Based on my former students’ and my travel experiences during study abroad courses along with recommendations from CCSA and from sites about traveling in Ireland, I’ve put together a list for you as you prepare for our adventures.
Keep in mind that whatever you pack, you’ll have to carry! Also, most airlines charge a fee if a bag is over 50 pounds, and they generally allow one checked bag per person. Pack economically: you don’t need to bring fourteen outfits; you’ll have access to coin-operated laundry machines during our first nine days. Be sure to pack clothing that doesn’t take a long time to dry (e.g., jeans). You’ll want to leave some room in your bag for souvenirs! Following are my recommendations on packing for two weeks in Ireland.
Clothing
- 3 short-sleeve and/or sleeveless tops
- 1-2 long-sleeved tops or one hoodie
- 3-4 pants, shorts, and/or skirts (preferably not denim)
- Two summer dresses
- One light rain jacket
- Tank tops for layering
- 5-6 pairs of wicking socks
- 10 pairs of underwear
- 3-4 bras
- 3-4 versatile sleep sets (please wear clothing in the shared spaces!)
Shoes
- Comfortable sandals for sightseeing
- NOT new ones. If you buy a new pair in May, wear them several hours a day before our departure so that they will adjust to your feet.
- NO flip-flops. They scream “I’m an American!” and can easily fall off your feet on uneven walkways.
- NO heels. They will break on cobblestone streets and sidewalks, and they’re just not practical in most of the places we’ll be going.
- Ballet flats for a night out
- Hiking boots for potentially rugged terrain (wear these on the plane to save space in luggage; loosen the laces while we’re in flight).
- Note: sneakers or athletic shoes are okay, but they will get wet. We all know what happens to gym shoes that get wet. Stinky! Wet shoes can also lead quickly to blisters.
Accessories
- A cross-body purse or fanny pack
- A bookbag with room for a laptop
- At least one TSA-approved lock for your luggage
- At least one universal adapter/converter that can charge your devices
- A camera (if you aren’t satisfied with your phone camera)
- NO hair dryers or straighteners.
Personal care items
- 2-3 COVID tests (BINAX recommended)
- A thermometer
- Hand sanitizer
- Masks
- Polysporin or Neosporin
- Band aids
- Blister pads
- Moleskin padding (blister prevention)
- Pads/tampons (you might not find your preferred brand and style)
- Condoms (same as above)
- Enough prescription meds to last two weeks (preferably in original bottles)
- Sunscreen with high SPF
- Aloe vera gel/sunburn relief
- Your preferred brand of aspirin/OTC pain reliever
- Random OTC things: Antacids, throat lozenges, eye drops, diarrhea meds, nausea meds, lip balm, insect sting relief, bug spray, antihistamines.
If you’re in doubt about bringing anything specific, please let me know, and I’ll help you decide.
An American Feminist Teacher 