Before heading to the Fjällräven Classic Sweden, I was plagued by immense fear of persistent rain, the cold, and my own English skills. In the end, I successfully conquered the entire 110 km route in 4 days, and my gear held up wonderfully. Today, I bring you a complete assessment of the logistics, service, and how the challenging conditions in the wilderness unfolded.
Event Organization and Comprehensive Service Included in the Entry Fee
The organization by Fjällräven had a slightly different character than last year’s Campfire event in the Czech Republic. Initially, it seemed a bit chaotic. However, the freedom gained had an incredible charm. Everyone could go at their own pace, and it didn’t matter whether you completed the route in a single day or six.
The registration fee is definitely worth it, as the organizers provide complete service for all participants:
- Bus Transfers: Includes transport from the airport or train station to registration in Kiruna and then a shuttle directly to the start in Nikkaluokta.
- Luggage Transport: They arrange the transport of one large piece of luggage or bag (up to 20 kg / 60 l) from Kiruna to the finish in Abisko.
- Food for the Entire Trek: You receive Real Turmat freeze-dried meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), bread, and Swedish cheese in a tube. Replenishments are available along the way.
- Fuel: You can also refill Primus gas canisters with a standard thread on the trail.
- Maps and Safety: You receive a topographic map (1:75,000) in a waterproof case, an orange safety cover for your backpack, a trash bag, and a roll of toilet paper.
- Trekking Passport and Rewards: You get an official passport for collecting stamps at checkpoints and a finisher’s textile patch with a commemorative badge at the finish.
Navigating the checkpoints worked smoothly thanks to beeps into the system and stamps. The route was also clearly marked with orange blazes on rocks and trees. I only used the Mapy.com app as an occasional backup.
Transportation and Logistics of the Swedish Trek
I secured my tickets during the official pre-sale. My journey to Sweden began the day before the start with a flight on the Prague – Stockholm – Kiruna route. In Kiruna, I handled registration, stayed at an STF hostel, and the next morning, I took a bus to the start in Nikkaluokta.
From the finish in Abisko, after completing the trek, I traveled back to Stockholm by bus. I spent two days there exploring the city and enjoyed a traditional “fika” with the iconic cardamom snail pastry.
However, based on this experience, the route would make more sense in a different order. Next time, I would first fly to Stockholm for 1-2 days beforehand, then fly to Kiruna, and after finishing the trail in Abisko, take the bus back to Kiruna for my flight home. This variation would save a lot of energy time-wise.
How My Gear Performed in Rain and Dampness
The conditions on the trail tested my equipment to the maximum. The terrain consisted of rocky fields, deep mud, and slippery wooden boardwalks (spångar). I listed the complete set of items in the introductory article.
- Rain Gear: The Etalon jacket from Nalehko was windproof and waterproof. Similarly, the Rab Kinetic pants protected me excellently throughout the trail. I practically didn’t take them off. Drying clothes was challenging due to the constant dampness, and the pants suffered a few scuffs, so I’ll try to repair them or replace them eventually.
- Foot and Footwear Care: For the first time, I tried Dexshell waterproof socks in combination with Altra Lone Peak shoes. To prevent blisters, I had to use tape. On the first rainy day, I didn’t wear my Dexshells; I walked all day in wet socks (Darn Tough) and shoes. An evening application of Jizerský puk cream saved my feet. The cream worked great, although it’s harder to apply in the cold. The question arises whether to stick with the Dexshell sock combination or switch to Altras with a Gore-Tex membrane.
- Backpack and Tent: The Unbound (55) backpack from Hyperlite Mountain Gear performed flawlessly. The organizational bags from Decathlon also served as an excellent pillow base. My Big Agnes Tiger Wall tent reliably protected me, even after so many days of dampness and condensation issues. The problem is the local soil, which is mostly rocky, so the stakes can’t be used properly; they have to be used in combination with substantial rocks.
Real Turmat Food, Drinking Water, and Personal Impressions
Real Turmat food is simply fantastic! I tried several varieties, and each one lifted my spirits on the trail. After a rainy day, there’s nothing better than snuggling into your sleeping bag and enjoying a hot, delicious meal. I didn’t need to refill fuel; on the contrary, a large portion remained, and I left the canister in Abisko.
Besides that, I didn’t even take my water filter out of my backpack. I drank water directly from wild mountain waterfalls and streams, following the example of other hikers. The water was perfectly clean and delicious. Even the dreaded mosquitoes were, likely due to the rain and wind, completely unbothered.
My previous concerns about English turned out to be completely unnecessary; I always managed to communicate somehow. I’m not saying perfectly, but I believe I understood everything that was necessary, and people were always helpful with a smile. I didn’t meet any Czechs on the trail, and apart from a brief greeting, I didn’t speak to anyone for several days, but this gave me plenty of time to write my journal and read a book on my Kindle.
Participating in the Fjällräven Classic Sweden was an amazing experience that pulled me far out of my comfort zone. I confirmed that my gear works reliably and that it’s worthwhile to overcome one’s own fears.
Are you also tempted to embark on a similar adventure in the Swedish wilderness? What clothing has worked best for you in rainy mountain weather? And would you prefer lightweight shoes with waterproof socks or classic membrane footwear? Share your tips and questions in the comments below the article!
