Connemara Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Essential Preparations

Follow this chronological timeline to organize your trip effectively.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Organize your journey with these phases.

Three Months Before

Passport & Visas

Check passport validity: six months beyond return date.

Flight Bookings

Book international flights early, especially for peak season.

Car Rental

Start researching and booking car rental, note automatic transmission needs.

One Month Before

Accommodation

Secure all Connemara lodging, B&Bs, and self-catering properties fill quickly.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance, possibly from providers like World Nomads, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and activities.

Itinerary Planning

Plan a general itinerary and research specific attractions.

One Week Before

Confirmations

Confirm all flight, accommodation, and car rental bookings.

Financial & Digital

Notify banks of travel dates. Download offline maps.

Home Prep & Packing

Arrange home preparations (pet care, mail) and pack climate-appropriate clothing, including packing organizers from Eagle Creek.

Advance Bookings

Secure these elements well in advance for a seamless trip.

Reservations

Flights and accommodation.
Car rental and popular attractions with timed entry.
Ferry tickets to Aran Islands (important in peak season).
Confirming all bookings prior to departure.

Research & Home Prep

Familiarize yourself with Connemara and manage home affairs.

Important Research

Read up on Connemara's history and culture.
Familiarize yourself with Irish driving rules.
Investigate local dining options and traditional music venues.
Learn phrases that connect with locals.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Address these home tasks for peace of mind while away.

Security Measures

Secure your home: Lock windows and doors.
Set up any alarm systems.
Inform trusted neighbors of your absence.
Temporarily halt newspaper delivery.

Utilities & Services

Manage mail: Arrange for mail to be held or collected.
Turn off unnecessary lights and appliances.
Adjust thermostat settings to conserve energy.
Ensure bills are paid or set up for auto-pay.

Pet & Plant Care

Arrange for pet sitters or boarding as needed.
Ensure pets have adequate food and water for departure day.
Water indoor plants or arrange for plant care.
Dispose of perishable food items.

Plan Thoroughly

A well-prepared departure enhances your overall travel experience and peace of mind.

Arrival & 16.3 Departure

First Steps Upon Arrival

Airport Procedures

Clear immigration and customs at the airport efficiently.
Collect your luggage from the baggage claim area.
Proceed to the arrivals hall.
Keep your passport and documents accessible.

Ground Transport

Locate the car rental desk if you pre-booked a vehicle.
Find public transport options, like bus stops, if not renting a car.
Confirm your pre-planned route to your first accommodation.
Utilize navigation apps for directions.

Initial Essentials

Withdraw Euros from an ATM at the airport or exchange currency.
Consider purchasing a local SIM card for your phone.
Ensure your phone is charged for immediate communication.
Grab a local map or tourist brochure if available.

Departure Preparations

Souvenirs & VAT

Purchase souvenirs well before your departure date.
If shipping items, confirm costs and procedures with the vendor.
For non-EU visitors, gather VAT refund forms for eligible purchases.

Airport Timing

Allow ample time for returning your rental car at the airport.
Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights.
Arrive 1.5-2 hours for domestic or short-haul European flights.

Return Journey & Safety

Final Checks

Confirm your return flight details and boarding passes.
Pack luggage securely, adhering to airline baggage rules.
Ensure essential documents (passport, boarding pass) are accessible.

Travel Logistics

Allow extra time for traffic on your way to the airport.
Plan your route to avoid unexpected delays.
Consider online check-in to save time at the airport.

Final Reminders

Departure Checklist

Double-check passport and visa requirements.
Verify flight times and gate information.
Ensure all important documents are backed up digitally.
Confirm transport to the airport.
Check weather conditions at your destination.

Last-Minute Tasks

Review your itinerary one last time.
Collect any last-minute souvenirs.
Empty your trash and leave accommodation tidy.
Say farewell to any new local acquaintances.
Charge all electronics for the journey.

Smooth Transitions

Seamless Arrival

Streamlined entry procedures make your arrival in Connemara stress-free.

Effortless Departure

Efficient airport processes contribute to a relaxed departure from Ireland.

Preparedness

Thorough planning means you simply experience the journey.

Important Travel Logistics

From your initial arrival to your final departure, attention to detail streamlines your entire Connemara experience.

Connemara Travel Checklist