There’s something altogether unique about the tingling sensation we get upon embarking on a new journey, especially when that experience is taking us to LIVE in another country. Moving to Scotland is an exciting, sometimes stressful process. I’m eager to make it easier for you with this handy Moving to Scotland Packing List. As a half-bred Scottish lassie and one who has moved to and from Scotland on numerous occasions, I’ve got what you need to know before moving to Scotland, packing edition.
Prep for unpredictable Scottish weather
Oh, baby… The weather in Scotland cannot be trusted. It might say it’s going to rain all day and perhaps there’s a drizzle here and there or perhaps you’re surprised by the vibrant sunshine. Scotland is one of those unique places where you can seemingly experience every season in just one day. I’m serious here!
So, get ahead of the game by adding these items to your Scotland packing list.
- A quality rain jacket; I prefer Columbia when it comes to my outdoor gear, but the choice is yours. I’ve had my Columbia rain jacket for 10 years and it still looks brand new. It’s a pretty forest green and I love it for Scotland. Last year I also bought a white/cream colored one and it gives me a bit more of a “dressed up” vibe.
- Water resistant shoes; I’ll be honest, most people in Scotland don’t walk around in rainboots (aka wellies). You’ll mostly see people wearing regular shoes or cute water-resistant Chelsea boots, or a pair of Dr. Martens (this brand is a big deal in the UK).
- A wind-resistant umbrella; A windy and rainy day in Scotland is a horrendous combination. Mascara will be smearing down your face and you’ll be sticking your umbrella out like a shield. Be prepared with a durable, wind-resistant umbrella.
- Layers! As I said, Scotland’s weather can be unpredictable, so make sure layers are part of your moving to Scotland packing list. I’d say not to stress too much about this one because, well, shopping exists in Scotland and you can stock up on most of these items (wool scarves, shirts, skirts, tights, etc) once you’ve moved here.
- A wool hat; I love wearing a hat when I’m in Scotland. When there’s just a light drizzle, there’s no point in really using an umbrella, but a wool hat will easily do the trick. Choose a wide-brim wool hat to keep raindrops out of your face. I’m saying wool because it’s a natural material and water-resistant, but choose the material you prefer.
Consider your gadgets
You’ll definitely want to bring your tech when you’re moving to Scotland. However, there are some things to keep in mind. Let’s get into the details.
- Power adapter; You’ll definitely need a power adapter when moving to Scotland, especially in those first few months. If you’re moving to Scotland indefinitely, you might consider swapping all your products over to UK ones, but in the beginning, a power adapter is going to be your best friend.
Basically, the outlets in the UK are different from those in most of Europe and the USA, etc. If you have a lot of gadgets, you’ll want to have at least two power adapters to make it easier. You can choose UK-specific adapters or an international one if you also plan to take trips to Europe.
- Computer, camera, and all necessary charging cords
- Buy a blow dryer once you’re in Scotland. The voltages are going to be different and the best and safest thing you can do is just buy a blow dryer once you move to Scotland, that is if you even use one.
- Hair straighteners/curlers; If you’re only staying six months or an academic year, you’ll probably be fine to use your home-based straightener and curler, just remember to have the correct adapter.
- Unlocked mobile phone; You’re going to want to pop in a UK sim card, so make sure your phone is paid off and unlocked before moving to Scotland. Here’s a handy guide on using your phone in the UK.
Important documents to bring to Scotland
If you’re starting a new life in Scotland, then you’re definitely going to want to bring most of your important identity documents with you.
- Passport and visa; Need I say more?
- Copy of passport and visa; Ya know, just in case <3
- Travel medical insurance: If you’re moving to Scotland on a working holiday visa or student visa, you must get travel medical insurance. This will ensure you’re protected during your journey from your home country to Scotland, while in the country, and while traveling to other destinations around the world. It’s essential to have, especially now that the UK has left the EU. So, make sure you’re covered with quality insurance. I highly recommend Nomad Insurance from SafetyWing because it’s affordable, straightforward, and includes both medical emergencies and unforeseen travel mishaps like lost luggage and natural disasters.
- Medical history/copy of prescriptions you may need; If you’re moving to Scotland, you’ll soon be registered with the NHS and can schedule doctors appointments and get medicine through that, but up until you can prove your conditions, have a good supply of medicine on you and bring medical history documents in your suitcase.
- Recent glasses/contacts prescription; This is another one that you can easily do once you move to Scotland, as you’re entitled to one free eye appointment a year. You will have to pay for your contact prescription, but it is all quite affordable. There are also online websites to order contacts/glasses. You’ll just need to send in a current copy of your Rx.
Other relevant documents; If you’re moving to Scotland long-term, you’ll want to bring important documents. These could include a marriage certificate, birth certificate, tax documents, driver’s license, copy of transcripts if you’re hoping to study in Scotland, and a copy of your university diploma.
Note: By this one point, when packing to move to Scotland, you should already know what visa you need and what documents are required. In fact, this whole part of the moving process should be completed. If you need advice on moving to Scotland, read some of the various UK visa options.
Miscellaneous items you may want to bring
Are you particular about your face products or have a local product you don’t want to go without after you move to Scotland? Stock up on them. While you can find everything you need in Scotland, I understand you may be particular about certain things. Do some quick research to see if the product is already available in the UK, and if not consider bringing them until you can find a suitable replacement in your new home.
- Makeup products, face wash, favorite snacks, etc. Whatever you need to help you feel at home in your new home!
- Keep cup; Cut down on plastic waste while you’re traveling by having a keep cup/reusable mug with you. Plus, many coffee shops in Scotland give discounts if you bring your own cup. Though not technically a coffee cup (it’s actually for wine), my go-to is this Columbia insulated travel cup. It’s the perfect size for a cappuccino or flat white. If you like iced coffee, go with this one.
- Reusable water bottle; These are so handy in Scotland, especially as tap water is so fresh and delicious. Here’s a gorgeous one on Etsy.
- Eye mask, headphones, good book; All goodies to have before your flight over to Scotland!
Embrace the new life
I’ve known other Americans who had a hard time adjusting to moving to Scotland or Spain or wherever it may have been simply because they compared everything to “back home”. If you want to have a smooth transition to moving to Scotland, try to avoid making comparisons.
Try new cereal or snacks, embrace that yogurt might taste different and that you’re probably going to walk more than you did back home, and leave the negativity at the border. Packing for Scotland isn’t just physical. It’s mental, too.
Read my guide on 14 of the best things to do in Scotland and 50 differences between Scotland and the US to further get inspired.
Consider mailing a box or two
Firstly, know that you don’t have to overpack when moving to Scotland. However, if you’re moving to Scotland permanently/indefinitely, it’s probably worth it to ship some of your favorite, high-quality items (I’m talking about your American coffee maker if you’re set on it, high-quality bedding and pillows, etc.) Stick to boxing up quality items that would be expensive to buy once you’re in Scotland. I use MyBaggage to send/deliver my excess suitcases/boxes. It’s cheaper than adding another checked bag, so convenient, and will get picked up and delivered straight to your door. If you use my link, you can get $10 off. 🙂
With everything else, sell or donate old clothes you don’t wear and create a capsule wardrobe to get you started on your first months in Scotland. Do the same with towels, bedding, and decor you’re not dying to keep.
If you have a family member who can store extra stuff you’d like to keep, you can send them with friends/family when they visit or grab them on your next visit. You don’t have to get rid of everything all at once.
