What to pack for Scotland
Seasonal packing guide with practical advice from the Highlands. What you actually need, what you can skip.
Scotland’s weather is changeable. Four seasons in one day is not a joke – it happens regularly. The good news is that you do not need specialist outdoor gear for most visits. You just need to make sensible choices and understand one principle: layers.
Layering is the single most important thing to get right. The temperature can shift ten degrees between a sheltered glen and an exposed hilltop, or between morning and afternoon. If you can add and remove layers easily, you will be comfortable all day. Get this right and the rest is detail.
This guide covers what to pack season by season, with a practical checklist and honest advice on what you can leave at home. It is based on years of taking visitors around the Highlands in every season.
Prefer not to drive? Private chauffeur options.
The golden rule: layers
Three layers handle almost everything Scotland can throw at you. The key is avoiding cotton next to the skin – it absorbs moisture, stays wet and gets cold fast. That is miserable in Highland weather.
Base layer
Merino wool or synthetic. Wicks sweat away from the skin and dries quickly. Avoid cotton – it holds moisture and chills you when the wind picks up.
Mid layer
Fleece or lightweight down jacket. Provides insulation. Easy to remove when the sun comes out and stuff into a bag when you do not need it.
Outer layer
A waterproof jacket. This is non-negotiable. It does not need to be expensive – just windproof and waterproof with a hood. You will use it more than any other item.
Season by season
What to expect and what to prioritise in your bag. Daylight hours vary hugely by season – factor that into your plans too.
Spring
March – May · 5–18°C
Still cold mornings, especially in March. Waterproof jacket essential. May can be genuinely warm – 20°C+ in settled spells. Sunglasses for bright spring days. Showers are frequent but often short.
Summer
June – August · 12–22°C
Can be warmer than people expect – 25°C+ in heat waves. Still need a waterproof, rain comes without warning. Midges appear: pack long sleeves for evenings and repellent (Smidge or Avon Skin So Soft). Sun cream is a must – you can burn in Scotland, even on overcast days.
Autumn
September – November · 5–14°C
Beautiful colours but the weather turns. Warmer layers needed by October. Wind picks up, especially on the coast. Good walking shoes are essential – paths get muddy. A buff or scarf earns its place.
Winter
December – February · -2 to 7°C
Warm coat, hat, gloves and scarf. Thermal base layers make a real difference. Daylight is short – plan around it. Ice on paths is common; grippy footwear matters. Roads can be affected by snow in the Highlands.
Essential packing list
Clothing
- Waterproof jacket with hood
- Layers – base, mid and outer
- Comfortable walking trousers
- Warm hat and gloves (Oct–Apr)
- Scarf or buff
Footwear
- Waterproof walking shoes or boots – you will encounter wet ground
- Comfortable shoes for towns
- Thick socks (merino or wool blend)
Weather gear
- Compact umbrella (though wind often makes them useless)
- Sunglasses
- Sun cream – yes, even in Scotland
Midges (May–Sep)
- Smidge repellent or Avon Skin So Soft
- Midge net if going remote
- Long sleeves for evenings
Driving and touring
- Comfortable clothes for long days in the vehicle
- Camera
- Binoculars for wildlife
Electronics
- UK plug adapter (Type G, three-pin)
- Portable charger – remote areas have limited charging
Documents
- Passport or ID
- Driving licence if self-driving
- Travel insurance details
What you can leave at home
Formal clothes
Scotland is relaxed. Even nice restaurants and hotels are smart casual. You will not need a suit, cocktail dress or formal shoes.
Heavy hiking boots
Unless you plan serious hill walking or Munro bagging, waterproof walking shoes are lighter and more versatile. Save the space.
Expensive white trainers
Mud and rain will ruin them. Stick to dark, practical footwear that you do not mind getting dirty.
Too many outfits
Laundry is easy to find in towns and most accommodation offers it. Pack light and wash as you go. You will thank yourself on travel days.
FAQ
Do I need waterproofs in summer?
Yes. Rain in Scotland does not follow seasons. A lightweight waterproof jacket that packs down small is the single most useful thing in your bag, whatever the month.
What shoes should I pack for Scotland?
Waterproof walking shoes are the single most useful item. You want something comfortable for 10,000+ steps on uneven ground. Trainers are fine for towns, but you will want grip and waterproofing for anything outdoors.
Is it cold in Scotland in summer?
Cooler than most people expect. Average summer temperatures are 12–20°C. Evenings can be chilly, especially near the coast or at altitude. Always have a layer with you.
Do I need a midge net?
Only if you plan to be outdoors in remote areas at dawn or dusk in summer. Most visitors manage fine with repellent and long sleeves. If you are particularly sensitive, a net is cheap insurance.
What plug adapter do I need for Scotland?
Type G – the UK three-pin plug. They are available cheaply at airports and most shops. If you are travelling from Europe or North America, you will need one for all your devices.
Should I pack formal clothes for Scotland?
Rarely needed. Even upmarket restaurants and hotels are smart casual. A nice pair of trousers and a collared shirt is plenty for any evening out.
Can I buy things I forget when I arrive?
Yes. Inverness, Edinburgh, Glasgow and most towns have outdoor shops, pharmacies and supermarkets. You can pick up waterproofs, sun cream and midge spray easily. Prices are reasonable.
How much luggage can I bring on a private tour?
Our Mercedes V-Class has a large boot. Standard luggage for the group is fine. Let us know if you have golf bags or oversized items so we can plan ahead.
Let us handle the logistics
Private chauffeur and touring from Inverness. Travel light, travel well.