It’s that time of year again. The “days” are dark and shorter, the coat is thicker, and we’ve already had our first snowfall. Living here for over 24 years, I’ve learned a lot about how to make it through the long, dark winters.
So, if you’re new to Sweden or just need some survival tips, here’s my quick guide to to surviving the Swedish winter.
1. Use a Sun Lamp for 1 – 2 Hours a Day
I purchased a Phillips personal sunlight lamps to keep beside my desk to trick my brain into thinking it’s getting enough light during the Swedish winters. It emits a strange blue light, and I honestly don’t understand how it works or IF it works, but I figure it can’t hurt.
If you don’t have access to a personal sunlight lamp, you can check your workplace for special light therapy rooms. Or visit places in your town like Centralbadets Solterapi in Stockholm. A quick Google search for “light therapy” plus the name of your city will show you plenty of options.
2. Take Vitamin D Every Morning
Vitamin D supplements are a must in Sweden’s winter. From mid-October to mid-April in Sweden, the sun’s angle is such that the UV radiation needed for vitamin D production just isn’t enough. Try to make it a routine to take a Vitamin D pill every morning.
This time of year, you’ll see a lot of sales at the grocery store of Vitamin D. Stock up!
3. Have Seasonal Treats to Look Forward To
One of the best ways to get through the dark Swedish winters is to indulge in seasonal treats and embrace the cozy comforts of Swedish winter food. Treat yourself with the special holiday pastries of the season, such as lussebullar and glögg. And don’t forget about the semla, a magical dessert pastry that appears some time after the New Year.
Now, I wouldn’t recommend a daily intake of these, but once or twice a week is the perfect way to brighten up those long, cold days. And if you enjoy getting cozy with hot drinks, hot chocolate, lattes, and tea are essential for lifting your mood.
4. Escape to Sweaty Climates with Books and Movies
There’s nothing like the heat of the desert to make you appreciate Sweden’s wintery, crisp air. That’s why books and movies set in hot climates provide a great mental escape.
For movies, I’d suggest Lawrence of Arabia, Mad Max or Dune. As far as books go, the “Dune” series works again (but personally, I’d stop after book 3) or this great list of 9 Books that Help You Escape the Winter Blues. Every story is set in a very hot and sweaty environment.
5. Book a Trip to a Place Where the Sun Still Shines
This is my go-to every winter. Booking a winter vacation is one of the best ways to recharge. Southern Europe is a fantastic escape with destinations like Italy, Spain, Greece, and Southern France. These places have the best chance of offering warmth, sunshine, and affordable prices during the winter months, plus they aren’t too long of a flight from Sweden. You can find some good deals with Norwegian, SAS or other airlines with last minute sales for the winter.
Traveling in January is particularly budget-friendly and the best time to get your sunshine infusion right in the middle of winter to keep you going.
Do you have any favorite tips for surviving the winter in Sweden? Share your ideas in the comments below!
Originally published 2013, updated 2024.
Agree! =)
This made me laugh. 🙂