First Road Trip in Ireland: 15 Things you Need to Know

Driving in an unfamiliar place is never easy. You need to understand the local rules of the road, as well as the directions to make sure you don’t get lost. There are quite a few different things you should know about driving in Ireland, and we’ve put together a helpful list that’ll break down everything you need to know to make your trip go as smoothly as possible!

1. Car Insurance.

One of the most important things to get straight before your road trip is car insurance. Car rental companies often require you to have insurance through your credit card or a third party. Most of the road trippers usually buy insurance from their car rental at the airport, but that costs a lot compared to a policy from any specialist insurance company. You can check this site to compare car insurance quotes in Ireland and get the best quotes online.

2. Driving on the “Wrong” Side of the Road.

Like most of the United Kingdom and Europe, drivers in Ireland drive on the opposite side of the road, their steering wheel is on the right side of the car, and the street lights as well. It’ll take a little bit for you to get used to these changes, and it’ll be good to perhaps practice with a rental car before your road trip.

3. Automatic or Manual?

One other choice you’ll need to make when renting a vehicle is if you want to drive a manual or automatic car. It’s recommended to only rent a manual vehicle if you have experience in driving a manual car. Automatics can be more expensive, but are much easier for new drivers to handle.

4. Be Sure to Pack Food.

One thing that’s easy to forget is that you’re going to get hungry during your road trip! Consider stopping at a gas station or a big box grocery store and picking up simple snacks like chips or fruit. It’ll help you stay fueled for the long drive ahead!

5. Get your playlist ready!

One way to beat the boredom of a long drive is by playing some of your favorite music! Before traveling, make a playlist of some of your favorite albums and artists. Make sure the playlist is as long as the drive, so you don’t get stuck listening to the radio on the way there!

6. Find Time to Stretch.

On long car rides, you can begin to feel uncomfortable if you haven’t moved in a few hours. Try to stop every couple of hours to get out of the car and stress. It’ll lessen the toll the trip takes on your body, and will allow you more comfort as you travel!

7. Get to Know Your Vehicle.

Before driving, you need to know exactly how your vehicle works. If you’ve rented a car, go for a few short drives. Get the proper feel for the car itself, so that when you hit the road; you’ll know what you’re driving.

8. Get a Car with the Best Features.

Given that you’ll be riding in a new place, it’d be good to get a car with a few of the latest “essentials.” Spring for a vehicle which has both a GPS, and a USB port. The USB will allow you and your passengers to charge electronics on the go, and the GPS will help you navigate as you drive through Ireland.

9. Avoiding Tolls.

One important thing to keep track of is toll booths. Be sure to plan around any tolling stations you may drive past or into, and be sure to map them out to properly avoid them. Not only will it shave time off your road trip, it’ll help you save money too!

10. Expect the unexpected.

While your plan or road trip may be thought out to the T, be aware that you can still run into trouble while traveling on the road. Be sure to have an emergency contact back home in case something happens, and bring extra medication or money if an emergency situation arises during your travels.

11. No Driving Route is Perfect.

While you can plan where you’re going and how you’re going to get there, you need to keep in mind that no driving route is perfect; and one way or another you might run into some problems. You could face issues such as detours, poor driving, accidents, or you might even come across some extra attractions you didn’t initially plan for.

12. Know the Difference Between KPH and MPH.

Europe uses many different systems of measurement that aren’t used in places such as the United States and Canada. It is good to learn how to convert KPH to MPH while driving in Ireland, as it will help you calculate the overall time and speed of your trip much more easily.

13. Fees Aren’t the Same Everywhere.

Keep in mind that not all car rental or insurance agencies charge the same for insurance or fees. One Northern Ireland fee has been reported to only cost 30 pounds, while other car rental locations such as Enterprise can charge up to 150 pounds per fee! Do research to avoid spending more than you need.

14. Refundable Hotel Rates.

Let’s say for some reason or another, you need to change or rebook your hotel. Be sure to book with a hotel that offers refundable rates in the event of cancellation. It will help you save money, and avoid the frustration of any paperwork and debt you may incur if you cancel with a non-refundable hotel.

15. Road Signs.

Surprisingly, road signs are not as prevalent in Ireland as they would be in America or other parts of the world. This is due to most roads in Ireland being primarily open, or high ways; with little to no speed limits enforced. That being said, it is still important to drive with proper caution and maintain a sensible speed.

With all these tips, you’ll be ready to make the most of your trip to Ireland! Be sure to stay safe, and enjoy the wondrous sites of the countryside and all the beautiful views Ireland has to offer. Who knows, maybe you’ll find you love it so much you make it your new home!