FAQ Lapland
Fancy a trip to Lapland? This is an adventure-lover’s dream – especially if you love winter, snow and wrapping up warm!
There is a lot to think about when planning a holiday, from what to pack to any essential admin to do. To help you along the way, our team of destination specialists have put together the most commonly asked questions from other travellers so you can focus on the exciting bit!
We have tried to cover as much as possible below but if you still find yourself with questions please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team.
Before departure
- How long does my passport need to be valid for?keyboard_arrow_down
In order to travel to the Schengen area, your passport must be:
- Issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
- Valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)
- Do I need a visa to visit Lapland?keyboard_arrow_down
If you are a British Passport holder you do not need a visa to visit Sweden, Norway or Finland, but there are some specific details you need to be aware of – check out our visa page for the full details.
- Do I need travel insurance for my trip?keyboard_arrow_down
Yes, we would always recommend taking out comprehensive travel insurance when travelling, especially overseas, that is suitable for your requirements and needs. For any winter sports you might do during your time in Lapland, we recommend ensuring you get adequate cover.
- What should I pack for a trip to Lapland?keyboard_arrow_down
When packing for a trip to Lapland, it’s important to keep in mind the cold winter climate. Make sure to bring warm and waterproof clothing, including thermal layers, a winter coat suitable for these temperatures, gloves, a hat, and snow boots – some items you may be able to rent at home or in Lapland rather than buy if you prefer.
- What vaccinations do I need to visit Lapland?keyboard_arrow_down
It is always best to get the advice of a GP or travel nurse before travelling overseas to check which vaccinations you might need or if any boosters are required. The Fit for Travel website provides a comprehensive guide on all the vaccinations you should consider.
Departure
- What do I need to think about on the day of departure?keyboard_arrow_down
We know heading off on holiday is always a little bit stressful, especially on the day you leave, so we would advise doing these things before you depart:
- Check you have all your necessary documentation, including your passport!
- Take a photo of your documents and email it to yourself and travelling partners. Having a copy on your phone always comes in handy too.
- Ensure you have all your chargers and converters for any phones, cameras, tablets you are taking. A portable battery pack is a handy item to have in your hand luggage.
- Take snacks and a big bottle of water for your flight.
- Get to the airport with plenty of time to spare, we advise arriving 3 hours prior to your flight departure.
- Pack a change of clothes in your hand luggage and take a photo of your checked bag in case it goes missing en route.
- Sit back and relax knowing we have your holiday sorted!
Arrival
- What language do people speak in Lapland?keyboard_arrow_down
As Lapland bridges across multiple countries you will find a variety of languages are spoken, including Finnish, Swedish, Norwegian, and Sami. The specific language spoken depends on the country or region you are in. English is widely spoken so you should have no problems communicating. A phrase book is a handy thing to have on you just in case though and it’s always polite to know the basics.
- What is the food like in Lapland?keyboard_arrow_down
The cuisine of Lapland is influenced by the many countries and regions it covers. Traditional dishes include ingredients such as reindeer meat, fish, berries, and mushrooms. The food in this region is known for being hearty and packed with flavour, often incorporating local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Lapland also has a growing foodie scene with many restaurants and cafes offering a blend of traditional and modern Nordic cuisine.
- What aspects of the culture in Lapland do I need to take into account?keyboard_arrow_down
Whilst visiting Lapland, it is important to take into account the culture and customs of the Sami people, who are the indigenous population of the region. Respect their beliefs and traditions and be mindful of the environment and wildlife. In Nordic cultures they have a strong emphasis on equality, respect for personal space, and a love for nature. Additionally, punctuality is highly valued, and small talk is not as common as in some other cultures.
Safety
- Is it safe to travel to Lapland?keyboard_arrow_down
Lapland is considered a very safe region to visit, of course exercise the same caution as you would anywhere and keep your belongings in sight.
- What do I do if I have a problem?keyboard_arrow_down
We are contactable in the UK during office hours and our local partners in destination are available 24/7 for any support or help you might need. They are in the best position as they will be in the same timezone, they should be your first contact in a case of emergency.
Tips and practical information
- What is the local currency in Lapland?keyboard_arrow_down
In Finnish Lapland you pay with euros. You can withdraw money with your debit card in Rovaniemi and Äkäslompolo, but not in the smaller villages. You can recognize the Finnish ATMs by the OTTO logo. Norwegian kroner (NOK) is used in Norwegian Lapland. In Tromsø you will find several ATMs, both at the airport and in the city centre. In Swedish Lapland you will use Swedish kronor (SEK). In both Luleå and Kiruna you will find some ATMs; in the outlying area you cannot withdraw money, but you can pay with a credit card.
In Finland, Norway and Sweden, using a credit card is very common; the locals often pay for even small purchases with a credit card.
- How does tipping in Lapland work?keyboard_arrow_down
Tipping is not customary in Lapland (or the rest of Scandinavia). In restaurants, service is usually included in the price though and it is standard to round up the price when paying.
