Packing list for Winter trips in Central Sweden
Please make sure that you and your travel companions read through this guide carefully.
What will the weather be like?
During most winters we have a snow cover from the end of November until mid March. However, the changing climate brings milder temperatures and the weather has become more unpredictable. During the coldest period in December and January we expect temperatures between -0 C to -15°C (32°F to 5°F) but it may well drop to -20°C (-4°F).
Recommended packing list
Make sure you stay warm during the entire trip. This guide describes how you can dress for our Winter trips in Central Sweden. Our best advice is to bring several layers of warm, comfortable inner wear such as long johns, long sleeved shirts, jumpers and trousers.
CHOOSING THE BEST BAG
We recommend a large backpack or duffel bag as you will have to carry your own bag for 300 meters from the cars to the lodge. If it is more convenient you may travel with a regular suitcase as it is not far to walk. Also bring a small daypack to be able to carry a water bottle and any extra clothes that you may want to bring on a day hike.
Feet
Two layers of socks: Thin liner socks + thick socks. Choose wool or synthetic, not cotton. Plus an extra set of socks for when your feet are damp.
Winter boots: Comfortable and warm boots. Choose one or two sizes larger than you normally wear so that you can wear two layers of socks and still have plenty of space to allow air to circulate. You should be able to wiggle your toes. If you are looking to invest in new Winter boots, some good budget options are Viking Trophy Icefighter, Muchboot Arctic, Avignon Polar or similar.
LOWER BODY
Base layer: long johns (wool or synthetic)
Middle layer: heavy wool (wool terry) or fleece trousers.
Outer layer: trekking or skiing trousers. If these are insulated you don’t need the middle layer.
Optional: snow gaiters. Will prevent snow entering your boots. Not needed if your outer layer trousers are tights around your ankle.
UPPER BODY
Base layer: long sleeved top or thermal base layer (wool or synthetic)
Middle layer: wool or fleece jacket
Outer layer: insulated jacket that protects you from wind, preferably hooded
Optional: Extra packable down jacket for when we are standing still
HEAD & HANDS
Winter hat: insulated that covers your ears. If you have a hooded jacket you can be fine with a thin hat
Inner mittens or gloves: liner mittens or gloves to wear inside your mittens
Mittens: gloves with thumbs, preferably oversized. We don’t recommend finger gloves as they are not as warm
Balaclava or buff (neck gaiter)
OTHER EQUIPMENT
Sleeping bag (let us know if you are bringing your own, otherwise we will bring one for you)
Bed sheet + pillow case
Backpack: for day trips carrying meals, extra layers of clothing, snacks etc
Thermos drinking bottle
Towel + extra towel to use in the sauna
Slippers for indoors
Journal and pen
Your favourite snacks
Some typical food item from your country as a contribution to one of the meals
ALSO REMEMBER
Credit card (you won’t need cash, all places will accept VISA and Mastercard at least)
Passport (check validity)
Train/airline ticket (check so that you arrive in time)
Phone + charger
Electricity adapter: Sweden uses the Europlug (type C and F) and 230 volts
Your own travel insurance (usually included in your house insurance)
OTHER EQUIPMENT YOU MAY WANT TO BRING
A feel-good book
First aid kit and personal medicines
Flipflops for ice bathing
Camera with extra batteries
Feel free to bring some fun game to play with other participants