The weather is likely to be cold and changeable. Of course we cannot predict the weather on any given week, but temperatures normally vary between -5 and -20 ° C, and we may sometimes have temperatures of more like -35°C. This sounds cold, however, for most of the winter in Finland it is a “dry” cold which tends to feel less cold than “damp” cold (which we have in the UK!).  You do need enough clothes to stay warm and comfortable though!  Please read our blog post for more information on what we recommend you wear whilst cross country skiing!

We provide:

• Cross country skis

• Ski boots

• Ski poles

What to Bring:

Cross country ski kit:

• 20 - 30 litre backpack

• Base layers (a selection - you might want to wear more than one on a cold day)

• Long johns

• Fleece

• A breathable, waterproof/water resistant and windproof shell jacket

• Soft shell type fitted trousers or leggings (windproof, water repellent, breathable)

• Gaiters can be useful (optional)

• A warm packable insulated / down jacket

• A selection of socks of different thicknesses to help you get the best fit in your hire boots (wool is best)

• Sunglasses - ideally polarised (ski googles can be useful if the weather is bad but can fog up when you get hot!)

• Warm hat or balaclava

• Buff (you might want two - one for your neck, one as a headband)

• Ski gloves (2 pairs, ideally, in case one gets wet - normal ski gloves will do - warm mittens are best if you are prone to getting cold)

• Thinner gloves in case it is warm (you will get hot if you’re working hard!)

• Glove liners and/or disposable hand warmers if you suffer from cold hands

• Waterproof trousers (optional)

Off the skis:

• Casual warm evening clothes

• Night wear

• Head torch & batteries

• Toiletries

• Swimwear and neoprene boots/gloves for the ice swimming and sauna if you wish (Finns will go nude!)

• Travel towel (optional; bath towels are provided)

• Sunscreen (high factor) and lip salve

• Any prescription medication 

• Other medication (paracetamol/ibuprofen) is significantly more expensive in Finland so bring some if you need to

• Compeed or moleskin for blisters, just in case!

• Slippers / shoes for the evenings

• Sturdy shoes / hiking boots / snow boots (or you can wear the warm cross country ski boots we provide so no need for investing in special footwear)

• Earplugs and eye mask for sharing rooms in the cabins

Other Stuff:

• Camera 

• Dry bags for inside your day pack to keep stuff dry

• Waterproof case for your phone might be handy

• Snacks

• Medium sized tupperware for carrying food out on the trails

• Thermos so you can take hot drinks out on the trails

• Water bottle (not a camelbak style bladder which will freeze)

• If you’re packing light, you could bring soap flakes/wash to hand wash thermals if required

Occasionally, luggage can be misplaced especially if you are connecting with another flight before landing in Kuusamo. We therefore recommend that you bring some clothes and shoes in your hand luggage so that you can participate in the first day even if your luggage doesn’t arrive with you!