Umeå, Sweden: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Umeå, Sweden? If you're planning to go to Umeå, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Umeå, Sweden

Based on the climate and weather in Umeå, Sweden, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Umeå, Sweden

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Umeå, Sweden by month

January

January in Umeå is biting cold and extremely snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C). It tends to rain sometimes. It also snows most days. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 80% to 90% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sweden 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 belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A great 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

If you go to the Bildmuseet, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in Umeå can be bitter cold and very snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C). It tends to rain occasionally. It also snows about two thirds of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 80% to 90% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sweden 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 belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. Ensure that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you go to the Bildmuseet, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March is frigid and very snowy. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains a bit less than 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, Sweden has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Umeå. 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 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. Check that you choose the right type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • 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 huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to the Bildmuseet, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you go to Umeå in April, you will notice that it can be very chilly and somewhat snowy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this 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, Sweden has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Umeå. 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 airlines repeatedly losing luggage 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

  • 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 choose the correct type. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to the Bildmuseet, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in Umeå is brisk and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sweden 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you 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 Umeå. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Bildmuseet, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

In June, Umeå is crisp and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (high 10s C) and a bit less than half of the time jump into the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Umeå, with several of the days of the month having rain. In June, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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. It's important that you get the right type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

If you go to the Bildmuseet, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you go to Umeå in July, you will notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • 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 Umeå. 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 recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to choose the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are simply 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 be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Bildmuseet, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you go to Umeå in August, you will notice that it is cool and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sweden 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 belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Umeå. 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 constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

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 neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to the Bildmuseet, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

Traveling to Umeå in September, you will notice that it is pretty cool and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Bildmuseet, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you vacation in Umeå during October, you might see that it is pretty cool and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 40s 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 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time and snow sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate 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 belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Bildmuseet, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November here is very cold, somewhat snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time and snows about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Umeå. 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 luggage 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 penalties 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. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

If you go to the Bildmuseet, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December here is biting cold and very snowy. Temperatures average in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains sometimes and snows about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Umeå. 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 airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • 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

If you go to the Bildmuseet, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Umeå, Sweden

Umeå, one of the largest cities in northern Sweden, is a great destination for tourists looking to explore the country's stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. As a modern, vibrant city with a lively arts and cultural scene, Umeå offers plenty of tourist attractions. Below, we list some of the top tourist attractions in Umeå that should not be missed.

1. The Västerbottens Museum: This excellent museum is devoted to the cultural heritage of the Västerbotten region, with exhibits covering everything from Sami history to local folk traditions. The museum also houses a fascinating collection of early 20th-century photographs that offer a rare glimpse into life in the north of Sweden at the time.

2. Gammlia Open-Air Museum: Located on the outskirts of the city, this living museum is an excellent place to learn about life in the north of Sweden throughout history. Here, visitors can walk through a traditional Sami settlement, explore old buildings, and learn about traditional crafts such as textile making.

3. Umeå Arts Campus: This vibrant arts and cultural scene is home to a number of museums and galleries, as well as the Umeå International Film Festival. Visitors can also enjoy performances of theatre, dance, and music throughout the year.

4. The Skellefteå River: This beautiful river runs through Umeå and is known for its abundant salmon fishing opportunities. Visitors to the area can enjoy a scenic walk along the riverbank, or take a guided fishing tour to try their luck at catching the big one.

5. The NorrlandsOperan: This contemporary opera house is one of the city's most unique buildings, with striking architecture that combines glass, steel, and wood. Visitors can take a guided tour, attend an opera performance, or enjoy a meal at the onsite restaurant.

6. The Umeälven River: This stunning river winds through the center of the city and offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Visitors can also take a scenic boat tour to see the area's stunning natural scenery.

7. The Bildmuseet: Located on the university campus, this contemporary art museum is recognized as one of the best in Sweden. Visitors can explore exhibits by both emerging and established artists from around the world, as well as take part in workshops and other events.

8. The Umedalens Skulpturpark: This modern sculpture park is unlike anything else in Sweden, with over 40 sculptures scattered throughout the park's grounds. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the park while taking in works by some of the most famous artists of our time.

In conclusion, Umeå is a wonderful place for tourists to explore. From stunning natural scenery to vibrant arts and culture scenes, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Umeå. Whether you are interested in history, contemporary art, or the great outdoors, this northern city has something for everyone.

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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