Preparation for Northern Lights hunting: equipment and clothing for a comfortable experience

Going aurora hunting can be a magical experience, but to fully enjoy it you need to be well prepared. The cold and dark conditions that often accompany the Northern Lights require you to have the right gear and clothing to keep you warm, comfortable and ready to capture the perfect moment. Here's a guide to what you should consider before heading out into the night.

1. Clothes for the cold: Layer upon layer

Dressing correctly is essential to staying warm during long hours out in the cold. The key to staying warm is to dress in layers, allowing you to adjust to changes in temperature.

• Base layer: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer that breathes and keeps your skin dry. Wool or synthetic materials such as polyester work best to transport moisture away from the body.
• Mid-layer: Add an insulating layer, such as fleece or down, to help trap body heat. This layer acts as your main heat source.
• Outer layer: Finally, you need an outer layer that is wind and waterproof to protect against snow, rain and cold winds. A good shell jacket and trousers with GORE-TEX or similar material is ideal.

2. Keep hands, feet and head warm

The parts of the body that lose the most heat are the hands, feet and head, so it is important to protect these areas properly.

• Beanie: Choose a warm beanie that covers the ears and is made of wool or synthetic material. A hat that fits under a hood is extra good for really cold nights.
• Mittens and Gloves: Insulated mittens or gloves are a must. Gloves retain heat better than gloves, but if you need to use camera equipment, thin inner gloves under the gloves can be a good solution.
• Socks: Invest in a pair of high quality wool socks. Avoid cotton, as it traps moisture and can make your feet cold. Extra socks can be good to have in case the first ones get damp.
• Shoes: Warm, waterproof boots with good insulation and slip resistance are ideal. Make sure they have enough room for thick socks without being too tight, which can impair blood circulation and make feet cold.

3. Northern lights hunting equipment

Having the right equipment can make a big difference in your Northern Lights experience, especially if you plan to photograph the phenomenon.

• Camera and tripod: A camera with manual settings is best for Northern Lights photography. A stable tripod is also important to keep the camera still during long exposure times.
• Wide-angle lens: A wide-angle lens with a large aperture (f/2.8 or lower) will help you capture both the sky and the landscape in a single shot.
• Remote shutter release or timer: To avoid camera shake, use a remote shutter release or set the camera's self-timer.
• Extra batteries: Cold temperatures can drain batteries quickly, so bring extra batteries and keep them warm in your pocket.
• Flashlight or headlamp: A red light headlamp is perfect for reading maps or adjusting the camera without ruining your night vision.

4. Pack for comfort

Besides clothing and camera gear, there are a few other things you can pack to make your Northern Lights hunt more comfortable.

• Seat pads: If you plan to sit and wait for the northern lights, bring an insulating seat pad to keep you warm.
• Thermos with hot drink: A thermos filled with tea, coffee or hot chocolate will help you stay warm during the night.
• Snacks: Energy-rich snacks such as nuts, chocolate or energy bars can be good to have with you to keep your energy up during long hours outdoors.

5. Safety in the mountains

If you hunt the northern lights in mountain areas, such as the Jämtlandsfjällen, it is important to also think about safety.

• Maps and GPS: Make sure you have a map and a GPS device with you, and that you know the area well.
• Mobile phone and power bank: Always carry a charged mobile phone and a power bank to be able to charge it if necessary.
• First aid kit: A small first aid kit can be invaluable in the event of an accident.

---

By being well prepared with the right clothing and equipment, you can maximize your comfort and safety during the Northern Lights hunt. Remember that the northern lights are a natural phenomenon that requires patience, but with the right preparations, you can enjoy the experience no matter how long the wait is. Dress warmly, pack correctly, and venture out into the cold night to witness one of nature's most spectacular spectacles.