If you’re planning an adventure to the Lofoten Islands this summer and are wondering what to pack, we’ve got you covered. Last summer, we embarked on our own magical Midnight Sun itinerary to Norway, which included a 48 magical hours on Lofoten Islands. Like you, we had no idea what to pack for such a trip and ended up packing for more than we actually needed.
To save you and any extra baggage charges, therefore, here’s a full packing list for the Lofoten Islands in summer.
What to Pack for the Lofoten Islands in Summer: Packing Checklist for 2026
What’s the weather like on the Lofoten Islands in summer?
The weather on the Lofoten Islands in the summer can be very (and I mean very) changeable. Most Norwegians will tell you that you can experience all four seasons in a day on the Lofoten Islands and I can confirm that’s true.
The average temperatures on Lofoten in the peak summer months of June – August can wildly vary from 5 degrees at night to 20 degrees. Although, I think when we were visiting, temperatures got up to 21 degrees during the peak of the day. On average, there’s also around 9 days of rainfall per month during the summer months. As you can see, therefore, packing for a trip to Lofoten Islands is going to require a lot of versatility and layering.
By some miracle, we were incredibly lucky with the weather on the Lofoten Islands during our 48 hours there and experienced wall-to-wall sunshine and unseasonably warm weather, even for the summer months.
I think this took us all by surprise and we couldn’t believe we found ourselves hiking in t-shirts and leggings – just needing a lightweight fleece at night time. As our guides kept reiterating, however, this is not normal for Lofoten and, in fact, during the summer months you’re most likely to experience rain and misty conditions. Sorry about that!
Advantages of visiting the Lofoten Islands in summer instead of winter
There are so many advantages to visiting the Lofoten Islands during the summer months, instead of winter. Admittedly, you’re not going to see the Northern Lights but instead, you’ll be able to bask in 24/7 sunlight enjoying the Midnight Sun. I found the Midnight Sun to be such a unique and beautiful experience, making our days on the islands feel long, laid back and full of colour and adventure.
As it is peak season, everything is open and you’re able to visit on a lower budget, as things like camping and travelling round by bike are possible (obviously in winter, the weather is far too cold to do any of this!) Finally, although you might not get the magic of the snow, you instead get islands brimming with wild flowers and wildlife such as moose and sea eagles. Indeed, being able to go out on a sea eagle safari and enjoy the surrounding fjords was a completely awe-inspiring moment and definitely not possible in the winter months.
What to Pack for the Lofoten Islands in Summer: Complete Checklist for Women
1. A few t-shirts and long sleeved-light weight tops (base layers)
Let’s start off with the easy bits for your packing list for Lofoten Islands in the summer. You’ll need a couple of t-shirts and long-sleeve tops to either wear alone or to layer underneath a jumper. I found myself re-wearing a base layer Sweaty Betty top and a few t-shirts under light weight fleeces most of the time on the islands.
2. A few lightweight jumpers or fleeces
You’ll also need to pack a couple of lightweight jumpers or fleeces. I mostly lived in fleeces rather than jumpers as they added that extra bit of warmth but were easier to get on and off as the temperatures changed.
3. Hiking trousers or hiking leggings
I lived in fleece lined leggings and activewear during my time in Norway. I found that I didn’t need the thermal lined leggings on Lofoten Islands, however, and was just fine in my active leggings for things like hikes or walks of the islands. If leggings aren’t for you, you will want to pack some hiking trousers, and preferably ones that can be turned into shorts if things heat up a lot.
4. Swimsuit
Due to the golf stream, the waters around the Lofoten Islands are (a little) warmer than you might expect. Having a swim in the sea or the many lakes around Lofoten are actively encouraged by Norwegians and a great way to cool down after a sweaty hike. Alternatively, most hotels have swimming pools and saunas, so you will want to pack a swimsuit for some unwinding after a busy day of adventure.
5. Waterproof windbreaker jacket
Although we found the Lofoten Islands surprisingly warm in summer, the evenings are much chillier and when it rains, things cool down considerably. We recommend, therefore, packing one high quality waterproof wind breaker jacket that will keep you warm and dry.
6. Hiking socks
A key staple to your packing list for the Lofoten Islands in summer are several pairs of high quality hiking socks. A trip to Lofoten Islands is an active holiday, where a few pairs of trainers socks aren’t going to cut the mustard. I’m really glad I invested in some quality wool hiking socks before visiting, which kept my feet not only warm but comfortable during our week in Norway.
- Composition: MOSEY KOSY women's hiking socks are crafted from a blend of 70% Wool,23% Polyester,5% Spandex,2% Nylon, ensuring both durability and comfort. Versatile across all seasons
- Package and Size: This set includes 5 pairs of wool hiking socks designed for women. Available in two sizes - M (fits UK women's shoe size 3-7) & L (fits UK women's shoe size 7-11). The value pack boasts fashionable colors that are sure to captivate any woman's taste
- Moisture Management: Engineered with a ventilation mesh feature, these wool hiking socks provide exceptional breathability, swiftly wicking away moisture to keep feet dry and fresh, effectively combating odors. Ideal for hiking, running, outdoor strolls, trekking, or daily wear
- Foot Protection: Enhanced with a stretchy cuff that stays put without sliding down, and arch support that distributes weight evenly across the foot. The cushioned footbed gently absorbs impact with every step, delivering reliable protection for women's feet—great for all-day wear
- Perfect Gift: These winter wool socks blend comfort and durability, making them an excellent gift choice for mothers, girlfriends, or best friends on birthdays, Christmas, Valentine's Day, or any special occasion
Read our guide to the best hiking and walking boots for women
7. Sun hat
When the sun is out on the Lofoten Islands, it’s really out and we were so shocked at how warm it was in July. You’ll definitely want to pack a sun hat – particularly for any outdoor activities such as hiking.
8. Sunglasses
Again, when it’s sunny on Lofoten islands, you’ll need a pair of sunglasses. Especially on the water, where it’s extremely bright. A few of our friends, who hadn’t bothered packing any, really struggled during the days on Lofoten.
9. Hiking boots
It goes without saying that if you’re planning on doing some hikes or active walks across the Lofoten islands then you’ll need a good pair of hiking boots. My BIGGEST tip is to make sure those hiking boots are well worn-in before you travel. Brand new hiking boots can cause endless misery (we’ve learnt the hard way), so go for comfort over stylish new boots.
10. 1 x pair of jeans
Above are all the essentials for a packing list for the Lofoten Islands in summer but here’s a few additional items if you’ve got the space. We found it useful to have a pair of jeans packed for dinners out in the evenings on Lofoten Islands. It was nice to be out of leggings and the jeans were still thick enough to keep us warm as the evenings got colder.
11. 1 x nice top for a meal out
Again, to go with your jeans, you might want to pack a couple of “nicer” tops for evening times. By nice, I literally mean a couple of nicer light weight jumpers that didn’t feel like active wear.
12. 1 x pair of trainers or casual shoes for evening
To save your feet walking about in hiking boots all day, pack a lightweight pair of trainers for evenings on Lofoten Islands, or when you’re not hiking.
13. Lightweight backpack
Finally, a lightweight backpack is an essential to pack for a trip to the Lofoten Islands in summer. I opted for a super cheap one from Mountain Warehouse, which did the job perfectly and was just the right size at just 10L.
- Lightweight Small Backpack: This packable super lightweight travel backpack only weighs 0.6 lbs but has a capacity of 10 litres, allows you to pack some smaller essentials with you. Suitable for light duty-on used. You can carry 1L water bottle, some snacks, and a hat,etc. Holds a lot without being too oversized and bulky
- Foldable Trip Daypack: Packs up super small. The folded size is only 6.7inch x 7inch. You can pack the entire backpack into a small bag like the size of a pencil pouch. A nice small backpack that can be used for daily excursions and easily fits in luggage,carry-ons or suitcases. It's your perfect trip companion across Europe, the USA, Japan, Australia, Ireland, Korea, France, Argentina,etc
- Well Constructed: Everything was easily accessible. The hidden back pocket is a pretty secure place to store wallet to prevent pickpocketing. The vertical zipper pocket at the front allows you to easily retrieve items without taking off your backpack. Reflective strip design increases night security. Two side pockets can hold water bottles with a diameter of 2.4"
- Well Made & Sturdy: 10l packable compact backpack for travel is made from highly rip fabric to provide strengthen and long-lasting performance with minimal weight. Simple backpack for daily use or trips. If you’re looking for a light little hiking pack this is the one
- Widely Used: The ultralight hiking daypack is good for a comfortable overseas plane trip, day city excursion, day hiking, weekend getaway and daily use,etc. It's a gift for men women on xmas, Thanksgiving, Father's Day, Mother's Day, and Valentine's Day, perfect for short hikes, work-home commutes and running errands
Other things to pack for summer on the Lofoten Islands
1. Eye mask (a MUST!)
If you want to keep your sanity visiting the Lofoten Islands in the summer months, you’ll need a heavy weight eye mask. The midnight sun really does live up to its name and the islands are cast in 24/7 sun during May- August. Even though some hotels do supply black out curtains, they’re hit and miss, so you really do need to bring an eye mask if you want to sleep.
Although on the pricier end, we swear by the Manta Sleep Masks that are also weighted, to help encourage your body into a state of relaxation and rest.
- TRUE BLACKOUT SLEEP MASK — Adjustable eye cups mold perfectly to your face to block 100% of light. True blackout unlocks maximum deep sleep in any environment & any position
- ABSOLUTELY NO EYE PRESSURE — Fully adjustable, extra-deep eye cups allow you to blink like you’re not wearing a sleeping mask
- INFINITELY ADJUSTABLE EYE CUPS — Customize your eye cups’ position and angle for a perfect, personalized-for-your-face fit
- SOFT, BREATHABLE AND DURABLE — Made to last with super-soft spongy eye cups, breathable cotton velour strap, snag-free micro hook/micro fleece closures and industrial-grade elastics
- DEEPEST-POSSIBLE SLEEP — Manta Sleep Mask is designed and optimized for deepest-possible sleep in any environment. Perfect for midday nappers, travelers, sensitive sleepers, partners of late-night TV watchers, night shift workers and more. Includes Manta Eye Mask, premium ear plugs and case/wash bag. 100% machine washable
2. Seasickness tablets
If you get seasick but are hoping to explore the Lofoten Islands by boat then we highly recommend bringing your seasickness tablets with you. A number of our group suffer with seasickness and took the tablets before our sea eagle safari. They said they really needed them for that particular activity, so be warned! Luckily, I don’t suffer with seasickness and adored bouncy over the waters, my friends, however, not so much.
3. Earplugs
My life changed when I finally bought myself a pair of the Loop earplugs. I wear these every night, regardless of whether I’m travelling and they are incredible. They were really put to the test, however, when we visited Lofoten as the seabirds appear to never sleep, thanks to the midnight sun. To avoid being driven mad by gulls, therefore, make sure you invest in some earplugs before you head to Lofoten and make sure they’re Loop.
- POWERFUL NOISE REDUCTION – Packing up to 24 dB (SNR) of noise reduction into a flexible silicone earplug, Quiet 2 muffles unwanted noise in comfort and style. Get in your quiet bubble anywhere for improved sleep, deep focus, stress-free travel and beyond. Quiet 2 earplugs qualify as certified hearing protection to keep your ears safe from damaging sounds.
- ULTRA-COMFY FIT – Made from lightweight, flexible silicone, these reusable earplugs offer dreamy comfort day and night, even for side-sleepers. Comes with 4 ear tip sizes (XS/S/M/L) for the perfect fit, even in smaller ears.
- GREAT FOR SLEEP, FOCUS AND MORE – Quiet 2 earplugs offer instant noise reduction and protection for all kinds of situations, including sleep, focus, relaxation, travel, commuting, general noise sensitivity and more. Loop earplugs are easy to clean and built to last.
- EASY TO USE – Quiet 2 earplugs are easy to insert and come with adjustable ear tip sizes for optimal noise reduction and a comfortable fit throughout the day. Just pop them in, twist to secure and enjoy life at your volume. When inserted correctly, Quiet 2 earplugs shouldn't stick out.
- IN THE BOX – 1 set of Loop Quiet 2 earplugs, 4 sets of Quiet 2 ear tips (sizes XS, S, M, L – M comes pre-installed), 1 portable convenient Carry Case.
4. Binoculars
One thing I really wish I had packed for the Lofoten Islands in summer is a pair of binoculars. There is so much wildlife to spot, including sea eagles, and I was cursing myself for not bringing a pair with me. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, I’d recommend bringing a small pair of binoculars with you to really get the most out of your activities on the island.
5. Lip Balm
A small but underrated addition to your packing list for the Lofoten Islands in the summer is a lip balm. The dry cold air, particularly out on the water, really chapped my lips and I actually had to buy an emergency Nivea lip balm while on Lofoten.
6. Foldable Hiking Poles
This is optional but if you’re planning on doing a lot of hikes on Lofoten, particularly without a tour guide, then you might want to consider investing in some foldable hiking poles. The terrain is rocky and steep in places, so poles definitely come in handy.
7. Water bottle
Finally, an obvious one but a reusable water bottle on Lofoten is a must. As you can imagine, the water on Lofoten is some of the most delicious and freshest water I’ve ever tasted, and so drinking it is no problem at all. I am a loyal user of the Chilly brand of water bottle as they are so long lasting, plastic free and keep my water ice cold.
- ULTIMATE DRINKING EXPERIENCE: Smooth drinking collar that follows the curve of your lips for the ultimate drinking experience. Seamless design. Available in many colours and patterns.
- 24 HOURS COLD, 12 HOURS HOT: Our double-walled vacuum insulated design keeps your drinks at the perfect temperature. Cold drinks for up to 24 hours or hot drinks for up to 12 hours.
- BIOCOTE DRINKING SURFACE: Protects against surface staining and eliminates bad odours. For a hygienic drinking experience every time. Not dishwasher safe. We recommend hand washing with warm water and soap to keep your bottle odor-free and drinks fresh.
- FEATURES FOR ON THE MOVE: Soft rubber base for silent put downs. Making it non slip. The carry loop makes it easy to grab and go.
- HIGH GRADE STAINLESS STEEL BOTTLE: Durable and 100% food-safe which keeps your drinks tasting fresh. Sweat-and condensation free water bottle
What to wear hiking on Lofoten Islands in summer
As mentioned above, the weather on Lofoten Islands is extremely changeable so the key to hiking on the island is plenty of layering. In the summer months, it can get warm, as we experiences and you might be just fine in hiking leggings and a t-shirt or long sleeve top.
I would, however, pack a lightweight jumper and a windbreaker or anorak in case the rain sets in. In the summer months, unless the weather really takes a turn, I don’t think a hat or gloves is necessary. I was in a very sweaty state by the time we got to the top of our hike.
Is it easy to get money out on Lofoten Islands?
We had no idea before we visited Norway that it’s actually (mostly) entirely cashless! In fact, I think I only withdrew about £50 of Kroner during my whole week in Norway and that was to pay my friend’s back for meals. If, for whatever reason, you do need access to an ATM on Lofoten Islands, these can be found in the major towns on the islands, including Svolvær (where we stayed). The islands also accept most major credit cards. Just remember it’s Kroner and not Euro.
Save for later: What to Pack for Lofoten Islands in Summer: Checklist (2026)
