Winter in Swedish Lapland Packing List

Each day in Lapland will provide exciting adventures. Experience untouched silent forests, watch the magical Northern Lights dance across the sky and learn about the native Sami culture. This Californian left Lapland at least 3 times hardier then when I arrived and I am sure you will experience the same. As one local told me, coldness is just a state of mind.

1. Pack weather appropriate footwear - My feet are always the first thing that gets cold

• Good outdoor weatherproof boots: make sure to not buy your boots too small. The best boots are half a size too big and come with a liner that you can take out of your boots at night. My favorite winter boots are Sorrels, they are great for walking, hiking and all-around winter activities.
• Socks: a good pair of socks will do wonders in Lapland. Make sure you bring more than one pair. Your socks shouldn’t be too tight and allow for circulation. My favorite material is -wool blend, wool is quick drying and will keep your toes nice and toasty. Favorite sock company: Stance Socks.

Good winter boots

Wool socks will keep you warm

Cammie wearing weather appropriate layers

2. Under layers

• The first layer to touch your body should be a light layer of wool.
• Bring 3-4 layers to wear under your jacket. Wearing layers is always better than wearing a heavy jacket that is hard to move in.
• Avoid cotton!

Wear layers under your jacket

Layers will keep you warm on all your adventures

3. Protect that money maker aka your face

• A hat that provides coverage for your ears is necessary. You do not want any heat escaping from your ears.
• Pack a scarf or balaclava. My favorite item is a chunky tube scarf, made by North Face

Bring a warm hat and scarf

Cammie keeping warm at the Ice Hotel

4. Outer layers

• Bring waterproof ski or trekking pants that are large enough to fit your thermals underneath.
• A weatherproof jacket with enough to fit a few layers underneath will make a huge difference.
• Gloves! I prefer mittens as my hands stay warmer. If you know your hands get cold bring under gloves that have touch screen fingers to use your phone.

Cammie wearing warm outer layers

A good jacket will keep you warm in the snow

5. Other things to keep in mind

• Saunas are a part of the culture in Swedish Lapland. Make sure to bring a swimsuit and try out one of the saunas located in the middle of forest with no one around.
• Don’t forget to pack casual clothing for the lodge. After a day of exploring, it is important to bring  comfortable loungewear to relax in the lodge (footwear included).
• Invest in a case that keeps your phone warm. Many phones shut off in the cold weather. LifeProof cases and Otterbox cases can sometimes combat this.

Sauna

If you pack well you'll be cozy and snug on all of your outings

If you forget something don’t fret! Many of the properties we work with provide very fashionable, warm outerwear onesies, gloves and boots. Make sure to check with your travel expert to see if this applies to the area you are traveling.