Packing up for the trip...

**Phil** · 19th July 09, 08:32 AM

Originally Posted by fortcollinsjerry

....as to the cagoule - I have one of those long Pipers cape (sort of a rubbery waterproof thing). Are they still worn in bad weather?

Weather is more likely to be showers and sunny intervals this time of year. You want something that folds up small to carry and put on if it rains. Unless you plan to wear a kilt full-time I would still suggest some lightweight pants. You may feel more comfortable in some situations wearing pants and don't be disappointed when you find that almost nobody here will be kilted. You may even get tourists wanting to take your photo!
As Jock says it gets pretty cold here once the sun goes down and you need something warm (and preferably waterproof) for the Tattoo. We don't get balmy evenings here. Otherwise wear what you like. It isn't a particularly military type of show and the audience will not be wearing any sort of military dress.
Regards your debit card, your bank will charge you each time you use it so best to withdraw a few large amounts rather than many small ones. Most places here accept the major cards - Visa, Mastercard, American Express - just make sure your bank knows you will be using it here as they may block it otherwise. Also make sure you have a PIN (4-digit) to use in the ATM's. I would bring along another card in case you lose one as it will be your only source of cash.
And one final word of warning. If a shop makes a mistake when processing a card transaction and refunds the mistaken amount before putting through the correct amount, your card issuer is very likely to not only charge you but also convert the amount at a worse rate as if they were buying sterling back. So check when you get back.

**pdcorlis** · 19th July 09, 08:38 AM

Be sure to tell your bank where you are going and for how long - radical changes in buying patterns can freeze a credit or debit card. Not a good thing to unravel from across the pond!

**fortcollinsjerry** · 19th July 09, 11:01 AM

It seems we are in accord re: credit cards radical buying pattern. I was talking to my VISA customer service about that and she noted my expiration date was soon so she sent me a new card.

**pdcorlis** · 19th July 09, 11:08 AM

Sounds like you are good to go! I keep saying the next time I make a trip across the pond - all I'm taking is my camera gear, toothbrush, and a mostly empty backpack/bag. Then I'd buy what I need from thrift shops as I go along. Not the most stylish way to travel but it sure would be fun!

**fortcollinsjerry** · 19th July 09, 11:11 AM

Originally Posted by pdcorlis

Sounds like you are good to go! I keep saying the next time I make a trip across the pond - all I'm taking is my camera gear, toothbrush, and a mostly empty backpack/bag. Then I'd buy what I need from thrift shops as I go along. Not the most stylish way to travel but it sure would be fun!

I actually had a similar experience many years ago when I had to visit Sally Anny stores for warmer clothing than I brought with me. Great adventure!

**Paul** · 19th July 09, 11:30 AM

Great... have a good trip and see you next weekend hopefully!

**Skyelander** · 19th July 09, 12:11 PM

I will arrive Thursday afternoon and will get kilted immediately upon checking into my hotel and will stay kilted every day until I depart. Shorts are just not seen in Scotland but with rare exceptions. Carry an umbrella with you at all times. It rains off and on frequently, even if you wake up in the morning with not a cloud in the sky. It can change in a matter of minutes. Lots of walking on cobble stone streets demands comfortable shoes/hiking boots.
I will be picking up my new District of Fife kilt from Celtic Craft Centre that was ordered in Palm Springs. I told them to hold it in Edinburgh and I will get it when I arrive. Looking forward to donning it; it's sharp! For the Gathering on Saturday and Sunday, it's my clan kilt, McKinnon modern red.
It's going to be a great time and I'm looking forward to meeting lots of folks from around the globe! Happy and safe traveling to all. Countdown continues...

**Phil** · 19th July 09, 12:34 PM

Originally Posted by Skyelander

It's going to be a great time and I'm looking forward to meeting lots of folks from around the globe! Happy and safe traveling to all. Countdown continues...

Hope to see you Saturday at the Gathering.

**Peter Lowe** · 20th July 09, 05:01 AM

I think that Phil's advice is spot on! However I was walking down Leith Street this morning where there has been a Kilt Rental business for years. I popped in to Christopher Ross, 39 Leith Street Edinburgh EH1 3AT (about 150 yards from east end of Princes Street) and confirmed that they currently have X Rental for sale. I have never used the company so I cannot personally recommend them but it would be another option for you.

They would welcome a call in advance on +44 (0) 131 557 2226 or e-mail sales@chris-ross.com

Good luck and enjoy your visit to Scotland.

Peter