Winter Packing List for Lapland

(Villa Lapland Travel Guide)

When visiting Lapland in winter, proper clothing and gear are essential to stay warm, comfortable, and safe — especially when chasing the Northern Lights, enjoying a husky safari, or relaxing in your private hot tub at Villa Lapland.
Here’s the complete Lapland winter packing list to help you prepare.

1. Essential Winter Clothing

Lapland temperatures in winter can drop to −35 °C or lower. Dress in layers — that’s the key to staying warm. One don´t need rental overalls or rental winter clothings. Don´t be scared about the temperatures: It´s just cold. 

Base Layer (Next to Skin)

• Thermal underwear (merino wool recommended)

• Long-sleeved thermal tops and bottoms

• Warm thermal socks (bring several pairs)

Mid Layer (Insulation)

• Fleece jackets or merino wool sweaters

• Insulated trousers or lined hiking pants

• Optional: lightweight down jacket for extra warmth

• Pullovers also helps

Outer Layer (Weather Protection)

• Waterproof & windproof winter jacket (down or synthetic insulation)

• Waterproof ski/snow pants

• Insulated winter boots

  • make sure they´re rated to at least -30°C

  • Choose boots with a thick, grippy sole profile — flat soles are dangerously slippery on ice

  • Consider removable liners for easier drying

2. Accessories to Stay Warm

• Wool or fleece hats (covering ears)

• Neck gaiter or thermal balaclava

• Waterproof & insulated gloves or mittens (bring two pairs)

• Glove liners for extra insulation

• Thermal insoles or heated boot pads

• Hand and foot warmers (single-use or rechargeable)

3. Gear for Northern Lights & Outdoor Activities

• Headlamp with red-light mode (essential for Aurora photography)

• Thermal flask for hot drinks during excursions

• Sunglasses — yes, even in Lapland! The low winter sun reflects off the snow.

• Backpack (20–30 L) for day trips

• Camera with tripod if you plan to photograph the Aurora Borealis

• Fully charged mobile phone (YES, WE MEAN IT!)
  • in freezing temperatures, battery life drops dramatically
    
  • A working phone can be vital in case of emergency
  • keep your mobile close to your body to protect it from the cold

• optional: power bank (keep it close to your body to protect it from the cold)

4. Wellness & Personal Care

• High-SPF sunscreen (yes, even in winter)

• Lip balm with UV protection

• Moisturiser for face, hands and nose (cold air is extremely dry)

• Medications and personal hygiene products

5. Relaxation & Villa Comfort

• Swimsuit for the private indoor jacuzzi and sauna sessions

• Lightweight lounge wear for evenings indoors

• Books, e-readers or travel journals for cosy nights

6. Optional Extras

• Thermal sleeping socks for extreme cold

• Portable power bank for phones and cameras

• Binoculars for wildlife spotting

• Waterproof phone pouch for snow excursions

Packing Tips for Lapland

• Think layers, not bulk: Three good layers keep you warmer than one thick jacket. One don´t need a rental overall or rental gear.

• Wool beats cotton: Wool and synthetics keep you warm even when damp; cotton doesn’t.

• Test your gear at home: Make sure boots, gloves, and thermals are comfortable before arrival.

Quick Checklist