Packing suitcase
Image Credit: Anete Lūsiņa

Edinburgh Packing Guide

Wondering what to bring on your visit to Edinburgh? We’ve got you covered with our handy packing guide. From what clothes to pack to the type of plug you should bring; learn about all the essentials you’ll need to enjoy the Scottish capital. 

Edinburgh Packing Essentials

1.

Comfortable Shoes

Edinburgh is a bustling but compact city that is best enjoyed on foot! Whether strolling along cobbled streets or climbing to the top of Arthurs Seat, wearing supportive and comfortable footwear is advised to keep your feet happy.  

2.

Reusable Water Bottle

Exploring Edinburgh can be thirsty work and, luckily, Scotland’s drinking water is renowned for its excellent quality all over the world. There are free water bottle refill points across the city, meaning you can easily top up your reusable water bottle while out and about. Use the Top Up Tap Map to find your nearest water bottle refill point while in Edinburgh. 

Image Credit: Tamara- Bellis
3.

Small day bag

Edinburgh is a city with a huge variety of activities to offer. From climbing an extinct volcano, to enjoying spectacular performances at one of the city’s many theatres, bringing a small bag out with you can mean you’re best prepared for whatever you may do during the day.  

4.

Plug adaptor

In the UK, power sockets are type G with a standard voltage of 230v and a frequency of 50 Hz. If you are bringing chargers, hairdryers and other electrical items from outside the UK on your visit, make sure to bring the correct plug adaptor. 

Arrived in the city without one? Adaptors are available to buy across the city in many supermarkets and tourist shops.

Image Credit: Sarah Brown
5.

Practical clothing

Even in the summer months, Edinburgh can experience multiple seasons in one day and can rain year-round. As such, it’s a good idea to pack lots of layers as well as a light raincoat in the summer months, and a thick jacket if you are visiting during winter.  

Image Credit: Audrey Matvee
6.

5G/4G sim

Edinburgh has good 5G and 4G coverage, so if you’d like to connect to access the internet while on the go in Edinburgh, make sure to bring a 5G or 4G compatible sim for your phone. While 3G networks are still in place across the UK, Edinburgh began phasing out 3G in early 2023 so don’t get caught out and check your network provider before setting off. 

Forgot to pack something?

Don’t worry! Edinburgh has a fantastic shopping scene, where you can find anything that you may need for your visit.

Guide to Shopping in Edinburgh
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