Essential Facts for Renting a Vehicle in Ireland
Renting a Car in Ireland: A Comprehensive Guide for 2025
Renting a car in Ireland can be an exciting way to explore the Emerald Isle's picturesque landscapes, quaint villages, and historical sites. However, with a high tax rate of 13.6% and unique driving conditions, it's essential to be well-prepared. Here are some tips to help you navigate Ireland's roads smoothly.
Preparing for the Drive
- Choose your transmission wisely: Most rental cars in Ireland are manual, but if you're not comfortable driving a stick shift, book an automatic transmission car in advance. Remember, automatics tend to cost more and require online booking before arrival.
- Familiarise yourself with Irish roads: Ireland's roads can be narrow and winding, and driving on the left side may take some getting used to. Practice in a small town before hitting the highways, and be mindful of roundabouts, pull-ins, and blind spots.
- Stay connected: Consider using an eSIM for Ireland to avoid waiting in SIM card lines.
- Plan your fuel stops: Fuel up in larger towns to avoid running out of gas in rural areas where stations are scarce.
Insurance and Costs
- Bring the right insurance: A credit card with Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) insurance coverage can help reduce extra insurance costs.
- Be aware of one-way rental fees: There's an additional fee for one-way car rentals in Ireland, which varies by company.
- Full insurance is recommended: Given Ireland's narrow roads and potential for high damage costs, it's wise to get full insurance coverage.
Navigating the Roads
- Deal with emergencies properly: In an emergency, dial 112. For non-emergencies, contact your Ireland car rental company's roadside assistance number listed on the rental agreement.
- Watch out for livestock: Be aware of sheep and other livestock on smaller roads, as local shepherds may move them onto the roads.
- Be patient: Allow extra travel time during the summer, and be patient with slow-moving vehicles such as tractors and campervans on rural roads.
Practical Tips
- Carry cash for tolls: Irish tolls can cost between $1-$3 for a passenger car, and it's best to have cash on hand.
- Choose a secure car: Rent a car with an actual trunk to hide luggage from prying eyes, as it helps to prevent break-ins.
- Consider diesel cars: Diesel cars may save money on gas in Ireland.
- Choose the right rental company: Some common car rental companies in Ireland include Europecar, Enterprise, Sixt, Hertz, and Dooley. However, the best site to book a car is Discover Cars.
- Allow extra time at airports: When picking up a car from Shannon Airport, allow about 30 minutes after your flight arrives. When departing, be at least 2 ½ hours before your flight leaves. For Dublin Airport, allow about 60 minutes after your flight arrives and 3 ½ hours before your flight departs.
By following these tips, you can have a safer, smoother driving experience and avoid common rental pitfalls in Ireland. Happy travels!
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- Enhancing Your Irish Experience
- Embrace varied lifestyles and home aesthetics: Alongside exploring Ireland's landscapes, immerse yourself in local village homes and gardens, showcasing a mix of traditional and modern styles.
- Post-Driving Leisure
- Indulge in travel and car-related interests: After your journey, delve into home-and-garden magazines, travel blogs, or restoration projects of vintage vehicles from the Emerald Isle, blending your car-rental memories with home décor inspiration.
