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

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Ready to pack for Fort William, Scotland, United Kingdom? If you're planning to go to Fort William, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Fort William, Scotland, United Kingdom

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

What to wear/what to pack for Fort William, Scotland, United Kingdom

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Fort William, Scotland, United Kingdom by month

January

In January, Fort William is brisk and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Fort William, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In January, humidity reaches as high as 90%. There is frost 5-10 days this month. Additionally, it is windy.

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 airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Fort William. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option 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 find the correct type. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you see the West Highland Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in Fort William is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Fort William. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to get the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

If you see the West Highland Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you vacation in Fort William during March, you are likely to see that it can be very chilly and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time and snow occasionally. There is frost once in a while.

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 Fort William. 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to find the correct type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the West Highland Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Fort William is brisk and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Fort William. 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to find the necessary kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the West Highland Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you are traveling to Fort William in May, you will notice that it is chilly and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Fort William. 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 penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you pick the right type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the West Highland Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you are traveling to Fort William in June, you will notice that it is chilly and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Fort William. 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to pick the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the West Highland Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

In July, Fort William is cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (high 10s C) and once in a while jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Fort William, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

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 bit of 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 Fort William. 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 luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you find the correct type. Most adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

If you see the West Highland Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in this region can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 60s 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Fort William. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

If you see the West Highland Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

Traveling to Fort William in September, you will notice that it is cool and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 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 stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Fort William. 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 constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you pick the correct type. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the West Highland Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you are traveling to Fort William in October, you will notice that it can be brisk and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Fort William. 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

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 pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

If you see the West Highland Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you visit Fort William during November, you are likely to notice that it can be very chilly and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 80 and 90% during the day. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Fort William. 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

  • 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. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

If you see the West Highland Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

In December, Fort William is cold and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Fort William, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 90%. There is frost 5-10 days this month. Additionally, it is windy.

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 Fort William. 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to pick the right kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the West Highland Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Fort William, Scotland, United Kingdom

Fort William is a picturesque town located in the Scottish Highlands, known for its dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor recreational opportunities. As the gateway to Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles, it's no surprise that Fort William is a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and adventure seekers. But there's much more to this charming town than just its natural beauty. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Fort William, Scotland.

1. Ben Nevis

No visit to Fort William is complete without climbing the majestic Ben Nevis. Standing at 4,411 feet tall, the mountain is a challenge for even the most experienced hikers. The most popular route to the summit is the Pony Track, which offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery. If you're not up for the climb, you can still enjoy the mountain from a distance by taking a scenic drive or hike around its base.

2. Glen Nevis

Located at the foot of Ben Nevis, Glen Nevis is a lush valley that offers plenty of hiking and cycling trails. The area is also home to several waterfalls, including Steall Falls, which is one of the tallest waterfalls in Scotland. You can also enjoy a picnic or relax by the riverbank and soak up the tranquil atmosphere.

3. Nevis Range

For those seeking adventure, Nevis Range offers a range of outdoor activities, including mountain biking, skiing, and snowboarding. The mountain resort also has a gondola that takes visitors up to the top of Aonach Mor, where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Scottish Highlands.

4. West Highland Museum

If you're interested in learning more about the history and culture of the Scottish Highlands, a visit to the West Highland Museum is a must. The museum showcases the rich heritage of the region through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays. Highlights include the Jacobite collection, which chronicles the Bonnie Prince Charlie uprising, and the Commando collection, which honors the WWII Commando unit that trained in the area.

5. Jacobite Steam Train

Fans of the Harry Potter movies will recognize the Jacobite Steam Train, which was featured in the films as the Hogwarts Express. But even if you're not a movie buff, you'll enjoy the scenic, 84-mile round trip from Fort William to Mallaig, which takes you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in Scotland.

6. Loch Linnhe

Fort William is located on the shores of Loch Linnhe, a 31-mile-long sea loch that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline or explore the water by boat, kayak, or paddleboard. The area is also known for its wildlife, and you might spot seals, otters, or dolphins if you're lucky.

7. Old Inverlochy Castle

Located just a few miles from Fort William, Old Inverlochy Castle is a ruined castle that dates back to the 13th century. The castle played a significant role in the Wars of Scottish Independence, and visitors can explore the remains of the fortifications and learn about its history through interpretive displays.

In conclusion, Fort William is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to explore the great outdoors or immerse themselves in Scottish history and culture. With its stunning landscapes, exciting outdoor activities, and rich cultural heritage, there's something for everyone in this charming Scottish town.

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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