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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Greenland

Layering for Comfort

A three-layer system gives optimal insulation and protection. Always avoid cotton, as it absorbs moisture and loses insulation when wet.

Layer Types

Winter Specifics Nov-Apr

Prepare for extreme cold with heavy-duty insulated outerwear and multiple warm layers underneath.

Winter Clothing Essentials

Footwear Recommendations

Winter Footwear

Insulated, Waterproof winter boots with excellent grip, rated for well below freezing temperatures.

Summer Footwear

Sturdy, Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support for uneven terrain and potentially muddy conditions.

General Use

Comfortable walking shoes for use in town or indoors. These are not for outdoor excursions.

Always wear sturdy footwear with good grip.

Essential Documents

Required Paperwork

Keep all your important documents organized and accessible. Carry both physical and digital copies.

  • Valid Passport: Valid for 3+ months beyond departure, issued within 10 years.
  • Visa Documentation: Printouts of any required Greenland visa endorsements.
  • Vaccination Records: Copy of immunization records and relevant medical history.
  • Medical History: Summary of conditions, allergies, current medications.
  • Flight Tickets: Inbound and outbound confirmations (international & domestic).
  • Accommodation Bookings: Confirmations for all lodging.
  • Tour Confirmations: Printouts or digital copies of pre-booked excursions.
  • Emergency Contacts: Family, embassy, local services (112).

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Greenland uses 230V electricity at 50Hz, with Type C and Type F plugs.

Essential Items

Camera & Digital Tools

For capturing Ilulissat's unique beauty, suitable camera gear is important.

Photography & Apps

  • Camera: For low light/Northern Lights, a DSLR or Mirrorless camera with a fast lens (f/2.8 or wider). A Sturdy tripod is essential.
  • Cold Weather Care: Bring spare batteries; keep them warm. A padded Camera bag shields equipment.
  • Recommended Apps: Offline maps (Maps.me, Google Maps), weather app, Aurora Forecast, Currency converter.

Data & Security

Backup Solutions

Back up photos and documents regularly to cloud storage or an External hard drive. This protects your memories and data.

Security Items

Consider a Small padlock for luggage. An RFID-blocking wallet (Travelambo Wallet) helps protect cards.

Reusable Items

A Reusable water bottle, Shopping bag (Baggu Standard), and Utensils save money and reduce waste.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid Kit & Medications

Pack a personalized health and wellness kit with destination-specific items.

Kit Contents

Cold & Sun Protection

Protect yourself from the Arctic sun and cold, especially during outdoor activities.

Climate-Specific Needs

Motion Sickness & Water

Motion Sickness

  • Boat tours on Disko Bay can be choppy.
  • Motion sickness tablets are useful; take them before the tour.
  • Altitude sickness is not a concern; Ilulissat is at sea level.

Water & Hygiene

  • Tap water in Ilulissat is safe to drink; no purification needed for tap water.
  • For remote hiking from natural sources, a Water filter bottle or Purification tablets could be useful.
  • Bring preferred personal hygiene essentials, as local selection may be limited or expensive.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

Wear layered clothing. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are important.

  • Trekking poles for stability.
  • A Small backpack for day hikes.
  • Waterproof outer layers for unexpected weather.
  • Comfortable, broken-in hiking boots.

Boat Tours & Kayaking

Bring extra warm layers due to wind chill on water. A waterproof outer layer protects from spray.

  • Gloves and a warm hat.
  • A Waterproof Dry Bag for electronics.
  • Binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Winter Activities

For dog sledding or snowmobiling, tour operators often provide warm outer suits. Personal layers are still important.

  • Multiple warm base and mid-layers.
  • Thick wool socks.
  • A warm hat.
  • Thin gloves (under provided outer gloves).

Rent vs. Bring Gear

Rent

  • Heavy outer winter gear (parkas, snow pants, specialized winter boots).
  • Often available from tour operators or local shops in Ilulissat.
  • A practical option for short trips.
  • Saves you from buying expensive gear you might not use again.

Bring

  • Personal base layers, mid-layers (fleece, wool sweaters), hats, and gloves.
  • This guarantees a comfortable fit and personal hygiene.
  • Your own comfortable, broken-in hiking boots.
  • Specialized items like Warm, waterproof gloves or Binoculars.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items add comfort and address common needs while traveling in Ilulissat.

Travel Companions

Region-Specific Essentials

Items unique to Ilulissat, some of which may be difficult or expensive to find locally.

Arctic Specifics

  • Headlamp or Small flashlight: Essential for winter months with limited daylight.
  • Small thermos: Keeps hot drinks warm during cold excursions.
  • Specialized outdoor gear: High-quality insulated clothing and technical equipment are difficult to find locally. Purchase before arrival.
  • Specific dietary items: If you have particular dietary needs, bring some from home, as options may be very limited and costly.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Refill from safe tap water.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Reduce plastic waste.

Reusable Utensils

For self-catering or street food.

Rechargeable Batteries

For electronics and camera.

Photography & Wildlife Viewing

Camera Accessories

  • Extra camera batteries, kept warm.
  • Protective, padded camera bag.
  • Lens cloths for condensation.

Lens Recommendations

Packing Pro Tips

Greenland has no specific cultural dress code or modesty requirements. Dress for practicality and comfort, keeping the weather in mind. Locals dress warmly and functionally. Your main consideration is protection from the elements.

Carry your immunization records and a brief summary of any relevant medical history or conditions, especially if you have chronic illnesses or allergies. Include a list of your current medications. This helps avoid issues with customs.