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What to Wear to Lapland: Complete Arctic Clothing Guide

Planning a trip to Lapland? Dressing correctly for Arctic temperatures is essential for enjoying your winter adventure. Our Lapland trips take you well within the Arctic Circle where temperatures can drop to -40°C, so proper layering is crucial for staying warm and comfortable.

Understanding Lapland's Winter Climate

When does it snow in Lapland? Snow falls between October and May, with thick snow cover typical in December. During the festive season, expect:

  • Daily maximum: -12°C (but often colder)
  • Daily minimum: -40°C
  • Daylight hours: Approximately 10:30am to 3:30pm 

Pro tip: The extreme cold will dry your skin. Pack oil-based moisturiser and lip balm as water-based products will freeze.

The Ultimate Lapland Packing List: Layer by Layer

Head & Face Protection

  • Thermal wooly hat or beanie
  • Balaclava (for extreme cold days)
  • Thick scarf or neck warmer
  • Oil-based moisturiser for hands and face
  • Lip balm with SPF

Upper Body Layering System

  • Base layer: Thermal long-sleeved vest 
  • Mid layer: Cotton t-shirt
  • Insulation layer: Fleece top or chunky wool jumper
  • Outer layer: Waterproof winter jacket (can be worn under thermal suit in extreme cold)

Lower Body Essentials

  • Base layer: Thermal long johns
  • Mid layer: Jogging bottoms, tracksuit trousers, or cargo pants
  • Avoid: Denim jeans or corduroy (they don't insulate when cold)

Footwear for Arctic Conditions

  • 1 pair of thin inner socks + 1 pair of thick ski socks (layered)
  • Waterproof winter boots for travel
  • Thermal boots (typically provided by tour operator)

Hand Protection

Quality ski gloves or mittens are essential! Consider bringing:

  • Insulated ski mittens (warmest option)
  • Hand warmers 

Pro tip: Keep them with your phone/camera to preserve battery life in cold

Thermal Suit

Most Lapland tour operators provide or hire thermal snowsuits that you wear over all your layers. This is your final outer shell against Arctic winds.

Following this Arctic clothing guide will keep you warm, comfortable, and ready to enjoy every magical moment of your Lapland experience!