Shetland What to Pack

  ...or bright sunshine.....
by leics
 
  • ...or bright sunshine.....
      ...or bright sunshine.....
    by leics
  • ...or pouring with rain in a high wind.
      ...or pouring with rain in a high wind.
    by leics
  • Open moorland in Northmavine
      Open moorland in Northmavine
    by leics
  • Could be foggy.....
      Could be foggy.....
    by leics
  • Eshaness
      Eshaness
    by leics
 

Reviews from VirtualTourist Members

Packing for walking

by leics

Pack waterproof overtrousers if you intend to walk and explore; nothing is worse than soaking wet trousers except.......soaking wet feet! So you *do* need sensible walking boots/shoes (the ground can be rough) which won't let in the water. Take more pairs of socks than you usually do, just in case your boots leak. Don't underestimate the risks. Whilst Shetland high ground is not especially high, its weather conditions can be as challenging at the Cairngorms, with rabbitholes, rocks and boggy ground ready to break your ankles. If you plan to walk in the wilder parts (such as Northmavine) make sure you have the right emergency gear (food, whistle, spaceblanket, first aid kit, phone..although it may not work) and know how to use a map and compass. I've experienced mist in this area firsthand; without map and compass you will be really stuck. And do make absolutely sure you tell someone...

Tip Photo
Layers!!!

by leics

If you fly in do check Loganair's cabin baggage limits. Their planes are smaller so their size allowance is smaller too. Absolutely do *not* pack assuming the weather will be good, even if you come in summer. UK weather is changeable and Shetland's weather even more so...and it's very far north. So pack clothes you can layer, adding and taking off as the weather varies during the day. Pack *good* waterproofs which are windproof as well. Even in summer padded waterproofs are a good idea.Take hat, scarf and gloves whatever time of year you visit: better to have them than be cold. Hats are anyway essential if you visit the bird colonies by boat (poo on the head!) or walk where bonxies, skuas or fulmars nest (their attacks rarely actually touch you, but they can do so).And take your sunglasses too......when the sun *does* shine it can be very bright indeed, because the air is so clear and...

Tip Photo
Windy and Unstable Ground

by supercarys

A lot of the walks in the area are on marshy ground and there is often quite a biting wind blowing so take a windproof jacket, maybe a beanie to keep your ears warm and good sturdy walking shoes so you don't slip.

Coping with the weather

by TomFoolery

I'd recommend a decent waterproof jacket and trousers. Even in summer it can rain for hours on end.

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The Place

Reviews and photos of Shetland attractions posted by real travelers and locals. The best tips for Shetland sightseeing.

Experience Shetland
What to Pack: Cities in Shetland
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Questions and Answers

vidyalr profile photo

Q:  Hi All I am traveling to UK and Scotland in Sept this year with my 3 year old and was wondering if it would be a good idea to... 

KakapoTheParrot profile photo

A: The seabirds that nest on Shetland will be long gone by that stage, which is a shame because particularly on Fetlar the Great Skuas are amazing (and pretty intimidating)... 

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