It doesn’t matter when you plan on visiting Northern Europe; whether at the start of the year or around June, there are a few clothes you must pack for your trip to enjoy your stay there. In this piece, we’ll cover everything you need to carry to ensure you’re well-prepared for any occasion. Here’s our advice on what to Wear in Scandinavia: All-Season Packing List.
Essentials Items to Pack in All Seasons
Hiking Boots
Scandinavia and even Northern Europe are well known for its gorgeous countryside and beautiful mountains, so whether the weather is sunny or wet, you must carry your hiking boots or best walking shoes to explore all these places during your visit. How will you even enjoy a big city break without your walking shoes?
Rain Jacket
The first thing everyone tells you to pack while you tell them you’re visiting Northern Europe is a raincoat. The weather there can change so fast, and even on hot days, you may encounter heavy rains lasting around 15 minutes, so if you don’t have your coat, you will not like the experience.
Extra Layers
Choosing the best outfit for a day in Scandinavia and even Northern Europe can be difficult because even on a nice day, cold winds could spoil the fun. That’s why putting on some extra layers inside is advisable so that if the winds start blowing early, you will not have to quit having fun. Keeping warm in such cases also helps you avoid catching a cold. Getting sick during such a highly anticipated visit is the last thing you want to imagine.
Umbrella
A raincoat could keep you safe on a rainy day, however, it can get too hot and uncomfortable when it’s raining on a sunny day, and in this case, your umbrella, or “brolly” as locals call it, will be the best option. Ensure you are careful because winds could damage your umbrella, and you’ll also be exposed to rain. It means you have to pack a strong umbrella.
What to Wear in Scandinavia: All-Season Packing List., read on….
A Packing List for a Spring Visit to Scandinavia
Carrying the wrong clothing for a trip can ruin your experience, so if you want to visit Northern Europe in Spring and have the best time of your life, here’s what you need to carry.
Jumpers
You will sometimes encounter the winds while walking in Scandinavian countryside or when visiting the Scottish Highlands, but if you carry your woolly jumper, you will have nothing to fear. You will see many people wearing jumpers in Northern Europe; since the country has many sheep, wool is not a problem.
Windbreaker
During Spring in Northern Europe, the weather will most likely be windy when it’s not raining, and in this case, a windbreaker is the best outfit to wear.
Shorts and Jeans
Although you don’t often wear jeans, ensure you have a pair when you visit Northern Europe. Jeans, made of strong material, are great when you need to go for a wilderness hike because they protect you from bug bites and nettle stings. Shorts are also a must-have for the few sunny days during the spring.
The Best Summer Packing List for Scandinavia
Summer in Northern Europe and Scotland is almost like in other places, so you’ll need the same clothes you would require elsewhere but remember to carry your umbrella in case anything happens. Fairfield House Hotel is a lovely place to spend a summer break, so is a new concealed gem resort just outside the capital of Norway.
The Best Summer Packing List for Scandinavia
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are essential for your summer holiday, especially if you are exploring the mountains since the sun can be blinding, hindering visibility. If you can see well as you hike, the trip can be risky since you can quickly find yourself in an accident.
Sun Hat
Carrying a sun hat is an optional choice, depending on your preference, however, having something to cover your face and head when the sun is burning in the afternoon will make you comfortable.
Short-sleeved T-shirts
You must have short-sleeved t-shirts for your summer holidays, and this also applies to Northern Europe. There’s a common saying for Scottish summertime, and it goes like this “sun oot, guns oot”, so remember to carry your short-sleeved t-shirt so you can show off the guns!
Swimwear
There are great beaches on Northern Europe’s west coast, for example, the one found at Troon. Dipping yourself in the sea to overcome the heat at the beach is one of the best feelings.
A Packing List for a Tour to Scandinavia in Autumn
As summer comes to an end and autumn begins, everything in Northern Europe looks beautiful, and although you’re likely to get wet, autumn country walks are the best.
Hoodies
Hoodies are perfect for many occasions, one of which is the midges you’ll most likely face on your evening walks.
Light waterproof jacket
Autumn weather is not that bad, but you’ll realize that rain showers will start to occur more often as time goes by. That’s why you must have a light waterproof jacket, especially as autumn begins, around late August and early September.
Flannel Shirts
Flannel shirts are a unique fashion, and they are also warm. You can button them up with your jeans and favorite jacket or wear them casually with a t-shirt. If you’d like to explore the nightlife, this is the attire for that endeavor.
Essential Items to Pack for Winter in Scandinavia
Although Scandinavian and Scottish winters are beautiful, they are usually harsh and very cold. The following items will make life easier for you during the winter in Northern Europe.
Warm Socks
Imagine having numb toes while shopping for a Christmas party in the city center. If you want to avoid being in such a situation, don’t forget some warm socks (fluffier ones are the best).
Hats and scarves
The winter comes with icy winds that cut through the jawbone and ears, so you should put on your hat and scarf every time you leave the house.
Fleeces
Fleeces are an excellent addition to have under your winter jacket because they are warm, lightweight, cheap, and comfortable. They are better than jumpers because they are softer, so they will fit well with the other layers.
Thermal layers
You must have thermal layers if you’re planning to explore the mountains during winter because temperatures may fall below zero, and you’ll find yourself chittering when you stop to take a breath.
What to Wear in Scandinavia: All-Season Packing List – Final Thoughts
It’s important to be prepared for the changing weather conditions in Northern Europe, as the seasons can bring drastic temperature changes. Layering is key, and investing in high-quality, warm, and waterproof clothing and footwear will ensure you stay comfortable and stylish throughout your travels.
What to Wear in Scandinavia: All-Season Packing List, written dedicatedly for Daily Scandinavian by Shawn M. Shawn Mack is an experienced outreach expert at The Pro Linkers. He is known for his excellent communication skills and ability to build strong relationships with influencers and media outlets. With a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to delivering results, Shawn is the go-to expert for all things SEO outreach.
Feature image (on top): © Mall of Norway