How To Drive Safely On Snow & Ice In Lapland

Driving in Lapland during winter can be one of the most memorable and beautiful experiences of your trip. Snow-covered forests, sparkling white landscapes, and wide, quiet roads make for a truly magical journey. The good news? Roads in Lapland are exceptionally well-maintained – even during heavy snowfall. But winter driving here is different from back home in Australia and it’s important to adjust your driving style to suit the conditions.

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Here are some key tips to help you drive safely on snow and ice in Lapland:

Slow down – black ice isn’t always visible

The number one rule of winter driving is to take your time. Even though Finnish roads are cleared regularly, you’ll often drive on compacted snow or icy patches, especially in the early morning or evening. Black ice can form without warning and is nearly impossible to see – so slow your speed, keep your movements smooth and give yourself extra time to reach your destination.

Brake gently to avoid skidding

Sudden braking can cause your tyres to lose grip. Instead, apply gentle, steady pressure to the brakes and anticipate stops well in advance. If your car has anti-lock brakes (ABS), keep your foot pressed firmly but smoothly when stopping – don’t pump the brakes.

Leave extra space between cars

In snowy or icy conditions, it takes longer to slow down or stop. Increase the distance between you and the car in front to at least double (if not triple) what you would leave on dry roads. This gives you plenty of time to react if they brake or slide unexpectedly.

Avoid sudden steering movements

Sharp turns or quick lane changes can cause your tyres to lose traction. Keep your steering gentle and deliberate – especially when cornering or merging.

Don’t overtake snowploughs

You’ll often see snowploughs and grit trucks working to clear the roads. They move slower, but they’re doing you a big favour – never overtake a snowplough. They’re clearing and salting the surface ahead, and the conditions in front of them will almost always be worse than behind.

If you start to skid…

It happens, even to experienced winter drivers. If your car begins to skid, stay calm. Ease off the accelerator, steer gently in the direction you want to go and don’t slam the brakes. Over-reacting or jerky movements can make the skid worse. Rental cars in Lapland are equipped with winter tyres and stability systems that help you regain control quickly.

A few extra tips for peace of mind

• Keep your headlights on at all times – it’s the law in Finland, day and night.
• Clear snow from your roof, lights and number plates before driving.
• Use low gears when driving downhill to help control your speed.
• Carry warm clothes, a charged phone and some snacks – just in case you need to wait for assistance.
• Make sure your travel insurance covers rental car use and incidents caused by snow or ice. If you’re unsure, Cover-More Travel Insurance offers comprehensive policies that include car hire protection, missed connections, and emergency assistance – giving you confidence to enjoy the drive.

Learn more or get a quote here: Cover-More Travel Insurance

Driving through Lapland in winter is part of the adventure – and with the right approach, it’s perfectly safe. Take it slow, stay alert and enjoy the ride through one of the most stunning regions on Earth.