What to Pack – Top 5 Items to Take on a Cycling Holiday in Ireland

Posted on Dec 21, 2015 by Darragh Devaney

What to Pack – Top 5 Items to Take on a Cycling Holiday in Ireland

So you’ve been on a cycling holiday in Tuscany and now you are looking for something different this year – you went crazy and booked a Wilderness Ireland Road Cycling Holiday!

But now you keep thinking of John Wayne in The Quiet Man and wondering why he wasn’t wearing Board Shorts and Ray-Bans. Help is at hand: you can leave that snow parka in the garage and just grab these 5 items:

1. Waterproof JacketMany people travelling to Ireland believe it will rain constantly – and then they come away pleasantly surprised, since Ireland is not even in the top ten countries with the highest average rainfall! The reason a rain jacket makes this list is because the weather can be unpredictable. Sure, you need that Goretex on hand, because you never know what weather system will greet you around the next corner, but you won’t be wearing it constantly.
   
2. Camera
3. The ever-changing light in Ireland provides a dynamic flow of opportunities and challenges for those in search of the perfect pic, not to mention sweeping landscapes, marvellous beaches, ancient castles and colourful pubs. Wilderness Ireland’s optional handlebar bags might increase the wind resistance, but they are the perfect place to pop the camera for easy access. And after all, what’s the rush?
4. Comfortable Walking ShoesBut I’m going on a cycling holiday? You sure are, and if you are most comfortable “clipped-in,” then don’t forget to pack the pedals and shoes you are used to. However, you may also want to explore an out of-the-way ruin in the evening, walk along the famous Cliffs of Moher or take a stroll on a secluded beach. Ireland is littered with historical and archaeological curiosities which are certainly worth a short scramble for.
   
5. Padded ShortsSo you’ve fat-biked the Appalachian Trail and your bum is tougher than John McClane in Die Hard. Just bear in mind that underneath it all, your rear-end is actually a sensitive soul and a new saddle could be enough for it to turn against you. (Of course, if you’re very attached, you can always bring your own saddle.)
   
6. Your Drinking Hat

Not the same as your drunk hat! There are many whiskies, beers, wines, distilleries, breweries and of course, pubs to be discovered. But really it is the many cosy and characterful pubs, which have been a central part of Irish society for so long that they’ve become a star attraction! You don’t need to let even a drop of alcohol pass your lips to enjoy the unique atmosphere of these places, as great food is an increasingly common feature.

Looking for a cycling trip in Ireland? Check out our bike tours below:

100% satisfaction guarantee - We beleive our tours are world class. To back that up, we are the only Irish travel company to offer a no strings attached, 100% satisfaction guarantee

---