Greenland in Summer: Packing List for June - September

Dreaming of exploring Greenland in the summer? Whether you’re planning your travel adventure for June, July, August, or September, packing smartly is essential for comfort and enjoyment.

What to Expect: Weather and Climate in Greenland in Summer

Greenland's arctic summer offers long days, vibrant nature, and a refreshing climate. Temperatures can vary significantly depending on the month and location. Here’s what you can expect in terms of average monthly temperatures:

  • Weather in Greenland in June: Early summer brings average temperatures typically ranging from 2°C to 10°C.
  • Weather in Greenland in July: July is often the warmest month, with average temperatures between 5°C and 15°C. .
  • Weather in Greenland in August: Expect average monthly temperatures from 3°C to 12°C.
  • Weather in Greenland in September: Early autumn brings cooler air, with average temperatures from °C to 8°C.
The air is dry and the sun is strong, so always be prepared for both chilly winds and warm sunshine. Greenland’s climate is shaped by its vast ice sheet, coastal winds, and the presence of icebergs drifting along the shores, creating a stunning scenery.

Greenland’s Seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter

While this guide focuses on summer, each of Greenland’s seasons offers something special. Spring brings life to the tundra, autumn paints the landscape in golden hues, and winter transforms Greenland into a wonderland of snow, northern lights, and outdoor activities.

Packing List for Greenland in Winter: October - April

Dreaming of experiencing Greenland in winter? When you’re planning your adventure between October and April, packing wisely is essential. With this winter packing list, you can prepare well, and enjoy the magic of winter in Greenland!

What to Wear in Greenland in Summer

Packing for Greenland in summer means thinking basic, practical, and comfortable. The key is the layer-on-layer principle, allowing you to adapt to changing weather conditions. Choose clothing that is easy to layer, including wool and waterproof items.
If you enjoy dressing up for dinner—perhaps at one of the hotels in Nuuk or Ilulissat—feel free to bring a nice outfit, but practicality is most important.

The difference between months:

  • July: Light layers, waterproof jacket, and mosquito protection are crucial.
  • August: Similar to July, but evenings can be cooler.
  • September: Warmer layers and windproof clothing are essential as temperatures drop.

Greenland Packing List: Essentials for June – September

In addition to your regular clothes, we recommend:

  • Footwear: Waterproof hiking shoes or boots with profiled soles for rugged terrain and tundra hikes.
  • Wind- and waterproof outerwear: Lightweight jackets and pants are ideal for the arctic climate.
  • Fleece jacket or vest: Perfect for layering and warmth.
  • Thermal underwear: Essential for cooler days and evenings.
  • Wool clothing: Wool sweaters and base layers provide warmth even when damp.
  • T-shirts: Both short and long-sleeved for layering.
  • Jeans or durable pants
  • Hat and gloves: Especially for sailing trips or chilly evenings.
  • Mittens: Wool or insulated mittens for extra warmth.
  • Socks: Bring several pairs of wool socks for warmth and comfort.
  • Layers: Pack multiple layers to adjust to changing weather.

Remember to Pack Sun & Dry Air Protection

  • Sunscreen: High factor, oil-based for strong Arctic sun.
  • Sunglasses: UV protection is a must, especially with the glare from icebergs and the ice sheet.
  • Hat or cap: For sun and wind protection.
  • Lip balm: To prevent chapped lips.
  • Eye drops: Especially important if you wear contact lenses.
  • Reusable water bottle: The dry air means you’ll need to drink more water than usual.

Mosquitoes & Insects are Part of Summer in Greenland

  • Mosquito repellent: Essential in July and August.
  • Antipruritic or antihistamine: For insect bites.
  • Mosquito net: Can be purchased locally if needed.

Additional Items for Your Greenland Packing List

  • Pocket binoculars: For wildlife and landscape viewing—especially if you want to spot whales along the coast near Ilulissat or Sisimiut.
  • Earplugs: Sled dogs can be noisy, especially north of the Arctic Circle.
  • Hiking map: We recommend Arctic Sun Maps (scanmaps.dk).

Baggage Rules for Flights to Greenland

When packing for Greenland, remember airline baggage limits:

  • Suitcase: Checked luggage maximum 20 kg
  • Backpack: Hand luggage maximum 8 kg
For aviation security, liquids and gels in hand luggage must be in containers of 100 ml or less. Sharp objects (hiking poles, pocket knives, knitting needles, nail scissors, etc.) must be packed in checked baggage. See more on flights to Greenland here. 

Outdoor Activities in Summer

Greenland is a paradise for outdoor activities in every season. In summer, enjoy hiking across the tundra, sailing among icebergs, whale watching, and exploring the vast ice sheet. In late August and September, you might even catch a glimpse of the northern lights.

Always check local travel tips for the best experiences in each region, from Nuuk (the capital) and Ilulissat to Qaqortoq and Sisimiut.

Things to do in Greenland

Greenland is the perfect place for adventure, with the Arctic Five experiences offering the best of nature and culture. Not sure where to start? Discover the top things to do and unforgettable moments waiting for you in Greenland.

Travel Tips: Currency, Hotels and More

  • Currency: The official currency in Greenland is the Danish krone (DKK). Euros are not widely accepted, so be sure to exchange your money before arrival.
  • Hotels: Book hotels in advance, especially in popular towns like Nuuk, Ilulissat, Qaqortoq, and Sisimiut.
  • Northern Lights: While summer is famous for the midnight sun, if you visit in late August or autumn, you may get lucky and see the northern lights.
  • Whales: Summer is the best time to spot whales along the coast, especially near Ilulissat and Sisimiut.
  • Time: Greenland spans several time zones, but most travelers arrive via Nuuk or Kangerlussuaq, which are in the same time zone as western Europe.
For more details on the weather, climate, and midnight sun in Greenland, click here.

What to do in Greenland in summer?

In summer, you can hike the tundra, sail among icebergs, go whale watching, kayak, explore the Ilulissat Icefjord, visit Nuuk’s museums, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience the midnight sun.

When is summer in Greenland?

Summer in Greenland is from early June to late September, when days are long and the landscape is vibrant.

How long is summer in Greenland?

Summer lasts about four months, typically from June through September.

How warm and cold is Greenland in the summer?

Summer temperatures usually range from 2°C to 15°C, with coastal towns like Nuuk and Ilulissat being milder, while inland and northern areas can be cooler.

Summer Travel Packages to Greenland