Climate and clothing
Despite a very northern latitude, the climate in Sweden is rather mild. Average conditions can, however, vary significantly between northern and southern Sweden.
Climate
Students staying in Stockholm for one full year will enjoy the experience of four separate seasonal climates. Spring in Stockholm typically begins in April and ends in May, with average daytime temperatures of 5-14° C. Summer spans from June to August, with average temperatures of 20-25° C. Autumn begins in September, ends in November and has average temperatures of 5-18° C. Average temperatures in the winter months, December through March, range from -7° to 2° C. Keep in mind that these temperatures are average daytime temperatures. Temperatures in the summer can approach 30° C and winter chills can occasionally reach -20° C.
Summer days in Sweden also boast up to 19 hours of sunlight at its peak, while the wintertime daylight dwindles to as little as 5 hours per day in the later part of December.
Summer day routine in Stockholm
Digital ambassador Fausta on everlasting sun and summer nights in Stockholm.
Why winter should not stop you from coming to KI
Digital ambassador Zaynab on why Swedish winters aren't such a big deal after all.
Clothing
The Swedish seasons offer plenty of variation to enjoy, but it is important to be prepared with appropriate clothing. Be aware, however, that Swedish homes and public spaces are generally well insulated and heated, so you will not need to wear heavy clothing indoors. You can find plenty of second hand shops in Stockholm, if you need to get winter clothing in Sweden.
Good to have
- A warm, wind-resistant jacket
- Warm, sturdy boots
- Medium or heavy-weight hat, gloves, and scarf
- Thermal underwear
- Water-resistant shoes for wet spring and autumn days
Also, don't forget to pack swimwear for the summer, so you can fully enjoy the beautiful Stockholm archipelago! Places for swimming are never far away, even in the city.
Darkness during winter
One thing that many international students struggle with more than the cold is the lack of sunlight during winter. In December, when the sun is up for 6 hours at most, many students find it hard to focus on studies. To help you prepare for how to handle the Swedish darkness, you can find plenty of tips from our Digital ambassadors.