What to pack for a trip to Lapland
Short answer: Lapland in winter means temperatures from minus 10 to minus 30 degrees, short days and long nights with the northern lights. Pack using the layering principle with a soft, close fitting base layer, warm mid layers, a windproof shell and plenty of dry socks.
The cold in Lapland
From December to March the temperature in Lapland is usually between minus 10 and minus 25 degrees, and in cold spells it can drop below minus 30. Around Christmas the sun barely rises above the horizon, and daylight lasts only a few hours. The air is dry, and still cold feels less biting than damp cold, but the wind on a snowmobile or dog sled can make the felt temperature much lower. Pack for extreme cold, and add one more warm layer than you think you need.
Layering is essential
Next to the skin you need a close fitting layer that moves moisture away, so you do not get cold from your own sweat. Merino wool is the classic choice, and viscose from bamboo can be worn as a soft layer under wool on less active days. In the middle you wear fleece or thick wool, and on the outside a windproof jacket and trousers. See women's long-sleeved bamboo T-shirt for a thin, soft layer next to the skin.
Feet and hands
Feet and hands get cold first. Wear warm winter boots with plenty of room for your toes, and choose wool socks of a suitable thickness. Boots that are too tight make your feet colder. Under the wool, a pair of thin, short socks can add a layer and help keep your feet dry. Take a look at bamboo footies for women. Thin gloves under thick mittens work best, so you can photograph the northern lights without freezing your fingers.
Activities and rented gear
Many tour operators lend out thermal suits, boots and mittens for snowmobiling, dog sledding and reindeer safaris. That is often the easiest solution, but you still need your own base and mid layers. Take your time getting dressed, and take layers off indoors before you start to sweat. If you have problems with circulation, your heart or Raynaud's syndrome, talk to your doctor before you travel.
Sleeping in a cabin, hotel or glass igloo
Cabins and hotels in Lapland are well heated, and many have a sauna. Indoors it is therefore warm, and light nightwear is enough. In glass igloos or snow hotels it is different, as you sleep in a warm sleeping bag and wear long, soft layers. See bamboo sleepwear for women, and choose long sleeves and legs if you will be sleeping somewhere cold.
Packing list for one week
For a week in Lapland you can manage with three base layers for the upper body, two pairs of long johns, two fleeces or wool jumpers, a winter jacket, windproof trousers, a hat, a neck gaiter, thin gloves and mittens, winter boots, five pairs of wool socks, thin socks, underwear, nightwear and swimwear for the sauna. Add sunglasses against snow glare and a rich face cream to protect against cold and wind.
Frequently asked questions
How cold is Lapland in winter
Usually minus 10 to minus 25 degrees, and below minus 30 in cold spells.
Do you need to bring your own thermal clothing
Many operators lend thermal suits and boots, but you should bring your own base and mid layers.
When can you see the northern lights in Lapland
From late August to early April on clear, dark nights.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
