Longyearbyen’s location in the High Arctic at 78º N requires proper gear.

The high latitude results in a generally colder and more severe climate than on the mainland of Norway, with an average temperature ranging from -14° C to +6° C. UNIS courses are to a great extent based on field work and excursions. Thus, proper clothing is essential.

Not an unusual sight in the wintertime. (Photo: Magnus Andersen/UNIS).

Clothing
In the summer a hiking/mountain outfit will do, while in the winter, when occupied with outdoor assignments, you should wear warm and wind-proof clothing (for example a down anorak/coat and warm,windproof trousers) and woollen underwear.

It is important that the winter clothing is easy to take off and on, because you have to change frequently between indoor and outdoor activities.

A good rule of thumb is to remember the 3 W's: Wool, Windproof, Waterproof.

Regarding footwear, you can use ordinary walking shoes (city shoes) in Longyearbyen during the summer. In winter time, or if you are planning to hike in the country, it is important that you wear warm, heavy boots/mountain boots.

Please note that it is customary to take off your boots and slip into a pair of slippers when coming indoors at UNIS. This does also apply when entering some of the other public buildings in Longyearbyen.

There is a lot of sport activity in Longyearbyen; both indoors and outdoors, so bring also sports clothing (and swim wear) if you are interested.

It is possible to buy suitable outdoor clothing in Longyearbyen. Further, UNIS offers students to buy field clothes from the high quality brand Klättermusen for a very reasonable price. However, the stock may be limited in periods.

A recommended list of clothing and other articles to bring is found below:

Bicycles and skis
A bike is a useful means of transport, even in the winter, as the distance from UNIS to Nybyen is about 3 kilometres. You can bring your bicycle along on the plane or you can buy a new or used bike in Longyearbyen.

If you enjoy Nordic skiing, we recommend to bring your ski gear with you. Although there are no ski facilities in Svalbard, many enjoy skiing in the areas around Longyearbyen (just be aware of possible avalanche dangers). Skis can also be bought in Longyearbyen.

UNIS students skiing across Grønfjorden at Easter. (Photo: Tore Hattermann/UNIS).