Last Updated on April 8, 2026
I have visited more than 60 countries around the world and I have learned one very important lesson: packing can make or break your trip and especially here in the north. Scandinavia is my home since 2012 and I visited almost all of its corners including the dramatic fjords and sharp mountains of Norway, the endless forests, valleys and lakes of Sweden and also Scandinavia’s charming cities as well as the best beaches to relax. During my first years, I used to underestimate the weather. I made big mistakes and learnt my lessons. I quickly realized that summers can besides sunshine also bring strong wind and cold rain. And winter? Expect all – freezing temperatures, snow storms and northern lights above your head. If you are planning a trip to Scandinavia, here is my complete packing guide for both summer and winter adventures. Everything has been tested thoroughly through the years and I will share with you my examples of packing lists from my adventures in Sweden and Norway including pictures for inspiration.
Before we start with the packing list, it’s important to understand one thing: Scandinavian weather varies a lot based on where exactly you plan to travel. The southern part of Scandinavia and the coastal areas can surprise with decently warm summers and calm winters. The north and the mountains are different stories. Summers are also cold here and it can sometimes even snow in the mountains during the warmest time of the year. Winters can be very cold. Temperatures in the north under -30 aren’t uncommon.
Beware that there are also many different microclimates across Scandinavia. To check the exact climate and expected weather of your destination, I recommend to check your destination at Wikipedia. Below you can see an example of Stockholm. At the table below you can clearly see the expected temperatures and precipation for every month.
Wikipedia doesn’t show data for every location. To see climate and weather data for other locations, I recommend to use Weather Spark which provides an amazing data set. This site basically gives you a very readable climate report for any place on Earth.
Another important thing to keep in mind is wind. Scandinavia is pretty windy, especially on the coast, islands and in the mountains. When checking the weather forecast, take a look how strong the wind will be as well. The wind can make significant difference as you can see in the table below. The feeling temperature gets much colder when the wind is strong:
When travelling in Scandinavia, a proper layering system is essential. Years ago, travellers often relied on one big heavy jacket that was supposed to solve everything. Those times are over. We learnt well that this method is very inefficient.
In Scandinavia, weather conditions can change very quickly and during one single day you might experience cold mornings, warm afternoons, sudden rain showers or strong wind. The most efficient solution is to use a layering system – several thinner layers which you can add or remove depending on the conditions.
The first layer (base layer) is the most important one because it sits directly on your skin. Its main job is to manage moisture and keep you comfortable. The best option is merino wool, which keeps you warm even when it gets wet and doesn’t smell after several days of use. This layer works both in winter and summer – in warmer months you can simply choose lighter merino clothing.
The second layer is your insulation layer. Its job is to keep the heat your body produces. A fleece jacket or a light wool sweater works perfectly here. It’s breathable, warm and easy to pack. During summer hikes in Scandinavia, this layer is often enough for the hiking time.
The third layer protects you from the elements. This is usually a waterproof and windproof jacket, ideally made from materials like Gore-Tex or similar membranes. This layer shields you from rain, snow and strong winds which are very common in Scandinavia.
The fourth layer is an additional insulation piece for colder conditions or when you stop moving. A down jacket or synthetic insulated jacket is perfect for breaks during hikes, chilly evenings or colder days.
In real winter conditions, especially in northern Scandinavia, you might even bring a fifth layer – a very warm expedition down jacket. This heavy jacket is usually used when you stop moving, for example when watching northern lights or during winter photography sessions.
The same layering principle works for the lower part of the body. Start with a merino base layer, add insulated trousers or fleece pants and finish with waterproof shell trousers which protect you from rain, snow and wind. In summer, you will often only need hiking shorts or trousers and possibly a thin base layer in the morning.
Don’t forget about accessories, which are surprisingly important in cold environments. A warm hat, gloves and possibly a neck warmer or buff can dramatically increase your comfort. In winter, many travellers bring two pairs of gloves – a thinner pair for active movement and a thicker insulated pair for very cold conditions or when standing still.
Since you know the essential layering system, let’s move to take a look at specific examples:
Summer in Scandinavia doesn’t mean hot Mediterranean weather. Temperatures usually range between 5–30°C depending on your location. If you want to spend time in the capitals or somewhere on the beach, you will be surprised that it can be pleasantly warm and you can swim in decently warm lakes and even in the sea. You will find out that the most popular beaches are actually crowded during sunny days.
But don’t underestimate packing. Evenings can be cold and be careful especially if you plan to travel in the mountains where strong winds and rains are common. You can even experience snow in the highest mountain ranges.
Packing for Scandinavian cities and beaches in summer is relatively simple, but there is one important difference compared to southern Europe – the weather is much more unpredictable. If you’re planning a summer trip to cities like Stockholm, Oslo or Copenhagen, you can expect warm and pleasant days, but also sudden rain showers, strong wind or surprisingly cold evenings.
Typical summer temperatures in Scandinavia range between 15–30°C in cities and coastal areas (it can exceptionally drop to 10°C during nights), which makes it comfortable for sightseeing, swimming and outdoor activities. However, even during sunny days, the weather can change quickly, so it’s important to be prepared for different conditions.
My main recommendation is to always carry a small daypack with extra layers. I personally never travel in Scandinavia without a light down jacket and a waterproof jacket (such as Gore-Tex). This combination will keep you warm during colder evenings and protect you from unexpected rain, which is common even in summer.
- T-shirts and light tops
- Shorts and light trousers
- Comfortable walking shoes or sandals
- Swimsuit
- Light sweater or hoodie
- Light down jacket
- Waterproof jacket (Gore-Tex)
- Sunglasses & sunscreen
When preparing for summer hiking in Scandinavia, the most important thing is to follow a proper layering system which I introduced thoroughly at the beginning of this article. Weather in Scandinavian mountains is highly unpredictable – even in summer, you can experience warm sunshine, strong wind, heavy rain or even near-freezing temperatures within a single day.
That’s why your clothing for hiking in Scandinavia should be versatile, lightweight and easy to combine. Instead of relying on one heavy jacket, you should always pack multiple layers that can be adjusted depending on the conditions.
Below is my complete summer hiking packing list for Scandinavia based on my own experience from trips across Norway and Sweden:
- Sturdy waterproof boots – proper boots are essential in Scandinavia. Trails are often rocky, muddy or wet, and you will frequently cross uneven terrain. Waterproof boots will keep your feet dry and stable.
- 4 pairs of socks – I recommend at least 4 pairs of socks – 2 for hiking and 2 for sleeping. Dry socks are crucial for comfort, especially during multi-day hikes.
- Lightweight pants – bring breathable pants for regular conditions and shorts for warm days. Weather can change quickly, so having both options is ideal.
- Shorts for hot days
- Layering system (key to comfort)
- Base layer (Merino wool is the best choice because it regulates temperature, dries quickly and doesn’t smell even after several days)
- 1 short sleeve merino T-shirt
- 2 long sleeve merino T-shirts
- 2 pairs of merino pants (one for hiking, one for sleeping)
- Base layer (Merino wool is the best choice because it regulates temperature, dries quickly and doesn’t smell even after several days)
- Mid layer (fleece or wool) – a fleece sweater provides warmth during colder moments and works perfectly while hiking in cooler weather.
- Outer shell – A high-quality waterproof and windproof jacket is absolutely essential. Ideally choose Gore-Tex or similar materials.
- Important lesson: I once skipped waterproof pants to save weight during my Lofoten trip and it was my biggest mistake. Being wet for multiple days in a row is extremely uncomfortable and can ruin your experience.
- Insulation layer (light down jacket) – a lightweight down jacket is crucial for breaks, evenings or colder weather. Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly once you stop moving.
- Accessories (often underestimated)
- Warm hat (for breaks and evenings)
- Lightweight hat or cap (for hiking)
- Buff or neck warmer (great protection against wind)
- Light gloves (very useful in mountains even in summer)
- Gaiters (help prevent water, mud and debris from getting into your boots)
This clothing setup works perfectly for most summer hiking adventures in Scandinavia, especially if you plan to sleep in huts or indoor accommodation. If you plan to camp, you’ll need to add additional gear, which I cover in the next section.
No matter if you’re hiking in summer or heading into the mountains in winter, there are essential items you should always pack for Scandinavia. These are the basics that will keep you safe, comfortable and prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. If you’re hiking in Norway, Sweden or other Nordic countries, this core gear should always be in your backpack.
- Dry bags are essential for protecting your clothes and sleeping gear from moisture. I learned this the hard way during my Lofoten crossing when I had to sleep in a wet sleeping bag. I bought dry bags immediately after that experience.
- Trekking poles improve stability, reduce strain on your legs and help you move more efficiently across rough terrain. Since I started using them, hiking has become faster and much more comfortable. They are even more important in winter conditions.
- First aid kit and blister care – always carry a basic first aid kit, including blister treatment. Small injuries can quickly become serious problems on multi-day hikes.
- Sun protection – the sun can be surprisingly strong during summer, don’t forget sunblock, lip balm and sunglasses; don’t underestimate the sun in the winter either – due to reflections in snow, the sun can be very strong in late winter months.
- Medication – bring any personal medication and consider packing painkillers and antihistamines for unexpected situations.
- Sitting pad – a great Scandinavian invention which you will appreciate on every break.
- Hygiene kit + toilet paper – always pack toilet paper and a bag for waste. Nature in Scandinavia is clean – keep it that way.
- Offline maps + backup navigation Use an app like Mapy.cz or similar with offline maps downloaded. Always bring a backup paper map + compass in case your phone fails.
- Power banks are necessary to keep your phone alive. Phones work today as cameras, GPS maps and emergency devices. Don’t risk having a low or even dying battery.
- Chargers are easy to forget or lose. I rather bring a spare one for my phone in case I lose or break one.
- Headlamp is a must not only for inside and around your tent but also if you stay in mountain huts. Toilets are usually only outside so it’s great to have a headlamp to find it safely. Headlamps are also essential if you plan to go for sunrise and sunset hikes.
- Lightweight flip flops or other light camp shoes – after a long hike, your feet will thank you. In winter, bring something warm instead.
- A small repair kit can save your trip. Duct tape is especially useful and can fix almost anything in the field.
Besides the essential equipment listed above, there are a few less obvious items that can make your adventure in Scandinavia easier, safer or simply more enjoyable. These are things I personally like to bring with me on longer trips.
- Satellite communicator (Garmin Inreach) – amazing tool for your safety. If you travel in remote areas without signal, this can be a lifesaver. It allows you to contact emergency services via satellite.
- Camera equipment including tripod – highly recommended to have wonderful memories of your trip, for me it’s a must pice of gear 🙂
- Water filter – water in Scandinavian mountains is often safe to drink, but avoid water near farms and wild animals and be cautious in popular hiking areas. A filter adds an extra level of safety.
- Solar charger can be very useful during longer hikes or multi-day expeditions, especially when you spend several days away from electricity. Phones today are essential tools for navigation, photography and emergency communication, so keeping them charged is important. A solar panel attached to your backpack can slowly recharge your power bank or phone while you hike during the day.
- Sleeping mask – is another small but useful item to have – during Scandinavian summer, the midnight sun means it never gets completely dark, especially in northern Scandinavia. A sleeping mask can help you sleep better when camping or staying in huts.
- Ear plugs – if you are planning to sleep in mountain huts, don’t forget ear plugs as shared rooms can be full of loud snorers.
- Lightweight ziplock bags help with reducing chaos in your backpack. They help organise small items, protect electronics from moisture and keep food separate from the rest of your gear.
Packing for multi-day hiking and camping in Scandinavia requires much more preparation than a simple day hike. The weather can be both amazing and terrible. I will share with you an example of my packing list when I crossed the Lofoten islands in 10 days. It’s a perfect example because this trail needs proper hiking and tenting equipment for extreme weather changes. You will very likely experience there both warm pleasant days and also rainy and windy ones (as I did) and these are typical conditions for all Scandinavian adventures.
Backpack Weight & Strategy
The base weight of my backpack was around 12 kg for Lofoten Crossing. My photography gear added about 3 kg more. With food and water the backpack was close to 20 kg which is a bit too much for such a hike. It’s better not to be a photographer 🙂 If possible, aim for a lighter setup – your body will thank you after long hiking days.
Hiking clothing (Quick Recap – see details in the previous section)
For clothing, follow a layering system adapted for Scandinavian weather:
- Waterproof boots
- 4 pairs of socks (2 for hiking, 2 for sleeping)
- Underwear
- Merino base layers
- Fleece mid-layer
- Waterproof shell (jacket + pants)
- Light down jacket (for breaks and evenings)
- Accessories- a hat or cap, a neck warmer, light gloves, gaiters
This setup works reliably across most summer hiking conditions in Scandinavia.
I have tried many different backpacks and my current favourite one is the Osprey Exos Pro 55. It is an excellent backpack for summer adventures in Scandinavia. It is a lightweight backpacking backpack with enough space for everything you need for multi-day hikes in nature. Despite its relatively low weight, the 55-liter capacity easily fits a tent, sleeping bag, mattress, food and other camping equipment. This makes it perfect for longer treks where you plan to sleep outdoors and be self-sufficient for several days.
Camping gear & sleep
- Reliable tent
- a must if you want sleep on some extraordinary or remote locations
- remember that your tent must handle strong wind which is common across Scandinavia
- tent is also a great tool to save money on accommodation which tends to be expensive in Sweden and especially in Norway
- Inflatable mattress & its repair kit in case you break it on your adventure
- Proper sleeping bag with comfort depending on your destination. Be careful! If you plan to go the mountains, temperatures can be there even below zero
- Pillow cover where I put my down jacket for night and becomes a comfy pillow
- Quick-drying towel
Cooking & food
- Outdoor kitchen – I recommend those which work even in strong winds which are common in Scandinavia.
- Gas canister – must be bought locally because you cannot fly with it; keep in mind that there are winter and summer versions – the summer version will not work for you in winter.
- Ignition (Lighter or fire steel)- matches do not work in rainy weather, don’t depend on them.
- Food – there are so many options these days that this deserves its own blog post, but always plan for high-calorie meals, lightweight options and easy preparation.
- Thermos for a hot beverage and I strongly recommend also a thermos for hot food especially for winter.
- Lightweight water bottle
- Knife (be careful – you can’t have a knife in your carry-on bag if you fly to your adventure)
- Lightweight plate
- Spork to eat your tasty dishes with.
You will be surprised but packing for winter isn’t that much different from summer packing. The base is actually the same, you just need more layers and special equipment to move through snow or ice. Let’s take a deeper look at it.
If you have already read my packing tips for summer hiking in Scandinavia and understand the layering system, the good news is that winter packing is actually very similar. The basic principles remain the same – you will use the same type of clothing and equipment. You just need more insulation and equipment adapted for snow conditions.
The most important difference is that you will need additional warm layers. While a summer hike might only require a base layer, fleece and a waterproof jacket, winter conditions often require extra insulation such as a down jacket or even multiple insulated layers for very cold temperatures or when you stop moving.
The other major difference is transport in snow. Regular hiking shoes are usually not enough when the landscape is covered in deep snow. Depending on the terrain and snow conditions, you might need skis, snowshoes or even a pulka (sled) to carry heavier equipment.
Apart from these differences, the rest of your packing list stays largely the same. The same layering principles, waterproof protection and basic outdoor equipment still apply. You simply adapt them to colder temperatures and snowy terrain. To help you prepare even better, I have also included a few personal and less obvious tips which I learned during my own winter adventures in Scandinavia. You will find these useful details in the detailed Scandinavian winter packing list below.
How to Move in Snow: Backcountry Skis, Touring Skis or Snowshoes
Before you pack your backpack, it’s important to decide how you will move in the snow conditions. In winter, regular hiking often becomes difficult or even impossible because deep snow makes walking slow and exhausting or even impossible. To travel efficiently across snowy landscapes in Scandinavia, people typically use backcountry skis aslo known as nordic touring skis, touring skis (randonnée) or snowshoes. Each option is suited for different terrain and types of winter adventures.
Backcountry skis (Nordic touring skis)
Backcountry skis are the most common way of travelling across snowy landscapes in Scandinavia. They are similar to classic cross-country skis but are wider, more stable and designed for ungroomed terrain.
They work perfectly for long-distance travel across plateaus, valleys and frozen lakes, which is typical terrain in the Nordic countries. Because of their efficiency, they are widely used for hut-to-hut trips and multi-day expeditions. Many winter travellers also use them while pulling a pulka (sled) with additional equipment.
Backcountry skis are ideal when the hills are mostly rolling rather than steep and allow you to cover long distances much faster than walking.
Touring skis (ski touring / randonnée)
Touring skis are designed mainly for mountain terrain and steeper landscapes. Just like with backcountry skis, the heel moves freely while climbing uphill. When skiing down, the binding can be locked for better control.
To climb efficiently, special skins are attached to the bottom of the skis which prevent sliding backwards. Once you reach the top, the skins are removed and you can enjoy the descent.
Touring skis are therefore ideal for winter mountain adventures where you expect both significant climbing and downhill skiing.
Snowshoes
Snowshoes are the simplest option for moving in deep snow. They attach directly to your winter boots and allow you to walk on top of the snow instead of sinking into it.
They are perfect for shorter winter hikes, forest terrain or steep areas where skiing might feel uncomfortable. Snowshoes also require much less technical skill than skis, which makes them a good choice for beginners.
However, they are generally slower and more physically demanding than skis, especially during longer trips.
Similarly to summer, I recommend to use my favourite backpack Osprey Exos Pro 55. It works very well during winter trips, especially for hut-to-hut adventures where you don’t need to carry a tent and full camping equipment. In that case, the Osprey Exos Pro 55 offers plenty of space for extra warm layers, winter clothing and essential gear, while still remaining comfortable and relatively lightweight. It’s a great size for winter trekking where you need more clothing but still want to keep your backpack compact and manageable. It’s recommended to have max 15kg, ideally 10kg or less in your backpack when you want to move on snow.
In case you want to carry tenting gear, I actually don’t recommend any backpack. You would be too heavy and it would be hard to move in snow. Instead, I recommend to buy or rent a sled/pulka to carry your heavy gear. The most durable pulkas for Scandinavian adventures are made by company Fjellpulken.
- Merino base layers – three sets of merino wool base layers are ideal – two for hiking will give you an option to change if you sweat too much in one, as well as one for sleeping. Merino keeps you warm and manages moisture well even in cold environments.
- Second insulating layer (fleece or wool) – a fleece jacket or wool sweater works perfectly as a mid layer under your shell jacket.
- Waterproof shell jacket and pants – A windproof and waterproof outer layer is essential. In winter you will encounter snow, wind and sometimes wet conditions, so proper protection is necessary.
- Insulated down jacket – a warm down jacket is essential for breaks, evenings in camp or photographing northern lights. When you stop moving, your body cools down quickly.
- Another insulated down jacket – I carry one light down jacket and one heavy one for breaks and extreme weather. This fifth layer is necessary for winter expeditions.
- Down pants are essential for breaks in winter. The cold air gets quickly to your skin when you don’t move and down pants will save you.
- Warm winter hats – A good insulated hat is essential in winter since a large amount of body heat escapes from the head. I bring actually two hats – a lighter one for moving and warmer one for breaks.
- Gloves – I bring three pairs of gloves if possible. A thinner pair for moving, a warm insulated pair for very cold conditions and very warm down gloves for breaks.
- Thick socks – Bring several pairs of warm socks. Dry socks are extremely important in winter to prevent cold feet. The best material is merino wool. It’s the warmest and the material doesn’t smell even after a week of usage.
- Gaiters are very useful in snowy terrain. They prevent snow from getting into your boots when walking in deep snow.
Winter camping gear & sleep
- Four-season tent
- A reliable tent is essential if you plan to camp in winter landscapes. Unlike summer tents, it must handle strong wind, snow load and freezing temperatures, which are common across Scandinavia during winter.
- Choose a model designed for winter conditions. Proper ventilation is also important because condensation inside the tent can easily freeze overnight.
- Insulated sleeping mat (or ideally two mats) & repair kit – proper insulation from the frozen ground is crucial. Most winter campers including myself use two sleeping mats – one inflatable and one foam mat – to prevent heat loss.
- Warm sleeping bag – your sleeping bag should be rated for significantly below freezing temperatures. Nights in Scandinavian mountains can easily drop far below zero, especially in northern regions. I myself have a sleeping bag with comfort up to -25°
C. - Pillow cover – just like in summer, I use a pillow cover where I place extra clothes or my down jacket. It creates a comfortable pillow and saves space in the backpack.
Packing for spring and autumn in Scandinavia can be surprisingly tricky. These shoulder seasons are highly unpredictable and often combine conditions from both summer and winter.
If you’re visiting cities like Oslo or Stockholm, expect similar weather to Central Europe but colder, windier and with faster changes. In the mountains, however, the situation is completely different. There isn’t really something like spring in other countries. There is usually a lot of snow in winter and it takes time to melt. Usual spring months such as April and May in the rest of Europe are actually still winter months in Scandinavian mountains. The snow melts in the north as late as in June. Once the snow is melted, there is usually directly summer.
On the other hand September is still regarded as a summer month in Scandinavian mountains. It gets colder but there isn’t usually much snow yet so you can enjoy the mountains in decent weather and as a bonus there are comfortably no mosquitoes! October and November are already winter months and these aren’t recommended for visits. The days are short, the weather is more unpredictable and most of local huts are closed until February.
Cities & lowlands (Oslo, Stockholm, Copenhagen)
- Spring arrives later than in Central Europe
- Autumn comes earlier and feels colder
- Frequent rain and wind
Mountains & northern Scandinavia
- Spring (April–May) = still winter conditions
- Snow can remain until June
- September – often the best hiking month (cool, stable, no mosquitoes)
- October–November – early winter, poor conditions, many huts closed
Always check current conditions before your trip – weather varies a lot by location and altitude. I strongly recommend to check Wikipedia and Weather Spark to check the expected weather in your destination. I also strongly recommend to be flexible with your plans because the weather can limit access to certain areas. Finally, pack warmer than you think at first.
The key is to combine summer flexibility with winter protection. You should be ready for:
- rain and potentially snow in the mountains
- strong wind
- cold mornings and evenings
- but also pleasant warm days
Clothing (adaptable layering system)
- Moisture-wicking base layers (preferably merino for warmth + odor control)
- Insulating mid-layers (fleece or wool sweater)
- Waterproof and windproof shell jacket (essential for rain and wind)
- Shell pants for wet or windy days
- Lightweight insulated jacket (down or synthetic for breaks and evenings)
- Lightweight hiking pants (for warmer days)
Footwear & traction
- Waterproof hiking boots with good grip
- Warm hiking socks (multiple pairs to keep feet dry)
- Microspikes for icy or slippery trails (especially in spring and late autumn)
Accessories (small but crucial)
- Warm hat + lightweight beanie or cap
- Light gloves (plus warmer pair if heading into mountains)
- Buff or neck gaiter for wind protection
- Sunglasses (low sun + glare can still be strong)
Weather protection & comfort
- Backpack with rain cover
- Dry bags or waterproof packing sacks
- Compact umbrella (useful in cities, use waterproof clothes in the mountains)
Safety & essentials
- Basic first aid kit + blister care
- Offline maps + backup navigation (map & compass)
- Headlamp (shorter daylight in autumn is important!)
- Power bank (cold weather drains batteries faster)
Optional but very useful
- Lightweight gaiters (mud, wet grass, or early snow)
- Sitting pad (for cold or wet ground during breaks)
- Thermos (great for warm drinks in colder conditions)
By now, you’ve seen that packing for Scandinavia isn’t about following one fixed list. The key is understanding how to adapt your gear to changing conditions, different seasons and the type of adventure you’re planning.
Whether you’re exploring cities, hiking in the mountains or heading out on a multi-day expedition, the same core principles always apply: dress in layers, prepare for rain and wind, and don’t underestimate the cold even in summer.
To make everything easier to remember, here’s a simple overview of the most important packing principles and differences between seasons.
| Layer | Purpose | Example Items |
|---|---|---|
| Base layer | Moisture control | Merino T-shirt, thermal leggings |
| Mid layer | Insulation | Fleece jacket, wool sweater |
| Shell layer | Protection | Waterproof jacket & pants |
| Insulation layer | Extra warmth (resting) | Down jacket |
| Extreme layer (winter) | Maximum warmth | Heavy down jacket |
| Season | Weather Conditions | Key Clothing | Special Gear |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Mild to warm (5–30°C), rain, wind | Light layers + fleece + waterproof jacket | Sunglasses, sunscreen |
| Autumn | Cool, wet, windy | Warm layers + waterproof gear | Microspikes (early ice) |
| Winter | Freezing, snow, strong wind | Multiple insulation layers + down jacket | Skis, snowshoes, pulka |
| Spring | Cold, mixed snow & melt | Layering system + warm jacket | Microspikes, waterproof boots |
| Activity | Recommended Footwear |
|---|---|
| City travel | Comfortable sneakers |
| Summer hiking | Waterproof hiking boots |
| Autumn/Spring hiking | Waterproof boots + microspikes |
| Winter travel | Insulated winter boots |
| Snow travel | Ski boots or snowshoe-compatible boots |
Packing for Scandinavia isn’t about bringing more things – it’s about bringing the right things. I learnt it the hard way, by making many mistakes, but you are lucky to find my article so it will be much smoother for you. No matter if you visit in summer, winter or shoulder season, the key is always the same: be prepared for changing conditions.
Weather in Scandinavia can shift quickly, especially in the mountains, and the difference between an amazing adventure and an uncomfortable one often comes down to having the right layers and equipment. If you should learn one thing after reading my article: It is the layering system. It helps you to be flexible and with proper layering system, you will never underestimate wind, rain or cold temperatures.
Once you’re prepared, you can fully focus on what really matters – enjoying some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Have a great time on Scandinavian beaches, in the cities and especially in the wilderness.
For summer in Scandinavia, pack lightweight clothing but always include warm and waterproof layers. Even during warm days, evenings can be cold and weather can change quickly. A typical setup includes merino base layers, a fleece, a light down jacket and a waterproof jacket. If you plan to hike, proper boots and extra layers are essential.
Not necessarily. Summer temperatures in Scandinavian cities often range between 15–30°C, but conditions can vary a lot depending on location and altitude. Coastal areas and mountains are usually cooler, and sudden weather changes are common, so it’s important to be prepared for both warm and cold conditions.
Yes. Waterproof clothing is essential. Rain and strong wind can occur at any time of the year, especially in Norway and mountainous areas. A good waterproof jacket (and ideally pants) will keep you dry and comfortable during your trip.
The most effective approach is layering. Instead of one heavy jacket, wear multiple layers:
1. base layer (moisture-wicking, ideally merino wool)
2. mid-layer (fleece or wool for insulation)
3. outer shell (waterproof and windproof)
4. insulation layer (down jacket for colder conditions)
This system allows you to adjust easily to changing weather.
It depends on your activities. For cities, comfortable walking shoes are enough. For hiking, waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended because trails can be wet, rocky and uneven. In winter, insulated boots are necessary for cold and snow.
Avoid heavy cotton clothing, which stays wet and cold for a long time. Also skip bulky items you won’t use – overpacking is one of the most common mistakes. Instead, focus on a lightweight layering system and versatile gear that works in multiple conditions.
Yes, a down or insulated jacket is highly recommended in all seasons. Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly in the evening or in the mountains. In winter, a warm insulated jacket is essential for safety during breaks or low activity.
Use dry bags or waterproof packing sacks inside your backpack. Even with a rain cover, moisture can get inside during heavy rain. Keeping key items like clothes and sleeping gear dry is essential for comfort and safety.
Yes, but preparation is important. Many trails are accessible, but weather conditions can change quickly and some areas are remote. Beginners should start with shorter hikes, check forecasts carefully and bring proper gear.
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