What you need to know about driving in Lapland in Winter
Lapland Car Rental, Road Rules & Safety for Australians
If you’re planning a winter trip to Finnish Lapland, chances are you’ve wondered whether you should rent a car. The idea of driving in snow and ice might sound intimidating – but honestly, it’s one of the best ways to explore Lapland at your own pace. With the right preparation, a car gives you the freedom to chase the Northern Lights, visit reindeer and husky farms, stay in remote glass igloos and explore beautiful frozen landscapes – all without being tied to bus timetables or paying additional fees for transport!
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Here’s everything you need to know about winter driving in Lapland, from road rules and car hire tips to insurance must-haves and safety advice – all written specifically for Australians.
Page Contents
Should you rent a car in Lapland?
If you love flexibility, yes – absolutely! Public transport is reliable between major towns like Rovaniemi, Levi, Ruka and Saariselkä, but once you’re outside those hubs, a car makes life much easier.
You’ll appreciate having your own wheels if you want to:
- Visit local reindeer farms or husky kennels
- Go aurora hunting at night
- Stay in off-the-beaten-path accommodations
- Explore frozen lakes, waterfalls and national parks
- Discover lesser known destinations
Car hire basics in Lapland
Most international visitors pick up their rental car from Rovaniemi Airport, Kittilä Airport, or Kuusamo Airport. All major companies (including Budget, Avis, Europcar, SixT and Hertz) operate here, with fleets prepared for Arctic conditions.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Licence: Your full Australian driver’s licence is valid in Finland.
- Age: Most companies require drivers to be at least 20-21; some charge extra if you’re under 25.
- Transmission: Most cars are manual, so if you prefer automatic, book early.
- Deposit: A credit card is usually required for the security hold.
- Fuel: Petrol is marked “95E10” or “98E5” – both are unleaded. Diesel cars are common.
I always check a range of sites to look for the best deal. Often I find those on a comparison site and I don’t shy away from booking through them – I’ve never had any issues! Check them out:
Winter tyres & legal requirements
Between November and March, winter tyres are mandatory across Finland. Most locals use studded tyres and rental companies automatically provide these at no extra cost.
Other must-knows:
- Keep your headlights on at all times, day or night.
- Always clear snow and ice from your windows, mirrors and number plates before driving.
- Seatbelts are compulsory for all passengers.
- Speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 80 km/h outside built-up areas, and 100 km/h on highways (often reduced in winter).
- Watch for reindeer crossing signs – they mean it!
Insurance: What you actually need
It’s easy to assume your rental car booking includes everything – but it rarely does.
Look for:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) with a reasonable excess
- Tyre, windscreen and undercarriage cover
- Theft protection (often included, but check)
- Excess reduction options if you want peace of mind
Your travel insurance should include car hire coverage for accidents, delays, or if your car gets stuck and causes missed connections.
How to drive safely on snow and ice
The roads in Lapland are well-maintained, even in heavy snow, but you’ll need to adjust your driving style:
- Slow down – black ice isn’t always visible.
- Brake gently to avoid skidding.
- Leave extra space between cars.
- Avoid sudden steering movements.
- Don’t overtake snowploughs – they’re clearing your path!
If you do start to skid, ease off the accelerator, steer gently in the direction you want to go and avoid slamming the brakes.
Parking in Lapland (and how to avoid fines)
Parking rules are strict in Finland. Many spots require you to display a parking disc (blue clock-style dial) to show your arrival time. These are usually available from service stations or rental counters.
- Always check the signs – times and fees vary.
- Do not park overnight in snowplough zones or outside marked bays.
- If staying at accommodation, ask about plug-in points for your car’s block heater overnight.
Read my article How to Avoid Parking Fines in Lapland – because yes, I’ve learned the hard way!
Using the car’s block heater
Every local car park has strange little posts with sockets – those are engine block heaters. In extreme cold, plug the heater cable (provided in your car) into the post to keep your engine warm overnight.
You’ll also want to:
- Use -30°C rated washer fluid,
- Carry an ice scraper and snow brush,
- Remove ice from lights and mirrors before driving.
Fuel & EV Charging
Fuel stations are self-service and often automated. Most accept Visa or Mastercard. If you’ve chosen an EV or hybrid, major charging networks like ABC and Neste have fast chargers along main routes – though plan ahead in remote areas.
Suggested Winter Driving Routes
| Route | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Rovaniemi → Ranua | 80 km | Ranua Zoo, reindeer farms |
| Rovaniemi → Levi (Kittilä) | 170 km | Arctic landscapes, aurora hunting |
| Levi → Ylläs → Pallas National Park | 80 km | Scenic national park drive |
| Kuusamo → Ruka → Posio | 60 km | Livo Arctic cabins, Riisitunturi National Park |
All are sealed and regularly cleared during winter.
What to pack in the car
- Ice scraper + snow brush
- Phone charger + power bank
- Water & snacks
- Blanket
- Headtorch
- Small shovel (handy if stuck in deep snow)
Download my Lapland Winter Driving Checklist from Lapland Lowdown.
FAQs about driving in Lapland
Can Australians drive in Lapland?
Yes! Your Australian licence is valid.
Do I need snow-driving experience?
No – just take it slow and keep your distance.
Is alcohol allowed in the car?
Finnish law is strict – the blood alcohol limit is 0.05% and police often test randomly.
Can I drive into Sweden or Norway?
Usually yes, but confirm with your rental company first and check insurance coverage.
My honest advice
If you’re comfortable behind the wheel and want to make the most of your time in Lapland, renting a car is 100% worth it. It gives you freedom, flexibility and the chance to see the real Lapland – not just what’s accessible by bus.
Just remember to drive cautiously, take your time and be prepared for snow and ice. You’ll gain a whole new appreciation for Finland’s calm roads, stunning landscapes and magical Northern Lights moments that you’d miss otherwise.
Plan your trip with confidence
Ready to explore Lapland your way?
- Compare car hire prices for winter-ready vehicles.
- Make sure you’re covered with Cover-More Travel Insurance – it’s the one I personally use.
- Prefer to join a small group trip instead? Check out my Lapland Adventure Group Trips – they include transfers, experiences and peace of mind (no icy roads required!).
Erin Parker is a Finnish Lapland specialist, women’s adventure host and founder of Lapland Lowdown & Travel Her Way. She has travelled six continents and brings first-hand experience to every destination she writes about – from the Arctic wilderness of Finnish Lapland to the high Andes of Peru. Based in Melbourne, Australia, Erin helps long-haul travellers plan extraordinary Finnish Lapland adventures and leads small group trips for women who are ready to explore the world boldly.
