Planning an Arctic adventure isn’t like prepping for your usual getaway. You unlikely to require flip-flops or pineapple-patterned swimming trunks (except perhaps for the indoor pool or spa). Instead, you’re embarking on a journey to one of Earth’s last true frontiers, a place where glaciers groan like ancient storytellers, polar bears patrol the ice, and the northern lights put on nightly performances. Here are our recommendations for how best to plan for an Arctic adventure you won't soon forget. 

1. Embrace the layers

Forget about dressing to impress—Arctic chic is all about practicality. Temperatures can swing wildly, from a surprisingly mild day to a bone-chilling polar breeze. The secret? Layers, layers, layers.

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer (because even in the Arctic you can still sweat), add a cosy mid-layer like fleece or wool, and top it off with a windproof, waterproof outer layer. Don’t skimp on accessories: insulated gloves, a hat that covers your ears, and a scarf or neck gaiter are non-negotiables. And yes, you’ll need proper boots. While always fashionable, your favourite trainers aren’t likely to cut it out on the ice.

2. Midnight sun or polar night?

When planning your Arctic cruise, consider the season carefully.

• Summer (June to August): This is prime time for wildlife spotting. The midnight sun bathes the landscape in a 24-hour golden glow, and you’ll have the best chance to see polar bears, walruses, and Arctic foxes.
• Late Autumn (September): The skies darken, making it ideal for catching the northern lights. Plus, fewer tourists mean you’ll have the icy wilderness almost to yourself.

Remember, Arctic conditions can be unpredictable, so flexibility is key. Your itinerary might change if a polar bear decides to nap on the trail, or if there's a freak cold snap, whatever the scenario it pays to be prepared.

3. Svalbard vs. the Northwest Passage

The Arctic isn’t a one-size-fits-all destination. Your choice of route will shape your adventure.

• Svalbard: A rugged archipelago halfway between Norway and the North Pole, Svalbard is a wildlife lover’s dream. Think polar bears lounging on ice floes, puffins posing for photos, and whales breaching against a backdrop of glaciers. The region’s remoteness makes it feel like stepping into another world.
• The Northwest Passage: This legendary route connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, threading through the icy maze of Canada’s Arctic Archipelago. It’s a mix of history and raw wilderness, with stops at Inuit communities and tales of doomed explorers who tried (and failed) to conquer the icy waters. It’s a true bucket-list journey for intrepid souls.

4. Pack like a pro (and then pack again)

Packing for the Arctic is an art form. Beyond your standard Arctic wardrobe, here’s a list of just a few of the things you’ll want to remember:

• Binoculars: For spotting wildlife from afar, while some cruise lines will provide these in your cabin, it's not guarantee.
• Camera with a zoom lens: Because (with any luck) that polar bear on the horizon is going to remain far enough away from you that you'll need one.
• Reusable water bottle: Arctic air is dehydrating, and sustainability is key in this frigid desert.
• A journal: There’s something about the Arctic’s stark beauty that inspires introspection. Trust me, you’ll want to jot down your thoughts—or sketches of icebergs, if you’re artistically inclined.

5. Respect the fragile environment

The Arctic may be vast and mighty, but it’s also an incredibly delicate ecosystem. Choose a cruise operator that prioritises sustainability and conservation (hint: Hurtigruten is a great option, and not just because Cruise Collective members get a 5% discount on their eco-friendly Arctic expeditions). Follow your guides’ instructions, stick to designated paths, and don’t leave anything behind—except (as the old adage goes) footprints in the snow.

6. Expect the unexpected

An Arctic cruise isn’t about sticking to a strict schedule; it’s about embracing the wonder of the moment. One day, you might wake up to find your ship surrounded by icebergs, their blue hues glowing in the early morning light. The next, you could be trekking across a frozen tundra under a sky painted with the aurora borealis.

Wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed (polar bears don’t do appointments), but when they happen, they’re unforgettable. Pro tip: always have your camera and binoculars handy—you never know when a walrus might pop up beside your balcony to pose for a candid photoshoot.

7. Enjoy the journey

The Arctic isn’t just a destination; it’s a feeling, a sense of awe that stays with you long after the frost has left your cheeks. Whether you’re cruising through the icy waters of Svalbard or navigating the storied Northwest Passage, take time to soak it all in. The crisp air, the endless horizons, the quiet—it's a reminder of just how incredible our planet is.

Ready to Book?

An Arctic adventure might be the ultimate escape, but it’s also a return to something primal—a connection with the wild, untamed beauty of the Earth. And thanks to Cruise Collective, you can explore this frozen wonderland for less. Members enjoy exclusive discounts on Arctic cruises, including 5% off Hurtigruten’s eco-friendly expeditions.