Packing list for Northern Lights in the arctic region of Norway

Norwegian winters, especially in the north, are famous for the low temperatures, sometimes as low as -25° Celsius (-13° F). 

In Norway, they have a saying:
‘There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing’. Here you will read what to do. Pack smart!

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)(/))))))   Northern Norway has a varied climate and during the winter the average temperature is around -6 °C. However, when you are going to travel there to experience Arctic adventures or chase the Northern Lights, you need to expect temperatures that can range from -25 °C to +5 °C.

Here are some guidelines about how to dress in the winter:

Essential items:

  • Woolen underwear (long johns) (*)
  • Woolen jersey (*)
  • A fleece jacket or woolen sweater (*)
  • A pair of wind and waterproof trousers (ski pants suffice) (*)
  • A wind and waterproof jacket (*)
  • A set of wind and waterproof gloves or mittens
  • A woolen hat
  • A woolen scarf
  • Waterproof hiking shoes/boots (with thick soles) (**)
  • Thick woolen socks
  • Swimwear (for use in sauna or hot tub)

Strongly recommended items:

  • A pair of ‘brodder’ (***)
  • A pair of slippers (****)
  • Moisturizing cream
  • Moisturizing lip balm
  • A pair of woolen insoles (*****)

(*) We recommend to wear several layers of clothing with the woolen layer as close to your skin as possible. If you wear several layers of clothing it is easier to regulate your temperature.

(**) When selecting shoes for your trip please make sure that they are:

  • wide enough to fit thick woolen socks and possibly woolen insoles.
  • aren’t too tight since this will result in cold feet.
  • waterproof.

There are many good boots for sale for Arctic conditions. However other hiking boots that meet the aforementioned criteria will also suffice.

(***) ‘Brodder’ is the Norwegian word for spikes that you attach to the bottom of your shoe. This is done to increase grip in slippery conditions. They can be bought in shoe shops, pharmacies (apoteket) or sports stores. They come in different brands varying in price however the ones that cost around a 100 to 150 NOK (10-15 USD) will be perfectly adequate.

(****) We recommend bringing slippers to wear indoors at your accommodation since it is often not allowed to wear outdoor shoes inside.

(*****) We would also like to recommend woolen insoles for your shoes. They will insulate your feet even further. However, you have to make sure that your shoes don’t get to tight as a result.