Packing for Norway in winter has been my most requested post for ages now, which makes sense considering how not knowing what to wear in Norway could absolutely ruin your trip. Norway is a country where you want to spend a lot of time outside in the beautiful nature, and that’s going to be hard to enjoy if you are freezing or wet. But don’t worry! I’ve now lived in Norway for over nine years, high up in the mountains of Telemark, far north in Tromsø, and in the stormy west in Bergen, so I am a pro at dressing for winter in Norway.
When it comes to packing for winter in Norway, there are a few essentials that might not be obvious to people who aren’t used to -20 degree days, and there are also a bunch of things that people might think they need but in fact are totally unnecessary.
The last bit might be the light packer in me talking, but hey, when you’re cramming your suitcase full of winter gear it’s nice to be able to leave a few things at home, right?
And if you want more in depth Norway advice, I’ve also gathered all my best tips for planning an incredible trip through both Southern and Northern Norway in two 95-page ebooks that cover everything you’ll need to know to plan a Norway trip that you will love. You can purchase my Norway travel guides here.
Thermal base layers
I’m putting this first on the list, because a warm base layer (especially leggings/tights) is the single most important thing to have on your Norway winter packing list – and I think it’s one of the things people most often forget!
When I lived in the mountains, between the months of November and March, I would pretty much always wear woolen tights or leggings under my jeans. Personally I go for woolen tights most of the time, but microfiber, fleece, or silk will all work. In fact even wearing a pair of cotton leggings under your trousers will keep you so much warmer. It’s all about those layers!
But if you want to look Norwegian, pretty much every woman (and many men) in Norway owns a set of Kari Traa wool underwear. The quality is incredible and the patterns are so Norwegian.
And if I’m going to be outside in the cold, I usually opt for a thin, 100% cashmere sweater (I own a couple of these ones) under my other sweater(s) because, oh my goodness, so soft – and warm!
And the nice thing about wool is that you barely ever have to wash it, so you could totally get away with wearing the same cashmere sweater everyday on your trip if you simply air it out each night.
I would aim to bring at least two base layer tops and two pairs of leggings/tights, or possibly more, depending on how long you’ll be here for.
Wool
Wool wool wool – that’s all you should be packing for your trip to Norway.
Okay, not really. But also sort of really.
Wool is so warm, plus it doesn’t retain odors so it’s great for traveling. Basically I would say don’t bother packing any sweaters that aren’t at least 15% wool.
You could get away with just a couple of sweaters for a weeklong trip if you don’t mind rewearing them. And if you want to look like a local, I can highly recommend the Dale of Norway sweaters. Amazon carries Dale of Norway sweaters here, or you can find them on Zappos here. I have this one, this one, and this one. And I’ve shared more of where I buy my favorite Nordic sweaters here.
A really good hat & scarf
One of the worst things I know is wearing a loosely knit hat on a cold, windy day. I especially love wool hats with fleece lining because less wind can get through and they won’t be itchy.
Also, not go total hat nerd on you, but I’ve found that the hats with ear flaps actually aren’t as warm because the flaps don’t cover your ears very tightly unless you tie them under your chin.
And look for a cosy scarf that you won’t mind burying your face into. It costs more, but a cashmere scarf will be super warm and soft.
Gloves or mittens
I mean, duh.
It’s really worth investing in some thermal Gore-Tex gloves, and I’d actually also recommend bringing some thinner touchscreen gloves so that you can use your smartphone without taking off your gloves.
But if you’re going somewhere really cold, a pro tip from Norway is to wear mittens instead of gloves. Mittens will keep your hands much warmer than gloves, though of course they’re a bit less practical. But worth it for the warmth! These mittens would be perfect, and they’re so pretty.
A winter parka
A good quality winter parka will cost you a lot, so I would say if you don’t already own a parka you can actually get away with a cheaper parka. You don’t need goose down or real fur to keep you warm. Save the money and invest in some woolen layers and winter boots instead.
The truth is, a lot of Norwegians don’t even bother wearing winter coats. And no, it’s not because they’re superhuman Vikings (though a lot of them do happen to be superhuman Vikings as well) but because they prefer to wear a bunch of thick woolen sweaters instead, with a windbreaker on top if it’s very snowy or windy. Norwegians know that several layers will always be warmer than one thick layer, thanks to the air trapped between each layer.
But you’re not Norwegian, so you probably will want to have a winter coat. But you also don’t need to spend more than $50 on your parka if you’re never going to wear it again, you know?
Winter boots
If you’re only going to be in cities then you can get away with thinner boots by wearing really thick wool socks in them, but if you’re going to be walking through lots of snow you’ll want some real winter boots.
Make sure you have plenty of room in your boots though! Tight boots will actually make you colder, as air between your socks and boots creates warmth. So size up, especially if you want to wear thick socks.
If you’re in Norway in the middle of winter they don’t really need to be waterproof, but if the temperature might rise above zero then you definitely want something that won’t let any slush in.
I wear these Sorels , which I love because they don’t have fur on them so I can wear them in the spring and autumn as well.
And then I actually also have these Sorels as a heavier duty version when I’m in the Arctic watching the northern lights.
Ice grips
Ice grips can be a real life saver on icy days. I wouldn’t say they’re essential for your Norway packing list, but they’d definitely be a good addition if you think you’ll be somewhere icy!
My dad actually just broke his wrist while visiting Norway over Christmas when he slipped and fell on some ice – and the next time I saw him after the fall he was wearing ice grips on his shoes! I believe that’s what people call living and learning.
Some heavy duty moisturizer
If you’re not used to cold weather then your skin might just go a bit insane when you get to Norway. Like, in the rest of the world I totally have oily skin, but in Norway it’s quite dry. So you might want to bring a better moisturizer than you’re used to using.
Now, there’s actually a huge debate amongst Nordics about moisturizer. I’ve had a lot of people tell me not to use water based moisturizer because it will freeze in the cold, whereas others say that’s complete nonsense. From my experience, just don’t apply moisturizer right before going outside. Give it an hour or so to absorb and then you should be fine.
But! I recently started using face oil and OH MY GOODNESS IT IS LIKE MAGIC. I use this one from Clarins and it seriously transformed my skin. I still use moisturizer afterwards, but this would work fine on its own and then you wouldn’t have to worry about it freezing when you go outside, because it’s oil. You can buy it at Sephora here, or on Amazon here.
And if your skin does freakout from the cold, don’t worry! In about a week the flakes will disappear and you’ll have the softest skin of your life. Seriously, some time out in the cold is the best facial I know!
Snow pants
The truth is, a lot of places in Norway don’t get that cold. The coast has that whole Gulf Stream thing going on, so winter temperatures often don’t get much below zero. But if you’re going to be inland, in the mountains, or in the far north, you might need some extra winter gear.
I wear snow pants a lot in the winter, even if I’m not skiing. In fact I was wearing them when I got stuck in that blizzard on the mountaintop, and I was very happy to have them on then! They don’t need to be anything fancy – some cheap Amazon snow pants will do the job just fine, though personally I adore my Patagonia snow pants and definitely think they’re worth the investment.
Camera + tripod
Okay, obviously you’re going to want to bring a camera with you to Norway (unless you’re just using your phone, which is also fine!). But if you want capture photos of the northern lights it’s also important to have a tripod, as you need a really long shutter speed to capture the lights, so you can’t move your camera.
I use this tripod and love it, and I would recommend this phone tripod if you’ll just be photographing with your phone.
Northern Lights guide
Speaking of the northern lights, if you’re coming to Norway for the northern lights, I’ve written an in depth ebook covering all aspects of planning your northern lights trip, including the best places in Norway (and the Nordics) to see the northern lights, the best time to see the northern lights, my top northern lights accommodation choices, tour options, how to chase the northern lights (including which apps I use), how to photograph and film the northern lights, what to pack for your trip, and other exciting Arctic activities to try on your trip up North.
If you want to ensure you have the best northern lights trip possible, you can purchase the ebook here. Your purchase includes both a high resolution file as well as a low resolution file that you can keep on your phone (the only real difference is the photos will be a bit blurry).
Reflectors
Winter in Norway is dark, and all Norwegians wear reflectors at night. In Oslo and Bergen you might be able to get away without them, but if you’ll be in any smaller towns or the country side it’s seriously dangerous to walk around without reflectors.
Most people where I live wear reflector vests, but you could also just keep a couple of small reflectors clipped to your jacket zipper or pockets.
Headlamp
Speaking of the dark, you might want to pack a headlamp as well, especially if you’ll be in the countryside. This is also really handy for setting up your tripod for northern lights photos at night.
Power bank
If you’re planning on using your electronics outside a lot (or really at all), consider bringing extra batteries and a powerbank for your phone, because batteries have an annoying way of losing all their power really quickly in the cold.
Hand and foot warmers
And while I’ve never actually seen a Norwegian use these, if you’re not used to the cold it could be a good idea to bring a pack of hand and foot warmers. They’re lightweight and really do keep you warm, so you might as well bring a box or two with you on your trip!
Travel adaptor
And if you’re coming from outside of Europe, remember to buy an adapter for your electric devices! I absolutely love this travel adapter as it can be used in most countries and has usb slots for charging.
What to Buy in Norway
In general it’s best to buy most of your winter gear outside of Norway. Boots, hats, gloves, and snow pants are all very expensive in Norway. But there are a few things that are worth getting here.
Wool socks
I am obsessed with the wool socks sold at Fretex, which is the Norwegian version of the Salvation Army. I can’t remember exactly how much they cost, but they’re very affordable, and so, so warm.
Fretex also sells wool insoles for your shoes/boots if you find that your boots aren’t keeping you warm. And while you’re there see if they have any good second-hand woolen sweaters.
For anyone who’s been here in the winter, do you have anything to add to this list?
Visiting Senja, Norway: The Local Island Favorite
Nynke says
Thanks for this post! I had been wondering about that moisturizer thing…
Wool makes me so itchy! and I’m so suggestible that reading your texts about wool made me really itchy, too… The good news for people like me is that thick fleece sweaters keep you warm enough as well, especially when paired with a thicker windbreaker/autumn coat. Instead of woollen socks, I wear thin cotton socks on my skin, and thick cotton hiking socks around them (but if I’m wearing cotton liners, I might as well wear woollen socks around them, I guess!). These all keep me happy even at minus 15 Celsius, but I have to admit I’ve never tested them at minus 40!
I don’t own snow boots, but my regular Meindl mountain hiking boots have always done the job well. If there is a lot of snow, you may want to combine them with gaiters or even leg warmers extended over the tops of your shoes.
Silvia says
Haha I do agree that wool can get really itchy – I think maybe I’ve just gotten used to it. Early last year Dan and I were watching a movie one night and I was SO antsy and couldn’t sit still and then I realized that I was wearing only wool and it was too itchy. So wearing something else as the bottom layer is definitely a good idea.
I don’t own any fleece, so that’s good to know! And I also like your tip about the gaiters/leg warmers.
Rachel says
I live in my thermal leggings, I have a couple of pairs of merino wool ones and they are amazing, plus being wool you can get away without washing them too often.
I’ve been advised up here that cotton is a no-no, stick to wool or technical synthetics.
My Norwegian wool socks are the warmest I have! Love them!
I’m absolutely with you on cashmere, it’s so warm, lightweight, packable and layerable!
Chris acquired an amazing thick wool Norwegian jumper but he says it’s too warm to wear! Haha! Maybe in the spring he’ll wear it instead of his coat. I think he’ll miss having pockets though!
See you very soon!
Silvia says
Haha Dan says the same thing about his Norwegian sweater! You’ll have to attach some pockets on it for Chris so he can wear it as a coat 😀 See you soooooon!
Megan says
You have no idea how many emails I get asking what to pack for a Norwegian winter and I am so glad I can just send people this post now. Takk!
I can’t believe your dad broke his wrist! Yikes!!! When I first moved to Norway I invested in a set of brodder for my boots and I was made fun of so bad as it was only foreigners and old people rockin them (what is wrong with Norwegians being able to walk on all types of ice…. ugh). But it seriously helped me so much my first year. I finally traded them in and learned to walk on ice my second year (ahem… thanks Oslo and your heated sidewalks).
Agree big time with mobile power bank and parka. I never owned a real parka until Norway. I just got rid of it in Kazakhstan as it was ripping apart, but it kept me so warm for years. It was so heavy that I could have worn nothing underneath and would have been fine, even when it was -20C outside. And it didn’t contain any animal in it- which is impressive.
The thing I learned quickly in Norway is that gloves suck. Mittens are where it’s at. I am sure gloves help if you’re playing sport or something, but just for a casual stroll in the city, mittens keep one 10x warmer. Whenever I tell people this they think I’m stupid. Then I make them try it and they are amazed haha!
Great post!
Silvia says
Yeah, I’m just waiting until Rauland gets some heated sidewalks! Um, super fascinating about mittens though! I own a pair that I rarely use, but I am definitely going to bring them out the next time the temperatures drop.
And lol, I was actually giving an argument for whey NOT to bring a parka, but thanks for proving me wrong! Haha no, I agree that a warm parka is the coziest thing in the world and I often keep mine on inside as well when the cabin is extra chilly (though I do think it’s an unnecessary investment if you’re only visiting somewhere cold for a short while).
Megan says
Yes definitely try mittens 😛 They were lifechanging for me. The parka thing is because I am from the south and I don’t know how to dress for the weather. Once I found out parkas could actually provide warm that my tanktops couldn’t, my life was changed for the better 😛 Oslo winters were no joke. I remember walking to work in -23C pre-parka days. I don’t think anything can keep ya warm in that weather when the feels like temperature is -35C LOL.
Silvia says
Oooh I forget that you are from the south! When I was in Germany there was another exchange student from Arizona and the “winter coat” she had brought with her was basically something I would where in the summer in Norway, and I think all her sweaters were acrylic? Basically she was very, very cold all year.
Megan says
My Pittsburghese parents instilled nothing in me when it came to dressing for the weather. I blame them 😉 PS: Belarus just opened up. I think our meeting is going to happen.
Rosie says
I went to Reykjavik over Christmas and I would have been incredibly cold without my base layer. I completely underestimated how useful it would actually be and my Mum had to talk me into it; I’m so glad she did! I definitely need to try out some Norwegian socks, because we went out looking for the northern lights one night and even with two pairs of socks on and warm, snuggly boots, my feet were freezing!
Definitely with you on the power bank too. My phone battery just kept going so fast and randomly.
Silvia says
Ugh having frozen feet is the worst! Though hunting for northern lights at least makes it worth it 🙂
Danielle Cemprola says
This is great! I just went to Central Europe and could have used a list like this – I live in South Carolina and was a little lost on what to pack! Packing for winter can be really challenging, especially if you want to keep everything in a backpack or carry-on. I actually just published a post about how I did it and I would love to hear your tips, too!
Gemma says
I’m half Norwegian so I’m desperate to visit Norway. I love your tips on what to bring with you when you go! I went to Austria in January last year and brought very similar things to what you mentioned.
Gemma x
The Gem Agenda
Katie @ the tea break project says
Fab post – I’ve always been curious what to pack for a properly cold winter. I’m desperate to visit the high arctic someday – and to visit the Antarctic as well. Though I definitely need to invest in some good warm knits first 🙂
Neni says
Every time I´m in northern Europe I live in thermal clothes. 😀
Couldn´t imagine going out with them.
Bea @ Our Wanders says
Oh this post comes just at the right time for me! 🙂 Because the temperature dropped below -15/-20 during last week in Hungary what is very unusual here even in January. But it’s not just me, several swans got frozen into lakes during the past week.
But otherwise lakes and rivers and waterfalls are frozen and I so want to see them! I don’t even remember I’ve ever seen ice in the Danube. Just this freaking cold… Thanks for your tips! I don’t even have to go to Norway to make use of them now. 😀
Ida says
Hi
Great post. As a norwegian I swear by woll everyday during winter. What I have experienced tourist do “wrong” when they visit is to pack on to much cotton layers, espessially in their shoes, not leving enough room for air. That is the trick, one or two layers of woll in big enough shoes 😉
I love you blog, its so much fun reading an outsiders view on Norway and norwegians.
Silvia says
Ooh you’re right! I always buy my boots extra big because my mom always said I needed room for air, haha.
Jessica C says
PERFECT! Thanks for this, I want to spend Christmas in Norway this year and have been thinking about what to bring. I have leggings, but not wool ones, but I can layer I think because I have different kinds. The base sweater is something people have been mentioning for a while to travel in the cold and I have yet to buy one! Definitely want to grab one before I go north. Great advice. 🙂
Silvia says
A cashmere base sweater is amazing 🙂 Christmas in Norway is going to be magical for you, that’s so exciting!
Taís says
Great post, Silvia! I was born in Brazil, now I live in Ireland.. And I definitely don`t know how to wear properly for a winter below 0. I never forget my first layer, but some details is always good to read not to forget.. first time when I went to Iceland during winter I had a friend to help what to bring, otherwise I would freeze there as I didn`t really know what to pack! haha
Silvia says
Haha yeah, I’ve seen some foreign visitors in Norway who are SO cold, but just because they didn’t know what to wear.
Esther says
Great Post, I’ve learned so much!! I am visiting Norway in April. Now I have a better idea of what I need to pack, since I’am “A pack-Rat”.!!
Silvia says
Oh that’s awesome!
Jana says
Glad I found this list. I’ll be in Bergen and Oslo the week before Christmas this year (2017). I’ve been worried about what to expect weather wise and what to wear. I’m from NY so used to the snow. I think I might be OK now that I’ve read this. Thanks.
Silvia says
Weather wise I actually think Bergen and Oslo are really similar to NY, so you should be totally fine!
Willa Rabang says
So happy I came across this post. I’ll be coming to Norway as far as Tromso by late December this year. I been collecting a lot of winter stuff but still not so sure which ones I really need for my trip. Thanks!
Digger says
Really helpful post. I’ve been to Norway a few times with my Norwegian wife, but never in the winter. Of course, that is all changing in two weeks!
Joy @MyTravelingJoys says
So glad google immediately pulled up your post! We’re travelling to Oslo and Trondheim in mid-December and then onto Bucharest and Sofia so I imagine we’ll need warm layers for every place. I’ll have to check out the Uniqlo stuff here in London and pair with my Aussie wool socks. 😉
Thx so much!
Silvia says
The Uniqlo stuff is so good! And of course wool, wool, wool – tons of wool. Have a great trip!
BM says
Hi,
Cheers for the beautiful and helpful article. So what would you suggest to pack for a week trip Dec 10-17 in Oslo & Bergen for a man though?
I have base layers, woollen socks, scarves, sweaters, fleece, mittens, jeans, down jacket, beanies. I have thin water resistant rain jacket from Marmot. I sometimes put it on my down jacket (it makes me look big though). I live in Kansas so far we didn’t get any snow yet. Any help would be appreciated. Cheers.
Silvia says
That sounds perfect! I would also try to wear waterproof boots – you can always make them warmer with wool socks if they’re not for super cold temperatures, but you definitely want them to be waterproof. Neither Oslo nor Bergen gets too cold – they’re often above freezing in December, so you should be fine. Enjoy your trip!
BM says
Cheers for the reply. Yep, I got the Sorel Cheyenne boots this week. So I think that covers that! 🙂
Silvia says
Perfect!
ashlee says
Any glove liner suggestions or mittens? The ones you posted are sold out
Silvia says
I really love the glove/mitten combinations, like these ones here: http://rstyle.me/~acPBR
Marcellina Giam says
Glad to have read your post and found the advice useful. I am staying in Singapore and will be visiting Norway early March 2017. Never experience anything colder than 10 Celsius and wonder what are the basic winter wear that I should bring to ensure having a great holiday.
Silvia says
Glad it was helpful! Definitely try to bring lots of wool with your – or at least the heattech stuff from Uniqlo – as a base layer. And good boots! I’m sure you’ll have an amazing time.
Valerio says
Hi Silvia,
Thanks a lot for the article, I found it super helpful!
I’ll be visiting Norway (Tromso) this winter and hopefully see the northern lights.
I’m trying to understand what to pack and what I might be missing.
I have a pair of timberland boots (the classic ones https://s7d2.scene7.com/is/image/dkscdn/16TLDMCN6PRMMWHT4FBO_Wheat_is/) do you think they would keep my feet warm, paired with a couple of wool socks?
Also, will I look like a fool/tourist if I take with my my parka?
https://www.dhresource.com/0x0s/f2-albu-g4-M01-F2-C4-rBVaEVfoonCAU0h5AAEZ-QjnIdI243.jpg/long-jacket-men-arctic-anorak-beige-down.jpg
I’ll make sure I pack my Neutrogena hand cream!
Silvia says
Haha no, most Norwegians in Tromsø will also be wearing parkas, so you won’t look like a tourist. That one looks perfect! The Timberlands could be okay if your feet aren’t too sensitive to the cold. Just be careful that your socks aren’t too thick – if you don’t have space in your shoes for air it actually makes your feet much colder!
Valerio says
Thanks Silvia!
I actually do have cold feet….I might just buy a cheap pair of snow boots, I don’t want to take any chance and risk ruining my holiday because I’m freezing!
I saw few options from Decathlon and Trespass (under £50) and might check them out in the shops.
really looking forward to visiting Norway!
Emma Rieley says
Hi, thanks for this post, was a real help when shopping for things from Tromsø. As I was on a budget I bought ski pants and a ski jacket, I’ve got loads of wool mix base layers and wool mix socks. I can’t go 100% wool as I itch way too much but I’m hoping this will all be ok. I’ve got plenty of fleece lined tops but think I’ll treat myself to a Norwegian jumper…why not eh?! Just hope I have enough to keep me warm. This is my first trip to anywhere not in the low to mid 20°c so this should be interesting!! I’ve grips were my first purchase though…I’m like Bambi with ice!! I did buy some North Face boots as I saw someone had worn them to Iceland and they were affordable…will these be OK with my thick socks?
http://www.very.co.uk/the-north-face-thermoballtrade-lacenbspii-print/1600173599.prd
I also got this Regatta coat for Christmas but not sure whether to take this or not, what do you think?
https://www.regatta.com/lucetta-breathable-waterproof-insulated-high-shine-parka-jacket-majolica-blue/?gclid=Cj0KCQiA7dHSBRDEARIsAJhAHwg9QRc5n1M-6j_1FjsZnxDrKfNwP8WARb6Qc4enZfJk_PYpowFeMgsaAhEqEALw_wcB
I can’t wait to visit, 23 days and counting!!!
Fernando says
Hi Silvia! I´m planning my trip to see the northern lights with my girlfriend in November. We are thinking of the clothes now.
Would you say that these are ok?
https://articulo.mercadolibre.com.ar/MLA-673372605-conjunto-termico-moto-camiseta-calza-balaclava-multi–_JM
Have in mind that we are from Buenos Aires, and in winter it can go to 0° as very cold, and with no snow at all!
Do you know if you can rent winter clothes in Norway or Sweden?
Thank you so much!! You are of great help!
Khue Nguyen says
Hi Silvia,
Very detailed and useful article about things to pack for Norway Winter. Do you think we need to have a pair of sunglasses as I do think the sun will be much stronger when you at the snow?
Silvia says
I rarely wear sunglasses in the winter, but if your eyes are sensitive then bringing a pair would be a good idea!
Gayathri Sankar says
Hi Silvia
Totally in love with your insights into Norway!!! My husband and I are so bewitched by the beauty of Norwegian winter that have been planning a trip for quite sometime…However, since this is going to be our maiden venture so far out north & since we live in the Middle East, will it be a foolish idea to do our first trip in the thick of winter? I have to admit we so badly want to have an enchanting Christmas in magical Norway. Pls share your thoughts on the same.I look fwd to hearing from you.
Warmly,
Gayathri
Silvia says
I know people who came from warm climates to Norwegian winter and loved it. As long as you invest in some warm clothing you will be fine – and Norway in the winter really is spectacular!
Shivani Prakash says
Hi Silvia!
Many thanks for sharing your experience and tips about living in Norway. I’m from India and will be shifting to Oslo this August to study. I have been trying to figure where I can buy some good quality thermal base layers in Oslo. Can you suggest any local brand for the same?
Looking forward to your reply!
Best,
Shivani
Silvia says
All of the local sports shops will have good quality thermals. You can also get them at Cubus.
Katty says
Thank you Silvia for this very informative post. I booked a ticket to Alesund from Florida for late march/early april 2019 and on my search on how to pack properly i came across your page. I really enjoyed reading your post about what to do in Alesund. I have only booked a hotel in Alesund for now but you have given great suggestions on how to get around and visit other cities nearby. I am traveling alone for the first time, and I am trying to learn some basic/conversational norwegian but I assume most people there speak English. Is it convinient to have access to ATM’s or minibanks while in Alesund or other surrounding areas? I know there is a limit on how much cash I can travel with and although I have credit cards, I’d like to be able to withdraw cash in emergency situations as well. When packing were you able to fit most of your things on a carry on? Or did you also have to check additional bags? Thank you for your help, it is truly appreciated.
tammy says
Nice post. thanks for sharing
Maddy says
Thanks for this! I’m just wondering…do teenagers wear puffy down jackets in Norway and Sweden? I’m getting cold weather clothes together for my two teenager daughters. We have to pack light, and it will be cold for us (from Australia), and I know we’ll be spotted as tourists anyway, but I don’t want my girls to feel TOO daggy (uncool). Any advice?
Amy says
Ohh I defenitly made that misstake, buying an expensive wintercoat for over my wolen layers before I travelled to siberia and mongokia during the winter. It was the biggest waist of money and space in my backpack during this trip. It was way to warm and I was sweaty all the time! Most of the time I hiked with zipper open or even without the wintercoat and that with -25 degrees.
EL says
I’ve read many packing guides for Norway today and this is the best one. Thank you for putting this all together for us. Many good suggestions. I especially appreciate the part about not needing a parka, and what to buy outside of the country and what to buy within.
Ashlea says
This is the most useful winter (extreme) packing list I’ve seen, thank you!
As an Australian living in the tropics, dressing for a real winter (with snow!) is a complete mystery. This post helped me survive travelling in Norway and Sweden in February.
rohit aggarwal says
thank you heartmybackpack for giving me wonderful information
Pierre Beringer says
I am planning to go to Norway during Christmas to visit my daughter. Does it worth it in spite of the night. Can we see the landscape with the moon light. Is apart the northen light will we enjoyed our first trip to this beautiful country.
Thank you for your insight
Silvia says
Yes, even during polar night we still get a few hours of daylight (except Svalbard) so you can still see a lot.
Nikolas says
Hello and thanks for all the wonderfull information! What about polyester base layers, are they usefull or should be avoided completely?
Silvia says
I avoid them, but if you can’t wear wool or silk then they’re still a good option. Any layer is better than no layer, as the trapped air between layers adds lots of warmth.