I recently spent almost 3 weeks traveling through Scotland and Ireland and it was imperative that I pack light. We traveled through Scotland by rail and then took a mini-bus tour of Ireland, changing hotels every night! This meant a lot of hauling my luggage in and out of hotels, train stations, and busses.
For a 3-week trip through Scotland and Ireland (and you could even add England, too), you’ll want to pack light enough to manage trains, stairs, and cobblestone streets while still being prepared for cool, damp, and changeable weather.
Weather Expectations
Check the average temperatures for when you are going, but expect anything. They say that you will likely experience every season in one day – and boy was this true! I was there in September/October so the averages in Scotland were 45–60°F (7–16°C), and in Ireland they were 50–63°F (10–17°C).
Keep in mind, rain is possible any day, especially in Scotland and western Ireland. Think more about waterproof outer wear rather than jeans and sneakers that will take days to dry.
Packing Strategy To Pack Light for Scotland & Ireland Travel
A good rule is to pack for one week, not three weeks. Trains often have limited luggage space, and you’ll appreciate having a lighter suitcase when boarding trains, navigating stations, and walking to hotels over cobbled streets. Most travelers find that a carry-on-sized suitcase plus a daypack is ideal for a three-week journey.
To pack light for your rail trip in Scotland and Ireland, prioritize layers, waterproof gear, and comfortable walking shoes over bulky clothing. You’ll stay comfortable whether you’re exploring Inverness, walking the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, or visiting the countryside in Ireland.
Plan to re-wear clothes and do “sink washes” of your undergarments during the trip. Pants, tops, and even socks can be worn again with a little Febreeze and an overnight air-out! And honestly, nobody is going to see your shirt under the light jacket/rain coat you will wear most of the trip!
Luggage
- One 20–22 inch rolling suitcase. Beware of a larger one as you will need to navigate cobbled streets and steps!
- One daypack or backpack
- Small crossbody bag or money belt for valuables
Clothing
- 6-7 casual shirts (mix short and long sleeve for layering)
- 1 nicer top if you have fancy dinner plans somewhere
- 2 lightweight sweaters or fleeces
- 2 pairs comfortable walking pants
- 1 pair dark jeans
Outerwear
- Lightweight waterproof rain jacket with hood
- Packable insulated jacket or vest to layer under the raincoat when needed
Undergarments
- 7 pairs underwear
- 7 pairs socks (include several wool-blend pairs)
- Sleepwear
Footwear
If you really want to pack light, do not bring more than two pair of shoes to Scotland and Ireland. They take up tons of space!
- Waterproof walking shoes or trail shoes if you plan to do any hiking
- Comfortable second pair of shoes
- Optional lightweight slippers or flip flops for hotels
Accessories
- Lightweight scarf
- Thin gloves
- Sunglasses
- Hat or cap
- Reusable water bottle
- Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Power bank
- Camera and charger, if you don’t just use your phone like most of us
- UK/Ireland Type G electrical adapter – check out my post on packing your electronics kit
- Charging cables
- Earbuds or headphones
Travel Essentials
- Passport
- Travel insurance information
- Rail tickets or rail pass information
- 2 credit cards, and ATM card, and small amount of cash
- Necessary Toiletries – see my post on how to pack the perfect toiletry kit
- Prescription medications
- Copies of important documents stored electronically (and in hard copy)
Daypack Items to Carry During Sightseeing
- Rain jacket
- Small umbrella
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Small first-aid kit – see my guide to packing the perfect medical kit
- Guidebook or travel app information
Scotland-Specific Items Even When You Pack Light
- Warm fleece layer or a silk base layer
- Bring wool socks – they work best in cold, and yes even warm, weather
- Consider a knit cap for windy days
- Waterproof footwear becomes especially valuable
Are You Ready to Pack Light for Scotland and Ireland?
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