Packing list for arctic Norway in winter

Norwegian winters, especially in the north, are famous for the low temperatures, sometimes as low as -25° Celsius (-13° F).

In Norway, the saying goes:

‘There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing’. Here you will read what to do. Pack smart!

Northern Norway has a varied climate and during the winter the average temperature is around -6 °C. However, when you are traveling there to experience Arctic adventures or chase the Northern Lights, you should expect temperatures that can range from -25 °C to +5 °C.

Here are some guidelines about how to dress in the winter.

(*) We recommend wearing several layers of clothing with the woolen layer as close to your skin as possible. If you wear several layers of clothing it is easier to regulate your temperature.

(**) When selecting shoes for your trip please make sure that they are:

• wide enough to fit thick woolen socks and possibly woolen insoles.
• aren’t too tight since this will result in cold feet.
• waterproof.

There are many good boots for sale for Arctic conditions. However other hiking boots that meet the aforementioned criteria will also suffice.

(***) ‘Brodder’ is the Norwegian word for spikes that you attach to the bottom of your shoe. This is done to increase grip in slippery conditions. They can be bought in shoe shops, pharmacies (apoteket) or sports stores. They come in different brands varying in price, however the ones that cost around 100 to 150 NOK (10-15 USD) will be perfectly adequate.

(****) We recommend bringing slippers to wear indoors at your accommodation since it is often not allowed to wear outdoor shoes inside. Mind these should be slippers that you can wear socks in.

(*****) We would also like to recommend woolen insoles for your shoes. They will insulate your feet even further. However, you have to make sure that your shoes don’t get too tight as a result.