Nordic summer is a real thing of beauty. A magical time of the year when the sun barely sets, the air smells like wildflowers and sea breeze, and everyone seems to rediscover the joy of being outside. It’s not tropical, sure. It can still be breezy or even a bit moody weather-wise. But that’s part of its charm. Long light evenings, cool dips in the fjord, spontaneous barbecues, and quiet fika in the garden… it’s a season worth celebrating — and gifting for.
Picnic Kits & Outdoor Essentials
Nordic summers were made for picnics. With the extended daylight hours, people love lingering outdoors — in parks, on balconies, even on the beach wrapped in a blanket. A well-packed picnic set is a hit: think a foldable blanket, stylish cooler bag, reusable cutlery, and maybe a thermos for that evening tea or coffee. Bonus points if it looks good in an Instagram story. As an alternative, you can also treat them to a nice meal, a cup of java – or both, just get them a Joe and The Juice gavekort.
Scandi-Style Home Details
Even with all that daylight, there’s always a love for home coziness in the Nordics. Gifts like linen table runners, ceramic mugs, or handmade candleholders add warmth to summer interiors. If you’re unsure of someone’s taste, a gift card (aka gavekort) to a local design store like Illums Bolighus or Lagerhaus lets them pick something beautiful and functional. Better yet, grab one for a very popular brand, Søstrene Grene – just look for Søstrene Grene gavekort.
Grill & Garden Treats
Barbecue culture is low-key big in the Nordic summer. A set of sleek grill tools, a Scandinavian-style apron, or even artisanal rubs and sauces make great gifts for the backyard chef. And for green thumbs? Outdoor herb gardens, planters, or even a seed kit for Nordic-friendly veggies like dill, chives, or radishes go over well.
Summer Skincare & SPF Must-Haves
Yes, even in cooler climates, SPF is essential. Long hours in the sun — even filtered through clouds — call for solid sun care. A skincare set with a good SPF, refreshing face mist, and lightweight moisturiser is practical with a healthy splash of luxury. Not sure which product to pick? A Matas or Apoteket gift card solves that easily.
Nordic-Lite Accessories
Summer wardrobes in the north are all about layering — think light knits, breathable fabrics, and practical accessories. A stylish scarf, linen tote, or chic bucket hat makes a lovely and useful gift. Sunglasses, too — especially ones with UV protection and minimal, Scandi-style frames.
Books & Lazy-Day Reads
With nature all around and time slowing down, summer is a perfect time to read. Whether it’s fiction, nature essays, or Nordic noir, books make great gifts. Wrap one up with a bar of local chocolate or some herbal tea, and you’ve got a gift that invites total relaxation.
Experiences Over Things
Nordic culture often values simplicity and experiences over excess. So why not gift something they can do? A voucher for a kayak rental, paddleboard session, museum visit, or outdoor spa is a fantastic, memory-making gift. In Sweden, even a fika gift card to a cozy local café is appreciated.
Craft & DIY Kits for Rainy Days
Let’s be honest — even in summer, rain happens. And sometimes it’s really cozy to stay in. A DIY craft kit (think embroidery, candle making, or knitting with cotton yarn) gives them something mindful to do when the weather turns. You could also go for a Bauhaus gift card — a practical catch-all for home and hobby projects.
Snacks & Specialty Foods
Nordic countries love their food rituals. A little hamper of locally made snacks — crispbread, cheeses, jam, or artisanal chocolates — makes a generous and thoughtful gift. Add in a bottle of elderflower cordial or a nice non-alcoholic cider and you’re golden.
Something to Say “Slow Down”
More than anything, summer in the north is about embracing the slow life. Gifts that support that — like a hammock, a soft throw blanket, a portable speaker for soft summer playlists, or even a cute puzzle — are subtle reminders to take it easy. After all, summer is short. Why not make the best of it?
