Essential Tips for a Scotland Road Trip

Scotland, with its rugged landscapes and stunning beauty, is an ideal country for a road trip. Its dramatic coastlines, serene lochs, and rolling hills make it a perfect destination for exploration. You’ll encounter historic castles, iconic distilleries, and picturesque islands along the way.

Here are 10 tips for a road trip in Scotland to make your journey more enjoyable, safer, and fun:

1. Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential. It might seem like an added expense, but it’s invaluable if something goes wrong. Scotland has many narrow, rugged, or single-track roads that can be tricky to navigate, and tire and windshield damage are common. Comprehensive car insurance is recommended for peace of mind.

2. Rent the Vehicle which is right for you

Your choice of vehicle will greatly impact your trip. A car is cheaper and uses less fuel, but requires finding accommodation each night. A campervan offers the convenience of sleeping inside the vehicle but costs more in fuel and rental fees. Both options offer unique experiences. Remember, manual transmissions are common in Scotland, so specify if you need an automatic.

3. Drive on the Left

In Scotland, traffic flows on the left side of the road, which is opposite to the US, Canada, and most of Europe. Driving on the left, especially with a manual vehicle, can take some getting used to. Drive cautiously and take it slow at first until you adjust.

4. Understand Roundabouts

Roundabouts are common in Scotland and function as intersections without stop lights. They reduce serious traffic accidents significantly. Traffic flows clockwise in Scottish roundabouts. Slow down, yield to traffic already in the roundabout, and signal when exiting.

5. Know the Speed Limits

Speed limits in Scotland are always in miles per hour. Common limits are 30 MPH in built-up areas, 60 MPH on single roadways, and 70 MPH on dual roadways and highways. Always follow local signage to ensure safety.

6. Scenic Stops

Plan for extra time in your itinerary for spontaneous stops. Scotland’s landscape is full of picturesque views, quaint towns, and historic sites. Allowing buffer time lets you explore and enjoy unexpected sights.

7. Download the Right Apps

Helpful apps for your road trip include Met Weather for UK weather updates, Google Maps for navigation (download maps for offline use), Park4Night for RV parking spots, Flush for locating public restrooms, and Petrol Prices for comparing gas prices.

8. Bring a Paper Map

While mobile data is generally reliable in Scotland, it’s wise to bring a paper map in case of emergencies or signal loss.

9. Understand How to Drive on Single-Track Roads

Single-track roads in the countryside require caution. Use passing areas to let oncoming traffic pass, take it slow around corners, and be prepared to stop. Make sure you have a spare tire and insurance coverage for tires.

10. Be Careful

Scotland has a lot to offer, but rushing can detract from the experience. Focus on quality over quantity. Drive less and spend more time at each stop to fully enjoy the scenery and culture. Take it slow and savor the journey.