It's important that you know exactly what to pack for Stockholm in winter because it gets very, very cold. Although Stockholm locals don't tend to worry about the cold, they also have lived with it their entire lives. If you're a first-time visitor to Stockholm in winter or live in a warmer climate, you may need to take even more precautions to stay warm; it's better to over pack rather than risking getting sick on your trip.

Clothing

Known as "Venice of the North," Stockholm has gorgeous waterways that can make the frigid air feel even cooler. The Stockholm cold can cut like a knife so be prepared!

When making a list of what to pack for Stockholm winter, put warm clothes at the very top of your list. Start by bringing layers so that you can easily shed clothing in warmer restaurants and buildings. Long underwear packs easily and will provide you an added layer of warmth. Wool socks offer great warmth and wick away moisture from your feet. You'll be surprised how cold your hands and feet will get if you don't take good care of them. Also make sure to bring sturdy, warm shoes or boots. You'll most likely trek on ice and snow, and you're going to want your feet to stay extra warm.

For outerwear, pack a warm jacket with a wind-breaking layer, a scarf, a hat, and warm gloves or mittens. If you have poor circulation, bring extra warm gloves and liners. You may even want to pack hand warmers, in case Stockholm gets cooler than you imagined.

Toiletries and Medications

The cold weather will also treat your skin differently. Pack to pamper your skin. Bring good moisturizers to protect your skin and repair winter damage. A daily moisturizer with SPF works well to protect skin from the sun's rays and to provide a barrier from the cold. Be sure to visit your local drug store before visiting Stockholm to get a good recommendation for creams and lotions. The original Nivea lotion works well to protect skin. It is a great option for nights in Stockholm.

While at your drug store, pick up some cold medications. Many common over-the-counter cold and flu medications require a prescription in Sweden. Your immune system may have to work extra hard in the cold. Medications should certainly be on your list for what to pack for Stockholm winter!

Cameras

You'll love the gorgeous views and breathtaking light of winter in Stockholm. Be sure to bring your camera, and because batteries tend to run out quicker in cold weather, pack extra batteries. If you run out of battery power during the day, put the battery close to your skin to warm it up; that should help you suck out the remaining battery life. Also, you'll notice how dark Stockholm gets in the winter. If you're wondering what to pack for photography, remember to bring a fast lens so that you still get amazing shots in low light conditions of Stockholm winter.

Travel Tip: If you lose your gloves or forgot anything, you should be able to find what you're looking for in Stockholm. Be aware, though, that most things cost more in Stockholm. A large store called Stadium has well-priced sport gloves, hats, and scarves. Try to bring all that you need for Stockholm in winter because most other stores have very high prices.