3 Tips for Road Tripping in Scotland
My family and I recently traveled to Scotland. We had to postpone it due to COVID so we were excited and READY to go! Let me tell you, it 100% lived up to our expectations. But there are a few things you should know if you’re planning to hop around the country.
First, a little back story.
A while ago I gave my young son 2 options for vacation- Belize or Scotland. We talked about the differences and what we would see and do in each place. He decided on Scotland. He was 4 or 5 at the time. Say what??? Were we crazy to let him decide? Not at all! We always make sure to include him in the decision making process to keep him invested in our adventures. Of course, he doesn’t realize yet that we are strategic about what decisions we let him make.
Anyway, let’s get back to it.
Here are my 3 TIPS FOR ROAD TRIPPING THROUGH SCOTLAND:
Pack Layers
The #1 most important thing to know- Scotland’s weather can’t make up its mind. It changes constantly (and that’s saying something from someone that lives in Montana!).
I recommend having a little bit of everything, depending on the time of year. Pieces of clothing that can be used interchangeably. Short sleeve and long sleeve shirts. Light jacket or sweater. Rain coat (this is a must). Moisture-wicking scarf to keep you warm and dry on those chilly days. Coat, gloves, hat for winter months. Waterproof hiking boots.
And, to help you get it all in your carry-on, wear your bulkier clothes and shoes on the plane.
2. Travel Light
Scotland is not a big place. The roads are small, often single lane (especially outside the cities). The cars are typically smaller. You definitely won’t see nearly as many large SUVs and trucks as you do here in the U.S. Accommodations and rooms in Europe are smaller with tiny elevators and often include walking up some stairs.
All these things make it ideal to travel with a carry-on. I know, that might sound crazy if you’re an over packer (like me) or like to have lots of variety. But, when you’re road tripping through the Scottish countryside, you’ll be thankful to only lug around a carry-on and a personal item (backpack, purse, etc.).
Trust me. If I could make it two weeks with this, you can too!
3. Be Prepared to do Laundry in your Room
If you’ve packed lightly in a carry-on, you’ll likely need to do some laundry. You can head to a laundromat or use your hotel’s laundry services, if you stay in place for long enough. If you’re traveling the countryside and not staying in one place very long, plan to wash clothes in the sink. Things like shirts, undies, and maybe socks.
For this, laundry sheets are going to be your best friend. They are very light and thin and will fit nicely in your carry-on. A laundry line designed for travel is also great to have with you. Otherwise, you’ll have clothing sprawled all over your room.
(Dri-fit clothing is the best for quick drying!)
Even having to do sink laundry, you can’t beat the freedom of road tripping in Scotland. But no matter how you choose to explore this breathtaking country I promise you an amazing adventure awaits. Filled with castles, history, culture, whiskey, and, of course, sheep in the road…
