Lofoten, Norway: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Lofoten, Norway? If you're planning to go to Lofoten, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Lofoten, Norway

Based on the climate and weather in Lofoten, Norway, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Lofoten, Norway

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Lofoten, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Lofoten, Norway by month

January

January in Lofoten is frosty, very snowy and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain about half of the time. It also snows most days. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lofoten. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February is frigid, very snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about half of the time and snows about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lofoten. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

If you visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Lofoten is frosty, very snowy and very rainy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lofoten. 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 airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

If you visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you vacation in Lofoten during April, you may see that it is brisk, very snowy and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time and snow about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lofoten. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in Lofoten is brisk and extremely rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain nearly every day this month. It also snows once in a while. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 70% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, 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 repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lofoten. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave 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

If you visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

In June, Lofoten is pretty cool and extremely rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Lofoten, with most of the days of the month having rain. In June, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lofoten. 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

In July, Lofoten can be chilly and extremely rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) and sometimes jump into the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Lofoten, with most of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lofoten. 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 constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the correct kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in Lofoten is crisp and extremely rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) to high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lofoten. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you are traveling to Lofoten in September, you will notice that it can be brisk and extremely rainy. Expect it to rain almost every day of the month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 Lofoten. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the correct kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

Traveling to Lofoten in October, you will notice that it is pretty cool and extremely rainy. Expect it to rain almost every day of the month and snow 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lofoten. 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • 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. Make sure to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Lofoten is very cold, somewhat snowy and very rainy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: 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 stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lofoten. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

In December, Lofoten is freezing, extremely snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Lofoten, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Norway has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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 Lofoten. 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 always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

If you visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Lofoten, Norway

Lofoten, a group of islands in Norway, is a popular tourist destination for those looking to experience the stunning natural beauty of Scandinavia. The region is home to majestic mountains, pristine beaches, and charming fishing villages. Here are some top tourist attractions you should not miss on your trip to Lofoten.

1. Reine

Reine, a fishing village located on the island of Moskenesøya, is one of the most picturesque places in Lofoten. It has been named as one of the most beautiful villages in Norway, and for good reason – it is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and crystal clear waters. Take a walk along the shoreline and enjoy the breathtaking views.

2. Nusfjord

Nusfjord is another charming fishing village in Lofoten. The village dates back to the 17th century and has preserved its traditional wooden buildings and fisherman huts, making it feel like stepping back in time. Take a stroll through the village and see how the fishermen lived and worked in the past. The village is also a great place to try delicious local seafood.

3. Henningsvær

Henningsvær is a small village located on the island of Austvågøy, also known as the Venice of Lofoten. This is because the village is built on several small islands connected by bridges, with charming houses painted in bright colors. Henningsvær is also home to some legendary surfing spots, making it a popular destination for surfers.

4. Trollfjord

Trollfjord is a narrow fjord located on the west coast of Lofoten. It is surrounded by steep mountains and is only accessible by boat. The fjord is known for its dramatic and picturesque scenery, and it is also possible to spot sea eagles and seals while sailing through its waters. The fjord has been the setting for countless paintings, photographs, and films.

5. The Lofotr Viking Museum

The Lofotr Viking Museum is an open-air museum that showcases Viking history and culture. It is located in Borg, a village on the island of Vestvågøy. The museum has a full-size reconstruction of a Viking Chieftain’s house, where visitors can learn about how the Vikings lived, worked, and fought. There are also several Viking-themed events, such as Viking markets and Viking feasts, that take place throughout the year.

Lofoten is a unique destination that allows you to experience the stunning scenery and rich culture of Norway. These are just some of the top tourist attractions in Lofoten, but there are many more places to explore in this beautiful region. Whether you seek outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Lofoten is sure to delight and inspire you.

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.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Badlands and Black Hills, South Dakota, United States of America, Ross-on-Wye, England, United Kingdom, Allegany County, New York, United States of America, Cordova, Alaska, United States of America, Cordillera Blanca, Peru, Ocna Sibiului, Romania, St Austell, England, United Kingdom, Hidaka, Japan, Palos Heights, Illinois, United States of America, Kentucky, Kentucky, United States of America, and Epirus, Greece.