Wild Camping & Hiking in Scotland

Scotland’s outdoor access laws are among the most liberal in Europe. You can walk, camp, and launch on most land and inland water where access rights apply—provided it’s done responsibly. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code boils down to three simple ideas:

The Code in Three: Respect other people • Care for the environment • Take responsibility for your actions.

Essential Rules (Read Before You Pitch)

  • Where not to camp: Avoid enclosed fields (crops or livestock), near homes/buildings, and public car parks. Look for discreet, durable ground.
  • Group size & noise: Keep groups small and low-key. Give space to residents, land managers, and other campers.
  • Fires: Prefer a stove. If you must light a small fire, use mineral soil or existing fire sites, never damage live wood, and remove all trace.
  • Toilet waste: Go at least 30 metres from lochs, rivers, and streams. Bury faeces in a small cathole (15–20cm deep), cover carefully, and pack out paper where possible.
  • Litter & food scraps: Take all rubbish home with you. That means everything you bring in — bottles, wrappers, tissues, and even food waste like fruit peels or crumbs. Food attracts wildlife and livestock—leave no trace you were there.

Pack Smart (What Actually Helps)

Navigation & Safety

  • Paper map + compass (and the skills to use them)
  • Head torch with spare batteries
  • Whistle and watch (alarm for start/turn-back times)
  • Fully charged phone + power bank

Shelter & Weather

  • Tent/bivy suited to Scottish wind and rain
  • Sleeping bag + insulating mat
  • Waterproofs, warm layers, hat & gloves (year-round)
  • Rucksack liner or dry bags; rain cover if you use one

Food, Water & Fuel

  • Enough water to the next reliable source
  • High-energy snacks (nuts, dried fruit, bars, chocolate)
  • Stove + fuel (prefer over open fires)
  • Waste bags for all rubbish (and food scraps)

First Aid & Nuisances

  • Plasters, blister care, sterile dressings, bandage, tape
  • Pain relief and antihistamines
  • Tweezers / tick remover
  • Midge repellent or head net (summer), sunscreen

Waste & Water: The Quick Version

No facilities? Carry a small trowel. Step 70–100 feet (30m) from water, paths, and shelters; dig 15–20cm deep, 10–15cm wide; do your business; backfill and disguise. Pack out paper where possible. Strain and scatter greywater well away from streams.

Good Hill Sense: Weather turns fast in the Highlands. Tell someone your plan, set a turnaround time, and be ready to bail. Your world, your pace—just not at the weather’s expense.

Before You Go

  • Check the forecast and daylight hours.
  • Have a clear route, escape options, and a cutoff time.
  • Carry a map even if you’re using an app.
  • Leave your pitch early; leave it trace-free.