Tromsø, Norway: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
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Traveling to Tromsø, Norway? If you're planning to go to Tromsø, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Tromsø
- Important essentials for Tromsø
- Activities for Tromsø
- Tromsø in January: weather and what to pack
- Tromsø in February: weather and what to pack
- Tromsø in March: weather and what to pack
- Tromsø in April: weather and what to pack
- Tromsø in May: weather and what to pack
- Tromsø in June: weather and what to pack
- Tromsø in July: weather and what to pack
- Tromsø in August: weather and what to pack
- Tromsø in September: weather and what to pack
- Tromsø in October: weather and what to pack
- Tromsø in November: weather and what to pack
- Tromsø in December: weather and what to pack

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.
When to go to Tromsø, Norway
Based on the climate and weather in Tromsø, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
Important essentials for Tromsø, Norway
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Tromsø, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
-
N95 masks to use in crowded airports
These N95 masks provide the best level of COVID protection possible.
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards frequently become worn. An unreadable vaccination card may result in severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps avoid that.
Travel insurance
If you or a companion get COVID-19, your amazing trip can be ruined. Good travel insurance can help. See plans
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks don't exist for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
General health necessities
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 excellent kit.
-
Emergency motion sickness relief
Don't forget these
-
For families with young children
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Tromsø. 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.
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. This one is sufficent for most locations, but check with your hotel.
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
What to wear/what to pack for Tromsø, Norway by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January in Tromsø is frigid. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C) to high 20s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Lip balm
Our pick: this one
-
Gloves
-
Sweaters
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Tromsø, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is a perfect choice.
-
Ski accessories
Tromsø has some famous 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
If you plan go to a monastery, like The Carmel Monastery, take the following:
If you go to The Arctic Alpine Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
February
February in Tromsø is frigid. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). 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:
-
Gloves
-
Sweaters
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Lip balm
Our pick: this
-
Heavy jacket
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Tromsø, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is essential here. This one is an excellent option.
-
Ski accessories
Tromsø 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
If you plan go to a monastery, like The Carmel Monastery, take the following:
If you go to The Arctic Alpine Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
March
March for Tromsø is frigid. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains or snows a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Sweaters
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Gloves
-
Lip balm
Our pick: here
-
Insulated water bottle
Our choice:
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Tromsø, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is important here. This one is a perfect choice.
-
Ski accessories
Tromsø has some great skiing 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
If you plan go to a monastery, like The Carmel Monastery, take the following:
If you go to The Arctic Alpine Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
April
April in Tromsø is frosty. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Gloves
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Lip balm
Our pick is: here
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Sweaters
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Tromsø, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is a perfect choice.
-
Ski accessories
Tromsø has some great skiing 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
If you plan go to a monastery, like The Carmel Monastery, take the following:
If you go to The Arctic Alpine Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
May
If you go to Tromsø in May, you will notice that it is brisk. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Jacket or coat
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: here
-
Fleece
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Extra socks
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We suggest:
If you plan go to a monastery, like The Carmel Monastery, take the following:
If you go to The Arctic Alpine Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
June
If you vacation in Tromsø during June, you will probably find that it is brisk. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s 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 a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Dresses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Pants or jeans
-
Standard footwear
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Extra socks
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We suggest:
If you plan go to a monastery, like The Carmel Monastery, take the following:
If you go to The Arctic Alpine Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
July
July in Tromsø is cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extra socks
-
Pants or jeans
-
Standard footwear
-
Dresses
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
If you plan go to a monastery, like The Carmel Monastery, take the following:
If you go to The Arctic Alpine Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
August
August in Tromsø is cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Extra socks
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Standard footwear
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Dresses
-
Pants or jeans
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We suggest:
If you plan go to a monastery, like The Carmel Monastery, take the following:
If you go to The Arctic Alpine Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
September
If you are traveling to Tromsø in September, you will notice that it can be very chilly. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Dresses
-
Extra socks
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Standard footwear
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Pants or jeans
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
If you plan go to a monastery, like The Carmel Monastery, take the following:
If you go to The Arctic Alpine Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
October
October here is brisk. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains or snows about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this one
-
Extra socks
-
Jacket or coat
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Fleece
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Tromsø, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is an excellent choice.
-
Ski accessories
Tromsø has some famous skiing 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
If you plan go to a monastery, like The Carmel Monastery, take the following:
If you go to The Arctic Alpine Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
November
November in Tromsø is freezing. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). 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:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Sweaters
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
-
Gloves
-
Lip balm
Our pick: this
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Tromsø, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is an excellent option.
-
Ski accessories
Tromsø has some great skiing 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
If you plan go to a monastery, like The Carmel Monastery, take the following:
If you go to The Arctic Alpine Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
December
Traveling to Tromsø in December, you will notice that it can be extremely cold. Expect it to rain or snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Gloves
-
Lip balm
Our choice: this
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Heavy jacket
-
Sweaters
-
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Tromsø, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is a perfect choice.
-
Ski accessories
Tromsø has some excellent 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
If you plan go to a monastery, like The Carmel Monastery, take the following:
If you go to The Arctic Alpine Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Activities for Tromsø, Norway
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Tromsø.
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