Northern Lights Tips

There's never been a better time to plan a trip to see the Northern Lights. Recent solar activity has resulted in spectacular displays, with significant events in September and October 2024. These vibrant auroras are expected to continue through 2025 and even into 2026, as the Sun enters the peak of its 11-year cycle. So how do you go about ensuring you don’t miss out on seeing them?

1. Avoid the Sun

It might sound odd for holiday advice, but avoiding the sun is crucial when chasing the Northern Lights. The best countries to witness this natural phenomenon include Iceland, Norway and Finland. Sun, sea and sand may not be words synonymous with these places. However, in the height of summer these destinations don't have sunset until around midnight, and the sun rises before 3am. That might be great if you want to say you partied all night but you don’t really have the stamina to do so! But it prevents you from being able to spot Aurora Borealis.

The good news? Autumn and winter in the same countries bring long, dark nights, with October to March offering the best opportunities to catch the Northern Lights. So trade those sunglasses for a wooly hat and gloves, then embrace the magic of the night sky.

2. Check the Forecasts

Aurora hunting involves keeping an eye on not one, but two kinds of forecasts: weather and space. Weather can be unpredictable - as any Brit should know all too well! Even if you’ve bagged a last-minute deal, the forecast might change before you travel. But don't let that dampen your aurora dreams. Most organised tours will be cancelled if a storm rolls in, with providers offering refunds and rebooking options.

Then there's the aurora forecast. The KP index - a scale from 0 to 9 - predicts geomagnetic activity and your chances of seeing a dazzling display. The higher the score, the farther south the auroras can stretch and the more intense the spectacle becomes.

To maximise your chances, plan your Northern Lights expedition early in your trip. If the first night doesn't work out, you'll have time to try again. Many operators even include "second chance" tours, so you won't miss out if the lights decide to play coy on your first attempt.

3. Escape the Glow

When it comes to catching the Northern Lights, pollution can be a real party pooper, and it's not just the light form. Sure, escaping the bright city lights is step one, but there's another kind to consider - air pollution. Impurities in the atmosphere, like those from urban areas or natural sources (such as sulphur in Iceland), can reduce your chances. Your best bet? Venture deep into nature. Heading into a national park or remote wilderness area will boost your odds far more than simply stepping out in Reykjavik. In short, the darker and cleaner the sky, the brighter your aurora experience.

4. Mind the Moon

Picture this: it's a crisp winter night, the skies are clear, and you're in the perfect countryside spot. But wait - what's that up there? A glaringly bright moon, hogging the spotlight! While you can't control the weather, the moon phase is one thing you can accurately predict. Before planning your trip, check the lunar calendar. A new moon or a crescent phase will give you the darkest skies, letting the aurora shine in all its glory. With a little planning, you'll dodge any celestial competition and give yourself the best chance to witness the northern lights at their dazzling best.

Extra Tips for an Unforgettable Aurora Adventure

To make the most of your Northern Lights experience, a little extra preparation goes a long way. Here are some practical tips to ensure your adventure is as magical as it is safe:

• Aurora hunting may involve long periods of being in the cold, so dress appropriately. Layer up with thermals, fleece, and a weatherproof jacket, and don't forget essentials like gloves and a hat. A flask of hot chocolate or coffee can also make those chilly moments a lot more enjoyable!

• If you're heading out on your own, rather than joining an organised tour, be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid wandering too far from your hire car in the dark. The combination of low visibility, unfamiliar terrain, and icy conditions can increase the risk of getting lost or injured.

• To maximise your chance of capturing the magic, consider using a tripod to steady your phone or camera, use long exposures, a high ISO setting (1600 or more) and a wide-angle lens with a low f-stop (e.g. f/2.8).

With these tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy the Northern Lights to their fullest - whether you're soaking up the view, snapping the perfect photo, or simply staying cosy under the stars.

About the author

Edmund Myerscough loves exploring new destinations. His favourite holiday, so far, was a trip to the Balkans that included Dubrovnik, Mostar and Kotor.