December in Lapland: What to Wear to Stay Warm and Enjoy the Snow
In the Northern Hemisphere, December marks the start of winter. However, in Lapland, Finland, winter starts early. For those who plan to visit Lapland in December, packing appropriate clothes is crucial. In this article, we will guide you on what clothes to wear in Lapland in December, so you can spend more time enjoying the snowy winter wonderland and less time shivering in the cold.
Contents
Understanding Lapland’s Weather in December
Before we discuss what clothes to wear in Lapland in December, let’s first understand the weather. Lapland experiences subarctic climate conditions, characterized by long, cold winters and short, mild summers. In December, Lapland’s temperature can range from -20°C (-4°F) to -6°C (21.2°F). However, the weather can be unpredictable, and it’s not unusual to experience sudden changes in temperature, snowstorms, or brief sunny spells.
Layering is Key
When it comes to dressing for Lapland’s winter weather, layering is the key. To keep warm, use the layering technique: a base layer, mid-layer, and outer layer. The base layer should consist of thermal underwear made from merino wool or synthetic material that wicks moisture away from the skin.
The mid-layer serves as insulation to provide warmth. Fleece jackets or wool sweaters work best and can be easily removed if you get too hot.
The outer layer protects you from the elements and should be windproof, waterproof, and breathable. A good quality winter jacket or parka should suffice. Additionally, insulated pants, hats, gloves, and boots are a must to protect your extremities from the cold.
What to Pack for Lapland in December
Now that we know what type of clothes to wear in Lapland in December, let’s make a list of things to pack:
- Thermal underwear: pack at least two sets of thermal underwear to wear underneath your mid-layer clothing.
- Fleece jacket or wool sweater: choose one or two mid-layer items, depending on how cold you get. Make sure they fit comfortably under your outer layer jacket.
- Winter jacket or parka: invest in a high-quality, warm, windproof, and waterproof jacket or parka. Look for jackets with a hood that fits snugly against your head to prevent heat from escaping.
- Insulated pants: similar to your jacket, insulated pants should be waterproof, windproof and breathable. Look for pants that have a high waistband to keep your core warm.
- Hats and gloves: pack warm hats and gloves that cover your ears and fingers. Look for materials such as wool, fleece or synthetic material with an insulation layer.
- Winter boots: invest in high-quality insulated winter boots with a sturdy grip to avoid slipping on the ice. Look for boots that provide good ankle support and are waterproof.
Additional Tips
Before you go, consider these additional tips to help you make the most of your winter wonderland experience:
- Bring a backpack: pack your extra clothes, water, snacks, and other essentials in a backpack. It’s also a good idea to carry a small first aid kit and sunscreen.
- Check weather conditions: check the weather forecast and make sure to dress appropriately for the conditions. Pay attention to wind chill factor, which can make the temperature feel much colder than it actually is.
- Stay hydrated: Even though you may not feel thirsty, it’s important to drink water regularly to stay hydrated. Bring a thermos with warm tea or soup to keep you warm throughout the day.
- Take breaks: Don’t push yourself too hard and take regular breaks indoors to warm up.
- Plan activities: Lapland has a lot of winter activities to offer, such as dog sledding, reindeer sleigh rides, and skiing. Make sure to plan ahead and make reservations, as these activities can get booked up quickly.
