Skiing in Sweden: How to travel

Introduction

Have you ever fancied a winter holiday in Scandinavia but thought it might be tricky sorting out all the travels? Look no further, as getting around this part of the world can be both challenging and a breeze. Your options are many, and if you go to the most popular places, chances are that you will find a means of transportation just to your liking.

How to Fly to Sweden for Skiing

Looking for different flights can sometimes take a lot of work. Especially if you are going skiing. A tip is to examine each company’s rules on carrying extra luggage like skis. Luckily, because Sweden is such a long country, some places are regularly flown to by major airlines such as SAS. A stop in Stockholm Arlanda is necessary as it is the largest international airport.

If you want to fly into your ski destination, your biggest bet might be to fly to Hemavan. This is because the airport lies in town with slopes just minutes away. If you prefer to go to the other destinations, you should expect to spend some time in a taxi or rental car to reach the ski resort.

The main hubs for going skiing are otherwise Östersund, Kiruna, and Sälen (Scandinavian Mountain Airport). You can also fly to Trondheim if you visit the ski resorts in western Jämtland, such as Åre, Storlien, Trillevallen, and Huså. Going to the lower Lappland region, such as Kittelfjäll and Borgafjäll, you might also check flights to Vilhelmina.

The biggest drawback to flying is that it is not as good for the environment and can be a bit pricy.

Trains to Swedish Ski Resorts

Would you prefer to sleep on your way to the Swedish Mountains? Then jump on a train from the southern cities of Gothenburg or Malmoe in the afternoon or Stockholm in the evening, then wake up in the mountains in the morning. Taking the train to the ski resorts in Sweden limits you a bit as the railroad is only developed towards the regions of Jämtland and northernmost Lappland. You can go to Åre, Storlien and Abisko, Björkliden and Kiruna. If you want to go to the other resorts, going to Östersund by train and renting a car from there can be a good option.

Getting around Sweden by Car in the Winter

Traveling with your own or a rental car can be the most flexible option, both in reaching your destination and getting around when you are there. However, renting cars in Sweden can quickly replenish your budget – especially if you would like an SUV or station wagon and would like 4wd for better access. Winter tires will already be installed, but we have to check if they are studded. For travel in northern Sweden, studded tires are recommended.
In general, count on being able to travel around 70-90 km/hour, so depending on where you start – it may take some time to get to your destination. Roads can sometimes be icy or covered with a good layer of snow. Sometimes you end up behind a plow truck, and either you can’t pass safely – or driving on the unplowed road in front of the truck will be too dangerous. So make sure to plan enough time to be able to travel safely.
The biggest risk with traveling on icy roads is to start sliding into opposite traffic or down into a ditch, but an equally dangerous factor is the risk of crashing into animals. Reindeer and moose can sometimes be attracted to the road because the cleared roads are better than running in the deep snow. They can also find salt along the roads, so it is not uncommon to come upon a herd of reindeer standing in the middle. A big black plastic bag attached to a stick on the side of the road is usually a warning side that reindeer are in the area.

Conclusion

In summary, if you would like to travel, your best bet is to take the train or fly as close to the destination as possible and rent a car to allow you maximum flexibility. If you are going to Hemavan, you can fly all the way. If you go to Åre, Storlien, Abisko, Riksgränsen, and Björkliden, you can go on the train. If you are looking for a custom experience, look at the guide service – perhaps they can help with the last-mile transportation to a suitable location.