Your Complete Guide to Packing for Scotland’s West Highland Way

Planning to hike the West Highland Way in Scotland? This complete packing guide has you covered. Discover what to wear, what to carry, and how to prepare for Scotland’s unpredictable weather. From hiking boots to bug spray, this list will help you pack light — and smart — for your West Highland Way adventure.

Completing Scotland’s legendary West Highland Way hike is the adventure of a lifetime. Stretching over 96 miles from Milngavie (just outside Glasgow) to Fort William in the Highlands, the West Highland Way is beginner-friendly, but not to be underestimated! Whether you’re walking it in five days or taking your time over eight, packing smart will make or break your trip. The last thing you want is to be hauling an overweight bag or scrambling to stay dry in one of Scotland’s famous surprise downpours. Let this guide help you prepare for all four seasons in one day – and ensure you arrive at the end exhilarated, not exhausted.

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Decision #1: Carry or Luggage Delivery?

Before you start laying out your gear, decide whether you’ll be carrying your own backpack the entire way or using a luggage transfer service like Travel Lite or AMS.

If you want to enjoy the West Highland Way without carrying a heavy backpack, consider using a luggage transfer service. These West Highland Way porter services pick up your bags each morning and deliver them to your next accommodation, so you can hike with just a lightweight daypack. It’s a popular choice for walkers of all ages and abilities, especially on longer treks. Companies like Travel-Lite, AMS Scotland, and Baggage Freedom offer reliable, affordable transfers along the entire West Highland Way route. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak hiking season from May to September.

• If carrying your own gear: You’ll want to go ultralight. Every extra item will weigh on your shoulders and knees.
• If using delivery: You can afford a few more comforts, but your daypack should still be kitted out with essentials for unpredictable weather, snacks, and safety.

Your West Highland Way Packing List

Note that this list assumes you are staying in accommodation en-route rather than camping.

🥾 Hiking Essentials

• Backpack (40-60L if carrying everything; 15-25L for daypack) – my trusty favourites are the Osprey Hiking and Osprey Backpacking ranges.
• Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots (waterproof if possible) – my go-to brands are Columbia and Merrell.
• 5+ pairs of high-quality hiking socks (merino wool recommended like these Women’s Wool Walking Hiking Thermal Socks) – I’d suggest taking a pair for each day plus 1 or 2 extra, as you don’t want to be hiking in wet socks
• Waterproof jacket (breathable, with a hood)
• Waterproof trousers or gaiters
• Walking trousers or leggings (quick-dry fabric)
• 3-4 moisture-wicking tops (some long-sleeved for sun/midge protection)
• Fleece or insulated mid-layer (lightweight but warm)
• Buff or neck gaiter
• Midge head-net and strong insect repellent
• Reusable water bottle or hydration system (at least 2 litres) – I recommend using a Foldable Hydration Bladder to keep weight down. There are plenty of water refill points along the way.
• Map and compass or GPS app (like Maps.me or AllTrails)
• Sun hat and sunglasses (yes, even in Scotland!)

🏕️ Comfort and Clothing

• Sleepwear
• Underwear (quick-dry)
• Lightweight camp shoes (for evenings)
• Change of clothes for evenings and rest days
• Lightweight towel (optional as accommodation generally provide these)
• Packable down jacket or extra warm layer (for chilly evenings): Patagonia Women’s Nano Puff Hiking Jacket

🧼 Toiletries and Personal Items

• Compact toiletries kit (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.) – you can use Toothpaste Tablets to reduce weight and less likelihood of leaking.
• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF – the Scottish sun / wind / rain combo can be very drying!
• Blister plasters (Compeed) and a basic first-aid kit (with Ibuprofen)
• Tick removal tool
• Travel-size deodorant (please – for the sake of other walkers!)
• Hand sanitiser and tissues
• Muscle rub (Deep Heat – an absolute necessity!)

🍿 Food

• Emergency snacks (high-protein nuts, dried fruit and energy bars)

There are plenty of places to get food along the West Highland Way, so I wouldn’t pack too much – just make sure you have something in case you feel light-headed or get stuck somewhere!

🪙 Miscellaneous

• Coins for honesty boxes and rural toilets
• Dry bags or ziplock bags (for electronics, snacks, and keeping clothes dry)
• Trekking poles (optional but very helpful on steep or long days)
• Head torch (rechargeable or with spare batteries)
• Waste bags

📱 Apps and Technology

• Maps.me or AllTrails (download offline maps in advance)
• Wise card for managing GBP if you’re coming from abroad
• Charging cable and power bank (you’ll be surprised how few plug points there are in some guesthouses!)
• E-reader or downloaded podcast playlist for downtime
• Electrical socket adapter (non-UK walkers) – or just get a UK socket USB/USB-C charger

📋 Essentials You Shouldn’t Forget

• Passport or ID (especially if you’re checking into hotels)
• Travel insurance (including hiking coverage)
• Printed copy of your itinerary and accommodation info (signal isn’t guaranteed)

Is there anything you think I’ve missed? Let me know in the comments below 👇

🌦️ Top Tip: Check the Weather Before You Go

Scottish weather can be wild and changeable, even in summer. Before setting off, take a few minutes to check a reliable and visual weather forecast.

🧭 I recommend using the BBC Weather Map: https://www.bbc.com/weather/map

You can zoom in on your route and watch weather systems move across the country in real time. It’s a fantastic tool for spotting oncoming rain or planning your departure time to avoid the worst of it. Save it to your bookmarks before your hike!

Final Tips

• Do not overpack. Every ounce counts.
• Check the weather daily and adapt your daypack accordingly.
• Pack layers – Scotland’s climate can swing from sunshine to sleet in a single hour.
• Test your gear beforehand. Don’t let a brand new rucksack or boots ruin your hike.

By packing with purpose and flexibility, you’ll be free to enjoy Scotland’s wild landscapes, charming towns, and epic sense of freedom. Happy hiking!

Further Exploring: What Else to Do in Scotland

If you’re planning a longer trip to Scotland, there are plenty of other incredible destinations to explore. From the dramatic peaks of the Highlands and the remote beauty of the Isle of Skye to the vibrant culture of Edinburgh and Glasgow, Scotland offers a rich tapestry of history, nature, and adventure. Be sure to check out my other posts about travelling in Scotland for more inspiration, tips, and detailed guides on must-see places.

No matter where your journey takes you in Scotland, you’re bound to be captivated by its breathtaking landscapes, deep-rooted culture, and warm hospitality. Safe travels, and don’t forget to pack your sense of adventure!

👉 Find cheap flights to Scotland here.

Practical Guidance for Scotland

Hopefully this post will have inspired you to book a trip to Scotland. I’ve also included some useful information for Scotland in general below. If you plan all the boring stuff in advance you can relax and enjoy your trip more!

How to Get to Scotland & Where to Find Cheap Flights

Scotland is well connected to the rest of the world, with major international airports in Edinburgh (EDI), Glasgow (GLA), and Aberdeen (ABZ). Most international travellers arrive via Edinburgh or Glasgow, which have frequent flights from cities across Europe, North America, and beyond. From these hubs, it’s easy to access the rest of Scotland by train, bus, rental car, or domestic flights.

To find cheap flights to Scotland, use comparison tools like Skyscanner. Booking several months in advance or flying mid-week often results in better prices—especially if you’re travelling outside of peak summer months (June to August). Budget airlines like easyJet, Ryanair, and Jet2 also offer competitive fares from various European cities, so keep an eye out for deals and flash sales.

👉 Find cheap flights to Scotland here.

Transport from Glasgow airport to Milngavie (West Highland Way Starting Point)

Arriving to a new airport can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve just come off a long haul flight. I recommend planning in advance for ease and so that you feel safe.

Personally, I like to book an airport pickup in advance with Welcome Pickups. You prepay when you book at a flat rate that matches the local standard fare. The advantage of Welcome Pickups over rideshare apps is that there is no surge pricing. The Welcome Pickups app is also incredibly easy to use and I was able to chat to my driver via the app to coordinate a meeting spot. Welcome Pickups operate in lots of different countries worldwide. You can sign up here.

Money in Scotland (UK): (GBP)

If you’re visiting Scotland you’ll need British Pound Sterling (GBP). To get GBP at the best rates, I highly recommend getting a WISE card before you go. This allows you to convert money into GBP (or any other currency!) at the best rates and then spend on your Wise card as though it were a local bank card or withdraw cash in Scotland without hidden fees. Wise is a UK-based financial services company (available in most countries worldwide) and is highly regulated in the various regions it operates in (in the UK it is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority).

Get your WISE card here.

SIM Card and Data for Scotland

There are two main options for getting a SIM card and data to use in Scotland:

Option 1: eSIM with Airalo

The main advantages of purchasing an eSIM via Airalo (enter the referral code ROWAN1271 for a discount) are:

• you do not need to insert a physical SIM card, so you can keep your home country SIM in your phone
• you can get a multi-country eSIM rather than having to get a new one each time you go to a new country
• you can download the eSim before you leave your home country, meaning that you will have data immediately on arrival. This gives you peace of mind and is perfect for using Google Maps and rideshare apps etc.
• You can top up your data allowance via the app

Option 2: Buy a local physical SIM card

The main advantages of purchasing a local SIM card are:

• Local SIM cards generally offer better rates. You can often (depending on the country) get a lot more data for a lower price.
• You will get a local phone number which is better for making local calls / text messages

Personally I think Airalo is the best for short holidays or if you are only spending a short time in each country. If you’re staying for a longer time, or if like me you use a lot of data, a local physical SIM card may be better.

Get your Airalo eSIM here. Enter the referral code ROWAN1271 for a discount.

Best Travel Insurance Providers for Scotland

As well as planning your Your West Highland Way Packing List, you should also make sure you have travel insurance for the duration of the trip. Here are two excellent travel insurance providers that I highly recommend for solo travellers or families visiting Scotland:

1. Heymondo Travel Insurance

I personally use Heymondo for all my trips, and it’s one of the easiest and most reliable travel insurance options I’ve found. Their app is incredibly user-friendly, allowing you to access your policy, make claims, and contact support directly from your phone. Heymondo offers excellent coverage, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and more. I highly recommend it for anyone planning to visit Scotland.

Why choose Heymondo?

• Comprehensive coverage: Offers medical, cancellation, and baggage coverage.
• User-friendly app: Manage your policy easily from anywhere.
• Global assistance: 24/7 emergency assistance available.

👉 Purchase Heymondo travel insurance.

2. SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

For digital nomads, long-term travellers, or those planning an extended stay in Indonesia, SafetyWing Nomad Insurance is an excellent choice. It’s specifically designed for globally mobile individuals, and their flexible plans can be tailored to suit your travel style. SafetyWing covers medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip interruptions, and even COVID-19-related issues. Ideal for travellers who need long-term protection.

Why choose SafetyWing?

• Flexible plans: Ideal for long-term travellers or digital nomads.
• COVID-19 coverage: Includes coverage for COVID-19-related disruptions.
• Affordable pricing: Competitive rates for extended travel coverage.

👉 Find Out More About SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

Plan Your Trip to Scotland: Useful Links

🌞 Useful Travel Resources & Essentials 🌞

Planning your next trip? These are my ride-or-die travel tools — handpicked, tested, and essential. The smart stuff I actually use to book fast, travel safer, and stress less. I don’t gatekeep when it comes to travel!

✈️ Pro tip: Set these up before your trip so you can hit the ground running. Travel smarter, not harder.

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