David Erixon and Fredrik Vestergård have gone approximately 1300 kilometres on cross country skis through-out the Swedish mountains with one constant goal – to enjoy themselves. Instead of seeking praise for their adventures the melody of their jourey was more about listening to a rippling mountain stream while drinking hot chocolate. When it was possible they stayed in huts (which is provided by STF –  The Swedish Tourist Association) instead of tents, even though they booth really enjoy sleeping in their tent (Akka R/S 3).

David and Fredrik enjoying the sun, David to the right is wearing the Tarfala Jacket

Fredrik is wearing the Tur Jacket and Tur Trousers

Starting off in Grövelsjön mountain station and finishing in Treriksröset located in the far north where the borders of Sweden, Norway and Finland meet. David and Fredrik crossed the Swedish mountain chain and completed approximately 1300 km of cross country skiing.

Even though their goal was to enjoy themselves they admitted that the first few days was quiet tough, but after that the life in the wilderness was great. David and Fredrik both say that the best thing about their adventures was the contrast between the really simple life and some luxury – like a wood fired sauna in the mountains (also provided by STF).

Best tips to enjoy the wilderness
We always strive for three key things – be warm, dry and full! Another important thing is to bring good food – we used a lot of parmesan and sun dried tomatoes. Great coffee is also really important. One thing – that might sound simple – is to all the time be aware of the surroundings, at one point we saw three eagles at the same time.

Fun facts
- Fredrik was really feed up with rosehip soup (they ate it every morning)
- The expedition lasted 63 days
- After every lunch they took a 20 minuets nap
- In total they ate 28 kg chocolate (200 g every day)
- They ate about 5000 kcal/day (a normal person with a sedentary job eats about 2000 kcal/day).
- When they got back they ate way too much, it took about a week to acclimatize.

Favorite gear
It is really important to have a warm reinforcement layer. This protects you from getting frostbite and also helps you mentally– you know that you can get warm at all times. We loved the Thermo 2 Down Jacket which we always used when we stopped for the night.

David and Fredrik really liked the Friluft backpack which is flexible, light and has excellent ventilation.

David and Fredrik in their Thermo 2 Down Jackets

Stay tuned we will later on give you the best gear tips from David and Fredrik. All photos are taken by David Erixon.