What to wear for aurora watching

Layers

• Base layer: merino wool or synthetic thermal top and leggings. Avoid cotton: it holds moisture and cools you.
• Middle layer: a fleece or wool sweater; a second pair of thermal trousers for very cold nights.
• Outer layer: an insulated, windproof jacket (down or synthetic) and insulated or windproof trousers. Wind makes a mild night feel much colder.

Extremities

• Feet: insulated winter boots with room for thick wool socks; tight boots get cold. Insoles help on snow and ice.
• Hands: thin liner gloves for camera controls under warm mittens. Chemical hand warmers are cheap and effective.
• Head and face: a warm hat that covers the ears and a neck gaiter or balaclava for wind.

Small things that help

• A thermos with a hot drink and some food: you burn energy staying warm.
• Something to stand or sit on — a foam pad keeps the cold of the ground away.
• Spare batteries kept in an inside pocket; cold drains them fast.
• Ice cleats or microspikes for icy parking areas and paths.

Know the warning signs

Frostbite starts with numb, pale or waxy skin, often on cheeks, nose, ears and fingers. Hypothermia shows as uncontrollable shivering, clumsiness and confusion. If you notice either, get somewhere warm. Each place page shows typical night-time temperatures for the best months.