A Coastal Weekend in Northern Ireland: A Trip That Fits in One Backpack

I didn’t need much this weekend—just an expandable backpack, a bit of local weather luck, and a loose plan to follow the coast. Northern Ireland gave me the rest.


📍 Day 1: Ballintoy & Carrick-a-Rede

 The first stop was Ballintoy. Tiny harbor, dramatic cliffs, and the kind of breeze that clears your mind. I walked to the famous Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, which somehow feels less about the thrill and more about standing above the Atlantic and just… pausing.

I packed light but didn’t forget to bring snacks, water, and my camera. That’s the beauty of expandable backpacks—you don’t realize how much you’ve brought until you unpack at night.

Peaceful harbor in Northern Ireland with colorful fishing boats moored along the dock.


📍 Day 2: Ballycastle

 Ballycastle was all slow cafes, sleepy boats, and seagulls louder than any tourist group. I found a seafood place right by the docks with an open-air menu and a clear view of the tides. My whole meal was under £12 and somehow felt like a luxury.

The best part? I didn’t feel like I was “doing” anything. Just walking, tasting, breathing. No rush to check off spots, just letting the weekend happen.


🧳 The Gear

I took one expandable backpack with me—the same one I use for everyday commuting. It held layers, chargers, snacks, and a light jacket for the windy parts. No bulky luggage. No airport stress.

Quiet river flowing through the countryside of Northern Ireland, with green hills on both sides.


If you're planning your own coastal escape—especially one that starts and ends in a single weekend—pack less, go slower. Northern Ireland rewards that pace.

👉 Check out this lightweight expandable backpack I used here

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