Summer is upon us, and it has me thinking of our upcoming summer adventures! Once again, we’ll be traveling to Europe this summer for the boys to attend a Spanish immersion school in San Sebastián. But before we make our way to Spain, we’ll first be visiting the southwest area of Ireland. This will be our first time exploring Ireland, and I can’t wait! In fact, I’m so excited that I’ve already begun planning our outfits for the trip! Similar to the Europe packing list that I shared last year, today I’m going to share an Ireland packing list featuring all of the clothing, shoes, and accessories that I plan to pack for myself and the boys. All of the outfits are classic and neutral, making them easy to mix and match. Not only are they great for a travel wardrobe, but also for everyday summer looks!
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Ireland Summer Trip
Our upcoming family trip to Ireland will take place in the beginning of July. The lows at this time are typically in the 50s, while the highs are in the 60s. JB and I have been to Scotland and England during the summertime, but this will be our first time visiting Ireland. So, I’ve done a lot of asking around and chatting with friends who have visited the country.
What to Pack for Ireland
I’ve heard you can experience four seasons in one day. And I know it can get quite muddy and rainy, but there can also be plenty of sunshine. This makes it a little confusing when creating an Ireland packing list.
I’ve been told that the key for comfort will be to layer, layer, layer. My friend who has experience visiting Ireland in the summertime said specifically to pack thin layers. So what I’m packing is with this in mind.
Neutral Summer Travel Wardrobe
As I always do when packing for Europe, I will be bringing items that can easily mix and match with each other. I plan on being very casual during this portion of our trip because I think this makes it easier to rewear and recombine different pieces. For my Ireland packing list, I’m going with brown, navy, and neutral colors that blend well together. There will be one night for which we will all need to get dressed up, so I’ll be bringing along one dressier option as well.
Upcoming Trip to San Sebastián
After our time in Ireland, we will be off to San Sebastián, Spain. While it can get a little chilly here, for the most part, it will be much warmer. So I’m basically packing for two separate trips. However, there will be as much cross over as possible. Be sure to check back because I’ll be sharing that packing list soon!
Ireland Packing List for Women
Let’s start with everything I’ll be packing for myself. Of course, I’ll be bringing my travel favorites, my first aid kit, and my travel essentials for women. But, in this post, I’m going to skip all of the basics and get right to the fun part…clothes! I’m breaking it into seven main categories: shoes, outerwear, tops, bottoms, dresses, pajamas, and accessories.
Shoes
First up, shoes. With the potential mixed weather we might experience, it was a bit tricky to plan for shoes. But I am going to stick to three pairs of shoes for myself – a sneaker, a ballet flat, and a boot.
1. Waterproof Sneakers/Boots
While I want to be prepared for rain, we will be doing some hiking, and I don’t want to deal with huge Wellies. Therefore, I plan to bring these waterproof tennis shoes. Who knows, maybe I’ll be eating my words, and you’ll see me pop into a store to get some! But I feel more confident in this choice knowing that about 90% of those I polled on IG said I do not need rain boots in July. They assured me that waterproof sneakers will be fine. Additionally, quite a few recommended this waterproof shoe spray. You can put it on tennis shoes that you already own to make them waterproof! One person did note that I’ll want to pack some thin wool socks that wick moisture.
However, if you’re looking for a rain boot, a reader wrote in and said these $25 Target rain boots are incredibly comfortable. Of course, the classic Hunter Boots work great too, and I do love the look of them. Oh, and these Barbour ones are the perfect shade of green for mixing and matching.
If I was just going to Ireland, I’d probably go the boot route. I also just found out that one of our hotels offers Barbour Wellies, if we need them! So that solidified me not bringing a pair of rain boots.
2. Ballet Flats
I’m packing a pair of ballet flats for dinners out or for Tea inside Dromoland Castle! I rarely ever wear heels on vacation, so I don’t think I’m packing any for this trip.
3. Suede Boots
I have an old waterproof Chelsea boot that I’ll bring as well. I think they will look nicer than tennis shoes, if I need something a bit dressier. This waterproof Chelsea boot is similar. Many people rave about Blundstone boots too.
Outerwear
Another category on my Ireland packing list that I put a lot of thought into was outerwear. With the various weather possibilities in a single day, I want to be prepared for all situations, without overpacking. Once again, this was tricky! Here’s what I plan to bring.
1. Raincoat
Most people I talked to said the Ireland summer rain is mostly a fine mist, so a good lightweight rain coat is a must. They also recommended ditching the umbrella, noting that hotels will have them if we need them.
I find raincoats hard to shop for, as most aren’t super flattering. However, these are a few that I’ve been eyeing:
2. Quilted Jacket
Based solely off of my Barbour collection, it may look like I’ve been planning this trip forever. I love a good quilted jacket, and I think they are always in style. Plus, they last forever – I still own every one I’ve purchased over the years. I think a Barbour Jacket is always a good idea for any wardrobe.
Right now, I’m torn between packing this cute Tuckernuck quilted jacket or this Barbour one. I wore the Barbour one all around Europe in 2022 – from Lisbon, to Spain, to London!
3. Lady Jacket
I think a classic lady jacket is a nice way to elevate anything you are wearing – from a dress to jeans. This blue tweed lady jacket is definitely on my Ireland packing list. It was a gift from Veronica Beard, and is such a timeless piece. I love this affordable lady jacket and this one too.
4. Timeless Trench
A timeless trench coat is a classic style staple piece! I plan to bring this green trench coat, which was a gift from Veronica Beard last year. It’s such a great coat – I will have it forever! For an affordable option, I love this $140 classic trench. It has a great cinched waist and is water repellant.
5. Sweaters
I plan on bringing three sweaters. First, my Le Lion cardigan, which is so special to me. The one I have is a great little puff sleeve style in green. But unfortunately, it’s no longer available in this shade. Similarly, I love this floral embroidered cardigan from Boden so much. It’s a great look for less option! And this navy one is always a classic.
Next up, I’m packing a crewneck cashmere sweater. This is great to drape over your shoulders or wear on its own.
Lastly, I’ll bring a lady jacket sweater. This was on my Europe packing list last year, and I’m bringing it again this year. It was great to mix and match, and it elevated every look.
Tops
I’ve narrowed it down to five tops to mix and match. While this might seem like too few options for an Ireland packing list, I’m planning to put together lots of combinations with different bottoms, sweaters, etc. so that the outfits aren’t repetitive.
1. Classic Stripes
I have packed my striped Saint James shirt for every European adventure I’ve gone on for years. A navy and white stripe is a great classic style basic to bring along!
2. Simple White Tee
A simple white tee is another great basic to build on. I have sung the Allie Tee’s praises for years. I’ll pack my fave $15 tee too.
3. Sweater-Polo
I’ll be bringing a cashmere collared short sleeve sweater, which is a great elevated basic. Love all of the different color options in this one.
4. Linen Vest
I tried on this beautiful linen vest and the matching skirt at Dillards last weekend, and I instantly fell in love. The fit is great, and there are so many different ways I can wear each piece both together and apart. So both items are coming with me to Ireland!
5. Simple Layering Tank
I’m bringing his simple layering tank, which is under $20 and will pair with everything.
Bottoms
The great thing about choosing which bottoms to add to my Ireland packing list is that a few pairs can go a long way. I’ve already mentioned the linen blend skirt that I’ll be bringing. Here are a few others.
1. Classic Denim
Bringing a classic pair of denim is a no brainer. Love that I can wear these high-rise jeans dressed up or dressed down.
2. White Denim
Love the style and fit of these natural colored jeans. They are high-rise and slim at the top with a subtle flare at the bottom.
Dresses
While I plan to keep it very casual for this trip, I do love wearing a casual dress when the weather allows. I also like to pack a nicer option for dinners out.
1. Neutral Maxi
This Sofia Grainge x Striped and Solid off-white maxi dress will be coming with me. It’s a great one that can be dressed up or down.
2. Timeless Silhouette
This Wells dress from Staud is my all-time favorite silhouette. It’s also one that can be worn from daytime to nighttime. I wore it last year with the striped lady jacket cardigan on our trip to Paris. It tends to sell quickly, so you can check here and here if you don’t see your size.
Other Clothing
There are two other clothing categories that I never forget to pack – activewear and pajamas!
1. Activewear
I’m packing these flattering leggings and the matching sports bra from Spanx for hiking. I have been loving their “booty boost” leggings for years, and just bought some in this green shade. I’ll throw a button-up or this active tank on top.
2. Pajamas
I love packing a bundle pj set from LAKE for trips. Shorts are good if you’re running a little warmer at night, and pants are perfect when you want to cozy up.
Accessories
Never forget to pack accessories! Not only do they complete an outfit, but they provide an easy way to mix-and-match different pieces.
1. Jewelry
Jewelry is such an easy way to dress up and switch up basics. Plus, it is lightweight, so it’s easy to pack a few options. I’ll bring a few different Susan Shaw earrings and necklaces. I also plan to pack this necklace from Hart that I love and wear so often.
2. Tote Bag
My Longchamp tote bag is what I use as my personal item when flying. I also use a few different bags inside of it, in order to keep everything organized. I love the ample size.
3. Mini Bag
This Paris64 mini tote was a gift, and I love it so much! I’ve been using it for my everyday handbag for a few weeks. The quality is great, and it has a removable strap, so it can become a crossbody during the day, or a cute little evening purse at night.
Ireland Packing List for Boys
Now onto the boys! Similar to what I’m packing for myself, I’m leaning in to a blue, green, and neutral color scheme for our boys. This will make it easy to mix and match. And once again, I’m focusing on all of the layers!
Boys’ Shoes
I’m hoping to get by with just two pairs of shoes for the boys – sneakers and waterproof boots.
1. Waterproof Kids' Boots
We’re trying out these kids’ duck boots for a waterproof option. I’ve heard they are comfortable, so I’m hoping this is true. I plan to make the boys walk around and play in them before we go to break them in and ensure they are comfortable!
2. Sneakers
I also plan to pack the boys a good pair of sneakers. I’m either going to purchase a waterproof pair or make a pair they already own waterproof by using with this spray.
Boys’ Outerwear
Compared to my own outerwear on the Ireland packing list, the boys is very simple. Honestly, this is a trend for all categories. Boys are just a bit easier to pack for!
1. Kids' Raincoat
A good raincoat is a must for everyone during this trip, so I’ve searched around for some cute kids’ options. This boy’s raincoat is under $40 with a fun colorblock design. This one is expensive, but it’s Barbour, so it can be passed down. This one is under $40 too, and such a classic trench fit. And this $30 one from Amazon is the prettiest shade of green.
2. Boys' Quilted Coat
Similarly, there are quite a few good options for quilted coats available for kids right now. We will be packing these quilted boys’ coats that the boys have from the Beaufort Bonnet Company. The Marmots are a great brand that is available on Amazon, and these puffers pack down well for travel. This hooded Boden one would be nice for windy days. And if you want a lightweight jacket option, this one is such a pretty color and a great price point.
Boys’ Tops
For the boys’ tops, I plan to keep it pretty minimal with a combination of sleeve lengths, casual and dressy options, and sweaters.
1. Boys' Shirts
My boys have this adorable collared shirt in all of the color options. The fact that they don’t break the bank, they are cute, and they are comfortable (according to my boys) make them a win-win. I also love this striped top from Zara, this shirt from Mango, and this one from A&F kids.
2. Long Sleeve Shirts
I plan to pack a few long sleeve shirt options like this $18 one and this one (on sale!)
3. Boys' Sweaters
My Ireland packing list also includes a few sweaters for the boys. When it comes to kids’ sweaters, I always buy a size up so they last longer. I love this one from Peter Millar. This is another basic sweater that mixes and matches well. This rollneck sweater is also such a classic.
Boys’ Bottoms
My boys don’t like denim, which actually makes packing a bit easier. For bottoms, I will stick to packing pull-on pants and tech pants. I’m also adding our favorite pajamas in this section!
1. Boys' Pants
I buy these Boden pull-on pants in a thicker material and in a linen every year. I’m also trying out these Zara pants this year.
2. Boys' Performance Pants
Since my kids don’t love denim, I opt for Tech pants from Southern Tide. These are always a go-to for us.
3. Boys' Pajamas
When it comes to pajamas, I always pack our Petite Plume pjs and the Lila and Hayes hangout pants for the boys.
The Ultimate Ireland Packing List
Whether you’re planning a trip to Ireland or another European country, or you’re just looking for classic style inspiration, I hope this capsule wardrobe helps give you some outfit ideas. For additional packing list and tips, be sure to check out my favorite travel essentials for women, my personal travel tips, my Europe packing list, and the travel essentials I never leave without.
Shop the Women's Packing List
Shop the Boy's Packing List
