Staycations are officially in! As a nation we’re starting to appreciate the wealth of beauty and culture on our doorsteps in Ireland and spending more time exploring our magnificent country. From the stunning Wild Atlantic Way to the breath-taking Giant’s Causeway and all the fun-filled cities and picturesque towns in between, there are a lot of gorgeous areas to be more than proud of.
While getting out and about is a huge part of enjoying your getaway it’s important not to underestimate the Irish summer. The sun’s rays are as strong as anywhere else in Europe and the risk of illness is just as high. Here are our top ten tips for holidays in Ireland to enjoy yourself to the fullest.
Beware of the sun
Always wear sun cream when exposed to the sun, even if it appears overcast outside. You really don’t want to be rocking the lobster look! Sun burn greatly increases the risk of melanoma, the most fatal kind of skin cancer.
Stay hydrated
Whether you’re hiking in the Wicklow Mountains or bopping along at a music festival, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. This will help your heart and muscles to work efficiently, as well as reducing the risk of sunstroke.
Avoid insect bites
Pick up a decent repellent to avoid nasty bug bites. Believe us, you don’t want to spend the summer being irritated by itchy bites. TMB have a variety of high-quality repellents and bug bands to keep insects at bay.
Be careful when swimming
Sadly about a third of all drownings in Ireland are alcohol related so never drink if you intend on swimming. Having alcohol in your system when you enter cold water can lead to serious issues such as disorientation, difficult breathing and hypothermia – not to be taken lightly.
Protect your phone
If you’re heading to the beach or an outdoor pool, invest in a decent waterproof case for your smart phone. This will keep it totally dry, while still allowing you to make calls, use your apps and take those all-important sun-soaked selfies.
Avoid food poisoning
Enjoying a barbeque or picnic is one of the best things about the summer months but make sure you cook food thoroughly through to avoid food poisoning. Bacteria like salmonella, e.coli and listeria grow much faster at warmer temperatures so store perishable foods in a cooler bag or box.
Don’t drink too much
If you’ve got tickets for any of the fantastic Irish festivals this year, pace yourself when it comes to drinking. Don’t waste your money on an experience you’re only going to forget. Consuming large amounts of alcohol in the sun is a dangerous mix and puts you at a much greater risk of accidents or illness.
Be prepared
It’s Ireland so don’t be surprised if you experience a freak shower or sudden change in weather. Always bring a jacket with you just in case it turns chilly or rains. If you’re camping, make sure you bring a spare change of clothes and plenty of dry socks.
Entertain children
Sunday drives are a staple component of many Irish childhoods. Give your kids some child-safe headphones so they can enjoy music and games in the backseat. Travelshop.ie have a great selection of products to make travelling with children nice and easy, like tasty travel pops that prevent car sickness. Always keep a first aid kit in your car in case someone has an accident.
Mind your feet
Off on a hiking trip? Invest in a decent pair of boots in the right size and make sure you wear these in well before any big excursions. The last thing you want is your exciting day out ruined because of painful arches or blistered heels.
Gorgeous scenery, friendly locals and plenty of craic – holidaying in Ireland is an experience not to be missed! Whether you’re camping in Cork, swimming in Sligo or walking in Wexford, these top tips will ensure you stay healthy on your adventures.