Figuring out the best things to pack for Scotland can be a little bit tricky for a couple of reasons.
To start with, it’s not one-size-fits-all: A trip to a city like Edinburgh or Glasgow will be a completely different experience from one to the rugged mountains and glens of the Highlands. Plus, it’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in just one day (or even in one hour!).
I was born and raised in Scotland and have traveled the country extensively, so I know exactly which items visitors should pack for different destinations and ever-changing weather.
Here are my recommendations for what to bring on a trip across the country — from physical cash to bug spray.
A waterproof, windproof coat is a necessity.
Scotland’s landscapes are so lush in large part thanks to the year-round rain, but it’s important to choose your coat wisely so that you can enjoy the beautiful scenery without getting soggy.
Scotland can also be windy — particularly on the coast and in the mountains — so rather than bringing a thin waterproof shell, it’s best to opt for a coat that also functions as a windbreaker.
In colder weather, my go-to waterproof coat is one with padded insulation. If the weather forecast looks particularly wet, I’d also suggest bringing a pair of waterproof pants.
During warmer seasons, I usually opt for a lighter waterproof coat, which features a thin lining to help block the wind.
You should prioritize durable shoes — even in cities.
Sandals and heels might be a decent footwear choice for a lot of cities, but in Edinburgh, you’ll want something a bit sturdier.
Edinburgh’s Old Town is partly paved with cobblestones, and there are hills and staircases across the whole city — all of which warrant a durable walking shoe.
If you’re stepping into nature, worn-in hiking shoes or boots are essential. Scotland’s peaks, glens, and lochs look gorgeous, but paths are often fairly rugged even in the most popular places — such as Loch Ness and Arthur’s Seat.
The frequent rain also means that trails can get muddy quickly, so walking boots are your best bet for staying dry, safe, and comfortable.
It’s best to have some physical money on you at all times.
The vast majority of places in Scotland accept credit cards and contactless payments, but if you’re exploring somewhere that’s a bit more remote — such as small towns in the Highlands and Islands — then you can’t always rely on it.
It’s best to have a little bit of physical money on you in case you come across a cash-only shop or restaurant, and there isn’t a cash machine nearby (some smaller villages don’t have one).
Both Scottish and English banknotes, or bills, are generally accepted here.
I always recommend bringing a reusable water bottle.
Scottish tap water is not only completely safe to drink, but also absolutely delicious.
I recommend skipping bottled water and bringing a reusable bottle instead. There are even free “Top Up Taps” throughout the country, making it easy to refill your bottle whenever you need.
You likely won’t regret packing a warm hat.
Autumn and winter are the coldest seasons in Scotland, but temperatures can stay surprisingly low well into spring. Even in the warmer months, the wind can sometimes be biting up in the Highlands and down by the sea.
Unless the forecast is very hot for your entire trip, I’d suggest bringing a warm beanie hat. If you’re traveling during the winter, I’d also add a scarf and gloves to your packing list, too.
Sunglasses might not seem essential, but Scotland can get gloriously sunny sometimes.
Even though Scotland is famously rainy, the weather is very changeable, and the sun actually comes out fairly often.
To avoid being unprepared on a sunny day, make sure you’ve got sunglasses and sunscreen at the ready. (Even if the weather does turn out to be overcast for your entire trip, at least sunglasses don’t take up much suitcase space!)
If you’re going to spend time in nature in the summer, pack bug spray.
Midges can be a nuisance in certain parts of Scotland in summer. The tiny flies aren’t dangerous, but their bites are very itchy. They can usually be found around lochs and in forests, and they’re most active at dawn and dusk.
Thankfully, there are a couple of ways to keep midges away: long sleeves and bug spray. One of my favorite repellents is Smidge, a powerful spray that was developed here in Scotland.
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