What to Pack for Finnish Summer

Summer in Finland is something really special — long days filled with sunlight (sometimes too much of it!), fresh air, and nature that’s alive and buzzing everywhere you look. But if you’re not used to it, packing for a Finnish summer trip can feel confusing. The weather varies a lot depending on where you go: Helsinki and southern Finland usually have warm, mild summers, while Lapland up north stays cooler and more unpredictable.

So if you want to make sure you’re comfortable and ready for whatever Finnish summer throws at you, this guide is for you. I’ve packed in everything I’ve learned from years of traveling here — what to bring, what to expect from the weather, and a few little extras that will make your trip much easier and more enjoyable.

Finnish Summer Weather — What to Expect

Southern Finland’s summer weather tends to be fairly mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15 to 25°C (59–77°F). You can expect warm, sunny days perfect for exploring Helsinki’s parks, strolling by the sea, or relaxing in a café. That said, rain showers do happen, so a rain jacket or umbrella is a must-have.

Up in Lapland, things are a bit different. Summer temperatures there usually hover between 5 and 20°C (41–68°F) — cooler, with crisp mornings and evenings. The landscape is stunning, but weather changes fast, and you might need warm layers even in July. One unique feature here is the midnight sun, which means it does not get dark at all for several weeks. This amazing natural phenomenon means you can explore well into the “night,” but it can also make sleeping tricky without a proper mask.

Of course you can get lucky and have days over 30°C in both Helsinki, or Lapland. That's when all Finns go crazy haha!

Both regions have long summer days compared to most places — sometimes up to 20 hours of daylight in the south and 24 hours up north! This makes Finland a dream destination for outdoor lovers but means packing for both warm sun and cooler temps is key.

Packing for Southern Finland Summer

If you’re sticking to the south — Helsinki, Turku, Tampere or the Archipelago — aim for clothes that keep you cool during warm days and layers for unpredictable weather and cooler evenings.

What to pack:

• Lightweight cotton or linen T-shirts and tops

• Long-sleeve shirts for sun protection and chilly evenings

• Light jacket or windbreaker — perfect for coastal breezes

• Comfortable pants, shorts, and skirts

• A casual dress or something smarter for dining out

• Swimwear for lakes, pools, or the sea

• Rain jacket or umbrella (southern summers can be rainy!)

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Sunglasses and a sun hat

Packing for Lapland Summer

Lapland’s summer is cooler and more variable, so layering is essential. Think mild mornings, warm afternoons, and chilly nights. Be prepared for strong winds on top of fells.

Don’t forget:

• Thermal base layers (merino wool is the best!)

• Warm fleece or wool sweaters

• Waterproof and windproof outer layers

• Hiking pants (quick-dry and durable)

• Long-sleeve shirts and T-shirts for layering

• Warm hat and gloves (yes, even in summer!)

• Hiking boots or sturdy waterproof shoes

• Swimwear for lake dips and sauna visits

• Sunglasses and sunscreen (the sun is strong up north!)

Small But Essential Extras for Your Finnish Summer Trip

Some little items make a huge difference in Finland, whether you’re in the city or wilderness:

• Sleeping mask: The midnight sun means almost no darkness in Lapland and bright nights in the south too. This helps you sleep better.

• Earplugs: Helpful for busy hostels or city noise.

• Mosquito Spray: You can buy this from all grocery stores and pharmacies in Finland

• Mosquito head net: A must-have in Lapland’s forests and lakesides, where mosquitoes love to hang out.

• Portable charger: For long hikes and days away from outlets.

• Reusable shopping bag: Finnish shops are eco-friendly and usually don’t give out bags.

• Lightweight towel: Great for swimming or sauna visits.

• Waterproof phone case or dry bag: Protect your gear during rainy days or water activities.

• Small flashlight or headlamp: Handy for camping or hiking during dusk hours.

• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF: Protect yourself from strong UV rays.

• Basic first aid kit: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, blister pads, and any meds you need.

• Snacks and Finnish treats: Finnish grocery stores are packed with amazing snacks and treats, so remember to check them out and grab some snacks for your adventures. When you're out in the nature, you'll most likely not find any stores around. Maybe a cafe if you get lucky!

Final Thoughts

Packing for Finnish summer means being ready for sun, rain, warmth, and coolness — sometimes all in one day! But with these tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy everything Finland has to offer, from city life in Helsinki to wild adventures in Lapland.

Don’t forget your sense of adventure — Finnish summer is waiting, and it’s unforgettable.