Edinburgh in Winter: What to Pack & How to Stay Warm Without Losing Style 🧤

Planning a trip to Edinburgh this winter? You’re going to need layers, boots, and a bit of tactical outfit planning. Because while this city is absolutely magical in December (think fairy lights, castle backdrops, and cosy cafés), it also brings the kind of cold that sneaks into your bones if you’re not dressed for it.

So here’s everything you need to know about what to pack for Edinburgh in winter – with tips on staying warm and looking like you didn’t just roll out of a ski chalet.

I’m Hazel, a British travel writer who’s spent many a chilly afternoon hopping puddles on the Royal Mile and trying to keep my fringe from freezing. Here’s your stylish Edinburgh survival guide.

Start with a Proper Coat 🧥

You’ll want something windproof, warm, and ideally longer in length than a short jacket. Edinburgh gets properly blustery, so a lightweight puffer jacket often won’t cut it.

Go for a wool coat with a thermal lining, or a parka with a hood and insulation.

If you want a reference point, this is the kind of hooded, waterproof winter coat that works well for Edinburgh’s wind-and-rain combo.

Stick with dark colours – between the rain and old stone buildings, white or cream will betray you by day two.

Boots That Can Handle Cobbles 👢

Leave the heels at home. You need boots that are warm, waterproof, and have decent grip – bonus points for fleece lining.

Ankle boots with chunky soles are your best friend, or stylish walking boots that can survive the cobbles, steps, and occasional ice patch.

Look for something like waterproof ankle boots with good grip, rather than fashion boots made for dry pavements only.

And yes, thermal socks are a vibe. Pack several pairs.

Layers Are Your Secret Weapon 🧣

Scottish winter weather is chaotic – it might be calm and bright one moment, then horizontal sleet the next.

The trick is layers: thermal long-sleeve tops, lightweight knitwear, and a thin thermal base layer that does the hard work without ruining your outfit.

Layering properly gives you flexibility when the weather turns mid-walk.

Scarves: The Real Star of Edinburgh Winter 🧣

If there’s one winter accessory Edinburgh does exceptionally well, it’s the scarf. You’ll see locals wrapped in oversized knits and chunky wool scarves in checks, plaids, and deep winter colours.

In fact, the scarf often is the outfit. Neutral coat, great boots, then a bold or beautifully textured scarf (like this) to pull everything together. Go big enough to wrap comfortably around your neck, pull up over your face when the wind turns feral, or drape dramatically for café stops.

A good scarf does double duty here – warmth first, style second – and Edinburgh fully embraces that.

Hats: Warm Beats Cute Every Time 🧢

Don’t underestimate a proper winter hat. A woolly beanie with an insulated or fleece lining will keep you far warmer than anything thin or decorative, especially once the wind picks up.

If you’re choosing between “cute” and “actually warm”, pick warm. You’ll still look great, and you won’t be quietly resenting the weather by lunchtime.

If you’re building from scratch, here is a chunky winter scarf and fleece-lined beanie set to show the sort of warmth and texture that work well here.

Gloves You Can Use Your Phone With 🧤

Because the Christmas market won’t wait while you fumble.

Go for touchscreen gloves with a cosy fleece lining – something like this pair makes navigating maps, photos, and mulled wine far less annoying.

Mittens are cute, but not the most practical when you need your phone on the go.

A Crossbody Bag (Not a Backpack) 🎒

When you’re layering up, you want something easy to sling over your coat. A crossbody bag keeps your hands free for snacks and warm drinks – and in Edinburgh, that often means a stop for hot chocolate in one of the city’s cosiest cafés.

Bonus: it sits snugly under your coat, keeps your hands free, and won’t swing into puddles or strangers on crowded pavements.

Also pack a lightweight foldaway tote for spontaneous market purchases or souvenirs.

A small crossbody bag with a zip closure is easiest when you’re bundled up in layers.

Don’t Forget the Rain Layer ☔

Even if it’s not cold, it still rains – welcome to Scotland!

If your main coat isn’t waterproof, bring a compact umbrella or pack a lightweight rain shell to layer over the top. Some days you’ll want both, but if you’re choosing just one, a good hood usually wins.

Beauty Bits for Cold Weather 💄

Wind and heating = dry skin. Pack:

🧴 A rich moisturiser or facial oil.
💋 Lip balm (bring two – in case you lose one!)
🌬️ Hair ties or clips for windy days.
👀 Waterproof mascara if you plan to cry at a Christmas concert (or just walk into the wind)

Optional But Handy Extras 🧳

🎧 Noise-cancelling headphones for cafés or trains.
📚 A paperback for pub reading (see my travel book lists for inspiration).
🔌 UK plug adaptor if you’re visiting from abroad.
🔦 Phone torch (or just use your phone) for evening strolls.

Final Thoughts on What to Pack for Edinburgh in Winter ❄️

Edinburgh in winter is a total mood – dramatic skies, glittering streets, and endless cosy corners. If you pack smart (and warm), you’ll get the best of both worlds: that festive magic and all your fingers intact.

So wrap up, get out there, and let the wind blow your cobwebs away.

FAQs About Packing for Winter in Edinburgh💡

Still got questions? These are the most common things people ask about packing for winter in Edinburgh.

How cold does it get in Edinburgh in winter?

Temperatures usually hover between 1°C and 7°C (33-45°F), but the wind makes it feel colder.

Can I get away with trainers/sneakers?

Only if they’re waterproof and have good grip. Otherwise, go for boots.

Is snow common in Edinburgh?

Not really – but you might get a dusting. More often, it’s frosty mornings and wet afternoons.

Do I need thermal underwear?

Thermal tops are very handy. Thermal leggings – only if you plan to do longer walks or hill climbs.

What should I wear to the Christmas market?

Warm coat, comfy boots, gloves, and a scarf. And leave your huge handbag at home.

Related Reading You’ll Love 🎄

🎄London vs Edinburgh at Christmas: Which Is Better?
☕ Top 8 Cosy Places for the Best Hot Chocolate in Edinburgh.
🧣 5 Magical Festive Walks Around Edinburgh.
🎡 What to Eat, Drink & Skip at the Edinburgh Christmas Market.
🌟 A Solo Traveller’s Guide to Christmas in Edinburgh.

Pinterest 📌

Packing for a winter trip to Edinburgh? Save this checklist for your suitcase and thank yourself later.