Scandinavia Packing List - Your Complete Checklist

Good preparation is essential for any Scandinavia trip. Whether hunting Northern Lights in winter, hiking in summer, or road tripping through the fjords - here's the ultimate packing list for all seasons.

Clothing - Summer (June-August)

• Base Layer: Merino underwear (temperature regulating)
• Mid Layer: Fleece jacket or light sweater
• Outer Layer: Waterproof, breathable jacket
• Hiking Pants: Quick-dry, with zip-off legs
• Rain Pants: Light and packable
• Hat & Gloves: Even in summer for mountains!
• Sunglasses: UV protection for snow fields

Clothing - Winter (November-March)

• Thermal Underwear: Merino or synthetic
• Insulation Layer: Down jacket or Primaloft
• Outer Layer: Windproof hardshell
• Winter Pants: Insulated and waterproof
• Hat: Fleece or wool, covering ears
• Gloves: Mittens + thin liner gloves
• Scarf/Buff: For face protection
• Winter Boots: Insulated to -30°C

Outdoor Gear

• Hiking Boots: Waterproof, ankle-high, broken in!
• Backpack: 30-40L with rain cover
• Trekking Poles: Ease strain on knees
• Headlamp: Essential for polar regions in winter
• Water Bottle: 1-2 liters, insulated for winter
• Sit Pad: Insulates from cold ground

Camping & Wild Camping

• Tent: 4-season for Lapland
• Sleeping Bag: Comfort rating -10°C (winter: -25°C)
• Sleeping Pad: R-value at least 3 (winter: 5+)
• Stove: Gas or liquid fuel (liquid for extreme cold)
• Cookware: Lightweight, with lid
• Water Filter: For drinking water from lakes

Northern Lights Photography

• Camera: With manual mode (ISO 1600+)
• Tripod: Sturdy and wind-resistant
• Spare Batteries: Cold drains them fast!
• Remote Shutter: Prevents camera shake
• Hand Warmers: For batteries and fingers

Documents & Electronics

• Passport/ID: Check validity
• Health Insurance Card: EHIC for EU
• Credit Card: Scandinavia is nearly cashless
• Power Bank: 20,000mAh for multi-day trips
• Adapter: Type C/F (same as continental Europe)
• Offline Maps: Maps.me or Organic Maps