The short answer: dress in layers with a waterproof, reserve child seats when you book, bring snacks, and tell your guide about motion sickness or mobility needs in advance. Do that, and a private day tour from Edinburgh is one of the easiest ways to see the Highlands, lochs and castles with your family — no coach timetable, no strangers, and stops that fit your group.
Below are the 14 tips we share with every family and group before their tour, from years of guiding guests around Scotland.
By Waseem Abuaglain, Founder & Driver-Guide
Before You Go
1. Be ready on time
Our day tours depart at 8:00 AM, and starting on time is what lets us fit in every planned stop without rushing. A late start can mean shortening or dropping a stop later in the day. Don't worry about the pace once you're on the road — your guide builds in plenty of breaks.
2. Dress for Scottish weather
Scotland's weather is famously changeable, so come prepared for anything:
- •All year: a waterproof jacket and sturdy, comfortable walking shoes.
- •Winter: warm layers you can add or remove as you go.
- •Any season: expect sudden changes in temperature or rain, even on a sunny morning.
3. Get comfortable on Highland roads
Highland roads are beautiful but often narrow and winding. We stop regularly so everyone can stretch their legs, and if anyone is prone to motion sickness, tell your guide in advance — we'll plan the driving and breaks around it.
4. Reserve child car seats
Under UK law, children must use a suitable child car seat until they're 12 years old or 135 cm tall, whichever comes first. A booster seat is recommended up to 150 cm so the seatbelt sits correctly. We provide one free baby seat, one child seat and one booster seat — please reserve them when you book, and your guide will help fit them.
5. Pack for the unexpected
If motion sickness is a concern, bring the medication that works for you. With younger children, a spare change of clothes makes spills and muddy puddles no trouble at all.
6. Tell us about accessibility needs
We want everyone in your group to enjoy the day. If anyone has mobility challenges or specific needs, let us know in advance so we can make suitable arrangements. Many of our stops have accessible facilities, and on a private tour we can choose stops and set a pace that suits your group.
On the Day
7. Keep everyone fed without losing time
Every itinerary includes well-timed stops at local cafés and restaurants. Even so, snacks and sandwiches are great for quick energy between stops, and choosing a takeaway lunch over a sit-down meal leaves more time for exploring.
8. Keep children entertained
Colouring books, puzzles or a portable game help on the longer drives. Better still, involve children in planning — let them pick a stop they're excited about, whether it's looking for Nessie or meeting the Highland cows.
9. Make the most of every break
Breaks aren't just for stretching your legs — they're some of the best moments of the day. A stroll by a loch, a short climb to a viewpoint, or simply taking in the scenery: these are often the memories guests talk about most.
10. Take better photos
- •Early morning and late afternoon light gives the most dramatic shots.
- •Keep your camera or phone handy for spontaneous moments from the window.
- •Ask your guide for the best photo spots — from famous viewpoints to quieter places most visitors drive straight past.
11. Talk to your guide
Your guide is much more than a driver. Use the time between stops to:
- •Hear the stories behind local legends, historical events and traditions.
- •Ask questions about Scottish history and heritage.
- •Share your interests, so the day can be tailored to your group.
- •Swap stories — our guides love hearing about life and traditions from around the world.
Travelling Respectfully
12. Follow local etiquette
Follow the rules at historic sites and nature reserves, be courteous with locals — especially in small, remote communities — and when visiting a church or castle, dress modestly and keep noise down.
13. Leave no trace
We're committed to responsible tourism. Please use the bins provided, give wildlife space, and avoid disturbing natural habitats — so these places stay beautiful for the next visitors.
14. Buy local souvenirs
Scotland is known for its craftsmanship: handmade tartans, woollen scarves and cashmere in local shops, pottery, jewellery and paintings at craft markets, and whisky straight from the distillery. Buying from local makers gives you a meaningful keepsake and helps preserve Scottish heritage.