Sodankylä, Finland: 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 Sodankylä, Finland? If you're planning to go to Sodankylä, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Sodankylä
- Important essentials for Sodankylä
- Activities for Sodankylä
- Sodankylä in January: weather and what to pack
- Sodankylä in February: weather and what to pack
- Sodankylä in March: weather and what to pack
- Sodankylä in April: weather and what to pack
- Sodankylä in May: weather and what to pack
- Sodankylä in June: weather and what to pack
- Sodankylä in July: weather and what to pack
- Sodankylä in August: weather and what to pack
- Sodankylä in September: weather and what to pack
- Sodankylä in October: weather and what to pack
- Sodankylä in November: weather and what to pack
- Sodankylä in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Sodankylä, Finland
Based on the climate and weather in Sodankylä, Finland, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Sodankylä, Finland
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Sodankylä, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Sodankylä, Finland by month
January
If you are traveling to Sodankylä in January, you will notice that it can be dangerously cold. Daytime temperatures are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear

Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the best
Thick pajamas

Goggles for eye protection
our pick
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.
Neck warmer/ski mask

Night cap
It's a good idea to wear a head protector at night here like this

Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:

Lip balm
Our pick: here

Coveralls
We like:

Insulated boots
The best value

Thermal undergarments
We suggest:

Fleece for under jacket

Heated gloves

Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
this
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket

100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:

Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in heavy rain.

Waterproof phone bag

Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.

Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We suggest:
Health

Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.

Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.

Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.

Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.

Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security

Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

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 Sodankylä. 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 things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Finland 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 neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one

Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large 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. Make sure to choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.
February
February in Sodankylä is beyond freezing. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits below 0 F (10+ below zero C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear

Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
this
Thermal undergarments
We suggest:

Heated gloves

Neck gaiter/cold weather mask

Insulated boots
The best value

Night cap
It's suggested to wear something on your head at night here like this

Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.
Thick pajamas

Goggles for eye protection
our pick
Lip balm
Our pick: this one

Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the best
Fleece for under jacket

Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:

Coveralls
We pick:
Health

Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.

Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.

Emergency motion sickness relief

Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.

Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
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 Sodankylä. 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.

AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Finland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials

Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one

Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
March
March in this region can be bitter cold. Temperatures average in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear

Heated gloves

Goggles for eye protection
our pick
Neck gaiter/cold weather face mask

Insulated boots
The best value

Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:

Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the best
Lip balm
Our pick: this

Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
this
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:

Coveralls
We like:

Fleece for under jacket

Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.
Thick pajamas

Night cap
It's suggested to wear a head protector at night in this climate like this
Health

Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.

Emergency motion sickness relief

Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.

Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.

Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security

AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

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 belongings.

Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sodankylä. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Finland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials

Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is 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

Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one

Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the right kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.
April
April here is very cold. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear

Thermal undergarments
Our picks:

Pajamas

Sweaters

Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.
Fleece for under jacket

Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:

Lip balm
The best pick: this one

Extreme cold weather gloves

Very heavy heated socks
Like these

Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:

Scarf/neck warmer
our favorite
A rain coat to layer with a coat

100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:

Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in a rainstorm.

Waterproof phone bag

Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.

Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
Health

Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.

Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.

Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.

Emergency motion sickness relief

Travel first aid kit
This one is a good 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 Sodankylä. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage 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 things.
Given current world events, Finland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials

Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

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 neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one

Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
May
If you vacation in Sodankylä during May, you are likely to notice that it is brisk. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear

Fleece

Jacket or coat

Extra socks

Light gloves or mittens

Warm pants or jeans

Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: here

Sneakers or comfortable shoes

A rain jacket to layer with a coat

100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:

Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in heavy rain.

Waterproof phone bag

Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.

Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
Health

Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.

Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.

Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.

Emergency motion sickness relief

Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security

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

AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

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

Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sodankylä. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Finland 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. Make sure to get the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one

Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one

Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
June
If you are traveling to Sodankylä in June, you will notice that it is chilly. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear

Long sleeve shirts or blouses

Sneakers or comfortable shoes

Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.
Extra socks

Dresses
You can find some great options here

Light and heavy skirts

Pants or jeans

Light jacket or fleece

A rain poncho to layer with another jacket

100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:

Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a storm.

Waterproof phone bag

Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.

Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
Health

Emergency motion sickness relief

Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.

Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.

Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.

Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security

AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sodankylä. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

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

Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Finland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials

Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one

Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the right kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

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 is mild. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear

Light jacket or fleece

Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.
Long sleeve shirts or blouses

Extra socks

Sneakers or comfortable shoes

Pants or jeans

Dresses
You can find some great options here

Light and heavy skirts

A rain coat to layer with another jacket

100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:

Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a rainstorm.

Waterproof phone bag

Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.

Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
Health

Emergency motion sickness relief

Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural 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 good one.

Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.

Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security

AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sodankylä. 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 belongings.
Given current world events, Finland 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. Make sure to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one

Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
August
August in Sodankylä can be chilly. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear

Light and heavy skirts

Dresses
You can find some great options here

Long sleeve shirts or blouses

Pants or jeans

Sneakers or comfortable shoes

Extra socks

Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.
Light jacket or fleece

A rain jacket to layer with another jacket

100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:

Rain pants
These will be essential in heavy rain.

Waterproof phone bag

Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.

Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We like:
Health

Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.

Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.

Emergency motion sickness relief

Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.

Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security

AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

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

Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sodankylä. 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, Finland 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 voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online 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 locations.

Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one

Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
September
September in Sodankylä can be brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear

Extra socks

Fleece

Light gloves or mittens

Warm pants or jeans

Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this

Jacket or coat

Sneakers or comfortable shoes

A rain coat to layer with a coat

100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:

Rain pants
These pants can be vital in a rainstorm.

Waterproof phone bag

Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.

Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We like:
Health

Emergency motion sickness relief

Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.

Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.

Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.

Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security

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

Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sodankylä. 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 things 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.
Given current world events, Finland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials

Travel pillow
A great choice is this one

Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

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. Ensure that you find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
October
October is frosty. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear

Heavy socks
Such as:

Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.
Warm pants or jeans

Gloves

Lip balm
Our choice: this one

Heavy jacket

Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
this
Sweaters

A rain jacket to layer with another jacket

100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:

Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in a storm.

Waterproof phone bag

Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.

Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
Health

Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.

Emergency motion sickness relief

Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.

Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.

Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
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 Sodankylä. 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 things.

AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Finland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials

Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

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

Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the necessary kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.
November
November is frigid. Temperatures average in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear

Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:

Thermal undergarments
We like:

Pajamas

Very heavy heated socks
Like these

Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:

Scarf/neck warmer
our favorite
Sweaters

Extreme cold weather gloves

Lip balm
The best pick: this

Fleece for under jacket

A rain jacket to layer with a coat

100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:

Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in heavy rain.

Waterproof phone bag

Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.

Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We suggest:
Health

Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.

Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.

Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.

Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.

Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security

AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sodankylä. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Finland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials

Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the right type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

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 pillow
An excellent option is this one

Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
December
If you go to Sodankylä in December, you will notice that it can be dangerously cold. Daytime temperatures are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear

Neck warmer/cold weather mask

Heated gloves

Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the best
Fleece for under jacket

Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.
Goggles for eye protection
our pick
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:

Night cap
It's suggested to wear a head protector at night in this climate like this

Insulated boots
The best value

Thick pajamas

Thermal undergarments
We suggest:

Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
this
Coveralls
We like:

Lip balm
Our pick: this

A rain coat to layer with a jacket

100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:

Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a storm.

Waterproof phone bag

Umbrella
This one is a great choice.

Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We suggest:
Health

Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.

Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.

Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.

Emergency motion sickness relief

Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security

Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sodankylä. 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 these days, an AirTag can 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 stuff.
Given current world events, Finland 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

Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one

Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
What to do in Sodankylä, Finland
Sodankylä is a small yet beautiful town located in the heart of Lapland, Finland. This charming town is known for its natural beauty, rich history, and culture. Since it is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, lush forests, and pristine lakes, Sodankylä is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Sodankylä:
1. Pyhä-Luosto National Park – It is one of the most popular national parks in Finland that attracts visitors from all over the world. This park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna that can be explored by hiking, skiing, or snowshoeing. The park also has several trails with varying lengths and difficulty levels that cater to different interests and skill levels.
2. Sodankylä Old Church – This historical church is known for its unique architecture and cultural significance. The church was originally built in the 17th century and restored in the 18th century after it was destroyed during the Northern War. It is now a protected heritage site and a must-visit place for tourists who want to learn more about the town's history.
3. Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory – This is a unique research facility that studies the Earth's magnetic field and cosmic radiation. It is one of the few observatories in the world located in the Arctic region and has contributed significantly to the field of geophysics. Visitors can take a tour of the facility and learn about the experiments conducted here.
4. Tankavaara Gold Village – It is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors a glimpse of the Gold Rush era in Finland. This village has several attractions, including a gold museum, a jewelry store, and a gold panning site. Visitors can try their luck at gold panning and take home some gold as a souvenir.
5. Korouoma Canyon – It is a stunning natural attraction located near Sodankylä that offers breathtaking views of the canyon and its surroundings. Visitors can hike along the canyon trail and witness the beauty of the frozen waterfalls and crystal clear river.
In conclusion, Sodankylä is a hidden gem in Finland that has something to offer for everyone. From natural wonders to historical landmarks, this charming town is a perfect destination for tourists who want to experience the best of Lapland.
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: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, New Jersey, United States of America, Tissamaharama, Sri Lanka, Balboa, Panama, Southern Marmara, Turkey, Chintheche, Malawi, Nejd, Saudi Arabia, Mount Athos, Greece, North Chicago, Illinois, United States of America, Ifaty, Madagascar, Saransk, Russia, and Dien Bien Phu, Vietnam.