What to pack for your tour of the UK

Britain's weather has a mind of its own — sunshine, showers, and a chilly wind can all show up on the same day, whatever the season. The good news is that packing for a UK tour doesn't need to be complicated. Layers and a decent waterproof cover most eventualities.

For the latest forecast before you travel, check bbc.co.uk/weather.

 

Luggage allowance

On extended tours, passengers are limited to one suitcase (max 15kg) and one carry-on such as a backpack. This isn't us being awkward — minibuses have limited luggage space, and keeping bags manageable means a smoother journey for everyone. Any excess luggage can usually be stored at your pick-up hotel.

On day tours, a small daypack is all you need.

 

For extended tours (2–5 days)

Pack for layers rather than bulk. A base layer, a mid layer, and a waterproof jacket will see you through most of what Britain throws at you. Beyond that:

• Clothing — light and breathable tops, a warm fleece or sweater, trousers or jeans, and a waterproof jacket. A scarf is worth throwing in spring and autumn, and gloves and a hat if you're travelling in winter.
• Footwear — comfortable walking shoes, ideally water-resistant. Some of the paths and villages we visit can get muddy, and you'll be on your feet for stretches of the day.
• Accessories — sunglasses, sunscreen (yes, even in the UK), a compact umbrella, and a reusable water bottle.
• Essentials — toiletries, your phone charger (our minibuses have USB points at every seat), and a power adapter if you're travelling from outside the UK. British plugs are Type G.

 

For day tours (1 day)

Keep it simple. A small daypack with:

• A waterproof jacket
• Warm layers if it's cold
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• A reusable water bottle
• Your charging cable
• A snack or two for the road

 

One last thing

We visit some genuinely special places on these tours — villages, countryside, coastlines that people have been looking after for centuries. Please take your litter home with you. Leave things exactly as you found them.