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

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Shapinsay, Scotland, United Kingdom? If you're planning to go to Shapinsay, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Shapinsay, Scotland, United Kingdom

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

What to wear/what to pack for Shapinsay, Scotland, United Kingdom

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in Shapinsay can be brisk, somewhat snowy and very rainy. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost a bit less than half of the time. It rains about two thirds of the time and snows 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shapinsay. 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 nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. Many adapters available are simply plugs 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.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

If you are traveling to Shapinsay in February, you will notice that it can be very chilly, somewhat snowy and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time and snow a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C). There is frost 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.

  • 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 nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shapinsay. 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
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you find the correct kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to change 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

In March, Shapinsay is brisk, somewhat snowy, very rainy and somewhat hazy. 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 Shapinsay, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 80%. There is frost a bit less than half 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: 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 Shapinsay. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to pick the correct type. Most adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

If you vacation in Shapinsay during April, you will probably notice that it is brisk, 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 sometimes.

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 these days, an AirTag can find 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 Shapinsay. 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 things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

May

If you vacation in Shapinsay during May, you will probably see that it is brisk, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s 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 a third 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 Shapinsay. 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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find 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 voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you choose the right kind. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow 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 amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

June

In June, Shapinsay is cool, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) and occasionally jump into the low 60s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Shapinsay, with several of the days of the month having rain. In June, 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shapinsay. 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 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 adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you find the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice 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

July

July here is cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shapinsay. 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 stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • 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

August

Traveling to Shapinsay in August, you will notice that it is cool 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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 Shapinsay. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

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

September

If you visit Shapinsay during September, you are likely to notice that it is crisp and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s 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 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 Shapinsay. 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 airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work 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

October

October in Shapinsay can be brisk and very rainy. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • 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 Shapinsay. 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 recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • 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 pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to pick the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

November

If you visit Shapinsay during November, you might notice that it is pretty cool 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 low 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 and snow occasionally. There is frost sometimes.

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 help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Shapinsay. 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to get the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply 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 countries.

  • 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

If you visit Shapinsay during December, you will probably 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 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 and snow a bit less than half of the time. There is frost about a third 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly 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 Shapinsay. 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Shapinsay, Scotland, United Kingdom

Shapinsay, a beautiful island located in Scotland, has several top tourist attractions that attract thousands of visitors every year. It is a paradise of stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and cozy villages, making it an ideal destination for both locals and tourists alike. Let's take a look at some of the top tourist attractions that you must visit when in Shapinsay.

Balfour Castle

The magnificent Balfour Castle is a must-see attraction in Shapinsay. It's an impressive 19th-century building that was built by David Balfour in 1848. The castle is located near the pier, making it easy to access for tourists. The castle has beautiful gardens surrounding it where visitors can take a stroll and soak up the natural beauty of the island.

Shapinsay Heritage Centre

Shapinsay Heritage Centre is another popular tourist attraction in the island that welcomes visitors from all over the world. The centre is located in a former school building in the village of Balfour. It offers a wealth of information about the island's history, including artifacts and photographs reflecting life on the island in the past. Visitors can take a tour of the museum and learn about the island's unique culture and heritage.

Shapinsay Lighthouse

Shapinsay Lighthouse, located on the north-eastern coast of the island, is a stunning example of Scottish maritime history. The lighthouse was first built in 1836 and has been guiding seafarers ever since. Visitors can take a trek up the hill to the lighthouse and witness this impressive historical building up close.

The Hope and Anchor Cafe

One of the top tourist attractions in Shapinsay is the Hope and Anchor Café. This charming little cafe is the perfect spot for visitors to relax and take in the island's laid-back atmosphere. The cafe is known for its homely environment provides some of the best food and drinks made from local produce.

Bowanhill Standing Stones

The Bowanhill Standing Stones, located south of Shapinsay, is a prehistoric archaeological site that attracts visitors interested in history and culture. These mythical stones, dating back to the Bronze Age, are a must-see for any visitor who wants to experience the sublime wonder of the island.

In conclusion, Shapinsay island is a perfect destination for anyone interested in exploring the natural beauty of Scotland. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes, it offers a variety of tourist attractions that can leave any visitor fascinated. The island is a hidden gem that should be on the list of any Scottish itinerary.

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.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Piatra Craiului National Park, Romania, Panama City Beach, Florida, United States of America, Blue Diamond, Nevada, United States of America, Olds and Didsbury, Alberta, Canada, Popoyo, Nicaragua, Crewe, England, United Kingdom, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, United States of America, Iraqi Kurdistan, Iraq, El Portal, California, United States of America, Central Yunnan, China, and Knoydart, Scotland, United Kingdom.