Complete Scotland Winter Packing List for December Travel

Scotland in December is crisp, chilly, and magical. With twinkling Christmas markets, dramatic Highland views, and festive pub culture, it’s a winter experience like no other. But with unpredictable weather and short daylight hours, you’ll want to pack smart—layers, waterproofs, and cozy accessories are essential.

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Temperatures range from icy in the Highlands to damp and grey in cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow. Expect wind, rain, snow—or all three in one day. Packing for versatility is key to enjoying your winter Scottish escape.

📝Note: This article is all about what to pack for Scotland in winter in December. Here you can find a huge and comprehensive list. Feel free to adapt to your needs, and share your tips in the comments!

Weather & Travel Context 🌦️

• 🌧️ Edinburgh: 1°C to 7°C (34°F to 45°F), windy and rainy.
• 🏔️ Highlands: -2°C to 4°C (28°F to 39°F), snow possible.
• 🌫️ Glasgow: 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F), damp and overcast.

What to Pack for Scotland in Winter in December

🧳 Luggage & Packing Tools

• 🧳 Waterproof suitcase – Withstand rainy streets and snow.
• 🎒 Daypack with rain cover – Ideal for day hikes and castle tours.
• 🧩 Packing cubes – Great for layering essentials.
• 👟 Shoe bags – Keep muddy boots away from clothes.
• 🧼 Toiletry bag – Organize your cold-weather skincare.
• 📂 Travel doc organizer – Store train passes and hotel bookings.
• 👜 Collapsible tote – Handy for pub groceries or markets.
• 🧺 Laundry pouch – Especially for wet socks and underwear.
• ⚖️ Digital luggage scale – Prevent overpacking woolies.
• 🔒 Lock – For hostels or B&Bs with shared storage.
• 🧻 Zip pouch – Ideal for heat packs and cold creams.
• 🧻 Quick-dry towel – For hostel stays or unexpected rain.
• 💤 Neck pillow – Comfortable rail rides through the Highlands.
• 😴 Sleep mask – For long nights in shared rooms.

👗 Clothes

• 👕 Long-sleeve base layers (3-5) – Essential thermal foundation.
• 🧥 Thick jumpers (2-3) – Cozy and perfect for pubs or hiking.
• 🧥 Waterproof winter coat – Down or wool-lined preferred.
• 👖 Thermal-lined jeans/trousers (2-3) – Warm + stylish.
• 🧣 Fleece leggings – Extra layer under trousers or skirts.
• 👚 Layering shirts – For changing indoor/outdoor temps.
• 🧦 Wool socks (6+) – Must-have for wet, cold days.
• 🧤 Gloves – Waterproof and windproof recommended.
• 🧢 Knit beanie – Lock in warmth.
• 🧣 Blanket scarf – Wear as accessory or wrap-up layer.
• 👘 Pajamas – Warm but not bulky.
• 🩲 Underwear (5-7) – Comfy base for layering.
• 🧴 Bras – Include a sports bra for hiking.
• 👗 Dress or skirt – For nice dinners or church services.

💆 Skincare

• 🧼 Hydrating cleanser – Combat dry, cold air.
• 💦 Toner – Moisture-locking base layer.
• 🧴 Thick moisturizer – Essential in freezing wind.
• 🧴 SPF – UV reflects off snowy landscapes.
• 🧽 Remover balm – Gentle and warming.
• 🧴 Exfoliator – Use sparingly in dry climate.
• 👁️ Eye cream – Helps with wind-chapped skin.
• 🌫️ Facial mist – Revives tired, travel-worn skin.
• 🎭 Hydrating masks (2-3) – Skin savers in winter.
• 💄 Lip balm – Never forget this one!
• 💊 Spot corrector – Weather and food changes can trigger breakouts.

💄 Makeup

• 🧴 Hydrating foundation – Dewy finish for dull days.
• 🖌️ Concealer – Cold-season must-have.
• 🧼 Matte powder – For shine control.
• 💗 Blush – Brighten your cheeks.
• ✨ Highlighter – Subtle winter glow.
• 🟤 Bronzer – Warm up your look.
• 🎨 Palette – Earth tones work well here.
• ✒️ Waterproof eyeliner – Rainy day approved.
• 👁️ Long-lasting mascara – Avoid smudge in drizzle.
• 🧴 Brow gel – Stay defined in the wind.
• 💄 Lip color – Add a pop to grey days.
• 💦 Setting spray – Help makeup last in damp air.
• 🖌️ Brushes – Compact and soft on skin.

💇 Hair Care

• 💇 Brush/comb – Detangle after beanie use.
• 🧷 Ties – Keep hair neat in wind.
• 🧴 Mini shampoo/conditioner – Moisturizing is key.
• 🌬️ Dry shampoo – Skip hotel blow dryers.
• 🔥 Heat spray – For styling tools.
• 🧴 Styling cream – Smooth frizz from humidity.
• 💨 Travel hair dryer – Not all inns provide one.
• 🪞 Straightener or curler – Choose one only.
• 💧 Serum – Lock in moisture.
• 🎀 Hair clips – Practical and chic.

👟 Shoes & Accessories

• 🥾 Waterproof boots – Absolute essential for mud/snow.
• 👟 Sneakers – For dry city days.
• 🥿 Dress shoes – If attending formal events.
• 🧤 Thermal gloves – Essential for Highland tours.
• 🕶️ Sunglasses – Glare from low winter sun.
• 🎩 Warm hat – Even under hoods.
• 👜 Crossbody or anti-theft bag – Handy and safe.
• ☂️ Compact umbrella – Scotland = rain.
• ⌚ Watch – Reliable when phones die.
• 💍 Accessories – Keep minimal but meaningful.

📑 Documents & Essentials

• 🛂 Passport + copies – Store digitally too.
• 📄 Visa (if needed) – UK visa info online.
• 🆔 National ID – Secondary ID backup.
• 💳 Credit card – Widely accepted, contactless preferred.
• 🧾 Insurance docs – Keep digital and printed versions.
• 🎟️ Train tickets + reservations – For Highland routes.
• 🗺️ Maps – Offline and online backup.
• 🖊️ Pen + small journal – Record your pub memories.
• 📒 Receipts – VAT refund possibility.
• 👛 Wallet – RFID-protected if possible.

🚑 First Aid

• 🩹 Band-aids – For blisters in wet boots.
• 🧻 Alcohol wipes – Clean up minor cuts.
• 🩺 Gauze + tape – Just in case.
• 🌡️ Thermometer – Monitor colds/flu.
• ✂️ Small scissors – Always handy.
• 🧽 Q-tips – Makeup and first aid use.

🧼 Health & Hygiene

• 💊 Daily medications – With extras.
• 💢 Cold/flu tablets – Scottish air hits hard.
• 🤧 Antihistamines – Wind can irritate sinuses.
• 🚗 Travel sickness pills – For winding roads.
• 💊 Vitamins – Immune boosters in winter.
• 🧻 Tissues – Keep plenty on hand.
• 🧴 Sanitizer – Especially in winter crowds.
• 🧽 Feminine hygiene – Bring what suits you best.
• 🪥 Toothbrush + paste – Compact and easy.
• 🪒 Razor – Optional but helpful.
• 🧴 Deodorant – Bring your preferred brand.
• 🌬️ Perfume – Fresh after soggy days.

📱 Tech & Electronics

• 📱 Smartphone – For maps, bookings, weather checks.
• 🔋 Power bank – Cold drains batteries fast.
• 🔌 UK power adapter – Type G plug.
• 📸 Camera – Capture the misty beauty.
• 💻 Tablet/laptop – Only if needed.
• 🎧 Headphones – Scottish playlists?
• 🗺️ Offline apps – Citymapper, Google Maps.
• 📶 SIM card or eSIM – Stay connected on the go.

🎧 Entertainment

• 📖 Travel book – Learn local legends.
• 🎧 Podcasts – Perfect for scenic drives.
• 🎲 Cards or compact game – Cozy nights in.
• 📝 Travel journal – Reflect on the adventure.

🎁 Extras

• 🍫 Snacks – Great for hikes and train rides.
• 💧 Refillable bottle – Save plastic + stay hydrated.
• 🛍️ Tote bag – For grocery runs or souvenir shops.
• 🧺 Detergent sheets – Wash socks on the go.
• 🧵 Sewing kit – Fix small snags or buttons.
• 🧦 Foot warmers – For long outdoor walks.
• 🧼 Shoe deodorizer – Wet boots need it!

🌍 Travel Tips

• ✅ Check train schedules and weather alerts daily.
• 📲 Download Scottish weather apps + map tools.
• 📸 Take photos of important docs.
• 🧥 Dress in layers, always carry waterproof outer layer.
• 💳 Inform bank about travel to UK.

🛂 Visa Tips

• 📄 Check UK visa requirements early.
• 📸 Carry printed copies of approval if needed.
• 📅 Proof of return travel + hotel stays.
• 🛃 Know what customs won’t allow.

⭐ Must-Haves

• 🛂 Passport + ID.
• 💳 Cards + backup cash.
• 🧴 Winter skincare + lip balm.
• 🧥 Waterproof boots + coat.
• 📱 Offline maps + SIM/eSIM.
• 🎧 Headphones + entertainment.

👍 Good-to-Have

• 😴 Sleep mask + earplugs for B&Bs.
• 🔖 Extra tote for gifts.
• 🧤 Extra gloves or thermal socks.
• 💤 Travel blanket for trains.