Traveling to Scotland with a baby? It’s a magical idea, but the reality of packing can feel overwhelming, especially with the unpredictable Scottish weather. We enjoyed our rainy September adventure with our little one and learned firsthand what’s truly essential for a happy, comfortable baby (and parents!) in the Highlands. Here’s your comprehensive guide to packing for Scotland with a baby (carry-on only!), ensuring a smooth and memorable trip, even when the rain clouds roll in.
TL;DR: Shop the whole post here.
Packing for Mom (or Dad!): Comfort and Functionality
Scotland demands layers and adaptability. Here’s what I found indispensable:
- Clothing:
- Multiple pairs of warm socks (preferably Merino wool) and waterproof hiking boots (essential!)
- Layers: Puffy vest, warm coat, stylish coat, and a reliable raincoat
- Pants that dry quickly, and a few comfortable dresses
- Underwear, bras, and nursing tanks (if needed)
- A set of comfortable clothes for the plane (this sweatshirt is my fav)
- Beanie, wide-brim hats, and hair scarves (World Market has the best wool hats!)
- A cute scarf that doubles as a nursing cover-up. (This one’s only $10)
- Accessories:
- Sunglasses, hats, and an umbrella
- A neck pillow for the plane
- A versatile purse or fanny pack
- Claw clip
- Electronics:
- Sony camera, charger, and extra batteries
- Headphones and charger, Bluetooth adapter for airplane movies
- Phone cord and block, and a plug adapter
- Kindle and charger
- Watch charger
- AirTags for tracking your luggage
- Personal Items:
- Makeup and toiletries (including soap, face wash, and contacts)
- Vitamins and any necessary medications
- A reusable water bottle
- Plane snacks
- Pen
Packing for Your Baby: Staying Cozy and Dry
Traveling with a baby requires extra preparation. We prepared for some rain, but there was an unexpected atmospheric river while we were there, which meant extra rain, wind, and cold! We found our baby didn’t mind the rain too much but she hated the wind. Here’s what we packed for our nursing 5-month-old:
- Clothing:
- Baby Essentials:
- Diaper bag, diapers, and wipes
- Changing pad for all the unexpected diaper changes
- Sleep sacks (we packed two)
- Burp cloths and nursing scarf (if applicable)
- Bottles and a cooler bag for milk
- Pump and milk bags
- Travel Gear:
- Stroller and adapters for car seat, gate check bags for both
- Baby carrier
- Car seat (ours attaches to the stroller)
- Baby monitor (something that works without wifi!)
- Health and Comfort:
- Teething cream, thermometer, and Tylenol with Medi pacifier (just in case!)
- Bug repellent (midges were THICK in September)
- Pacifier
- Entertainment:
- Toys and books
- Mini Sound machine
- Bunny (or comfort item)
- Documents:
- Passport
- Sharpie, for labeling items
Tips for Surviving the Scottish Rain with a Baby:
- Layers are essential. Pack plenty of warm layers that can be easily added or removed. Make sure you have something that blocks the wind, our baby didn’t mind the rain but she cried when it was windy!
- Waterproof everything. Invest in quality waterproof stroller covers and your own clothing. I also bought a waterproofing spray to give an extra boost to all of my coats, with a special emphasis on the shoulders.
- Embrace the rain! Scotland’s landscapes are even more magical in the mist. Get out of the car and enjoy it.
- Pack extra socks and clothes. Babies get wet so easily, and a wet baby is an unhappy baby.
- Bring plenty of snacks and entertainment. Long drives and rainy days are best enjoyed with road trip snacks.
- Be prepared to stop often. Get used to getting baby in and out of the car. A car seat that you can easily pop onto the stroller is ideal! And when baby’s gotta eat–baby’s gotta eat.
- Baby carrier is your friend. It allows you to move around easily, and keep your baby warm and close.
Before You Go: The Essential Prep List
Before packing a single onesie, tackle these crucial pre-trip tasks:
- Tech Check:
- Charge all camera batteries and headphones.
- Clear memory cards and any digital devices.
- Charge and clean your pump (if applicable).
- Charge the baby monitor.
- Travel Documents and Essentials:
- Ensure passports are valid and don’t expire within 6 months of travel.
- Look into airport transportation.
- Acquire local currency or verify card usability.
- Home Prep:
- Water your plants.
- Leave detailed instructions for your house sitter.
Last but not least, our favorite travel luggage isn’t luggage at all–it’s backpacks! Here’s a link to our favorite size & style.
Scotland with a 5-month-old is an unforgettable adventure. With careful planning and the right packing list, you can create cherished memories that will last a lifetime, rain or shine!
Feel free to check out my full packing list (with links) here!
