What to Pack for a Walk (and Why You’ll Thank Yourself Later)
Walking in Scotland is a bit like spinning a weather roulette wheel! sun, rain, hail, wind, and midges are all in the running, sometimes in the same hour.
Packing smart means you’re ready for anything, so your day is remembered for the views and the laughs, not for being cold, wet, or starving.
Here’s your complete SWWG-approved guide to walking gear, with the why behind every item.
What to Wear
Waterproof Outer Layer – The single most important piece. Keeps you dry, blocks the wind, and helps you stay warm even if the weather turns nasty.
Insulating Midlayer – A fleece, softshell, or lightweight down jacket. Perfect for pulling on when you stop for a break and the temperature drops.
Breathable Baselayer – Moves sweat away from your skin so you don’t get chilled. Avoid cotton; it stays wet and will cling to you like a cold, damp tea towel.
Walking Trousers – Quick-dry fabrics let you move comfortably and won’t soak up water like jeans do.
Waterproof Overtrousers – Keep them in your rucksack for sudden showers or boggy terrain.
Hat & Gloves – Even in summer. A windchill at the top of a hill can make it feel like November.
Buff/Neck Gaiter – Tiny, lightweight, and endlessly useful for warmth, wind, or even an emergency bandage.
Rucksack/Daypack – Adjustable straps and a waist belt make a world of difference when you’re carrying a full load.
A Watch – Or another reliable way to tell the time if your phone dies.
On Your Feet
Breathable Walking Socks – Wool or technical socks reduce blisters and wick moisture.
Walking Boots or Shoes – Pick based on terrain. Good tread and ankle support are worth their weight in gold.
Gaiters (optional but brilliant) – Stops water, mud, snow, and gravel from invading your boots.
In Your Rucksack
First Aid Kit – Include blister plasters, antiseptic wipes, pain relief, and any personal medication.
Mobile Phone & Portable Charger – A dead phone is useless for emergencies.
Emergency Whistle – Small but mighty when you need to be heard.
Map & Compass – Phones fail, paper doesn’t.
Torch or Head Torch – Winter days are short, and even summer walks can run late.
Suncream – The Scottish sun can burn you through cloud.
Sunglasses – For bright days and glare from snow or water.
Blister Relief – Because one hotspot can ruin your day.
Spare Laces – A snapped lace on a descent is dangerous and annoying.
Bottled Water – More than you think you’ll drink. Hydration keeps you sharp.
Water Filter or Purification Tablets – Handy for long days in remote spots.
Flask of Hot Drink – Tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. It’s morale in a mug.
High Energy Snacks – Trail mix, flapjacks, nut butter sachets, slow and fast energy in your pocket.
Packed Lunch – Something you actually look forward to eating, wraps travel better than squashed sandwiches.
Any Necessary Medication – Always bring spares.
Spare Warm Layer – The weather can drop ten degrees the moment you sit still.
Spare Socks – Dry feet are happy feet.
Lightweight Waterproof Bag Cover – Keeps your kit dry.
Survival Bag – Hopefully never used, but a literal lifesaver if needed. A survival bag is a strong, lightweight plastic bag designed to reduce heat loss and provide emergency shelter. Unlike a sleeping bag, it has no insulation. It is simply a protective layer that can be used to retain body heat and protect against wind, rain, and exposure.
Emergency Contact Details – Written down, not just in your phone.
Optional Extras That Make a Big Difference
Walking Poles – Take pressure off your knees and improve balance.
Sit Mat – Keeps your bum dry and warm at breaks.
Small Plastic Bags – For rubbish, muddy boots, or wet clothes.
Head Net – Midges. Enough said.
Mini Sewing Kit or Duct Tape – Fixes ripped kit, broken straps, and more.
Tiny Roll of Toilet Paper & Hand Sanitiser – Nature calls. Be prepared.
Waterproof Phone Pouch – Keeps your phone safe in rain or river crossings.
Camera – For those moments when Scotland really does look like a postcard.
Final Thoughts
It might feel like a lot, but once you’ve got your kit sorted, packing becomes second nature.
Think of it this way: every item in your bag should either keep you safe, comfortable, or happy. If it ticks at least one of those boxes, it’s worth the space.
Scotland will test your kit but with the right gear, you’ll always have the upper hand.