With temperatures often going far below freezing, packing the right gear is essential to fully enjoy all of the winter activities that Lapland has to offer.
Having experienced a month of winter in Lapland (in a campervan!), we’re confident we know everything you could possibly need to have an incredible time in this arctic wonderland.
This ultimate winter packing guide is designed to help you prepare for every situation, from essential clothing layers to must-have winter accessories and cold-weather gear.
Packing List Overview
Here’s a quick bullet pointed overview of the essentials if you’re in a rush, or keep reading for a complete breakdown:
- Thermal top & bottoms
- Fleece jumpers or jackets
- Down or synthetic jacket
- Waterproof coat
- Waterproof trousers
- Winter / Hiking boots
- Wool Socks
- Gloves
- Scarf
- Hat or Balaclava
- Camera
- Wide Lens
- Tripod
- Spare Camera batteries
- Camera Bag
- Torch
- Hand warmers
- Sunglasses
- Moisturiser
- SPF
Winter Clothing Essentials:
Base Layers (Thermal Wear)
Base layers are essential for keeping warm in Lapland’s extreme cold, as they wick away moisture and trap body heat. Go for fabrics like merino wool, known for its soft, breathable and moisture-wicking properties.
Synthetic materials like polyester or nylon blends are a cheaper alternative that still offer good insulation and quick drying. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture and can make you feel colder.
What to Pack:
- Thermal Tops: Long-sleeved thermal tops will keep your upper body warm and dry.
- Thermal Leggings: Full-length thermal leggings to wear under your outer layers.
Mid Layers (Insulation)
Mid layers provide insulation by trapping body heat between your base and outer layers. Fleece and down are popular options—fleece is lightweight and breathable, while down offers excellent warmth for its weight.
These layers should fit comfortably over your base layers without restricting movement.
What to Pack:
- Fleece Jacket or Jumper: A lightweight fleece for added warmth and flexibility.
- Down or Insulated Jacket: A packable down jacket for extreme cold, perfect for layering under your outer shell.
Outer Layers (Waterproof & Windproof)
Outer layers protect against wind, snow, and wet conditions, keeping your inner layers dry and insulated. Look for jackets and pants that are waterproof, windproof, and breathable, with features like adjustable cuffs and hoods.
What to Pack:
- Waterproof Jacket: A durable, windproof, and waterproof jacket with an insulated lining.
- Waterproof Pants: Insulated, weatherproof pants to keep your legs warm and dry during outdoor activities.
Footwear
Proper footwear is crucial for staying comfortable and dry during a Lapland winter. Insulated, waterproof boots and warm socks are a must to protect feet from the cold and snow. Hiking boots are often a great choice, as many are waterproof and insulated, and have good grip.
What to Pack:
- Winter Boots: Insulated and waterproof boots with good traction for snow and ice.
- Wool Socks: Thick, moisture-wicking wool socks to keep feet warm and dry.
Winter Clothing Accessories
Winter accessories are essential for keeping exposed parts warm, which are most vulnerable to cold in Lapland’s harsh climate. Much like other clothing items, materials like wool are great for insulating and moisture-wicking.
What to Pack:
- Gloves: Insulated, waterproof gloves to keep hands warm.
- Hat or Balaclava: A warm hat that covers the ears or a balaclava to protect the face and neck from wind and cold.
- Scarf: A thick scarf to protect the neck and face from icy winds.
Camera & Photography Gear:
If you’re travelling to Lapland in the winter then you’ll want to bring a camera and photography items to capture the magical northern lights and Lapland’s winter wonderland.
In such extreme conditions, having the right equipment—and keeping it protected—will make all the difference in documenting your adventure.
Camera
A mirrorless or DSLR camera is essential for capturing the northern lights and beauty of Lapland, as you’ll want to be able to control the settings to handle low-light conditions (northern lights) and harsh bright conditions (snow).
Lenses
The right lens is crucial for capturing the Northern Lights and vast landscapes. A wide-angle lens (14-24mm or similar) with a large aperture (f/2.8 or lower) is ideal, allowing you to capture as much of the sky as possible and maximise light in low-light settings.
Tripod
A tripod is a must for taking sharp, long-exposure shots of the northern lights. Opt for a lightweight, stable tripod that’s easy to set up on snowy or icy surfaces.
Extra Batteries
Cold temperatures quickly drain batteries, so make sure to bring spare batteries, and keep them warm by storing them in cases and bags, or in pockets close to your body.
Drone
This isn’t necessary, but if you own a drone and love photography like us, consider bringing it to capture the beauty of Lapland from above! Although, be wary of the battery life in extreme temperatures. We could only fly our drone for short periods otherwise it would get too cold and the battery would die (and fall out of the sky!)
Camera Bag
Make sure to bring a camera bag or backpack for when you go on excursions and hunt for northern lights. It’s also important to have a bag that is insulated and has protection for your camera.
Section 3: Miscellaneous Must Haves
Aside from clothing and camera gear, there are a few other essentials that will make your Lapland trip more comfortable and enjoyable. These items help combat the cold, protect against the elements, and keep you feeling good throughout your adventure.
Hand Warmers
Reusable hand warmers are great for keeping your hands warm when gloves aren’t enough. Slip them into your gloves or pockets for an extra layer of warmth during long outdoor activities.
Torch
A torch (flashlight) is not always necessary but is a good item to bring with you. Most resorts and hotels are lit up to help you to navigate the dark, but if you plan on exploring the wilderness at night, it’s a good idea to bring one. A torch can also be a great accessory for photography, lighting up the landscape and being a focal point of a photo.
Sunglasses
The bright reflection of sunlight off the snow can be intense, even in winter. Pack a pair of high-quality sunglasses to protect your eyes from glare and UV rays, especially if you’re spending time outside during the day.
eSIM
Staying connected while exploring Lapland is essential, especially if you’re exploring some of the more remote areas. An eSIM allows you to easily get local data without needing a physical SIM card or needing to switch your existing card.
Skincare (SPF & Moisturizer)
The combination of cold temperatures and dry air can be tough on your skin. Pack a rich, hydrating moisturiser to prevent dryness and a high-SPF sunscreen to protect exposed skin from the sun’s rays and UV reflection off the snow.
Useful things to know
What is the average temperature in Lapland during winter?
In winter, temperatures in Lapland can range from -5°C (23°F) to as low as -30°C (-22°F), depending on the time of year and specific location. It’s important to be prepared for extreme cold, especially during outdoor activities.
How many layers of clothing should I wear in Lapland?
To stay warm in Lapland, the recommended layering system includes three layers: a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof, windproof outer layer. You can add extra layers if temperatures drop significantly.
Are there any specific items that are hard to find in Lapland?
Items like specialised camera equipment and certain medications may be hard to find in Lapland. It’s best to bring these items with you to ensure you have what you need.
Will my hotel or resort provide any thermal clothing?
Many hotels and resorts in Lapland, especially those offering outdoor excursions, provide thermal overalls, boots, and gloves for activities. However, it’s best to check this with your hotel before you arrive, and it’s still essential to bring your own base and mid-layers, as well as accessories like hats and scarves.
Best Lapland Travel Resources
- 🎫 Find top rated Lapland tour & activies here.
- ✈️ Find the cheapest flights to Lapland here.
- 🚗 Hire a car from Rovaniemi airport here.
- 🏨 Find the best places to stay in Lapland here.
Read More From Lapland
If you’re looking for more inspiration or tips on visiting Lapland, be sure to check out our other blog posts below or see our Finland page here 👇
