Packing for Winter in Sweden

Packing for WInter in Sweden

During my final week spent in the US, my mind was preoccupied with one thing: prepping and packing for winter in Sweden.

Now, I know what you’re thinking.  Sweden?  In the MIDDLE OF WINTER?  Are you NUTS?!

Ahem.  Sort of.

In all honesty, though, I’ve been traveling in hot or tropical places almost exclusively for the last four years.  When making the decision to travel to Sweden in the winter, I realized I was finally ready for something different; not to mention I’m long-overdue for a white Christmas.

But let’s get one thing out in the open from the get-go: I am not, by ANY stretch of the imagination, an efficient packer.  And suddenly I’m expected to pack light when all I’m going to be wearing are wools and downs and things with ‘sweat’ in the name?

Needless to say, packing for winter in Sweden has easily been my greatest challenge yet.  Here’s a look at the madness behind my method.

What I Did Right

Before I get into the item-by-item breakdown of what I packed for Sweden, there are a few things I need to make a note of.

First of all, I nearly lost it the night before departure as I realized there was no way in hell the 77-liter Eagle Creek wheeled backpack I’d been using for the last year was going to zip closed on top of my overflowing mountain of wool and fleece.  Luckily, moments before total meltdown occurred, my generous family gave me one of my Christmas presents early–a SwissGear 28″ 4-Wheeled Spinner suitcase.  I literally shrieked with joy at the sight of it.  After having tried so hard for SO LONG to fit the backpacker archetype of a light/minimalist packer, it felt good to indulge my overpacking ways and still have extra space in my bag for once.

Secondly, because I did want to give myself some hard limits, I did once again employ my Eagle Creek packing cubes.  They do keep a bag nicely organized, whether it’s full or not, and they don’t add any bulk or weight.

Lastly, one major difference between this trip and previous ones is that I learned to say NO to excess shoes.  Over the summer in Europe, I swear to god I was carrying 8 pairs of shoes at one point.  Sandals, mostly, but still!  It was insane!  This time it was one pair on my feet and two in the bag (one for fashion, one for fitness) and nothing unnecessary.  Not even a pair of flip-flops “in case I need them.”

Trip Notes

Primary Destination: Stockholm, Sweden

Duration: At least 3 months

Average Temperatures: December -1°C/30°F; January -1°C/30°F; February -5°C/23°F

Stockholm is a big, trendy city.  Like New York’s sophisticated older sister, you might say.  As such, I planned to wear a lot of black (because it’s versatile, doesn’t soil easily, and always looks chic) and kept casual “backpacker-y” clothes to a bare minimum.  I also planned for travel to other parts of Sweden as well, where snow will be more likely.

Related post: 10 Travel Tips for StockholmPacking for Winter in Sweden

What I Packed for Winter in Sweden

Luggage

One checked bag, one carry-on, and one personal item.  I don’t care how long the trip is or even if I’m moving permanently–you’ll never see me at an airport with more than this!

  • SwissGear 28″ Spinner
  • Canvas backpack
  • Leather messenger bag

Outerwear

My jacket, a long down jacket with a furry hood (pictured above), was far and away the most valuable thing I brought.  It looks great and keeps me super warm–don’t skimp on your jacket!

  • Columbia Polar Freeze Down Jacket
  • Beanie
  • Gloves
  • Raincoat
  • Fleece ear muffs

Related post: How Swedes Stay Happy & Healthy All Winter Long

Clothes

This may seem like a lot, but knowing how pricey things can be in Sweden, I didn’t want to have to purchase much (if anything) when I got here in terms of clothes.  I can’t promise I won’t slip up and wander into an H&M or one of Stockholm’s cool thrift stores one day, but c’mon…I’m not made of stone.

  • 3 pullover sweaters
  • 1 hoodie
  • 1 cardigan
  • 1 chambray shirt
  • 2 flannel shirts
  • 3 thermal long-sleeved shirts
  • 3 blouses
  • 1 pair dark skinny jeans
  • 1 pair red khakis
  • 4 dresses
  • 1 skirt
  • 2 fitted tanks
  • 2 pairs long spandex pants
  • 1 pair thick footless tights
  • 1 pair opaque tights
  • 2 pairs running shorts
  • 2 casual tees
  • 2 sport bras
  • 2 regular bras
  • 3 pairs wool socks
  • 2 pairs athletic socks
  • Plenty of underwear

Accessories

I don’t wear much jewelry apart from a few small pieces that never come off, like rings and stud earrings.  I’m addicted to sunglasses, but used a lot of restraint this time and only allowed myself one pair.

  • 1 watch
  • 3 statement necklaces
  • 2 scarves
  • Small black purse
  • Fashion hat
  • 1 pair sunglasses
  • Prescription eyeglasses

Shoes

Totally nailed this.  Self-five!  I’m a Steve Madden fangirl–follow the links below to steal my style.

  • Boots
  • Heeled booties
  • Running shoes/trainers

Related post: 25 Enchanting Photos of Sweden in the Winter

Makeup & Toiletries

To save precious space, I planned to buy the majority of my toiletries upon arrival.  My makeup routine is pretty minimal…but I do sort of have a lipstick obsession and am always trying new colors.  I’ve omitted obvious things like brushes, toothbrush, bobby pins, etc.

  • Hairspray
  • Antiperspirant
  • Cleansing towelettes
  • Perfume
  • Concealer
  • Blush
  • Bronzer
  • Becca shimmering skin perfector
  • Too Faced eyeshadow primer
  • Mascara
  • Smashbox eyebrow pencil
  • 5 shades of lipstick (at least)

Electronics

As a blogger/online freelancer/photography nut, you know I love my cameras and electronics.  These are my essentials, no matter where I am.

So, there you have it, everything I packed for a winter in Sweden.  It’s probably not perfect and I’ll more than likely need a few things eventually, but for a long-term trip to a cold place, I think I did pretty well.  I hope my list can serve as a template or starting point for anyone thinking of making their own trip to Scandinavia in the winter.  The winter months get a bad rap over here, but so far it’s not so bad!

Want more packing lists?  Check out these related posts:

Packing for winter in Sweden was a major challenge for me!  What’s been your toughest destination to pack for?


Some of the links contained in this post are affiliate links.  I receive a small commission should you use one to make a purchase, at no extra cost to you.

19 comments

  • Justine

    Ah, this post could not have come at a better time. I just found out I’m going to a SUPER cold place in the dead of winter. And as someone who has never lived in a place with freezing weather I am at a total loss for what to bring. So thank you! Do you have any brand recommendations for wool leggings or tights? Thanks 😉
    Justine recently posted…This Expat Life: Month 16My Profile

    • Leah Davis (author)

      WHATTT what super cold place are you going to?!?! I hope there’s an announcement coming soon? I found my thick footless tights at Gap, and they did also have some fleece-lined leggings as well. The tights are probably more useful for layering, especially if you like fitted pants, but fleece leggings are amazing for just lounging around the house! I don’t recall seeing any made of wool, but maybe I’m just being forgetful?!
      Leah Davis recently posted…Friday Snapshots: Christmas in Central StockholmMy Profile

      • Justine

        An announcement will be coming soon! I just don’t think I’ve wrapped my mind around this new adventure to say it out loud! Although you do know the country, just not the actual destination 😉 Ugh, I have to get on ordering clothes. I’ll look into those tights and I love your coat!!!!
        Justine recently posted…This Expat Life: Month 16My Profile

  • Natascha (Westwards)

    Actually almost all of our trips to Scandinavia took place in winter (we have been to Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Norway in winter). Thermal underwear is definitely a must. For sightseeing we always pack a small electric kettle and a thermos flask to have some hot drink while walking the city (cheaper than going in cafes all the time). In northern Finland we found you need some padded ski clothing even if you just walk around in the cities (locals also wear them). But even if it is quite cold outside, hotels, restaurants and museum were always well heated and we warmed up quickly. Enjoy your time in Stockholm!
    Natascha (Westwards) recently posted…Krampus rally in Osttirol (East Tyrol) – the winter demons of the Alpine valleysMy Profile

    • Leah Davis (author)

      Wow, packing your own kettle for sightseeing? Now that’s commitment! I’d be more likely to just head into a shop and buy something. I do like to bring my own water with me though, so I’m not buying wasteful plastic bottles. Who knows if I’ll make it to the far north, I may need extra gear for that! I’m sure it’s beautiful though with all the snow 🙂
      Leah Davis recently posted…Friday Snapshots: Christmas in Central StockholmMy Profile

  • Rachel

    I don’t think I’ve ever traveled (on purpose) to a cold destination! Well, unless I’m skiing or something. Way to change it up. I really love all of those boots, and I think that I NEED them, but I’m sticking with the warmer spots for the next several months. Can’t wait to get home for Christmas and actually wear winter clothes for a short time. I’m very impressed with this packing list – cold weather feels like such a challenge when you’re trying to pack light all the time.

    And don’t you love the “spinner” aspect of that bag? Makes you feel SO agile! Though I guess anything feels agile after a backpack…
    Rachel recently posted…How to Book a Last Minute Galapagos Cruise from Quito – Agonizing, Anticipation, and ATMsMy Profile

    • Leah Davis (author)

      Haha yeah, I was the same way for a long time. Traveling to cold places never held that much appeal. Maybe that’s something that changes with age? Now I’m all excited about the possibilities…dog sledding, ice hotels, the northern lights…!

      And OMG yes, the spinner suitcase is a game changer! I feel so sophisticated now, walking with an upright bag 😉
      Leah Davis recently posted…Friday Snapshots: Christmas in Central StockholmMy Profile

  • Patricia

    Fun fact: I went to Norway in the dead of winter a few years ago… and it was far warmer than my then-home of Brussels.

    Looks like you are perfectly prepared! And if not, fika a little extra – fika cures everything.

    PS: Fellow Steve Madden lover over here! The Troopa combat boots are the best.

  • Lauren Lalicon

    You fit ALL THAT in your suitcase? That’s impressive! I’m excited to see your photos of winter in Sweden! Sweden is actually the only European country that I’ve vowed to visit in the future lol mostly because I’ve focused my sights on Asia 🙂
    Lauren Lalicon recently posted…What Is My Niche???My Profile

    • Leah Davis (author)

      To be fair, it’s a pretty enormous suitcase. Way bigger than any I’ve used in the past! So far it’s just cold and a bit dreary, no snow yet, but hopefully I’ll have some pretty pictures for you soon! 🙂
      Leah Davis recently posted…Friday Snapshots: Christmas in Central StockholmMy Profile

  • Tracy Antonioli

    Any thoughts on doing this as carry-on only? Shoes are my main concern. I have a pair of (I am ashamed to admit this) Sorel ‘duck boots’ that I’m thinking of taking as (maybe?) my only shoes. I ruined my favorite pair of tall black boots in Chicago last winter (and then promptly purchased the same boots again) and would hate to have a repeat of that.

    Also–leggings? Yes or no? As tights, under long sweaters.

    Ugh…I sound so frumpy, don’t I?
    Tracy Antonioli recently posted…Like Eating A Single Potato Chip: What To Do If You Have To Pick Only One DestinationMy Profile

    • Leah Davis (author)

      Haha not frumpy at all! Smart, actually. A pair of Sorels is probably a safe bet. I’ve certainly seen people wearing them, but somehow most people get away with wearing regular boots/shoes without freezing to death. Guess they’re more immune to the cold than I am. I guess whether carry-on only is possible depends a lot on the length of your trip and how comfortable you are wearing things over and over. As for leggings and tights–YES. Absolutely bring them. I’ve doubled up on my layers of tights on some days. It’s necessary. Good luck!

  • Johanna Parkhurst

    I’m going to be studying in Uppsala beginning in January through June of next year! Did those boots you brought do ok in the snow? What would you recommend boot-wise or what brand/type do the locals gravitate to? P.S. Your article is super helpful and makes me so excited to travel to Sweden!

    • Leah Davis (author)

      Hey Johanna! I will admit that no, those boots were not actually as warm as I was hoping. The funny thing is, most Swedes wear pretty normal shoes as well (at least in Stockholm). Wearing big winter boots in the city would definitely look out of place, I assume the Swedes must all just wear really good socks! Or they are less affected by the cold. Who knows. Maybe focus more on the socks, and shoes with really good traction for the snow 🙂

  • Zippy

    Hey Leah! I just went through all your posts about Sweden and I loved them! I will be studying there from September to late January and was wondering if there was anything you would change or add about your packing list?

    • Leah Davis (author)

      Hey Zippy! I got a similar question about this recently, and I think the one thing I would change is my shoe choice! Those boots I took were not sufficient to keep my feet warm when walking around for long periods. Or maybe I just needed better socks. But yeah, get some really well-insulated shoes!

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