Post-pandemic the way that we travel has changed significantly. Among a plethora of changing trends and patterns, is the amount of yearly visitors Britain’s most Northerly country, Scotland, receives from both those living in the UK and further afield. It is estimated that tourism in the country has risen by a huge 17.2%.

In recent years the beautiful landscapes, uninhabited islands, and intricately designed castles overlooking some of Scotland’s most impressive views have received significant media attention, combined with general lifestyle trends placing more emphasis on spending time in nature, keeping active, and staying away from the bustling, sometimes stressful nature of big cities.

Scotland is still viewed as an emerging holiday destination. Many of the sightseers who made up the 17.2% increase in Scottish tourism post-pandemic were first time visitors to the country and reported not knowing exactly what to expect from the country’s climate before jetting off.

So, if you’re visiting from elsewhere in Britain, the EU, or further afield what exactly do you need to keep in mind when packing for a trip to nature and wildlife filled Scotland? Our checklist will provide you with all the essential items you’ll need to take with you to Scotland to ensure you’re prepared for its unpredictable weather and unique landscape.

1. Travel Adapter

Unless you’re visiting from another country within the UK, you’ll need a travel adaptor when travelling to Scotland this summer. Scotland uses a type G socket, so be sure to bring an adapter that is compatible with this standard. If you travel regularly or are moving on to another country after your time in Scotland, consider a universal adapter with multiple plug configurations for accommodating various types of global plugs and sockets.

2. Insect Repellent

While Scotland’s impressive wildlife scene is undeniable, it can, on occasion, come as a nuisance. It may come as a surprise to those new to the country, but Scotland’s lush green landscape attracts a variety of pesky insects that are known to bite and cause infections. The country’s most infamous insect, midges, can be kept away by applying insect repellent. Before starting a hike across one of Scotland’s many areas of natural beauty, be sure to cover exposed parts of your body with insect repellent to ward off unwanted bites.

3. Sunscreen

While Scotland often gets mocked for its unfortunate weather conditions, this doesn’t mean the sun never shines there. Typically, tourists don’t visit Scotland in the Summer expecting 30 degree heat every single day, but the Scottish climate is still more than capable of heating up to the extent where your skin may be vulnerable to burning. The average temperature in the Summer months is approximately 17 degrees, but there’s always a few unexpected days a year where the temperature vastly exceeds this.

4. Raincoat

While Scotland’s climate can heat up on occasion, it can still pour down with torrential rain on the very same day. There is a famous saying in Scotland that the nation experiences “all four seasons in the same day”, so packing a raincoat as well as sunscreen is the perfect way to ensure that you’re prepared for Scotland’s often unpredictable weather conditions.

5. Sturdy Walking Shoes

Many of Scotland’s most worthwhile destinations require hiking along uneven ground to visit. Whether you’re seeing the sights in Edinburgh or a long walk observing the natural beauty of the highlands, you’ll need some sturdy walking shoes to provide your feet with the support they require during a period you’re likely to be walking more steps than you typically would.

6. Tablet or Laptop

While you’ll be eager to immerse yourself in all the outstanding landscapes and wildlife that Scotland has to offer, a tablet or laptop can be useful for keeping yourself entertained during downtime or to keep you informed when searching for the next tourist destination to visit.

Luxury motorhomes available to hire from Ariescape (ariescape.co.uk) provide unlimited 5G internet, so it’s worth bringing a technological device with you to ensure long road trips across Scotland’s vast landscapes run smoothly and without you getting lost or bored.

7. Reusable Water Bottle

If you’re hiking through remote parts of Scotland there will be occasions when you’re significant distances away from shops to buy water so that you can hydrate yourself. Arrive in Scotland prepared with a reusable water bottle so you’re able to help protect the planet and prevent moments of panic when you start to feel dehydrated miles away from the nearest shop.