Essential Facts About Hiring a Vehicle in Ireland
Exploring Ireland by car offers a unique opportunity to delve into the heart of the Emerald Isle, from picturesque villages to ancient castles. However, driving in Ireland comes with its own set of challenges that are important to be aware of. Here are some tips to ensure a smoother and safer car rental experience.
Choosing the Right Car
If you're not comfortable driving a manual car, it's advisable to book an automatic car in advance. Most rental cars in Ireland come with manual transmissions by default, and automatics cost more and must be specially requested ahead of time.
Adjusting to the Roads
Driving is on the left-hand side in Ireland, which may require adjustment, especially if you come from countries with right-hand driving. Remember, Ireland has narrow and winding roads, and drivers are on the opposite side of the road compared to some countries.
Allow Extra Time
At Dublin Airport, you usually need to take a shuttle bus from the terminal to the rental lot, and these shuttles are small and can be slow. Allow extra time for car rental pickup to avoid any unnecessary stress.
Navigating the Countryside
In rural areas, gas stations are sparse, and speed limits are given in kilometers per hour (km/h). Expect narrow rural roads and frequent slow vehicles like tractors. It's important to use designated pull-ins (lay-bys) to let faster traffic pass, helping local drivers appreciate your patience.
Be cautious when using navigation apps like Google Maps. If a road looks like a farm track, turn around, as navigation can occasionally route you onto unsuitable roads.
Electric Vehicles and Charging Stations
If you rent an electric vehicle, use apps like ESB eCars or PlugShare to locate charging stations, which are increasingly common in towns and along major routes.
Rental Companies and Fees
Avoid certain rental companies with poor reviews. For instance, Easirent Dublin Airport has reported problematic experiences, including vehicle breakdowns and bad customer service.
Renting a car in Ireland comes with a high tax rate of 13.6%. There's also an additional fee for one-way car rentals, which can vary by company. Some companies also charge an "admin fee" of about €30 EURO for using one's own credit card insurance.
Age Limit and Cost
The minimum age for driving in Ireland is 18 years old, but most car rental companies enforce their own age limit of 21 years old. They also charge an additional fee if you're under 24 years old. The cost of renting a car in Ireland is approximately $25-$40 USD per day, depending on the type of car.
Exploring Ireland at Your Own Pace
Renting a car in Ireland allows for a flexible itinerary and the ability to explore small villages, castles, and go hiking at one's own pace. Just remember to watch out for sheep on the roads in smaller towns, and be prepared for the occasional close encounter with stone walls or hedges on narrow back roads.
For a hassle-free car rental experience, consider renting from Discover Cars, which searches both local and international car rental companies. Whether you're on a genealogy trip or simply eager to explore Ireland's beauty, these tips will help ensure a smoother and safer journey.
- When planning to explore Ireland, consider the convenience of choosing an automatic car if you're not comfortable with manual transmissions.
- During your travels, be mindful of the country's narrow and winding roads, driving on the left-hand side, and the occasional need to use designated pull-ins to let faster traffic pass.
