Know Before You Go

The following packing list contains general recommendations for a Scotland adventure. If you are currently booked on Scotland's Wild Highlands & Islands, please consult your pre-departure materials for the most up-to-date packing list for your trip. You will receive these pre-departure materials 60–90 days before your departure.

Items indicated in color below are typically available in the Nat Hab Gear Store. Please note that due to global supply chain issues beyond our control, we cannot guarantee that every item will always be in stock.

Clothing

• Lightweight neck gaiter (included in your pre-departure package)
  —Provides sun, wind and/or dust protection.
  

• Lightweight, breathable, WATERPROOF rain gear 
  —Weather during the adventure can be highly unpredictable. You should bring extra layers with you every day so you can stay warm while participating in our outdoor activities. Remember, in Scotland rain is always a possibility!
  —You will need both a rain jacket with a hood and rain pants. It is extremely important that your rain gear be fully waterproof, not just water repellent. Gore-Tex-type shells that can be layered over fleece should temperatures be chilly are ideal. Flimsy, plastic rain gear is easily torn, rendering it useless during the adventure, so we recommend avoiding these items when possible. Your rain gear may be your most useful pieces of clothing!

•  Quick-drying, synthetic clothing

•  Waterproof hiking boots (with ankle support and broken in to prevent blisters)

• Warm hat and gloves 

• Warm fleece or jacket 

•  Several pairs of socks made of wool or synthetic material.
  —Cotton socks are not recommended for hikes.

•  Water-resistant daypack (to carry camera gear and
  other equipment during outings) 

• 2–3 pairs of long pants (or nylon, zip-off pants)

• 2 pairs of shorts (you may not need extra shorts if you are bringing zip-off pants)

• 2–3 long-sleeved shirts

• 2–3 short-sleeved T-shirts 

• Undergarments

• Sleepwear

• Extra pair of walking shoes (tennis shoes are fine)

• Sun hat with brim (and strap so it won’t blow away) 
  
  

Additional Items

• Cash
  —For discretionary gratuities (you may want to bring envelopes for discreet presentation).
  —For personal spending (souvenirs, Internet use, or food and beverages not included in your trip fee).

• Binoculars
  —Binoculars are essential for this adventure! A good quality pair will definitely enhance your wildlife-viewing experience, and you will get the most out of them if you practice using them at home and make a habit of having them with you regularly on the adventure. Waterproof binoculars work well but are not required.

• Reusable water bottle (included in your pre-trip package)
  —In our continuing effort to operate our adventures with as little impact on the environment as possible, you will receive a reusable water bottle (unless you opted out on your Booking Form) to take with you on your adventure. We will provide drinking water throughout the adventure for you to refill your bottle. By doing this, you will avoid using multiple disposable plastic bottles.

• Outlet adapter and/or power converter 

• Hairdryer (optional and available at all accommodations)

• Sunglasses with UV filter

• Headlamp or small flashlight (if you are sharing a room with another traveler)

• Earplugs

• Toiletries in reusable bottles to minimize waste
  —Shampoo and soap are provided free of charge at all accommodations, so you only need to bring these items if you wish to use a specific brand. Conditioner is not provided.

• Hand sanitizer 

• Insect repellent and anti-itch ointment
  —Repellents containing DEET are the most effective against mosquitoes, but please be aware that DEET is a very strong ingredient that can damage plastics, clothing and equipment.

• Sunscreen and lip balm (at least SPF15)

• Prescription medications and favorite remedies
  —For headaches, colds, upset stomach, skin irritations, etc.
  —If you are prone to motion sickness you may want to bring your favorite remedy for boat activities.

• Washcloth
  —You may wish to bring a washcloth if you prefer to use one, as they may not be provided at all accommodations.

• Prescription glasses/contact lenses

• Reusable waterproof bags 
  —Bring several sizes. These are great for wet or dirty clothing and for protecting camera equipment.

• Hiking poles (optional) 
  —If you are bringing hiking poles, they must be able to fit in your check-in luggage, as you will not be allowed to carry them on the plane.