Must-haves for completing the North Coast 500
The North Coast 500 is endlessly rewarding, from the sweeping views of the Highlands and dramatic seascapes to the people, attractions and experiences you’ll encounter along the way. However, fail to prepare and prepare to meet frustrations too, that could sour what should be a journey of a lifetime. Discover how to approach Scotland’s iconic road trip for an utterly enjoyable experience you’ll savour, mile by mile.
Organising appropriate cover
In advance of your trip, when you’re booking your accommodation, ensure you have appropriate cover in place. This should include travel insurance and car insurance covering leisure journeys as well as commuting. Consider opting for a telematics insurance policy, which rewards careful driving and could lead to a lower premium if you prove a safe approach over the 516-mile route. If you’re planning on sharing the driving, all drivers should be named on the insurance for proper protection.
It also pays to check your policy’s breakdown cover. Empty stretches in remote areas such as between Durness and Tongue mean roadside garages can be hard to come by in an emergency.
Planning your journeys
Don’t look at distances alone when planning your day-to-day itinerary. Some sections of road are far more challenging than others with many twists and turns or include lots of stops you’ll want to be able to linger at which will naturally slow progress.
Research the route thoroughly to plan your daily sections with realistic timings, rather than aiming to cover large distances. This is a chance to escape the urban and unwind after all! For example, the drive between Ullapool and Applecross looks short on a map but can easily take several hours once you factor in viewpoints, winding roads and traffic on the Bealach na Bà.
Use a mix of physical maps and digital navigation, so you have a back-up if one fails you. Mobile signal fades in parts of Sutherland and Wester Ross, so offline navigation prevents the frustration of losing directions halfway along a road.
Packing for all weather
The Highlands rarely settle on one weather pattern for long. You may start the morning under blue skies and reach the north coast in wind-driven rain, with conditions changing rapidly and unpredictably.
Pack layers you can adjust throughout the day, as this is most effective for insulation and gives you the flexibility you need to move with the mood of the weather. A lightweight waterproof jacket and quick-drying trousers are a must for the wet Scottish climate! You’ll need a fleece or similar for warmth on the mountains or windswept coastal paths, possibly even at the height of summer. Don’t forget sensible shoes you feel safe and comfortable driving and hiking in.
Bring a small daypack you can keep near the front seats, so you have what you need to hand at every stop.
Preparing your vehicle
Your vehicle is your lifeline along the NC500, so it’s vital it’s in good order.
Check safety essentials like tyre pressure and tread depth, lights, brakes and fluid levels before leaving, either independently or at your trusted local garage. Bear in mind that Highland roads include steep climbs, rougher surfaces and long descents, all of which place extra strain on tyres and brakes. Ensure you have a comprehensive emergency kit in the boot in case of breakdowns, including a warning triangle, food and water, blankets, basic tools and jump leads.
Fuel planning for your route is also key. Fill the tank when you pass through major towns such as Ullapool or Thurso, even if you don’t need to, rather than waiting until the warning light appears. Petrol stations appear less frequently than you might imagine along the northern stretches, especially if you’re used to the level of facilities available in busy urban areas like London.
Ensuring in-vehicle comfort
You spend many hours behind the wheel on the NC500, so small comforts make a big difference to your enjoyment. Supporting your wellbeing can also contribute to safer driving.
Adjust your seating position early in the trip so your back stays supported on longer drives. A lumbar cushion or small travel pillow can prevent the stiffness that creeps in during slow-moving sections of road. Keep water, snacks and a thermos within easy reach so you can take short breaks at scenic spots, instead of pushing on while tired and risking dangerous driving.
Create a playlist or find some podcasts and download them before you leave Wi-Fi zones. Music and conversation help pass the quieter miles between villages, keeping you alert while the glorious views unfold outside your windscreen.