Your Month-by-Month Guide to Packing for Stockholm
Planning a trip to Stockholm? The Swedish capital’s dramatic seasons mean what you pack in January looks nothing like what you’ll need in July. This updated guide breaks down the essential items for each month of the year using real average temperatures and daylight hours.
January: Arctic Elegance
Temperature: –4 °C to 1 °C.
Must-haves: A heavy wool coat, merino base layers, insulated boots, warm hat, gloves and scarf are essential. Days are very short; sunrise is around 8:20 a.m. and sunset near 3:35 p.m. by mid-month.
February: Peak Winter
Temperature: –5 °C to 1 °C.
Must-haves: February is Stockholm’s coldest month. A puffer or insulated parka works well, and sunglasses or ski goggles help with snow glare. Daylight extends from about 7:10 a.m. to 4:55 p.m. by late February.
March: Spring Teaser
Temperature: –3 °C to 5 °C.
Must-haves: Transitional layers are key. Pack a medium-weight coat, sweaters, and a waterproof jacket. Weather is unpredictable—snow and sunshine are both possible. Waterproof boots remain important.
April: Awakening
Temperature: 1 °C to 11 °C.
Must-haves: Light jackets, cardigans, jeans and comfortable walking shoes. April brings longer days and blooming flowers, but it can still snow late in the month. A trench or waterproof coat is perfect.
May: Blossom Season
Temperature: 6 °C to 16 °C.
Must-haves: Light sweaters, long-sleeve shirts and a spring jacket. Peak cherry blossoms in Stockholm are typically late March to late April, so by May the focus is on warm days and cool evenings. Sunglasses and a light scarf are useful.
June: Midnight Sun Magic
Temperature: 10 °C to 21 °C.
Must-haves: T-shirts, light pants and a light jacket for evenings. Around the summer solstice the sun rises ~3:31 a.m. and sets ~10:08 p.m., creating white nights (not 24-hour daylight). Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are essential.
July: Peak Summer
Temperature: 13 °C to 23 °C.
Must-haves: Summer dresses, shorts, sandals and swimwear for island-hopping. July is usually the warmest month, but bring a light cardigan for cool evenings. A reusable water bottle and sunhat are practical.
August: Late Summer Glow
Temperature: 12 °C to 22 °C.
Must-haves: Similar to July but add a light jacket. August evenings are cooler. Pack versatile pieces that work for both warm days and cool nights; a denim jacket is ideal.
September: Golden Autumn
Temperature: 8 °C to 17 °C.
Must-haves: Jeans, sweaters, a medium-weight jacket and closed-toe shoes. Autumn is cool and can be rainy, so layer with scarves and bring a waterproof jacket.
October: Cozy Season
Temperature: 3 °C to 11 °C.
Must-haves: Warm coat, boots, sweaters and a beanie. Days shorten quickly and temperatures drop. A wool coat and waterproof boots are essential.
November: Early Winter
Temperature: 0 °C to 6 °C.
Must-haves: Heavy coat, warm layers, waterproof boots, gloves and scarf. Sunset shifts from about 3:54 p.m. at the start of the month to around 3:12 p.m. by mid-November. Thermal underwear becomes necessary.
December: Winter Wonderland
Temperature: –3 °C to 3 °C.
Must-haves: Full winter gear—heavy coat, thermal layers, insulated boots and warm accessories. December is magical with Christmas markets, but it’s cold and dark: around the solstice the sun sets near 2:50 p.m.
Pro Packing Tips for Stockholm Year-Round
- Layering is key: Functional layering adapts to changeable weather.
- Invest in quality outerwear: Waterproof shells + warm mid-layers make all the difference.
- Waterproof everything: Rain can occur any month, so waterproof shoes and jackets help.
- Comfortable shoes: Stockholm is a walking city; pick grips that handle wet cobblestones.
- Pack a reusable bag: Plastic bags cost extra; a tote is practical and eco-friendly.
No matter when you visit, layering quality, functional pieces will keep you comfortable and stylish. Be ready for quick weather changes while enjoying Stockholm’s seasonal charm.