November Packing List for Edinburgh — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Insulated, Waterproof Winter CoatEssential

  November is cold and damp with 15 days of rain and highs of only 48°F; a proper winter coat is your most essential item.

• Thermal Base LayersEssential

  Wear these under your clothes every day for crucial extra warmth when temperatures drop to a frigid 37°F.

• Heavyweight Wool or Fleece SweatersEssential

  You need serious insulation for November in Edinburgh. Pack your warmest sweaters for layering over your thermals.

• Waterproof, Insulated BootsEssential

  Your feet will freeze in anything less. These are essential for keeping warm and dry during the 15 days of November precipitation.

• Winter Hat, Scarf, and GlovesEssential

  This trio is non-negotiable. The damp 37°F cold and wind will feel brutal without them, especially at exposed sites like Edinburgh Castle.

• Thick, Thermal SocksEssential

  Pack multiple pairs of the warmest socks you own. They are key to staying comfortable while sightseeing.

• Portable Power BankEssential

  The cold drains batteries very quickly. A power bank ensures your phone is always ready for navigation and photos.

Clothing

• Insulated, Waterproof Winter CoatEssential

  November is cold and damp with 15 days of rain and highs of only 48°F; a proper winter coat is your most essential item.

• Thermal Base LayersEssential

  Wear these under your clothes every day for crucial extra warmth when temperatures drop to a frigid 37°F.

• Heavyweight Wool or Fleece SweatersEssential

  You need serious insulation for November in Edinburgh. Pack your warmest sweaters for layering over your thermals.

• Fleece-lined or Heavy TrousersRecommended

  These will keep your legs much warmer than jeans during a cold and windy walk along the Firth of Forth in Leith.

• Warm PyjamasRecommended

  Nights are long and cold, and you'll appreciate warm sleepwear in some of Edinburgh's older, draftier buildings.

Footwear

• Waterproof, Insulated BootsEssential

  Your feet will freeze in anything less. These are essential for keeping warm and dry during the 15 days of November precipitation.

• Water-resistant Walking ShoesOptional

  Only suitable for a short walk on a rare, dry day. Boots should be your primary choice for exploring the city.

• Smart Leather BootsRecommended

  A warm, lined pair is a good choice for an evening out, offering a balance of style and protection from the 37°F chill.

• Comfortable SlippersOptional

  A must-have for your hotel room to warm your feet after they've been on the cold Edinburgh streets all day.

Accessories

• Winter Hat, Scarf, and GlovesEssential

  This trio is non-negotiable. The damp 37°F cold and wind will feel brutal without them, especially at exposed sites like Edinburgh Castle.

• Thick, Thermal SocksEssential

  Pack multiple pairs of the warmest socks you own. They are key to staying comfortable while sightseeing.

• Water-resistant Day BagRecommended

  A backpack or cross-body bag that can withstand a shower is necessary for protecting your belongings.

• Hand WarmersOptional

  A small luxury that can make a huge difference to your comfort levels on a particularly cold day.

Gear

• High-Wind UmbrellaRecommended

  A sturdy umbrella is crucial to combat the 15 days of rain, but it must be built to withstand strong November gusts.

• Portable Power BankEssential

  The cold drains batteries very quickly. A power bank ensures your phone is always ready for navigation and photos.

• Moisturizer and Lip BalmRecommended

  The combination of cold wind and indoor heating can be very drying for your skin.

• Headlamp or Small TorchOptional

  It gets dark very early (around 4 PM), so a small light can be useful for navigating poorly lit closes or finding things in your bag.