What to Pack for a Winter Adventure in Lapland

Planning a trip to Finnish Lapland? Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, snowmobiling through frozen forests, or meeting reindeer up close, being properly prepared for the Arctic cold makes all the difference.

This guide covers what to pack for Lapland, including smart layering tips, must-have gear, and what’s provided on our guided tours. The weather here can be extreme, but with the right clothing and a few small essentials, you’ll stay warm, dry, and ready for anything.

Essential Packing List for Lapland

When it comes to Lapland winter gear, think warmth, windproofing, and layering. Here’s what to bring:

Clothing

Thermal base layers (top & bottom – merino wool recommended)
Warm mid-layers (wool or fleece)
Insulated winter jacket & pants (windproof & waterproof)
Wool socks – bring multiple pairs
Winter boots (insulated and waterproof)
Liner gloves (thin gloves to wear under mittens)
Thick mittens or gloves
Hat/beanie that covers your ears
Neck warmer or balaclava
Snow goggles or sunglasses (especially for sunny spring days)

Extras You’ll Be Glad You Brought

🔋 Spare battery pack– cold drains phone and camera batteries fast

🎒 A small backpack for day trips and carrying extra layers

🧦 Extra socks (did we mention socks already?)

☀️ Sunscreen for your face – yes, even in winter! The sun reflects off the snow especially from February to April.

In Lapland, most people wear relaxed outdoor gear or comfy layers at their cabins and around town — think fleece hoodies and wool sweaters. But if you feel like dressing up for dinner or après-ski drinks, you absolutely can.

Layering Tips for Arctic Comfort

The key to staying warm is dressing in layers that trap heat and keep moisture away from your skin. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Base layer: Moisture-wicking thermals (no cotton!)
Mid-layer: Fleece, wool sweater, or light down jacket
Outer layer: Insulated, windproof, waterproof jacket and pants. When it is extremely cold, we recommend to wear your own outer layer underneath our thermal overall for extra warmth!
Accessories: Head, hands, and feet need the most protection – double up if needed!
Pro tip: Avoid too tight clothing, socks and gloves. Air circulation helps keep you warm.

Renting vs. Bringing Your Own Gear

If you don’t own high-performance winter gear, don’t worry — we’ve got you covered. On our tours, we provide:

Thermal overalls
Insulated boots
Balaclava
Helmet (for snowmobile tours)
Thick mittens and wool socks

This is often warmer than standard ski gear and included in your tour price. You’ll still need to bring your own base and mid-layers, but for the outer layer it’s all sorted on our end!

If you’re planning lots of outdoor activities beyond our guided tours, renting full winter clothing for your entire stay is a good option — especially if you’re traveling light.

Cold Weather Tips for Lapland

❄️ Temperatures in Lapland can drop below -30°C in mid-winter, but it’s often dry and manageable with the right gear.

🌞 Spring sun can be intense when reflecting on the snow — bring sunglasses and sunscreen.

🔋 Keep electronics in inner pockets close to the heat of your body to preserve battery life.

🧤 Bring a second pair of gloves or liners in case the first gets wet.

👣 Don’t underestimate the importance of warm, dry socks — bring more than you think you’ll need.

Packing right for Lapland means you’ll enjoy your time outdoors without worrying about the cold. Whether you’re joining a snowmobile tour, taking a husky ride, or just walking around snowy Levi, preparation is key.

Need help deciding what to bring and what we provide? Feel free to reach out when booking — we’re happy to help you plan your perfect Arctic adventure.

published: September 3, 2025