What to Pack for a Winter Trip to Lapland

Every packing list for Lapland you've seen online was probably written by someone who visited once. We live here. Here's what actually matters, and what you can skip.

The Layering System That Works

Forget buying a full Arctic outfit before you arrive. Most activity providers give you thermal overalls, boots, and gloves. What you need is a good base.

Layer 1: Base Layer

• Merino wool top and leggings: Not cotton. Cotton gets damp and stays cold. Merino breathes and stays warm even when slightly wet.
• One set is enough for a short trip. Two if you're staying a week.

Layer 2: Mid Layer

• Fleece jacket or wool sweater: Nothing fancy. A regular fleece from any outdoor store works fine.
• Fleece-lined leggings or soft-shell pants for walking around town.

Layer 3: Outer Layer

• A proper winter jacket: Waterproof, windproof, with a hood. Doesn't need to be rated to -40°C. Activity providers supply the heavy stuff.
• Wind-proof pants: For walking around town on cold days.

Footwear: The Most Important Thing

This is where most tourists get it wrong.

• Warm, waterproof boots with good grip: The streets in Rovaniemi can be icy. Sorel, Columbia, or similar winter boots with thick soles.
• Ice grips (liukuesteet): Cheap clip-on spikes for your boots. Available at any local shop for around 10–15 euros. These are a game-changer on icy pavements.
• Wool socks: 2–3 pairs. Your feet will thank you.

Accessories

• A warm beanie that covers your ears
• A neck gaiter or buff: More versatile than a scarf
• Thin gloves + warm mittens: Thin gloves for using your phone, mittens for warmth. Mittens are warmer than gloves because your fingers share heat.

What You Don't Need

• Thermal underwear from expensive outdoor brands: Basic merino is fine
• Hand warmers: Nice but unnecessary with proper mittens
• Snow goggles: You're not climbing Everest
• Multiple heavy layers: The thermal overalls from activity providers are incredibly warm

Electronics in the Cold

• Phone battery dies fast below -10°C. Keep your phone in an inner pocket, close to your body.
• Bring a power bank: Keep it warm in your pocket too.
• Camera batteries: Carry a spare in your pocket and swap when the cold one dies.

Our Packing Checklist

Bring:

• 1–2 merino base layer sets
• 1 fleece/wool mid layer
• Winter jacket with hood
• Winter boots with grip
• Ice grips
• 2–3 wool socks
• Beanie, neck gaiter, thin gloves, warm mittens
• Power bank
• Lip balm (the cold air is dry)
• Moisturiser (your skin will dry out)

Skip:

• Snowshoes (provided on tours)
• Heavy Arctic gear (provided on tours)
• Multiple outfits for different activities

Pack light, dress smart, and let the activity providers handle the rest.