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

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

Contents

When to go to Orkney Islands, Scotland, United Kingdom

Based on the climate and weather in Orkney Islands, Scotland, United Kingdom, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Orkney Islands, Scotland, United Kingdom

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Orkney Islands, Scotland, United Kingdom by month

January

In January, Orkney Islands can be very chilly, somewhat snowy and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Orkney Islands, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In January, humidity reaches as high as 90%. There is frost about a third of the time. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, 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 Orkney Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to pick the right type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

In February, Orkney Islands can be brisk, somewhat snowy and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Orkney Islands, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In February, 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Orkney Islands. 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

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

March

March in Orkney Islands can be brisk, somewhat snowy, very rainy and somewhat hazy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. It also snows about a third of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 80% to 80% range on average. There is frost a bit less than 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Orkney Islands. 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
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you pick the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

April

If you vacation in Orkney Islands during April, you are likely to find that it is cold, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 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 half of the time and snow sometimes. 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 Orkney Islands. 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 stuff.

  • 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently available 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 places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May can be very chilly, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

June

June in Orkney Islands is crisp, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about a third of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.

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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

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. Check that you choose the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • 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

July

In July, Orkney Islands is crisp and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) and 5-10 days this month jump into the low 60s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Orkney Islands, with several 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to choose the correct type. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

If you are traveling to Orkney Islands in August, 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 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.

  • 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 these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

September

If you go to Orkney Islands in September, 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 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 Orkney Islands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice 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. Be sure to pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

October

Traveling to Orkney Islands in October, you will notice that it is pretty cool 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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. Be careful to get the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

November

November is cold and very rainy. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost occasionally. It rains about two thirds of the time and snows occasionally.

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 Orkney Islands. 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 airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties 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. Make sure to find the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

In December, Orkney Islands is cold and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Orkney Islands, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 90%. There is frost about a third of the time. Additionally, it is breezy.

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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Orkney Islands. 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 large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice 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

What to do in Orkney Islands, Scotland, United Kingdom

The Orkney Islands are a paradise for nature-lovers, history buffs, and curious travelers. This archipelago on Scotland's northeast coast is home to a plethora of ancient archaeological sites, stunning natural landscapes, and welcoming communities. If you're planning a trip to the Orkney Islands, here are some of the top tourist attractions that you won't want to miss.

1. Skara Brae - This Neolithic settlement is one of the most well-preserved examples of ancient architecture in Europe. The site was discovered in 1850 after a severe storm uncovered a series of stone houses and passageways. Today, visitors can explore the site's 5,000-year-old dwellings and learn about the daily lives of the people who lived here.

2. The Standing Stones of Stenness - This circle of megaliths dates back to the late Neolithic period and is said to have been a site of religious worship. The stones are particularly impressive at sunset when the light casts long shadows across the surrounding landscape.

3. Ring of Brodgar - Also referred to as the "Stonehenge of the North", the Ring of Brodgar is another impressive stone circle on the Orkney Islands. The site is thought to have been constructed over 4,500 years ago and is surrounded by beautiful scenery.

4. Italian Chapel - Built during World War II, this chapel was constructed by Italian prisoners of war who were interned on the Orkney Islands. The chapel is adorned with beautiful murals and stained glass windows and is a testament to the human capacity for creativity in difficult times.

5. Maeshowe - Another impressive archaeological site, Maeshowe is a chambered tomb that dates back to around 2700 BC. The tomb is famous for its runic inscriptions, which were left by Viking invaders in the 12th century.

6. Orkney Museum - Located in Kirkwall, the Orkney Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the islands. The museum has a wide range of exhibits on everything from Viking history to contemporary art.

7. Scapa Flow - This large natural harbor played a key role in both World War I and World War II. Today, visitors can explore the wrecks of sunken ships and learn about the area's military history.

8. Brough of Birsay - This small island off the coast of the Orkney mainland is home to an impressive Norse settlement, as well as stunning natural scenery. Visitors can walk across the causeway at low tide to explore the island and its historic ruins.

Whether you're interested in ancient history or natural beauty, the Orkney Islands have plenty to offer. These top tourist attractions are just a few of the many reasons why this Scottish archipelago is such a popular destination for travelers. So pack your bags and head to the Orkney Islands to experience these incredible sights and more.

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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