7 things to know before Going on a road trip to Scotland
Should I bring cash to Scotland?
Pounding Sterling: $50 = £39.22 (time of writing guide 2024)
I always bring cash for every country because you never know. What if your cards lock or get stolen? There was never a situation where I couldn’t use my card, but I was happy I still brought some cash.
How much will I spend on a trip to Scotland?
The biggest expenses on my trip to Scotland was the rental car and gas. My best friend and I got dinged for being young drivers, which was unfortunate, but c’est la vie. It helped tremendously that we stayed with family friends for two out of the seven nights we were there.
Average Daily Cost Per Person: low end $77 | high end $197
How much I spent for 7 days: $619
Should I get a travel credit card?
I recommend applying for a 0% APR travel credit card. I have two, one from Capital One and the other from Bank of America. I have had no issues with them and no yearly fee! I even used my points from my Capital One to pay for a portion of my flight to Iceland!
What airport should I fly to?
I recommend flying into Edinburgh Airport or training, depending on where you are coming from.
Pro tip: Download the extension Travel Arrow to compare Google Flights with Skyscanner and other third-party sites, then book directly with that airline.
Do I need a Visa to visit Scotland?
U.S. citizens may enter the United Kingdom for up to 6 months without a visa. GOV.UK
Where should I rent my car?
Website: Auto Europe
Car Insurance: I did not get car insurance because my Bank of America CC covered me. If you’re uncomfortable with that, I recommend purchasing insurance.
Pro tip: Check prices a few days to a week before leaving and see if they have dropped. I originally paid $335.05 when I rented a car in Iceland and rebooked 1.5 weeks before leaving for $174.35. Score! I was proud of that one. You can do this with accommodations as well!
What should I know about Driving in Scotland?
⚪️ Left side of the road (remember wide rights and tight lefts and – as the driver, you want to hug the middle)
⚪️ Gas is going to be expensive as fuck $80-$100
⚪️ You might accidentally hit your wipers when going for the blinker. Don’t be flustered. It’s okay.
⚪️ Make sure you look both ways!! Ally pulled out in front of a cop, and we almost got a ticket. lol
⚪️ Be prepared to pay for parking nearly everywhere.
additional Resources
I want you to feel completely prepared when adventuring to Iceland and any other trip you think of taking.
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