Scottish Highlands and Edinburgh packing list for families
Scotland rewards families who dress for anything, because a sunny castle morning can turn into a windy, wet Highland afternoon. This list covers the layers, boots and small extras that keep everyone comfortable from the Royal Mile to the lochs.
Photo by Christian Lendl on Unsplash
Kristina's notes on Edinburgh & the Highlands
- Pack for four seasons in a day, even in July. A warm fleece and a proper hooded rain jacket matter more than anything else in the suitcase.
- Highland drives take longer than the map suggests on narrow, winding roads, so I plan no more than two or three hours in the car a day with kids.
- If you're visiting in August during the Fringe, book Edinburgh hotels very early. In Highland summers, midges are worst on still evenings near water, so bring repellent made for them.
Edinburgh & the Highlands
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Carry-on8
Clothing5
Shoes2
Beach & pool1
Adventure1
Little ones5
Health & toiletries4
Documents & tech5
Nordic layers
Charcoal, oatmeal, forest, rust
For the grown-ups
- A waterproof parka or shell
- Chunky knit sweater
- Waterproof boots with real grip
For the kids
- Snowsuit or waterproof pants
- Merino base layers
- Mittens on a clip so they don't get lost
For photos
- Rust or red pops against snow and black sand
- Matching knit hats for the whole crew
Edinburgh & the Highlands weather and what's happening
Typical daytime highs and what each month feels like with kids.
| Month | Typical high | What it's like | Don't miss |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 44°F 7°C | Cold, windy and wet, dark by mid-afternoon, snow in the Highlands | |
| February | 45°F 7°C | Cold, windy and wet, dark by mid-afternoon, snow in the Highlands | |
| March | 48°F 9°C | Cool and bright between showers, days lengthening fast | |
| April | 52°F 11°C | Cool and bright between showers, days lengthening fast | The Jacobite steam train runs from Fort William |
| May | 57°F 14°C | Cool and bright between showers, days lengthening fast | Highland Games in towns across Scotland The Jacobite steam train runs from Fort William |
| June | 62°F 17°C | Mild and often cloudy, very long daylight, midges in the Highlands | Highland Games in towns across Scotland The Jacobite steam train runs from Fort William |
| July | 66°F 19°C | Mild and often cloudy, very long daylight, midges in the Highlands | Highland Games in towns across Scotland The Jacobite steam train runs from Fort William |
| August | 65°F 18°C | Mild and often cloudy, very long daylight, midges in the Highlands | Edinburgh Festival Fringe takes over the city Highland Games in towns across Scotland The Jacobite steam train runs from Fort William |
| September | 61°F 16°C | Cool and breezy with autumn color, rain picks up | Highland Games in towns across Scotland The Jacobite steam train runs from Fort William Red deer rut and golden autumn color in the glens |
| October | 55°F 13°C | Cool and breezy with autumn color, rain picks up | The Jacobite steam train runs from Fort William Red deer rut and golden autumn color in the glens |
| November | 48°F 9°C | Cool and breezy with autumn color, rain picks up | |
| December | 45°F 7°C | Cold, windy and wet, dark by mid-afternoon, snow in the Highlands | Hogmanay street party and fireworks for New Year |
Edinburgh & the Highlands with kids, answered
When is the best time to visit Edinburgh & the Highlands with kids?
The best time is May–Sep. Mild and often cloudy, very long daylight, midges in the Highlands
What's the weather like in Edinburgh & the Highlands?
Typical daytime highs range from about 44°F (7°C) in January to about 66°F (19°C) in July. See the month-by-month table on this page.
Do I need a passport for Edinburgh & the Highlands?
Yes. Bring a passport for everyone, including babies, and make sure each one is valid for at least six months past your trip. Check visa and entry rules before you go.
What kind of plug adapter do I need for Edinburgh & the Highlands?
Type G, bring an adapter.
What's your top tip for Edinburgh & the Highlands with kids?
Pack for four seasons in a day, even in July. A warm fleece and a proper hooded rain jacket matter more than anything else in the suitcase.
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I'm Kristina, and planning family trips is what I do.
As a luxury travel advisor with KM Luxe Travel, I plan the hotels, the flow of the days, and the little details, often with perks like breakfast and upgrades when available.