Magazine

Finnish Lapland has been trending hard for the last few winters. Especially among families with excited kids eagerly awaiting Christmas Day.

Child or not, if you love Christmas vibes, snowy landscapes and are dying to meet Santa IRL (i.e., everyone EVER), Finnish Lapland is the trip of a lifetime. 

Adobe Free Stock

But, as with anywhere involving extreme weather, being prepared with the proper clothes and accessories can make or break your experience. Before you dive headfirst into snowdrifts and reindeer sleigh rides, let's talk about packing. 

What to Pack for Lapland in December

Adobe Free Stock

If you're picturing yourself in a bobble hat and mittens, sipping hot chocolate under the Northern Lights, you're halfway there. But it takes more than festive vibes to survive sub-zero temperatures. Here's your ultimate guide on what to pack for Lapland in December. Spoiler - it's more than just jumpers.

What Clothes to Wear in Lapland

The golden rule for Lapland is layers. Think of yourself as a human onion; the more layers, the better. Not just for warmth, but because peeling them off is oddly satisfying after coming back indoors. Start with these essentials.

• Thermal base layers: Thermal base layers are your new best friends. You'll need long-sleeved tops and thermal leggings. Look for merino wool or high-performance synthetics. But do avoid cotton, as it's as useful as a chocolate teapot in the cold.
• Mid layers: Including fleece tops, wool jumpers or insulated hoodies. Anything that traps heat without turning you into the Michelin Man is good.
• Outer layers: These need to be waterproof, windproof and warm. A proper winter jacket and ski trousers are non-negotiable. Bonus points if they're stylish enough for an Instagram photo.

Accessories

Adobe Free Stock

• Footwear: You're going to need sturdy, insulated boots with a good grip. Ice is unforgiving, and the goal is to stay upright and uninjured.
• Socks: Wool socks are the heroes you need in this climate; pack several pairs and then some.
• Hats: A good hat will prevent the wind from whipping your ears and keep icicle hair at bay.
• Gloves: Go for insulated waterproof gloves. Bring a backup pair, because snowball fights are mandatory.
• Scarves or buffs: Protect your neck and face from the icy wind with a thick scarf or a lightweight fast-drying buff.

The Must-Have Extras

Packing for Lapland isn't just about clothes. You'll need a few extras to make sure your holiday doesn't go downhill faster than a husky on skis.

Adobe Free Stock

• Reusable water bottle: It's easy to forget, but regardless of the weather, staying hydrated (while reducing your plastic usage) is your eternal friend. 
• Rechargeable hand warmers: These little bundles of happiness can be slipped into your gloves or boots and will make sure you can feel your toes in the great outdoors.
• Swimwear: Saunas are a big deal in Lapland, and some hotels have outdoor hot tubs you won't want to miss.
• Snow/ski sunglasses or goggles: Snow glare is not only uncomfortable, it can damage your eyes. So it's best avoided with some suitable eyewear. Besides, squinting will ruin your perfect winter snaps.
• Moisturiser and lip balm: Sub-zero temperatures and winter winds can wreak havoc on your skin. So, be kind to it and avoid dryness with some decent moisturiser and balm.
• An eSIM for Finland: There's no way you're not sharing snaps of huskies and snow-covered landscapes. A Finland eSIM will ensure you're connected without worrying about surprise roaming charges.

What to Pack for Lapland Activities

Lapland isn't just about admiring the scenery - it's about diving into it. But your everyday jeans won't cut it for those snowmobiling, dog sledging, and midnight Northern Lights tours.

Adobe Free Stock

Here's what you'll need.

• Thermal balaclava or face mask: Do your face a favour and protect it during those high-octane snowmobile rides. 
• GoPro or waterproof camera: Because no one believes stories about the Northern Lights without the footage to prove it.
• Power bank: Cold weather drains batteries faster than your enthusiasm for January gym sessions.
• Snacks: Always keep a stash of high-energy nibbles, such as nuts or chocolate. You burn more calories in the cold.

What Not to Pack

Now that your suitcase is bursting at the seams, here's what you can confidently leave behind when packing for Lapland in December.

• Jeans: In this climate, jeans are too cold, uncomfortable and take forever to dry. Hard pass.
• Umbrella: Snow and winter wind laughs in the face of umbrellas. A quality waterproof coat with a sturdy hood should be enough to repel storms and showers. 
• Formal wear: Unless you're planning to dine with Santa (how did you swing that?), casual layers are the dress code everywhere.

Packing Tips for Families

Adobe Free Stock

If you're travelling with kids, it's all about comfort and practicality. You can never have enough extra clothes, snacks and ways to keep them entertained. 

Recap - Packing Checklist for Lapland in December 

• Thermal base layers
• Mid-layers (fleece/wool)
• Waterproof outerwear
• Insulated boots
• Hats, gloves, scarves and socks
• Hand warmers
• Sunglasses
• Swimsuit
• An eSIM for Finland

Stay Online in Lapland with Airalo

Don't let patchy Wi-Fi and hunting for local SIM cards ruin your snowy adventures. Grab a Finland eSIM from Airalo and stay connected wherever you roam. Affordable, reliable and perfect for sharing reindeer selfies - what's not to love? 

FAQs: What to Pack for Lapland in December

1.) What should I wear in Lapland in December?

December in Lapland can drop to –20°C (or colder), so layering is essential. Start with thermal base layers, add a warm mid-layer like fleece or wool, and finish with a waterproof, windproof outer layer. Pair this with insulated boots, wool socks, a hat, scarf or buff, and waterproof gloves or mittens.

2.) Do I need to pack my own snowsuit and boots for Lapland activities?

Not always, many tour operators in Finnish Lapland provide thermal overalls and winter boots for activities such as husky rides, snowmobiling and Northern Lights tours. Still, bring your own base and mid-layers, plus a warm winter coat and sturdy boots for walking around town.

3.) How cold does it get in Lapland in December?

Daytime temperatures often range between –5°C and –15°C, but clear nights and wind chill can make it feel much colder. Pack clothing designed for sub-zero conditions and protect exposed skin with a hat, gloves, scarf or balaclava, and plenty of moisturiser and lip balm.

4.) What extras should I pack for Lapland besides winter clothes?

Useful extras include rechargeable hand warmers, a power bank, sunglasses or ski goggles for snow glare, swimwear for saunas, and high-energy snacks. For a fun winter photo trick, pack a small bottle of bubbles or a few balloons to make frozen bubbles and ice balloons in the cold.

5.) How can I stay online in Lapland without paying high roaming charges?

The easiest option is to use an eSIM for Finland. Buy a Finland eSIM from Airalo before you travel, download it to your phone, and activate it when you land. You’ll have instant local data for sharing photos, checking maps and staying connected without relying on patchy hotel Wi-Fi.