Here are my tips on what to pack for your Highland based on my experience of living and taking tours here over the last 20 years.
This information is based on taking a regular holiday, if you are coming to the Highlands for hill walking, climbing, mountain sports then you will obviously need specialised gear.
Weather on a Scottish Highlands Holiday
We definitely get weather here in the Scottish Highlands.
Getting the right clothing for the weather can be tricky given how quickly it changes. That’s why layers are always a good option!
Of course, what you need depends on the weather so here are a few things to know about our weather.
It can snow anytime through to May, although generally it’s gone around March or April.
The night times can be colder than you are used to.
Heating in holiday accommodation may be different from what you are used to – most of the Highlands outside of Inverness isn’t on mains gas, so expect oil heating, wood burners, and open fires, along with night storage heating.
The temperatures here, while warm to us, may feel cooler to you. We think 20 degrees Celsius is getting pretty tropical. If that’s not that hot for you then some extra layers might be handy.
The West Coast of the Highlands is generally windier and wetter.
Fort William is one of the wettest areas of the Highlands.
Clothing for a Scottish Highlands Holiday
Layers
Layers are always good, including good base layers. If you are going to be out for the day with your car then take some extra layers with you and have them in the car in case you need them.
Coat
A really good waterproof and windproof coat is good if you are coming outside of summer, during summer a lighter coat should be OK, with some layers if needed.
Hat
Hats are essential outside of summer, and during summer if you are planning on being on the beaches or outside a great deal in the sun. I like Heat Holder hats as they really keep the wind out, ideal if you suffer from neuralgia.
Gloves
Gloves are a good idea, defrosting and scraping ice off your car without them isn’t much fun.
Footwear
Good walking shoes are always great – waterproof ones ideally. You need something sturdy and supportive with a good grip.
Other Items to Pack for Your Highlands Holiday
Torch
A torch is always good as street lighting can be sparse in remoter areas of the Highlands. Ideally a rechargeable one.
You may want to consider a midge net if you are planning on visiting the West Coast during midgie season, or if you are planning to do lots of walking in areas that could be affected. These little biting insects can be quite vicious and they are relentless!
These little insects can have a big impact on your Highlands holiday if you are not prepared!
Map
The phone signal in the Highlands can be patchy in some places. Having a good map with you will ensure you can find your way when your phone can’t help you.
If you are planning to do lots of walking and also if you have dogs then a tick remover might be handy. Ticks can be common in the Highlands and can cause long-term problems to humans and pets. A proper tick remover will ensure you remove them safely.
As for everything else, you will need what you normally take on holiday. These are just a few specific things for when you visit the Highlands.
Scottish Highlands Holiday – Conclusion
A bit of planning will ensure you can get the most out of your Highlands holiday.
Check if there are midges where you are travelling to.
Don’t forget to bring a map – in some parts of the Highlands, there isn’t a great mobile signal.
Other Articles
If you have found this ‘what to pack for a Scottish Highlands holiday’ article useful you might also like;
Wondering About A Scottish Breakfast? This article was inspired after hearing a fellow guest ask the hotel staff for a full English breakfast. The only problem with that was we were in a hotel in Scotland! My nephew and I paused, waiting for the hotel staff to correct the guests, but they simply took their … Read more
See the Scottish Highlands by Train We are lucky to have several beautiful train routes in the Highlands. The first is probably the most famous, the West Highland Line. This runs from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh which overlooks the Isle of Skye. This railway was made more famous by Michael Palin who declared the … Read more
If you are coming to the Scottish Highlands and planning on driving here are some things you need to know. The Scottish Highlands are a fantastic place to drive but it’s quite different from other parts of Scotland the UK. What It’s Like Drive in the Scottish Highlands? There aren’t any motorways in the Scottish … Read more
As someone who has lived in the Highlands for over 20 years any time of year is a great time to visit the Scottish Highlands as there is always something wonderful to see. Here are some things to help you decide when it’s the best time for you to visit. Here is what the weather … Read more
Looking to stay at the Foyers House Hotel? Here is my review, including a video room tour, of a one night stay in November 2022. I was staying in Foyers because I was attending a photography course. My Overall Rating for the Foyers House Hotel – 😐 Price for Stay – 1 Night in November … Read more
Looking to stay in Strathpeffer? Check out this review of the Highland Hotel Strathpeffer, which includes a video tour of the room. What is the Highland Hotel Strathpeffer Like? The Highland Hotel is a large hotel in a historic building. The hotel has a wood-panelled lounge and dining area and some stained glass windows. The … Read more
Thinking of visiting Brodie Castle? With lovely grounds to walk in, a quirky castle, cute cafe and a fabulous play area what’s not to like? Check out this guide for all you need to know Brodie Castle – Everything You Need to Know 1. Brodie Castle Address and Telephone Number Brodie Castle address is; Brodie, … Read more
Are you looking to visit the Highlands of Scotland? Looking for Highland cottages with hot tubs so you can enjoy some bubbly holiday bliss? Great – well here is a selection picked just for you with some notes from me to help you find you perfect stay! I’ve organised this list in ascending price order. … Read more
