Caithness and Sutherland, Scotland, United Kingdom: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Caithness and Sutherland, Scotland, United Kingdom? If you're planning to go to Caithness and Sutherland, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to Caithness and Sutherland
  2. Important essentials for Caithness and Sutherland
  3. Activities for Caithness and Sutherland
  4. Caithness and Sutherland in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Caithness and Sutherland in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Caithness and Sutherland in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Caithness and Sutherland in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Caithness and Sutherland in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Caithness and Sutherland in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Caithness and Sutherland in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Caithness and Sutherland in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Caithness and Sutherland in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Caithness and Sutherland in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Caithness and Sutherland in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Caithness and Sutherland in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Caithness and Sutherland, Scotland, United Kingdom

Based on the climate and weather in Caithness and Sutherland, Scotland, United Kingdom, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Caithness and Sutherland, Scotland, United Kingdom

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Caithness and Sutherland, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Caithness and Sutherland, Scotland, United Kingdom by month

January

If you vacation in Caithness and Sutherland during January, you will probably notice that it can be very chilly and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caithness and Sutherland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to get the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

February

If you go to Caithness and Sutherland in February, you will notice that it is brisk and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caithness and Sutherland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

March

March in Caithness and Sutherland can be brisk and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caithness and Sutherland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

April

In April, Caithness and Sutherland can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Caithness and Sutherland, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caithness and Sutherland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you pick the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

May

May in this region is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caithness and Sutherland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

Traveling to Caithness and Sutherland in June, you will notice that it is crisp and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caithness and Sutherland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

If you go to Caithness and Sutherland in July, you will notice that it can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caithness and Sutherland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to find the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

August

August in Caithness and Sutherland is chilly and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caithness and Sutherland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

September

September in this region can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caithness and Sutherland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to find the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

October

In October, Caithness and Sutherland can be very chilly and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Caithness and Sutherland, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caithness and Sutherland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

November in Caithness and Sutherland is pretty cool and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caithness and Sutherland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

Traveling to Caithness and Sutherland in December, you will notice that it is brisk and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Caithness and Sutherland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Caithness and Sutherland, Scotland, United Kingdom

Caithness and Sutherland are two of the most beautiful and untouched regions in Scotland, with a rich history and a unique sense of culture. The region is home to some of Scotland’s top tourist attractions that offer visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area, the vibrant local culture, and an array of historical landmarks.

The following are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Caithness and Sutherland:

1. Dunrobin Castle

Dunrobin Castle is the largest castle in Northern Scotland and a must-visit tourist attraction in Sutherland. This beautiful castle was built in the mid-19th century and features a breathtaking Neo-Gothic architectural style. The castle is home to lavishly furnished rooms, beautiful gardens, and an extensive art collection that will take your breath away.

2. John O’Groats

John O’Groats is a small coastal village that serves as a natural starting point for any visit to Caithness and Sutherland. Visitors can take part in various activities, such as seal-watching, bird-watching, and fishing, or take a ferry ride to the beautiful Orkney Islands.

3. Smoo Cave

Smoo Cave is one of Scotland's most impressive sea caves and a natural wonder. The cave was created by a combination of erosion and a sea roof collapse, resulting in a huge chamber filled with distinctive rock formations, an underground waterfall, and a mysterious inner chamber.

4. Strathnaver Museum

The Strathnaver Museum is a small but fascinating museum that showcases the culture and history of the Strathnaver area in Sutherland. The museum is home to an extensive collection of exhibits that take visitors back in time and give them an insight into the lives of the local people.

5. Castle of Mey

The Castle of Mey was once the home of the late Queen Mother and is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Caithness. The castle is set in beautiful grounds, and visitors can explore its unique architecture, the beautiful gardens, and the fascinating museum that is dedicated to the life of the Queen Mother.

6. Duncansby Stacks

Duncansby Stacks are an impressive rock formation that sits at the edge of the eastern coast of Sutherland. These giant cliffs are a popular attraction, offering visitors magnificent panoramic views of the sea and rugged coastlines.

7. Strathmore Smiddy Museum and Visitor Centre

The Strathmore Smiddy Museum and Visitor Centre is a must-visit for those interested in the history of blacksmithing, the traditional Scottish craft. This fascinating museum and visitor center is located in the heart of the small village of Strathmore and is home to a working blacksmith’s shop that opens to visitors.

In conclusion, Caithness and Sutherland are home to some of the most awe-inspiring and unforgettable tourist attractions in Scotland. Visitors to this region are sure to have an unforgettable experience while exploring its natural beauty, rich culture, and historical landmarks. It’s no wonder that Caithness and Sutherland are becoming increasingly popular as one of Scotland’s top tourist destinations.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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