Everyone with a true wild at heart dreams about going camping in the great outdoors. You can’t beat the feeling of independence you get from spending the night in the wide outdoors, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. There are few nations as wild and beautiful than Scotland.
Scotland, the “home of the brave and the land of the free,” is a fantastic travel destination. This is due in large part to the abundant undeveloped environment that surrounds the region’s lively and welcoming urban centres. Large, open spaces, rugged mountains, icy lakes, and beaches that might compete with those in the Caribbean (if the weather cooperated, of course) make this a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
It is said that the Highlands Wild Camp in Scotland are among the least inhabited regions of Europe, therefore it is possible to wander for days without seeing another human being. Scotland is a great area to go camping if you’re ready for the, uh, variable weather, but be sure to have a sturdy tent.
We realise that wild camping might seem like a bit of a frightening proposition, particularly for first-timers or those of us who prefer the five-star life, which is why we’ve prepared this guide to wild camping in Scotland. Having this information at your disposal will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
For starters, what exactly is “Wild Camping”?
Yes, that’s what it is; camping in the great outdoors! Scotland’s “freedom to wander” ensures that citizens have access to a variety of public and private spaces for the purpose of relaxation and exercise, something that is frowned upon or even outlawed in many Western nations. This implies, with a few exceptions we’ll get into later, that you may set up camp anyplace outside for no cost at all…
That is so awesome it’s ridiculous.
The Nordic nations of Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden, as well as the Baltic countries of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, have had this right written into their constitutions for centuries, although Scotland did not entrench it in law until 2003.
It’s better to be late than never, right?
After a day of adventuring in deserted castles or on the Isle of Skye, we guarantee you’ll be grateful to us as you watch the sun go down over the rolling hills while sipping whiskey by the campfire. We won’t even begin to describe the beauty of the remote Scottish locations where films like Skyfall and many others were shot (and yes, we did spend the night in our tents there).
The Origins of the Wild Camping Craze in Scotland
OK, so there could be those of you reading this thinking’ wait, am I right about what wild camping is?’ What you’re imagining is exactly what it sounds like: camping in the great outdoors, far from any civilization or established campground. Free, flexible, distinctive – it may seem like this isn’t conceivable (and in most of Western nations it isn’t), but it’s absolutely an accommodation choice in Scotland.
If you’re going to question it, explain why. It’s a direct line to the American people, to put it that way. The opinion to pitch a tent in the midst of all that unpopulated country is a luxury, since there are many rural spots in Scotland that may be difficult to see if you’re using more conventional accommodation.
Also, you’ll experience the rush of excitement that can’t be had any other way. Envision yourself walking out of your bed into the foggy morning, feeling the dew on the grass under your feet, and looking out at the vast landscape of hills and valleys, loch waters, or a sandy beach that stretches out before you.
In contrast to the rest of the United Kingdom, wild camping is often accepted in Scotland. The public enjoys the “freedom to wander,” or the legal right to visit public property for recreational or exercise reasons, according to the Land Reform (Scotland) Act of 2003. We tent campers consider any open area suitable for setting up camp.
However, there are restrictions that must be taken into account. Overcrowding has prompted the establishment of by-laws prohibiting or limiting wild Wild Camp in Scotland camping in popular destinations like Loch Lomond and the Trossachs; it is recommended that you research them beforehand to avoid any unpleasant surprises. St. Andrews, a populated region, is likewise out of the question. But except from that…
The Proper Way to Go Wild Camping in Scotland
To enjoy wild camping in Scotland is a privilege that comes with obvious responsibility to protect the local ecosystem and terrain. These may be summed up in the phrase “leave no trace,” however reading the whole Scottish Outdoor Access Code is recommended before venturing out.
In such case, what are the most important considerations?
It’s important to avoid any sites that seem to be too busy, since the entire goal of wild camping is to get away from it all. It’s human nature to seek shelter in close proximity to others for safety, yet a concentration of people may have a detrimental effect on the surroundings (and perhaps ruin someone else’s mood).
Keeping the environment in mind, please do not litter. We’d like to think this is obvious, but a reminder never hurts. It would be awful to visit a beautiful glen with a babbling brook only to discover discarded crisp packs and cigarette butts. Yes, it’s horrible, right? Don’t join that group.
In the same vein, do not flush any food waste down the toilet. You’ll either need to dig a hole, ditch the toilet paper, or resort to a portable container.
You should hide as much as possible, too. Don’t set up camp in populated areas or along major thoroughfares; arrive late and go early; avoid fields with crops or animals (though we can’t imagine why anybody would want to do this).
If you’rent sure if a piece of land is public or private, just ask. It’s possible that you’ll get guidance that will lead you in a more advantageous direction.
We know we just told you about campfires, but please don’t build one. It will not only make a visual impact, but also pose a threat to public safety. Use a disposable grill or camping oven (which you will then take with you to dispose of) to toast your marshmallows.
Although this might seem like a big list of regulations, they are all common sense and rather simple to implement, and will in no way detract from your time spent wild camping.
Planning Your Trip To Scotland
Scotland’s accessibility through air travel is unparalleled. In the last decade, Edinburgh Airport has surpassed Glasgow Airport in terms of passenger traffic. Many international hubs provide direct flights to Edinburgh and Glasgow. Some other cities in Scotland have airports include Inverness, Aberdeen, and Dundee, albeit these airports are often only utilised for shorter flights inside the country.
Alternatively, if you want to travel across the United Kingdom, you may rely on the great rail services available throughout the union. It takes less than four hours to travel by rail from London to Edinburgh, and direct trains go all the way to Aberdeen in the far north of Scotland.
If you are between the ages of 16 and 30 and expect to use the train often while in the United Kingdom, you might consider getting a Young Person’s Railcard. Considering it saves you approximately £13, or $40, on train tickets, it’s a no-brainer to get one.
As an additional option, you might purchase a BritRail Spirit of Scotland Pass…
It’s easy to get about Scotland once you get there. The train and bus systems are excellent, and they will take you to most major cities. It doesn’t take long for anything (it’s not a huge nation, after all!) and the costs are low, particularly if you plan ahead.
If, on the other hand, wild camping is your primary reason for doing this trip, then hiring a vehicle (if you are over 21) is your best bet. This allows you a lot more leeway to go anywhere you want, whenever you like, and finally see all those far-flung destinations you’ve been dying to see and tell your friends about.
You can get off anywhere you want, whenever you like, and not have to bother about tickets or schedules. Definitely an exciting new experience!
Camping Advice for Scotland’s Wilds
Here are some more suggestions to help you make the most of your wonderful time spent wild camping in Scotland:
Don’t overpack; just think ahead. If you’re planning on combining wild camping with a trek, remember that you’ll need to carry everything you bring with you, so pack carefully. While a good book to read is always welcome, do you really need six? We’re all fans of steaming bowls of soup, but those tins are a real burden to carry about.
Energy bars, dried fruit and nuts, and sweets like chocolate are worth their weight in gold. These are essential for a successful travel since they are simple to pack, need no special preparation, and are delicious and energising at the same time.
Invest adequately in your shelter. A’more expensive’ tent is still likely to be less expensive than two weeks of hotel lodging, especially considering how easily inexpensive tents may be destroyed. Trust us, cracks in the ceiling are the last thing you need.
Check the forecast often. Just as in wild New Zealand, the weather in beautiful Scotland may turn on a dime, so it’s best to be prepared for everything. For instance, if rain is predicted for the night, you shouldn’t set up camp near any bodies of water; a heavy rainstorm may turn a quaint brook into a raging river. In a similar vein, a windy valley may be bad for your tent!
Put together some kind of plan, but don’t overthink it. You should take precautions to ensure you won’t be stranded without a place to sleep one night, but the thrill of wild camping is in its freedom and its unexpected discoveries. There are great recommendations for what to look for in a campground, but if you have a compelling reason to deviate, go for it!
Unplanned, spontaneous interactions are the ones that end up being the most memorable. Those when you and your friends or significant other find a remote spot in the woods or beside a small loch, set up camp, and spend the night staring up at the sky while quietly discussing the meaning of life.
Follow common sense precautions and have fun.
What do I need for wild camping in Scotland?
A large backpack that is comfortable to carry and big enough for all your camping equipment.
A lightweight tent that is easy to pitch.
A sleeping system = a warm sleeping bag and a sleeping pad.