How to Travel to Scotland

Planning a trip to Scotland can be overwhelming, especially if you have never traveled overseas before. However, nowadays you do not need a travel agent to book your dream vacation to Scotland. With some helpful hints, you can make your planning for a trip to Scotland a success.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Social Security card Passport-sized photographs Identification card or driver's license Computer with Internet connection Scotland guidebooks
Social Security card
Passport-sized photographs
Identification card or driver's license
Computer with Internet connection
Scotland guidebooks

Step 1

Get a passport. Apply for a passport at your local post office. All European countries require U.S. citizens to enter with a passport. If you are staying more than 90 days, you will also need a visa. You will need your identification card or driver's license, Social Security card and the completed application. Print out the appropriate application and complete prior to going to the post office. Also go to your local Walgreens or Wal-Mart and get two copies of a passport-size photograph.

Step 2

Choose a destination. Before making any arrangements, you must decide what part of Scotland you wish to visit. Educate yourself with the large cities of Scotland or the Highlands. Decide if you want to go to one area or visit many parts of Scotland.

Step 3

Book a flight. Using the Internet you will find an abundance of resources. Decide if you would like to take a direct flight to Scotland or connecting flights from other parts of America, Canada or Europe, keeping in mind that connecting flights are often cheaper. Utilize the major airlines' websites to view schedules and fare prices. Keep in mind that booking during the off-season will save you hundreds of dollars on round-trip tickets. Check websites like Priceline.com and Orbitz.com for deals as well.

Step 4

Book your accommodation. Using the Internet or Scotland guidebooks, do some research. Find out where are the safest and most popular areas to stay in Scotland. Most books and websites will include their star ratings (from one to five, five being best). Decide what type of accommodation fits you best, whether looking for a quaint bed and breakfast in the country, a five-star hotel with every luxury possible or to rent a bed in a hostel to save money.

Step 5

Learn the public transportation. If you are not renting a car in Scotland, it is important to understand its train and bus system. Do a quick search on the Internet to learn what type of public transportation is offered in your area and whether it reaches every attraction you wish you see. Look into the cost and learn how to purchase tickets or make a reservation if needed.

Step 6

Make an itinerary. Write down everything you wish to see while in Scotland so you can plan a route with public transportation or use a map to find out where you need to drive.

Tips & Warnings

Gather a list of important numbers like the U.S. Embassy and local police in case you need them. Travel with copies of all your important document (i.e. credit cards, passports and identification card). Register with the U.S. Embassy upon arrival.

Gather a list of important numbers like the U.S. Embassy and local police in case you need them.

Travel with copies of all your important document (i.e. credit cards, passports and identification card).

Article Written By Melissa Warner

Melissa Warner is a freelance writer and editor in Milwaukee, Wis. Her work has appeared in a variety of publications, including "The Irish American Post" and "The London Student." Warner received a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and mass communication from the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee.

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