We were about to book our flights for Scotland this summer - we're planning on August due to our own time off/desires & flight prices. THEN someone told us the "midges"/bugs are unbearable. I'm finding a lot of competing thoughts & don't see much on this forum (that I've found yet, I'll keep reading) about it. Is this a horrible time to travel to Scotland like some people are making us feel? We're from Oklahoma - used to heat & some bugs, but nothing crazy. We're early 30s & enjoy adventures. Thank you so much!
Posted by
London
1652 posts
It really depends on quite a lot of factors.
August is quite a bad time for them. It depends what you're doing. If you're out in the countryside, especially near a body of still water, or just after rain, then that is the worst circumstances for midges. It's worst if you're standing or sitting still. Midges tend to be more of a problem in the west of the country, the western highlands for example. The slightest breeze keeps them away.
A hat with a mesh screen and some insect repellent spray is probably advised if you're doing some walking, especially in the west. It just depends on your luck with the conditions. I definitely have experienced unbearable times camping and fishing because of midges.
I'd add that although midges can be bad sometimes, it wouldn't put me off going somewhere in Scotland, and I don't think it should put you off planning a vacation in Scotland. You might well go and not see a single midge.
Posted by
Chicago
272 posts
We've done 2 August trips and 1 September trip. Contrary to all the warnings, we never were bothered by midges or any other bugs. We've been on the water and some light hiking with no problem. We were not walking through bogs or wetlands, however.
You can purchase bug spray/cream if you find them to be a nuisance.
We've actually experienced better weather in August than September. Enjoy your visit!
Posted by
Lincolnshire, UK
2605 posts
Midges and other biting insects like still air conditions and damp. They are particularly bad in forests and around still water. Anywhere exposed or windy and they aren't really a problem.
We ussed to walk a lot in the galloway forest and it was a standing joke that when we sat down, we had about 5 minutes before they arrived.
Husband used to smoke a pipe saying that it discouraged the midges and kept them away.
Wearing long sleeved shirts and trousers (no shorts) and tucking into socks helps. Also avoid dark colours which seem to attract the midges more than lighter colours. You can also buy 'anti-insect' clothing that has an inbuilt deterent.
Posted by
West Coast
449 posts
Lots of stores there sell a product called Smidge to deal with them. Their website also has a midge forecast to see how bad the critters are in an area on a particular day. You could also buy a head net when you get there which should ensure that you don’t see a single midge.
Posted by
London
358 posts
Midgies are annoying, but not so bad they should put you off a trip to Scotland- the summer is the nicest time to visit. In major cities you won't experience them very much.