Winter Driving in Ireland: Safety Tips for Ice, Snow & Short Days

Winter driving in Ireland presents unique challenges: rain, fog, occasional ice and snow, and dramatically shorter days. But with preparation and adjusted techniques, you can safely enjoy Ireland's stunning winter landscapes.

Winter Conditions in Ireland

What to Expect

Daylight Hours

Plan drives for daylight hours when possible. Navigating unfamiliar Irish roads in darkness adds significant challenge.

Vehicle Preparation

Before Your Trip

• Check tyre tread depth (minimum 1.6mm, 3mm+ recommended)
• Verify tyre pressures (check when cold)
• Test all lights work (headlights, brake lights, indicators, fog lights)
• Top up screenwash with winter formula
• Check wipers aren't worn
• Ensure battery is healthy
• Keep fuel tank at least half full

Rental Car Checks

Before leaving the depot:

• Locate headlight controls and fog light switch
• Test wipers and washers
• Check you have de-icer or scraper (ask if not)
• Know where the hazard light button is

Essential Winter Kit

Keep in the Car

• Ice scraper and de-icer
• Torch with spare batteries
• Phone charger (car adapter)
• Warm blanket
• High-visibility vest
• First aid kit
• Snacks and water
• Warm clothing layers

For Mountain/Remote Routes

Add to the above:

• Jump leads
• Warning triangle
• Basic tool kit
• Shovel (if snow expected)
• Snow socks/chains (for mountain passes)

Driving Techniques

In Heavy Rain

Ireland's winter brings frequent heavy rain:

Speed: Reduce by 10-20% Distance: Increase following distance to 4+ seconds Visibility: Use dipped headlights (not just sidelights) Spray: Prepare for spray from lorries and buses Aquaplaning: If steering feels light, ease off accelerator—don't brake

Flood warnings:

• Never drive through flowing water
• If water is still, test depth with a stick first
• Drive slowly through shallow water, keeping revs high

In Fog

Fog is common on Irish winter mornings, especially inland:

Lights:

• Use dipped headlights (NOT full beam—reflects back)
• Use rear fog lights when visibility below 100m
• Turn off fog lights when visibility improves (they dazzle)

Speed: Match visibility—if you can only see 50m, drive at 50km/h max

Distance: Triple your normal following distance

Don't: Follow the car ahead too closely just to see their lights

On Ice

Ice is most likely:

• Early morning on untreated roads
• On bridges and overpasses (freeze first)
• In shaded areas that haven't thawed
• On rural roads that aren't gritted

If you hit ice:

• Stay calm
• Don't brake harshly or accelerate
• Steer gently in the direction you want to go
• Use engine braking (lower gears) if safe

Black ice is invisible. If temperatures are near freezing and roads look wet but aren't reflecting, assume ice.

In Snow

Snow is rare at sea level but possible inland and in mountains:

Before setting out:

• Clear ALL snow from the car (including roof)
• Ensure windows and mirrors are completely clear

Driving:

• Use highest gear possible (less wheel spin)
• Accelerate and brake gently
• Leave massive following distance (10+ seconds)
• Approach hills steadily—don't stop and restart
• Going downhill, use low gear and engine braking

Getting unstuck:

• Rock gently between reverse and first
• Use floor mats for grip if needed
• Don't spin wheels—dig out instead

Short Days Strategy

Plan Around Light

• Start early to maximise daylight
• Schedule major driving for midday
• Reach accommodation before dark when possible
• Keep evening drives short and on main roads

Dawn and Dusk

The most challenging times:

• Low sun creates blinding glare
• Wildlife more active (deer, sheep)
• Frost forming as temperature drops
• Other drivers adjusting to changing light

Use sun visor, drive slower, and be extra vigilant.

Route Considerations

Mountain Roads in Winter

Routes like Wicklow Mountains, Connor Pass, and Donegal Highlands can be treacherous:

• Check conditions before setting out
• Some mountain passes close in snow/ice
• Have alternative routes planned
• Don't attempt if conditions are poor

Coastal Routes in Winter

Wild Atlantic Way and coastal routes face different challenges:

• Strong winds, especially on exposed stretches
• Salt spray affecting visibility
• Storm surges occasionally close roads
• Spectacular but demanding driving

Recommended Winter Routes

Easier routes for winter driving:

• Boyne Valley - Inland, good roads
• Cork Harbour & Kinsale - Mild southern climate
• Dublin Bay & Howth - Urban, well-maintained

Weather Resources

Before You Drive

• Met Éireann (met.ie) - Official Irish weather service
• AA Roadwatch - Real-time road conditions
• RSA.ie - Road Safety Authority updates
• Local radio - Traffic and weather reports

Weather Warnings

Met Éireann issues colour-coded warnings:

• Yellow: Be aware
• Orange: Be prepared
• Red: Take action—don't travel unless essential

Take red warnings seriously. They're rare and mean genuine danger.

If Conditions Deteriorate

While Driving

1. Slow down gradually
2. Increase following distance
3. Turn on appropriate lights
4. Consider stopping safely

If You Must Stop

• Find a safe location (car park, layby)
• Don't stop on the hard shoulder unless emergency
• Turn on hazard lights
• Stay in vehicle if safer than outside
• Keep engine running for heat (ensure exhaust is clear)

Getting Help

• Save breakdown number before you need it
• 999/112 for emergencies
• Inform someone of your route and ETA

Winter-Specific Tips

Early Mornings

• Allow extra time for de-icing
• Don't drive with misted windows
• Give yourself time to warm up and focus

Rural Roads

• More likely to be untreated
• More likely to have ice in shaded areas
• More likely to encounter livestock

Ferries

If your route includes a ferry:

• Check ferry operating in bad weather
• Book flexibility if possible
• Arrive early (bad weather can cause delays)

The Bottom Line

Winter driving in Ireland is manageable with preparation. The keys:

1. Prepare: Vehicle, kit, and yourself
2. Plan: Check forecasts, allow extra time
3. Patience: Slow down, don't rush
4. Prudence: If conditions are bad, delay or change plans

Ireland's winter landscapes are beautiful and uncrowded. With the right approach, you can enjoy them safely.

Related Guides

• Driving Rules in Ireland
• Roadside Emergencies
• Navigation Apps