A new study by a popular adventure travel brand has revealed just how many Irish travellers make these packing mistakes and what you can do to avoid them this summer
Craghoppers Travel Survey(Image: Cullen Communications)
A new study has revealed that many Irish adventure travellers make these common holiday packing mistakes, leaving them sunburnt, bitten, and uncomfortable during their time away.
The survey findings shed light on the multi-billion-euro adventure travel market, which continues to surge in popularity as more travellers – including those from Ireland – set their sights on trips that offer a mix of culture, nature, local heritage and outdoor experiences.
Over half of travellers (52%) have been bitten by mosquitoes and other insects abroad, and 55% have ended up packing the wrong wardrobe for the occasion.
The Craghoppers travel survey shows that 48% of travellers have been caught out by unexpected weather on a trip, while 46% say intense sunshine and heat have affected their comfort on holiday, pointing to a planning gap between expectations and reality.
34% admit they routinely overpack with ‘just in case’ items, while 41% say they feel stressed when preparing for a trip.
44% of travellers say the presence of stinging or biting insects, such as mosquitoes, directly influences where they choose to travel, as more Irish holidaymakers are now factoring certain aspects into their packing.
When it comes to what type of clothing we’re packing, the survey highlights a clear disconnect between intention and preparation.
While 58% of travellers say comfort is a priority when choosing what to pack, 55% still find themselves uncomfortable upon arrival, mainly because they didn’t pack breathable clothes.
Even higher on the list of packing priorities is sun protection, with 62% saying it is non-negotiable when travelling, and comfortable footwear, with 58% of survey respondents saying the right shoes are essential for any trip.
According to the survey, 78% of respondents say they would choose outerwear based on its affordability and overall value, while 61% cite durability as a major consideration, highlighting a strong focus on cost-conscious decision-making.
Brian Fox, Managing Director at Craghoppers Ireland, said: “Adventure travel is more about creating an immersive experience that allows you to really taste and feel a local culture, rather than necessarily chasing extreme or high-adrenaline activities.
“Our research shows that Irish adventure travellers are putting more thought into where they are going and why they want to explore that place, but it also suggests that a lot of preparation still comes down to guesswork. That is where things can go wrong, leading to uncomfortable or stressful situations.
“It’s important to try and pack the right gear for the specific conditions you’ll be facing rather than trying to plan for all eventualities and ending up carrying too much luggage. The more prepared you are, the more you can travel with confidence.”
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