Wondering what to pack for our trip to Scotland in the summer?
In this article you’ll find an intro to summer weather in Scotland and a handy list of suggestions for things to bring.
The important underlying idea to keep in mind when packing for Scotland is that the weather is unpredictable, with drastic changes throughout the day, and it can be quite wet, windy and cold, even in the summer, so it’s wise to pack layers.
Looking for Scotland travel tips? You can find everything you need to know in this article here.
What to expect in the summer in Scotland
The weather provides plenty to talk about in Scotland and locals are used to adapting to whatever nature may bring and appreciating the rain. As they like to say, “today’s rain is tomorrow’s whisky.”
Though summer in Scotland is the driest time of the year, with only between 50-100 mm of rain per month versus 100-250 mm in January, you should expect to get your fair share of the gloomy Scottish skies and rainfall that makes this region so lush and green.
But for the most part, Scotland’s warmer summer months make for great opportunities to get outside, get creative and enjoy some of the fantastically unique events that happen every summer.
The weather in Scotland in the summer
Summertime in Scotland is beautiful – the fields are green, the flowers are in bloom and happiness is in the air.
But not every summer month and sub-region is made equal and there are variations from north to south.
Pro tip: Always check the weather forecast for the next day, especially during the summer, when the weather can range from magical to nightmarish all of it in a day’s worth of sightseeing.
The weather can vary quite a bit from the South and East part of the country, which is known as the Lowlands and includes all the main cities, and the north and Western parts of the country which are referred to as the Highlands and includes most of the islands including Skye. We will take a look at summer weather patterns in both separately.
The Lowlands
Scotland’s Lowlands are the southern flatter part of the country and include the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow. Here, summer temperatures range from a cool 11°C to a balmy 19°C, with a mix of weather patterns.
In Edinburgh and the eastern Lowlands, where rainfall is lighter, you can expect milder conditions compared to Glasgow and the west, where rain is more frequent.
On average, Edinburgh receives around 2 to 3 mm of rainfall per day during these months, while Glasgow sees approximately 3 to 4 mm. With daylight hours stretching over 17 and a half hours in mid-summer, there’s tons of time to explore these historic cities and their surrounding landscapes, Wind speeds typically hover around 10 to 15 km/h, adding a refreshing breeze to your city escapades.
The Highlands and islands
Heading into the Western Highlands, Isle of Skye, and Hebrides, you’ll find yourself immersed in breathtaking scenery and a refreshing sea breeze.
With temperatures typically around a comfortable 18°C in Portree on the Isle of Skye, it’s the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities like lochside hikes and island explorations.
Rainfall is more common in the west, with approximately 3 to 4 mm per day, while the islands benefit from milder conditions thanks to the Gulf Stream (a warm ocean current coming from the Gulf of Mexico).
Expect nearly 4 to 5 mm of rainfall per day from June to August. With daylight hours stretching over 17 hours, you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the stunning vistas. Wind speeds range from 15 to 20 km/h, adding to the dramatic atmosphere of the landscape.
The weather in Scotland in June
In June, Scotland experiences 10 to 20 days of rain, temperatures between 8C (61F) and 16C (46F) and around 17 hours of glorious daylight. Here is the breakdown by region:
- Lowlands: Average temperature around 18°C, 66 mm of rainfall throughout the month, and around 18 hours of daylight with the sunrise around 4:30 AM, and sunset around 10:00 PM.
- Highlands and islands: Average temperature around 16°C, with around 88 mm of rainfall throughout the month, and around 18 hours of daylight. The sun rises around 4:15 AM, sunset around 10:15 PM.
Pro tip: June is when Midges begin to lay their eggs and these pesky little bugs start to take over in areas with standing water such as marshes, bogs, and near rivers or lakes. While they are more common in the Lowlands, Highlands and islands, they can still be found in damp and sheltered areas of the mountainous Cairngorms. Be prepared with insect repellent and protective clothing. You can check the midges forecast here before you go.
The weather in Scotland in July
In July, Scotland experiences 10 to 19 days of rain, temperatures between 10C (50F) and 18C (64F) and 17 hours of glorious daylight. Here is the breakdown by region:
- Lowlands: Temperatures rise slightly to an average of around 21°C, with around 74 mm of rainfall throughout the month. Daylight hours remain plentiful, with sunrise around 4:15 AM and sunset around 10:15 PM.
- Highlands and islands: Temperatures remain similar to June, averaging around 18°C. Rainfall levels increase slightly to approximately 98 mm throughout July. Daylight hours are also similar to the Lowlands, with sunrise around 4:00 AM and sunset around 10:30 PM.
The weather in Scotland in August
In August, Scotland’s weather can shift slightly as the days become shorter and rainfall picks up. You can expect 12 to 20 days of rain, temperatures between 9C (48F) and 18C (64F), and shorter daylight hours at 15.
- Lowlands: Temperatures remain warm, averaging around 20°C. Rainfall increases slightly to approximately 91 mm throughout the month. Daylight hours begin to decrease slightly, with sunrise around 4:45 AM and sunset around 9:45 PM.
- Highlands and islands: August sees temperatures remaining around 17°C, with rainfall levels similar to July at approximately 98 mm. Daylight hours decrease slightly, with sunrise around 4:30 AM and sunset around 10:00 PM.
Pro tip: Midges typically lay a second batch of eggs during late July or early August (unfortunately). Be prepared to cover up and spray away with that insect repellent.
How to dress in Scotland in the summer
Do as locals do and take a leaf from Scottish women on the best way to dress for the summer. Here it’s not about spaghetti straps and short dresses like in Barcelona, Florence or the Greek islands, but rather about being smart, staying warm and being ready for whatever the unpredictable Scottish weather may bring.
The Scots like to say, “if you don’t like the weather, wait 5 minutes,” so you should expect that every summer day could bring wind, rain, some sunshine and definitely a little bit of cold. With that in mind, tackle every outfit with versatility and practicality in mind.
Add a splash of Scottish heritage
Incorporate elements of traditional attire, such as tartan or plaid, to your wardrobe, even in the summer!
- Kilt: Obviously the most well-known of all Scottish garments, the kilt is a knee-length skirt-like item made of tartan fabric. It is typically worn by men for formal occasions such as weddings, Highland games, and other cultural events. However, there are also kilted skirts designed for women!
- Tartan: Tartan fabric, with its distinctive criss-crossed horizontal and vertical bands in multiple colors, is closely associated with Scotland. With over 1,000 different unique tartan patterns, it is used not only for kilts but also for other clothing items such as scarves, shawls, and ties.
- Trews: Trews are traditional Scottish trousers, usually made of tartan fabric, and worn by both men and women. They are fitted closely to the leg and can be worn as part of formal or casual attire.
Layer up
Don’t be fooled by a sunny morning, the weather can change in a moment and sunshine may give way to clouds, downpours, wind and cold. Always bring a waterproof shell and layers with you wherever you go.
Casual comfort
Comfortable and practical clothing is favored for everyday wear. Most people aren’t dressed like they are on a catwalk but rather visiting friends. The weather has a lot to do with this since wearing the wrong clothing is not only uncomfortable but can also be dangerous (slippery streets, muddy grounds, freezing temperatures, etc.).
You are more likely to see locals wearing jeans, leggings, T-shirts, and casual tops, suitable for outdoor activities or urban environments than ultra-trendy outfits.
The right shoes
Practical shoes are a necessity as walking around the cobblestoned streets in heels is difficult and you will likely spend a lot of time outdoors, unless you are planning to stick to the cities only.
Scottish people are outdoorsy and hiking boots or sneakers are commonly worn even in the cities. A pair of cute ankle high boots will keep you warm, dry and stylish.
To dress up your overall outfits, consider adding accessories like a nice scarf, a pair of large earrings, a colorful necklace and even a hat.
Outerwear
Given Scotland’s often damp and chilly weather, outerwear is essential. Women may wear waterproof jackets, coats, or parkas, particularly in the Highlands.
A day pack
Especially if you plan to hike or spend time outdoors, it pays to have a daypack to bring all you’ll need, from your water bottle to snacks, your raincoat and / or umbrella, a warm layer, sunglasses, etc.
Make sure it is either waterproof, or at least water resistant, or that it has a water cover you can pull over or you may be dry but your things may end up quite wet.
Pro tip: If you plan to bring a poncho, they can be worn over your day pack!
Bags and anti theft purses
Always keep your valuables safe and your bag in the front and zipped. Slash and theft proof cross-body bags like the ones we listed on this article are a great idea, and in crowded areas, keep your arm on your bag’s zipper for extra protection.
If something is to happen to you, you will most likely not even notice, but look out for situations in which anyone is trying to distract you by trying to sell you something, talking to you or drawing your attention to anything while someone else steals your wallet or phone. Read our full article on safety tips here.
Want to know how to stay safe and prevent a negative experience or encounter on your travels? Check out EMPOWERFUL, a series of 35+ sessions, 40+ experts and over 50+ hours of learning via masterclasses, panel discussions, and inspiring interviews to empower YOU to travel solo!
Go long, leave shorts at home
As you can see from the average temperatures in the summer months, it is rarely hot enough to wear miniskirts or shorts, unless you pair them with leggings or stockings or you are used to living in very cold or similar weather.
What you need to pack for Scotland in the summer is very different from what you would need in Southern Europe in the summer. If you are familiar with Autumn weather in Southern Spain, you should assume this is the kind of weather and clothing you’ll need for the Scottish summer.
Replace bare legs with longer skirts, leggings or stockings with skirts and play up with fabrics and textures to bring some flair into your outfits while staying warm.
Darker colors
Since rain is almost guaranteed during your trip, you should favor outfits in darker colors than brighter, especially for bottoms, so your baby blue or white skirt do not end up looking grey from the rain, mud and wind. Add color through your tops, your jackets, your bags and accessories, etc.
Go local
Why not add a tinge of Scottish flare with a piece from one of the local designers? Below are some of our favorite ones:
- Totty Rocks: Founded by Lynsey Blackburn and Holly Mitchell, Totty Rocks offers contemporary womenswear with a vintage twist, blending traditional Scottish textiles with modern design.
- Hilary Grant: Founded by textile designer Hilary Grant, this company specializes in high-quality knitwear, including scarves, hats, and accessories, all made in Scotland.
- Birdsong: Birdsong is a sustainable fashion brand across the UK that collaborates with local female makers and artisans to create ethical and inclusive clothing. Founded by Sophie Slater and Sarah Beckett, they prioritize fair wages and environmental sustainability in their production process.
- Lady Jojo’s Boutique: Lady Jojo’s Boutique on Grassmarket street in Edinburgh offers a curated selection of vintage-inspired clothing, accessories, and homeware, with a focus on unique and quirky designs created by Jojo Saunders herself.
- Isolated Heroes: Isolated Heroes is Samantha McEwen’s colorful and avant-garde fashion label offering modern statement pieces and unique designs, all handmade in their Glasgow studio.
What to pack for Scotland in the summer
I said it before and I will repeat it again. The key to packing for Scotland any time of the year, even in the summer, is bringing layers so you can add on or remove as the day progresses and the weather changes as it will most likely do.
You may be lucky and enjoy glorious summer days, but you could also encounter winter-like weather even in July or August, so it pays to be prepared for anything.
Start with a t-shirt, and you’ll be able to add a shirt or a sweater. Put on a colorful dress and a pair of leggings or thick stockings and you can add or take off a cardigan or zip up jacket. If it rains, add a raincoat. If it’s colder, put on a vest and a fleece. Scarves and hats can come on and off as and when required, especially if there is wind. The possibilities are endless!
Tops
Pack a variety of tops suitable for layering, including t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, blouses and cardigans.
Opting for more breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking materials like merino wool will help you stay comfortable throughout the day no matter the weather. I have a few merino wool tshirts, long and short, like this one from Icebreaker.
You can check out all the merino wool layers from Icebreaker here.
Sweaters or jackets
Bring a couple of sweaters, cardigans, pullovers or fleece jackets that you can layer on or off depending on the weather. As most of the rest of your outfit is probably going to be quite casual, a cute top is what you can wear to bring a bit of jazz and style to your attire.
I like to have a warm and fluffy zip up jacket always handy when I travel anywhere. This one from Columbia is worn by many of our guests and is an Amazon best seller.
An oversized cardigan can easily layer over a long-sleeved dress or a lighter sweater. This one will pair with everything.
Long trousers
Long trousers are the way to go even in the summer. These can be yoga pants, jeans or hiking pants like these best selling ones if you plan to head to the Highlands for outdoorsy activities. Bear in mind that jeans will take long time to dry so they may not be suitable for rainy days.
On our tour to Scotland, we will spend a couple of days in Skye hiking the Old Man of Storr and the Fairy Pools which require spending a significant amount of time outdoors. The weather in this part of Scotland, like in other parts of the Highlands, is wet and often windy so umbrellas are not very useful.
It may be wise to bring a pair of waterproof pants like these for rainy days when you may be hiking or outdoors all day, or at least bring quick dry items so you don’t carry around wet clothes.
Long skirts and dresses
If you are more of a skirt type of person, this is the time to bring your longer ones which you can complement with a pair of tights if the weather is colder than expected.
If the weather gets chilly, you can layer a long-sleeve, long dress with tights, a sweater and boots.
Pro tip: Even if it’s not cold, you may want to bring a pair of biking shorts to wear under your dress because it will be windy and you don’t want to flash others.
Waterproof jacket or raincoat
A waterproof jacket or raincoat is crucial for staying dry during Scotland’s frequent rain showers. Look for windbreaker, breathable and packable options like this cute one with a hoodie that you can easily carry with you. These will come in handy on windy days too.
Everyone has their favorite jackets, but the proper adventure and outdoor brands, specifically those like Gore-Tex, do this best because they are conceived with the unpredictable weather of Scotland in mind.
We recommend for the jacket to be rather long, ideally reaching just above your knees like popular and best selling one, so that your legs don’t get wet, and for it to have a hood so your head stays warm and dry.
You can also simply purchase a lightweight and packable poncho that can provide extra protection during those unexpected Scottish downpours.
Vests
I love packing a warm puffy vest like this one when the weather is unpredictable because I have handy pockets, a warm layer around my body but flexibility around the arms to move.
When the weather gets cooler, a vest can also keep you warmer and make you look stylish. I wear my vest over a long sleeve merino wool tshirt or a lighter sweater.
Comfortable walking shoes
Scotland’s terrain can be rugged and the cobblestone streets in the cities can be hazardous, so pack sturdy and comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, especially if you plan to explore the countryside or go hiking.
Look for waterproof or water-resistant options to keep your feet dry on damp trails or in rainy conditions. Break in your shoes before your trip to avoid blisters and discomfort during long walks or hikes.
We like these Columbia’s cute waterproof sneakers from Columbia and these highly rated hiking boots (that also come in wide sizes) to get you through the Highlands.
If you are looking for something a bit trendier, Sorel makes fun and stylish sneakers like this pair especially designed for exploring wet cities. They may have thought of Scotland when coming up with these ones!
Scarf and Gloves
While summer tends to be relatively mild in Scotland, temperatures can still be cool, particularly in the evenings or at higher elevations and you won’t look like a fool if you suddenly feel the need to warm up with a wooly hat.
Pack a lightweight scarf that you can use to shield your neck from chilly winds or to add a stylish accent to your outfit. You could try with a tartan one to blend in with the local style.
I travel with an infinity scarf from Lina & Lily in pink and silver that is very light and soft and packs down to nothing.
Lightweight gloves or mittens are also handy for keeping your hands warm when temperatures drop if you are prone to getting cold. A hat is a great fashion item and a practical one too.
Other items you should pack for Scotland
 | Insect repellent: Midges can be an issue in Scotland in the summer especially around stagnant water and when there is no wind. You can check the midges forecast here. You can buy midges repellent in a supermarket in the northern parts of Scotland or buy a repellent with picaridin like this one which keeps them at bay. |
 | Umbrella: An umbrella is a must, especially in the cities where there is less wind and they can still be useful. In the Highlands, or when the weather is windy as it often is in Scotland, an umbrella will be useless and you’ll have to resort to a raincoat or poncho. This one is great. |
 | Universal plug adaptor: Plugs in the UK are three-pronged and flat. The best way to ensure you will be able to use any plug is by packing a universal adaptor. I like the ones which come with USB ports so that I can charge phones, cameras and everything else with just one adaptor. I love this one because it has USB ports for all the electronics I now carry. |
 | Power bank: A portable charger can be an essential on long travel days through the Highlands and even on the ferry to the numerous islands. The INIU Portable Charger has a 20000mAh capacity, and fast-charging USB-C ports, you can power up your devices in a flash, while the LED display keeps you in the know about your battery level. It’s the perfect companion for road trips, travel adventures, or just surviving a long day out and about. |
 | Sunglasses: In July, Scotland experiences longer daylight hours and potentially sunny weather, making sunglasses essential for protecting the eyes from harmful UV rays and glare. Try these ones out to protect your eyes in style. |
 | Waterproof mobile phone case: If your phone is water resistant as many are these days, a few drops of rain won’t cause any damage. If your phone isn’t water resistant, a waterproof case like this one, commonly purchased by our guests, could be handy. |
 | Water bottle: Single use plastic bottles are terrible for the environment so I recommend you bring your own reusable bottle as part of our efforts towards zero-waste and responsible travel. Tap water in Scotland is totally safe to drink. |
 | Sunscreen: Sunscreen is important because even though the weather can be unpredictable, the sun’s UV rays can still cause skin damage, especially during Scotland’s extended daylight hours during the summer. Applying sunscreen helps protect the skin from sunburn, premature aging, and reduces the risk of skin cancer, ensuring safe enjoyment of outdoor activities. I like and use Japanese Biore SPF 50++++ because you can wear it under makeup and it is non-sticky and silky smooth. |
 | Moisturizer: Like with your body, your face will need to stay hydrated in the unpredictable weather. Changes in temperatures – the wind, sun, cold and rain can make your skin really sensitive and in need of proper moisturizing. This CereVe moisturizer bundle protects your skin during the day with SPF 30 and heals your skin’s protective barrier at night – bonus, they are both under 100 ml which makes them perfect for carry-on travel! |
 | Body lotion: The hotels you will stay at might provide their own but it might be best to bring your favorite brand. My sister gifted me a Body Shop Christmas Advent calendar that came with many of their products to try and this 96h hydration body butter is amazing. It comes in a flat recycled plastic tub with an aluminum lid that’s super easy for travel and anti-spill (I can testify to that since I’ve traveled a few countries with it). |
 | Biodegradable tissue and wet wipes: It’s a good idea to have a small packet of biodegradable wet towels handy for any hikes or adventures through Scotland’s rugged terrain. These ones are specifically designed for outdoorsy people. |
 | Lip balm: In Scotland, lip balm is essential to prevent dry and chapped lips, especially in the potentially cool and windy weather. This Nivea one comes in a pack of 4 and has SPF, so your lips will never be dry again! |
 | Sleep mask: The sunrise is at 4am in July in Scotland so you will need proper blinds to black out the sunlight. Hotels will have proper curtains, but they may not be fully black-out. Guarantee your sanity and a good night’s sleep by bringing your own mask like this one to block the light. |
 | Pajamas: On our tours, we pair you up with a fellow solo female traveler that we think you’ll get along with – so don’t forget to pack your pajamas! Here’s a comfy choice from Amazon. |
 | Ear plugs: If you are a light sleeper, a pair of ear plugs can help you sleep better, though Scotland is generally a quiet destination. Check these out on Amazon. |
 | First aid kit and medication: Available medications, brands and products in Scotland may not be the same as back home, so it’s always best to bring everything you are used to and of course, all prescription medication or vitamins you take. You should also think about packing a basic first aid kit with items such as painkillers, plasters and antiseptic ointment, motion sickness tablets, antihistamines, electrolyte powder in case of diarrhea (or hangovers form all the whisky), plus any other tummy ache related tablets or medicines your doctor may suggest (antacid, diarrhea tablets, etc.). Don’t forget blister bandages in case you get blisters hiking. See our First Aid Kit list here. |
 | Large ziplock bags: These reusable ziplock bags can be useful to put dirty or wet shoes or clothes. |
 | A foldable toiletry bag: I always travel with a foldable toiletry bag which I can hang anywhere. They also help you keep everything easy to find and tidy. This one is very cute and functional! |