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Ring of Kerry Travel Checklist

Ring of Kerry Travel Checklist

Ring Of Kerry County Kerry, Ireland Travel Guide

Chronological Planning

A structured approach to your travel preparations.

Your Planning Journey

Follow this timeline for a smooth preparation.

1

-6 Months Ahead

Skellig Michael Tour

Book your landing tour for Skellig Michael as tours sell out very quickly.

Flights & Major Stays

Secure international flights for better prices and preferred dates, and major accommodations.

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity. Apply for a visa if your nationality needs one. This can weeks or months.

2

-2 Months Ahead

Remaining Accommodations

Secure your other B&Bs, guesthouses, or self-catering stays along the Ring of Kerry.

Detailed Itinerary & Car

Outline daily activities. Book rental car if not already done, consider insurance options.

Travel Insurance & IDP

Obtain comprehensive Travel insurance. Consider an International Driving Permit (if needed).

3

-4 Weeks Ahead

Confirm Bookings & Copies

Double-check all reservations. Create digital and physical copies of essential documents.

Bank & Logistics

Inform financial institutions of travel dates. Arrange pet care/house sitting if applicable.

Packing & Currency

Start packing list. Get a small amount of Euros for immediate use upon arrival.

Required Bookings & Research

Advance reservations are important for popular activities.

Required Advance Bookings

  • Skellig Michael Landing Tours (sells out fastest).
  • International Flights (book early for best prices).
  • Car Rental (especially automatics).
  • Popular Accommodations, especially in Killarney and Kenmare during high season.

Home Preparation

Secure your home and manage household tasks.

Home Checklist

  • Lock all windows and doors, set alarms if you have them, and inform trusted neighbors of your absence.
  • Unplug non-essential electronics to save energy and reduce fire risk.
  • Empty trash, clean out fridge to prevent odors and pests.
  • Set Up Mail/Newspaper Holds to avoid overflowing mailboxes.

Research & Final Checks

Final checks before you depart.

Pre-trip Research

  • Read Guidebooks and Travel Blogs for local tips.
  • Watch Travel Videos and Documentaries for a visual sense.
  • Familiarize yourself with Irish Driving Rules (drive on left).

Week Before

  • Finalize packing list, ensure waterproofs and layers. Consider Eagle Creek for organizers.
  • Charge all electronic devices, download offline maps and any required apps.
  • Confirm Met Éireann weather forecast for Kerry.
  • Exchange some local currency (Euros) for immediate use.

-48 Hours Before

  • Reconfirm flight status for any last-minute delays or changes.
  • Pack essentials in carry-on: medications, important documents, and a change of clothes.
  • Notify emergency contacts of travel plans.

Last Minute Steps

Inform Bank/Credit Card Companies of Travel Dates. Arrange for Bill Payments. Consider Local SIM Card Options or Roaming Plans.

Arrival Checklist

These steps aid your settlement upon arriving in Ireland.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • Clear Immigration & Luggage:

    Have your passport and any required visa documents ready. Collect your checked bags.

  • Locate Transport:

    Find your pre-booked rental car or head to the designated bus/taxi pick-up points.

  • Activate Connection:

    Activate local SIM card or ensure phone roaming works for immediate communication.

Settling In

  • Orientation:

    Get a local map and use GPS/map to find your way to your first night's stay.

  • Currency & Purchases:

    Withdraw Euros from ATM or exchange currency. Purchase water/snacks if you are thirsty or hungry.

  • Local Familiarization:

    Take a short walk around your accommodation to get your bearings, find nearby shops, or restaurants.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase last-minute souvenirs. Inquire about shipping large items home.

If you made large purchases, ask shops about international shipping services.

VAT Refund

If you made qualifying purchases, complete your VAT refund forms.

Present the goods and receipts at the airport's tax refund counter before security.

Return Trip Finalization

Reconfirm your flight details. Arrange transport to the airport.

Pack carefully, ensuring any liquids in carry-on bags comply with regulations.

Departure Reminder

Allow ample time at the airport for car return (if applicable), check-in, security screening, and VAT refund processing.

Check with your airline for recommended arrival times at the airport.

Pre-Departure Timing

Plan your airport arrival for a stress-free departure.

Financial Matters

  • Qualifying purchasesComplete VAT refund forms
  • Present goodsAt airport tax refund counter
  • TimingBefore security, allow extra time for processing and inspection

Pre-Departure Logistics

  • Reconfirm your flight details.
  • Arrange transport to the airport.
  • Pack carefully, liquids in carry-on comply with regulations.

Final Hours Reminder

Allow ample time at the airport for car return (if applicable), check-in, security screening, and VAT refund processing.

Travel Timing

  • Check with your airlineRecommended airport arrival times