What to Pack for a Scotland Tour

What to pack for a Scotland tour can be a challenge, especially when you’re limited to 15kg of luggage. Whether you’re joining a small-group Highlands tour, hopping on domestic flights, or simply trying to travel light, careful planning is essential. Scotland’s beauty is unmatched, but so is its famously unpredictable weather. That means your suitcase needs to be ready for sunshine, showers, wind, and perhaps even snow - all four seasons in one day.

This guide will help you pack smartly, comfortably, and stylishly while staying within your 15kg luggage allowance.

Why the 15kg Limit?

Many small-group tours in Scotland, particularly those using minibuses, have a 15kg (33lbs) luggage limit per person due to space constraints and safety reasons.

Having a baggage limit means that the coach will not be overweight which could have severe safety implications. 

The allowance is similar to what most budget airlines allow for checked baggage. While that might sound restrictive, with the right packing strategy, it’s more than enough for a one- or two-week trip.

While there is a 15kg limit, it’s possible for two or more people to share a larger bag, if that is more convenient.

What’s the weather like in Scotland

Scotland’s weather is famously unpredictable, with conditions often changing several times in a single day. The climate is generally temperate, with mild summers and cool, wet winters.

Average summer temperatures range from 15–20°C (59–68°F), though the Highlands and islands can feel cooler, especially with wind chill. Spring and autumn are often fresh and breezy, with April and May typically being the driest and sunniest months.

Rain is a year-round companion, especially in the west, so waterproof clothing is essential. Winters are cold and damp, with snowfall likely in the Highlands but rare in lowland cities.

Despite the variability, the shifting skies and dramatic light are part of what makes Scotland’s landscapes so atmospheric and beautiful year-round.

Here is a table showing the average highest and lowest temperatures, as well as the average monthly rainfall, in Scotland by month. These figures are based on long-term climate data from central and western Scotland and are intended as general averages.

Notes:

• July is typically the warmest month, but not necessarily the driest.
• April and May are often the driest, with longer daylight hours and fewer midges—ideal for touring.
• Autumn and winter (Oct–Jan) tend to bring the most rain and wind, especially in the west.
• The Highlands and islands often receive more rainfall and colder temperatures than central areas like Edinburgh or Glasgow.

Clothing: Build a Layered Capsule Wardrobe for your tour

So how do you pack for sunshine, rain, and wind? The answer: layers, layers, layers.

Start with a capsule wardrobe built around versatile, neutral pieces that can be mixed and matched. Stick to moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and lightweight fabrics.

Items you should consider for your travel wardrobe:

T-shirts: Great as a base layer - opt for breathable cotton or synthetic quick-dry materials.

Long-sleeved tops: Good for layering and chilly evenings.

Jumpers or fleeces: A fleece is essential for warmth without weight.

Button-down shirt/blouse: A versatile option that can be dressed up or layered.

Jeans or casual trousers: Comfortable for cities or evenings.

Waterproof jacket with hood: Arguably your most important item. Choose something lightweight, breathable, and fully waterproof—not just “shower resistant.”

Packable insulated jacket: Useful from spring through autumn, especially in the Highlands or on island trips.

Waterproof walking shoes or hiking boots: Sturdy, comfortable, and broken-in.

Remember, your guest house will provide towels and basic toiletries such as soap and shampoo.

Daypack Must-Haves

In addition to a case, you can also bring a small, lightweight day pack (15-20L is ideal) for your essential items, such as snacks, a camera, and a reusable water bottle. Tap water in Scotland is of a very high standard, so you can top up at your accommodation each day before heading out on tour.

You may also want to consider packing some midge repellent as well. These tiny winged pests thrive in warm, damp and windless conditions. They travel in swarms and have a taste for human blood!

Your best defence is an industrial-strength repellent (Smidge, anyone?), and a strong sense of humour. Just think of them as part of the authentic Scottish experience!

Laundry Strategy

If your tour lasts more than a week, plan to do laundry once rather than pack 14 days’ worth of clothes. Guest houses generally don’t offer a laundry service, but by planning ahead, you should be able to find a local laundry during a two-night stay.

If you want to do your own thing, here are some top tips:

• Bring a small pack of travel laundry detergent or laundry sheets.
• Choose quick-drying clothes.
• Consider accommodations with laundry facilities, or wash items by hand in your room.
• A universal sink plug and travel washing line can be handy.

Scotland Packing List (Fits in 15kg)

Tips to Stay Under 15kg

• Use a luggage scale at home before travelling.
• Wear your heaviest items on travel days: boots, jacket, and jumper.
• Pack multi-use items: A scarf can be a pillow, blanket, or outfit accessory.
• Roll, don’t fold clothes for better compression.
• Use packing cubes to stay organised and reduce bulk.
• Keep toiletries to a minimum and refill along the way. 

How to store Left Luggage?

If you have excess bags on your trip to Scotland there are left luggage facilities available in all three of Scotland’s major cities, offering convenient storage for travellers.

In Edinburgh, secure left luggage services can be found at Waverley Station, managed by Excess Baggage Company, and at several locations across the city, including the Royal Mile and Haymarket, through services like LuggageHero and Stasher.

Glasgow, Queen Street and Central Station both offer staffed luggage storage, with additional options near Buchanan Bus Station and in the city centre. 

Inverness provides left luggage facilities at the bus station, with independent providers near the train station and in the Old Town, ideal for day trippers and those joining Highland tours.

All facilities typically charge by the hour or day, and many offer advance booking online for added convenience. For more information, check out our informative blog here.

Explore Scotland with Scottish Tours

We make it easy to discover the best of Scotland with our popular tours departing from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and London. Whether you’re hunting monsters in Loch Ness, taking a trip on the Hogwarts Express or exploring the Highlands and Islands, our tours will help you explore even the wildest corners of our stunning country.

Browse available tours and book online today.

Photo credits: VisitBritain and Shutterstock