You've more than likely been planning your Northern Lights trip for months, even years. If so, you may be aware that taking the right clothing will be paramount to your experience. The environment you will be stepping into may be very different to what you are used to, and it is difficult to avoid the temptation to pack every warm piece of clothing you own just in case!
The contents of your suitcase will certainly depend on the destination you are visiting on your Northern Lights trip, but, while it is important to stay warm, it is also important to pack sensibly. For example if you are heading to Sweden, you could be facing temperatures as cold as minus 30 degrees, so you'll need proper Arctic gear (but this will be provided by your tour operator). But if you're heading on a Northern Lights trip to Iceland, temperatures are far milder and, like a harsh English winter, hovering just below freezing, the official advice is to layer your clothing and take good waterproofs and sturdy boots. The Essentials While you certainly do have to pack a few essentials for a Northern Lights trip to Swedish Lapland, there is absolutely no need to go out to an expensive outdoor shop and buy endless amounts of cold weather clothing. The two primarily important pieces of clothing are thermal insulated overalls and good quality thermal winter boots, which will be provided if you're travelling with a reputable tour operator. However, as the plane lands on ice you will still need sensible boots and a warm coat before you get to the hotel to be kitted up in your arctic gear. Boots need to be warm, sturdy and have a good sole that will help you stay upright in the snow. Of course, gloves, scarves and hats are important too. Some people prefer mittens to keep their hands warm and the great thing about these is that they accommodate hand warmer packs should you suffer from cold extremities. Remember that depending on when you are travelling, the weather can be unpredictable. From December to February the weather is much colder and you'll need to be prepared for this. Full winter clothing under your overalls is a must, and thermal underwear, jogging bottoms, and a couple of fleeces are the minimum you require. Obviously in the warmer months less is needed underneath the overalls. It is also worth bearing in mind that you may be engaging in outdoor activities, and if you are snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or husky sledding you need to make sure that you can move freely in what you are wearing. To Summarise Don't feel pressured into thinking you need a hundred and one items when really you could make do with just a few! Make a list and stick to it. Start with a couple of base layers that include thermal underwear and socks, and middle layers should include a fleece sweater or a turtle neck top, wooly socks and cotton or fleece trousers. If they are made from wool as it keeps you warmest and doesn't cause sweating, these base and middle layers are best. As well, you'll need your good sturdy boots.