How to Prepare for Your Trip to Lapland? Practical Guide on Clothing, Gear & Accessories

How to dress right from the airport? What to pack in your suitcase? Which accessories are must-haves for your Lapland trip? And what about photography gear for the Northern Lights?

We’ve thought of everything!

Here are our practical tips to help you pack smart, forget nothing, and fully enjoy the magic of Lapland – stress-free.

---

Why good equipment is essential in Lapland?

Temperatures in Lapland can easily drop below –20°C (sometimes much lower with windchill). Even though the cold here is dry and feels different from Central Europe, proper clothing and gear are crucial for your safety and comfort.

👉 Good gear is not a luxury – it’s the condition for making your dream Lapland trip enjoyable.

---

4 reasons to prepare your gear properly

🔹 Practicality – Layering is key (thermal underwear, fleece, windproof & waterproof shell). Easy to adjust to weather changes and activities.

🔹 Comfort – Loose, breathable, and warm clothes keep you cozy without limiting your movement.

🔹 Well-being – Protect your skin from dry cold and wind, and keep your head, hands, and feet warm (merino hat, mittens, wool socks).

🔹 Peace of mind – With the right gear, you can focus on what matters: experiencing the magic of Lapland.

---

Dressing for the airport arrival

Airports like Rovaniemi, Ivalo, or Kittilä are small – you’ll be outside in freezing air within minutes. Winter temperatures can drop between –10°C and –30°C right at arrival.

👉 That’s why you should already wear layers on the plane and get dressed before landing.

Winter arrival outfit in Lapland:

• Thermal base layer (preferably merino wool, avoid cotton).
• Warm fleece or light down jacket as a mid-layer.
• Insulated winter jacket with hood, wind- and waterproof.
• Ski pants or insulated overpants – never jeans!
• Warm winter boots like Sorel Caribou – waterproof, anti-slip, insulated.
• Merino wool socks.
• Wool hat, scarf/neck warmer, face mask if very cold.
• Gloves: thin liners + insulated mittens. Always bring a spare pair.
• Sunglasses – essential against snow glare.

---

Must-have accessories in your Lapland packing list

• Thermos bottle (normal bottles freeze).
• Hydrating cream & lip balm without water + sunscreen (snow reflects UV).
• Extra gloves & socks to stay dry after activities.
• Hand & foot warmers.
• Small backpack for day trips.
• Swimsuit & flip-flops – for the Finnish sauna experience.
• Mosquito repellent (summer).
• Headlamp with red light – for Northern Lights watching without ruining night vision.
• Power bank (cold drains batteries fast).
• Small first aid kit: plasters, painkillers, antiseptic, survival blanket.

---

Photography gear for Northern Lights

• Camera with manual mode (to control ISO & exposure).
• Tripod – absolutely essential.
• Wide-angle lens (best for auroras).
• Spare batteries (keep them warm in an inside pocket).
• Memory cards, microfiber cloth.
• Drone (optional).

⚠️ Important tip: Never bring your camera directly from freezing outdoors into a warm cabin. Let it adjust in a cooler room first to avoid condensation.

---

Summer in Lapland

• Layered clothing (breathable T-shirt, light sweater, waterproof jacket).
• Comfortable trekking shoes.
• Mosquito protection (especially June–July).
• Lightweight fleece for evenings.

---

Final tips before flying to Lapland

• Always pack a small emergency bag (thermal underwear, socks, gloves, hat, warm boots) in case your main luggage is delayed at the airport.
• Print all important travel documents (passport, tickets, insurance). Cold can kill your phone battery.
• Pack for flexibility: weather in Lapland can change in minutes.

---

Conclusion

A trip to Lapland is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure – but to truly enjoy its magic, from husky sledding to chasing the Northern Lights, you need to be properly prepared.

👉 With the right clothing, gear, and accessories, you’ll enjoy comfort, safety, and unforgettable memories under the Arctic skies.