A successful northern lights experience requires careful planning and an understanding of the environment. Here are some essential travel tips to help you maximize your chances of seeing this magical light show and ensure you have an unforgettable adventure.
1. Avoid the Summer Months
While the Arctic is a popular summer destination due to its stunning landscapes and the midnight sun, it’s not the time to visit if your goal is to see the northern lights. The summer months, especially from late May through mid-August, experience nearly 24 hours of daylight in many Arctic regions, making it impossible for the skies to darken enough for auroral displays. The northern lights require darkness to be visible, so plan your trip between late August and early April, when night returns to the far north.
2. Time Your Visit Around the Moon Phases
The phase of the moon plays a significant role in your aurora viewing experience. A full moon can wash out the sky, diminishing the brightness of weaker auroras and reducing the visibility of stars. To improve your chances of seeing both faint and strong auroras, aim to visit during a new moon or when the moon is only in a crescent phase. While strong auroras can still shine through moonlight, having a darker sky will enhance your ability to see the subtler displays and make for more vivid photographs.
3. Choose Your Accommodation Wisely
When planning your trip, keep in mind that staying in a remote, low-light area will improve your chances of seeing the aurora. Light pollution from cities can drown out the northern lights, so consider accommodations in smaller towns, rural areas, or even wilderness camps. Hostels, Airbnb rentals, and cabins are often located in more remote regions than standard hotels, which tend to be in larger towns or cities. If you’re adventurous and visiting during early fall or late winter, camping is another great way to immerse yourself in nature, offering uninterrupted views of the night sky.
4. Pack for the Arctic: Stay Warm and Comfortable
In northern regions, winter temperatures can be extreme, especially at night when aurora watching is best. Dressing appropriately is crucial to staying comfortable during your wait for the lights to appear. Be sure to pack multiple layers, including thermal underwear, insulated jackets, gloves, woolen hats, and thick socks. Waterproof outerwear and sturdy boots will also help keep you dry and warm in snowy conditions. Since you may be spending long periods outdoors, bringing a thermos with a hot drink can be a lifesaver during those chilly aurora stakeouts.
5. Plan for Other Activities
Even in the best locations, the aurora is never guaranteed, and weather conditions can sometimes prevent the lights from appearing. To ensure your trip is still fulfilling, plan other activities that showcase the beauty of the Arctic or sub-Arctic regions. Consider taking part in dog sledding, ice fishing, visiting hot springs, or exploring local culture and cuisine. If you’re traveling to Scandinavia, Canada, or Alaska, winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing are also great ways to experience the wilderness while waiting for the skies to clear.
6. Bring the Right Camera Equipment
The aurora is not only an incredible sight but also a dream subject for photographers. If you want to capture your aurora experience, make sure to bring a camera capable of long exposure photography. A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings is ideal. Additionally, pack a sturdy tripod to stabilize your camera during long exposure shots. Before your trip, practice photographing in low-light conditions so you’re prepared to adjust your camera settings (such as ISO, aperture, and shutter speed) when the northern lights appear. Remember, the lights move quickly, and being ready is key to getting that perfect shot.
7. Download Aurora Forecasting Apps
Tracking the aurora is easier than ever with modern technology. Download an aurora forecast app or bookmark websites that provide real-time updates on solar activity and weather conditions. These tools can help you predict when the northern lights are most likely to appear based on geomagnetic activity, which is driven by solar wind interacting with the Earth’s atmosphere. By keeping an eye on the forecast, you can better plan your nights and maximize your chances of seeing the aurora.
8. Stay Patient and Flexible
Chasing the northern lights requires a bit of luck, patience, and flexibility. It’s essential to give yourself several nights of aurora watching to increase your odds of success. The lights may appear for just a few minutes, or they could put on a show that lasts for hours. Either way, patience is key—sometimes the most stunning displays happen when least expected. If you’re willing to wait and adjust your plans based on changing weather conditions, you’re more likely to catch an unforgettable aurora display.
9. Embrace the Entire Experience
While seeing the northern lights is often the highlight of a trip to the Arctic, don’t forget to appreciate the journey as a whole. The crisp, clear night skies, the peacefulness of the winter wilderness, and the chance to connect with nature in one of the most remote parts of the world all contribute to the magic of aurora hunting. Even if the lights don’t make an appearance every night, the beauty of the Arctic landscape and its cultural experiences will make your trip worthwhile.