What to pack for Scotland
You can have four seasons in a day in Scotland. Pack in layers, bring proper waterproofs, and you will be comfortable in almost anything the weather does.
The essentials, all year
- A waterproof jacket with a hood. Breathable, genuinely waterproof, not just showerproof. This is the most important item you will bring.
- Layers: a couple of base layers, a fleece or light insulated jacket, and a warm mid-layer. Layers let you adapt as the day changes.
- Comfortable waterproof footwear with grip. Walking shoes or light boots are fine for most paths. For the hills, proper walking boots.
- Waterproof trousers if you plan to walk anywhere outside town.
- Hat and gloves, even in summer if you are going on boats or up hills.
- Sunglasses and sun cream. Summer days are long and the light is strong.
- A small day pack and a reusable water bottle. Tap water is excellent everywhere.
- UK plug adaptor (type G, three square pins).
Summer additions (May to September)
- Midge repellent and a head net if you are going to the west Highlands or islands.
- A light jumper for evenings, which are cool even after warm days.
- Swimwear, if you are brave. The sea is cold all year.
- An eye mask, if you struggle to sleep in light. In June it barely gets dark in the north.
Winter additions (November to March)
- A warm insulated coat, thermal base layers, a warm hat and gloves.
- Footwear with good grip for icy pavements.
- A head torch. Daylight is short and rural roads and paths are unlit.
If you are driving
- Your driving licence, and an International Driving Permit if your licence requires one in the UK.
- Offline maps downloaded on your phone. Signal is patchy in the Highlands.
- A phone charger for the car.
- Some snacks and water. Shops can be far apart.
What you can leave at home
- An umbrella, mostly. The wind turns them inside out. A good hood is better.
- Smart clothes, unless you have a special dinner booked. Scotland is informal.
- Lots of cash. Cards and contactless payment are accepted almost everywhere, though carrying a little cash for small rural shops, honesty boxes and car parks is still wise.