Jul
I would like to travel to Ireland. I plan on doing a tour…I know a lot of people are against them but I'm told this is a really great way to see Ireland that’s pretty safe, since I am going alone.
The group has you staying in hostels all nights. That being said what do I need? Obviously a passport…but do I NEED a credit card or can I just have my bank cards? I will probably have a mix travelers checks and cash. Any other ideas?
If you have gone, please tell me what you brought, how you packed, etc. I'm thinking ONE backpack since I'm just going for a week.
Thanks!
Answer:
How huge is that backpack, Daisee?
Staying in hostels means no washing anything, including yourself in some places. You will likely need more socks than you think. It rains … shoes get wet, etc. I always take two pairs of run-around shoes and plenty of socks. Jeans I dry (sorta) in my room each night. Shirts … the same. How many to take? 3 changes and one “decent” outfit. Place your jeans on a bed, fold them in half and then roll them into a tube. Jeans and shirts both fit nicely into a backpack when rolled up, and they can protect stuff like your shampoo, etc, which should be encase in a massive zip lock bag.
If you plan to check your backpack, a smaller carry-on can hold a change of clothes, meds, camera, etc. I never checked my backpack until they changed the rules about liquid on carry-on luggage … now I check it.
At the end of the trip, I throw away any unused shampoo, conditioner, etc., and use the “found” space for the stuff I bought. You’ll always find stuff to purchase in Ireland. 
That brings me to money. Yeah, take some money. Cash? Yeah, about $300 to exchange at the airport or the first bank you find (usually a better rate). That’ll give you about 140 euros at the current exchange rate (I think). Check the exchange rate just before you go, and you'll know what to take. Yahoo! Finance gives that info on the financial home page. As far as using a credit card vs a bank card. I've had blended luck. Some places took my bank card just fine. Others kept kicking it out. Last year I had to borrow from my younger brother
I hope this helps. I go to Ireland about each year, but this year I'm staying close to home. I do hope you’ve a terrific time. Take a moment to connect with some Irish people. They’re great!!
Good luck!
Uppity Wench
Answer:
In Ireland here we’ve things called banks which have a wee slot thingy where you put your card in and it gives you money. Great thing it is esp on a Saturday night. We take all sorts of people and their money. Some local pubs will even exchange Euros and Dollars etc. One backpack should do if you aren't having a dirty week. Hope you like Guinness but there is other stuff to drink. Get a Ulster Fry in the morning. It will set you up for the whole day. Hope you enjoy here. I do.
Answer:
if you belong to AAA(auto club) you can get travelers checks in euros with no exchange fee then convert back to dollars when you get back with no fee.
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Don't forget Medicine.
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passport and mucho $$$$$$$$
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money
Answer:
The best tour for younger children (no offense…you sound young) is
http://www.efcollegebreak.com
The catcj is you’ve to be between the ages of 18-26. If so, I can recommend how I’ve travelled all of Europe. It's awesome!
http://www.efcollegebreak.com
It lists tons of vacations, priced cheap for students…or really anyone from age 18 to 26.
They take care of the airfare, transportation, activities…they basically make sure you’ve a great time!
Its way cheap, fun (you get to travel with other hot college kids), safer and smarter.
Plus if you use this manager code: gavrie6237
you'll get a $50.00 discount on top of the already cheap price!!
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