Drew’s Fjällräven Classic Sweden Q&A: Gear, Weather and Lessons from the Trail

The main Fjällräven Classic guide explains how the event works, how to prepare and what to expect. This page is different. It is a post-event Q&A with Drew after completing the Swedish Fjällräven Classic, focusing on the gear that mattered, the hardest moments on the trail and what he would tell anyone thinking of taking part.

Drew’s account adds first-hand detail that a general event guide cannot. From lost luggage and insects to severe weather and pack comfort, it gives a clearer picture of what the Swedish route can really involve.

In simple terms, this page works best as a real participant account that supports the wider Fjällräven Classic hub rather than repeating it.

About Drew’s Fjällräven Classic route

Drew completed the Swedish Fjällräven Classic, the best-known route in the series. It covers more than 100 kilometres through Swedish Lapland and asks participants to carry their own kit through changing weather, long days on the trail and exposed terrain.

If you want the wider event overview, route notes and preparation advice, go to our Fjällräven Classic hub page. This page stays focused on Drew’s first-hand experience after completing the event.

Drew’s Q&A

How did you prepare physically and mentally for the Fjällräven Classic?

25 years of doing this kind of stuff as a hobby/Job

What was the most challenging part of the trek for you?

The loss of all of my luggage. And Flying insects.

Can you describe a particularly memorable moment or highlight from the trail?

Trying to fall asleep at 02.30 with a massive thunder storm rolling up the valley torrential rain, 50mph winds, all whiles being light outside. Amazing

How did the weather conditions affect your experience during the hike?

It was very wet and windy for the first 3 days and nights, then 23 degrees and no wind at all.

What gear or equipment did you find absolutely essential on this trek?

My Fjallraven Kajka 65 was really good, 20Kg+ of kit for over 100km is no joke.

But the stand out bit of kit was the Fjallraven Abisko Lite 1 tent, all be it small, it stood up to 50mph+ winds and torrential rain for 3 nights! it is totally bomb proof, if not a little bit small for me, @ 6"2' and 80KG. Brilliant

Did you make any new friends or connections with fellow hikers along the way?

Yes, the guys for the Fjallraven team were all absolutly brilliant. i would like to pay a special thanks to Georgina from Fenix UK. She was amazing through out the trip, and sorted out all of my replacement kit after all my luggage was lost.

How did the Swedish landscape and nature compare to other places you’ve hiked?

Swedish Lapland could be best described as like the Scottish highlands on steroids.

I have hiked all over the world each place has its own "feel" but i have always enjoyed spending time in Northern Scandinavia.

What did you learn about yourself during the Fjällräven Classic?

Yes, that i don't need tobacco anywhere as much as i thought it would.

Would you do the Fjällräven Classic again, or would you recommend it to others?

Without any reservation Yes, To Both!

What advice would you give to someone considering participating in the Fjällräven Classic next year?

Get the best kit you can afford, Do not underestimate how hard it is! Train for it.

Take lots of treats, Sweden is VERY expensive.

Browse and buy

Explore the wider Fjällräven collection, compare Fjällräven backpacks and packs, or return to the main Fjällräven Classic guide for route, training and preparation notes.

Related reading

• Fjällräven Classic UK and the Fjällräven Classic: route, kit, training and what to expect
• Celebrating 20 Years of the Fjällräven Classic + Q&A with Andrew from Fjällräven Manchester
• Fjällräven Travel Pack, Splitpack and Kajka

Based on Drew’s first-hand answers after completing the Swedish Fjällräven Classic.