Anyone traveling to Scotland will now require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This is approximately $12. Ensure to complete the application no later than 3 days prior to travel.

Apply for an ETA to come to the UK

June is a summer month in Scotland, so you can usually expect some of the warmest temperatures of the year. On average, there are highs of 61°F (16°C) and lows of 46°F (8°C). To put things into perspective: If Edinburgh would be in North America, it would be over 900 miles north of Chicago, approximately at the shores of Hudson Bay.

For effortless communication for calling and texting, download the app "WhatsApp". If we need to communicate anything out while we are there, this is how we will plan to get ahold of you.

Prior to travel, check with your phone network what international phone plans they have to offer. For example, Verizon will charge $10 per day when cellular is turned on.

eSIM

Newer phones don’t require a physical SIM card anymore and can handle a digital eSIM. For a prepaid phone plan to have internet on the way, check out:

The 5 best eSIMs for trips to Scotland 2025

Local SIM Providers

If you need a physical SIM, you can get a prepaid phone line at the big four (EE, O2, Three and Vodafone), called “Pay as you go”. For example, an 8GB line at O2 is currently purchasable for ~$12.

Scotland uses the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Ensure that you are aware of the currency exchange rates of your banks and credit card providers. Most establishments in Scotland accept major credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, etc.). It's advisable to inform your bank or credit card provider about your travel plans to avoid any issues with transactions. Some card terminals offer you the choice to pay in GBP or USD. It’s usually cheaper to pay in the local currency as the exchange rate of your bank is usually much better than the one the terminal offers.

Cash Payments: While card payments are widely accepted, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit places that do not accept cards. ATMs might offer you the choice to charge in GBP or USD. It’s usually cheaper to pay in the local currency as the exchange rate of your bank is usually much better than the one the ATM offers.

Contactless Payments: Contactless payment options are popular in Scotland. Many people use mobile payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay.

Tipping: Scotland is a “pay a living wage” country and tips are generally not expected, and some establishments might even deny it. However, we usually round up to a few pounds. Keep in mind that waiting staff will not come back with a slip for you to add a tip. Simply state before paying to round up a bill of e.g. 22.46 to 25.

In Scotland, there are different plugs compared to the US and central Europe. Ensure to bring a necessary adapter. Be aware of the voltage your current electronics have and if they will convert or not. High voltage items like hair blow dryers or irons will usually not convert and might blow when fed with a higher voltage.

Adapters for Scotland on Amazon