Are you planning a trip to Finland in winter and wondering what essentials you need to bring along?
I understand that planning a winter trip to Finland can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming. I remember feeling a bit stressed while trying to figure out what to wear for our trip to Finnish Lapland in December as well as Alaska in March.
It’s not easy to dress for such cold weather! I spent time researching all about winter clothing and packing essentials, and it really paid off. Thanks to all that prep, we had an amazing 7-day Finnish Lapland trip during winter. So, let’s ensure you have everything you need for an unforgettable winter adventure!
I’m really happy to share the Finland in Winter Packing List with all of you. Hope this blog helps you to stay warm and have the best Finland in winter trip ever!
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What to wear in Finland in Winter : Essential Finland Winter Packing List
Essential Layers for Finland in Winter
First, let’s discuss the essential clothing items you’ll need for your Finland Winter Packing List. I know it can feel a bit tricky figuring out what to wear in Finland in Winter when it comes to staying warm, but don’t worry, I’m here to help!
Depending on where you are visiting in Finland, you can expect winter temperature can be as low as below -25°C. Plus, the wind and moisture in the air can make it feel even colder—so it’s important to dress warmly!
That’s where layering comes in. It’s like a cozy blanket you can adjust based on the weather around you! If you’re not sure how to layer up for extreme cold, no worries at all! I’ll walk you through everything you need to stay warm and enjoy everthing Finland in winter has to offer.
Let’s get started and make sure you’re well-prepared for your Finland in Winter adventure.
Base Layer
Your base layer is super important for keeping you warm in the frigid winter temperatures of Finnish Lapland. Think of it as your first line of defense against the cold. It’s the layer that sits right next to your skin, so it needs to be great at wicking away moisture while still trapping your body heat close.
When it comes to materials, you can’t go wrong with wool or synthetic fabrics. If you can, go for merino wool—they’re awesome! It had excellent insulation and moisture-wicking properties and does an amazing job at regulating your body temperature, so you can stay warm without feeling too hot.
For the tops, look for long sleeves and consider getting something with high collar for that extra warmth around your neck. It really makes a difference when the wind picks up!
Here is our pick – Top layer Women & Top layer Men.
As for the bottoms, a nice pair of thermal leggings made from merino wool or synthetic materials will do the trick. Here is our pick – Base layer bottom for Women & Base layer bottom for Men.
These base-layers don’t need to be overly thick, as that’s the purpose of your mid-layer; instead, they should fit comfortably and provide excellent thermal protection.
Mid Layer
Once you’ve got your base layer all set, let’s dive into next part—choosing your mid layer!
The mid layer acts as an insulating barrier, trapping your body heat and preventing it from escaping. You’ll want to choose something that’s easy to put on or take off, depending on how the weather feels.
For top, I highly recommend opting for a soft and warm fleece jacket. Fleece is a fantastic choice for mid layer because it combines lightweight comfort with excellent insulation properties, ensuring you stay snug without feeling weighed down. Plus, it breathes well, so you won’t feel too hot when you’re on the move.
Here is our pick – Mid layer Women & Mid Layer Men
When it comes to your bottoms, you might not always need a mid layer. It would depend on how cold or warm your outer bottom layer is. If it’s very chilly, fleece-lined leggings are a great option! They keep you warm while still being comfy and not bulky, so you can easily wear them under your waterproof snow pants.
Outer Layer
You may face snow and chilly winds during your Lapland winter trip, so it’s essential to have an outer layer that is waterproof, windproof, and tough enough to handle it all! When looking for the perfect outer-layer jacket, it’s all about finding one that keeps you nice and warm while protecting you from the cold weather.
A down-insulated jacket is a fantastic choice; it’s filled with cozy down feathers that trap heat without being heavy, so you can move around comfortably while enjoying your time outside.
Here is our pick – Down insulated jacket –WomenandMen
Alternatively, consider a parka jacket. These coats typically reach knee-length or mid-thigh, providing ample coverage against wind and cold. They are designed to warm you, often featuring a fur-lined hood and protective outer shells that shield you from rain and snow.
Parka provides protection from windy conditions and especially important when you are out in the wild to chase northern lights – WomenandMen
When shopping, look for brands that specialize in jackets tailored for cold and wet conditions. These brands are likely to use high-quality materials and innovative designs to ensure you stay dry and warm, no matter the weather.
For your lower half, Snow pants or waterproof shell pants are great because they keep the moisture out and let you move freely. Look for pants with an adjustable waistband or zippers at the ankles—they make it super easy to slip them on over your boots. Plus, they should be both waterproof and windproof.
Here is our pick – Outer layer bottom for Women & Outer layer bottom for Men.
If you prefer overalls or insulated one piece suit, they can be a cozy choice too! Just keep in mind they can be a bit bulky and you might have to take off the overalls, if you need to use the restroom.
If you wear jeans as bottom outer layer, you need fleece-lined leggings underneath. However, I won’t recommend wearing jeans in extreme cold. For outdoor activities or when it snows, you will need waterproof snow pants to protect yourself from the icy cold temperatures.
Always wear the layers just before you plan to leave the hotel since the temperature is warmer inside, and you may not feel comfortable wearing winter clothes for a longer time inside your room. Start with Socks -> Base Layer (Thermals) -> Mid layers (Fleece) -> Shoes -> Outer Layer (Jacket or Parka).
We wore three layers of clothing and adjusted based on the surrounding temperatures in Lapland. For example, when we found ourselves inside a warm hotel or building, we would take off a couple of layers to stay comfortable. It’s really important to avoid sweating because that can make you chilly once you step back outside into the cold.
Accessories for Finland in Winter
Now that we’ve discussed the main clothing items for winter, let’s talk about winter accessories you should carry for your trip to Finnish Lapland.
Insulated Winter hats
A good beanies or winter cap help retain heat by covering your head and ears. When selecting a winter cap, it’s best to choose one made from wool or a wool blend, as these materials offer good insulation compared to cotton.
If you tend to feel chilly easily or have a sensitivity to the texture of wool, consider opting for a fleece-lined beanie. The fleece lining provides an extra layer of warmth and comfort, making it a great choice for those particularly cold days.
Also, consider bringing an extra beanie in case the first one gets wet or dirty.
Scarf & Balaclava
A scarf is essential for wrapping around your neck and face, providing an extra layer of warmth while also shielding against icy winds. They are especially effective for protecting the neck and chest area from chilling winds.
Scarves have their own advantages, however I would prefer balaclava (or neck gaiters) , especially when I go for outdoor winter activities in Finland. One of the key benefits of a balaclava or neck gaiters is that it can be easily pulled up over my nose and mouth, providing extra warmth when temperatures drop.
I would wear both a balaclava and a scarf together, which makes it the best combination for harsh cold weather conditions.
Gloves or Mittens
Don’t forget about gloves or mittens, which are equally important for protecting your hands from the biting cold. Protecting your hands from the cold is crucial, particularly when the wind picks up, and that’s where gloves and mittens come into play.
Waterproof and insulated gloves are often considered the best option for chilly weather, as they keep your hands warm and dry.
Mittens are also great because they keep your fingers snuggled together, which means they can actually help you stay warmer than gloves! It’s all about that extra warmth when the temperatures drop. Plus, you can bring along glove liners for those extra chilly days, giving your hand that added layer of comfort.
The other options is to carry Ski Gloves – they do an amazing job of keeping your hands warm—but boy, can they feel bulky! They would definitely become a challenge when you want to snap a pictures or just want to check your phone.
Personally, I used gloves and mittensduring the daytime and carried my ski gloves during nighttime while chasing for northern lights in Finland .
If you are doing a night tour in Finland booked via hotel or resort, they usually provide winter gear at no extra cost. Before booking, I suggest checking about winter gear with them.
Always remember, even if you are dressed in multiple layers of warm clothing, going without a proper beanie or gloves can lead to a not-so-good experience outdoors. Therefore, investing in quality winter accessories is essential for staying comfortable and enjoying your time in Finland’s beautiful winter landscape!
Warmers
Surviving extreme cold weather can be challenging, especially when you feel cold despite wearing multiple layers. To help you stay warm, especially at night, consider using hand or foot warmers.
Hand Warmers: These portable heat sources can easily fit in your pockets or gloves. These pocket-sized heat packs can provide extra warmth especially during outdoor adventures.
Foot Warmers: Cold feet can lead to a general feeling of chill. Foot warmers often come in the form of heated insoles or pads that can be placed inside your boots or shoes.
You can grab a bulk pack of hand & foot warmers for a great price! They’re super convenient to carry and you can activate them anytime you need a cozy boost.
Always read the instructions and warnings before using hand or foot warmers.
Socks and Winter boots
Finally, consider thermal socks and sturdy boots to keep your feet warm and dry.
Trust me, cold feet can really put a damper on your winter adventures, so it’s a great idea to pack several pairs of thermal socks.
Wool socks are a fantastic choice, especially merino wool. They do an amazing job of wicking away moisture, keeping your feet dry and comfy. Plus, they help regulate your temperature, so your feet stay warm even if they get a little wet—perfect for snowshoeing tours or northern light tours.
We wore two to three pairs of socks, depending on how cold it was and whether we spent our entire day outside for winter activities. I’d recommend bringing along at least three to five pairs depending on your trip length because socks are bound to get wet and maybe a bit smelly after a long day of exploring.
Here is our pick – Women wool socks&Men wool socks.
When you’re heading out to explore Finland in winter, having a great pair of boots is absolutely essential! You’ll want to look for waterproof boots to keep your feet nice and dry. Look for boots with linings made from materials like fleece or faux fur—your toes will thank you for the extra insulation.
Also, make sure to choose boots with sturdy soles that offer good traction. This way, you can confidently stroll through icy patches without worrying about slipping.
Here is our pick – Women Winter boot&Men Winter boot.
Consider sizing up your boots and wearing woolly socks, or even two pairs of socks, as I sometimes do. A tight fit may not be the best choice in extremely cold weather. Giving your feet a little extra room helps create a warm layer of air from your body temperature, keeping them nice and toasty!
Other necessary things to carry
Swimsuit : Pack your swim wear! You ask – WHY? The answer is – If you’re planning to try saunas in Finland, don’t forget to pack your swimsuit! It’s super common to wear one in public saunas. In case you didn’t know, saunas are a big part of Finnish culture and a fantastic way to relax and warm up at the same time.
Sunglasses : Bring your sunglasses to reduce the evaporation of tears and natural moisture from your eyes. They also help protect against harmful UV rays that can damage your eyes. Also, consider carrying an eye moisturizer.
Sunscreen – Even in winter, sunscreen for both your face and body is essential to protect your skin from harsh UV rays.
Lip balm: Due to dry weather, it’s important to keep a lip balm handy at all times.
Body Moisturizer : Winters can be harsh on the skin, so carry a thick body moisturizer. This will help keep your skin healthy in extremely dry conditions.
Tips for Staying Warm in Finland Winter
Layering is Key : The golden rule for dressing in cold climates is layering. Finland’s winter temperatures can drop as low as -30°C (-22°F), so staying warm requires thoughtful preparation.
Stay Dry: Wet clothes can quickly lead to hypothermia in freezing temperatures. Always pack extra layers and socks in case you get wet.
Hydrate and Fuel Your Body: Cold weather dehydrates you faster than you might expect. Keep a reusable water bottle handy and drink plenty of water & beverage. Drink Hot chocolate and have snacks.
FAQs
What to wear in Finland in December?
Finland in December can be cold, with temperatures frequently falling below freezing particularly in the northern regions. To stay warm, invest in a good-quality winter coat, dress in layers, and ensure you have waterproof gloves, snow boots, and wool socks.
Can you wear jeans in lapland?’
It’s not a good idea to wear jeans in extreme cold. I recommend wearing snow pants instead. If you decide to wear jeans, try to choose a loose fit and pair them with a fleece mid-layer and thermal base layer for added warmth.
Final Thoughts
Exploring Finland in winter is a bucket-list experience, but proper preparation ensures you stay warm and comfortable. Whether you’re snowshoeing through a Lapland forest, watching the Aurora Borealis, or sipping hot glögi (mulled wine), being warm will make every moment unforgettable.
Some of the items are not inexpensive especially jackets & parkas. We live in New Jersey, and for us, this feels like an investment. However, if you’re looking for cheaper option, I recommend checking Amazon for alternatives and reading the reviews before making any purchase.
I hope this blog helps you feel confident and prepared for your Finland in winter trip. Let us know in the comments if have any questions. Happy to answer! or if you find our blog useful. Happy to know!
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Enjoy the icy magic of Finland in winter!
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