I’ve been to Scotland a few times and studied abroad in Edinburgh, so I know a few helpful tips to help plan an exciting trip around Scotland. Take pieces of this advice or all of it! These are things I had to consider and what I would have found helpful if I were going for the first time.
While I spent much of my time in Edinburgh, the advice below applies to Scotland as a whole and should be helpful whether you’re visiting the cities, the Highlands, or anywhere in between.
Packing
I lived in Scotland during the winter, and I’ve visited in the spring and, most recently, in the summer. The key thing to remember whenever you visit: do not forget an umbrella(though it may run away from you in the wind)! I’ve found that from January to June, rain is an inevitable part of your Scottish travels. In fact, the rain sometimes makes it even more magical because the country’s greenery is so full of life.
Specifics on Clothing
When it comes to clothes, much of my decision-making has always depended on my plans. I am a castle-and-café girl, so I tend to pack dresses and colorful cardigans to match the atmosphere. In the spring and summer, that is more than comfortable.
If you are traveling in the winter, be sure to bring gloves and a warm jacket for all the walking you will do. Even with good public transportation in the main cities, you’ll still spend quite a bit of time on foot.
I can’t give advice on fall weather—yet—but I imagine it’s when the summer warmth begins to fade and cardigans and jackets become more common among locals. Above all, remember that layers are key regardless of the season.
Language
If you’re traveling to Scotland, you should already be aware that they speak English, but in case you didn’t know, there’s always room to learn something new!
I often hear jokes that Scottish accents are so strong that it sounds like people are speaking a different language, which is honestly fair. However, in my opinion, everything is fairly straightforward, even with bathrooms being referred to as toilets or washrooms.
If you have a grasp of English, you’ll be fine. If not, Google Translate is also a great option.
Outlets
Scotland uses Type G outlets, so don’t forget to get an adapter if your home country uses a different outlet type. If you’re from the United States, be sure to purchase a Type G adapter before your trip.
Planning Excursions
I’ve been to over ten castles in Scotland and seen many more. I’ve found that the best way to plan excursions is to book ahead through Viator or directly with tour companies.
Two of the larger tour operators are Rabbie’s and Timberbush, and they offer a diverse range of options whether you’re looking to see the Highlands, visit Outlander filming locations, or explore small villages throughout the country.
I personally prefer Timberbush, but I have confidence that all of the major operators provide excellent tours. Ultimately, it comes down to your budget and what you’d like to see.
For a bit of context, popular tours tend to sell out quickly, so booking at least a week in advance can help reduce stress. Most tours typically range from $60–$120, with optional add-ons such as castle admissions, whisky tastings, or other activities.
One thing worth noting is that the most common complaint on guided tours is that the schedule can feel condensed. If you enjoy taking your time at each stop, you may occasionally feel rushed. However, every traveler is different.
Public Transportation
Public transportation is probably the trickiest part of traveling through Scotland because each region has a somewhat different system.
Depending on where you are, you can purchase day passes that make getting around very easy. The best option for you will depend on where you’re staying, what you plan to do, how much walking you’re comfortable with, and how much you’re willing to spend each day.
Most buses accept contactless payment, and many operators have apps where you can purchase passes and tickets in advance. On my most recent trip, I chose to pay for each bus ride individually because I was frequently switching between trains and buses and didn’t want to commit to a single transportation system.
That being said, I did purchase the Spirit of Scotland Pass for unlimited train travel throughout the country. If you truly plan on exploring Scotland, I would recommend it without hesitation. It makes travel significantly easier and is often cheaper in the long run.
Transportation requires some planning if you’re working within a tight budget, but otherwise, I recommend choosing whichever option is most convenient for you.
Exchanging Money
On every trip I’ve taken to Scotland, I’ve never needed to carry much cash. In fact, I often find carrying cash a bit stressful because using a card is easier and eliminates the hassle of exchanging leftover money before heading home.
I know some people feel more comfortable carrying cash when traveling abroad, and I agree that it’s wise to keep a small amount on hand for emergencies. It can be useful if you need a taxi, a quick meal, or transportation in a situation where card payments aren’t available.Exchanging money can be a helpful safeguard, but I’ve never found it to be particularly critical.
On the topic of payments, it’s worth noting that unlike in the United States, staff generally will not take your card away from the table to complete a transaction. Payment terminals are typically brought directly to you. If you encounter a situation where someone wants to take your card elsewhere, it’s reasonable to ask questions and be cautious.
A Few Extra Things to Know
- Scottish weather can change very quickly, sometimes several times in a single day, so always keep a layer and an umbrella handy. Even if the forecast looks perfect, you should still be prepared for surprises.
- If you’re visiting the Highlands during late spring or summer, be prepared for midges—small biting insects that can be a nuisance near water and wooded areas. Bug spray can make a big difference.
- Finally, tipping in Scotland is way less expected than in the United States. Many restaurants include a service charge, but also many don’t, leaving around 10–12.5% for very good service is solid.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Scotland is a very manageable country to navigate, especially for a first solo trip or even a first trip abroad. Planning is important, but a few mistakes and unexpected moments are often what make the journey memorable.
Hopefully, this advice is helpful and your trip to Scotland is everything you’re hoping for. Safe travels!
