How to pack for a winter holiday in Lapland
Packing for Lapland is less about bringing more and more about bringing the right things. This guide shares practical advice on winter travel, luggage and cold-weather comfort, alongside links to detailed snow clothing checklists.
A winter holiday in Lapland is a truly special experience, from snow-covered forests and open fires to reindeer encounters and Northern Lights nights. While accommodation, transport and public buildings are warm and well heated, fully experiencing Lapland means spending time outdoors in Arctic conditions.
The better prepared you are, the more comfortable and enjoyable your holiday will be. Before departure, we provide comprehensive packing information, and many Lapland packages include winter outerwear or offer it for hire. Still, it is important to understand how to pack smartly and use your gear effectively throughout the day.
For a detailed breakdown of what to wear in snow and how to layer correctly, we recommend reading our dedicated guide to Snow Clothing Essentials.
And if you’re new to winter travel, also read our guide to travelling in Scandinavia during winter to understand what conditions are really like.
How do you stay warm when moving between indoors and outdoors in Lapland?
Travel in Lapland involves frequent transitions between warm indoor spaces and freezing outdoor temperatures. Buses, trains and buildings are heated, but you may step straight into snow or icy air multiple times a day.
To make this easier:
- Keep essential winter items easily accessible
- Choose jackets with large outer pockets for gloves, hats and neck warmers
- Carry a small backpack with compartments for quick access
- Avoid gear that takes time or dexterity to put on in the cold
Having a simple system for adding and removing layers makes a noticeable difference, especially during short stops and excursions.
What sort of luggage should you bring for a Lapland winter trip?
A winter trip to Lapland does require proper winter clothing, so your luggage may feel fuller than it would for a summer holiday. This is completely normal.
The key is not to pack less warm clothing, but to avoid packing unnecessary extras. Most travellers wear the same outer layers every day and rotate base layers underneath, rather than changing full outfits. Evening clothing is rarely used, as days are active and practical rather than dressy.
One well-organised suitcase per person, combined with a small daypack, is usually more practical than multiple bags. Snowy paths, icy surfaces and multi-stop itineraries can make heavy or numerous bags awkward to manage.
Focus on warmth, layers and comfort rather than variety. Accommodation is well heated and often equipped with drying cupboards, making it easy to reuse winter layers throughout your stay.
Do you need ice grips for Lapland?
Ice grips that fit over your boots can be extremely useful in Lapland, particularly when black ice forms on streets and footpaths. While municipalities put significant effort into clearing snow and ice, conditions can change quickly.
We strongly recommend:
- Buying ice grips on arrival, not in advance
- Assessing local conditions before deciding if you need them
- Purchasing them from local supermarkets or hardware stores
Ice conditions vary from week to week, and whether you need grips also depends on the quality and grip of your boots. They are inexpensive, easy to find locally and can greatly improve stability and confidence if conditions are icy.
What advice would experienced travellers give for packing for Lapland?
Recent travellers often share practical insights that are easy to overlook when packing.
Some useful tips include:
Campfire smoke
Many days involve campfires, which are a highlight of Lapland travel. Outerwear in particular can absorb smoke smells. Dryer sheets can help freshen clothing before packing for the return journey.
Reindeer fur
Reindeer pelts are commonly used for seating around campfires. They are warm and atmospheric, but the fur sticks to clothing easily. A sticky lint roller is very handy.
Pack less than you think
Underlayers and outerwear matter far more than evening outfits. Most travellers wear what they put on in the morning all day. Lapland is practical rather than glamorous, and comfort always wins. Fleece-lined jeans were mentioned as an unexpectedly useful item for casual walking.
What are roads and infrastructure like in Lapland in winter?
Winter in Scandinavia operates with impressive efficiency. Centuries of living and working in cold climates have resulted in systems designed to function reliably in snow and ice.
- Airports rarely close due to snowfall
- Roads and public transport are well maintained
- Buildings are designed for warmth and comfort
Cold weather is a normal part of daily life in Lapland. Rather than worrying about the temperature, dressing appropriately allows you to relax and enjoy the experience.
What is the most important packing advice for Lapland?
Preparation and simplicity are key.
- Focus on layers and warmth
- Keep essentials easy to access
- Avoid unnecessary items
- Pack smart rather than packing more
If you have any questions about your winter holiday, our Nordic destination specialists are always happy to help.
For a more detailed breakdown of what to wear in snow and how to layer correctly, we recommend reading our dedicated guide to Snow Clothing Essentials.