Finland Packing List

Finland
Packing List

What Should You Pack for Finland?

Finland’s weather can vary, so packing layers is essential. For summer, pack short sleeve shirts, a sweater, and a light jacket for cool evenings. In spring and fall, you’ll need long sleeve shirts, a fleece jacket, and a rain jacket as rain is frequent. Winters in Finland can be very cold, especially in the north, so pack a heavy coat, thermal layers, gloves, and waterproof boots. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring cities like Helsinki or hiking in the forests. Don’t forget a scarf for added warmth on cooler days.

Make sure you’re prepared to: Explore Helsinki’s architecture, see the Northern Lights in Lapland, and enjoy Finland’s lakes and forests.

What to Wear in Finland

Finland’s dress code is casual, but practical and stylish. In cities like Helsinki, jeans, sweaters, and comfortable shoes are ideal. For outdoor activities like hiking in national parks or exploring Lapland, pack thermal layers, a fleece jacket, and waterproof boots. In winter, a heavy coat, thermal underwear, gloves, a beanie, and warm socks are essential. For summer evenings, a casual dress or jumpsuit works well for dining out. Don’t forget a swimsuit for the traditional Finnish sauna experience or relaxing by Finland’s many lakes during warmer months.

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Spring
35 – 55°F
(2 – 13°C )

Summer
60 – 75°F
(16 – 24°C )

Fall
45 – 65°F
(7 – 18°C )

Winter
20 – 40°F
(-7 – 4°C )

Spring: Cool with occasional rain in spring

Summer: Warm, long days

Fall: Cool with rain and shorter days

Winter: Cold and snowy, especially in northern regions

Spring
2 inches of rain

Summer
1 inch of rain

Fall
3 inches of rain

Winter
4 inches of rain

Tops & Layers

1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for warm summer days spent exploring Helsinki’s streets or hiking in national parks.

2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for layering during cooler days or for evenings spent outdoors.

3. Sweater: A cozy sweater is great for chilly mornings and evenings in spring and fall.

4. Rain Jacket: A must for Finland’s frequent rain showers, especially during spring and fall.

5. Fleece Jacket: Great for outdoor activities like hiking or camping, and for staying warm in colder seasons.

Bottoms & Dresses

1. Pants: Comfortable pants or jeans are ideal for city sightseeing or walking along the shores of Finland’s lakes.

2. Leggings: Perfect for layering under pants or wearing casually during hikes or while exploring.

3. Dresses: A casual dress is perfect for summer evenings out in Helsinki or for relaxing by the lakes.

4. Shorts: Great for warm summer days spent hiking or relaxing outdoors.

5. Skirt: A casual skirt works well for sightseeing in warmer months.

6. Jumpsuit: Stylish yet comfortable, perfect for city exploring and evenings out.

7. Tights: Consider packing tights for added warmth in cooler weather or to pair with skirts and dresses.

Shoes & Accessories

1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring cities and national parks.

2. Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots are great for hiking and exploring Finland’s natural beauty.

3. Sandals: Perfect for warmer days spent by the lake or for casual strolls in the cities.

4. Swimsuit: A must for enjoying Finland’s saunas or swimming in lakes during the summer.

5. Beanie: Great for colder days, especially if you’re visiting northern Finland or in winter.

6. Gloves: Warm gloves are essential for outdoor activities in winter.

7. Scarf: A scarf adds warmth and comfort on cool days in both cities and the countryside.

Luggage & Packs

1. Carry-On: Perfect for packing light when traveling between Helsinki and other Finnish cities.

2. Daypack: Great for carrying essentials while hiking or exploring Finland’s national parks.

3. Purse: A small crossbody purse is ideal for keeping things light while strolling through cities or sightseeing.

Travel Essentials

  1. Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
  2. Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
  3. Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
  4. Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
  5. Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
  6. White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
  7. Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
  8. Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
  9. Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
  10. Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
  11. Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
  12. Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
  1. Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
  2. Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
  3. E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
  4. Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
  5. Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
  6. Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
  7. GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
  8. Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
  9. Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
  10. Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
  11. Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
  12. Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
  13. Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
  1. Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
  2. Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
  3. Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
  4. Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
  5. Floss: Any floss will do.
  6. Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
  7. Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
  8. Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
  9. Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
  10. Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
  11. Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
  12. Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
  13. Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
  1. Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
  2. Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
  3. After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
  4. Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
  5. Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
  6. Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
  7. Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
  8. Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
  9. Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
  10. Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
  11. Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
  12. Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
  13. Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
  14. Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
  15. Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
  16. Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
  1. Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
  2. Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
  3. Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
  4. Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
  5. Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
  6. Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
  7. Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
  8. Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
  9. Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
  10. Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
  11. Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
  12. Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
  1. Passport
  2. Travel Visas (if needed)
  3. Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
  4. Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
  5. Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
  6. Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
  7. Credit / Debit Cards
  8. Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.

What to Know Before You Pack

  • Layers: Pack layers to adjust to Finland’s changing weather, especially in spring and fall.
  • Rain Gear: A rain jacket is essential for frequent showers, especially in coastal areas.
  • Warm Clothing: In winter, pack thermal layers, gloves, and a winter coat for cold and snowy conditions.
Finland
Packing List

Finland Travel FAQs

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT FINLAND?

June through August is the best time to visit Finland, especially for enjoying the Midnight Sun and exploring its national parks. July’s also great because it has long daylight hours, perfect for hiking, boating, and attending festivals.

WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN FINLAND?

Helsinki Festival (August): A major cultural festival with performances, concerts, and art exhibitions—great for solo travelers, couples, and families.

Midsummer (June): Celebrated across Finland with bonfires, feasts, and music, especially in rural areas—perfect for families and cultural travelers.

Rovaniemi Christmas Celebrations (December): Experience Christmas magic in Santa’s hometown, Rovaniemi, with winter activities and reindeer sleigh rides—great for families and holiday lovers.

Midnight Sun Film Festival (June): Held in Sodankylä, featuring international films shown in continuous daylight—ideal for film enthusiasts and adventure travelers.

WHERE SHOULD I GO IN FINLAND?

Finland offers a unique mix of natural beauty and modern cities. Start with Helsinki, where you can explore the Design District, visit Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, and stroll through Esplanadi Park. One of my favorite places is Lapland, where you can see the Northern Lights in winter or experience the Midnight Sun in summer. For nature lovers, Finland’s Lake District is a must-see for its serene waters, forests, and outdoor activities. Don’t miss Tampere for its industrial history and beautiful lakeside setting, and Turku for its medieval castle and vibrant cultural scene.

HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT FINLAND?

A 7-10 day trip is ideal for exploring Finland’s cities, national parks, and Lapland. A shorter 5-day trip will give you a good overview of Helsinki and the surrounding areas.

Suggested Itineraries:

2 Days: Day 1: Explore Helsinki’s Design District, visit the Helsinki Cathedral, and take a boat trip to Suomenlinna Sea Fortress. Day 2: Visit the Temppeliaukio Rock Church, stroll through Esplanadi Park, and enjoy a Finnish sauna experience in the evening.

5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary. For Day 3, take a day trip to Porvoo, a charming old town with colorful wooden houses. Day 4: Head to Tampere and explore its lakes and industrial heritage. Day 5: Visit Turku’s medieval castle and explore the archipelago by boat.

1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary. For Day 6, travel to Lapland and visit Rovaniemi, where you can meet Santa Claus and explore the Arctic wilderness. Day 7: Take a Northern Lights tour or experience the Midnight Sun, depending on the season.

10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary. For Day 8, visit the Finnish Lake District and explore the lakes and forests by canoe or on foot. Day 9: Go hiking in a national park, like Koli, and enjoy the stunning landscapes. Day 10: Return to Helsinki for a final day of shopping and sightseeing before departure.

2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary. For Day 11, visit Oulu, a vibrant city with tech innovation and cultural festivals. Day 12: Explore Rauma, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved wooden old town. Day 13: Spend a day relaxing at a lakeside cabin or enjoying a traditional Finnish sauna. Day 14: Return to Helsinki and take a ferry to Tallinn, Estonia, for a day trip.

WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN FINLAND?

2 Days

  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Sweater
  • 1 Dress
  • 1 Pair of Walking Shoes

5 Days

  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Casual Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Short Sleeve Shirt
  • 2 Dresses
  • 1 Pair of Walking Shoes

1 Week

  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Casual Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Short Sleeve Shirt
  • 2 Dresses
  • 1 Pair of Walking Shoes

10 Days

  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Casual Jacket
  • 1 Fleece Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Short Sleeve Shirt
  • 3 Dresses
  • 1 Pair of Walking Shoes

2 Weeks

  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Casual Jacket
  • 1 Fleece Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Short Sleeve Shirt
  • 4 Dresses
  • 1 Pair of Walking Shoes

WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR FINLAND?

High heels: Impractical for Finland’s outdoor activities and cobblestone streets.

Heavy winter coat: Layers are more versatile and practical for Finland’s cold weather.

WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO FINLAND ?

Airfare: $600-$1,200 depending on the season. Prices are higher in summer and around Christmas.

Accommodation: $100-$250 per night, with higher prices in Helsinki and Lapland during peak seasons.

Transportation: $50-$100 for trains and buses between cities, with public transport being reliable and affordable.

Meals: $30-$70 per day. Finnish cuisine ranges from casual cafes to fine dining, with affordable street food options in cities.

Activities: $50-$150 depending on tours, entrance fees, and outdoor activities like sauna visits or Northern Lights tours.

IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN FINLAND? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?

Tipping is not required in Finland, as service charges are typically included in restaurant bills. However, rounding up the bill for excellent service is appreciated. Taxis don’t require tipping, but rounding up the fare is common. For hotel staff, tipping is not expected.

WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT FINLAND BEFORE I VISIT?

  • Sauna Culture: Enjoy Finland’s traditional sauna experience, an important part of Finnish life—don’t be afraid to join in!
  • Weather: Finland’s weather can change quickly, so always have layers and a rain jacket on hand.
  • Currency: Finland uses the Euro (EUR), and credit cards are widely accepted across the country.
  • Allemansrätten: Finland’s “Everyman’s Right” allows you to roam freely in nature but be sure to respect the environment and leave no trace.

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