12 Essential Items for a Northern Lights Adventure
Seeing the northern lights, or dancing lights in the night sky, is many people’s dream. Imagine standing beneath the Arctic sky and looking up at ribbons of green, pink and violet bobbing above you. However, seeing the Northern Lights isn’t as easy as booking a flight and grabbing a jacket. You will need to plan beforehand, pack well, and most importantly, be warm and safe.
When you go to the Arctic regions, you need to prioritize comfort and protection. While harsh weather conditions, long nights and remote locations can be tough, with the right essentials you’ll be fully prepared for your Northern Lights experience. We’ve rounded up the must have items for this bucket list adventure, and practical advice to help you make the most of it.
Warm, Insulated Jacket
A well insulated jacket is essential to viewing the Northern Lights, which are usually seen in extremely cold environments. Search for a jacket made of high quality synthetic material which retains heat very well. In fact, if you live in some Arctic regions, the temperature can dip to as low as about -40°F, and experts suggest getting a quality jacket to help with long outdoor viewing.
Thermal Wear
When you’re standing still for hours under the sky, layering is key to retaining warmth. Wool or thermal fabric base layers will keep you warm without bulking you out. Body heat is trapped by thermals creating a cozy barrier between you and the biting cold.
Portable Power Bank
If you’re in a remote area, the cold may drain your phone and camera battery faster than normal. With a high capacity power bank, you can keep your devices charged, so you don’t miss out on those magical moments. The Northern Lights aren’t predictable so you don’t want to miss a rare display because your battery is dead.
Tripod
To capture the Northern Lights you need to have a tripod. This is a natural phenomenon that requires long exposure photography — i.e. holding your camera steady for long periods. A tripod with adjustable legs and a solid construction will hold your camera even on uneven, snowy ground. Having one can make the difference between a blurry shot and a crisp, awe inspiring photo.
Hand Warmers
Fingers can get numb quickly standing outside in sub zero temperatures. It’s also a good idea to pack some hand warmers. They can be tucked into gloves, pockets or boots for warmth where you want it. They’re an affordable, portable solution for staying comfortable when waiting out the cold for hours.
Insulated Gloves and Hat
Insulated gloves and a warm hat are often the first things you bring with you when you go outside because your extremities are often the first parts to feel the cold. Gloves that are touch screen compatible are what you want to look for so you can use your phone without exposing your fingers to the cold. A wool beanie or thermal hat will keep heat from escaping from your head, which is important because a lot of body heat is lost there.
Extra Socks
It might seem unimportant but extra socks can be a lifesaver, as even the best boots can sometimes let in the snow, and cold feet can make your experience miserable. Wool socks are the warmest, and packing a few extra pairs means you’ll always have a dry, cozy pair ready to go.
Weatherproof Boots
A quick way to ruin an adventure is cold, wet feet. If you’re into ice climbing, neck collar, insulated, waterproof, boots and sturdy soles are needed to be warm and steady on the icy terrain. The best boots for extreme temperatures will be those that sport a rating for extreme temperatures, allowing you to get extra warmth without sacrificing grip.
Snacks
Pack some high energy snacks because standing in the cold burns more energy than you’d think. These snacks include granola bars, nuts and dried fruits. They are easy foods to carry around and very nourishing foods to keep you warm and alert. Some travelers have even said that snacking occasionally is enough to ward off the shivers, providing a little bit of warmth to hold out a little longer.
Map and Compass
A traditional map and compass are smart to have on hand because remote Arctic locations may have little or no cell reception. They don’t need batteries or a signal and they offer an extra layer of security if you get lost. It may sound old fashioned, but Arctic guides still use these tools for a reason.
Headlamp or Flashlight
Most would know that when you are out in the woods during the night, the best companion is a good flashlight or a headlamp. Ensure that it has a red-light mode to help save your night vision as well as the people around you when using it. Some headlamps are equipped with tunable outputs which allow you to dim or brighten your headlamp as desired. Another advantage of having free hands is that you can use the lights to set up a camera, or look around without dropping your equipment.
Hot Drinks Thermos
Who wouldn’t love a cup of hot beverage on a cold evening? Take a thermos of coffee, tea or hot chocolate and sip as you wait for the lights to come on. For many travelers this little comfort goes a long way. It is also a good way to get acquainted with other travelers while all of you are waiting for the show in the sky.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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