Many people assume that Lapland, with its snow-covered wilderness and sub-zero temperatures, is best reserved for the adventurous or those travelling child-free. But can you visit Lapland with a toddler or a baby? The answer is a resounding yes — and it can be even more magical when experienced through the eyes of a child.
We’ve visited Lapland both before having kids and after, and while the experience is quite different, it’s not in a bad way. With children, you naturally slow down, become more present, and take in the charm of the Arctic with fresh eyes. Gone is the pressure to tick off a list of a dozen activities a day. Instead, you focus on one highlight and leave space for spontaneous fun — snowball fights, sleigh rides, and simply marveling at the snowy landscapes.
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Is Lapland Kid-Friendly?
Absolutely. Lapland is one of the most family-friendly travel destinations in the world. Scandinavian (and Nordic) culture places a strong emphasis on children’s wellbeing. You’ll find that locals are incredibly welcoming, and it’s not uncommon to receive warm smiles — even if your toddler is having a meltdown.
Whether it’s accessible transport options, baby-friendly accommodations, or activities designed for little ones, Lapland delivers. You’ll never feel like you’re inconveniencing anyone by travelling with young children. Moreover, kids get very generous discounts everywhere or eat for free at buffets. So, yes, you can definitely go to Lapland with a toddler.
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How to Get to Lapland with a Toddler (or a Baby)?
1. By Plane
The quickest and most convenient way to reach Lapland with a toddler is by air. Airports in Rovaniemi, Kittilä, and Ivalo offer connections from Helsinki as well as many major European cities. With Lapland’s growing popularity, there’s an increasing number of direct seasonal flights from across Europe — especially during the winter months.
We highly recommend flying with Finnair
. In our experience, they combine excellent service with impressive expertise in handling extreme weather — something especially important when flying into or out of Helsinki. They’re also very child-friendly: we paid just around €20 for our child under 2, and he was allowed both a full-size suitcase and a stroller. Of all the airlines we’ve used with a toddler, Finnair has been the best by far.
2. By Train from Helsinki
Connecting flights via Helsinki can get expensive during high season. A budget-friendly — and surprisingly kid-friendly — alternative is the overnight train to Rovaniemi. Children under 10 travel for free on night trains, and the sleeper train itself is an adventure. For more info, check the official site of the Finnish Railway Services (VR). Our toddler was completely captivated by everything: the speaker announcements, the big windows, and the bunk beds.
That said, be aware that the cabins are compact. Traveling with large suitcases or a stroller can make the space feel tight, though it’s still manageable. And if you’re sharing a bed with your little one, you might not get the most restful sleep. Still, it felt more like a memorable experience than a hassle — and we’d absolutely do it again.
What to Pack for a Week in Lapland with a Toddler (or a Baby)?
Packing wisely is key. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to bring your kids’ entire wardrobe. High-quality, layered outfits are far more effective than bulky clothes. One well-layered outfit can be worn multiple times, especially with merino wool. Focus on warmth, comfort, and waterproofing, and you’re good to go! Here’s a comprehensive list of what to bring — with a focus on kids but applicable to the whole family.
Base layers (2-3 sets)
Start with merino wool base layers. These are warm, breathable, moisture-wicking, and naturally odor-resistant. Unlike synthetic thermal wear, merino doesn’t trap sweat and rarely needs washing. Simply hang them outside overnight — the cold, dry air freshens them up perfectly.
Tip: Avoid polyester or synthetic blends for children, as they can cause overheating and sweating, which leads to chills.
- Merino wool long-sleeved tops
- Merino wool leggings
- Long merino socks
Mid layers (3-4 sets)
On top of your base layers, you’ll need an insulating mid-layer. Think thick wool sweaters or fleece jackets, plus lined pants made from breathable materials like cotton or wool.
- Wool/fleece sweaters or hoodies
- Insulated pants or fleece-lined joggers
Outerwear (waterproof & windproof)
The outer layer is your child’s first line of defense against snow, wind, and wet weather — and it needs to be reliable. We highly recommend Reima, a trusted Finnish brand that specializes in high-performance winter gear for children. Designed specifically for extreme Nordic conditions, Reima’s snowsuits and outerwear are functional, durable, and warm, with insulation rated for temperatures as low as -20 °C (-5 °F).
While their gear can be on the pricier side, the quality and longevity make it a smart investment. Reima designs its clothing with room to grow, so your child can comfortably wear it for an entire season — or even longer. Thanks to their exceptional durability, Reima pieces can be passed down to younger siblings or resold second-hand with plenty of life left in them. You can often find pre-loved Reima gear in excellent condition, which is a great way to save money while staying eco-conscious.
- Waterproof snowsuit/ overall
- (or waterproof winter jacket + insulated snow pants)
- Waterproof and insulated winter boots
✅ Download our free, printable winter packing lists for Lapland — tailored specifically for babies and toddlers. Perfect for stress-free travel with little ones!
Thermal Accessories
Don’t underestimate the cold on small extremities — ears, fingers, and toes lose heat fast!
- For full face and neck protection, a merino wool balaclava is ideal. It’s warmer than a regular hat and covers more skin — and the best part? It’s much harder for little ones to pull off, making it perfect for toddlers who love to remove their gear.
- Wool or fleece-lined hat (that covers ears)
- Waterproof mittens (layered over thin merino gloves if necessary)
- Multiple pairs of wool socks (bring extras for inevitable snow-related mishaps)
- Neck warmers
Other essentials
- Stroller muff (to keep hands and feet warm)
- Extra mittens and socks — they will get wet or lost
- Baby/toddler skincare: lip balm, nappy cream, and a gentle cold cream or barrier balm for cheeks
- Thermos bottles: warm drinks or porridge on the go are a must
- and of course, the most important things: snacks and entertainment
Diapers and Baby Supplies
You can absolutely bring your own, but here’s a tip: one of the best diapers we’ve ever used is the Finnish brand Moomin Baby. They’re free from harmful chemicals, skin-friendly, carbon-neutral, super soft and incredibly leak-proof — plus, they’re surprisingly affordable in Finland. To save space in your luggage, consider packing only enough for the first few days and then stocking up at a local supermarket.
👉 Important: This only applies if you’re staying in a well-connected or urban area of Lapland (like Rovaniemi or Levi), where supermarkets are easy to access. If you’re heading somewhere more remote or staying at a resort with limited shopping options, it’s safer to bring everything you need from home.
Do You Need a Stroller in Lapland?
A stroller isn’t an absolute must — it really depends on your child and your travel style. We brought our Emmaljunga stroller (a sturdy Swedish brand built for snowy conditions), and we were very happy with the decision. These kinds of all-terrain strollers handle snow and rough paths well, although they are bulkier than lightweight travel models.
That said, if your child doesn’t nap outdoors or if you’re staying in a very remote area where you’ll mostly stay indoors, you may be fine without one.
Why Bring a Stroller?
In Lapland, it’s quite common for babies and toddlers to nap outside — even in winter! A good stroller allows your child to sleep peacefully outdoors in the fresh air, which many parents say leads to deeper and longer naps. With proper winter gear and a foot muff, it’s totally safe and actually recommended in Nordic cultures.
No Stroller? No Problem!
Many accommodations and holiday resorts offer sleds for transporting young children — and you’ll see plenty of local parents pulling their kids around town this way. It’s both fun and practical.
Where to Stay in Lapland with a Toddler (or a Baby)?
You generally have two options — both great, depending on your travel style:
1. Hotel Resorts Outside the Cities
Perfect if you’re looking for peace, nature, and a slower pace. You’ll wake up to snowy forests and can enjoy sled rides or walks right from your doorstep. These resorts usually offer everything you need (restaurants, gift shops and winter activities), but some are quite remote with limited access to supermarkets or pharmacies.
2. Hotels or Rentals in Towns (Rovaniemi, Levi)
Staying in a town is more convenient. Supermarkets, pharmacies, restaurants, and indoor attractions (like museums or play areas) are close by — ideal for families that need structure. The trade-off? Less nature at your doorstep. You will need to drive or take a transfer to reach the forest trails.
My Top Tips for Your Trip to Lapland with a Toddler (or a Baby)?
After experiencing Lapland with both a toddler and a baby, here are my best tips to make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible:
- Dress in layers: Pack 2–3 merino wool base layers and durable, waterproof outerwear to keep your little one warm and dry.
- Plan fewer activities: Limit yourself to one main activity a day. Traveling with toddlers means slowing down, staying flexible, and embracing spontaneous moments instead of rushing through a packed schedule.
- Bring simple entertainment: A few favorite books or toys can be lifesavers during downtime—but keep it minimal to avoid overpacking.
- Embrace the local lifestyle: Try sledding your kids around, let them nap outdoors in the fresh air, and enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings without stress.
Lapland with little ones isn’t about ticking off everything on the list — it’s about soaking in the magic at your own pace.
FAQ: Traveling to Lapland with a Toddler (or a Baby)
1. Can babies go outside in -20°C? Is it safe to take a baby to Lapland?
Yes, if properly dressed. Layering is crucial. Short outdoor sessions with frequent warm-up breaks are perfectly safe. Make sure to watch for signs of cold: red cheeks, fussiness, and cold extremities are signs it’s time to go inside.
2. What about nap times?
In cold weather, many babies sleep well outside in strollers, snugly bundled. Alternatively, plan your outings around their nap schedule.
3. Are Lapland safaris baby-friendly?
Some are — but not all.
🐾 Husky safaris are generally not suitable for babies. The rides are fast-paced and often quite long, which can be too intense (and cold) for little ones. That said, some companies offer shorter husky rides specifically designed for families with young children. It’s always best to check with the provider in advance.
🦌 Reindeer safaris, on the other hand, are a slow and gentle experience — because, well, reindeer aren’t in a hurry! These are much more baby-friendly. If you’re bundled up and ready for the cold, you can definitely bring your baby along in the sled. There are no safety concerns here, just peaceful snowy scenery.
4. Can you see the Northern Lights in Lapland with a toddler?
Yes — but not necessarily on a tour.
Most Northern Lights tours start around 10 PM and go on until midnight or later. Many involve snowmobiles, or standing outdoors in freezing temperatures. Understandably, these tours aren’t suitable for babies or toddlers.
But that doesn’t mean you’ll miss out.
You can still see the Aurora Borealis with your little one — just without the tour. Here’s how:
Stay in a cabin or accommodation far from light pollution
Download a Northern Lights forecast app
Step outside with your baby monitor once conditions are right
If you’re lucky and the sky is clear, you’ll get a magical show from your doorstep.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Lapland with a toddler or a baby isn’t just possible — it’s deeply rewarding. With a little preparation, the right gear, and a flexible mindset, your family can enjoy an unforgettable Arctic adventure. You’ll come home with magical memories, heartwarming stories, and maybe even a belief in Santa Claus rekindled by your child’s wide-eyed wonder.
So bundle up, slow down, and let the magic of Lapland wrap around your family like a warm blanket of snow.
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