Renting a car in Ireland is an absolute must if you want to experience the entire country. In west Ireland, it is almost impossible to get around without one, especially from September until the beginning of summer. It is impractical to attempt to get around the country by public transportation due to lack of coordination between services, and a huge amount of time that would alone involve. For many reasons, renting a car in Ireland is the way to go.

Because renting a car in Ireland is far more expensive once you arrive, you will need to make car rental arrangements before arriving in the country. You always want to make clear when you get your car that you plan on using it to visit both the Irish Republic and Northern Ireland if that is your plan.

Renting a car is especially important to visit Western Ireland, as its beautiful and scenic routes are must-sees. Don't set too tight of a schedule for such an excursion: you might be held up by livestock crossings or by your own detours, upon taking in such splendor.

Some exceptions to renting a car include if you are only visiting Dublin, where public transportation is fairly easy. However, since to take in all that the country really is it is recommended to explore as much as possible of the country.

Some car rental agencies that you can reserve while at home are:

Alamo (Phone: 1-800-327-9633)

Avis (Phone: 1-800-331-1212)

Budget (Phone: 1-800-527-0700)

Hertz (Phone: 1-800-654-3131)

National (Phone: 1-800-227-7368)

Some car rental rules to remember:

You are most often held responsible for any damage or loss of the vehicle so it is wise to insure vehicles.

In Northern Ireland your own driver's license is acceptable! An International Driver's License is always a good idea, however.

Most rental companies require that you are at least 23 years old and have had a license for a year. Many companies also refuse to rent to those over 70.