Gear for Travelling North
You should prepare your travel gear before you travel to the North. Despite the fact that there are no difficult routes, the weather and climate will make you regret it if you do not prepare properly.
First of all, because you can camp overnight in the summer, but in the winter you have to stay in a hotel.
See also: Camera Gear for the Lofoten Islands
Summer gear
In the summer, you’ll probably prefer to camp overnight or in a tent. Hiking is very popular in summer.
Although there are fewer and fewer such places, in the Lofoten Islands you can pitch your tent outside specially equipped campsites and it is free of charge. This makes traveling with a tent more preferable.
Norwegian law allows you to camp anywhere, as long as you do not disturb the locals. This is the difference between Norway and other European countries, where traveling with a tent can be a problem. Here – no problem.
Of course, going on a trip with a tent, you will need camping gear. In this article I will give my advice.
The Layering System
The best way to stay warm and comfortable is to wear three layers. A base layer, a middle layer, and a shell layer. It’s a layering system. The weather changes frequently, but you will always be protected.
And you can always take off or put on one of the layers. This is the main principle of hiking.
How does it work?
The base layer removes sweat from the body the middle layer keeps heat and continues to remove moisture from the body the shell layer is waterproof and wind stop.
That way you will always be dressed for the weather.
Base Layer
This is the layer that is closest to the skin. It is an important role in the thermodynamics of your body. The clothing of this layer must by high quality, remove sweat and quickly dries.
Despite the fact that we like to wear clothes made of cotton, in this situation it will not work. The best choice is a synthetic, tight-fitting T-shirt. It will wick away sweat during activity and dry quickly when you stop.
This is a very important aspect. Despite the fact that these clothes can be cold, believe me, you will not catch a cold or get sick.
Mid Layer
This layer will keep you warm. The best choice for the Lofoten Islands would be a fleece jacket. You can also wear synthetic jackets similar to the base layer.
The middle layer is what you would wear for a walk in the park in autumn.
Shell layer
It’s all a bit more complicated than that. The Shell layer must perform two functions. Protect from rain and protect from wind.
Even if it’s sunny, I recommend bringing a windproof jacket. Especially if you’re going to the mountains. The weather can change very quickly, and there is always a strong wind at the top of the mountain.
I advise, do not stint and to get a shell layer of Gore-TEX or similar.
More information about Layering System you can find on the Wikipedia
Hiking boots
Good hiking boots are very important – especially since improper use can lead to injury!
If you have little or no hiking experience, your feet and muscles are probably not prepared for walking on rolling rocks and sharp edges. Sneakers or similar shoes are not suitable for use while hiking.
Therefore, if you are planning to go hiking in the mountains for the first time, choose sturdy and heavy shoes. They will reliably protect you from foot injuries. I have these boots.
On the Lofoten there are often wet sections of the trail, bogs, puddles and wet moss. If your shoes get wet, it is not good for hiking. Waterproof boots are the only thing suitable for hiking in Norway.
I always choose shoes with a Gore-Tex membrane. My feet do not sweat, do not get wet I feel comfortable.
Never skimp on hiking boots!
Be sure to bring another pair of camping shoes. I usually wear these boots the rest of the time when I’m not hiking.
It is very hard and uncomfortable to walk around in heavy hiking boots all the time.
5 tips How to choose hiking boots
- Weight. The heavier the shoe, the faster your feet will get tired.
- Waterproofness. It is absurd to buy to get wet shoes for a hike. Membrane “Gore-Tex” perfectly copes and your feet “breathe”.
- Protection. Steep climbs and descents, many stones make the probability to dislocate the leg. I try not to risk and buy shoes with high support feet.
- Durable outsole. The toes protection is mandatory. The shoe must have a sole of hard rubber. Shoes should not slip.
Camping shoes
Don’t forget the lightweight and comfortable shoes you’ll be wearing the rest of the time. I go in sandals or lightweight sneakers. It’s just very convenient, especially in the morning, to get out of the tent. Easy to put on, easy to take off and very comfortable to walk around.
Trousers
Durable trekking trousers for adventures in the mountains and forest. Made using durable wind- and water-resistant.
Fjallraven is the best choice for me.
Socks
Socks for everyday wear are not suitable. They will wear out quickly, slip off the foot, and most likely your walk will end up with you getting calluses.
You will need socks made especially for hiking. These socks will protect you, and your hike will be comfortable.
Trekking Poles
The acquisition of trekking poles made a revolution in my mind. I never thought that their use made my walk in the mountains so easy.
My back, my legs scream for trekking poles – THANKS! Feel free to use it. It’s really cool when the back and legs are not tired.
You should use only multi-s
The purchase of the trekking poles revolutionized my mind. I never thought that using them would make my hiking in the mountains so much easier.
My back, my legs are screaming for trekking poles – THANK YOU! Feel free to use them. It’s really great when your back and legs don’t get tired.
Only multi-section trekking poles should be used on mountain hikes. You will need different sizes of trekking poles while climbing to and from the summit. The size of the poles should be tailored to you.
Choose lightweight trekking poles.
Hats
I am not prepared to vouch for whether you need a hat or not. But my wife kept her hat on during the two weeks of our trip to Lofoten together.
However, bandana or baseball cap will definitely be helpful.
Gloves
Since I have been a happy owner and partner of a great Norwegian brand, Vallerret.
From the streets to the peaks The Markhof Pro 2.0 is your versatile “take everywhere” functional and stylish photography glove.
With a Pre-curved Glove Design & 100% Merino Wool liner, Thinsulate insulation, and weather-proofed fabrics this makes for a warm and fitted glove with an excellent camera feel.
Sunglasses and Sunscreen
Long stays by the water, in the mountains, wind and almost 24-hour daylight hours, in general, sunglasses and cream will not be superfluous.
I prefer sunglasses with a polarizing effect.
Camping Gear
Tent
The lighter the tent, the better.
The disadvantage is that the lighter the tent, the more expensive it is. If you are not planning to hike in the mountains with a tent, then in the first place is its capacity and comfort. But do not forget that the tent is very difficult to set up in strong winds.
When choosing a tent, keep in mind that you must also fit inside with your gear and backpack. For solo travel, I always use a two-man tent.
The general rule of thumb is 14 to 24 square feet of space for one person and 26 to 35 square feet for two people.
Protect your tent. Be sure to buy a footprint.
I come to Lofoten by car and can afford to have two tents.
One ultra-lightweight one for one or two day hikes. Staying in a small and cramped tent for one night is not such a big problem.
But at base camp or camping, I set up a large 4-person tent with a large vestibule. It’s roomy, and I can cook food in the vestibule if it’s raining.
Let’s take a look at some of the best tents.
MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent
MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person 3-season, 2-person backpacking tent. The best pick for multi-day hiking. Manufacturer’s 3-year limited warranty. One of the best ultra-lightweight tents has held the lead for years.
Product Dimensions: 84 x 50 x 39 inches ; 3.44 pounds
Coleman Tent Coastline 3 Plus
Spacious, four-person, car-camping tent. I use this tent if traveling by car. Of course, this tent is not for hiking.
A huge tent with a huge vestibule. Everything you need for comfortable recreation and cooking in rainy weather.
Backpack
Will the backpack be the only bag you carry your gear in? Duration of the hike?
If a backpack is the only bag you will have to put all your gear in. But it is not convenient for short hikes because of its size and weight.
Day hiking pack
For one-day walks, a backpack 20-30L is suitable.
For men
Osprey Packs Talon 22 Backpack
VOLUME: 22 L
WEIGHT: 1 lb 12.6 oz
Osprey Talon 22 is the perfect day hike pack. This is the best pick.
Multi-day backpack
On Lofoten, there are no pedestrian routes longer than 2-3 days. You can use a backpack 60-85l
Osprey Aether 65 Men’s Backpacking Backpack
Osprey Aether 65 Men’s Backpacking Backpack for thru-hikes and alpine expeditions is a pack that can carry heavy loads for up to a week or more.
Trail Seats
This will be the most useful equipment in your journey. I’m sure.
Sleeping bag
Do not trust the temperature characteristics of sleeping bags. I have three sleeping bags at different temperatures.
My warmest sleeping bag is designed for 0 ºC (32 ºF) comfort and -15 ºC (5 ºF) extreme.
Believe me, I always use it on Lofoten in the summertime. And I was not hot never once.
3 tips how to choose a sleeping bag
- Size. The sleeping bag must be free for movement. But do not be too big. You will be cold to sleep in an overly large sleeping bag.
- Temperature rating. How to choose a sleeping bag and keep warm? Each sleeping bag is designed for a certain temperature. Choose 10 degrees warmer than the coldest temperature during your journey. For example. Minimum night temperatures are 5 ºC (41 ºF). You should buy a sleeping bag with a temperature of “comfort” -5 ºC (23 ºF).
- Down or synthetics? I prefer synthetic materials. The best sleeping bags are of natural down. But down is hygroscopic. If your sleeping bag gets wet, then it will be very difficult to dry it. They have shortcomings. But I’m most worried about keeping the sleeping bag warm if I get on a trip where the rains are every day.
The North Face Cat’s Meow Sleeping Bag
Nylon
LOWER RATING: 22 F
WEIGHT: 3 lbs
Sleeping Pad
There are three types of sleeping pad an air pad, a self-inflating pad and a closed-cell foam pad.
Air pads are manually inflated and they are comfortable but not very durable.
Self-inflating pads made of open-cell foam insulation and air for cushioning. They are comfy and pack small and all that you need do is open the valve and the air fills automatically.
Closed-cell foam pads are the most durable and cheap but they are bulky.
I prefer self-inflating pads because they have lightweight and small.
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite Ultralight Backpacking Air Mattress
Camping Stove
I use a gas canister camping stove only. It’s easy, lightweight and ecological. My gear is clean always and no smell of gasoline. I like camping fire but not to cooking.
The only inconvenience is the inability to take a gas canister. I buy it in the nearest store or gas station.
1-Person camping stoves
Jetboil – This outstanding solution if you get to the solo trip.
Group camping stoves
For 2-3 people will need more dishes and other camping stoves.
MSR WindBurner Stove System
The best backpacking cookware sets
The Lofoten Islands are my main photographic topic. If you want to find out the best points of view on Lofoten Islands and extend your personal knowledge about the taking photos on Lofoten – you should read my book “Lofoten Islands Travel and Photo Guide”.
LOFOTEN ISLANDS: Photo and Travel Guide Yes, I want to read it
a great guide! thanks for sharing.
Thank you a lot.