Staycations Are Back – Here’s Why Ireland Is Perfect for a Road Trip
Forget packing passports or long airport queues – this year, Irish holidays are staying Irish. Fresh research commissioned by Enterprise Mobility shows over half of Irish holidaymakers (56%) are planning a staycation in 2026. So if you’ve been dreaming of wild coastlines, charming villages, and spontaneous pit-stops, now’s the time to put the keys in the ignition.
Why We’re Keeping It Local
One big reason: freedom. A massive 42% of people surveyed say the best thing about having a car is travelling at your own pace. No timetables, no connections – just pure flexibility.
And let’s be honest, some of Ireland’s finest spots are off the beaten track. Nearly one in five holidaymakers love how a car gets them to those hard-to-reach beaches and scenic Atlantic viewpoints. Another 26% say they use their wheels to explore nearby villages on the fly – grab a coffee, stretch the legs, and back on the road when the mood strikes.
In short: If adventure and flexibility are on your holiday checklist, driving wins every time.
Top Irish Road Trip Destinations
Our favourite staycation spots are no secret – The Kingdom leads the way, with 17% naming Kerry as their number one county for a getaway. Galway comes in at 13% followed by Dublin on 12%. Cork and Donegal also shine, sharing 9% each. And for the “must-see” list?
- Ring of Kerry – sweeping coastal bends and those jaw-dropping viewpoints.
- Cliffs of Moher – iconic and still capable of taking your breath away.
- Giant’s Causeway – a natural masterpiece with a drive worth the miles.
Heading south-west is the most popular choice overall: Munster dominates with 37% picking it for 2026 road trip adventures.
Staycations by Generation
It’s not one size fits all. Kerry seems to most appeal to the over-65 crowd, rising to nearly a quarter of votes among this group. Younger staycationers (18–34) are favouring Dublin for the buzz, nightlife, and foodie scene – almost one in five named it as their top spot.
The Big Trends Behind It All
Why now? A mix of practical and cultural shifts:
- Price pressure – flights aren’t always great value anymore.
- Security – global travel uncertainty is putting us off long haul flights
- Social media effect – TikTok and Insta reels are turning 'hidden gems' into major bucket-list spots (think Mayo beaches or Clare cliffs).
Top Tips for a Smooth Road Trip
Watch traffic – 30% of us say it’s the biggest headache. Early starts or off-peak routes are your friend.
Pick the right wheels – city breaks = compact car, family in tow = roomy SUV or MPV.
Plan for spontaneity – best memories come from those unplanned stops, so give yourself a bit of wiggle room.
So if you’re making Ireland your holiday playground this year, you’ll want the freedom to roam. From the Wild Atlantic Way to urban breaks with a twist, having the right car sets the tone for a brilliant staycation.
As Brendan Grieve, Vice President and General Manager for Enterprise Mobility puts it:
“People want to explore at their own pace and make the most of what’s on their doorstep.”
Ready to hit the road? Book your car today and start planning your next Irish adventure.
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