15 Essential Tips for Visiting Lapland Finland in Winter
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If you’re planning to visit Finland in winter, you NEED to read these 15 tips for visiting Lapland in winter first! Yes, you’re in for one of the most magical travel experiences on Earth—snow-dusted forests, reindeer safaris, glass igloos, and Northern Lights dancing overhead. But the Arctic isn’t your average winter destination, and the best trips are the ones that are well-prepped.
Whether you’re trying to figure out what to pack, how to see the Aurora, or what it’s really like to ride behind a team of huskies, here are 15 practical tips for visiting Lapland Finland in winter—based on our experience.
1. All vehicles in winter must have snow tires (and most do)
The number one need-to-know tip for visiting Lapland in winter is that the roads are snowy! If you’re renting a car, good news: Finnish law requires snow tires in winter, and rental cars come equipped. Roads are often snow-packed but well-maintained, and drivers are used to the conditions. Just drive slower, avoid nighttime travel if possible, and plan in extra time.
2. You’ll want to fly into Rovaniemi, Ivalo, or Kittilä
The most common way to reach Lapland is by flying north from Helsinki. Rovaniemi is the easiest for first-timers, but Ivalo is better for remote, darker skies and less light pollution. You can also take the Santa Claus Express overnight train from Helsinki—comfy, scenic, and low-stress.
3. Layers are everything—start with merino wool
Temps often drop below -20°C in mid-winter, especially at night. You’ll want:
- Merino wool base layers
- Fleece or down mid-layer
- Waterproof outer layer
- Insulated boots
- Wool socks, mittens, neck gaiter, and a beanie
Even if your excursions include outerwear (which many do), your own layers are crucial for warmth.
>>> Check out our comprehensive Finnish Lapland packing list here!
4. Pack hand warmers, a power bank, and a swimsuit
Sounds random, but trust me—you’ll use all three.
- Hand/foot warmers are a lifesaver during long Aurora hunts
- Power banks are key (batteries die fast in the cold)
- Swimsuit is a must for sauna culture, and many hotels have one
5. Book a self-drive husky safari for the full experience
Driving your own sled is the best part of a husky safari—don’t settle for just riding in the sled if you can help it. It feels intense at first, but the dogs quickly settle into rhythm, and it’s an unforgettable way to glide through Lapland’s snowy forests.
6. Reindeer rides are magical—but cold and slow
Unlike husky tours, reindeer sleigh rides are peaceful, quiet, and often run by local Sámi families. Wear extra layers, since you’ll be sitting still the whole time. Evening or twilight rides are extra magical under the Arctic sky.
7. Snowmobiling is thrilling—but yes, you need a driver’s license
Snowmobiles are surprisingly easy to handle, and they’re a fast way to explore frozen lakes and trails. Bring a valid license, ask about insurance waivers, and wear full face protection (balaclava + goggles) for wind chill.
8. Don’t plan to chase the Northern Lights every night
Chasing the Aurora can be exhausting. Instead, book one or two guided tours (especially if you want help with photography), and choose accommodations like glass igloos or cabins where you can watch the sky from bed.
9. Cloud cover matters just as much as the Aurora forecast
Everyone checks the KP index (solar activity level), but cloudy skies will block the lights even on a high-KP night. Apps like My Aurora Forecast are helpful, but also look at weather and cloud cover when planning your viewing.
10. Practice night photography before your trip if you want to photograph the Aurora
Bring a camera (even your phone camera can do) with manual settings, a tripod, and learn the basics of long exposure night photography before you go. And bring extra batteries—they drain fast in the cold.
11. Try the sauna + ice plunge—even if it sounds insane
Finnish sauna culture is real, and you’ll find saunas everywhere. Some even include a hole in a frozen lake for the full plunge. It’s intense but surprisingly invigorating. Pack a swimsuit and flip-flops.
12. Snowshoeing and winter hiking are underrated
If you want a break from tours and excursions, snowshoeing is a great DIY way to explore the quiet Arctic landscape. Rent gear locally and stick to well-marked trails—snow hides a lot of hazards. And yes, snacks and a thermos make everything better.
13. Credit cards work almost everywhere
Finland is very card-friendly—even for tiny purchases at gas stations or cafes. You likely won’t need cash at all unless you’re visiting very rural places or Sámi markets.
14. Expect short daylight hours—plan your activities accordingly
In December and January, you’ll only get around 3–5 hours of daylight. It’s not pitch black the rest of the time—there’s a soft Arctic blue glow for a while—but book activities during daylight hours if visibility matters.
15. Book everything well in advance—especially during peak months
Winter is peak season in Lapland, and things book up quickly. Accommodations (especially glass igloos), ice fishing, snowmobile and husky tours, tickets to activities within the Santa Claus Village like Snowman World, and even rental cars can sell out months ahead of time. If you’re traveling between December and March, lock it in early.
Final Note: More Tips for Visiting Lapland in Winter
Lapland in winter is a bucket-list destination, but it’s also remote, cold, and surprisingly active. A little extra preparation goes a long way toward making your trip smooth, comfortable, and unforgettable. Hopefully, these tips help you stay warm, catch the Northern Lights, and enjoy everything this Arctic wonderland has to offer.
If you planned a trip to Lapland want to share your tips for an epic winter trip, drop me a comment below!
