What to Wear in Lapland in Winter: The Ultimate Lapland Packing Guide!
Figuring out what to wear in Lapland in winter was one of the first things on my mind as soon as we booked our trip. I mean, who doesn’t love an excuse to shop for cute winter fits?! But here’s the thing—Lapland is expensive, and good winter gear can seriously add up.
Plus, packing for a winter trip can be challenging because those bulky layers take up so much space. And trust me, as someone who is known to overpack for every trip, I had to be extra mindful not to go overboard!
Luckily, I found some budget-friendly, cozy, and cute options (including some Amazon favorites!) that won’t weigh down your suitcase. If you’re wondering how to stay warm and stylish in the Arctic without overpacking, you’re in the right place—let’s get into it!
What You Should Know When Packing for Lapland
If you’re wondering what to wear in Lapland in winter, the most important thing to know is that it gets very cold—like, Arctic Circle cold! So, of course, layers are essential to staying warm and comfortable.
But here’s something you might not have thought about—winter gear takes up a ton of space in your luggage. Between your thick jacket, snow boots, thermal layers, gloves, hats, and everything else needed to stay warm, your suitcase will fill up fast. So when shopping and packing, keep this in mind!
And if you’re planning activities like snowmobiling or husky sledding, some tour operators provide extra gear like snowsuits and boots, so check in advance to avoid overpacking. With the right balance of warmth, practicality, and space-saving tricks, you’ll be all set for an unforgettable winter adventure in Lapland!
Base Layers for Winter in Lapland
When figuring out what to wear in Lapland in winter, your base layers are the most important part of staying warm! Think of them as your cozy second skin—they help trap heat and wick away moisture so you stay warm and dry no matter how cold it gets.
For the best results, go for thermal or merino wool base layers (both top and bottom). Merino wool is especially great because it’s warm, breathable, and naturally odor-resistant—perfect for re-wearing on longer trips! If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, synthetic thermals work well too, just make sure they’re moisture-wicking.
Avoid cotton at all costs—it absorbs moisture and will leave you feeling damp and cold. Instead, layer up with wool socks, thermal leggings, and a snug long-sleeve top to create the perfect foundation for your winter adventure! Trust me, base layers will be your best friend in the Arctic chill.
Cute Snow Suits for Lapland
If you’re heading to Lapland in the winter, you need to be prepared for the snow, the cold, and everything in between! But if you’re anything like me (aka 5’2” and struggling to find snow gear that doesn’t make you feel like a marshmallow drowning in fabric), I totally get it.
I had to return so many snow pants, snow bibs, and snowsuits before I finally found the right ones that actually fit and kept me warm. So, to save you the hassle, I’m sharing the cutest, warmest, and best-fitting snow gear for your Lapland adventure. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, riding with huskies, or twirling in fresh powder, I’ve got you covered—literally!
The Perfect Sweaters and Jackets for Lapland
Shopping for cold-weather gear was my favorite part of prepping for Lapland, but with limited suitcase space, I had to be strategic. I think I found that the best approach for what to wear in Lapland in winter was packing a couple jackets (because your girl likes variety) and four sweaters—just enough to stay warm without overpacking.
The key to dressing for a Lapland winter is layering! A good base layer, a warm sweater, and the right jacket will keep you cozy no matter how cold it gets. And while it’s tempting to overpack (especially if you love sweater shopping like I do), packing a few warm pieces will leave you room for souvenirs!
Lapland Winter Boots + Socks
Let’s talk about keeping those toes toasty! When figuring out what to wear in Lapland in the winter, your boots and socks are everything. Trust me, nothing ruins the magic of chasing the Northern Lights faster than frozen feet!
First things first—boots. You’ll want a pair of insulated, waterproof winter boots rated for extreme cold (think -20°C or lower). Make sure they’re roomy enough for thick socks because tight boots = cold feet!
Now, let’s talk socks—because one pair is never enough! Layering is the secret to keeping your feet extra warm. Start with moisture-wicking liner socks (because sweaty feet = cold feet), then add thick wool socks on top for insulation. Merino wool is your best friend here! The air trapped between layers helps retain heat, so resist the urge to cram your feet into tight boots with just one pair of thick socks—you’ll actually stay warmer with a layered system.
Let’s Talk Cute Accessories for Lapland!
Staying warm in Lapland isn’t just about layering clothes—it’s the accessories that make all the difference. When planning what to wear in Lapland in the winter, the right cold-weather gear will keep you comfortable while still looking put-together.
A warm beanie is essential to trap heat, and ear muffs add extra warmth while keeping things cozy. A thick scarf is a must for blocking out the cold and adding an extra layer of insulation.
For your hands, layering gloves is key. Start with touchscreen-friendly liner gloves so you can use your phone, then add insulated mittens on top for maximum warmth. Don’t forget hand warmers, which are lifesavers when temperatures drop.
When figuring out what to wear in Lapland in the winter, these accessories will help keep you warm and comfortable so you can focus on enjoying the winter magic.
What Not to Wear in Lapland?
Packing for Lapland is all about warmth and practicality, and some clothing just won’t cut it in Arctic temperatures. When figuring out what to wear in Lapland in the winter, the key is to avoid anything that absorbs moisture or doesn’t insulate well—because once you’re cold, it’s hard to warm up.
First things first: leave the jeans at home. Denim soaks up moisture, takes forever to dry, and offers no insulation. If you wear jeans outside, you’ll regret it the moment they turn into a stiff, freezing mess. Instead, go for insulated, water-resistant pants that will actually keep you warm.
Avoid cotton, especially for base layers. Cotton holds onto sweat, which means you’ll get cold fast. Stick to wool or synthetic fabrics that wick moisture away from your skin. Thin, everyday gloves also won’t be enough. Instead of single-layer gloves, opt for liner gloves plus mittens to trap heat properly. And forget tiny, stylish scarves—go for something thick that actually blocks the wind.
When planning what to wear in Lapland in the winter, think warm, waterproof, and layered. Anything that absorbs moisture, lacks insulation, or isn’t built for extreme cold will just make your trip less enjoyable. Pack smart, stay cozy, and you’ll be ready for all the Arctic adventures ahead!