How to plan the perfect family adventure to Lapland

A family trip to Lapland is a magical adventure filled with snow-dusted forests, reindeer sleigh rides, and the chance to meet Santa Claus in his homeland. But like any holiday, a bit of planning goes a long way to ensure everything runs smoothly. Here’s your guide to planning the perfect family getaway to Lapland.

When and Where to Go The best time to visit Lapland is between late November and early January, when the festive spirit is in full swing. However, for those who want to avoid peak season crowds, late January to March is a great option as the days are longer, and there’s still plenty of snow for activities.

Lapland spans northern Finland, Sweden, and Norway, but Finnish Lapland is the most popular for families. Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, is officially recognised as the home of Santa Claus and offers a range of family-friendly resorts and activities. Other notable spots include Levi, Saariselkä, and Kittilä, which provide a more tranquil winter wonderland experience.

How Long to Go For A Lapland adventure doesn’t have to be long to be magical. Most family trips are between 3-5 days, giving you enough time to soak in the festive spirit and try some amazing winter activities. For longer trips, you can add excursions or explore the northern wilderness beyond Santa’s village.

When to Book Lapland is a bucket-list destination, so it’s important to book early—ideally a year in advance. Popular dates in December fill up quickly, especially for Santa experiences, family-friendly accommodations, and flights. Early booking also gives you access to the best deals and ensures your family gets the perfect itinerary.

What to Wear Lapland is cold—temperatures can drop to -20°C or lower. Here’s how to keep warm:

Base Layer: Thermal tops and leggings. Mid Layer: Fleece or wool jumpers and trousers. Outer Layer: Insulated, waterproof ski suits or snowsuits. Accessories: Hats, thermal gloves, scarves, and balaclavas for exposed skin. Footwear: Sturdy, insulated snow boots with wool socks. Most tour operators or resorts provide thermal suits and boots for outdoor activities, but it’s best to confirm in advance.

What to Pack In addition to warm clothing, here are a few other essentials:

Hand warmers: Perfect for kids during outdoor activities. Layered socks: To keep little feet warm and dry. Portable charger: Cold temperatures drain phone batteries quickly. Backpack: For snacks, water, and extra clothing during excursions. Lip balm and moisturiser: To protect skin from the dry, icy air.

Activities to Make It Extra Special Lapland is bursting with family-friendly activities that create lifelong memories:

Visit Santa’s Village: Meet Santa Claus, send postcards from his official post office, and cross the Arctic Circle in Rovaniemi. Reindeer Sleigh Rides: A serene journey through snowy forests with Rudolph and his friends. Husky Sledding: A thrilling ride pulled by a pack of enthusiastic huskies. Snowmobile Safaris: Suitable for older kids and parents, this is a fun way to explore the frozen wilderness. Northern Lights Hunts: Witness the magical aurora borealis—many resorts offer guided tours for this unforgettable experience. Ice Fishing and Snowshoeing: A slower-paced way to enjoy the winter scenery. Build an Igloo: Many resorts offer igloo-building workshops, perfect for hands-on fun.

Making the Experience Extra Special To add a touch of magic:

Stay in a glass igloo or an ice hotel for a truly unique experience. Book a private Santa experience for an exclusive meeting with Father Christmas. Surprise the kids with an Elf School experience, where they can learn toy-making and other festive crafts. Plan a Christmas Eve feast with traditional Lappish dishes, such as reindeer stew and cloudberry desserts. Tips for Families Prepare the Kids: Talk about the cold and the activities beforehand to get them excited and ready. Stick to Short Excursions: Many activities are just 1-2 hours long, which is perfect for younger kids. Check Age Restrictions: Some activities, like snowmobiles, have minimum age requirements. Plan for Downtime: After all the fun, having time to relax at the hotel with hot cocoa is just as magical. Lapland is a destination that brings childhood dreams to life and creates memories that last a lifetime. With a bit of planning, your family adventure to this enchanting winter wonderland will be nothing short of extraordinary.

Ready to start planning? Let’s chat about creating your family’s perfect Lapland experience.