Skye, Scotland, United Kingdom: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

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

Contents

When to go to Skye, Scotland, United Kingdom

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

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

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in Skye is brisk and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain most days. There is frost a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    United Kingdom has some specific safety 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 Skye. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you pick the necessary type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you want to visit Kilt Rock and Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

February

Traveling to Skye in February, 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 40s F (single digits C). There is frost regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    United Kingdom has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Skye. 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 repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • 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 find the necessary kind. Many adapters currently available 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 sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you want to visit Kilt Rock and Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

March

March in Skye is pretty cool and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain most days. There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    United Kingdom has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Skye. 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 airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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. It's important that you pick the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you go to Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you want to visit Kilt Rock and Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

April

April is brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. There is frost occasionally. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    United Kingdom has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Skye. 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 excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you want to visit Kilt Rock and Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

May

If you go to Skye in May, you will notice that it is crisp 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

    United Kingdom has some specific safety 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 Skye. 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 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 voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you want to visit Kilt Rock and Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

June

June here is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    United Kingdom has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Skye. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to find the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you want to visit Kilt Rock and Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

July

If you vacation in Skye during July, you might find that it can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s 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

    United Kingdom has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Skye. 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 huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

If you go to Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you want to visit Kilt Rock and Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

August

If you vacation in Skye during August, you might see that it is crisp and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s 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

    United Kingdom has some specific safety 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 airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you want to visit Kilt Rock and Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

September

September in Skye is chilly and very rainy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    United Kingdom has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your 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 Skye. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support 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 excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you find the correct type. Many adapters available online are just 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.

If you go to Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you want to visit Kilt Rock and Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

October

October in Skye can be brisk and extremely rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    United Kingdom has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always 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 Skye. 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 peace of mind, 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 huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you pick the right type. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

If you go to Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you want to visit Kilt Rock and Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

November

November is brisk and very rainy. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost occasionally. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    United Kingdom has some specific safety 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 Skye. 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 things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you get the necessary type. Many adapters available online are just 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 countries.

If you go to Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you want to visit Kilt Rock and Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

December

If you visit Skye during December, you will probably find that it is cold 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). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. There is frost a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    United Kingdom has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Skye. 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 luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to choose the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

If you go to Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you want to visit Kilt Rock and Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

What to do in Skye, Scotland, United Kingdom

Skye, an island in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland, is a popular tourist destination that is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. It has a wide variety of tourist attractions that cater to different interests, including natural wonders, historic sites, and cultural experiences. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Skye that you should definitely visit when you are in the area:

The Old Man of Storr

This iconic landmark is a large rock formation that stands tall in the Trotternish ridge on the east coast of Skye. It is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts who come to admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including the sea and the Isle of Raasay. The Old Man of Storr is a prime example of Skye's striking natural beauty, and it is a must-see for anyone who visits the island.

Dunvegan Castle

Dunvegan Castle is a historic castle that has been the seat of the chiefs of the Clan MacLeod for over 800 years. It is located on the shores of Loch Dunvegan and offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history of the island. The castle is home to an impressive collection of artifacts, including the famous Fairy Flag, as well as beautiful gardens that are a delight to explore.

The Fairy Pools

The Fairy Pools are a series of pools and waterfalls located at the foot of the Black Cuillin Mountains in Glen Brittle. The crystal-clear waters of the pools range in color from turquoise to deep blue, providing stunning photo opportunities. The pools are surrounded by lush greenery, creating a beautiful natural oasis that is perfect for hiking or swimming.

Talisker Distillery

For those who appreciate fine whiskey, the Talisker Distillery is a must-visit destination. This historic distillery is the oldest working distillery on the island, and it produces some of the finest single malt whiskey in Scotland. Visitors can take a tour of the distillery, learn about the whiskey-making process, and sample some of the delicious whiskey.

Dinosaur Footprints

Skye is home to some of the oldest rock formations in the world, which have preserved a wealth of fossils, including dinosaur footprints. The footprints were left by dinosaurs over 170 million years ago, and they can be found at a number of locations on the island, including Staffin Bay and the foot of the Quiraing.

Conclusion

Skye is a magical destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or a whiskey enthusiast, you will find plenty of things to see and do on the island. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Skye is truly a paradise on earth.

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: Hay River, Northwest Territories, Canada, Longreach, Queensland, Australia, Yarkand, China, Warsaw, Missouri, United States of America, Abhaneri, India, Palm Beach County, Florida, United States of America, Uranus, Missouri, United States of America, Bosra, Syria, Mudumalai National Park, India, Kerala Backwaters, India, and Upper Lusatia, Germany.