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This Lapland winter packing list is all about staying warm, dry, and comfortable while still being able to move freely for outdoor activities like huskysledding, reindeer sleigh rides, and chasing the Northern Lights. The Arctic temperatures can drop well below freezing, and with snow-covered landscapes and long nights, being properly equipped will make your trip much more enjoyable.
After spending a week in Finnish Lapland, we learned exactly what to pack (and what we wish we’d brought) to stay warm and enjoy the adventure. This Lapland winter packing list includes everything you need for an Arctic trip, from essential layers and gear to the best camera equipment for photographing the Northern Lights.
Table of Contents
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How Cold is Lapland in Winter?
To understand how to pack for a winter trip to Finland, and specifically Lapland, you need to first understand the weather! Winter in Lapland lasts from November to April, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to -30°C (23°F to -22°F). When we say it is EXTREMELY cold in winter in Lapland, these are the temperatures we mean! The coldest months are December through February, with short daylight hours and deep snow. While those temperatures might sound extreme, proper layering makes all the difference.
My Head-to-Toe Lapland Winter Outfit
Here is everything I wore as a typical outfit for outside activities during our winter Finnish Lapland trip in February! I usually get cold pretty easily, but this system kept me fairly comfortable even during longer periods outside.
- Warm headband
- Warm hat
- Scarf or warm gaiter – I am obsessed with this one. It is so soft!
- Wool Base layer top – Kari Traa is my favorite base layer brand for women. The fit is perfect and the styles are so cute.
- Wool Base layer bottom
- Midlayer fleece top
- Fleece-lined pants – These pants from AKHG are so comfy. Tim and I each have a pair and we actually lounge around the house in them!
- Snow pants – These are one of my favorite affordable Amazon finds!
- Warm wool socks – I love Darn Tough because they are warm, I didn’t get blisters, and
- Wool underwear
- Snow boot
- Waterproof winter coat
- Warm gloves
Lapland Winter Packing List Details: Clothing & Layers
The key to dressing for Lapland is layering, which helps trap heat and allows you to adjust depending on activity levels. You’ll want three main layers:
- Base Layer – Moisture-wicking to keep you dry.
- Mid Layer – Insulating to trap body heat.
- Outer Layer – Waterproof and windproof to protect against the elements.
1. Base Layer (Thermals) – Moisture-Wicking & Warm
Your base layer is your first line of defense against the cold. Look for thermal, moisture-wicking materials that keep sweat away from your skin.
✔ Merino wool thermal top & leggings (avoid cotton)
✔ Silk or merino wool socks (thin but warm)
✔ Moisture-wicking underwear
Recommended Brands: Smartwool, Kari Traa
2. Mid Layer – Insulation for Warmth
The mid-layer traps heat and keeps you warm even in subzero temperatures.
✔ Fleece or wool sweater
✔ Insulated down or synthetic puffer jacket
✔ Fleece-lined leggings or softshell pants
3. Outer Layer – Windproof & Waterproof Protection
Lapland is covered in snow, so having fully waterproof and windproof outer layers is essential.
✔ Insulated parka or ski jacket (rated for extreme cold)
✔ Waterproof ski pants or snow pants
✔ Waterproof, insulated gloves or mittens
✔ Neck gaiter or fleece-lined balaclava
✔ Thermal hat (beanie with fleece lining)
Pro Tip: If you’re doing snowmobiling or husky sledding, ask your tour operator if they provide goggles or ski glasses to protect your eyes from wind and snow. If not, consider bringing a pair from home!
Winter Boots for Lapland
✔ Waterproof, insulated boots (rated for at least -20°C/-4°F)
✔ Thick wool socks (bring extra pairs!)
✔ Thermal insoles for added warmth
Accessories & Must-Have Gear for Lapland
Beyond clothing, a few key gear essentials will make your trip to Lapland much more comfortable.
- Hand & foot warmers – Essential for long outdoor activities.
- Swimsuit – A must-have for Finnish saunas.
- Power bank – Cold temperatures drain phone batteries fast.
- Headlamp – Winter in Lapland means long nights, and if you’re out chasing the Northern Lights, a headlamp is useful.
- Sunglasses or ski goggles – Snow reflects sunlight, even on cloudy days.
- Waterproof daypack – For carrying extra layers, snacks, and a camera.
- Lip balm & moisturizer – Arctic air is dry, and your skin will thank you.
Camera Gear for Photographing the Northern Lights
If you’re hoping to capture the Aurora Borealis, a smartphone alone won’t cut it. You’ll need a camera with manual settings to adjust the shutter speed, ISO, and focus.
✔ DSLR or mirrorless camera (Sony, Canon, or Nikon)
✔ Wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or lower for best results)
✔ Sturdy tripod (essential for long-exposure shots)
✔ Extra batteries (cold weather drains batteries quickly)
✔ Remote shutter release (to avoid camera shake)
Pro Tip: Use a lens with a low f-stop (f/2.8 or lower) to let in more light, and set your ISO between 800-3200 for the best Northern Lights photos.
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What Not to Pack for Lapland
🚫 Jeans – Denim absorbs moisture and stays cold and wet.
🚫 Cotton layers – Stick to wool or synthetic fabrics for warmth.
🚫 Regular sneakers – They won’t work in deep snow.
Do You Need to Rent Winter Gear in Lapland?
If you don’t want to invest in extreme cold-weather gear, many hotels and tour companies offer rental winter clothing, including thermal jumpsuits, gloves, boots, and hats. We found that most places provided warm outer layers for activities like:
✔ Husky sledding
✔ Snowmobiling
✔ Ice fishing
✔ Reindeer sleigh rides
Final Thoughts: What to Pack for Lapland in Winter
Packing for Lapland is all about staying warm, dry, and comfortable, and layering is key. The right thermal base layers, insulated outerwear, and warm accessories will make a huge difference in how much you enjoy your trip.
After a week in Lapland, we can confidently say that hand warmers, a good down jacket, and the right boots were lifesavers. If you’re heading to the Arctic, pack smart and embrace the adventure—it’s one of the most unforgettable places on earth!
Check Out Our Finland Guides
- 7 Day Finnish Lapland Itinerary
- What It’s REALLY Like Sleeping in a Snow Hotel
