[UPDATED IN OCTOBER 2024]

As soon as I booked my trip to Lapland (Finland), I started panicking about what to wear in Lapland in winter. The weather in Lapland is no joke! I had never been in a place below 0 °C (32 °F) and the forecasts predicted temperatures below -20 °C (-4°F).

Putting together a packing list for Lapland seemed like a nightmare at first glance! I felt lost in the middle of so much information available on the subject.

I was quite lucky during my trip (most days the temperature was around -10 °C/14 °F). However, in the last two days, it dropped to -26 °C/-15 °F, with a real feel of -31 °C/-24 °F. That’s when things started to get serious. I really had to put into practice everything I’d read about 😉.

So, I want this post to be as useful as possible so you don’t feel lost when learning about what to pack for Lapland in winter.

After much reading, I concluded that everyone agrees on one thing. The secret weapon to survive the extreme cold and for your Lapland packing list is layers. Layers are important for many reasons (I’ll get that later)! But, for example, buildings are usually very warm inside, so be prepared to take off/put on clothes quite often.

Another thing everyone seems to agree with is that your packing list for Lapland should have clothes with the right materials. If the fabrics of our clothes get wet, you’ll definitely regret it since you’ll get cold faster. That’s exactly what you want to avoid 😉.

In Lapland, the extreme cold isn’t just a background setting—it’s part of the experience. Knowing what to wear in Lapland in winter, can make or break your trip.

Almost every activity, from snowmobiling to reindeer sleigh rides to Northern Lights hunting, happens outdoors. So, knowing how to dress for extreme cold becomes essential.

Since I hadn’t experienced this kind of low temperatures before, I had almost no extreme cold weather clothes. Most likely, you’ll also need to buy some items for this Lapland trip. So, I’ll also be sharing everything I took with me to survive the cold weather.

💡 EXTRA TIP: If you don’t plan to use these clothes in your daily life, opt for polyester garments. It’s cheaper, lasts longer and dries faster than merino wool. The great advantage of merino wool has to do with its breathability and greater resistance to odours.

💡 EXTRA TIP: For temperatures until -15 °C/5 °F, these 3 layers are enough. For lower temperatures, add a 4th layer between the 1st and 2nd layers. A thinner and tighter wool jumper did the job for me 😊.

Finally, it is important to make sure you have a warm winter jacket that insulates you well from the wind. This jacket should also be waterproof so that you stay dry on snowy days.

PRO TIP: The longer the jacket, the warmer the legs will be. Plus, a hood can be very useful to keep your head warm (even if you wear a beanie). I know some tips on this Lapland winter packing list seem excessive, but believe me – they are not.

Winter in Lapland can be brutal and should prepare for it! I’m not trying to scare you, but it’s a wonderful destination. I just want you to know what to expect so you make the most of your trip to Lapland.

I honestly believe the outer jacket I bought was my most precious purchase for this trip. I went to Decathlon and got the warmest jacket available. It was a lifesaver!

💡 EXTRA TIP: In this case, it makes more sense to invest in the 1st layer trousers. These will be the only ones in direct contact with the skin. For a trip of 5 to 7 days, one pair of snow trousers should do the job. For temperatures below -15 °C/5 °F, add another pair of thermal trousers or some normal tights. 

Mittens allow the fingers to be closer together, which makes them warmer.

💡 EXTRA TIP: With temperatures this low, it is almost an impossible mission to have your hands exposed to the cold without any protection. If you plan to use a camera or a smartphone, buy a base pair of gloves that allows you to use smartphones. You’ll thank me when you don’t have to remove the gloves when you want to take some photos.

💡 EXTRA TIP: For days when the thermometer drops below -15 °C/5 °F, add an extra pair of wool or thermal socks to ensure extra warmth.

Finally, it is also important to ensure that we wear suitable footwear. You should go for boots with good traction for snow, waterproof and, if possible, carded for extra warmth.

It is important to ensure that the sole is made of 100% waterproof materials (rubber, for example). Plus, the sole should also be thick enough to dull contact with the cold ground. I went to Decathlon once again and opted for a pair from Quechua.

💡 EXTRA TIP: With the number of socks you need to wear, you should buy boots 2 to 3 sizes up from your usual size. If the foot is too tight (and the blood barely circulates), your feet will get colder quickly.

Plus, despite not always being necessary, consider buying a neck warmer. This can help you protect your nose, which, most likely, is exposed to the cold. Look for neck warmers made from merino wool, which absorbs well the air that comes in and out when we breathe.

You can also invest in some warmers that provide heat to the feet, hands or body. These warmers are small sachets that you shake and put inside your boots, gloves or jacket. They radiate heat for up to 5 hours. I bought some Decathlon heating pads.

There are both disposable and reusable options. Disposable ones are super convenient, while reusable warmers are more eco-friendly. They’re particularly handy for stationary winter activities, like watching the Northern Lights, or whenever you need an extra boost of warmth.

Merino wool and synthetic fabrics like polyester are ideal here. Merino wool is breathable, highly effective at insulating, and resists odours, so you can re-wear it if needed. Polyester is another good option and tends to be more affordable while also drying quickly.

The biggest advice I can give you is to avoid cotton. It retains moisture, which can make you feel colder faster.

Fleece is lightweight, breathable, and offers great warmth without too much bulk, making it a popular choice for active days.

Down is a powerful insulator and extremely warm for its weight, although it’s best to keep it dry, as it loses insulation when wet.

Wool is also highly insulating and keeps you warm even if it gets a bit damp, making it versatile for fluctuating conditions in Lapland.

Thinner woollen socks (the higher the percentage of wool, the better. I bought mine at a Portuguese store (Pé de Meia) but you can find some in your home country.

High-quality outer layers with sealed seams offer maximum protection, helping you stay warm.

Putting together a packing list for Lapland that includes each of these fabric types can help you layer effectively. You’ll stay comfortable no matter how low the temperature drops.

This method is especially handy where fast changes between outdoor and indoor temperatures are common.

Pack one or two base layers for each day but limit bulkier items like jumpers or ski trousers to what’s necessary. Layering lets you stay warm without overpacking.

Making these essentials easy to reach can make all the difference when you’re stepping off a warm plane into the frosty Lapland air.

With these efficient packing tips, you’ll be set for your Lapland adventure without overstuffing your bag.

PS: I’m usually all about packing light and travelling with just a backpack. But, for Lapland, that’s almost mission impossible! With so many bulky essentials needed for the extreme weather, fitting everything into a small bag just doesn’t cut it. This trip definitely requires a little more space.

A high-capacity power bank can keep your devices charged throughout long days of exploring.

Extra batteries are also a must, as they’ll run down quickly in the cold.

This lotion from Weleda was a real lifesaver. I applied it every night on my face and it didn’t even get dry even with the freezing temperatures in Lapland. I also applied it several times a day on my hands, to always ensure maximum hydration 😊.

A compact headlamp or flashlight is invaluable for navigating icy paths or even adjusting your camera settings. If you’re booking tours to do these activities, you won’t probably need these though since most companies will provide these essentials.

Packing these essentials ensures you’re well-prepared, allowing you to focus on enjoying all that Lapland’s winter magic has to offer!

The wind chill can make it feel even lower, which is why dressing for extreme cold with proper layers is crucial. Always check the local weather forecast before your trip to be prepared.

To avoid overbuying, focus on key items like thermal clothing for extreme cold and a quality winter jacket. For base layers and accessories, more budget-friendly brands, like Decathlon, offer effective options. I bought most of the things there.

Alternatively, consider renting larger or high-cost items, such as snow boots and ski jackets, which can save money and space.

Many Lapland tour providers offer rentals for essentials like snow boots, snowsuits, and gloves. Renting allows you to pack lighter. Plus, it ensures you have high-quality, weather-appropriate items without the full expense.

Just be sure to check availability and reserve items in advance if possible.

Three layers are enough: a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer.

On extremely cold days, you may want to add an extra thin layer between your base and mid-layer. Take this into account particularly for outdoor activities or prolonged exposure.

A cabin-size suitcase should be enough, as it allows room for layers and gear without overcrowding. Either way, consider using compression bags to save space and keep items organised. Most winter clothing tends to be bulky.

Cold weather drains batteries quickly, so pack extras and keep them close to your body for warmth. While not mandatory, this equipment will make a big difference for anyone hoping to get clear night-time photos. If you have a camera but don’t know how to photograph the Northern Lights, book a Northern Lights Photography Tour.

Stick to hydrating products, like cream-based foundations, and bring lip balm and moisturiser to keep your skin comfortable in the dry air. With a few adjustments, you can keep your makeup looking fresh, even in Lapland’s cold!

With these tips, you’ll stay warm and fully enjoy the snowy beauty of Lapland’s winter wonderland! If you want more tips, check out my ultimate guide to visit the Finnish Lapland during winter.

If you have questions or more packing tips, I’d love to hear from you. Drop a comment below to share your thoughts and help fellow travellers get ready for their Lapland adventure!

Disclaimer: this post may contain some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you buy something through my links. This doesn’t represent any additional cost to you and you’ll be supporting my work here on the blog😊