
Hosted by Ireland Family Vacations · EN

So, what is CDW coverage and why do you have to have it? Put very simply, CDW coverage limits your liability for material damage to the vehicle. Basic CDW is included in your rental agreement. This coverage limits your liability for damage to the vehicle. But it does not completely cover it. The amount over and above the basic CDW coverage is the ‘excess', which usually begins around €2500 and rises based on vehicle make and model. If there is damage to the car ‘in excess' of the basic CDW, you will be responsible for that amount.The post Ireland Car Rental CDW Insurance appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

I answer many questions about travel in Ireland, but the most popular topic- by far- concerns driving in Ireland. One of the most common questions I receive is about Ireland rental car insurance, particularly CDW coverage (Collision Damage Waiver).CLICK HERE to learn Everything You Need to Know About Car Rental in IrelandThis article is also available as a podcast. You will find the podcast player at the end of this article.Ireland Rental Car Insurance and CDW CoverageWhile you can opt out of the CDW coverage in some countries, it is a mandatory insurance in Ireland. And while many credit cards offer CDW coverage if you use them to pay for the rental, a slightly deeper search shows that most do not cover rentals in Ireland.Ireland's narrow, winding roads and stone walls are one reason most credit cards don't include Ireland rental car insurance and CDW coverage.So, what is CDW coverage and why do you have to have it?Put very simply, CDW coverage limits your liability for material damage to the vehicle.Basic CDW is included in your rental agreement. This coverage limits your liability for damage to the vehicle. But it does not completely cover it.The amount over and above the basic CDW coverage is the ‘excess', which usually begins around €2500 and rises based on vehicle make and model. If there is damage to the car ‘in excess' of the basic CDW, you will be responsible for that amount.This amount is covered in three ways:Option 1The Excess is held on your credit card. This is the credit card you used to book the car rental. This amount will be released when the car is returned undamaged.Option 2Purchase Vehicle Excess (also called CDW Excess, CDI Excess, Super CDW, Super Damage Waiver). This insurance upgrade is available at a per-day date (normally from €26-30). This option reduces your liability to €100 or even zero. If there is damage to your car you will not be responsible beyond the deductible.Option 3Americans and Canadians can waive CDW if their credit card company allows it. It is important to note that Discover Card is not accepted in Ireland and many rental car companies will not accept American Express to waive CDW.This is still a little confusing, so I'll break it down a bit more: You cannot rent a car in Ireland without providing insurance in some way. Insurance is paid for when you pick up the car unless you have arranged coverage beforehand, so be sure to have room on your credit card for this fee. If you opt for basic CDW (option 1) a “hold” will be placed on your card equal to the coverage amount necessary for that vehicle (can be from €2500- €7000).CDW Excess coverage is in addition to your car rental fees so it pays to do your homework.I prefer to rent with Irish Car Rentals. Their rental rates are very competitive and Vehicle Excess (SCDW) can be added when you book online – no cash out of hand when you pick up the car and you'll be on your way quicker.I also compare costs with Auto Europe, which will also allow you to add Super CDW when you reserve your vehicle, and Discover Cars, which offers its own 3rd party insurance options.There are many places in Ireland you can't get to by bus, like this spot on Sheeps Head Peninsula.How to Use Credit Card Insurance Coverage for Car Rental in IrelandCertain credit cards offer collision damage cover for the driver, however most VISA, Mastercard, and American Express card issuing companies in the North America have withdrawn coverage for car rental in the Republic of Ireland. If the customer wishes to use their credit card to cover collision damage, they must first waive CDW when reserving their rental car, then obtain a current Letter of Authorization from the credit card company. This letter must be presented at the time of rental in order to waive the CDW/CDI coverage. Client should note that theft insurance may not be included.Tip: Letter needs to be issued less than 2 weeks prior to picking up the car. A quick call to your card issuer will result in an immediate email of authorization. Print this out and present to rental company. Credit card used to rent the car must be the same as credit card offering coverage.It is your sole responsibility to determine coverage with your provider and present proof upon arrival. If proof of coverage is insufficient, you will be liable for the full value of the vehicle and a minimum deposit (hold) will be required. Alternatively, you may opt to purchase CDW/CDI locally which will limit your liability.Also note that your credit card will have a ‘hold’ place on it for at least €2500 (often €5000 or more) in case of damage, so be sure your credit limit is sufficient. This ‘hold’ is released when the car is returned undamaged.If you have an accident, the vehicle repair costs will be charged to your credit card (hence the ‘hold') and you will file the paperwork with your credit card company to have the amount refunded via their insurance coverage.What About Travel Insurance Policies that Cover Car Rental?Third party excess policies, like those from travel insurance or DiscoverCars, do not reduce your excess to zero. They simply insure the excess. This means that if your excess (the amount held on your credit card) is taken due to damage caused by you during your rental, you can claim this amount back through the company you purchased this policy from.You must have proof of the policy when you pick up the car and it must confirm relevant coverage for the Republic of Ireland. You will be required to leave an excess deposit (often €5000 or more) held on the credit card used to rent the car. Drivers who arrive without a relevant card and letter, or those who do not have excess available on their card, will be required to purchase S...

This article focuses on departures from Dublin and Shannon airports for North American visitors to Ireland. At this time no other Ireland airports offer direct flights to North America.How far can you stay from the airport the night before you leave Ireland and still have a relaxed morning and a (mostly) stress-free departure?A few factors go into this answer:Which airport are you departing from? Do you need to return a rental car? How many people are traveling? What time does your flight depart?How Close Should You Stay to Dublin Airport the Night Before You Leave Ireland?I'm going to begin with Dublin Airport as that is the airport most visitors to Ireland use.Returning to the US from Dublin AirportUnderstanding what time you need to arrive at the airport is the most important factor to determining how close you should stay to the airport the night before your departure.If you've even gently perused my Dublin Airport tips article you know that airlines recommend that you allow yourself a minimum of 3 hours to check in for your flight, clear security, return your VAT (and possibly do a bit of shopping), and pass through US Preclearance and US Customs.And though you probably don't have to give yourself that much time, I think it is still a very good guideline.If you plan to return your rental car that morning, I would add an additional 30 minutes to your airport arrival time to allow for the rental car check-in and shuttle back to the terminal.Tip: If you will be returning your car off site, I recommend dropping off travel companions and luggage at the airport before returning the car.check-in crowds at Dublin AirportIf you are traveling with children or a large group, you may want to add an additional 30 minutes as more people can often equal more time to get through each checkpoint.Once you have a good idea of how much time you may need at the airport, subtract those hours from your flight departure time.Ireland Family Vacations is committed to remaining an ad-free resource and is supported through partnerships with trusted travel brands. We may earn income from purchases made via affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn commission from qualifying purchases. Thank you for your support. See why this is important.I recommend:Departure before 11 am – stay in an airport hotel or nearby villages of Malahide or SwordsAirport hotels Malahide Swords Departure between 11 am and 2 pm – you could stay a bit further out, between 30-45 minutes from the airport. I don't recommend much further because you never know what traffic will be like. Dublin city centre County Kildare Enniskerry/ Powerscourt, Wicklow Trim/ Navan, County Meath <li...

Renting a car in Ireland is the best way to experience everything the country has to offer. You will be able to explore Ireland at your own pace, not on someone else's schedule. You can stay longer in an area you are drawn to, change your itinerary at will, or just take the long, meandering road to your next destination.Car rental in Ireland isn't as simple as it is in other places. You have a few important choices to keep in mind as you choose your rental car – from size and transmission to rental company and insurance coverage.Click Here to pin this to your Ireland travel board!There is a lot of information in this article- if you want a condensed version here is what you MUST know about renting a car in Ireland.Most cars in Ireland are manual transmission. If you can not drive a ‘stick shift' be sure to reserve an automatic. Rates are higher. Understand additional fees you may encounter (all are listed here). You do not need a car in Dublin. Plan to pick up after your city stay or return when you visit. Cars are a bit smaller and boot (trunk) space can be limited. Review car size carefully before booking. Additional insurance is mandatory, whether you purchase it or use a credit card. Read this section to understand your options (this is the most important part).How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Ireland?Car rental costs will vary based on the type of car you rent, when you rent it, the time of year you are visiting, where you rent from and where you return the vehicle, as well as any additional products or services you add to your rental.Average Ireland rental car costs in 2025(updated January 24, 2025)7 day round-trip rental with SCDW from Dublin Airport via Irish Car Rentals using my exclusive rental link.MayManual Economy€385.79Automatic Economy€507.84Manual Compact€408.66Automatic Compact€537.19Manual Intermediate€501.29Automatic Intermediate€583.00Manual SUV/Family€517.82Automatic SUV/Family€614.40JulyManual Economy€376.03Automatic Economy€452.02Manual Compact€398.71Automatic Compact€479.30Manual Intermediate€468.15Automatic Intermediate€548.98Manual SUV/Family€480.02Automatic SUV/Family€560.91OctoberManual Economy€336.27Automatic Economy€444.77Manual Compact€367.77Automatic Compact€489.82Manual Intermediate€480.56Automatic Intermediate€526.49Manual SUV/Family€493.50Automatic SUV/Family€610.49Additional Ireland Car Rental CostsAs you can see above, it costs more to rent a car with an automatic transmission than a manual, but that's not the only cost that can be added to your car rental in Ireland. Other fees can include:Renting a diesel vehicle will increase rental costs but may save money on fuel One-way rental costs Irish car rental taxes (some companies build this into the rental cost) SCDW (or Excess) insurance (you want this -> read the section on insurance) Cross border fee (if you visit Northern Ireland) Additional Driver Refueling (return the car with an empty fuel tank) Age related costs (under 25 and over 75) GPS rental (don't do this! Use the map on your mobile device. Get tips here!) Toll tag use (most visitors don't need this! Learn why here.) Petrol (obviously) Admin fees (some rental agencies charge fees for using your own insurance or using a credit card)Looking for the EASIEST car rental in Ireland?Irish Car Rentals offers Contactless Car Rentals with Full Insurance at Dublin Airport!How to Save Money on Car Rental in IrelandThe cost of renting a car can seem steep, so you may be looking for a way to save a bit of money.Whatever you do, DO NOT scrimp on the insurance. The SCDW insurance with a zero deductible is often the best money you will spend. Considering using credit card insurance coverage? Read this first.Here are a few ways to save money on your car rental:Rent early for the best rate. I recommend booking as soon as you know your travel dates.Rent a manual transmission vehicle (but ONLY if you already know how to drive it!).Rent the smallest vehicle you can be comfortable in (don't forget about your luggage).Only rent a car for the days you need it (you will NOT need a car in Dublin city).Return your car to the same location you rented from.Rent from Irish Car Rentals with my exclusive link to save 10%.<img decoding="async" width="640" height="480" src="https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/20130514_080919-2400x1800-640x480.jpg" alt="Ireland Car Rental" class="wp-image-1590" srcset="https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/20130514_080919-2400x1800-640x480.jpg 640w, https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/20130514_080919-2400x1800-600x450.jpg 600w, https://irelandfamilyvacations....

We have visited in every month of the year and I can honestly say that any time you can go to Ireland is a good time to go!Planning your trip is dependent on your own schedule and the experiences you want to have, but trust me when I say that you can have an amazing Ireland vacation any month of the year.Below you will see a breakdown of what you can expect in Ireland, month by month, followed by recommendations on the best time to visit Ireland for specific areas and activities.The Holy Mountain of Croagh Patrick after a snow stormThis article is also available as a podcast. To listen please scroll to the player at the bottom of the page to listen.When is the Best Time to Visit Ireland?There is no bad time to visit Ireland!My Favorite Month to Visit IrelandMy favorite time to visit Ireland is mid to late September. Why? It's not as busy as summer, the weather is still quite good, and prices are beginning to drop a bit for flights and accommodation.Visiting Ireland in January January in Ireland is the perfect time for a city break! Prices for everything from airfare to accommodations is less, and crowds are minimal. Most attractions and tours are open year round in Ireland's cities, though they may have shorter hours. Shorter days mean longer nights, so you can expect lively pubs in the afternoon and evenings. Ireland has a very temperate climate so even the coldest days don't often dip below freezing. Related Article: Visiting Ireland in January- What You Can Really ExpectVisiting Ireland in FebruaryFebruary is the cheapest month to fly to Ireland. In my experience February has the harshest weather of any month in Ireland as the country transitions from winter to spring. Much like January, February is a great time to focus on Irish cities.Carraigafoyle Castle, KerryVisiting Ireland in MarchIrish tourism gets a great boost in March due to St. Patrick's Day. You'll find many rural areas begin their tourism season around this time, though some may operate on shorter hours or limited days until the busier summer season. Weather in March can be varied, so you want to be sure to pack for any and all types of weather. Related Article: Ireland vacation Clothing You Shouldn't Leave Home WithoutVisiting Ireland in AprilYou'll find a little lull in tourists in April as the St. Patrick's Day revelers have departed and the busier travel season has not yet begun. Most tourism sites and attractions are open and ready for visitors, though hours may still be limited to specific days of the week. April weather is quite similar to March, though temperatures are on the rise.Visiting Ireland in MayMay is shoulder-season in Ireland and tourism begins its summer rise this month. Temperatures remain more consistent, in the mid-to-high 60s (Fahrenheit), and the longer days offer more time for exploration.Visiting Ireland in JuneThe busy summer season begins in June as school ends in America and families begin to travel in Ireland. You'll find the streets in Dublin and Galway filling with crowds and prices on everything from airfare and accommodations to car rental begin to rise.June weather can be quite pleasant, though there is always the possibility of cold rain and whipping winds, so don't forget a rain jacket and layers when packing!Beyond the Trees AvondaleVisiting Ireland in July and AugustWelcome to the ‘high season' of Irish tourism. School is out in Ireland and across Europe so this is when most families tend to visit Ireland. The most popular destinations across Ireland will be busy and lines at the most popular attractions can be long. Book as much in advance as possible to avoid disappointment. The good news about visiting Ireland in the summer months is that the daylight hours are incredibly long! The sun will rise before 5am and set after 10pm, with hours of twilight on either end. If you want to see as much as possible while in Ireland this is your best opportunity. It is best to remember that, while these are Ireland's warmest months, the temperature doesn't usually rise over 70 degrees Fahrenheit on average.Visiting Ireland in SeptemberAs I said above, this is my favorite month to visit Ireland. Crowds are beginning to diminish, the days are still long, and you're likely to have nice weather.All attractions are still open and you'll still be able to enjoy beautiful gardens and bright flowers around the country.Visiting Ireland in OctoberAs fall shoulder season comes to an end the cooler days are a terrific time to visit Ireland! Temperatures will hover in the mid-50s, on average, and the days begin to shorten.Harvest is in full swing in most of the country so you'll find plenty of festivals leading up to Samhain, the Celtic festival that is at the root of Halloween.<img decoding="async" width="1024" height="684" src="https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Winterval17-03-1024x684.jpg" alt="Ireland Christmas Fest...

Want to tour Ireland at your own pace, but you don't want to drive? You should definitely consider hiring a driver guide in Ireland!A self-drive vacation in Ireland is not for everyone. Some groups are too large for a single vehicle while for others driving on the left on winding, narrow roads can make the vacation more stressful than relaxing.So what is the traveler to Ireland to do if they can't or don't want to drive, but want the flexibility to make suggestions and changes?You plan a trip with a private driver in Ireland!Need an estimate for a private driver? Click here! CLICK HERE to save this to your Ireland Planning Board on Pinterest!Hiring a Driver in IrelandYou will find multiple options when searching for a private guide in Ireland.From luxury chauffeur companies that offer inclusive services to independent drivers in Ireland that specialize in day tours, it is possible to find a chauffeured experience to fit your vacation goals.CLICK HERE for the Ireland driver guides I recommendHow Much Does a Private Driver in Ireland Cost?The cost of hiring a driver in Ireland has a few variables including:Number of people in group (and luggage capacity) Size of touring vehicle Day tour vs multiday tour Round trip vs one-way tourThe average cost for an 8-hour day trip for 4 people is €850.The average cost to hire a private driver for one week in Ireland for 4 people is €5950.The above prices are only estimates; some drivers charge more, some less. Costs are higher for larger groups & vehicles.How Much Should I Tip My Driver Guide in Ireland?I recommend a €100 per day gratuity for your private chauffeur for groups of 9 or fewer.If your group is 10 or more an average of €8-€10 per person per day is recommended.While that may seem like a lot it is important to consider that your driver is with you at least 8 hours a day. They manage your luggage, act as your tour guide, handle any changes or unexpected problems with your itinerary, and see to every aspect of your tour, making sure you have an exceptional, worry-free vacation.Independent private driver guides may follow a different protocol than drivers for a touring company. When in doubt inquire directly about tipping procedures.Finding the Best Private Drivers in IrelandWhen searching for a private driver in Ireland it can be difficult to make a choice based on search results.When choosing a driver guide for your Ireland vacation you want to be sure that they are fully licensed to carry passengers, fully insured (you should never have to pay extra for insurance) and provide their own vehicle (you should never have to rent the vehicle and pay the driver separately).You can, and should, request proof of licensing. You can download the TFI Driver Check app (it's free) to check the license details of taxis, limousines, and chauffeurs. If you want to bypass the hassle of searching through dozens of online results to find the best private driver for your trip, let me help you.I work with some of the best driver guides in Ireland and can connect you directly with a private driver to fit your vacation goals and budget.CLICK HERE to request an estimate for your Ireland vacationMeet the Ireland Driver Guide Companies I RecommendIreland Chauffeur Travel: Luxury Private Tours Across IrelandFor a bespoke Ireland vacation that leaves no detail overlooked, I highly recommend Ireland Chauffeur Travel—the company I personally use for my guided tours. This all-inclusive private tour company, based in Cashel, Tipperary, specializes in crafting unforgettable journeys tailored to your preferences.Ireland Chauffeur Travel handles every aspect of your trip—from creating custom itineraries to booking accommodations at 5-star hotels, manor houses, and castles (often with exclusive rates). ...

An Ireland vacation doesn't have to break your budget! Use these tips to make your Euro go farther and help you save money in Ireland!In this article you'll learn eight essential tips for saving money while traveling in Ireland. From budgeting and timing your trip to finding the best flight deals and transportation options, this practical advice helps travelers maximize their experience without overspending. You'll learn the importance of planning, gain insight on accommodations, dining, attractions, and smart shopping strategies, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the beauty of Ireland without breaking the bank.This article is also available as a podcast. To listen please scroll to the player at the bottom of the page to listen.Money Savings Tips for Ireland VacationsOne of the most powerful tools you can have to save money in Ireland is a plan! Use the ‘My Ireland Vacation Planner & Journal‘ to follow the exact steps I use to plan my own Ireland travels and tours. Save 10% with code tips10.Tip #1: Create a BudgetPerhaps the smartest thing you can do if you wish to save money on your Ireland vacation is create a budget. It's not fun, or sexy, but it will help you to understand where you money is being spent and help you to allot your funds into the things that matter.If you prefer adventure you may want to put more money into activities and tours and less into accommodations. Alternately, if you crave a luxury stay you will know how much money you have to put toward those accommodations.Your budget should include line items for flights, accommodations, meals, attractions, transportation, and souvenirs.Get my tips for planning an Ireland vacation budget plus a free simple budget download.Croagh Patrick looking beautiful in its snowy white cap (January)Tip # 2: When You Travel Makes a DifferenceTraveling during the busy, or ‘high season' always costs more. If you are serious about saving money look to the less popular shoulder seasons for your vacation. Remember – Ireland doesn't have huge weather fluctuations so traveling in early May or late September are likely to be just as nice as traveling in mid-July. Some of my favorite Ireland vacations have taken place in November and January! More information: read When is the Best Time to Visit Ireland Tip # 3: Monitor Flights to Find the Best Prices No offense to travel hackers, but I just don't have the time or patience for the airline or credit card miles game, nor am I willing to put up with multiple layovers to save a few dollars. Once I know my travel dates, I just use a few tools to do very simple flight monitoring. I check every route and airport that I could conceivably use and set flight alerts. Then I watch those routes to understand what the average price is so that when a deal comes up I am ready to grab my tickets. Learn my flight monitoring tricks and tools in the article Booking Your Flight to Ireland.Even tour buses cross the river on Shannon FerriesTip #4: Save Money on Transportation in IrelandIf you plan to self-drive book your car rental early to obtain the best rates (supply and demand during the busy summer months drives costs up as the dates get closer).Rent a manual transmission vehicle – but only if you know how to drive one! Ireland is NOT the place to learn to drive a stick shift! Rent the smallest vehicle you (and your family/ group) will be comfortable in. DO NOT skimp on a car that is too small – you will pay more to upgrade at the rental lot (if there is even availability to do so!). Don't rent a car for longer than you need. You do not need a car in Dublin – the city is very compact and walkable, and you will just be paying more to park it. Compare costs for one-way rentals and consider taking the bus or train to Galway, Limerick, or even Killarney and returning to Dublin at the end of your travels. If your credit card has car rental coverage in Ireland (most do not) you can certainly use that instead of purchasing CDW. Just understand that the rental company will place a large hold on your credit card. If you don't have credit card coverage DO NOT refuse CDW Excess to save a few dollars. In the long run it could cost you thousands. Use a comparison tool like Auto Europe or Discover Cars <rect fill="wh...

If you're planning to visit Ireland in 2025 you need these Ireland travel tips before you begin booking!Below you'll learn about the new requirement for visiting Northern Ireland (and the UK), the days I recommend you NOT be in Dublin, and what's new in 2025.You'll also get handy tips on booking everything from accommodations to attractions.CLICK HERE to save this to your Ireland vacation planning board on Pinterest.Jody Halsted – Ireland Family Vacations and the Traveling in Ireland podcast.In case you're wondering why you would want to get your Ireland travel advice from me…My name is Jody Halsted, and I am an Ireland destination specialist. I have been traveling to and through Ireland for over 22 years (!!), publish Ireland Family Vacations, host the Traveling in Ireland podcast, assist hundreds of travelers with their Ireland vacations each year and, occasionally, I also host small group tours through Ireland.That's a lot! But Ireland travel is my passion; and my goal -100% – is to help you have an amazing Ireland vacation. And I have quite a few ways to do that.My website, Ireland Family Vacations, is a complete resource for Ireland vacation planning – filled with information on what to do & see as well as handy tips for planning your trip and free itineraries to get your plans in motion quickly. (Don't let the name fool you! I travel through Ireland solo, with my husband, with my family, and hosting small group tours. Whatever your group size or dynamic I am able to assist!)My itinerary personalization, vacation coaching, and custom itinerary creation services help you maximize your Ireland experience, and my small group guided tours are designed to not only deliver the ‘authentic' Ireland of your dreams but also introduce you to the people and hidden places that make the country so very magical.If you love the process of planning your trip the My Ireland Vacation Planner & Journal walks you step-by-step through my expert process, from when to visit and how long the perfect vacation lasts, to what to see, where to stay, and even what to eat.On a more personal note, I have 2 teenage daughters who have been traveling through Ireland with me since before they could toddle, one very supportive husband (who loves it when I plan other people's vacations because it means I'm not planning my own), and one large, very fluffy, dog who prefers we stay in the US and travel by RV so she can come along. My family at Malahide Castle.. By Aoife for Flytographer; Dublin, Ireland. All rights reserved.Now that you know all about me, let's jump into what you need to know as you consider planning an Ireland vacation in 2025!This article is also available as a podcast. To listen please scroll to the player at the bottom of the page to listen.2025 Ireland Travel Tips You NeedIreland Travel Rules & RegulationsThere are currently no health restrictions in place for North Americans traveling to or from Ireland. But we all know how quickly that can change. Bookmark these sites for travel updates:current rules for traveling to Ireland are here current rules for returning to the US after international travel are here current rules for Canadians returning home can be found hereVintage Tea Trips in DublinIn Case of CancellationRead and understand cancellation policies before booking.If booking with a credit card be aware of the cancellation coverage you may have with that card.I highly recommend purchasing travel insurance if you book tickets our tours that don't allow 100% refund if cancelled.2025 Will Be (another) Busy Year ...