What to pack for the Scottish Highlands

Your packing list for the Highlands of Scotland

If you’re visiting Scotland for the first time, we’re here to help with this handy packing list, as part of our “know before you go” guide. Make sure you bring along the right clothes, accessories and travel essentials for your journey. Then you’ll be ready for anything!

Clothes

When it comes to packing for your holiday to the Scottish Highlands, it’s all about the layers. That’s because the weather here is famously unpredictable. It can be sunshine one minute and snow the next! If you layer up, you can simply add and remove layers depending on the current conditions.

  • Casual clothing: shirts, trousers, skirts, t-shirts, shorts
  • A few dressier items for evenings out
  • Coat, suitable for the season
  • Waterproof jacket with a hood
  • Warm jumper or fleece
  • Sturdy, waterproof footwear
  • Swim suit if you’re planning to go swimming.
  • Don’t forget your nightwear, socks and underwear!
Clothes being packed away in a suitcase
Packing layers means you’re prepared whatever the weather.

Accessories

You’ll need good, strong luggage to keep all your things safe. Plus, accessories for all weathers, from sunglasses to warm hats and gloves. Top tip: a good rain jacket with a hood will serve you much better than an umbrella in the windy Scottish Highlands!

  • Large, waterproof travel bag
  • Smaller backpack for day trips
  • Sunglasses
  • Sun cream and midge repellent (in summer)
  • Scarf, hat and gloves (especially in autumn and winter)
  • Thermos flask and water bottle
Someone writing a packing list on a notepad
Get organised in advance with a travel packing list

Travel essentials

Out in the rugged landscapes of the Highlands, you can’t always rely on technology. A Wi-Fi signal, for example, can be non-existent in the more remote areas. So it’s a good idea to take a map and compass out when walking, to ensure you don’t get lost.

  • UK power adaptor
  • Phone and camera
  • Battery pack for extra charge
  • Binoculars
  • Map of Scotland and compass
  • Travel documents such as tickets and passport
  • Money (currency, pound sterling £)
A map of Scotland with a magnifying glass
Keep a map and compass in your bag when travelling in remote areas.

If you’re looking for a convenient base in the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is perfect! It’s lively and compact, easy to reach. and has all the facilities and amenities you would expect from a great Scottish city, including places to stay, eat and drink. However, the wild and remote Scottish Highlands is right on its doorstep. So you really do get the best of both worlds. Take a look at our luxury Inverness accommodation and special offers and book your break today!