Scottish winters can feel like all four seasons in a day, with icy winds, mild sunny days and the occasional blizzard. So, if you’re scratching your head over what to wear in Scotland in winter, this guide can help.
I’ve put together a list of my favourite essentials based on my own winter trips to Scotland. And if you prefer the quick answer, as long as you have base layers, fleeces, comfortable trousers, good shoes and a waterproof jacket, you can face almost any element that winter brings.
This winter packing list is for adventure lovers wanting to get outdoors and explore Scotland’s natural beauty. If that sounds like you, keep reading to find your winter outfit inspiration for Scotland.
Scotland in Winter: Weather & What to Expect

Scottish weather is unpredictable all year round but in winter, you have the added challenge of harsh conditions, biting winds and chilly temperatures. It’s no exaggeration that people say you can experience all four seasons in a day!
Winter is the wettest time of year in Scotland (outside of October which is the wettest month of the year). You can expect regular rain showers but they don’t last long. A mix of sunny and overcast days is also common with occasional snow and ice.
The daytime average temperature in winter is around 5°C (41°F) and the coldest months are January and February. Up in the highlands, you’ll find snow and ice from around December and Scotland’s five ski resorts are in full swing.
Winter is also the darkest time of year, with the sun setting as early as 3pm in December in the northernmost reaches. You’ll need to factor in limited daylight when planning your winter activities in Scotland.
With all that said, layering up and wearing a warm, windproof jacket will keep you snug whatever the weather. Keep reading to find out what to pack for Scotland in winter.
Month | November | December | January | February |
Average Temp. | 2-8°C | 1-6°C | 0-6°C | 0-6°C |
Average Days with Rain | 18 days | 18 days | 18 days | 15 days |
What to Pack for Scotland in Winter

1. Base and Thermal Layers
Base layers will be your best friend during Scotland’s winter months. They give you an extra layer of insulation in cold temperatures which is vital in the harsh, windy conditions of the Scottish Highlands and the blustery islands along the west coast.
If you plan to be active outdoors, base layers will be essential for regulating your body temperature as they wick sweat away from your skin. Look for materials with breathable, moisture-wicking properties like bamboo, merino or cotton.
The best thermal layers I recommend:
BAM Sudbrook Slim Fit Base Layer
I tend to get my long-sleeved tops from BAM as the brand’s clothes have the perfect balance of practicality, quality and comfort.
I have the Sudbrook Slim Fit Base Layer in black. It’s made from stretchy bamboo viscose and organic cotton jersey, plus it has thumb holes to keep wrists cosy!
2. Fleeces and Jumpers


I love a cosy fleece in winter. They’re insulating, multi-functional and quick-drying which gives them the edge over knitwear for travelling.
Fleeces don’t have to be bulky to be warm. I have a couple that are warm but lightweight so they don’t take up huge amounts of room in my bag.
This is an essential factor for me when travelling around Scotland as I often have to shed layers when I get too hot and don’t want to carry around something huge and bulky.
My favourite winter jumpers:
Passenger Recycled Sherpa Fleece
I LIVE in my Recycled Sherpa Fleece all winter. It’s made from recycled polyester fleece and it’s super thick and cosy. It has zip-up pockets to stick your hands in and a handy breast pocket for small essentials.
On warmer days, I can get away with wearing it without a jacket. In case you want to wear it underneath a jacket, a loose-fitting one is best as it’s bulky.
North Face Glacier 100
I also pack a couple of midweight fleeces from North Face as they’re much more lightweight than regular jumpers – and far less bulky in my suitcase.
To keep things simple, I have the Glacier 100 in black and white as I can throw them on pretty much all my outfits!
Celtic & Co. Fair Isle Jumper
Winter in Scotland is the perfect excuse to dig out your Fair Isle knitwear. Originating from Fair Isle between Orkney and Shetland, this style of knitting was used to make hardy jumpers for sailors.
British brand Celtic & Co. make ethical Fair Isle jumpers from Shetland-style yarn. These make lovely, traditional outfits for winter in Scotland.
3. Trousers, Jeans and Leggings


Jeans are absolutely fine when casually exploring cities like Edinburgh in winter as long as they’re comfy to walk in.
They can rub and take a while to dry when wet, which is why I prefer specialist trousers for active outdoor adventures.
The best ones are insulating and thermal with some water resistance to keep your legs dry in the elements.
My go-to winter trousers:
ACAI Outdoors Thermal Trousers
ACAI Outdoors have got thermal trousers down and they look stylish so you don’t feel like you’re wearing outdoor gear. The Thermal Skinny Trousers are fleece-lined and come in multiple colours.
They’re stretchy and have a DWR water-repellent finish. The brand also does casual and baggier fits but they’re not thermal, so you might need…
ACAI Outdoors Thermal Leggings
ACAI Outdoors makes thermal leggings in full length and ⅞ length so you can get the coverage you need.
You can wear them on their own but they will give you that extra warmth when worn as a base layer under jeans or trousers on very chilly days. I love the Roasted Fig colour.
4. Thick socks


Nothing compares to walking socks even if you’re not doing big hikes. They’re more practical for long-term use and don’t wear out on the toe. They’re a bit thicker than average socks, keeping your feet extra snug in the elements.
If you get cold feet like me, thick winter socks are a godsend, particularly when paired with a boot. Just make sure you choose a pair with moisture-wicking properties as there’s nothing worse than a sweaty foot…
The best socks I recommend for winter:
BAM Twist Walking Socks
Once again, I like BAM. Their 3/4 Twist Walking Socks are made from cosy but breathable bamboo and merino wool. They are soft and have a reinforced toe and heel so you don’t have to worry about holes. They’re odour-controlling too!
Finisterre Kelson Sock
Finisterre’s Kelson Sock is made from a responsibly sourced wool blend with a hard-wearing ribbed construction. They can double up as walking socks or bed socks.
5. Insulated Winter Jacket

The worst part about Scotland’s winter weather isn’t the cold but the biting wind that can cut through you like a knife.
A good windproof jacket is essential for your Scotland winter packing list as it’s your best protection against the freezing wind. Mine made all the difference when I climbed Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh and on my blustery walks in the Cairngorms National Park.
Of course, your jacket should be water-resistant at the very least as winter is the wettest time of year in Scotland. Even on days when there aren’t showers, you might encounter freezing mist or drizzle – or maybe even snow!
Best jackets for Scotland in winter:
Passenger Pow Recycled Insulated Jacket 2.0
I have the Pow Recycled Insulated Jacket 2.0 from Passenger. It’s lightweight enough to stuff in my bag when I’m not wearing it but it’s also very cosy. In fact, I found myself occasionally overheating!
The jacket is loose enough to fit a sweater underneath and it has an adjustable hood. It’s water-resistant rather than fully waterproof, so if you prefer a proper rain jacket, the Rainstorm series might be a better fit – although equally, they aren’t insulated so you’ll need a fleece.
Passenger Tasman Recycled 2.0 Long Insulated Jacket
Passenger’s Tasman Jacket keeps your legs cosy as well as your torso which might be a better alternative to Pow if you really feel the cold.
It’s padded with imitation down wadding and has a water-repellant coating so it will keep you dry in most weather except for heavy downpours.
6. Walking Boots and Winter Shoes


Sturdy, well-insulated footwear is essential in Scotland in winter. You’ll be dealing with mud, rain and maybe even snow and ice. Even if you don’t plan on going hiking, you’ll still need footwear you can comfortably walk in.
Thick materials are best otherwise the wind will blow straight through and you’ll want soles with a good grip so you don’t slip. Make sure they’re waterproof because you don’t want to get wet feet.
Leave high heels at home. They’re just not worth the hassle of navigating Edinburgh’s cobblestone streets. And there are a lot of hills!
The winter footwear I wear:
Will’s Vegan Store Hiking Boots
I’ve been wearing the WVSport Waterproof Hiking Boots from Will’s Vegan Store for a while now. These hiking boots are made in Italy and are designed to handle long distances and multiple terrains.
They’re waterproof, sturdy and comfortable. I’ve also never got a blister from them even when breaking them in. You can find out more about what I think of these walking boots in my full review.
Will’s Vegan Store Insulated Boots
Will’s Vegan Store also has a great selection of insulated boots in classic, practical styles – and they’re vegan! Choose from Chelsea boots, biker boots, work boots, or my personal favourite Dock Boots.
They’re a similar style to Timberlands and can be dressed up or down with jeans or a winter skirt. Most importantly, they’re insulated!
Editor’s tip: if you plan to do some hillwalking in Scotland, you will need specialist winter gear and expert knowledge. Hiking is never something to be undertaken lightly at this time of year.
7. Scarf, Hat and Gloves


You’ll want to keep yourself cosy and warm against the bitter winds with a good pair of gloves, a hat and a scarf.
Merino and cashmere wool are best as they both have fine fibres that lock in warmth and they have some water resistance.
They also aren’t as scratchy as other types of wool can be. Just make sure you buy from ethical brands that source their wool from non-mulesed sheep.
The winter accessories I wear when visiting Scotland:
Gloves
ACAI Outdoors makes water-resistant, thermal gloves which can be adjusted at the wrist for maximum warmth. They have a silicone grip and touchpad so you can use your phone without having to take them off.
Hat
I have a woolly beanie from Buff. They are a certified B Corporation from Spain and their merino wool comes from mulesing-free suppliers. If you would rather do without wool, bamboo beanies from BAM are another great alternative.
Scarf
WoolOvers makes pure wool scarves in practically every colour under the sun so they’re the perfect winter fashion staple.
You can get wide versions that can double up as a blanket on long train journeys. The wool is certified by Responsible Wool Standard.
I also have a cashmere snood which is just as cosy but takes up less space. Mine is handmade but you can also get good quality ones from Celtic & Co, Brora and Buff. Aim for merino or cashmere as they’re soft and lightweight.
Looking for a Full Packing List for Scotland?
This list just covers what to wear in Scotland in winter. if you’re looking for a full guide to travel accessories, bags, camera gear and other essentials, read my complete Scotland packing list.
Final Thoughts on What to Wear in Scotland in Winter

Scotland’s winters can be harsh with chilly temperatures and prevailing winds but it’s also a magical time of year to visit. Snow blankets the highlands like a winter wonderland and the darker skies bring greater chances of spotting the Northern Lights.
Packing the right winter gear for Scotland will keep you snug and warm whatever the elements but you don’t have to overthink it.
A mix of base layers and fleeces, a water-resistant and windproof coat, comfy trousers and sturdy shoes will see you through no matter what.
Looking for more Scotland travel tips? Check out these posts!
- Water-To-Go Review: The Best Water Filter Bottle For Travel?
- The BEST Train from London to Edinburgh in 2024 (Review)
- Visiting Scotland Without a Car in 2024: the Ultimate Guide
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