Large group of people with arms raised under green aurora

8 Hours

Northern Lights with Kids: What to Expect in the Van

Key takeaways

  • Thermal overalls protect you in Arctic conditions. The van has heating. Bring layers. Hot drinks and snacks during the night keep energy up.
  • Stops happen during the 6 to 10 hour drive. Ask your guide about facilities in remote areas before you depart from your accommodation.
  • An eight-hour night tour suits older children who can stay awake and sit still. Speak with the team about your child's age and readiness first.
  • The 4x4 van has steps and tight seating. Pregnant travellers and those with heart or back conditions should call ahead to discuss fit.
  • No pets travel in the van. No alcohol or smoking on board. Motion sickness on forest roads is possible; sit in front if prone to it.

Refreshments and dietary needs

An eight-hour night in the Arctic demands comfort. The tour provides thermal overalls to keep you warm while you're outside hunting for lights, and the brand-new 2025 vans are heated and designed for long journeys. However, you should plan ahead for food and drink. If you have dietary requirements or allergies, contact the operator before booking to discuss what can be arranged.

Bring a flask or ask about bringing your own hot drinks. The wilderness drives take you far from towns and restaurants, so packing snacks you enjoy is wise. This ensures you won't go hungry during the night and can manage any dietary preferences without stress.

Toilet stops on wilderness roads

During a six to ten-hour drive through remote forest, toilet access requires planning. The van will make stops, though wilderness locations mean facilities are limited and may be basic. Ask your guide about the planned route so you understand where stops occur and what to expect.

Aurora borealis above snowy forest road stretching ahead

Warmth waits: hot berry juice by the fire under Arctic stars

Children and younger travellers on a night tour

An eight-hour tour that runs through the night suits older children and teenagers who can stay awake and enjoy the experience. Younger children often struggle with the late hours and cold. If you're travelling with a child, think honestly about whether they can handle a full night outdoors in Arctic conditions, even with thermal gear provided. Discuss your child's age and temperament with the operator beforehand.

Limited mobility and van access

The tour travels in a modern 4x4 van with comfortable seating for up to eight guests. If you have reduced mobility or use a wheelchair, contact the operator to discuss whether the vehicle and typical stops suit your needs. The wilderness setting means some flexibility on your part may be needed, but the operator can advise on what works.

8 h

Eight hours in the Arctic night means your van stays warm and comfortable with room to stretch across eight individual seats.

Medical conditions and pregnancy

An eight-hour night spent partly outdoors in sub-zero temperatures is demanding physically. If you have heart conditions, severe asthma, or are pregnant, speak with the operator and your doctor before booking. The guide is first-aid trained, but the remote location and cold are factors to weigh. The operator will help you decide if the tour is suitable for your health.

Carsickness, pets, smoking and alcohol

Forest roads can be winding. If you're prone to carsickness, sit in the front or centre of the van and focus on the horizon. Pets are not mentioned as permitted, so check with the operator if you're considering bringing an animal. Smoking and alcohol rules are not specified by the operator, so ask directly about their policy before the tour starts.

Your Group, Your Pace - Eight Hours in the Arctic

Book Now

What's provided

  • Thermal overalls
  • Professional photos
  • Certified guide
  • Hotel pickup included
  • Drinking water
  • First aid trained

Key facts

  • Tour duration8 hours
  • Group sizeMaximum 8 guests
  • Vehicle typeLuxury 4×4 van
  • Toilet stopsEn route as needed
  • Minimum ageConsult operator
  • AccessibilityConsult operator

Before you book

Can I bring my own snacks or water?
You're welcome to bring your own food and drinks. The tour typically runs 6-10 hours in Arctic conditions, so packing what suits your needs is a good idea.
What if I have dietary allergies?
Contact the operator in advance about your specific dietary requirements or allergies. They can advise what's feasible during the extended wilderness drive.
Are there toilet stops during the night?
Yes. On an 8-hour tour covering wilderness terrain, the guide will arrange rest stops where you can use facilities and stretch before continuing the hunt.
Is it safe for pregnant women?
Pregnant travellers should check with their doctor first. An 8-hour night drive over forest roads in cold conditions requires physical stamina and comfort considerations.
Can someone with heart conditions join?
People with serious heart conditions should consult their GP before booking. Discuss the extended duration, Arctic cold, and active driving conditions with your doctor.
Are pets allowed in the van?
The tour description does not mention pets. Contact the operator directly to ask about bringing an animal on the 8-hour journey.
Can I smoke or drink alcohol?
The tour does not permit smoking or alcohol consumption in the vehicle. This keeps the van comfortable and safe for all guests during the extended drive.
What if I get carsick on forest roads?
Let your guide know if you're prone to motion sickness. Sitting near the front, taking breaks, and having fresh air may help during the long night drive.
Can I sleep in the van between sightings?
The luxury 4x4 van is equipped for comfort during long hours. You can rest inside while the guide monitors sky conditions, though staying alert helps spot the lights.
What about wheelchair or mobility access?
The van is modern but designed for mobile guests. If you have limited mobility, contact the operator to discuss whether the vehicle and tour suit your needs.

Best for Cold-Weather Endurance

This tour suits travellers comfortable spending eight hours seated in a moving vehicle through Arctic darkness. If extended periods in cold conditions, frequent stops, or long waits outdoors concern you, reconsider joining.

4,000+travellers booked

Check availability