You don’t have to look far to find help when planning a trip to Ireland.
Every Tom, Dick, and Patrick will give you their two cents worth on when, where, and what to do in Ireland.
But what about the things you aren’t supposed to do in Ireland?
The no – no’s.
The common mistakes that people (including me) make when planning a trip to Ireland?
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This backward Ireland tips guide is to help stop you making some of the mistakes that we have made on our past trips to Ireland and to help ease you into the Irish culture nice and gently!
Planning a Trip To Ireland. 20 Common Mistakes To Avoid
Are you ready to learn about the things NOT to do when planning a trip to Ireland?
Ireland is right up there on my list of unique and underrated destinations in the world and it isn’t until you go for yourself you will understand why.
We have visited Ireland both with our kids and with friends numerous times. It is true what people say about Ireland; it is the balm of the soul. I love the place and if this is your first trip to Ireland I know you will love it too.
I can talk for hours about this beautiful country and its people and I can also give you lots of tips for travel in Ireland that will tell you everything there is to know about the country.
But this time I’m not here to go easy on you. Sorry.
It’s time to get real about Ireland and what its people expect from you.
Nobody likes to look like a fec*kin eejit in front to of others, so remember this talk when you begin your planning trip to Ireland and you will travel around Ireland feeling secretly smug and confident.
And don’t forget to check out our awesome international checklist for things to do and take before a big trip!
#1 Smoking
If you smoke, best bring a coat to Ireland. You’ll be outside – alot.
If you are a smoker about to visit Ireland know that you will be standing outside on the pavement – a lot.
In 2004, Ireland became the first country in the world to ban smoking in the workplace, along with no smoking in bars, restaurants, enclosed public places, education facilities, healthcare facilities and on public transport.
However, smoking is still permitted in prison, so if you find yourself in a spot of bother while in Ireland, rest assured that you can still have a fag in jail.
#2 Moaning About The Weather
Don’t bother moaning about the weather just come prepared for it!
The weather. It’s changeable. If you want lots of warm sunshine then I suggest you visit California.
Ireland is known to have four seasons in one day so be prepared for it!
You can read my post on what to pack for Ireland or if you need some quick tips then I suggest you did as we did and travel with a stylish and lightweight waterproof poncho. They are perfect for when you get caught out unawares
Do not moan about the weather. Leave that to the English (we do it better than anyone). Whinging doesn’t change the fact that it’s pouring down.
Just make sure you add a poncho and an umbrella to your vacation checklist and you’ll be all set.
Remember, the reason Ireland is called the Emerald Isle is because of its forty shades of green – all made possible by the lovely weather variations!
#3 Forgetting Your Bug Spray
So you came to Ireland instead of California – fabulous! Remember though; just because Ireland has rain and is green and lovely it doesn’t mean that there aren’t lots bugs that bite!
We found around the cliffs of Moher to be especially buggy, so bring a repellant that works (we only ever use this repellent and it worked a treat in Ireland.
#4 Being Offended By Swearing
Don’t be offended by how much the Irish folk swear; it’s who they are and what they do. It’s what makes them special. When I first visited I’ll admit, I was shocked. But then again I am an English prude.
Know that the word fecking isn’t meant as the same thing as our ‘f” word so try not to visibly flinch when you hear it said about ten thousand times a day.
#5 Not Trying The Fish ‘n’ Chips
The fish and chips have to be tasted to be believed in Ireland. Lots of vinegar and lemon is a must.
I wasn’t going to include this photo but I think you need reminding NOT to miss trying the Irish fish and chips!
Until I visited Ireland with my kids I didn’t know just how delicious the fish and chips were.
Don’t come to Ireland and expect to be on a diet. No way. The food is far too good. Order the fish, chips with tartar sauce and eat them with your fingers. Delicious.
#6 Failing To Shake Hands
It is common practice when you meet a local Irish person to shake hands (a more common practice amongst men it seems).
Offer a nice firm handshake in return (no one like a willy limp handshake after all) and know that you should expect to shake hands again once you depart. It will be seen as bad manners if you stick your hands in our pocket and walk away from the conversation.
#7 Not Trying The Guinness
You may not be a Guinness drinker but the health benefits far out way the irony taste! Get it down you!
There is no way that you can go to Ireland and miss out on the opportunity to savour this iron-rich brew.
Even if you are not a beer drinker.
Having doubts? What if I told you that Guinness not only has high iron content but helps make your bones stronger, improves your memory and helps with weight management?
There you go.
You’ll be a skinny genius after a couple of pints.
#8 Ignoring The Possibility Of Housesitting
Do not overlook the possibility of housesitting in Ireland. it is a fabulous way to experience the country like a local
We have just spent three months house sitting around Europe with our two kids. we estimated that we saved ourselves roughly ten thousand dollars on accommodation.
On our last visit to Ireland, our family spent three weeks house sitting in this gorgeous farmhouse outside Kilkenny and it was truly fabulous.
House sitting is the perfect way to experience a country properly (and for free). I urge you to look into it if you haven’t already. It is the best ( I have included a screenshot from today’s email from housesitters looking for a couple for a flat in Dublin).
This is a screenshot from my phone this morning. Homeowners are always looking for Housesitters in Ireland!
Click here to learn how you can change the way you travel with housesitting.
#9 Leaving A Tip
In restaurants and bars in Ireland, it is not obligatory to tip (although you’ll get a friendly Irish smile if you leave 10%)
Unlike America, it is not obligatory to tip in Ireland, in saying that, if you have received good service then 10% is always appreciated.
If you are dining with a party of 6 people then the service charge will probably be included in the bill. Check before you go and put down any extra.
Know that when you buy a drink in a pub in Ireland it is not common practice to tip the bartender, although if the same person has been pouring your drinks all night then a friendly “and one for yourself” (meaning ‘take the price of a drink and put it into your tip jar)’ will never be refused.
#10 Talking About Sensitive Issues
Use your brain. There are certain things that Irish people don’t like to discuss. Choose your topic and your audience wisely.
#11 Confusing The Word Sorry
This is one of my favourites and applies mainly to our American friends.
When you are talking to an Irish person and they don’t hear what you say or they misunderstand you, they will say “sorry?” as a question.
Don’t confuse this for meaning they have done something wrong and they are apologising. They’re not. It’s simply their way of saying “what did ya say?”
Or
“say it again my love, I didn’t quite catch that”
Or
“Huh?”
Sorry. The Irish say it a lot. It’s not always an apology.
#12 Calling Musicians ‘Buskers’
I’m sharing this Ireland travel tip as it was a mistake I made when I was in Ireland and I was very embarrassed when I was pulled up on it. So, I thought I’d share – in case you do the same thing.
I was in an Irish pub and there were two fabulous guys playing instruments and entertaining the crowd. After they had finished I approached them and gushed: “Wow! That was fabulous! I have never heard such talented buskers!’
You could have heard a pin drop in that pub. Seriously.
As he took a swig of his Guinness, one of the players looked at me straight in the eye and said (kindly, I might add) “madam. We are NOT buskers. We are musicians”
That was me told. Lesson learned.
Here is a little video we made of those very musicians playing in that pub.
You see me at the end (BEFORE I made myself look like a fool!)
#13 Only Staying Around Dublin
Unless you have just a weekend in Ireland, there is so much more to see in Ireland than Dublin.
Yes, Dublin is a beautiful city, but there are far less touristy places to see while you are in Ireland. Personally, I think Kilkenny is far nicer than Dublin.
Get out and explore the other parts of Ireland – you won’t regret it.
There is so much more to Ireland than just Dublin. If you have more than three days get out into the countryside and breathe the Irish air.
#14 Not Getting The Best Travel Insurance
I’m not here to tell you about insurance, but I included this tip simply because when we hired a car in Ireland we saved ourselves hundreds of dollars because we had excellent travel insurance.
Make sure you have excellent Ireland travel insurance.
We traveled the world for a year with our kids and as you can imagine, my husband did stacks of research on which was the best insurance policy. Take me word for it; this company cannot be beaten.
Whichever insurance you have, make sure that car hire excess is included so that you don’t wind up paying for expensive extra charges when in Ireland.
# 15 Trying To See Too Much
If you only have a week or ten days in Ireland try your hardest not to cram too much in.
We have all done it. Made an itinerary, stuck to it rigidly and then returned home feeling as though we needed another holiday to get over it.
Pick your excursions carefully and use your time wisely. Only use reputable tour companies that can offer you the maximum experience for the cost.
This gorgeous Cliffs of Moher tour includes a guided walk and an Irish pub lunch meaning that you get to see a famous site and also experience a local part of Ireland. Click here for details on the Cliffs of Moher tour.
Remember, Ireland isn’t going anywhere.
Best to spend quality time in three or four locations than it is to zip around the country and say you have ‘done’ Ireland.
The Cliffs Of Moher are stunning and should not be missed but pick your excursions wisely.
#16 Not Seeing Enough
The opposite of what I am saying above. This is an Irish post. I’m allowed to do things differently.
Ireland is one of those places that you HAVE to make the most of. Put the map down and get out there and do it!
And don’t use money as an excuse not to see lots of things in the capital.
If you plan on staying in Dublin then you can get The Dublin Pass. Am I an affiliate for them? You bet I am – they saved us a fortune when we stayed in Dublin.
We bought a 3-day pass and I tell everyone I meet to do the same. Here’s why.
Although the initial outlay for the pass may seem a bit pricey you will not (I promise you; I tried) find a better way to save money and see the things worth seeing.
And after you have ‘done’ the Dublin experience, hit the Irish roads!
Don’t be too scared to explore. While it is true that the little town down the road might not be mentioned in any of the guide books, you might just arrive and discover the best little local pub in Ireland.
The beauty of Ireland is its sense of adventure and if you are to really enjoy this country as it is meant to be enjoyed then get your brave pants on and get off the beaten track.
#17 Not Buying A Round In A Bar
Don’t think about leaving the pub until you have bought ‘a round’ in Ireland or you might find yourself friendless.
If you make friends in Ireland and are asked to go to the pub for a drink know about ‘the round’ system.
The group of friends gather in the bar and the first person will ask everyone ‘what are you having?” (meaning what do you want to drink?). They will then go to the bar, order and pay for everyone’s drinks.
This does not mean that that person is rich and kind and is offereing to cough up for everyone’s drinks for the whole evening, no, they were simply the first in to buy ‘ a round’.
When everyone has finished their drink the ’round’ now moves to the next person in the group who goes to the bar and pays for everyone’s drink. And so the round continues until you are all either off your face or penniless.
Either way, don’t leave before you have bought a round or you might find yourself friendless for the rest of the trip.
#18 Not Hiring A Car
Yes, the roads are narrow but they are also idyllic and reasonably quiet. Don’t miss out on hiring a car when planning a trip to Ireland
I have heard so many people advise against hiring a car in Ireland because the roads are so narrow and twisty and it is dangerous.
Yes, the roads are narrow but please don’t let this put you off or you will miss out on some of the best places in Ireland to explore.
Keep the size of your hire car to a minimum, that way it won’t feel so intimidating when you come to parallel park in narrow streets!
We only ever use this company for car hire in Ireland. They found us the best price and were super easy to deal with.
Click here to see how you can save money on car hire in Ireland.
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#19 Ignoring Road Manners
Drivers in Ireland (especially the countryside) are very courteous to horse riders. If the roads are narrow pull in and let the other person pass.
Remember these tips for driving in Ireland and you will be ok.
Drivers in Ireland are generally courteous and it is common practice (especially in rural Ireland) if another car is coming towards you (and the road is too narrow for both of you) for one of you to pull into a farm gate entrance or a layby (a passing place on the road).
The Irish will say thank you for this kind gesture by waving one finger from the steering wheel or flashing their lights.
I can testify that horse riders in the countryside of Ireland are treated with a great deal of respect and kindness. Cars slow down almost to a stopping point when they see horse riders and drive super slowly until the horses have passed safely. Please make sure you do the same.
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# 20 Forgetting To Drive On The Left
I’m sure you know this already but in Ireland, they drive on the left. It’s easy to get confused – especially on the countryside narrow roads where there is only room for one car anyway! Stay slow, keep left and you’ll be fine!
Do you love to travel but just wish someone would be straight up with you about what to expect? Join me!
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So, that’s it. You are done. 20 big fat common mistakes that people usually make when planning a trip to Ireland. What did you think? Have you been to Ireland and made any of these mistakes yourself? I would love you to comment below or leave me a message so that we can continue to prevent other people from looking like eejits in Ireland – and don’t forget! If you enjoyed this post then please share it with someone else who might love it too!
Wonderful advice. Ireland is on my bucket list. I will make it there in the next couple of years. Thank you for the tips.
Thank you Maggie – and what a gorgeous name (I might just have to steal it!)
I agree with most…but as far as buying a round for the far…?? It would cost a freaking fortune and I’d have been in dire straights after the first time…there was more then a dozen people!
Haha! TRUE! Iv’e never had more than three friends so I wouldn’t know about that!
I think one might add – don’t expect to enjoy outside seating anywhere if you’re NOT a smoker. Be prepared to be overwhelmed by smokers outside every pub. In the US we enjoy sitting outside and enjoying a drink. In Ireland it’s all but impossible if you’re bothered by smoke. They need a huge anti smoking campaign. Loved Ireland-hated the constant smoke.
Good point Vicki! Thanks for the input!
Great advice and humour Liz and Sonny s video was lovely xx Vera s here on 29th 😉
Fabulous! Say hello to her Marilynn and a big hug to you too X
We visited Ireland a couple of years ago and loved it! We’re planning a return trip next year. Your tips are great, but would add to make time to talk to the Irish. Some of our best memories of that trip was just spending time with the locals, sharing a pint or coffee and listening to their stories. They love to talk about their lives, village, and country. The Irish are truly some of the friendliest people we’ve met in our many travels.
Absolutely! I second that! The Irish people were some of the most down to earth and friendliest people we met while traveling! Thanks for your comment Sylvia 🙂
Excellent tips! I’ll add a couple more, if you like.
On my first trip to Ireland, I had breakfast near a table of people who were not happy that skim milk, fat free half and half, and turkey sausage were not available as choices.
As you said, “Don’t come to Ireland and expect to be on a diet.” Part of the traveling experience is using your sense of taste, don’t miss out!
On that same trip, and in fact in the same hotel, I had the pleasure of trying a soup I had never before encountered. It was a potato, leek, and coconut milk soup that simply took my breath away. I was so in awe of the combination of flavours, I asked the waitress/publican to see if the chef would share his recipe with me. Out of the kitchens came a lovely man beeming ear to ear and friendly as anyone I ever met. He was so tickled that I enjoyed his creation and happily shared his recipe with me.
So don’t be afraid to fall in love with food, don’t be afraid to ask for a recipe, but if the chef says no, don’t be offended either; he or she might be too busy, or it might be a signature dish with family secrets. Either way, asking for a recipe is a wonderful way to compliment a chef, and it’s important to be gracious with either response.
The other traveling tip I have for Ireland, is don’t be in a hurry to get there; wherever your there is. Take your time, enjoy the views, it’s really why you’re visiting Ireland in the first place, so make it your first priority. If you find yourself stuck in an Irish traffic jam, surrounded by sheep or cows, take a few pictures to show friends what fun it is. Don’t worry the livestock is polite, they won’t scratch your vehicle, but you might want to be careful not to kick up any piles as you leave.
Thank you so much, Kimberly! This is wonderful advice and thank you for sharing! :))
I actually just got back from Ireland and the one thing I will comment on is the smoking. There is smoking literally everywhere. While it is banned inside, in nice weather, the doors and windows are all open to let in the air (due to no air conditioning) and the smoke is an ever present annoyance. To be quite honest, I was shocked at how many people did smoke!! It seemed to be far more common than here in America……where I live anyway.
The rest is so true. This is a beautiful country that is so underrated. The people are some of the best I’ve ever met and the countryside is STUNNING. There is simply too much to see in just one visit.
Thank you Kari, yes, I noticed that too. it was actually worse in England though… Coming from NZ where it seems not that many people smoke, it was as if everyone was at it! It’s funny, growing up in the 70’s it was weird to NOT see someone smoking so I don’t know why it was such a big shock to me!
I’m leaving for my first trip to Ireland in 2 weeks…….can’t wait! thanks for the tips, esp. the one about swearing…ha, will bug spray be still needed in september? maybe i will buy some there, i live in Wisconsin, i’m used to it, we have lots of flying bugs this time of year here.
Have a wonderful time Sara! Late summer, early autumn can still see mozzies – especially around marshy areas. September is a gorgeous time to visit – have fun and let me know what the bug situation was like! x
We went to Ireland for the first time in June. It was such a lovely place and balm for the soul is so true! One little thing I wish I’d known before is how laid back the waitstaff is almost everywhere. In the US, they will pop by when you’ve said no more to refills and ask if you’re ready for the check. They wait a very long time in Ireland and a few times we finally asked. They are just that laid back and unconcerned with moving you along. We enjoyed sitting and visiting with our adult kids but we might have moved along sooner a few meals had we known it’s not rude to ask for the check. 🙂 I hope we don’t wait too long to visit again!
Hi Denise,
Yes, you’re right – the Irish are super laid back (very similar to New Zealand) Sounds as though you had a lovely time! Thanks for sharing with me 🙂
This was a great post and definitely helpful! If you ever get the chance to visit us here in the American Southeast, a lot of these same rules apply (like hand-shaking and making friends with strangers and saying ‘sorry’ meaning ‘please repeat that’)! I didn’t realize that! Knowing some of these things make a trip abroad seem a lot less intimidating! Thank you!
Thank you, Caitlyn! I think you will feel quite at home in Ireland:))