A car is essential for exploring the islands properly. Public transport is limited to a few bus routes on Lewis and Harris; in the southern islands — North Uist, Benbecula, South Uist, and Barra — buses are infrequent. Car hire is available at Stornoway and at most ferry terminals. Cycling is popular despite the hills and the wind, and the roads are quiet enough to make it worthwhile.
The main islands are connected by bridges and causeways: Lewis and Harris are a single island divided by mountains; North Uist, Benbecula, and South Uist are linked by causeways. Barra requires a ferry from South Uist. The single-track roads require patience — passing places are used regularly and there is an etiquette: pull in to let oncoming traffic or anything larger pass, and don't stop in the passing place itself.