Packing for August trip to Outer Hebrides

Hi Michelle

I kayak and swim in the sea here in Skye and I always wear a wet suit even in the height of summer. You will encounter jelly fish so the wet suit offers some protection from them, but the water is never warm!

It is usually breezy and although I also run warm on body temperature and usually wear short sleeves indoors, I rarely wear short sleeves outdoors here in Skye. I doubt you'll need thermals but I'd suggest a t shirt or base layer, a light weight fleece or other mid layer and a windproof, waterproof outer layer as a jacket. Surprisingly August can be one of our wetter summer months (May and June are typically driest). If you are hiking then you might well want some waterproof over trousers or waterproof hiking trousers.

I never find it really warm enough to wear sandals here although I have sometimes worn my sturdy walking sandals in the evenings. People here are not dressy!

It is likely to be much warmer in Lyme Regis!!!

Hope that helps
Jacqui (Skyegirl)

Thanks you so much for your reply! Would you think I would need a full wetsuit or a short sleeved one? I do have both, as ice just went out on our lakes. That being said when summer does come our lakes do get to a lovely temperature between mid July and early September. By end of October we start to have snow again though. 😫

Hi Michelle
I only have a full length, long sleeved one so can't really answer your question. I think for August a short one would be OK temperature wise, but personally I do like to feel protected from the jelly fish stings.
Jacqui

I usually wear a full length wetsuit but if you are just doing some swimming for a short time, I think you’\d manage with the shorter versions.But a wetsuit is a must whichever the length! That said, cold water swimming is a big thing over here now and plenty of people brave the chill with just bathing costumes - not for me!

It’s the wind that is likely to chill the air temperature considerably and you certainly get the wind in the Outer Hebrides.I feel the cold and always bring my duvet jacket anywhere up north in summer and especially the islands.A fleece doesn't work for me as the wind tends to go right through it. Your better bringing what might be too warm than not being warm enough though there are shops on Harris which sell some hefty warm cardigans and jumpers:)

Harris is magnificent, one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen.Beaches are out of this world gorgeous and of corse, with that mountain backdrop…enjoy!