack a dress or two if you want. Evening dresses are perfect for September’s cultural events like the Dublin Fringe Festival or dining in a fancy restaurant. Pair them with some black flats or ankle boots.
Comfortable walking shoes – Essential for September when you’ll likely do more walking in comfortable temperatures. Choose waterproof options as autumn rain is common.
Cardigan – If you are going to be out and about in the evenings, a cardigan will go a long way in keeping the September evening chills off, especially during outdoor events.
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 September’s excellent festivals.
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 September’s changeable 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 15°C (59°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 September weather is generally milder than other months, Ireland can and does experience rain throughout the country during this shoulder season month.
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 those mild September days.
Waterproof footwear is crucial for those who will be exploring beyond the main cities. With September’s comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking and exploring, you’ll want waterproof shoes or hiking boots for countryside adventures.
The Irish countryside can get muddy when it rains, especially around historical sites that don’t have pavements to walk on. September visitors often do more outdoor activities due to the pleasant weather, 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 longer days you’ll likely enjoy in September’s mild weather.
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 September – Essentials
Now that your clothing packing list for Ireland in September is complete, let’s move on to other things to bring to Ireland in September. These include the travel basics, as well as any electronic items and gadgets that will come in handy during your shoulder season trip.
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 September. 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 September, 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 September’s beautiful autumn colors, 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 changing colors around the Ring of Kerry!
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 September – Toiletries
Once you’ve packed your clothes, travel gear, and electronics for Ireland in September, it’s time to turn your attention to toiletries. This part of your list might not be the most exciting, but it’s just as important for a smooth trip.
If you’re flying with hand luggage only, be sure to follow airline rules for liquids, all bottles should be 100ml or under and fit into a clear resealable bag. Travel-sized toiletries are your best friend here and will help you make the most of your space.
While you’ll find basic items like shampoo and soap in most hotels, having your own favourites can make your stay more comfortable. And don’t stress if you forget something, pharmacies and supermarkets are widely available, so you can easily restock while you’re here. Just bring what you need to get started and pick up anything else 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
Don’t forget to pack any prescription medication you take regularly, as well as any pain relief you rely on. It’s always a smart idea to bring a little extra, just in case your return is delayed, or you run into unexpected issues.
In Ireland, pharmacies generally won’t dispense prescription medication without a valid prescription from a doctor. To be safe, carry a copy of your current prescription with you, it can be helpful if you need medical care during your trip, as it gives local doctors a clear record of what you’re taking.
It’s also worth noting that over-the-counter medications like paracetamol, ibuprofen, and antihistamines are sold in limited quantities. And yes, they often won’t let two people buy double the allowance in one go (something my husband and I learned the hard way!).
Lastly, space can be tight in B&B bathrooms, so a compact hanging toiletry bag will help you stay organised without cluttering up the sink.
Things not to forget when packing for visiting Ireland in September
Sunscreen – Despite its mild reputation, Ireland can have sunny days in September. While the sun is less intense than summer, you’ll still need sunscreen for outdoor activities. Choose at least SPF 30 and consider a lip balm with sun protection too.
Sunglasses – September can bring beautifully clear days with bright autumn light, don’t forget to pack your sunglasses. You might not need them on cloudy or rainy days, but when the sun makes an appearance through the golden autumn light, you’ll regret not packing them!
Light gloves – September evenings can get quite cool, especially in coastal areas. A pair of lightweight gloves can be very welcome during evening strolls or outdoor events.
Sleep Eye Mask – Daylight in Ireland in September lasts for around 12-13 hours, but it’s noticeably shorter than summer. If you want a lie in or an early night, unless you can be sure of blackout blinds, 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 showers.
Whether you’re planning to wander through lively cities during festival season or hit the open road on an Irish road trip during the comfortable autumn weather, this packing guide for Ireland in September covers everything you’ll need. No matter what the weather brings, you’ll be ready for it all.
Before you go, you might be interested in these articles:
- Visiting Ireland in August
- Visiting Ireland in September
- A Quick Guide to Ireland in Summer
- A Quick Guide to Ireland in Fall
- 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.
