Chasing the Northern Lights is an unforgettable experience, but the Arctic cold is no joke. While we include warm thermal suits, dressing appropriately is crucial to staying warm, comfortable, and able to fully enjoy the moment. Here’s our suggestions on what to wear on a Northern Lights tour in the Arctic.

The Importance of Layering

The key to staying warm in Arctic conditions is layering. This allows you to trap heat while also giving you the flexibility to adjust your clothing as needed. A good layering system consists of three main parts:

Base Layer (Sweat-Wicking Layer)

Your base layer should wick moisture away from your skin to keep you dry. Choose thermal or merino wool base layers instead of cotton, which retains moisture and can make you feel colder.

Middle Layer (Insulating Layer)

The middle layer’s job is to trap heat. Fleece, down, or synthetic insulated jackets and pants work well for this. A thick wool sweater or an insulated jacket provides excellent warmth.

Outer Layer (Windproof & Waterproof Layer)

Your outer layer protects against wind, snow, and moisture. A high-quality, insulated winter jacket and waterproof ski pants are essential to keeping the cold at bay.

Essential Clothing Items

To ensure you stay warm and comfortable, we suggest wearing the following:

Insulated Winter Jacket – A down or synthetic insulated jacket rated for extreme cold.

Waterproof & Windproof Pants – Keeps the chill and moisture out.

Thermal Base Layer – Full-body thermal layers for added warmth.

Thick Wool or Thermal Socks – Prevents cold feet, which can be a major discomfort.

Insulated Waterproof Boots – Proper winter boots with good insulation and grip to prevent slipping on icy surfaces, or sturdy walking boots.

Gloves & Mittens – Layered gloves (thin liners under insulated mittens) offer warmth and flexibility.

Hat & Balaclava – A wool or fleece hat combined with a balaclava protects your face from windchill.

Extra Accessories for Comfort

• USB Rechargeable Hand and Foot Warmers – Reusable warmers that provide sustained heat for your fingers and toes.

By dressing appropriately for your Northern Lights adventure, you’ll be able to stay warm and focus on the magic of the aurora instead of the freezing temperatures. Enjoy your Arctic experience!