What to Pack for Lapland — A Family Guide by Little Skiers
A trip to Lapland is one of the most magical family holidays you can take - think husky rides, reindeer sleighs, and maybe even meeting Father Christmas himself! But with temperatures often dipping well below zero, staying warm and comfortable is key. Here’s your essential Little Skiers packing guide to keep the whole family cosy and ready for adventure.
1. Base Layers: Start Close to the Skin
Your base layer is the most important part of your outfit in Lapland. We recommend merino wool thermals for children and adults.
Merino is perfect because:
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It’s naturally warm but breathable, regulating temperature so little ones don’t overheat when active.
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It wicks away moisture and still insulates when damp.
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It’s soft against the skin (no itching!) and naturally odour resistant, meaning fewer changes needed.
Little Skiers pick: Reima Taitoa Merino Wool Thermal Sets - a soft, very warm merino base layer set blended with lyocell for a softer feel yet perfect for keeping children warm all day long. (Because Reima is a premium Finnish brand, its gear is engineered specifically to handle the brutal subarctic conditions of its home country!)
 
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Reima Taitoa Super Soft Merino Thermal Set, Beige Birch or Pale Rose |
2. Middle Layers: Retain Warmth
Once you’ve got your merino base layer, add a fleece layer. This traps warmth between your inner and outer layers.
Little Skiers pick: Didriksons Monte Half Button Fleece — a warm and breathable fleece, ideal as a mid-layer for snowy adventures for younger children. For older children we are really impressed with the Reima Meriol and Laduille range.
 
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| Didriksons Monte Half Button Fleece - click on the image to view the product ❄️ |
 
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| Reima Meriol Technical Fleece - click on the image to view the product ❄️ |
3. Outerwear: Weatherproof & Windproof
Lapland's deep winter temperatures, which can regularly plummet below -20°C to -30°C., so outerwear needs to be insulated, waterproof, and windproof. Look for ski jackets, salopettes or full snowsuits that can handle Arctic conditions. Some holiday companies do not provide snowsuits for children under 2 years so our picks are again from Didriksons and Reima - designed for temperatures ranging from -10°C down to -30°C and start at 18months.
Little Skiers picks: Didriksons Bjarven Snowsuit - highly waterproof with 140g of warm insulated padding. Designed in Grundsund, Sweden for children to wear all winter long in Arctic conditions - recently awarded "Best In Test" in 2023 for snowsuits.
Reima Aapua Down - With a generous 60% down / 40% feather insulation, 550-fill power the Reima Aapua is a particularly warm, waterproof down-filled toddler snowsuit suited to temperatures down to -30°C
 
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| Didriksons Bjarven & Reima Aapua Snowsuits - click on the image to view the product ❄️ |
4. Hands, Head & Feet: Protect the Extremities
Hands, feet and heads lose heat fastest, so it’s vital to pack extras. Mittens are warmer than gloves for children, merino wool ski socks are a must, and don’t forget a hat or balaclava plus a neck warmer or snood.
Little Skiers pick: Barts Kamikaze Hat - super-warm, you don't get warmer than a faux fur lined bomber hat to protect ears from the biting winds and for the younger ones the Didriksons Biggles Hat is also very warm with faux fur lined ear flaps.
| Barts Kamikaze Hat from 4 yrs - Didriksons Cap from 1.5 yr - click on the image to view the product ❄️ |
5. Accessories & Extras
It’s the small things that make a big difference in Lapland. Hand and foot warmers are great for long sleigh rides, ski goggles protect against snow glare, and don’t forget sunscreen and lip balm to protect from the icy sun.
Little Skiers pick: UVEX Speedy Nova Ski Goggles - comfortable, anti-fog goggles that protect young eyes from bright snowy glare. Fits children aged 5-14 years.
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| Strider hand and foot warmers will provide up to 8 hours of warmth❄️ |
 
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6. Layer Wisely & Bring Spares
The golden rule for Lapland? Layers, layers, layers. Conditions change quickly, and children will warm up running around but cool down fast when still. Always pack spare base layers, socks, gloves, and hats in case anything gets wet.
Little Skiers pick: Icebreaker Merino Kids 260 Oasis Mid Layer — a premium merino top, ideal as an extra set for layering or swapping out mid-trip.
Lapland is a snowy wonderland, but it does demand careful packing. With merino base layers, warm mid-layers, insulated outerwear, and the right accessories, your family will stay snug from husky rides to Northern Lights.
At Little Skiers, we’ve got everything you need to get the kids kitted out for Arctic adventures. Happy travels - and don’t forget to tag @littleskiers in your snow gear in the snow! ☕❄️
