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, 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
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • 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.

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
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 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.

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
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 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.

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
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 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • 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.

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
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 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • 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.

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
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 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.

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
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 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.

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
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 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • 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.

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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