A trip to Lapland can be a dream family getaway, especially with the chance to visit Santa Claus himself, experience snow-covered forests and enjoy unique winter activities. But does this magical destination always have to come with a high price tag? Absolutely not! With a few strategic choices, you can make a memorable Lapland holiday affordable. I've previous shared how to visit Lapland on a budget as a family of five and I wanted to share this complete guide on how to experience Lapland’s winter wonderland on a budget, for all who want to experience this magical destination.
1. Choose Your Travel Time Wisely
Best Time for Budget-Friendly Travel to Lapland:
Visiting during peak Christmas season can lead to sky-high costs, which can be out of reach for a lot of people. Instead, consider planning your trip for late February to early April or even in November, just before the Christmas rush. My family and I visited in March and it was an amazing time to visit and so much cheaper, but just as magical as the Christmas season. During these times:
Costs are lower: Prices for flights, accommodation and attractions drop considerably outside peak travel dates.
Crowds are smaller: Avoiding peak season means shorter lines and more intimate experiences.
Weather is milder: Late winter still offers plenty of snow with milder temperatures, making it ideal for families with young children.
2. Book Flights Strategically
Finding Affordable Flights to Lapland
Flights are a major part of any Lapland budget, but planning ahead can help. Here’s how:
Monitor sales: Airlines like Ryanair offer flash sales or last-minute deals. If you’re open to booking close to your departure, you can snag flights at a fraction of the usual cost.
Avoid the weekend: Midweek flights are generally cheaper and have better availability.
Travel light: Consider packing only what’s necessary to avoid additional luggage fees. Stick to warm layers that can be worn multiple times and focus on packing key snow essentials.
3. Stay Close to the Action
Where to Find Budget-Friendly Accommodation in Lapland
While Lapland has its share of luxury hotels and high-end lodges, there are many budget-friendly places to stay, especially if you book early or travel off-season:
Santa Claus Village (Rovaniemi): This iconic spot offers budget-friendly cabin options with amenities like saunas and kitchenettes. Staying here allows you to walk to popular attractions, eliminating the need for a rental car. This is where my family and I stayed on our trip to Lapland and it was ideal.
Airbnb and Holiday Rentals: Airbnb options and holiday homes in nearby villages are affordable choices, especially for larger families or groups. Some places even provide sleds and winter gear, saving on rental costs.
Breakfast included: Choose accommodations that offer breakfast to save on meal expenses. Many Lapland accommodations offer hearty breakfasts that fuel you up for a day of activities.
4. Pack Smart and Save on Winter Gear
Affordable Packing Tips for Lapland
Winter clothing can be expensive, but with some planning, you won’t need to overspend on gear:
Layer up: Basic winter layers, like thermal tops and fleece sweaters, can be inexpensive and easily found at discount stores or thrift shops.
Check local sales: Shops like Aldi and Lidl often stock affordable winter essentials in the months leading up to winter.
Rent or borrow: If you don’t want to invest in snow gear, look into rental options or borrow items from friends. Some accommodations even offer rentals for outerwear and snow boots.
5. Plan Free and Low-Cost Activities
Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Lapland
Lapland offers plenty of magical, low-cost experiences for all ages. However, if there are activities you really do want to experience - for us it was the Reindeer sleigh ride, make sure to factor them in to your overall budget, as they can be quite expensive. Here are some more affordable activities to consider:
Meet Santa Claus: You can meet Santa Claus for free in Santa Claus Village, with optional photo packages starting at around €35.
Enjoy Sledding and Snow Play: Snow hills, sledding areas, and snowy trails are often free to access and offer endless fun for kids and adults alike. My boys would have played all day in the snow on their sleds if they could, a great free fun-filled activity.
Visit a Reindeer or Husky Farm: Many animal farms offer budget-friendly entry fees, with options to take short sleigh rides at a fraction of the cost of other tours. Elf's Farmyard in Santa Claus Holiday village is a magical and affordable place to visit, we spent hours here!
Explore Nature: Lapland is full of scenic trails and open spaces where you can snowshoe, build snowmen, or simply enjoy the winter scenery for free.
6. Eat on a Budget: Self-Cater When Possible
Saving on Food in Lapland
Food can add up quickly, especially with limited options around popular tourist areas. Here’s how to save:
Pack snacks: Bring along non-perishable snacks or quick meals like granola bars, instant soups, and noodles to keep everyone fuelled during busy days.
Choose accommodations with kitchenettes: Cooking some of your own meals can drastically reduce dining expenses. Grocery stores in Lapland are well-stocked with essentials, so you can easily prepare your own meals.
Check out local eateries: For meals out, look for local eateries or food kiosks where locals dine. Many budget-friendly places offer hearty Finnish fare at affordable prices.
7. Be Selective with Paid Attractions
Budgeting for Must-Do Experiences
While you might want to experience everything, it’s wise to choose one or two paid activities and balance them with free options. Popular paid activities include:
Reindeer Sleigh Rides: Prices vary, so look for shorter or group rides to save money.
Husky Sledding: This can be a splurge, but some farms offer short “meet and greet” experiences with huskies, allowing you to enjoy time with the dogs without the high cost of a sled ride.
Ice Fishing and Snowshoeing: These experiences are often available through local guides at lower rates than the more commercial activities and offer a unique way to experience Lapland’s nature.
8. Get Around Without a Rental Car
Budget Transport Tips in Lapland
Transportation costs can be reduced by choosing accommodations close to key attractions:
Use public transit: Many towns, like Rovaniemi, offer bus routes to major tourist spots. We found that getting a taxi was actually cheaper for us as a family of five rather than catching the bus.
Walk when possible: Choose accommodations that are near the sites you want to visit, especially in Santa Claus Village, where most attractions are within walking distance.
Book shuttles: Some hotels offer airport shuttles or group transportation services, which can be cheaper than car rentals.
9. Capture Memories for Free
Affordable Souvenirs and Photos
While it may be tempting to purchase professional photos and expensive souvenirs (a picture with Santa Claus for example can be anything between €30 to €50), there are budget-friendly ways to take home memories:
Bring your own camera: Capture your family’s special moments throughout the trip. Lapland’s snowy landscapes are perfect for DIY photo shoots!
10. Plan Ahead for Better Deals
Tips for Saving on Your Lapland Holiday
Booking early is key to scoring deals on accommodations and flights. For our trip to Lapland, I booked our flights and accommodation the in October. Also:
Look for deals and package discounts: Some travel sites offer special deals for off-season visits or multi-day stays.
Monitor local events: Sometimes, seasonal events offer free or discounted entry to attractions and can add a festive element to your trip.
With these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy a magical Lapland trip without overspending. From timing your visit to packing smart and exploring free attractions, it’s possible to have an unforgettable holiday without a luxury price tag. With a little planning, you’ll create a memorable winter escape that’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travellers alike – all while sticking to your budget.
