This Svalbard packing list covers what we packed for a week in July. Our excursions included two boat tours, a hike over a glacier and dinner in a remote cabin.
If you're wondering what to wear in Svalbard in summer, our guide is tailored for trips from June to September, when average temperatures range from 1°C to 5°C (35°F to 41°F).
These essentials kept us warm, dry, and ready for anything on land and water. We’ve even taken most of this gear on multi-day treks in Nepal, Peru, and Patagonia, so it’s proven itself in wild places like Svalbard.
Planning a trip to the Arctic in summer? Check out our 5 Day Svalbard Itinerary and list of 16 fun things to do in Svalbard in summer.
Overview: What to pack for Svalbard
• 100% merino wool base layer • Cozy fleece mid-layer • Windproof down jacket • Durable hiking pants • Odour-resistant merino t-shirt • Waterproof shell jacket • Waterproof shell pants • Waterproof hiking boots • Gaiters (weather-dependent) |
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Svalbard Packing List
We break our packing list down into warm layers, waterproof gear, accessories, and other outdoor essentials.
1. Warm Layers
100% Merino wool base layer
If you haven't heard of a base layer, it's a lightweight, moisture-wicking piece you wear next to your skin to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable during your activities.
Look for long base layer made from 100% merino wool - it provides insulation, odour resistance, temperature regulation, breathability, moisture-wicking, and softness.
I love Icebreaker's long sleeved shirt and leggings. I'ts 100% merino wool and very comfortable. I've owned it for years.Cozy fleece mid-layer
Bring a fleece zip up (with no hood) for extra warmth and easy layering. It's nice to wear in town if you want a break from your puffy down jacket. My fleece is from The North Face. Ari loves Aclima's thicker merino mid-layer - the premium Norwegian brand is even worn by the Norwegian army. You can buy Aclima tax free in Svalbard!Windproof down jacket
Invest in a high-quality down jacket that can handle cold temperatures and biting winds. I chose the Infinity Alpine Down Jacket from Rab specifically for my trip to Svalbard, and it was love at first wear.The highly-insulated down kept me warm, and the Gore-Tex Infinium Windstopper technology made the jacket completely windproof, even in piercing winds on our boat tour. It's designed for climbers and alpinists, so is lightweight and will keep you warm on any Arctic tour.
Note: since it's only water resistant, you'll need to wear a waterproof shell overtop to protect yourself from wet weather.
Shop Womens | Shop MensDurable hiking pants
I've brought my Arcteryx Gamma Pants all around the world for multi-day treks. They have the ideal stretch, breathability and durability. I love the soft waistband and you can easily make them into capris with the drawstring. They are great to bring on any kind of tour. Shop Womens | Shop MensOdour-resistant merino t-shirt
I'm a big fan of Icebreaker's merino products. I've used these odour-resistant t-shirts for long hikes and love their breathability. Shop Womens | Shop Mens2. Waterproof Gear
Waterproof gear is a must for staying dry and warm in Svalbard’s unpredictable weather. The wind chill, especially on boat tours, makes it hard to stay warm if you’re wet. And if you feel seasick, you won’t want to be too cold to step outside for fresh air.
Waterproof shell jacket
A waterproof shell jacket is essential for wet weather. If you're on a tour with a smaller boat, prepare for splashes. We've both been using our Arcteryx shell jacket for years and are very pleased with it. It's top-of-the-line for its lightweight design, durability, breathability and waterproof protection. Shop Womens | Shop MensTop Tip: We recommend bringing your mid-layer pieces into the store and trying them on with the shell jacket to ensure it all layers comfortably.
Waterproof shell pants
These Waterproof splash pants from Taiga are a great value, super lightweight, and easy to pack in your bag in case of downpours.Waterproof Hiking Boots
Bring waterproof hiking boots with good grip that are suitable for icy terrain. If you're doing any hiking or glacier walks, make sure they cover your ankles and provide sturdy support.
I personally love La Sportiva's hiking boots, but I recommend going to a store to try on different brands. Everyone's feet are so different!Gaiters (weather-dependent)
If you're doing a hike, double check with your tour company how much snow you're anticipated to walk through. We didn't need gaiters for our hike in July. Gaiters wrap around your lower legs and boots to keep the snow out of your ankles.
3. Accessories
Waterproof mitts and breathable glove liners
I wear breathable windproof gloves for dexterity and then layer them with waterproof mitts when I need the extra warmth and to keep my hands dry.Warm hat that covers your ears
My head gets quite itchy from hats, so I love this North Face Beanie that has a fleece interior.Buff
Protect your neck and face from the chilly wind with a buff. These merino wool buffs from Icebreaker come in fun colours. Buffs are lightweight and easy to pack. They can make a huge difference on a windy day.Merino wool socks
Merino wool socks are great for keeping your toes warm, but I've found some brands to be a bit itchy. Icebreaker is the one brand that doesn't itch my feet! Their Light Hiking Socks are meant for day hikes, while their Medium Hiking Socks are meant for longer, multi-day hikes.Hiking Poles
If you're doing a hike in Svalbard, we recommend using hiking poles. We did a moderate 11km hike, but the terrain was quite uneven with a lot of scree. I love my hiking poles from Black Diamond - the carbon fibre construction keeps them light yet strong, and the cork grips feel comfortable on the hand.A heads up: Ask your tour company first if they supply hiking poles - it will save you room in your suitcase!
4. Other Outdoor Essentials
☀️ Sunscreen and sunglasses with UV protection - necessary for the bright Arctic light, especially during the polar day.
🎒 Day pack - a small, durable pack for day trips. If it's not waterproof, put your important items in a dry bag inside.💧 Water bottle - stay hydrated!
📷 Camera - plus a long zoom lens for those wildlife shots and a Peak Designs camera clip on your belt to keep it ready.
🔌 Chargers and adapters - the plugs they use are Type F (standard European two-round-pin plug).
👙 Swimsuit - if you plan on visiting the sauna
💊 Non-drowsy boat sickness pills - Ginger Gravol saved us!
🧴 Body lotion and lip balm - the cold conditions make your skin dry
🎧 Headphones - don't forget to offline your playlists on Spotify.
🧶 Cozy sweater and pants - for dinners in Longyearbyen
🏥 Travel Insurance - make sure it covers the activities you're doing
We hope our Svalbard packing list has you feeling ready for your adventure!
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Get started on booking your trip to Svalbard
- 🛌 Book your accommodation: Booking.com is our go-to for finding places to stay. Sort by top reviewed.
- 🚤 Book your tours: Visit Svalbard is a great resource that lists tours.
- ✈️ Compare flights: with Skyscanner
Don't forget about travel insurance
👩⚕️ For affordable travel insurance: go with SafetyWing - it's budget-friendly and you can even buy it while abroad, but note the max medical coverage is $250,000 USD. 🏥 For comprehensive travel insurance: go with World Nomads - it's more expensive, but the max emergency medical coverage is $5-10 million, depending on the plan.Save and pin this Svalbard packing list for later:
