CHOOSING THE BEST BAG

We recommend a large backpack or duffel bag as you will have to carry your own bag 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. Larger size than you normally wear to allow for two layers of socks and still 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

• 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

ALSO REMEMBER

• Credit card: You won’t need cash, most cards are accepted

• 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

• Travel insurance: Usually included in your house insurance

OTHER stuff YOU MAY WANT TO BRING

• First aid kit and personal medicines

• Journal and pen

• Your favourite snacks to eat when no one sees

• A feel-good book

• Camera with extra batteries

• A fun game to play in the evening

• Some food item that is typical in your country to share with the others as a desert or a snack out in the snow. Could be Belgian chocolate, parmesan, marshmallows or your local liquor.