The Land Reform Act 2003 gives everyone rights of access over land and inland water throughout Scotland, subject to specific exclusions set out in the Act and as long as they behave responsibly. These rights are sometimes referred to as 'freedom to roam'. -SCOTTISH RIGHTS OF WAY AND ACCESS SOCIETY
What are the rules of respect? The rules are very simple, and it is of utmost importance to play by them. You have to respect the interests of other people, care for the environment and take responsibility for your own actions. The Outdoor Access Code also gives guidance for users, for example for cycling it states that if you are cycling off-path, particularly in winter, to avoid going onto wet, boggy or soft ground, and churning up the surface. This should be common sense anyway. In regards to wild camping, bikepackers should avoid causing problems for local people and land managers by not camping in enclosed fields of crops or livestock, and by keeping well away from buildings, roads or historic structures. Leaving no trace is also essential; taking away all litter, removing all traces and not causing any pollution.
What about doing ‘the business’?
There is of course guidance for that too! ‘Go’ at least 30 metres from any body of water. Toilet paper and sanitary items should be carried out as they can take a long time to breakdown, and animals may dig them up. Avoid going within 50 metres of paths or 200 metres of huts, bothies and crags, and never in caves. Dig a 15 cm hole in the soil and bury your excrement, ideally with a trowel. Dig into the soil through any snow, as this will melt at some stage. If digging a hole is absolutely impossible, then spread your excrement thinly or arrange rocks such that air can circulate. Avoid just putting a rock on top as it slows decomposition.