Top Travel Tips

Check-In Times
Please check your ticket or contact your airline for advice on Check-In times, but as a general guide,for European,UK and Ireland flights Check-In opens two hours before the scheduled departure time.

Passports & Visas
If you are travelling internationally, a valid passport is normally required. For some countries, your passport will need to be valid for at least six months after your intended return and you may also need a visa.

Photocopies of Important Documents
Have photocopies of all important documents (tickets, passport, visas, E111, travel insurance, driving licence, etc) and make sure they are kept separate from the originals. If there are two or more people in your party you could exchange photocopies to minimise the chance of losing all documentation. If your passport is lost or stolen you must report it to the Passport Office or your nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate . Or call the 24hr Emergency number +353 1 478 0822.

Travel insurance
The advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs is that everyone travelling abroad, for work or pleasure, should take out travel insurance before travelling.

Foreign Currency
Whilst most places accept credit and debit cards, cash is still the best way to pay for small items like taxis, snacks and tips.


Health and Medical
If you are in any doubt about travelling with an illness or medical condition you should consult your doctor. If you are on prescribed medication take enough with you for the duration of your trip, as it may not be easy or economical to get a repeat prescription for the same medication while you are overseas.

Travelling to and from Galway Airport
You can use our website to plan your journey to the airport - just select the 'To and From Airport' button at the top of the page and you will find details of all the transport options available. Remember to make a contingency plan for your journey to the airport just in case there are any road or rail delays etc.

Essential Luggage
Don't forget to pack adaptors, battery charger, first aid kit, phrase book, insect repellent and suntan lotion if appropriate for your destination.

Illegal Food Imports

If you are travelling outside the EU, you need to be aware of what food items are permitted and prohibited. Products such as meat, dairy, fish, and shellfish as well as certain plants and vegetables are prohibited and if found, will be seized. You may face severe delays, a fine and even prosecution. The Department of Agriculture is aiming to reduce the risk of exotic animal diseases, plant pests and diseases entering the country, which threaten our public health, livestock, agriculture and horticultural industries and the environment.