10 Skills to Master for an Authentic Lapland Experience
Lapland is a land of striking beauty, all the way from the magical midnight sun to the sound of silence of polar nights and the mesmerizing Northern Lights. While Lapland scenery is undeniably stunning, it’s also a place of pure wilderness.
Whether you’re visiting for a short adventure or staying for several months, mastering these 10 skills can make your Lapland experience not just easier, but far more authentic.
They won’t just help with daily life, but will also deepen your connection with nature, people, and local culture.
1. Dressing for Extreme Weather
Layering is key in Lapland, where temperatures can swing from warm summer days to below -30°C in winter. Start with high-quality base layers, add insulation such as wool or fleece without forgetting windproof and waterproof outerwear. Don’t underestimate the importance of good footwear, gloves, and headwear, even in summer.
Read more: How to dress and survive in Lapland
2. Firemaking
Knowing how to make a fire is essential for staying warm, boiling water and preparing food, whether you’re at a laavu (lean-to shelter) or camping under the stars. Learning to safely start a fire in different conditions is a must wilderness skill. Always remember to check local fire regulations, especially during summer when fire bans or restrictions may be in place.
Snow meeting spark in Lapland.
Read more: Top 3 winter activities for Nature Lovers
3. Navigation & Reading Nature
In remote areas such as Lapland, your GPS or mobile data might disconnect. Learning to read a map, use a compass, and recognize natural landmarks can keep you safe and make your hikes more engaging. Understanding signs from nature, such as tracks or changing weather, adds another level to your wilderness awareness.
4. Understanding Sámi Culture
Lapland is the home of the Sámi people, the only recognized Indigenous people in the EU. Learning about Sámi history, traditions, language and modern-day life shows respect and deepens your understanding of the region. Honouring the heritage makes it easier to connect with locals and Lapland as a whole.
Read more: Top 3 winter activities for Culture Enthusiasts
5. Collecting & Foraging
Lapland’s forests offer seasonal berries and mushrooms every summer. Learning to identify what is edible and what is not makes your outdoor adventures both safer and more rewarding. There are many delicious treasures waiting to be discovered, but always keep it safe!
A traditional wooden “kuksa” filled with berries.
Read more: 8 seasons in Lapland
6. Sauna Etiquette
The sauna is a sacred space in Finnish culture and Lapland is no exception. Understanding basic sauna etiquette and respecting the peaceful atmosphere helps you fit in with the locals and truly enjoy this relaxing communal tradition.
Read More: Top 3 winter activities for Culture Enthusiasts
7. Mentality
Life in Lapland simply follows nature’s rhythm. Conditions may be harsh, slow or unpredictable. Cultivating a mindset of patience, flexibility, and appreciation for the moment will help you adapt to long, dark winters, constant daylight and everything in between.
8. Paddling Skills & Water Safety
During summer, Lapland’s lakes and rivers are ideal for exploration. Mastering basic paddling techniques, whether in a canoe, kayak, or packraft, adds a whole new dimension to your Lapland adventures. Always wear a life vest, check weather forecasts, and learn basic self-rescue skills to stay safe on the water.
The reflection of the midnight sun on the lake.
9. Insect Protection
Mosquitoes and other insects are a part of summer life in Lapland. While there’s no escaping them entirely, choosing the right clothing, using eco-friendly repellents and understanding when and where they are most active will make a huge difference in your comfort outdoors.
10. Managing Sleep During the Midnight Sun
In summer, the sun doesn’t set in the majority of Lapland, which can easily disrupt your sleeping rhythm. Sticking to a consistent routine, using blackout curtains and calming down at the same time each night will help you rest easier, even when it’s bright outside at midnight.