The Ultimate Carry On Packing List for Fall in Scotland

Scotland in the fall is a dream. Crisp air, dramatic landscapes, cozy pubs, and fewer crowds {including those annoying midges!} than in the summer months make it an ideal time to visit. But fall weather in Scotland can be unpredictable. Heck, weather in Scotland anytime, can be unpredictable! You might experience sunny weather one minute, misty and rainy the next with chilly winds picking up across the Highlands. Packing for a trip like this might feel daunting, especially if you're trying to stick to carry-on only like I try to.
The good news? It's absolutely possible! With some planning and smart layering, you can be comfortable, stylish, and prepared without overpacking. I've put together the ultimate carry-on packing list for fall in Scotland, complete with tips for clothing, shoes, accessories, and travel essentials.

The Ultimate Carry On Packing List for Fall in Scotland

We just returned from a 15-day trip, and we spent eight of those days in Scotland. We spent time in Edinburgh, Ft. William, Portree, and Inverness. We spent a LOT of time outside exploring the beautiful landscape and some time in the bigger cities exploring and walking the streets. We had a good mix of everything, which is why this list includes a little bit of everything!

Why Pack Carry On Only for Scotland?

Friends, I've seen the over packers hauling huge bags over cobblestone streets, lugging overweight bags up stairs one by one, and struggling uphill while trying to pull bags. You don't want to be that person! I'm a carry on only girl all the time, but especially when I'm traveling internationally and here's why.
Ease of Travel: Navigating airports, trains, and cobblestone streets in Scotland is so much easier without bulky luggage. Many accommodations, especially in older cities like Edinburgh, don't have elevators, so you'll be grateful for a smaller bag. 
We stayed on the first floor of a flat in Edinburgh and somehow managed to still have five flights of stairs to go up to get to the floor. Things are just built different in Scotland!
Flexibility: Domestic flights and budget airlines in the UK often have strict luggage rules. A carry-on ensures you avoid fees and long waits at baggage claim.
Simplicity: Packing light forces you to prioritize and be intentional with what you bring and prevents the overwhelm of too many outfits and choices.

How to Pack Everything You Need Into a Carry On

Carry On Packing Principals

Before we dive into the packing list, here are a few strategies that make packing for Scotland in the fall much easier:
1. Layers are key! The weather can change quickly, so having items you can layer {like tank tops, light shirts or sweatshirts, and waterproof jackets} is crucial. 
2. Stick to a color palette. Chose neutrals like black, gray, navy or olive with maybe one of two accent colors. This ensures everything can be mixed and matched.
3. Prioritize function over fashion. Scotland's cobblestones, rain, and hikes require practical shoes and weather-resistant clothing. You can still look good, but comfort in non-negotiable.
4. Use packing cubes! These maximize space and make it easier to grab what you need.
5. Wear your bulkiest items on the plane. Think boots, coat, and scarf. This frees up carry-on space.

Read more: 10 Packing Tips from a Recovered Overpacker

This was EXACTLY what I packed for our trip to Scotland in the fall so you can see exactly what was in my carry on bag for more than two weeks of travel!

Clothing Packing List for Fall in Scotland

Here's what to pack for a week or more in Scotland with only a carry-on. Adjust for longer trips by planning on doing laundry mid-trip or re-wearing items. 

Underwear/Socks

1 bra2 sports bras5-7 pairs of washable underwear {I love this brand!}2-3 pairs of wool socks

Tops

2 short-sleeved tank tops or t-shirts: Great for a base layer. Wool is prefect for this because it doesn't hold smell and washes quickly and easily. 2 base layers: Long-sleeved shirts or thermal tops. Breathable fabrics are best! These Lululemon tech tops are my favorite. I always get them secondhand or on serious discount. 2 sweatshirts: Something lightweight for hiking but that can be easily layered1-2 sweaters or nice blouse: For evenings out in the city2 short sleeved t-shirts: Great for layering under sweaters or jackets.
FYI, if you are looking for a guys list, just substitute a few of these base layers with these shirts. My husband LOVES these for travel.

Bottoms

1 pair of waterproof hiking pants: I brought these1 pair of long johns: I like Smartwool base layer pants1 pair of leggings or joggers: Comfortable for travel days or lounging.1 pair of jeans1 pair of travel pants: I like these because they look fancy, but they aren't!

Outerwear

Make sure you choose a jacket that you LOVE because it will be in most {if not all} of your photos!
Waterproof jacket: Scotland is famous for rain, so a lightweight but durable waterproof jacket is essential. Don't compromise on a hood! Scotland is also known for wind! Make sure the hood can cinch up to stay on your head on a blustery day.
Scarf: A wool or cashmere scarf can add extra warmth on cold days and a travel blanket on planes and trains. They are quite popular in Scotland, and you'll find them at most shops, so you can plan on purchasing it when you get there as your souvenir if you'd like. Just know that they are around $50 to start! Save money before you go and buy this one.
Hat or Beanie: Keep the heat in, and make sure you have a hat! Plus if you have long hair, a hat will help keep it in place.

Shoes

Do not underestimate the bogs! I don't think it was really on my radar how wet and muddy everything would be. And it is only going to get worse as the months progress! Many hiking trails are pure puddles. There are very few ways around it. And those cobblestone streets that are charming? They are also quite uneven and are perfect collectors for water!
Waterproof hiking boots: I had these, and I had bought them used, so that should have been my clue that they weren't as waterproof as they could be. Overall though, I liked them because they weren't heavy and didn't take up a lot of space in my luggage. 
Comfortable shoes: I packed a pair of tennis shoes I could walk around the town in. Something for when I wasn't hiking. FYI, they did take a beating, so don't take a pair you are precious about!

Extras

A reusable water bottle: This is our favorite one.
A reusable coffee cup: everything is much slower paced, and while every place we stayed in had free coffee, there were no reusable mugs for travel. So bring your own if you are an avid coffee or tea drinker.
Crossbody bag or day pack: This one is a great size without adding too much bulk and it cinches up for a good fit on those long hikes.

Toiletries and Personal Items

Keep toiletries simple and carry travel-sized versions. Remember that liquid restrictions apply for carry-on bags {each container 3.4 oz/100 ml or less, all fitting in a quart-sized bag}
Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner: Though I found that every place we stayed in actually had upscale boutique hair and body products so I barely used any of my own.
Body wash or soap
Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
Skincare essentials {cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen-yes, even in Scotland}
Makeup basics
Hairbrush and hair ties {it's windy!}
Any prescription medications
Lotion-I couldn't believe how dry my skin got even in a wet climate!

Electronics and Travel Essentials

Universal adapter: The UK uses a different plug than the US/CanadaThis plug is my favorite because it has so many outlets for everything.
Portable power bank: Perfect for long days exploring
Camera or smartphone with extra storage: Scotland is incredibly photogenic. I have a DSLR and I kind of wish I'd brought it because while your phone is good, it's not the same!
Headphone/earbuds: These are my favorite because they are under $20 and they last FOREVER on a charge.
Tripod: I love that this one folds down smaller than a curling iron and extends to 62"! That way, everyone can get in the photo!
Book: for cozy downtime

Packing Tips for Fall in Scotland

Layer strategically. Start with a tank or t-shirt, add a base layer, then a sweater or sweatshirt, then your jacket. This way, you can adjust to changing weather throughout the day.
Choose quick-dry fabrics. Scotland is damp, and quick-dry clothing makes a big difference if you get caught in the rain.
Plan for laundry. If you're traveling longer than a week, plan to do a load of laundry mid-trip. Many hotels and Airbnbs have laundry facilities, or you can use a laundromat. 
Use compression bags. These are great for keeping organized and for packing bulky items. I've been using these for years. I just bought a new set. I won't travel without them.
Wear your bulkiest outfit on the plane: Boots, jeans, sweater, and jacket, whatever is the bulkiest, that will be your travel outfit!
Find a place to stay in Scotland that comes complete with a washer to help make packing easier! We actually stayed here while in Portree and had the most lovely view of Old Man of Storr from our window! 

Sample 7-Day Packing List

At a glance, this will give you a quick visual, here's what I'd pack for a week in Scotland in the fall:
4 tops for layering2 long-sleeved tops/sweaters for going out1 leggings/joggers1 pair thermal long johns3 bottoms {waterproof hiking/travel pants}Waterproof jacketWaterproof bootsSneakersHat, scarf, gloves5 pairs underwear, 3 pairs wool socks, 2 pairs regular socksToiletries, electronics, daypack
This all fits neatly in a carry-on with space for souvenirs!
Packing for Scotland in the fall with only a carry-on doesn't mean sacrificing comfort or style. With a smart capsule wardrobe, layers, and weather-appropriate outerwear, you'll be ready for everything from exploring Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile to hiking in the Highlands or enjoying a cozy evening by the fire in a countryside inn. 
Traveling light gives you the freedom to focus on what matters most: soaking up the magic of Scotland!
So grab your carry-on, pack wisely, and get ready for a fall adventure in Scotland that you won't forget!



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