Seeing the Northern Lights is a unforgettable experience, but many travellers unknowingly make avoidable mistakes that can lead to disappointment. To ensure you have the best possible experience, here are 10 common mistakes you want to avoid when hunting for the aurora borealis.
1. Only Planning for One Night
Many travelers make the mistake of scheduling just one night for Northern Lights viewing. However, the aurora is a natural phenomenon, meaning visibility depends on factors like solar activity and weather conditions. To increase your chances, plan at least 3 to 5 nights in a good viewing location.
2. Not Checking the Aurora Forecast
The Northern Lights are unpredictable, but tools like NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, numerous Aurora Service Apps, or local meteorological websites provide real-time aurora forecasts. Checking these before heading out helps avoid wasted trips when activity is low.
3. Ignoring the Weather Conditions
Even if auroral activity is strong, cloudy skies can completely block your view. Always check the local weather forecast and look for areas with clear skies before heading out. Sometimes, driving just a few miles to a clearer area can make all the difference.
4. Choosing a Spot with Too Much Light Pollution
City lights can significantly reduce visibility. Avoid major urban areas and find a location with minimal light pollution—national parks, remote countryside areas, or designated dark sky reserves are ideal for the best viewing experience.
5. Arriving at the Wrong Time
While the Northern Lights can technically appear anytime it’s dark, the best hours are between 10 PM and 2 AM. Many people give up too early and miss out on peak activity. Be patient, dress warmly, and stay out for a few hours to maximize your chances. Sometimes, however, the Lights do indeed start to dance straight away after sunset, but far from every time.
6. Wearing the Wrong Clothing
Standing outside in freezing temperatures for hours requires proper preparation. The biggest mistake? Not dressing in layers. Wear:
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- Thermal base layers
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- Insulated winter clothing
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- Waterproof boots and gloves
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- A hat that covers your ears
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- Hand and foot warmers for extra comfort
7. Forgetting to Bring Essential Gear
A Northern Lights hunt often means long hours outdoors in cold, remote areas. Don’t forget these essentials:
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- A flashlight or headlamp (preferably with a red light to protect night vision)
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- Extra batteries & power banks (cold weather drains battery life quickly!)
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- Snacks & hot drinks to stay energized and warm
8. Using the Wrong Camera Settings
If you plan to photograph the aurora, automatic settings won’t work well. Instead, use:
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- Manual focus (focus on a distant light or star)
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- ISO 800-3200 (or higher, depending on brightness)
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- Wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower)
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- Shutter speed of 5-15 seconds
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- A tripod to keep your camera stable
9. Expecting the Lights to Look Like They Do in Photos
This is a big one: Many people assume the aurora will be as vivid to the naked eye as it appears in long-exposure photographs. In reality, the lights often appear as a soft glow, with colors intensifying depending on solar activity. Your camera will pick up details that your eyes might not immediately see!
10. Not Enjoying the Moment
And finally the biggest mistake you can make: While capturing photos and videos is great, pleeease don’t forget to pause and take in the experience in real life. The Northern Lights are a magical event, and sometimes the best memory is simply watching them dance across the sky without worrying about settings and gear. Sometimes, the Northern Lights are a matter of just a few moments. Make sure to appreciate them, pictures will not recreate the personal experience.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll increase your chances of having an unforgettable Northern Lights experience. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned aurora hunter, being prepared makes all the difference.
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