Winter’s great adventure
TIPS & EQUIPMENT
For your safety and ours, you need to bring mandatory equipment to join the adventure, whether you choose the Explorer or Expedition group. You may already have some of the equipment and can borrow what you’re missing from a friend. You can also rent equipment from both FriluftsByn and Naturkompaniet.
If you have questions, you can get tips from both us and previous participants in our Facebook participant group. You can also visit your nearest Naturkompaniet store, and they will assist you.
THE PARTICIPANT GROUP >>
MANDATORY EQUIPMENT
– For your safety and ours.
Many overestimate the equipment needed to go winter hiking. What primarily distinguishes winter hiking is that you need an additional insulating layer, a thicker sleeping bag that can handle lower temperatures (or you can use two sleeping bags layered together). It is also wise to have two sleeping pads – one inflatable and one regular – to insulate against the cold ground.
FOR HIKING
Base layers (Top/Pants)
Pants
Insulating sweater/Fleece
Shell jacket
Insulating jacket
Hiking boots
Backpack
Trekking poles (not mandatory)
Snowshoes (loaned snowshoes included)
COOKING
Stove (Can be shared with 2-4 people)
Fuel for stove (gas included)
Matches
Cutlery
Water bottle & Thermos
Snacks/Sausages
Coffee/Tea
Optional energy drink
Meals included, see:
Food & Drinks >>
CAMPING
Tent (Can be shared with 2-4 people)
Snow pegs to secure the tent
Sleeping bag (Or two)
Sleeping pad
Headlamp
Batteries
Toilet paper
Toiletries
Extra base layer shirt
Extra base layer pants
OTHER
Hat
Gloves
Sunglasses
Thin socks
Thicker socks
First aid kit
Trash bag
Shovel (Not mandatory)
RENT EQUIPMENT
If you’re missing something and can’t borrow from someone you know, you can rent a tent, sleeping bag, backpack, and camping stove. Make sure to book in advance, and if you’re renting a tent, ensure you get help setting it up. It’s also a good idea to try setting it up at home beforehand so you feel comfortable pitching it.
RENT TENT, BACKPACK, AND CAMPING STOVE FROM NATURKOMPANIET
You can rent tents and backpacks at all Naturkompaniet stores, and many also rent out camping stoves. Price examples:
Tent: from 500 SEK
Backpack: from 250 SEK
RENT A SLEEPING BAG FROM FRILUFTSBYN
At FriluftsByn, you can rent a really warm and cozy sleeping bag. Email info@friluftsbyn.se
Sleeping bag: 500 SEK
SNOWSHOES INCLUDED
You can rent tents and backpacks at all Naturkompaniet stores, and many also rent out camping stoves. Snowshoes are included in the adventure!
TIPS: Test to pack your backpack
Make sure to test pack your backpack well in advance of the adventure. Also, keep in mind that you will pick up five freeze-dried meals when you check in.
TIPS: The dry base layer
You don’t need many changes of clothes, just one extra – your dry base layer. Keep it well protected, and put it on when you arrive at the campsite or when you’re ready to sleep. Then, switch back to your “hiking base layer” when you head out again the next day.
SOME OF OUR FAVORITES
– If you need to complete your gear, take a look here.
Hopefully, you already have some of what you need to join the adventure, and maybe you can borrow the rest from friends or fellow participants in the group. If you’re missing something, our best tip is to visit a Naturkompaniet store, where they will help you find what fits your needs and interests. Often, the same gear works for winter hiking, cross-country skiing, ice skating, fall hiking, and other outdoor activities.
SHELL JACKET
Should withstand weather and wind while still allowing moisture created by activity to ventilate out.
Keb Jacket Men >>
Keb Jacket Women >>
PANTS
Durable yet flexible and comfortable.
Keb Trousers Men >>
Keb Trousers Women >>
BASE LAYER
Warm yet moisture-wicking from Woolpower.
Turtleneck >>
MID LAYER
A bit thicker, but easy to open for ventilation of body heat.
Full-Zip >>
INSULATION
An insulating jacket that keeps you warm during breaks.
Guides Men >>
Guides Women >>
BACKPACK
In winter, you’ll need a bit more space. A 75-85L pack should suffice.
Kajka 85l >>
SLEEPING BAG
Affordable winter sleeping bag from Marmot.
Wind River Men >>
Ouray Women >>
TIPS FOR A MORE ENJOYABLE EXPERIENCE
– For your safety and ours.
Before we head out, we will hold a basic winter outdoor skills course. Guides and representatives from Naturkompaniet will also be present to help you adjust your backpack, for example. The Explorer group will start by setting up their base camp, and there will be help available both here and at the Expedition group’s campsite. However, it is important that you know how to set up your tent and are familiar with your camp stove. To be even better prepared, you can also watch the videos below.
How should I dress? For real, it’s not that difficult. But it might be a good idea to check out this video. We will also go over the clothing requirements before we head out.
How do I pack my backpack? A lot of it comes down to personal preference. However, there are a few good tips, like those shared in this video.
Sleeping bag. What should you keep in mind before lying down to sleep well?
The tent. It’s not that different, but we’ll have a chat with Naturkompaniet to learn more.
Setting up the tent. Naturkompaniet will be with us during the hike to help out, but come prepared.
ONE ADVENTURE
TWO GROUPS
The High Coast Winter Hike is an adventure suited for both curious beginners and experienced hikers. Choose between the Expedition and Explorer groups. You can find more information about each group by clicking below.
EXPEDITION »
The original three-day adventure where we experience the highlights of this World Heritage site at our own pace. With the right preparation, this will be a memory for life. We set up two different base camps and carry all our gear with us.
EXPLORER »
A wonderful winter adventure for those curious about winter hiking! Over three days, you'll take in stunning views, sleep in tents with the support of experienced guides, and enjoy great camaraderie. We carry lighter packs and hike shorter distances.
EXPEDITION »
The original three-day adventure, where we experience the highlights of this World Heritage site at our own pace. With the right preparation, this becomes a memory for life. We establish two different base camps and carry all our equipment with us.
EXPLORER »
A wonderful winter adventure for those curious about winter hiking! Over three days, you'll take in stunning views, sleep in tents with the support of experienced guides, and enjoy great camaraderie. We carry lighter packs and hike shorter distances.
ARTICLES WINTER HIKE
Want to know more about why both seasoned hikers and curious beginners from around the world are drawn to the High Coast Winter Hike? Check out these articles.
Come by yourself, hike with new friends >>
Over half of the participants usually come on their own. We’ve put together some tips for those coming solo.
One of Swedens most beautiful winter hikes >>
The High Coast has been voted Sweden’s most stunning natural area. We’ll experience its highlights together.
Create a cozy night camp >>
Make your night camp a memorable experience. Here you’ll find the best tips.
Courses to boost your skills >>
During the adventure, you’ll gain tips and knowledge to make winter adventures even more enjoyable experiences.
The relaxed vibe >>
Pre-evening gatherings, cozy campfires, ice dipping, summit cabin hangouts, and after-hike fun. This is going to be an unforgettable adventure.
Preparations >>
Here you’ll find everything you need to know to come prepared for the adventure.