Frequently Asked Questions
Got a question about our tours? You’re in the right place.
From what to pack to where we’ll stop along the way, our FAQs have you covered. Still curious? Just drop us a message—we’re always happy to help.
Before You Book
Where do the tours go?
Each tour has an itinerary which you can find by selecting a tour on the website and then scrolling down to the 'tour itinerary' section of the web page (you'll see a map of Scotland next to it). The tours are quite flexible to ensure we can smoothy navigate any 'bumps in the road. Your guide will take you to the most interesting, beautiful and inspiring places, giving you plenty of memories to take home with you.
What days of the week do the tours leave?
3 Day Isle of Skye tours run every Friday throughout the year. 3 Day Skye and Loch Ness runs on Wednesdays from the end of March to the end of October. 5 Day Skye and Highland Fling select Mondays from the end of March to the end of October.
What time do the tours leave?
During the winter season (Standard Time – usually November to March) our tours depart at 8:00am and return between 4:30pm and 6:00pm. During the summer season (Daylight Saving Time – usually April to October) our tours depart at 9:00am and return between 5:30pm and 7:00pm. Always check your email confirmation for exact departure times. Please be aware that we can not be responsible for any onward travel arrangements that you may have.
Where do the tours leave from?
All tours depart from our hostel in the Old Town of Edinburgh: Castle Rock Hostel, 15 Johnston Terrace, Edinburgh, EH1 2PW. Always check your email confirmation for exact departure location and time.
Is there an age restriction on the tours?
Passengers must be aged between 18 and 39. Our tours are designed with young travellers and backpackers in mind, and everything from the pace to the atmosphere reflects that. Most of our travellers are aged 18 to 35, which is who we primarily speak to in our marketing—but we’re happy to welcome anyone up to age 39 who’s looking for the same fun, social and active experience. We spend as much time as possible off the bus, exploring Scotland up close, which can include short walks and hikes, so a reasonable level of fitness is helpful. Accommodation is in social, hostel-style dorms, and a big part of the experience is meeting like-minded people and making new friends along the way. To keep that friendly, backpacker-style vibe, we set an age range of 18 to 39 for all passengers. If you’re under 18 or over 40, you won’t be able to join our tours. We reserve the right to cancel bookings that fall outside this age range, and recommend checking out other tour companies in Scotland that cater to a wider range of ages.
What language are the tours conducted in?
All MacBackpackers tours are conducted in English. Our guides are local Scots, so you’ll hear plenty of authentic Scottish accents, stories, humour, and slang along the way — all part of the experience! Don’t worry though, our guides are experienced with international travellers and speak clearly so everyone can follow along and enjoy the tour.
Are your tours suitable for solo travellers?
Absolutely — our tours are perfect for solo travellers. In fact, many people join MacBackpackers on their own, making it easy to meet like-minded travellers from around the world. Our small-group tours, social hostels, and friendly guides create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, or as a couple.
How many people are on each tour?
Our tours typically operate with either a 16-seater or 28-seater bus, depending on the tour and demand. This keeps the groups small enough for a personal experience while still creating a fun social atmosphere on the road.
Can I choose my seat on the bus?
Seats are allocated on a first come, first served basis each day of the tour. We recommend arriving on time in the morning if you have a preferred spot! Many travellers also switch seats throughout the trip, giving everyone a chance to enjoy different views and chat with different people.
Accommodation & Bookings
Where do you stay on tour?
We pre-book accommodation for every person on tour so you don’t have to! Our tours stay at a range of hostels across the Highlands and the accommodation fee of £38 per night is payable when making a booking or upon arrival at our departure point (Castle Rock Hostel in Edinburgh). The cost of accommodation includes breakfast for each morning of the tour (excluding the first morning). You can learn more about where we stay on tour by going to our Where We Stay page.
Is accommodation included in the tour price?
Unless otherwise stated e.g. seasonal packages, accommodation is not included in the price of the tour, but is guaranteed for you whilst on tour. You will therefore be asked to pay on arrival at the hostels and the cost is from £38 per person per night, this includes breakfast. You can pay for your accommodation with either cash or credit/debit card at the departure point (Castle Rock Hostel) You also have the option to pre-pay for your accommodation on tour by adding this option at the point of booking.
Do you organise accommodation in Edinburgh?
Unfortunately we do not reserve any accommodation for you outside of the tour nights. You will have to arrange your own pre and post tour accommodation in Edinburgh. However, we do offer you a 10% discount code for Castle Rock, Royal Mile Backpackers and High Street Hostel included with your booking confirmation. Please book directly with one of these hostels or alternative accommodation that is within close distance to the departure point at Castle Rock Hostel. Please ensure you book with plenty of notice to ensure that beds are not sold out, especially if you are travelling to Scotland in the peak summer months.
What types of accommodation are available (dorm, private, etc.)?
Accommodation on MacBackpackers tours is dorm-style hostel accommodation only, which helps keep the tours social, fun, and budget-friendly. The only exception is on the 3 Day Isle of Skye tour, where you may be able to book a private room directly with Saucy Mary's Lodge due to its close proximity to the hostel used by the tour. If choosing this option, you’ll need to make your own way to the tour pick-up point on time each morning. You must also email info@macbackpackerstours.com before booking to confirm availability and arrangements.
Can I upgrade my accommodation?
No — accommodation upgrades are not available on our tours. Staying in hostels is a big part of the MacBackpackers experience, creating a social and friendly atmosphere where travellers can easily meet each other and share the adventure together.
Who will I be sharing a room with?
You’ll be sharing hostel dorm rooms with other travellers from your tour group. If you would prefer a female-only room, you can request one by emailing info@macbackpackerstours.com, although this will always be subject to availability.
Preparing for Your Trip
What should I bring with me?
It is important to come prepared for what we get up to on tour. We like to get out and about and get in about nature, and you need the right gear to do that – a pair of flipflops won’t see you through a hike. Therefore, we recommend: Sturdy walking boots or trail shoes from a reputable brand. A good pair of walking shoes is the difference between a nice relaxing hike and being hugely uncomfortable – Nobody likes blisters and twisted ankles. A lightweight waterproof outer layer. Scotland’s weather can be changeable, and when clouds get trapped in the mountains that means rain. We recommend a shell-type waterproof outer layer for keeping the rain out that can be worn over your existing attire. Remember: Water resistant is not the same as waterproof. Cold weather clothing. Nobody wants sniffles so be prepared to wrap up warm, especially in the winter months. It will be cold – This can be as simple as a hoodie or sweater. A small backpack. Ideally with a waterproof lining or cover, this is for your daily adventures with enough room for the essentials like food, water, cameras, medicine, waterproofs, dry socks, warm gear, etc. Spending money. Be it whisky, food or souvenirs for people back home: you’ll need spending money. When you go to your local Bureau de Change you may be issued with ‘Bank of England’ notes – Don’t worry, these are perfectly acceptable. An open mind. Travelling is all about seeing new places, meeting new people and trying new things – Make the most of it.
What about the weather? What can I expect?
You should try to be prepared for all types of weather on our tours as it can be quite changeable. We would suggest that you bring warm clothes, a waterproof, sturdy boots/shoes and swimming gear. There can be rain and wind even in the height of summer. If you are coming in winter bring plenty of extra layers and dry socks to change into after a long day of wet hiking conditions.
How much luggage can I bring?
The buses are small so that we can take you to the places that the big coaches can’t go. This means the storage is reduced too and so we would ask that you just bring what you need for the trip. If you have really big bags or large suitcases and you are staying at one of our 3 Edinburgh hostels before your tour then please ask the staff if you can leave it in the luggage store until you get back. If you are not staying in one of our hostels then please arrive slightly earlier for your tour and ask the staff in the hostel you depart from to keep it in the luggage store for you.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes — we strongly recommend that all travellers joining MacBackpackers have valid travel insurance before starting their tour. Travel insurance can help cover unexpected situations such as medical emergencies, cancellations, delays, lost luggage, or personal belongings.
Do I need a visa to join the tour?
Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa or travel authorisation to enter the UK before joining your MacBackpackers tour. It is your responsibility to check the latest entry requirements for the United Kingdom before travelling and ensure you have the correct documents in place.
Where can I store extra luggage in Edinburgh?
Extra luggage can usually be stored at the reception of Castle Rock Hostel while you are on tour. We recommend emailing the hostel reception directly before your trip to confirm availability and arrangements for luggage storage.
On the Tour
What are the people on the bus like?
We design our tours for 18 to 35 year olds but we accept up to 39 if you are fit and still excited to stay in hostels. Most people are travelling on their own and are looking to meet new people and have fun on their trip. There are only ever 29 people (at the most) on the bus and we do our very best to ensure that everyone enjoys the tour.
What are the buses like?
Our fleet of modern Mercedes Benz and MAN 16-29 seat mini-coaches have everything you would expect; heating, air conditioning, reclining seats, seat belts and plenty of Scottish music! They are safe and modern and are low emission Euro 5/6 compliant. Please note there are no toilet facilities on the coaches, though we do make frequent rest room stops.
How long do we spend off the bus?
As long as possible! For example, if you drove from Edinburgh directly to Inverness it would take about three hours but we do it in nine hours so at the very least half the day is spent off the bus visiting historic sites, going on walks through forests and climbing hills (where possible) and listening to dramatic stories about Scotland.
What about food?
The price of the tour doesn’t include food. However, free breakfast is included in the price of accommodation. We make supermarket/ cafe stops every day and each of the hostels has a well equipped kitchen for our guests to use. There will also be pubs and restaurants near each hostel (except from the Loch Ness hostel which is very remote) if you feel like eating out in the evening.
How often do we stop for breaks/ toilets?
We make regular comfort stops throughout all MacBackpackers tours, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities for toilet breaks, food, photos, and stretching your legs. Many of these stops are in beautiful Scottish towns and villages such as Pitlochry and Portree, giving you time to explore along the way as well.
Are there charging points on the bus?
No — our buses do not currently have charging points or onboard Wi-Fi. We recommend bringing a portable power bank to keep your devices charged during the day. Hostel accommodation uses standard UK plug sockets, so international travellers should also remember to bring a UK travel adapter.
Can I bring alcohol on the bus?
You can bring alcohol with you on tour, but we ask everyone to drink responsibly. MacBackpackers reserves the right to remove anyone from the tour if their behaviour becomes disruptive, unsafe, or negatively affects the experience of other passengers or the driver.
Is the itinerary fixed or flexible?
Our itineraries are flexible rather than completely fixed. While we always aim to visit all the key destinations and highlights, our guides may adjust timings or stops during the day depending on weather, road conditions, traffic, parking, or local events. This flexibility helps our drivers create the best possible experience for the group and make the most of each day in Scotland.
Payments, Changes & Policies
What is the refund/cancellation policy?
Full booking terms, cancellation policies, and passenger conditions can be found on our Terms and Conditions page. The link can be found at the bottom of this page.
Do I have to tip the driver?
Tipping is not mandatory, but it is always greatly appreciated by our drivers. Our guides work incredibly hard to deliver the best possible experience, from sharing stories and local knowledge to safely navigating Scotland’s roads and making your trip unforgettable.
What payment methods do you accept?
Tours with MacBackpackers must be paid for in advance by card or PayPal, and full payment is required at least 28 days before departure to secure your place on the tour. Accommodation can either be pre-paid during booking or paid on arrival before departure. Accommodation payments can be made by cash or card.
Can I change my booking after I've made it?
Yes — booking changes may be possible depending on availability and how close you are to your departure date. All amendment requests must be made in writing by the lead passenger via info@macbackpackerstours.com. Transferred bookings are subject to availability and may include an administration fee depending on the notice given before departure. Please note that transferred bookings are non-refundable and can only be transferred once.
What happens if the tour is cancelled by MacBackpackers?
In the very unlikely event that MacBackpackers cancels a tour, customers will receive a refund on a pro-rata basis, up to the full amount paid for the tour and any accommodation that was paid for in advance through MacBackpackers. Full booking terms, cancellation policies, and passenger conditions can be found on our Terms and Conditions page. The link can be found at the bottom of this page.
Still wondering?
Terms and Conditions
Please check out our T&Cs page for our full list of terms and conditions.
Any other questions?
If you have any other questions, feel free to get in touch with the MacBackpackers team by emailing info@macbacpackerstours.com.