West Highland Way Packing List: Essential Gear for a Comfortable Trek 

The West Highland Way, Scotland's iconic 96-mile-long hiking trail, is a bucket-list adventure for hikers worldwide. From stunning lochs to rugged Munros (Scottish mountains over 3,000 ft), the trail offers diverse landscapes and a chance to escape into nature. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or taking your first leap into long-distance walking, packing the right gear is the key to a comfortable, safe, and truly enjoyable trek. 

This guide takes you through everything you need to pack for the West Highland Way—including tips to pack light, gear recommendations, and must-have essentials. Let's make sure you're ready for whatever the Scottish weather decides to throw your way! 

Essential Hiking Gear for the West Highland Way 

Before lacing up your boots, you'll need to ensure your gear is up to the challenge. Here are three key items every hiker needs. 

1. The Right Backpack 

Your backpack is your lifeline for the trail, holding all of the essentials you'll need each day. Choose a day pack with: 

• Capacity: Around 30 liters is ideal to carry food, water, spare clothes, and small essentials. 
• Support: Padded waist straps and adjustable chest straps to help distribute weight evenly. 
• Weatherproof Features: Look for a built-in rain cover or pack a waterproof liner to keep your gear dry. 

With a Macs self-guided hiking trip, luggage transfers will take care of your larger suitcase, so you only need to carry a manageable day pack while hiking. 

2. Sturdy Hiking Boots 

A good pair of hiking boots can make or break your adventure. For the West Highland Way: 

• Waterproofing is key: Scotland's notorious weather can mean rain and muddy trails. 
• Ankle support is a must: Hiking boots (rather than shoes) offer better protection on uneven ground.  
• Break them in: Don’t make the rookie mistake of wearing new boots for the first time on the trail.

3. Hiking Socks 

Pair your quality hiking boots with moisture-wicking, comfortable socks or sock liners. Merino wool socks are a fantastic option as they keep your feet warm, dry, and blister-free. Pack at least three pairs and consider bringing blister patches or moleskins, just in case. 

Clothing Essentials for Every Climate 

The West Highland Way is famous for its "four seasons in one day." Packing layered, versatile clothing is vital to stay comfortable no matter the weather. 

Base Layers 

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer made of synthetic or Merino wool material. Cotton should be avoided as it traps sweat and takes longer to dry. 

Insulating Mid-Layers 

Pack a warm fleece or a lightweight down jacket to provide insulation. A compact vest or puffer can also work well for chilly mornings or evening stops. 

Waterproof Outer Layers 

Invest in a high-quality waterproof and windproof jacket and pants. The Scottish weather is unpredictable, so these will be your best friends when the rain rolls in. 

Extras 

Don’t forget: 

• A warm hat (or beanie) and gloves for colder days. 
• A wide-brimmed hat or cap for sunny spells. 
• Comfortable evening outfits and shoes for your downtime at inns or guesthouses. 

Navigation and Safety 

Even though the West Highland Way is well-marked, you'll need to be prepared for unexpected challenges. 

Mac’s Adventure App or GPS 

Your self-guided trip will include maps. Having a GPS device or smartphone with the award-winning Macs Adventure app ensures you always have access to route details, even offline. Ensure your device is fully charged and carry a portable power bank/phone charger. 

First-Aid Kit 

Include essentials like band aids, painkillers, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and any prescribed medication. Add blister treatment supplies for extra peace of mind. 

Headlamp or Flashlight 

Even if you're not planning on hiking in the dark, a lightweight headlamp or flashlight can be a lifesaver when navigating the trail in the early morning or during emergencies. 

Items for Your Accommodations 

Accommodation on the West Highland Way includes cozy, locally run inns or B&Bs, carefully selected and pre-arranged by Macs Adventure with luggage transfers included. Here’s how to pack accordingly: 

• Nightwear and toiletries: Simplify your packing with travel-sized toiletries and a set of lightweight pajamas. Most accommodations outside of North America don’t provide washcloths, so it’s best to bring your own and a zip lock bag to store in if it’s still wet on a travel day. 
• Casual clothes: Include evening outfits that are comfortable yet compact. 
• Slippers or light shoes: Give your hiking boots a break in the evenings. 

Stay Energized and Protected 

Don’t underestimate the importance of staying hydrated, well-fed, and protected from the elements. 

Water Bottle or Hydration System 

Pack a refillable water bottle, a hydration reservoir, and some electrolyte sachets to stay hydrated and maintain energy levels. A filtration bottle, like Water-to-Go, ensures you can safely refill from natural water sources along the route. 

Snacks 

Fuel your hike with high-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, or jerky. For a local twist, pack traditional Scottish treats like shortbread and tablet (a Scottish candy). 

For the best trail snacks, check out our hiking nutrition guide. 

Sunscreen & Sunglasses 

Yes, even in Scotland, sun protection is a necessity. Protect your skin from UV rays and your eyes from unexpected glares on sunny days. 

Midge Repellent 

If you're hiking in summer, a midge net and repellent are non-negotiable. These tiny insects can be a nuisance, so don’t underestimate their power. Check out our ultimate midges guide to stay prepared and avoid getting caught off guard! 

Optional Items to Elevate Your Experience 

While not essential, these optional extras can add comfort and enjoyment to your hike: 

• Trekking Poles: Reduce pressure on your knees during steep ascents and descents. Discover more benefits of hiking poles. 
• Camera or Smartphone: Capture the spectacular scenery. 
• Binoculars: Perfect for spotting wildlife or admiring distant views. 
• Notebook & Pen: Jot down memories or sketches of the beautiful landscapes. 

Tips for Packing Light 

Weight matters, even if you’ve got luggage transfers! Be sure to check your trip info for luggage weight limits. These are set by the luggage transfer companies and may differ from your airline's. Here’s how to keep your pack manageable: 

• Stick to the essentials. Don’t overpack and choose multipurpose items when possible.  
• Roll clothing tightly to save space.  
• Use packing cubes to keep your items organized and maximize suitcase space. 
• Leave extras in your overnight bag. Carry only daily essentials in your day pack. 

Your pack should feel balanced and easy to carry throughout the day. Remember, Macs Adventure’s luggage transfer service has a weight limit (usually approx. 20kg/44lbs per bag), so pack wisely. Exceeding the weight limit may result in fines, so it's important to stay within the limit. 

Prepare for the Adventure of a Lifetime 

Completing the West Highland Way is about more than just hiking - it’s about experiencing the dramatic Scottish Highlands and connecting with history, culture, and nature in a truly unique way. With the right preparation and packing, you’ll enjoy every step of the way, rain or shine. 

Still unsure what to pack, or want the ease of having your logistics handled by experts? Macs Adventure provides comprehensive self-guided hiking tours with pre-arranged accommodations, luggage transfers, and detailed route guidance. Start planning your stress-free West Highland Way adventure today!