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Celebrating the holidays in Norway? Find out what to wear in Norway in winter!
What to Wear in Norway in Winter
Travel Fashion Help!
Readers Asks:
I am working on my packing list for Norway in a few months to see the Northern Lights. I’m getting nervous that I’m not packing warmly enough for the winter weather. I am doing a carry-on and personal item only. Any ideas on what to wear in Norway in winter?
Norway is an incredibly diverse country, with cosmopolitan cities, stunning glaciers, and breath-taking coastlines. Packing for a trip can feel like an overwhelming task. To help you prepare for your vacation, we asked our readers what they would pack in their suitcase when heading to Norway in winter.
WEATHER
The best time to see the Northern Lights is winter; the snow can turn the country into a winter wonderland.
The winter months are from December to February, and the temperatures can vary depending on what part of the country you visit. Along the coastline, it tends to be mild and wet, whereas central regions are a lot colder.
Always check the weather forecast before your trip. Once you’ve researched the weather for each destination planned for your trip, you can focus on creating a travel capsule wardrobe. Then use packing cubes to help you compress your winter clothing to fit into your carryon suitcase.
If you’re heading there during winter, you’re likely to get some snow, which normally lasts until Easter. There are longer hours of darkness, which is ideal for seeing the Northern Lights; this normally lasts until spring, giving you a good chance of catching them throughout the year.
Follow these tips on how to pack for cold weather!
CLOTHES
Della Mid Jacket | Carson Pass II Jacket
Norway is one of the most expensive countries in the world so it’s crucial that you’re prepared before you go. Make sure you have your itinerary planned out and keep checking the forecast. This will help you plan your wardrobe and avoid having to buy costly items during your vacation.
To keep out the rain and wind, pack a thick waterproof coat. The winds can get quite strong so avoid packing an umbrella and instead opt for a windproof coat with a built-in hood.
These are our top picks for stylish travel raincoats!
Ibex Woolies Crew | Ibex Woolies Bottom
When the temperatures really drop, you’ll need to layer up with long-sleeve tops and fleeces. Merino wool thermals are an absolute must for winter vacations, as they stay warm, dry, and last ages without a wash.
Thermals are the key to packing light in winter. Find out how to choose the warmest long underwear for women!
Merino Izzi Tight | Mogul Leggings
Jeans are fantastic for cold, dry weather, but shouldn’t be worn if there is lots of snow or rain, since they take a long time to dry. Instead, think about packing quick-drying travel pants that will keep you toasty and can last a few days without needing a wash. You can wear leggings, thermals, or tights underneath pants for extra warmth, too.
These are the best leggings for women that travel!
Merino Wool Blend Socks | Handwoven Pashmina
Wool socks and a colorful wool winter scarf are an absolute must for snowy conditions. If you’re planning on skiing in this beautiful country, then you’ll need to pack appropriate ski gear, including salopettes, thick waterproof gloves, and a proper ski jacket.
Here’s a full list of what to bring on a ski trip!
SHOES
Waterproof Snow Boot | Thomsen Boots
Picking the right shoes for a winter vacation is super important as it can mean the difference between an awesome adventure and a miserable trip.
For cold and wet weather, pack a pair of leather ankle boots that can be worn with thick socks.
Alternatively, if you’re visiting Norway when it’s covered in snow you’ll probably need something sturdier and thicker, like winter snow boots. These are usually lined on the inside and have excellent traction so you don’t slip.
These are the styles our readers voted for as the best waterproof boots!
Do you have any suggestions on what to wear in Norway in winter? Please share below!
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For more Europe packing list, please:
- Ten-Step Packing Guide for Europe
- Backpacking Packing List for Europe
- What to Wear in England
- What to Wear in Paris
Suggested travel resources:
- Lonely Planet Europe on a Shoestring
- Lonely Planet Norway (Country Guide)
- Travel Shoes for Europe
- The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe
I hope you liked this post on what to wear in Norway in winter. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!
I need packing advice for Norway in late September.
Hi Marilyn, thank you for reaching out! Take a look at this post for tips to help you with packing for Norway: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-a-trip-to-norway/
For even more help, I would also recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post your question there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ It’s a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their awesome recommendations and feedback.
Hope this helps, have an awesome time on your trip!
Do we need to carry snow goggles if we r on the sleigh ride
Hi Mary, thanks for your question! We’ll share your question here so the author of the article can reply. Hope you have an awesome trip! 🙂
I can attest to wool socks and layers for Norway in winter. Im luck enough to have my sister living in Oslo, and winter is actually my favorite time to visit. Wool socks FTW!
I am heading to Norway for two weeks in late September. Staying in Oslo up to about half way and then back around. We are touring by hire car. Am unsure how warm to dress. Is it mild at that time of year?
Hi Narelle, the best advice is to check the weather forecast so you have the most accurate information for the exact days of your trip: https://weather.com/en-GB
Yes to all the above. A long warm sweater that fits under your coat as your mid layer. A toque. A second pair of socks and gloves for layering. Hand cream with beeswax in it and lip balm. If the temperature is dropping below minus 10 Celsius, make sure your gloves, toque and boots are rated for it.
Thanks for your suggestions Connie!