Svalbard, Norway: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Svalbard, Norway? If you're planning to go to Svalbard, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Svalbard
- Important essentials for Svalbard
- Activities for Svalbard
- Svalbard in January: weather and what to pack
- Svalbard in February: weather and what to pack
- Svalbard in March: weather and what to pack
- Svalbard in April: weather and what to pack
- Svalbard in May: weather and what to pack
- Svalbard in June: weather and what to pack
- Svalbard in July: weather and what to pack
- Svalbard in August: weather and what to pack
- Svalbard in September: weather and what to pack
- Svalbard in October: weather and what to pack
- Svalbard in November: weather and what to pack
- Svalbard in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Svalbard, Norway
Based on the climate and weather in Svalbard, Norway, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Svalbard, Norway
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Svalbard, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Svalbard, Norway by month
January
Traveling to Svalbard in January, you will notice that it can be bitter cold and very snowy. Expect it to snow about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C). There is frost almost every day of the month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this one
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For traveling to Svalbard, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is worth investing in for this weather.
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.Ski accessories
Svalbard has some good ski areas If you plan to ski, we would suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Svalbard. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
February
February in this region is unbearably cold and very snowy. Temperatures average in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C) during the day. There is frost most days. It snows about two thirds of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Thermal undergarments
We chose:
Neck warmer/cold weather face mask
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Heated gloves
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Goggles for eye protection
our pickNight cap
It's vital to wear a cap at night in this weather like this
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestCoveralls
We love:
Thick pajamas
Fleece for under jacket
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
thisInsulated boots
The best value
Lip balm
Our pick: this one
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Svalbard, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is vital here.
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.Ski accessories
Svalbard has some famous ski slopes If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Svalbard. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
March
Traveling to Svalbard in March, you will notice that it is biting cold and very snowy. Expect it to snow about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C). There is frost almost every day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Neck warmer/cold weather face mask
Thick pajamas
Coveralls
We like:
Lip balm
Our pick: this one
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Heated gloves
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice:
thisTravel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Night cap
It's important to wear something on your head at night in this weather like this
Goggles for eye protection
our pickHeated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestInsulated boots
The best value
Fleece for under jacket
Thermal undergarments
We love:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Svalbard, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is worth investing in for this weather.
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.Ski accessories
Svalbard has some excellent ski areas If you plan to ski, we would recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Svalbard. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
April
In April, Svalbard is beyond freezing and very snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C) range. At night, lows are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C). This is also a rainy time for Svalbard, with a few of the days of the month having rain. In April, humidity reaches as high as 80%. There is frost nearly every day this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Goggles for eye protection
our pickInsulated boots
The best value
Lip balm
Our pick: this one
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
thisExtreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Thick pajamas
Neck warmer/cold weather face mask
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestThermal undergarments
Our choice is:
Night cap
It's important to wear something on your head at night in this weather like this
Heated gloves
Fleece for under jacket
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Coveralls
We love:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Svalbard, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.Ski accessories
Svalbard has some good ski areas If you plan to ski, we also suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Svalbard. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the correct kind. Many adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
May
If you go to Svalbard in May, you will notice that it is frigid and very snowy. Expect it to rain occasionally and snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Warm pants or jeans
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Heavy jacket
Sweaters
Gloves
Heavy socks
Such as:
Lip balm
Our pick: this one
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
thisWaterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Svalbard, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.Ski accessories
Svalbard has some famous ski slopes If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Svalbard. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the correct type. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
June
June for Svalbard can be brisk, somewhat snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost about half of the time. It rains a bit less than half of the time and snows regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this one
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Svalbard, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is important here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.Ski accessories
Svalbard has some good ski slopes If you plan to ski, we would recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Svalbard. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the necessary type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
July
July in Svalbard can be brisk and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average. There is frost occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: here
Light gloves or mittens
Jacket or coat
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Svalbard. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the necessary kind. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
August
August in Svalbard is brisk and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about two thirds of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average. There is frost occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this one
Warm pants or jeans
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Svalbard. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the correct kind. Most adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
September
If you visit Svalbard during September, you will probably see that it is freezing, somewhat snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 30s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time and snow about half of the time. There is frost about two thirds of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Svalbard, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential here.
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.Ski accessories
Svalbard has some great ski areas If you plan to ski, we also suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Svalbard. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the necessary kind. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
October
October in Svalbard is unbearably cold and very snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C). It snows about two thirds of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average. There is frost almost every day of the month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece for under jacket
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteSweaters
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Lip balm
The best option: this one
Pajamas
Thermal undergarments
We love:
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Extreme cold weather gloves
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Svalbard, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is vital here.
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.Ski accessories
Svalbard has some excellent ski slopes If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Svalbard. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the right kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
November
November in Svalbard can be bitter cold and very snowy. Temperatures average in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. There is frost most days. It snows about two thirds of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece for under jacket
Extreme cold weather gloves
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Thermal undergarments
We chose:
Pajamas
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteSweaters
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
Lip balm
The best is: this
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Svalbard, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.Ski accessories
Svalbard has some good ski areas If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Svalbard. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the correct kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
December
If you go to Svalbard in December, you will notice that it can be dangerously cold and very snowy. Expect it to snow about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C). There is frost most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Thick pajamas
Insulated boots
The best value
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Goggles for eye protection
our pickFleece for under jacket
Night cap
It's a good idea to wear a head warmer at night in this weather like this
Neck gaiter/cold weather mask
Thermal undergarments
Our picks:
Coveralls
We love:
Heated gloves
Lip balm
Our pick: this
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
thisHeated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestWaterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Svalbard, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is vital here.
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.Ski accessories
Svalbard has some good ski slopes If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Svalbard. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
What to do in Svalbard, Norway
Located in the Arctic Ocean, Svalbard is a remote archipelago in Norway that is known for its stunning natural landscapes, unique wildlife, and fascinating history. As a destination, Svalbard offers travelers a chance to explore a unique part of the world that remains largely untouched by modern development. For those who are looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Svalbard, Norway.
1. The Northern Lights
One of the most unforgettable experiences in Svalbard is witnessing the magnificent Northern Lights. From late September to early April, visitors can witness the breathtaking natural phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis. Svalbard’s remote location and minimal light pollution make it an ideal place for viewing the Northern Lights. A variety of tours and excursions offer visitors the opportunity to see this spectacular light show in all its glory.
2. Arctic Wildlife
Svalbard is home to a variety of incredible Arctic wildlife, including polar bears, Arctic foxes, reindeer, walruses, and whales. The island of Spitsbergen is particularly known for its abundant wildlife. Visitors can take guided wildlife tours to see animals in their natural habitat, or opt for a more adventurous day out, such as dog sledding or snowmobiling.
3. Museums and Cultural Sites
Svalbard is rich in history and culture, and there are plenty of museums and cultural sites to explore. The Svalbard Museum in Longyearbyen is a must-visit for anyone interested in the archipelago’s history, culture, and natural wonders. The museum has a collection of artifacts from the area’s mining days, as well as exhibits showcasing Svalbard’s unique wildlife and geology. Other notable cultural sites include the Svalbard Church, which is the northernmost church in the world, and the Global Seed Vault, which is a crucial storage facility for the world’s seeds.
4. Adventfjorden
Adventfjorden is a beautiful bay located just outside Longyearbyen that offers travelers a chance to explore the impressive Arctic landscape. Visitors can take a boat tour to view the fjord’s towering glaciers, or hike along the shoreline for a closer look. Adventfjorden is also a prime spot for observing wildlife, including reindeer, Arctic foxes, and seabirds.
5. Ice Caving
One of the most unique experiences in Svalbard is exploring the island’s ice caves. These breathtaking formations are created by the movement of glaciers and offer visitors a chance to see some of the archipelago’s most impressive natural wonders up close. Guided tours are available and often include a hike across a glacier before entering the ice cave.
Svalbard is a truly unique destination that offers visitors a chance to explore some of the most incredible natural landscapes and wildlife that the Arctic has to offer. The stunning Northern Lights, abundant Arctic wildlife, museums and cultural sites, Adventfjorden, and ice caving are just some of the top tourist attractions that make this archipelago a must-visit destination for adventurous travelers.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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