Camping in Ireland – Discover the Emerald Isle

In order not to miss out on any of Ireland’s diverse landscapes a camper is the perfect way to explore the entire island and everything it has to offer. Before you set out however, there are a few things to consider so that you can start into your adventure “Camping in Ireland” well prepared!

One could dedicate a whole article to the cultural and political differences between Northern Ireland which belongs to the United Kingdom and the neighboring independent Republic of Ireland and how it came to this. However, here we'll only mention the most important and most relevant information for those entering by camper.

The most important difference is probably the (non-)affiliation to the United Kingdom. For all of you who have been living under a rock for the last few years (we really couldn’t blame anyone for that) – The so-called “Brexit”, i.e. the exit of the United Kingdom from the European Union is a done deal and in full swing. Therefore, Northern Ireland is no longer part of the EU and this has consequences as far as the regulations for German tourists are concerned. So what has changed specifically?

Since 01 October 2021 a passport is required for entry into Great Britain and thus also Northern Ireland – the identity card is still sufficient as an identification document only under certain conditions. What should make it easier for many travellers is that the application and carrying a visa is usually still not necessary.

As far as the Republic of Ireland is concerned the identity card is sufficient at the border but it can of course be replaced by a passport. Otherwise, the general entry criteria of the European Union apply.

By the way: When entering Great Britain from Ireland there will still be no routine immigration control carried out due to the agreements on the “Common Travel Area” and there is also no border control at the national border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Those who are not prone to seasickness, remain relaxed and don't mind larger waves can take a short road trip to France and get on the ferry to Ireland from there. Shy of water? No problem: Via the land bridge you can reach your destination by first passing the English Channel and then crossing the Irish Sea without any problems.

The smaller Northern Ireland also differs from the Republic of Ireland in terms of domestic traffic regulations. In both cases, we recommend that you research the traffic rules of your destination in detail to avoid dangerous or expensive mistakes.

If you don't enter Northern Ireland in your own camper/motorhome or one you rented in Germany you can usually book a rental car there if you're over 21 years old but this may vary depending on the vehicle category. In addition, you should have been in possession of your driver’s license for at least one year. For drivers under the age of 25 there's also a ´young drivers fee` to be paid and sometimes Northern Ireland car rental companies stipulate a maximum drivers age of 69 years. As in Germany, everyone in the car has to wear a seat belt while driving.

Please also note that in Northern Ireland left-hand traffic prevails and parking bans are marked by red or double yellow lines on the curb.

Speed in Northern Ireland is not stated in kilometres/hour as it is here but in miles/hour. General rule:

In the Republic of Ireland there's a minimum - and in some cases a maximum - age for drivers as well. Drivers must be at least 25 years old and have held a driver’s license for at least one year, in some cases even two years. In some cases a maximum age of 79 is stipulated. Children up to the age of twelve and under 1.35 metres tall must be transported in a child seat.

In Ireland you also have to drive on the left side of the road. You should also note that there's a toll for driving on the M1 and M4 freeways, the East Link bridge and the West Link bridge. This is based on the vehicle category but only costs a few euros. Parking bans in the Republic are also marked by double yellow lines.

The Irish speed limits are as follows:

Ireland has a lot to offer in terms of diverse landscapes. Spectacular stone coasts, green as far as the eye can reach and much more – there's something to see for everyone! In addition to the famous Cliffs of Moher, Ireland has many other places worth seeing.

Fancy an Ireland road trip but don't know exactly where to go or which campsites are the best? Then check out the CamperBoys Trip Planner. We plan your road trip according to your individual needs down to the smallest detail.

At 2,600 kilometers, the Wild Atlantic Way is one of the world's longest designated coastal roads. Along Ireland’s west coast you’ll discover a diverse coastal landscape shaped by the ocean as well as picturesque villages and impressive monuments. You want to see high cliffs, dreamlike bays and beaches and a mystical island here and there? Then the Wild Atlantic Way is just right for you! More information about the exact route, highlights and more can be found here.

If you're more drawn to the southwest of the country the famous Ring of Kerry panoramic road is a good choice. It leads you along the coast through breathtaking landscapes and past numerous sights. If you want to combine the Ring of Kerry with neighboring tours, the Skellig Ring would be ideal. You should definitely plan enough time for this. What makes this route so popular? Besides the spectacular panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean there's the enchanting lake district around Killarney, the majestic mountain scenery in the background and the untouched nature in the west.

This green valley which offers various hiking trails with numerous lookout points and the Galtee Mountains in the background is located in Tipperary, Ireland. So if you like to exercise while on vacation and like to combine it with beautiful views this is the place to be! In addition to hiking, other activities such as golf or horseback riding are offered. You can get more information here.

Although, when thinking of camping in Ireland its landscape is probably (and rightly so) the first thing that comes to mind, camping fans who like to add a bit of an urban flair to their trip will also find what they're looking for in Ireland. The well-known cities of Dublin, Cork and Galway can all be visited either in the course of a car tour or before starting out and have so much to offer in terms of culture and culinary delights. A real enrichment for every camping vacation!

Campsites in Ireland are fortunately not a rarity. Since Ireland is a popular destination for campers the island is equipped with plenty of campsites. Irish campsites can be found all over the island so depending on the region you’re drawn to you should definitely be able to find one. However, it's wise to make a reservation at the campsite of your choice, at least during the high season between July and August. Outside the summer months you should be able to find a place without a reservation but some campsites take a winter break. Check out opening hours, reservations and other special regulations of the campsite you want to visit in advance.

Those who prefer wild camping need to be very strong now: Wild camping is generally not allowed in Ireland. Of course, there is the possibility to ask the respective landowner for an overnight permit. If nothing comes of it, at least natural and rustic campsites - there are fortunately more than enough in Ireland - can often create a feeling of wild camping.