Our Top Tips for Aurora Success!

Seeing the Aurora Borealis is a bucket list moment for so many travellers, and we’re thrilled to finally say we’ve ticked it off our own list! After five trips to the Northern Hemisphere, we finally saw them properly near the Arctic Circle. Now, we’re sharing our top tips to help you experience the magic of the Northern Lights for yourself.

1. Skip the tours Let’s save your wallet, shall we? Instead of splashing out on pricey tours, rent a car, check the weather for clear skies, and head out on your own. That’s exactly what we did—a quick 20-minute drive led to some of the most stunning lights we’ve ever seen. No tour could promise that level of awe!

2. Skip the KP readings Here’s a secret: those KP readings in the apps? Not as reliable as you’d think. The apps are great for tracking cloud coverage and spotting where others have logged sightings, but don’t let a low KP stop you from heading out. We saw incredible lights at a KP of 2, while a KP of 6 left us staring at… well, nothing. Trust the sky, not the app.

3. Layer up Standing in the freezing cold, staring at the sky, can feel magical but also… let’s be real, chilly. You’ll need layers. Lots of them. Think thermal everything, thick socks, gloves, and a hat. Comfort is key when you’re braving Arctic temps for the perfect view.

4. Drive carefully Northern roads can be slippery and treacherous, especially in the dark. Drive cautiously, park safely, and make sure your car is visible if you need to stop. The Northern Lights are breathtaking, but safety comes first.

5. Master your camera Your smartphone might not cut it here (sorry, iPhone). To truly capture the beauty of the auroras, bring a tripod and use manual camera settings. Experiment with a low ISO and long exposure. A little practice before your trip can go a long way when the lights start dancing.

6. Patience is everything The auroras don’t always burst into colour right away. At first glance, they might look like faint clouds. Let your eyes adjust to the dark, and you’ll start to see the magic. The lights can peak for 2–3 minutes before fading, but this cycle often repeats, so stick around and keep watching. Your patience will be rewarded.