10 essentials to pack for a trip to Scotland
Packing for a trip to Scotland may be a bit trickier than other places and for good reason…. we can experience all four seasons in one day! As they say in the North-east of Scotland: “if you’re not happy with the weather, wait 5 minutes!”. So, what should you pack? Of course, a lot will depend on the time of year that you’re visiting, but we’ve put together our very own ‘tongue-in-cheek’ guide to help:
1. Sunscreen lotion
Scotland in summer can get pretty hot – this year, we enjoyed temperatures of up to 30oC, though average temperatures usually reach between 15-17oC, according to Visit Scotland. Regardless of the temperature, sunscreen is a must all year round, to protect your skin from those harmful rays of the sun.
2. Umbrella
Though we’ve been having a lot of sun this Summer, we’ve also more recently started to get occasional heavy showers and periods of prolonged rain. This is quite unusual for Aberdeenshire, which is known for its drier climate, but nevertheless, it’s best to pack an umbrella just in case.
A Beanie is an easy addition to your suitcase to keep you cosy on cold days.
3. Beanie
Though Scotland tends to get good weather in the summer, it can also get cold - at any time of year - so a good-old beanie is an easy addition to your suitcase, and one that won’t take up too much space. Do be prepared for the weather – it can change very quickly; something worth remembering if you’re heading for the hills.
4. Google Maps - Offline
We’re sorry to say that 4G isn’t available absolutely everywhere – yes, we know… the kids will be disappointed (we’re working on it), but it does have its benefits, particularly when you’re on holiday! One of the downsides of this is that you may end up getting lost, so it’s a good idea to download the offline Google Maps for wherever you plan to go - so you can use them to navigate even if there’s no phone signal. Click here to find out how.
5. Golf Clubs
Known as ‘The Home of Golf’ and boasting over 550 golf courses, Scotland is the perfect location to enjoy the sport. If you’re a golfer, then golf clubs will be at the top of your packing list. If you don’t play golf, then why not give a go? Most courses have their very own PGA Professional, who’s available for lessons to golfers of all levels, including beginners. And, if golf really isn’t your thing, there’s plenty of other activities you can take part in, such as: horse-riding, paddleboarding, tennis, hill walking, and cycling, among many more. Hire options for equipment are usually available too, but it’s best to check this before you travel.
6. Midgie Cream
If you’re visiting in the summer, insect repellent is a good idea. The Scottish midge deserves its reputation for fierceness and tenacity, though thankfully it’s more populous in the North-West, where it’s wetter. Luckily, we aren’t too bothered by them in the North-east, but they can make an appearance, particularly on hot days and if you’re near water, so it’s best to be prepared.
7. Hip Flask
They say “when in Rome...” So, we’re thinking the same should apply to Scotland, and as you will know, Scotland is world famous for its whisky, so why not enjoy a tipple on the go by packing a hip flask. It’ll give you a heat on a cold day and allow you to enjoy the spirit in true “Scottish style”. Of course, this is only a good idea if you’re not going to be driving, and we don’t recommend over-doing it. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic alternative to whisky, then sample our other national drink – Barr’s Irn-Bru. An acquired taste for sure, Scotland’s best-selling soft drink is like nothing else you’ve ever tasted before!
8. Comfy Shoes
If you’re planning to enjoy Scotland on foot, then be sure to look after your feet by wearing comfortable shoes! There’s no better way to explore our countryside, castles, and towns, than on foot, but this will only be enjoyable if you pack your comfies!
9. A Camera
We’re biased, but we think that Scotland is one of the most beautiful countries of all. It has amazing photo opportunities, and thanks to the weather, every day is different. If you’re planning on bagging some Munros, visiting some castles, or walking along some of our sandy beaches, there will be some spectacular views to capture on camera, helping to instil those memories for good.
10. A Haggis Catcher
If you’re heading for the Scottish Hills, you’ll need to look out for ‘The Haggis’ – it’s a wee lopsided furry creature that you’ll find buried in the heathers. It is rumoured that they are becoming a protected species, so we would recommend taking along some sort of ‘haggis catcher’ to help us Scots save our haggis.
Thankfully, you won’t need any fancy traps or cages - a basic fishing net will do the job perfectly! All you need to do, is capture the haggis and transport it to safety. Speak to any local, and they’ll be able to advise. Save the haggis!
We hope some of the above ideas will help you pack for your forthcoming experience of Scotland, but don’t worry too much if you forget anything – we can help you find the nearest supplier to fit your needs.
The most important thing of all is to bring your sense of adventure, and to enjoy your holiday!
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A basic fishing net can double up as a haggis catcher!
