The Best Tips from the Newcomer Guides
Whether you’re planning to visit us or settle here, these tips are perfect for anyone spending time in the inland region of Northern Sweden, between the coast and the mountains. Some tips apply year-round, while others are more seasonal.
Summer—How to Survive (and Love) the Midnight Sun
1. Taking a bath in the middle of the night—it's completely normal
Summer nights are bright and magical. Here, people go for a midnight swim as if it were the most natural thing in the world. Give it a try yourself—it’s practically a must.
2. Join the community over coffee and pastries
Fika is a way of life up north. Offer something homemade from your home country or buy something local. There’s no wrong way to do it—except to say no. Practice having fika; it’s almost a sport here.
3. Mosquitoes are small, but they mean business
Termacell, mosquito repellent, and a little humility. With the right gear, you can enjoy long evenings outdoors without getting eaten alive.
4. Get lost—in a good way
Take a walk and discover cafés that seem to have been frozen in time in the ’70s, small shops selling everything from fishing hooks to crocheted pot holders, and natural scenery that can only be described with superlatives.
5. Say hello to people—everyone
It's perfectly normal to say "hello" to strangers. Do it. You'll win the hearts of the locals.
6. Learn about the right of public access
You can go almost anywhere you want—as long as you don't damage or disturb anything. It's a superpower if you love nature, picking berries, and fresh air.
7. Make new friends through community organizations
Clubs for everything: judo, fishing, bingo, local history, sports. Go there—people will be happy to see you.
8. Mosquito season = mosquito repellent + picnic basket
When the strawberries ripen in the garden, it’s time to head out to the marshes. Pick goldenberries, enjoy nature, and bring some coffee. That’s what the pros do.
Winter—The Art of Staying Comfortable When the Thermometer Drops
1. Layer upon layer—and yet another layer
The rule here is: wool closest to the body, sturdy clothes on the outside, and preferably a hat as big as a small house. There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing (and that’s actually true here).
2. Reflective gear is just as important as the jacket
It's dark. Really dark. Reflective materials save lives—even on your dog, stroller, and backpack.
3. Learn to love your engine block heater
Set a timer for 1–1.5 hours when it's really cold. The car will start, you'll save electricity, and you won't have to say silly things about your car in the parking lot.
4. Use studded tires
Friction tires? No. Here, you drive on studded tires. Period.
5. The car's survival kit (which everyone here has)
Put it in the car and let it sit there all winter:
- warm blankets and extra clothes
- matches and something to eat
- high-visibility vest
- crampons or studded shoes
- tow rope, jumper cables, and a shovel
This isn't an exaggeration—it's just common sense up north.
6. Snowplows Are Heroes
Don't worry: the roads are plowed. Always. Whether you can see your hand in front of you or not.
7. Yes, you can move in the winter
The locals do it every year. Put on your long johns and go for it.
8. Try a kick!
It’s not just a charming old vehicle—it’s actually the smartest way to get around on icy roads.
9. Discover Snow Adventures
Snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, slalom, dog sledding, kick sledding. Pick your favorite, and winter will be fantastic (for real!).
10. Early Spring—My Secret Favorite Season
Sun, sub-zero temperatures, glistening snow. Pack a reindeer-hide blanket, coffee, and an ice fishing rod. Warning: you’ll get hooked.
11. Go out at night and look for the Northern Lights
You can't always see it through the window—go outside, look up, and enjoy the view.
Tips for All Year Round
1. Don't be afraid to ask
Which snowmobile trail is the best? Who sells firewood? Why is everyone at the market at 9:00 a.m.? Just ask! People here love to help.
2. Meet people—and get involved
Village association, cultural association, sports club. This is where you get to know people, hear the latest gossip, make new friends, and become part of the community.
3. Learn about reindeer
They tend to be on the decline around Halloween and on the rise around Easter (more or less). Keep your eyes open—there are lots of them, they’re charming, and sometimes they’re right in the middle of the road.
4. And you… don't forget the entryway
Get a feel for the atmosphere; don’t rush in—let people “invite you in” step by step. A small cultural nuance that makes a big difference.
