Lapland. It sounds like a dream: wide-open landscapes, snowy forests, northern lights, silence. And it can be exactly that – if you're prepared. But many first-timers arrive with the wrong expectations or make small planning mistakes that ruin the mood. Here’s how to avoid them.
1. Packing the wrong clothes – too thin, too heavy, or just wrong
Lapland isn’t just cold. It’s wet, windy,
and wild. Even in summer.
Better: Think in layers. Outer shell: wind- and waterproof. Inner layers: wool, not
cotton. Bonus tip: rubber boots are a must-have in Lapland – seriously.
2. Expecting northern lights on demand
Social media suggests auroras every night. Reality check: northern lights depend on clear skies, solar activity, and luck.
Better: Go outside, enjoy the silence, the stars, the moment. If the lights show up –
wonderful. If not – the experience is still real.
3. Skipping the rental car – or picking the wrong one
Public transport in rural Lapland is rare. Taxis are expensive. Distances are long.
Better: Rent a car with winter tires or spikes (in snowy months). A station wagon or
SUV isn’t luxury – it’s practical for space and road conditions.
4. Overplanning every day
Some visitors try to squeeze in huskies, snowmobiles, Santa, ice fishing, reindeer, and spa days – in one week.
Better: Less is more. Plan rest days. Leave room for the unexpected: weather, tired
kids, or just wanting to do nothing. Lapland is about rhythm, not schedule.
5. Choosing cheap flights over smart routes
Budget flights to Sweden or Norway might look good. But the long transfers and border crossings can ruin your energy.
Better: Compare airports like Rovaniemi, Kuusamo,
and Oulu. Sometimes flying into Oulu and renting a car saves
money and stress. Look at the total journey – not just the ticket price.
6. Expecting Alpine-style resorts
Lapland is not the Alps with reindeer. There are no après-ski bars, no cable cars, no shopping streets.
Better: If you want quiet, space, nature – you’re in the right place. If you want
nightlife or ski lifts, look elsewhere.
7. Misjudging mosquitoes, cold, and darkness
Summer = mosquitoes. Winter = cold. Autumn = unpredictable.
Better: Read honest sources. Ask people who live there. Lapland’s beauty comes with raw
nature. The more you respect it, the more you’ll enjoy it.
8. Ignoring local rules
Finland has “Everyman’s Right”, but not unlimited freedom. No cutting branches, no campfires without permission, no disturbing wildlife.
Better: Ask before you assume. Locals are helpful if you’re polite and respectful.
9. Trusting only your phone
Mobile coverage is unreliable in remote areas. GPS can fail.
Better: Download offline maps, bring a power bank, pack a headlamp. Talk to locals.
Trust your senses, not just your phone.
10. Thinking Lapland is only a winter destination
Most people picture Lapland with snow. But summer and autumn are magical too – midnight sun, berry picking, absolute peace.
Better: Consider off-season travel. Fewer people, lower prices, different experiences –
still unforgettable.
11. Underestimating travel time
From central Europe, you won’t just “pop over” to Lapland. The journey can take a full day – especially in winter, including shopping, rental pick-up, and rough roads.
Better: Add buffer days. Don’t expect to arrive and go straight into a tour. Ease into
it.
12. Relying too much on English
Most Finns speak English – but not all. Older locals and some small providers may only speak Finnish.
Better: Download a translation app (with offline mode) and learn a few basic phrases. A
little effort goes a long way.
13. Booking too centrally
Staying only in cities like Rovaniemi may leave you in the middle of tourist crowds, not wilderness.
Better: Look for cottages a bit further out – places like Ranua, Posio, or near lakes
like Simojärvi or Koirajärvi. More drive, but more peace.
Conclusion:
Lapland isn’t for fast travellers or checklist tourists. It asks you to slow down, listen, and let go. But it gives you something rare in return: silence, presence, and clarity.
If you prepare wisely, stay flexible, and embrace the unknown – Lapland will stay with you long after the trip ends.
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