Planning a winter trip to Finnish, Swedish or Norwegian Lapland? Whether you’re heading to Rovaniemi to meet Santa, chasing the Northern Lights in Tromsø, or exploring snowy forests by husky sled, one thing is certain: you’ll need to pack smart for the Arctic cold.
Temperatures can drop well below -30°C (and even colder at night), so layering and proper gear are essential, not just for comfort, but for safety. This guide walks you through what to pack for adults and children, plus practical tips to avoid overpacking or missing key essentials.
What to Pack for Lapland in Winter – Adults
The best way to stay warm in Lapland is to wear layers. It’s better to wear several thin layers than one big jacket. Layers help keep your body warm and let you add or remove clothes depending on the weather.
Bring a few of each layer, especially for your base and middle layers, so you always have dry clothes and can dress for very cold days.
Thermal base layers
Start with 2 or 3 sets of thermal underwear (top and bottom). These are the first clothes you wear, close to your skin.
Choose merino wool if possible, it’s warm, soft and keeps you dry. If you find 100% merino, that’s even better. There are different thicknesses (called grams), so you can pick light or warmer ones.
It’s a bit of an investment, but it really helps you stay warm in Lapland, and you can use them again during winter at home.
Avoid cotton: it keeps sweat and makes you cold. Always go for breathable, quick-drying materials.
Mid-layers (insulation)
Take at least 2 fleece jackets or 2 wool sweaters, or one of each. You wear them over your base layers. These help keep the heat in and add extra warmth.
If it’s very cold, you can wear two fleeces at the same time, that’s fine too. Just make sure your clothes are not too tight, because tight layers don’t keep you warm as well.
Outer layers
You need a warm and comfortable jacket and pants to wear on top of your other layers. They should be thick enough to keep the cold out, and not too tight, it’s important to leave some space for the air and other clothes underneath.
If possible, choose something that is windproof. That helps a lot when it’s very cold or windy. Down jackets are great because they’re light but warm. Ski pants work well too.
👉 Good to know: You can often rent a winter suit (jacket + pants or full snowsuit) from tour companies or local shops in Lapland. That way, you don’t need to buy expensive gear just for one trip.
Winter accessories, what you really need
Warm hat
A good hat is essential. If your head isn’t warm, you’ll feel cold all over. Choose a wool hat that covers your ears, or even better, a chapka (fur-lined hat with ear flaps). If you’re cold, add a hood over your hat. It really helps.
Neck warmer or balaclava
A scarf is not practical. Take a soft neck warmer or a balaclava to cover your neck and part of your face. It’s easier to wear and protects better from the wind.
Waterproof mittens
Mittens are warmer than gloves because your fingers stay together. Try to find waterproof ones to keep your hands dry. If it’s very cold, you can add thin glove liners inside (optional, but useful).
Socks – wear two pairs
Always wear two pairs of socks:
- A thin wool sock (first layer)
- A thick wool sock (on top)
This keeps your feet warm and dry. Never use cotton socks — they keep sweat and make you cold.
Footwear
If you’re joining outdoor activities, boots are often provided by the tour company, check before you pack.
If you need your own boots, choose insulated snow boots that are:
- Comfortable
- Have a thick sole (this helps to keep the cold from reaching your feet)
- Not too tight : leave space for two pairs of socks
👉 It’s a good idea to choose 1 to 2 sizes bigger than usual
The best boots for Lapland are:
- Sorel boots : warm, strong, great grip (→ affiliate link here)
- Kamik boots : a cheaper but very good option (→ affiliate link here too)
Avoid city-style winter boots or anything without good insulation or grip — they won’t be warm enough for Arctic conditions.
Useful extras
- Headlamp or flashlight (especially useful in December-January when daylight is limited)
- Hand and foot warmers (this brand is very good)
- Sunglasses (for snowy glare in March/April)
- Backpack for day trips (with space for water/snacks/camera)
- Swimsuit (yes! For saunas or hotel spas)
Toiletries & skincare
You don’t need many products in Lapland, but the air is very cold and very dry, so it can make your skin uncomfortable.
Bring a rich, nourishing cream to protect your face. It’s important that the cream does not contain water, or it could make your skin feel colder.
Good options include:
You can use them on your face and hands, especially before going outside.
Electronics & documents
- Portable power bank
- Cold weather drains phone batteries very fast. A power bank is useful for charging your phone during the day.
- Travel insurance details
- Always bring a copy (digital or paper) of your travel insurance in case of emergency.
- Offline maps or downloaded confirmations
- The mobile network is very good in Lapland, even in small towns or remote areas. But it’s still a good idea to download offline maps and save your bookings or tickets in case of no signal or phone issues.
What to Pack for Lapland – Kids
Packing for kids is similar to adults: it’s all about layers. But for little ones, comfort and ease are just as important — especially when it’s cold and they need help getting dressed.
Base layers
Pack 2 or 3 sets of thermal underwear (top and bottom). I love Icebreaker products
Merino wool is the best — it’s soft, warm and keeps kids dry. Avoid cotton.
Mid-layers
Bring fleece jackets or wool jumpers.
For toddlers and younger children, fleece onesies are a great option. They’re easy to put on and super cozy. Take 2 options, in case one gets wet or dirty.
Outerwear
For most winter activities, kids will get a snowsuit and boots from the tour company.
But if not, bring a warm waterproof snowsuit (a one-piece is warmer and easier than jacket + pants). Make sure it’s roomy enough to wear over other layers.
Accessories
- Mittens: Always better than gloves — they keep fingers warmer. Take waterproof and insulated mittens. You can add thin gloves inside for extra warmth.
- Neck warmer or balaclava: Avoid scarves (bulky and unsafe). A soft fleece neck warmer or balaclava is best.
- Warm hat with ear flaps: Like adults, kids lose heat through the head. Choose a hat that stays in place.
- Wool or thermal socks: Always wear two pairs — a thin wool sock, then a thick one on top.
👉 Tip: For young children, choose mittens that clip together or fasten at the wrist — they’re harder to lose and stay on better.
Practical Tips Before You Pack
- Layering is key: 3 layers (thermal, insulating, outer) work better than one bulky item.
- Check with your tour provider: Many supply outer gear (boots, suits, mittens), ask what’s included.
- Drying gear: Most accommodations in Lapland have drying cabinets or rooms. You don’t need fresh layers for every day.
- Don’t forget cabin luggage: Sometimes, checked luggage doesn’t arrive with your flight (it’s rare, but it happens). Pack a few essentials in your carry-on (base layers, underwear, warm socks) just in case.
- Airline luggage: Winter clothes take space, consider packing cubes or vacuum bags to compress bulky items.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let the cold scare you! With the right gear, winter in Lapland is magical. If you’re not sure whether to buy or rent, keep in mind that most outerwear is provided for safaris, so you mainly need base and mid-layers plus accessories.
If you’re travelling with kids, they’ll need a bit more patience and help to stay warm, but they’ll love the snow adventures just as much as you.
Ready to pack your bags? ❄️