In reply to Elliot Quinn:
I’ve ski toured four times around the Kungsleden area (including crossing into the Norwegian hut system which is really nice), and trekked a couple of times (last time a few weeks ago). As said, the routes are generally going to be ok, but stating the obvious clearly depends on conditions. I generally go mid March as it is quieter. But I have seen some thin conditions in mid April, generally around the Kebnekaise hut valley.
I’ve always flown to Kiruna (once to Narvik). Best to get the same airline , SAS or Norwegian, as your luggage the goes straight through (usually Stockholm, a great airport). There is a bus service from the airport to Kiruna centre, and buses are timed to meet (or catch) each flight. There is only one flight at a time, so the airport is really easy! If there are two of you, it’s not much more for a taxi.
ive looked at the overnight train, but I think you’ll find it pricier ( but ‘greener’). But luggage bags are a bit of an issue. You might get luggage lockers at Stockholm and just take your skis and kit ‘to go ‘ . If you do, then you get the train direct to Abisko , where if it’s on time you can ski direct to the first hut Abiskojaure. Otherwise stay a night at the big STF tourist station and set off next morning.
But I prefer getting to Kiruna in one day, stay overnight and leave my bags for my return, staying overnight and fly back next day. I can recommend the Samegard as a nice place with really helpful manager and a good price. To not that the Swedish STF is part of the YHA network, so you get full reciprocal rights as a member of YHA. ( but Not in Norway!). There is a facility (not used) where you can leave bags at Abisko and they will transfer them to Kebnekaise station, for a price! But you still have to get out to Nikkoluokta , 19km, so you might need to take the snowmobile ‘taxi’. Don’t think the luggage service works to Nikkoluokta. Kebnekaise to Nikkoluokta is a nice ski out. Kiruna centre is moving out due to iron ore works, and was a bit quiet , almost run down looking, a few weeks ago. But still worth seeing. Hope you get there, it’s a classic route. I recommend having some spare days, for bad weather but also highly recommend a day to ski towards Nallo hut and back from Salka . Incredibly beautiful valley, likely have it to yourself! Also from Kebnekaise, a trip up to Tarfala hut is definitely worth doing. Can do it there and back in a day, but better to stay at Tarfala for a night in a great setting.
Bill Thomson