Family Lapland Holidays 2026 – How to Plan the Perfect Santa Trip

A Lapland Santa holiday is one of the most magical experiences you can give your children – snowy adventures, husky rides, reindeer sleighs, and of course, that unforgettable meeting with Santa himself. For many families in Cheshire and Staffordshire, a Lapland family trip is top of the festive wish list.

But with these trips selling out fast and every detail mattering, planning ahead is essential. As a local Lapland travel expert, I’ve arranged countless winter wonderland holidays for families (and been there myself with my children), so here are my insider tips to help you create the perfect Lapland 2026 holiday.

1. BOOK YOU LAPLAND TRIP EARLY

Lapland breaks are incredibly popular and availability disappears quickly. If you want the best prices, choice of resorts, and guaranteed Santa experiences, you’ll need to book at least a year in advance. That means families dreaming of Lapland in Christmas 2026 should start planning now.

Tip: midweek departures are usually cheaper than weekends – but balance this against the possibility of school absences.

2. EXPECT EARLY FLIGHTS FROM MANCHESTER AND NEARBY AIRPORTS

Most flights to Lapland (from Manchester, Birmingham and other UK airports) depart around 6am, with check-in often before 4am. The flight takes around 3.5 hours, and you’ll want to be prepared for a full day once you land.

Children will be excited, but factor in that the long days may leave them too tired to go straight back to school following your trip.

3. BUDGET FOR EXTRAS LIKE THERMALS AND SNACKS

While most Lapland holiday packages are full board and include snow suits and boots, you’ll still need plenty of warm layers: thermals, hats, scarves and gloves. Buying second-hand via sites like Vinted can save money without compromising on warmth.

I also always recommend packing snacks – kids burn through energy quickly in the snow. While hot berry juice and ginger biscuits flow freely in Lapland, familiar favourites from home are handy to keep little ones happy.

4. DON'T OVER SCHEDULE YOUR LAPLAND HOLIDAY

With so many optional extras – husky safaris, snowmobile adventures, Northern Lights hunts – it’s tempting to book them all. But overloading your itinerary can make the trip tiring rather than magical.

The right package will include tasters of the most important experiences. Remember, some of the best moments come from slowing down: sledging, snowball fights, or simply playing in the snow with your children.

5. WHAT YOUR FAMILY CAN EXPECT IN LAPLAND

The magic begins as soon as you land. From elves playing tricks at baggage claim to scenic coach rides through snowy forests (keep an eye out for reindeer!), the sense of wonder starts immediately.

One of the highlights is Santa’s Winter Wonderland day – with reindeer sleigh rides, husky trips, snowmobiling, tobogganing, marshmallow toasting, and Christmassy performances.

The unforgettable moment, of course, is meeting Santa himself.

Pro tip: don’t leave Santa until the very end of the day when queues can sometimes be long in freezing temperatures. Visit earlier to avoid the wait.

6. THE OLDER KIDS AND GROWN UPS

If Santa isn’t your thing, there is a Lapland for everyone. The trick is finding the right experience for you.

Older children, teenagers and adults may not want a 'Meet Santa' experience. Some will want to be active in winter sports and some may want the authentic winter experiences like snow mobiling, husky rides or ice fishing.

I have access to all suppliers, resorts and experiences to make sure you get the experience you truly want - not an off-the-shelf package.

7. CHOOSE THE RIGHT LAPLAND RESORT FOR YOUR FAMILY

Lapland offers something for every style of traveller. You’ll find: • Remote log cabins for secluded, snowy stays • Cosy forest lodges full of rustic charm • Glass-roof igloos for unforgettable Northern Lights views • Lively ski resorts with shops, heated pools, and family activities

Choosing the right base makes the difference between a nice trip and a truly magical family holiday. That’s why working with a trusted Lapland travel consultant helps – I’ll listen to your family’s wishes and match you to the perfect resort.

READY TO BOOK YOUR LAPLAND HOLIDAY FOR 2026?

If a Santa trip to Lapland is on your wish list, I’d love to help make it happen. My service comes with no fees, and as part of Travel Counsellors, you can be sure of ATOL and financial protection.

I’ll also be running a Lapland Pop-Up Travel Clinic at Home Coffee Shop on Sunday 26th October. Book a time to chat about your plans, get personal advice, and secure your trip.

Call me on 01270 917091 or email sara.dickenson@travelcounsellors.com to book your consultation or arrange an online appointment.