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

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

Contents

When to go to Scottish Highlands, Scotland, United Kingdom

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

What to wear/what to pack for Scottish Highlands, Scotland, United Kingdom

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Scottish Highlands, Scotland, United Kingdom by month

January

If you vacation in Scottish Highlands during January, you will probably find that it is brisk 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 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • 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 Scottish Highlands. 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 bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to pick the correct kind. Most adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

February

February here can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Scottish Highlands. 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 frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters 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 should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

If you go to Scottish Highlands in March, you will notice that it can be brisk and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 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.

  • 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly 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 Scottish Highlands. 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 amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to choose the correct kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

In April, Scottish Highlands is brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Scottish Highlands, 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.

  • 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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things 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 Scottish Highlands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you get the right type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

May

May for Scottish Highlands is crisp 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.

  • 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 Scottish Highlands. 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 luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 right kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

June

If you are traveling to Scottish Highlands in June, you will notice that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 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 Scottish Highlands. 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 frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts 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. Make sure to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

July

July here is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 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 luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Scottish Highlands. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • 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 penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Most adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

August

In August, Scottish Highlands is cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Scottish Highlands, 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you choose the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

September

If you vacation in Scottish Highlands during September, you are likely to see that it can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Scottish Highlands. 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money 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

October

If you go to Scottish Highlands in October, you will notice that it is pretty cool and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half 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.

  • 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 Scottish Highlands. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to find the right kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

If you vacation in Scottish Highlands during November, you might notice that it is cold and very rainy. 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). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it 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.

  • 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 Scottish Highlands. 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 bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: 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 adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you find the necessary type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave 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

December

If you are traveling to Scottish Highlands in December, you will notice that it is cold and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Scottish Highlands. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

What to do in Scottish Highlands, Scotland, United Kingdom

The Scottish Highlands are renowned for their stunning scenery, rich culture, and ancient history. With so many fascinating attractions to explore, it’s no wonder that this region is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the top tourist attractions in the Scottish Highlands.

1. Loch Ness

No trip to the Scottish Highlands is complete without visiting Loch Ness – the world-famous lake that’s said to be home to the elusive Loch Ness Monster. Even if you don’t spot the monster, you’ll still be able to enjoy the breathtaking scenery that surrounds the lake. You can take a cruise on the water or simply explore the shore on foot.

2. Urquhart Castle

Located on the banks of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is a stunning medieval ruin that’s steeped in history. The castle dates back to the 13th century and has been the site of many important battles and sieges. Guided tours of the castle are available, giving visitors the chance to learn more about its rich past.

3. Glenfinnan Viaduct

Fans of the Harry Potter films will recognize Glenfinnan Viaduct as the location of the Hogwarts Express steam train. The viaduct is a truly stunning piece of engineering, with its arches spanning the valley below. You can take a train ride over the viaduct or enjoy a hike along one of the many scenic trails in the area.

4. Skye Island

Skye Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Scottish Highlands. This stunning island is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in Scotland, from rugged coastlines to dramatic mountain ranges. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities on the island, including hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching.

5. Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic castles, with its stunning location on a small island at the entrance to Loch Duich. The castle dates back to the 13th century and has been featured in numerous films and TV shows. Visitors can take a tour of the castle and learn more about its fascinating history.

6. Culloden Battlefield

The Battle of Culloden was a defining moment in Scottish history, and a visit to the battlefield is a must for history buffs. The battlefield has been carefully preserved and visitors can see the markers that denote the positions of the opposing armies. The visitor center offers a range of exhibits and interactive displays that bring the battle to life.

7. Ben Nevis

Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the UK, reaching a height of 1,345 meters. Hiking to the summit is a popular activity for visitors to the Scottish Highlands, although it’s not for the faint-hearted. The view from the top is truly breathtaking and certainly worth the effort.

Conclusion

The Scottish Highlands are a treasure trove of must-see tourist attractions. From the stunning natural scenery to the rich cultural heritage, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region of Scotland. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for an unforgettable adventure, the Scottish Highlands are the perfect destination.

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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