Since its inception, the Society has been supportive of exploration. Its most notable early expedition was that of the Scottish National Antarctic Expedition of 1902-04, records of which are held within the Society’s archives. A follow up expedition 100 years later by Glasgow University has used results from this expedition to analyse the effects of global warming on the Antarctic continent.

Latterly the Society has moved its focus on funding towards University, schools and other organizations with a Scottish emphasis, as part of its overall support for education in geography. These expeditions can receive RSGS Funding or RSGS approval.  University students working towards undergraduate degree dissertations or looking for field experience, schools interested in environmental issues and processes as part of the Geography curriculum, and organizations wishing to engage the young in their local and international environment are encouraged to apply.

As well as providing funding, RSGS also organises training and expedition planning events; holds an annual Review Day for RSGS-supported expeditions; liaises with other grant giving bodies in support of expeditions and invites experienced travellers and explorers to speak at over a dozen members' centres throughout Scotland, giving firsthand experience of travel and expedition life.

In return for funding or approval, RSGS asks that expeditions provide a final report. Expedition reports dating back to the late 1960’s have been submitted to RSGS and are available for consultation, by prior arrangement, to interested parties. Some of these reports have been summarized and are available below, categorised by continent:

• Africa
• North America
• Central America
• South America
• Antarctica
• Asia
• Europe
• Oceania