Welcome to the magical world of Lapland, Finland, where winter transforms the landscape into a sparkling wonderland. As you prepare for your journey to Santa’s homeland, it’s essential to pack wisely to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. With temperatures plunging to as low as -20 degrees Celsius (-4 degrees Fahrenheit), carefully considering your packing list is crucial. This guide will walk you through the essentials for a frosty adventure in Santa’s Lapland.
Warm Clothing
Thermals are essential for Finland—and good quality ones, too. You need to start with a good base layer to trap warmth close to your body. I recommend investing in some merino wool base layers, as these are moisture-wicking, so they help regulate your temperature while keeping you warm. I bought these tops and leggings from Mountain Warehouse and can only say incredible things about them. I work outside in these cold conditions and have stayed lovely and warm all day. I have also linked some from Amazon UK that have good reviews.
P.S. – If you live in a country with a Primark, buy the thick fleece-lined leggings. There are not expensive (maybe £4), and they are ridiculously warm! They have saved me on days when it is -25!
Next, you need a mid-layer, such as a fleece or packable down jacket. These provide extra insulation. I love fleece jackets and have a couple of different options. I like a 1/4 or full zip from Mountain Warehouse and The North Face.
If you travel with a travel company/package trip, they may provide a thermal suit for your trip. These are great and do keep you very warm for your activities. But, when you arrive, you will be shocked at the temperature change and will need a warm coat with you for when you exit the aeroplane and when you don’t have your thermal suit. You should invest in a high-quality, windproof, waterproof jacket to protect against snow and moisture. I recommend bringing a ski jacket style, which is warm and not too bulky. You can get some good deals online and in the clearance section of stores. I have bought two ski jackets in the clearance section of Mountain Warehouse for under £30, and they are brilliant in -25 degrees!
Footwear
Like your thermal suit, most travel packages also include your winter boots. You can bring your own boots, but make sure they are waterproof and well-insulated to keep your feet warm and dry in the snow.
Good quality wool socks are the best way to keep your feet warm in the cold climates. The best type are thick, moisture-wicking merino wool socks to keep your feet snug. I recommend the Merino wool socks from Mountain Warehouse. I have linked some on Amazon UK that are highly rated, too.
Accessories
The key to staying warm in Lapland is the accessories. It would be best to opt for an insulated, waterproof hat, gloves and scarf to protect your extremities from the biting cold. Hats lined with fleece are great options.
It would help if you also considered bringing some hand and foot warmers or purchasing them in the supermarkets when you arrive. These add an extra layer of comfort during outdoor activities. You can get disposable warmers or rechargeable ones that you can reuse in the future and charge these with a USB cable.
Eyewear
The winter sun reflecting off the snow can be intense, so pack a good pair of sunglasses to shield your eyes.
You can also pack a pair of ski goggles for skiing during your holiday. I picked these up from Amazon, and they worked great on the slopes.
Tech Gear
An essential to bring with you is a portable power bank. The cold temperatures can drain your devices’ batteries quickly, so having a backup power source is vital. You don’t want your phone battery dying while the northern lights are out!
If you have a camera, feel free to take this to capture the breathtaking winter landscapes and magical moments with Santa. Remember to bring an SD card and charger for the camera.
If you don’t have a digital camera, don’t worry. With the quality of phone cameras nowadays, sometimes you can’t tell the difference between a photo taken on a camera and one taken on a phone.
Travel Essentials
As with every trip, please ensure all necessary paperwork is for your international journey. This includes a valid and in-date passport, any travel vaccines you need and suitable travel insurance.
Don’t forget your travel adapter for your plugs and chargers. Lapland uses European-style outlets, so pack the correct adapter for your electronic devices.
Medical Supplies
You may find that the supermarkets in Lapland have a limited pharmacy, which may be expensive. A winter trip can expose you to various germs, so pack a small medical kit with essential medications. I suggest bringing some cold and flu remedies/tablets with you and some multivitamins with Vitamin D.
It won’t surprise you that Lapland is very cold. The cold, dry air can be harsh on your skin, so keep it hydrated. Bring a rich moisturiser and lip balm to protect your skin from extreme conditions.
Snacks and Hydration
Stay fueled during outdoor activities with nutritious snacks. Grab these high-energy snacks from the supermarket, including granola bars with oats.
Keep hydrated with a thermos-style bottle to prevent water from freezing.
Conclusion
Santa’s Lapland promises an enchanting winter experience, but coming prepared for the cold is essential. By following this comprehensive packing list, you’ll be well-equipped to embrace the magic of Lapland and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. So, bundle up, pack smart, and prepare for a winter adventure like no other in the heart of Santa’s homeland!