Travel Scotland On A Budget: 19 Tips For Saving Money
Embarking on a family adventure through the picturesque landscapes of Scotland is a dream come true for many travellers. The mist-covered hills, ancient castles, and serene lochs are enchanting backdrops to a country perfect for families to explore. It is a popular misconception that a trip to Scotland will burn a hole in your pocket. You can travel Scotland on a budget and still have a memorable and rewarding experience.
With half our family having been born in Scotland and all of us having lived there for over a decade, we have come up with a few money saving tips in Scotland.
Our number one tip is not to try go to every ‘must-see’ tourist attraction! This will probably blow your budget and you can still experience the best of Scotland with a bit of planning.
Travel Scotland On A Family Budget
Scotland attracts millions of visitors annually, and we can share why! We are still exploring our wonderful home country and are often wowed by what we find, even on a budget!
Scotland can offer excellent value for budget-conscious travellers. While it might initially appear pricier than many other European countries, there are numerous ways to make it a more budget-friendly destination.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the art of exploring Scotland on a budget with your family. We’ll give you valuable tips, hidden gems, and budget-friendly activities to make your journey unforgettable without breaking the bank!
travel Scotland: 19 Budget Friendly Tips
The word “budget” often conjures thoughts of limitations and compromises, especially when it comes to family travel. However, taking a journey through the remarkable landscapes of Scotland will soon prove that budget-conscious travel can be both enjoyable and unforgettable.
1. Travel Off-Peak To Scotland
Consider travelling to Scotland during the shoulder or off-peak seasons (spring and autumn), when there are fewer crowds and accommodation and attractions may be cheaper. By being flexible with your travel dates and booking early, you can reduce the cost further; it is often worth trying different dates to compare prices before booking.
2. Travel Midweek
Not only can you find cheaper transport midweek, but there may also be deals on attraction prices such as ‘two for one’. By travelling midweek, we usually find much more space on trains and buses, making for much more comfortable journeys.
3. Book Budget Accommodation
Look for budget-friendly accommodation options like hostels, guesthouses, self-catering cottages, and basic hotels. Booking well in advance and using hotel comparison websites can help you find the best deals. We’ve found that family rooms are often cheaper than multiple rooms, and it is always worth asking for an extra bed if you are one short; this is usually cheaper than booking another room. Finally, try to plan at least three nights in each location. You often get a better price for a longer duration.
4. Avoid Tourist Hotspots
Select activities off the beaten track; popular tourist hotspots are only sometimes worth the extra money, especially when travelling on a budget as a family. We enjoyed the relative freedom when exploring areas without large crowds or queues and were much happier letting our kids have more freedom to explore.
5. Cook Your Own Meals
Feeding a family is expensive at the best of times and never more so than when you have to eat out. Self-catering accommodation comes with kitchen facilities, allowing you to prepare your meals and save on dining expenses. You can shop for groceries at local supermarkets, such as Tesco, Asda, Morrisons, Aldi and Lidl.
6. Pack A Picnic
Picnics are one of our favourite, budget-friendly ways to have inexpensive meals while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Scotland. Parks, lochs, beaches, woodland walks, and scenic viewpoints often have designated areas with tables, toilets and barbeque stands; if not, a simple blanket on the grass or sand is perfect on a sunny day!
7. Explore Free Attractions
There are many excellent, free attractions across Scotland that you and your kids will love. We particularly enjoy the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh with its fabulous displays, including exhibits from dinosaurs to science and technology. Galleries, parks, and historic sites across Scotland are also often free; remember to watch free festivals and events during your visit, such as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe (August), which offers numerous free performances and street shows.
8. National Trust And Historic Scotland Passes
Consider purchasing passes for organizations like the National Trust for Scotland and Historic Environment Scotland, which grant you access to multiple historic sites and properties at a reduced cost. Historic Scotland has an excellent visitor pass for £35 for seven days or £45 for fourteen days, giving access to a wide range of sites, including Castles, Abbeys, Ancient Settlements and much more!
9. Get Discounts Off Full Price
Look into discounts or city cards, which offer discounts on public transportation and attractions. Examples include the Edinburgh City Pass and Glasgow Sightseeing Pass; both offer excellent value for money. We extensively use these when visiting major Scottish Cities, and they have continuously saved us money.
10. Travel By Public Transportation
Use public transportation like buses and trains (often included in passes like the ones above!) instead of joining a tour group. Family tickets or passes may also be available for additional savings. Additionally, children under five travel free on all public transport in Scotland!
11. Walk To Explore Scotland On A budget
Many Scottish cities and towns are pedestrian-friendly, so save on transportation costs by walking and exploring on foot without the additional transport cost. Pick up a local map and walk!
12. Take Free Walking Tours
Some cities, like Edinburgh and Glasgow, offer free walking tours where you can learn about the city’s history and culture. Usually hosted by volunteers with extensive knowledge of some quirkier facts about their city, these tours are also an enjoyable way to meet other like-minded travellers. Our children have always found them to be great fun and very informative.
13. Take Day Trips To Cities
Select accommodation away from main cities or major tourist spots, attractions, and natural wonders. Then, plan day trips into the city. Usually, accommodation is cheaper than staying in expensive tourist areas. National Parks and beaches are free in Scotland and are an excellent choice for families on fair weather days.
14. Use Student And Family Discounts
If you have students in the family, take advantage of student discounts at any paid-for museums, attractions, and transportation. Remember to carry identification to prove student status. Many attractions also offer a family discount.
15. Pre-Book Activities
Consider booking attraction tickets online in advance. Aside from helping you to plan your days, this often saves you money compared to buying tickets at the door and can help you beat the queues.
16. Travel Light To Scotland
We travel using only carry-on baggage when flying, avoiding additional baggage fees charged by most airlines and helping ensure a quick exit from the airport on arrival.
Even for those travelling by other means, packing light makes it much easier to carry your bags and can avoid needing larger vehicles. For those concerned about not having enough clothes, wearing them a little longer really doesn’t hurt! You can often utilize laundry facilities at your accommodation if needed.
17. Get The Best Currency Exchange
Be mindful of currency exchange rates and fees. Compare rates at banks and exchange offices for the best deal. Ideally, set yourself up with a no-fee travel card before travelling to avoid paying overseas charges; these often come with a ‘perfect exchange rate’, beating high street or airport rates hands down.
18. Drink Scottish Tap Water
Tap water is safe to drink in Scotland, with ‘Top-Up Taps’ available for free in many towns and cities. Bring a refillable bottle each to save on purchasing drinks to quench your thirst. Always ask for free tap water if you eat in a restaurant or café.
19. Don’t Feel You Have To Tip
Tipping is not a cultural expectation in Scotland, so refraining from tipping can be a money-saving strategy for budget travellers. Also, prices displayed in Scotland include service charges and taxes so that you can enjoy your meals and experiences without the added expense of substantial tips.
Best Time To Visit Scotland On A Budget
The best time to travel on a budget to Scotland is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (late September to October).
During these months, you can expect milder weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodation and travel options, especially compared to the peak summer months. Scotland looks really beautiful with spring blooms and autumn foliage.
Visiting outside peak season allows families to explore Scotland’s landscapes and attractions without straining their wallets.
Cheapest Scottish Cities To Visit – On A Family Budget
When it comes to embarking on an unforgettable family adventure in Scotland without breaking the bank, a handful of charming cities offer both budget-friendly options and captivating experiences to keep the whole family engaged.
Inverness, nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, is a top pick for families seeking affordability and natural beauty. It has stunning riverside walks, free attractions like the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, and access to Loch Ness, where you might glimpse the legendary monster, ‘Nessie’.
Once the capital of Scotland, Stirling is a city steeped in history. It is home to the iconic Stirling Castle, which was home to Mary Queen of Scots. The external grounds are free to explore, offering an affordable glimpse into Scotland’s past.
Aberdeen is known for its beautiful beaches, including Balmedie Beach and Sands of Forvie. Some dolphins regularly play just off the coast. Enjoy coastal walks, visit Duthie Park, and explore the city’s maritime history without breaking the bank.
Lastly, the city of Dundee is a rising star with its burgeoning arts scene and free museums to explore. The world-famous V&A has established itself on the seafront, right next to RMS Discovery; you can view it free from the quayside. Dundee is also known as a gateway to exploring the Angus Glens.
Why not also explore:
>>> Glamis Castle With Kids <<<
>>> Family Friendly Hikes In Scotland <<<
>>> Hiking Ben Nevis With Kids <<<
How To Travel In Scotland: On A Budget
The size of Scotland should not be underestimated when planning a Scottish itinerary. Often, navigating hills will increase your travel time. Here is a snapshot of the travel options available.
By foot – If you book to stay in one city or town for your Scottish visit, exploring by foot is the cheapest way to get about.
Hire a car – The most flexible transport option, especially with kids, is to hire a car to travel in Scotland. Also, consider the fuel cost in your decision-making and compare pump prices – Supermarket service stations are usually the cheapest. Pick up and drop off hire cars at the same location to avoid additional charges.
Public transport – Kids under five travel free on public transport. The public transport network in Scotland is safe and reliable, with good links across the country.
Bus and train prices can work out cheaper than hiring a car for one person, but not for a family.
Train tickets must be booked in advance to find cheap off-peak prices from 12 weeks before departure. Buses tend to be cheaper than trains.
Ferries are your primary means of transport to reach the many islands around Scotland.
Flights – Scotland’s four main airports (Aberdeen, Edinburgh and two in Glasgow) and smaller regional ones (Inverness, Dundee, Orkney, Shetlands and Outer Hebrides) cover the country well.
Travelling into Scotland: There are many budget flight options direct into Scotland. Try to book at least one month in advance for the best deals. Check whether flying into one Scottish airport and out of another is cheaper than making a round trip – possibly saving time and money. Alternatively, a flight, train or ferry into England before taking an internal flight, bus or train into Scotland may be the cheapest option.
Budget-Friendly Accommodation In Scotland
For budget-friendly accommodation in Scotland, consider options like hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels in cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness. Additionally, you can explore self-catering cottages, campgrounds, or Airbnb rentals in more rural areas for cost-effective stays while enjoying Scotland’s natural beauty.
You need to book your accommodation as far in advance as possible. Cheap accommodation books fast, especially for peak season.
Top tip: Accommodation is more affordable outside cities and away from major tourist attractions.
Family Budget Friendly Things To Do In Scotland
We have personally done each one of these ‘things to do’, and they are all great examples of how to explore Scotland as cost-effectively as possible. Top of our list is spending time together as a family in nature, whether hiking hills, trekking the woods or exploring the beach. Scotland has a lot of budget friendly things to do.
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Enjoy the breathtaking Scottish landscapes. Explore by taking family hikes or nature walks in places like the Cairngorms National Park or the West Highland Way.
- Search for the Loch Ness Monster: Look for the mystical beast from the banks of Loch Ness. Remember to bring your binoculars and be ready to snap a photo!
- Castle Exploration: While some castles have entrance fees, many can be admired from the outside. Providing an opportunity to explore the history and architecture without spending money.
- Museum Hopping: Look for museums that offer free admission, like the Riverside Museum in Glasgow, which showcases transportation history, or head to Discovery Point, where you can see the world-famous RRS Discovery that sailed to Antarctica.
- Wildlife Watching: Scotland is rich in wildlife. Enjoy wildlife watching in Scotland’s natural landscapes. You may spot diverse species in their natural habitats, including red deer, seals, otters, and various bird species. Alternatively, visit reserves like the Scottish Seabird Centre or take a boat tour to spot seals, dolphins, and puffins.
- Scenic Drives: Take scenic drives through the countryside and explore charming villages and towns.
- Beach Days: Scotland has stunning beaches, and a day at the beach can be an affordable and fun family activity.
Travel Scotland on a Budget – FAQs
Here are a few common questions asked about travelling to and around Scotland:
Is scotland worth visiting?
Yes, Scotland is definitely worth visiting. It boasts breathtaking landscapes, a rich history, vibrant cities, and a unique culture that includes kilts, bagpipes, haggis and Scotch Whisky, making it a captivating destination for travellers.
Can You Wild Camp In Scotland?
Wild camping is legal in Scotland under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. This code allows responsible camping in most open, unenclosed land.
Is Scotland Family Friendly?
In our opinion, Scotland is generally considered family-friendly, with plenty of attractions and activities suitable for families, such as historic castles, scenic landscapes, and other outdoor adventures. Scottish hospitality is legendary, and a welcoming atmosphere is guaranteed, making it an excellent destination for families to travel Scotland on a budget.
How Many Days Is Enough To Visit Scotland?
The ideal duration for visiting Scotland depends on your interests and the places you want to explore. A well-rounded trip could range from 7 to 14 days, allowing you to experience major cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow and the scenic beauty of the Scottish Highlands and other attractions.
Is Scotland Dog Friendly?
Scotland is generally considered dog-friendly, with many restaurants, outdoor attractions and accommodations welcoming well-behaved dogs. However, checking individual policies and regulations is essential to ensure a smooth experience when travelling with your furry companion.
Which Is Better To Visit: Edinburgh Or Glasgow?
That’s a tough one as both cities offer different experiences, and it would depend on your preferences. While the capital city draws tourists for its historic charm, stunning architecture, and a rich cultural scene, Glasgow is known for its vibrant arts, contemporary music, and a more modern urban atmosphere.
Does It Always Rain In Scotland?
Scotland is known for its variable weather. While it does experience a fair amount of rainfall, it doesn’t always rain! The weather can sometimes be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to be prepared for ‘every season in a day’ when visiting Scotland.
Conclusion: Travel Scotland On A Budget
As you dream to travel the rugged highlands, roam ancient castles, and bask in the warmth of Scotland’s hospitality, remember that an enriching family adventure doesn’t have to demand a lavish budget.
With careful planning, resourcefulness, and an eagerness to uncover hidden gems, you can embark on a budget-friendly journey showcasing Scotland’s best landscapes, culture, and history.
So, gather your loved ones, pack your bags, and embark on an unforgettable Scottish expedition. It will prove that remarkable experiences can come with a reasonable price tag. You can travel Scotland on a budget!
