What Should You Pack For An Ice Driving Holiday?

An ice driving experience in Sweden is not about surviving the cold. It’s about staying comfortable enough that the cold never becomes the focus. The cars are set up for frozen lakes. The instructors manage the risk. The itinerary is carefully planned. What remains in a guest’s control is preparation and packing is where that preparation starts.

Pack poorly and the cold becomes a distraction. Pack well and the experience stays exactly where it should be: learning how a car behaves on ice, building confidence at speed and enjoying one of the most distinctive winter adventure travel experiences available. This guide explains what to pack for an Ice Driving Experience in Sweden and, more importantly, why each item matters.

‍

Why Ice Driving Holidays Demand Different Packing

Most Sweden driving holidays take place in Arctic or sub-Arctic regions, often above the Arctic Circle. Temperatures between January and March typically range from -10°C to -25°C, with wind chill making conditions feel colder on open ice. Unlike a ski holiday, this experience involves frequent transitions:

• Time inside a warm vehicle
  
• Standing outdoors for briefing
  
• Walking on snow-covered ice
  
• Evening downtime in warm lodges

Packing has to support all of that without bulk or discomfort. The aim is warmth without stiffness, protection without restriction.

‍

The Foundation: Clothing that Works With The Body

‍

Base layers are the most important item you’ll pack

Base layers decide whether the day feels manageable or draining. High-quality thermal tops and leggings made from merino wool or advanced synthetic fabrics regulate body temperature and move moisture away from the skin. This keeps the body warm even when activity levels change. Cotton should never be worn. Once damp, it holds cold and quickly becomes uncomfortable.

Two full sets are recommended — one for daytime driving, one reserved for evenings or as a dry spare.

‍

Mid-layers create warmth without weight

Mid-layers trap heat while allowing movement. A lightweight fleece or insulated jacket works well during outdoor briefings and between driving sessions. These layers should be easy to remove once seated in the car, where bulky clothing reduces steering feel and pedal control. The goal is flexibility, not thickness.

‍

Outer layers protect against wind and snow

Outerwear is about shielding, not insulation. A windproof, waterproof jacket with a hood protects against Arctic wind on open ice. Ski jackets are often ideal because they’re designed for cold exposure without limiting movement. Insulated snow trousers or salopettes prevent heat loss through the legs while standing outdoors. Jeans or casual trousers are unsuitable — they absorb moisture and lose heat quickly.

‍

Footwear That Supports Long Days Outdoors

‍

Boots matter more than expected

Frozen lakes are smooth and snow compacts quickly underfoot. Proper winter boots with insulation and a grippy sole are essential. Footwear should be rated for sub-zero temperatures and provide ankle support. Thin soles, fashion boots or trainers struggle in these conditions and quickly lead to cold feet — one of the fastest ways to lose focus during the day. Thermal socks made from wool or blended fabrics complete the setup. Packing extra pairs is strongly recommended.

‍

Comfortable footwear for evenings

Most lodges and hotels are warm indoors. Lightweight shoes or trainers make evenings far more comfortable after a day in heavy boots. This small detail improves recovery between driving days.

‍

Cold-weather Accessories that Quietly Do the Work

‍

Gloves for Warmth and Control

Hands are exposed frequently — opening doors, adjusting helmets, standing outdoors. Two pairs work best:

• Insulated gloves for time outside
  
• Thinner gloves with grip for driving

Some experiences provide driving gloves but bringing well-fitting personal pairs ensures comfort and familiarity.

‍

Hats and neck protection

A thermal hat that covers the ears is essential. Heat loss through the head is significant in cold conditions. A neck gaiter or scarf protects exposed skin and prevents cold air entering jackets. This is particularly useful during longer outdoor briefings.

‍

What to wear while driving on ice

Inside the car, less is more. Bulky jackets restrict movement and reduce sensitivity through the steering wheel. Most drivers remove heavy outer layers before driving and rely on base and mid-layers instead. This allows better feedback from the car — an important part of learning how grip builds and fades on ice. Thin, warm layers support focus far better than heavy clothing.

‍

Personal essentials people often overlook

‍

Sunglasses

Snow reflects light strongly, even in winter. Glare can cause eye strain during long sessions on frozen lakes. Sunglasses with good UV protection improve comfort and visibility.

‍

Skincare and lip protection

Cold, dry air quickly affects exposed skin. Lip balm and moisturiser prevent cracking and discomfort, especially after long periods outdoors. Ignoring this often becomes noticeable after the first day.

‍

Hydration

Cold conditions reduce the sensation of thirst but dehydration still affects concentration. A reusable water bottle helps maintain energy levels throughout the day.

‍

Travel Essentials For a Sweden Driving Holiday

‍

Documents and Insurance

An ice driving experience is a specialist activity. Travel insurance should explicitly cover winter adventure travel and driving experiences. Keeping documents, licences and confirmations together in a waterproof folder avoids unnecessary stress.

‍

Hand Luggage Planning

Weather conditions can affect flights in northern regions. Packing spare thermal layers, socks and gloves in hand luggage provides reassurance if checked bags are delayed.

‍

Cameras, Phones and Cold Temperatures

Cold drains batteries quickly. Phones and cameras should be kept in inner pockets where possible. Power banks are useful during long outdoor days. Action cameras are popular on ice driving experiences but spare batteries and cold-rated housings are essential to avoid missed footage.

‍

What Most People Bring But Don’t Need

Specialist racing equipment is rarely required. Vehicles are fully prepared, instructors guide every session and safety equipment is usually provided. Expensive technical gear adds little value. Practical clothing chosen for the environment matters far more.

‍

Packing Well Sets the Tone for the Entire Experience

An ice driving holiday works best when preparation fades into the background. When the right layers are packed, the cold becomes manageable, movement stays natural and attention stays on learning how a car behaves on ice — not on discomfort. That’s what allows the experience to deliver what it promises: confidence behind the wheel, sharper car control and the rare feeling of driving at speed on a frozen lake without distraction.

For those planning an Ice Driving Experience in Sweden and looking for guidance on timings, locations, travel logistics and what to expect on the ground, Core Events can help shape the experience around the details that matter. From first questions to final confirmation, support is available to ensure the focus stays on the drive itself not the planning around it.