Packing for a trip to the Arctic takes a bit of thought. The weather, even in summer, is unpredictable and often colder than you expect, so having the right gear makes a big difference to your comfort. Once you’re out on deck with the wind blowing, or bumping across a fjord in a zodiac, you quickly realise just how important the right clothing is. Here’s what worked for me during a summer voyage (I travelled with my family at the end of June), when temperatures usually hover somewhere between 3°C and 7°C.
Clothing for Svalbard: Layer Up for the Arctic
It might sound obvious when you’re heading to the Arctic, but yes – it’s cold, even during Svalbard’s summer (May – September). Add in the wind chill, especially at sea, and you’ll likely need more warm layers than you think. I speak from experience!
The secret is a layered, interchangeable clothing system that allows you to adapt quickly to changing conditions. Always keep something warm and dry to put on if you get wet during an excursion.
In this blog, I’m focusing mainly on what to pack for cruises out of Longyearbyen, but you’ll also want to think about what to wear if you’re spending time in town and the surrounding area (more on that below).
Ship Shape
I packed a couple of complete sets of clothes for shore landings, and another comfy set for wearing onboard.
What I wore for shore landings:
- Thermals
- Ski socks
- Salopettes
- Down jacket (when needed)
- Ship-provided light windproof shell
- Ship-provided lifejacket (shore landings & zodiac excursions)
- Ship-provided rubber boots (shore landings & zodiac excursions)
- Hat, sunglasses, gloves
- Extra fleece layer if especially cold or windy
What I wore onboard:
- Comfy trousers (jeans, cargos, or joggers) with trainers or grippy-soled shoes — decks and stairways can be slippery after rain
- Long-sleeve shirt or T-shirt
- Wool jumper (with down jacket for deck)
- Windproof layer for time on deck
- Hat, sunglasses, gloves for time on deck
You’ll be going from inside to outside frequently – especially with the midnight sun – so everything you pack should be practical, warm, and comfy. You won’t need anything smart.
Pyjamas: There were extra blankets in our cabin, but I slept on the hull side and found it cold at night. Packing PJs was a good call.
Layer Breakdown
Base Layers: Breathable thermals (merino wool works well) for both top and bottom.
Mid Layers: Fleeces, sweatshirts, warm jumpers (wool is excellent). Take a few to mix and match.
Trousers: Trekking trousers or salopettes. I wore salopettes for all shore landings – great when you get splashed in the zodiac and warm enough for long hours on deck.
Outer Layers: A warm down or synthetic jacket is essential. Our ship also provided a lightweight windproof shell, which was very welcome.
Hat: For warmth and sun protection.
Gloves & Scarf/Buff: Ski gloves worked well; I also kept a pair of fleece gloves in my pocket for quick access.
Footwear: Trainers or walking boots with grip are useful onboard. Rubber boots are essential for landings (supplied by the ship). Snow was deep in some places, and you can get wet climbing in and out of zodiacs.
Socks: Thick ski socks in rubber boots; regular socks for trainers onboard.
Essential Gear for an Arctic Adventure
- Daypack: For extra layers, camera gear, and water bottle.
- Dry Bag: To protect camera/phone from spray/rain.
- Sunglasses: UV protection is essential.
- Sunscreen & Lip Balm: Wind + sun can catch you out.
- Water Bottle/Flask: Most ships have refill stations.
- Binoculars: 8x or 10x magnification for wildlife.
- Camera Kit: I used a mobile and a 16–50mm lens for landscapes. A 300–400mm+ lens is best for wildlife. Cold drains batteries – bring spares.
- Swimsuit: During some cruises you have an opportunity for a Polar Plunge! Highly recommended. We went in (twice) from the beach at Ny London. Towels were provided.
Toiletries & Health Items
- Personal toiletries: Bring your own essentials.
- Moisturiser & good sun screen: The Arctic air is very drying and the sun is fierce.
- Motion sickness remedies: Useful if seas get rough.
- Prescription meds: Pack extras in hand luggage in case of delays.
Travel Documents & Essentials
- Passport: Svalbard is visa-free for many, but travel is via mainland Norway (Schengen rules apply).
- Travel insurance: Must cover expedition cruising and emergency evacuation.
- Credit card & NOK: Cards widely accepted, but handy to carry some cash.
- Offline entertainment: No Wi-Fi after leaving Longyearbyen – bring books, downloads, or podcasts.
Final Packing Tips for Svalbard
- Avoid cotton: It holds moisture and makes you cold. Choose technical or wool.
- Pack smart, not heavy: Cabins are small – go for versatile pieces.
- Check with your operator: Many supply boots and outer shell jackets – confirm before packing.
Longyearbyen
When we visited, streets were clear of snow, so trainers or walking shoes were fine. Snow remained on the hills, and some areas were wet.
- It’s customary to remove outdoor shoes in museums and hotel public areas. Bring slip-ons for indoors if you don’t like walking in socks. Try and avoid single-use overshoe covers (plastic).
- At Camp Barentz, boardwalks protect the tundra. Trainers/walking shoes were fine. It can be exposed, so layer up with jacket, hat, and gloves.
- Eating out is informal – most people dress for warmth and comfort.
Final Thought
Packing for Svalbard is all about preparation and practicality. With the right clothing and equipment, you’ll be warm, dry, and free to enjoy the stark, shimmering beauty of the High Arctic.
