St. Patrick’s Day is one of the busiest travel periods of the year in Ireland. Whether you’re driving into town for a parade, heading cross-country to see family, or flying off for a short break, a little planning goes a long way.
Below is a practical, Ireland-focused St. Patrick’s Day travel & drive safe checklist you can save and share.
If you’re organizing your cover too, you can explore AA Travel Insurance and (for road trips) AA European Breakdown Cover.
Quick checklist: before you set off
1) Plan your route (and your back-up)
St. Patrick’s week can mean diversions, heavier traffic near parade routes, and longer travel times.
- Check for local road closures and event timings.
- Build in extra time (especially for city centers).
- Share your ETA with someone if you’re traveling alone.
2) Do a 2-minute car safety check
You don’t need to be a mechanic to spot the obvious issues that cause stress mid-journey.
- Tyres: look for damage or low tread, and make sure pressures are right.
- Lights: do a quick walk-around (headlights, brake lights, indicators).
- Windscreen: top up washer fluid and check wipers.
- Fuel/charge: don’t start a long journey on “nearly empty.”
If you’re stopping at a busy forecourt, take a second to avoid misfuelling—here’s what AA Fuel Assist is and how it can help if the wrong fuel ends up in the tank.
3) Charge your phone (and pack what you need)
Your phone is your map, your contact method, and your safety net.
Pack:
- Phone fully charged + charging cable/power bank
- Hi-vis vest and a torch
- Warm layer and rain gear (Ireland’s weather can turn quickly)
- Water/snacks for longer trips
Drive safe checklist: getting there (and getting home)
4) Decide how you’re getting home before you go out
If St. Patrick’s Day plans include a night out, this is the single biggest decision you can make for safety.
- Choose a designated driver.
- Book a taxi or agree your public transport plan.
- Stay over if needed.
Even if you’re driving sober, remember there may be more pedestrians and unpredictable road users on the roads—especially around event areas and later in the evening.
5) Don’t drive tired
Fatigue can creep in after a long day out, long waits, or a late finish.
- Take breaks on longer journeys.
- Swap drivers if you can.
- If you feel your attention drifting, stop somewhere safe and reset.
If something goes wrong: what to do if you break down
Breakdowns are stressful—but the steps are simple when you have them saved.
- Pull in safely (as far from moving traffic as you can).
- Switch on hazards.
- Get visible (hi-vis if you have one; keep your lights on if safe to do so).
- Stay safe and away from traffic.
- Get help.
For a calm, step-by-step guide you can follow in the moment, bookmark: My car has just broken down—what do I do now?
Traveling abroad for St. Patrick’s week?
Short breaks and last-minute trips are common in March. Two reminders that can save hassle later:
- Travel insurance: it’s usually best to sort your cover as soon as you book. Here’s AA’s guidance on the best time to buy travel insurance.
- Driving in Europe: if you’re bringing your own car abroad, look at AA European Breakdown Cover so you’re not relying on guesswork if something happens.
The 30-second version (save this)
- Plan your route + back-up
- Quick check: tyres, lights, washer fluid, fuel
- Phone charged + cable
- Pack hi-vis + torch
- If celebrating, plan the lift home first
- If you break down, follow the steps and use the guide
Wherever you’re headed this St. Patrick’s Day, we hope you have a great trip—and a safe one.
