Ireland Golf Trip Packing List and Travel Guide

On an Ireland golf trip, the forecast is best treated as a suggestion and waterproofs as part of the uniform. Bring two pairs of waterproof golf shoes, warm layers, wet-weather gloves, sun protection and more golf balls than you think you will need. Pack a travel adapter for Ireland's three-pin sockets, keep some local cash for caddies and have your travel insurance details and travel documents close at hand.

This guide covers the other practical details worth knowing before you travel, from caddies and golf carts to dress codes, payments, entry requirements and getting around.
 

If you travel with Carr Golf

Once your itinerary is booked, our dedicated Client Experience Team coordinates the detailed preparation with golf clubs, hotels, driver-guides and other partners. They also handle requests for caddies, golf carts and rental clubs where required.

Before departure, you receive a final itinerary and travel pack with timings, meeting points and contact details. The team remains your point of contact before and during the trip, giving you one place for updates and support.
 

What to pack for an Ireland golf trip

Irish weather can change quickly, even in summer. Pack for wind, rain and mild sunshine.

•  Two pairs of comfortable waterproof golf shoes

•  Waterproof jacket and trousers, a warm hat, sweaters or other warm layers

•  Dry, warm and wet-weather gloves, plus a small towel

•  Suncream and sunglasses

•  Plenty of golf balls for links rough

•  Passport, medication, travel documents, a waterproof layer and one golf outfit in your hand luggage
 

Weather and course conditions in Ireland

The weather is what makes links golf so unpredictable, which is part of it's appeal. Golf normally continues in rain, so keep your waterproofs close even when the morning is clear. If the weather affects play, the golf club will set out the next steps and our team will keep Carr Golf guests informed.

Caddies and golf carts in Ireland

Many traditional Irish links are designed to be walked. Caddie requests should be made in advance because availability can be limited. Fees are normally paid directly in cash using the local currency. As a general guide, allow at least €40 per bag for gratuity, unless advised otherwise.

Golf carts, often called buggies in Ireland, are not widely available and should also be requested early. Some clubs reserve them for golfers with a medical need and may require a medical certificate. The Carr Golf’s Client Experience Team can coordinate any medical or mobility requirements.
 

Travel insurance for your Ireland golf trip

Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Check that your policy covers overseas medical treatment, cancellation, delays, baggage, golf equipment and the activities planned for your trip.

Flying with golf clubs

If you check your golf bag with the airline, use a strong travel cover, label it inside and outside, and confirm the sporting-baggage allowance.

You can also send clubs ahead through Ship Sticks. Agree the delivery address and collection timing with the shipping provider. Rental clubs must be requested in advance; provide your handedness and any other requirements.
 

Golf club dress codes in Ireland

Dress codes differ by club. A collared golf shirt with tailored trousers or shorts is a reliable starting point. Avoid denim, sportswear, vests, trainers or casual sneakers. Golf attire may be restricted in formal clubhouse areas, so use the locker room to change and remove golf shoes and headwear unless advised otherwise.
 

Clubhouse and practice facilities

Most clubs offer food and bar service, a pro shop and a putting green. Some also have a driving range, although this is not available at every traditional links course. Allow around five hours for the round, plus time to arrive, change and warm up.
 

Currency, cards and cash in Ireland

The Republic of Ireland uses the euro and Northern Ireland uses pound sterling. Visa, Mastercard and American Express are widely accepted. ATMs are readily available, but your bank or the machine operator may charge a fee. Keep local cash for caddies and smaller purchases.
 

Tipping and gratuities in Ireland

Suggested driver gratuities in Ireland are calculated per person, per day:

Driver gratuity per person per day

2 people - €40

4 people - €20-€25

8 people €15-€20

12-16 people €10-€15

A tip of 10 to 15 per cent is common in restaurants when service is not already included.
 

Passports, visas and travel authorisations

Entry requirements depend on your passport and every country on your route. Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom, so an ETA or visa may be required even when you arrive through Dublin and travel north by road. Check the latest official guidance, including the rules for flight connections.

If your trip includes Northern Ireland or a UK flight connection that requires you to pass through border control, read our UK ETA guidance for your golf trip.
 

Plug adapters and mobile phones in Ireland

Ireland uses Type G three-pin plugs and a 230V, 50Hz electricity supply. Bring a plug adapter, check that your devices support the voltage and arrange international roaming if needed.
 

Arriving in Ireland

When you land, turn on your phone so your driver or host can reach you. Carr Golf guests will find the key contact details in their travel pack, and our team will coordinate any changes to their transfer. If luggage is delayed, report it at the airline desk before leaving the airport and keep the reference number.
 

Driving in Ireland

Traffic travels on the left throughout the island. The Republic uses kilometres and kilometres per hour; Northern Ireland uses miles and miles per hour. Country roads can be narrow and journey times may be longer than the distance suggests.
 

Look forward to your trip

With the practicalities covered, you can look forward to the part that matters: memorable links, warm welcomes and the stories that follow you home. For Carr Golf guests, our Client Experience Team remains on hand from final preparations through to departure, coordinating the details so the group can simply enjoy Ireland.