If you decide to rent a car, you’ll have to go to the petrol pump… It’s an often painful process, and one that’s hard on your wallet. However, there are a few tips you need to know about to avoid major setbacks that could blow your budget, or simply cause you to break down in the middle of Connemara… So here are a few tips on what you need to know to fill up without breaking the bank in Ireland…
In the Republic of Ireland, petrol (unleaded 95) is generally cheaper than in France (by around 10%). This is not the case for diesel, which is more heavily taxed and does not benefit from the same tax regime as in France.
That’s why we advise you, when renting a car, to insist on a vehicle running on unleaded 95 or 98. This will save you unnecessary expenses in the Republic of Ireland.
In Northern Ireland, however, both petrol and diesel are more expensive than in the Republic of Ireland. That’s why we advise you to fill up before crossing the border. There are no small savings!
Gasoline can only be purchased at service stations. Few supermarkets have service stations.
In general, the service is self-service, and all you have to do afterwards is pay at the service station counter (on the same model as in France or Belgium).
However, if you venture into remote areas, we recommend that you always have more than half a tank of petrol in your tank, as there are fewer service stations in some places (particularly in Connemara or on the Ring of Kerry circuit)… It would be a shame to run out of petrol in the middle of nowhere (and ruin your vacation)!
To prevent this, keep a close eye on your fuel gauge, and plan your route with a map (noting the location of nearby gas stations).
As a general rule, it’s better to make frequent stops at stations to replenish levels, rather than taking chances in remote areas.
Please note: diesel is often much more expensive than petrol.
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