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What should I wear to hunt the northern lights in the Arctic?

Russia · Updated 2026-10 · From MeTravel's own trips

Murmansk winters are usually −10 to −20°C, sometimes colder; aurora hunting means standing outside for hours at night, and the sea wind at Teriberka feels much colder.

  • Three layers: a thermal base layer (merino or thermal wear, not cotton); a fleece or thick wool mid-layer; a heavy windproof down jacket plus ski or windproof trousers.
  • Head and face: a beanie that covers your ears and a neck gaiter.
  • Hands: thin liner gloves (for using your phone) under thick gloves or mittens.
  • Feet: thick wool socks (bring a spare pair) and grippy, high-cut snow boots.
  • Also bring: heat packs, a flask of something warm and a power bank (batteries drain fast in the cold).
  • Many aurora and husky tours lend or rent thermal suits; ask when booking.

Gear bought in a warm country may not be warm enough for the Arctic; you can top up in Moscow or rent in Murmansk.

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