Traveling to an Arctic region like Norway, Iceland, Finland, or Alaska? Get ready for stunning winter landscapes, Northern Lights, and icy adventures! But before you go, packing for extreme cold is no joke—you need the right gear to stay warm, comfortable, and ready for anything.
I learned a lot during my Arctic trip to Tromsø, Norway, and here’s my ultimate guide on what to pack for freezing temperatures, plus a handy checklist to make sure you don’t forget anything!
🌡️ Layering is Key: The 3-Layer Rule
Surviving the Arctic cold is all about layering properly. This traps heat, wicks away moisture, and protects you from the wind and snow. Here’s what you need:
1️⃣ Base Layer (Moisture-Wicking & Warmth)
This layer keeps sweat off your skin so you don’t get cold. Avoid cotton—it absorbs moisture and stays wet!
✔️ Thermal leggings & long-sleeve top (Merino wool or synthetic)
✔️ Wool socks (Bring extra pairs!)
✔️ Silk or wool glove liners (Thin gloves you wear under heavier ones)
Below are the links to the winter gear I used, tested, and approved—get them on Amazon!
- Thermal long John underwear for women fleece line base layer – https://amzn.to/3ER0ipT
- Wool Socks: https://amzn.to/4hBTYBe
- Winter Leather Gloves for Women, Premium Sheepskin Warm Gloves for Cold Weather, Fleece Lining Touch Screen Glove –https://amzn.to/4kgrkrl
2️⃣ Mid Layer (Insulation & Heat Retention)
This layer keeps your body heat trapped inside.
✔️ Fleece or wool sweater
✔️ Down jacket or insulated puffer vest
3️⃣ Outer Layer (Protection from Wind, Snow & Rain)
This layer shields you from the elements like wind, snow, and freezing rain.
✔️ Waterproof & windproof winter coat (Down or synthetic insulation)
✔️ Waterproof snow pants (Essential for outdoor activities)
✔️ Insulated gloves or mittens (Mittens are warmer than gloves!)
✔️ Waterproof boots with thick soles (Snow boots with insulation are a must!)
Below are the links to the winter gear I used, tested, and approved—get them on Amazon!
- MOERDENG Women’s Waterproof Ski Jacket Warm Winter Snow Coat Mountain Windbreaker Hooded Raincoat Jacket – https://amzn.to/4h0uUD7
- Cycorld Women’s Snow Ski Pants Fleece Lined Waterproof Softshell Insulated Flare for Snowboarding Hiking Winter Outdoor – https://amzn.to/4hYEhUp
- EARLDE Women’s Snow Boot With Waterproof Lace Up Mid-Calf Outdoor Winter Deep Tread Rubber Sole –https://amzn.to/4gS3rn2
🧣 Must-Have Winter Accessories
Even if you have warm clothes, your extremities (head, hands, feet) will freeze first! Don’t forget these:
✔️ Thermal beanie (A good hat makes all the difference)
✔️ Neck gaiter or scarf (Protects your face from windburn)
✔️ Hand & foot warmers (Lifesavers when it gets extra cold!)
✔️ Sunglasses or goggles (Snow glare can be blinding!)
Below are the links to the winter gear I used, tested, and approved—get them on Amazon!
- FURTALK Winter Hats for Women Fleece Lined Beanie Knit Chunky Womens Snow Cap – https://amzn.to/4gEUBJb
- FURTALK Winter Scarf for Women Pashmina Shawl Wraps Cashmere Feel Warm Fashion Blanket Scarves-https://amzn.to/3EHUjDW
- HotHands Hand & Toe Warmers – Long Lasting Natural Odorless Air Activated Warmers – 24 pair hand warmers & 8 pair toe warmers- https://amzn.to/3CWz9S2
📷 Tech & Gadgets for Arctic Travel
Cold weather kills battery life fast! Keep your devices working with these:
✔️ Power bank (Your phone will drain quickly in the cold)
✔️ Waterproof phone case (For snow & ice protection) I use Go Pro- takes a clear video and pictures and durable in every seasons.
✔️ Camera with extra batteries (If you want to capture the Northern Lights, bring a real camera!) or Use your phone with night mode on.
✔️ Headlamp or flashlight (Winter in the Arctic = long nights)
Below are the links to the winter gear I used, tested, and approved—get them on Amazon!
- GoPro HERO13 Black Accessory Bundle – Includes The Handler, 2 Enduro Batteries, 2 Curved Adhesive Mounts, 64GB SanDisk MicroSD Card, and Carrying Case – https://amzn.to/3EGyoNn
- Charmast Portable Charger, 20000mAh Power Bank with Built-in Cables, 20W Fast Charging Travel Essential Battery Pack, LED Display Portable Charger Power Bank for iPhone, Phones, Tablets, More Devices –https://amzn.to/3X3uFzK
- Pelican 2 Pack Marine – IP68 Waterproof Phone Pouch (Regular Size) Floating Waterproof Phone Case – Beach Cruise Ship Travel Essentials – Works w/ All Phones – Detachable Lanyard – Black/Hi-Vis Yellow –https://amzn.to/4b5HeAh
- LHKNL Headlamp Flashlight, 1200 Lumen Ultra-Light Bright LED Rechargeable Headlight with White Red Light,2-Pack Waterproof Motion Sensor Head Lamp,8 Modes for Outdoor Camping Running Hiking Fishing –https://amzn.to/4gPUdHz
🧳 Other Travel Essentials
✔️ Lip balm & heavy-duty moisturizer (Cold air dries out your skin FAST)
✔️ Travel-size tissue packs (Your nose will run in the cold!)
✔️ Rehydration packets (Cold weather dehydrates you too)
✔️ Snacks (high-energy bars, chocolate, nuts)
✔️ Reusable water bottle (insulated) (Stay hydrated even in the cold!)
Below are the links to the winter travel essentials I used, tested, and approved—get them on Amazon!
- Aquaphor Lip Repair Stick, Lip Protectant, Moisturizing Lip Balm Multipack, 0.17 Oz, 2 Pack – https://amzn.to/4jZT3fE
- HydroMATE Electrolytes Powder Drink Mix Packets Hydration Accelerator Low Sugar Rapid Party Recovery Plus Vitamin C Variety Pack 30 Count –https://amzn.to/4hITKsi
- HYDRO CELL Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle with Straw – For Cold & Hot Drinks – Metal Vacuum Flask with Screw Cap and Modern Leakproof Sport Thermos for Kids & Adults (Graphite 40oz)- https://amzn.to/4jZgoOu
💡 Pro Packing Tips for Arctic Travel
✅ Pack in waterproof bags – Snow melts, and wet clothes = misery!
✅ Roll your clothes – Saves space and keeps things organized.
✅ Wear your bulkiest items on the plane – Saves suitcase space.
✅ Break in your boots before you go – Nothing worse than cold, blistered feet!
✅ Check airline baggage weight limits – Winter gear is heavy!
🎒 Arctic Packing Checklist
Clothing & Layers
✔️ Thermal base layers (top & bottom)
✔️ Wool socks (multiple pairs!)
✔️ Fleece or wool sweater
✔️ Insulated down jacket
✔️ Waterproof outer shell (coat & pants)
✔️ Insulated gloves/mittens + liners
✔️ Waterproof winter boots
✔️ Beanie, scarf, & neck gaiter
✔️ Hand & foot warmers
Accessories & Tech
✔️ Sunglasses or snow goggles
✔️ Power bank & extra camera batteries
✔️ Waterproof phone case
✔️ Headlamp or flashlight
✔️ Snow-friendly backpack
Toiletries & Health
✔️ Lip balm & moisturizer
✔️ Sunscreen (Yes, even in the cold!)
✔️ Tissues & rehydration packs
✔️ High-energy snacks
Bonus Essentials
✔️ Travel insurance (Arctic trips = unpredictable weather) Check my link to buy travel insurance HERE
✔️ Lightweight, packable towel (for spa or sauna visits!)
✔️ Notebook or journal (You’ll want to remember this trip!)
❄️ Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Arctic Like a Pro!
Packing for Arctic travel can feel overwhelming, but being prepared means you’ll stay warm and fully enjoy the experience. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, dog sledding, or exploring icy fjords, the right gear makes all the difference.
Most importantly: Don’t let the cold stop you from having an adventure of a lifetime! 🌍✨
Did I miss anything? What’s your go-to winter travel essential? Let me know in the comments!
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