Practice your nighttime photography at home shooting the stars or the neighborhood streetlights. If you get lucky with the aurora you don't want to be stressing out on a camera. You want to be able to breathe deep and take in the whole experience. Patience and warm cloths help, too. The aurora is not related to air temperature, but clear skies usually mean chilly nights. Dress for success.
Good Luck & Happy Aurora Hunting!
Here is a list of the equipment I use: