December 21st, 2021
What to pack for Norway
December 21st, 2021
Written by
Torunn Tronsvang
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Dress for success
In Norway it’s practicality first, fashion week second. A tip for inexperienced foreigners: please do what the Scandinavians do – wear a wool layer against your skin when it is cold. Cotton or synthetic fabrics may keep you warm when you are dry, but it does not help when you get wet, humid, or sweat like a sow in a steam room. Wool does the trick. Locals always tend to have Gore-tex and down jackets handy. Bring good outerwear, in both summer and winter - as it is not unusual for conditions to shift suddenly.
When travelling in Norway, you may on the rare occasion risk being 'Værfast' - directly translated 'Weather-stuck'. Rapid changes in the weather are normal, and something you have to be prepared for as a traveller in the North.
Dressing for success in Norway means being prepared for every surprise that may come your way. This packing guide is intended to help you do just that. First, the basics:
Basic essentials
- Toiletries
- Basic clothing + Summer / Winter outside gear (see below)
- Shoes for every occasion
- Bathing outfit (you never know where you will run into a sauna)
- Small backpack for outdoor activities
- Reusable water bottle - help us keep plastic use down!
- Adapter (Power sockets are of type F, voltage is 230 V and frequency is 50 Hz)
- Camera (A must!)
- Money: The currency in Norway is the Norwegian kroner (NOK) but you don't really need money. Instead, bring credit cards - you can use them practically everywhere
Important
- Passport
- Travel insurance certificate - never leave home without it
- Medicines (if needed)
- Valid Driver’s licence – essential if you are renting a car / driving a motorised vehicle - this includes snow-mobiles!
- Visa (Some nationalities are required to have a visa to visit Norway. Find out here if you need one)
- Up Norway Digital Itinerary (have you remembered to download the app?)
Norway in the summer
Norway in Summer unveils a vibrant tapestry of natural splendour and cultural richness, making it a must-visit destination not only for winter and Northern Lights seekers but also for warmer-weather explorers. As the days lengthen, fjords glisten under the midnight sun, and lush landscapes burst into beautiful greenery. Packing for this season requires a thoughtful selection of essentials. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are key, alongside versatile layers for unpredictable weather. Don't forget sturdy hiking boots for exploring trails and comfortable swimwear for refreshing dips. Norway in summer invites you to embrace the outdoors, whether it's hiking, kayaking, or simply basking in the natural beauty.
Outside summer clothing
- All-weather jacket (wind & waterproof)
- Underwear: wool, part wool or synthetic
- Light sweater/jacket of wool or fleece
- Mountain trousers (water resistant, wind proof)
- Wool socks
- Gloves or mittens
- Cap / hat
- Scarf / Neck warmer
- Mountain/Hiking boots
- Shorts and t-shirt
- Sun glasses
Norway in the winter
Norway experiences cold winters with temperatures often dropping below freezing, especially in the northern regions. It's important to dress in layers to stay warm and comfortable. Here are some clothing items you should consider.
Additional winter clothing
- All-weather trousers (windproof and water-resistant)
- Thick wool sweater
- Snow boots
- Thick mid-layer to keep warm during breaks
For trekkers and campers
If you are going trekking or camping, we recommend you also check out these suggested packing lists from the Norwegian Trekking Association and watch the video:
Don't have the necessary gear and want a sustainable solution?
We are aware that most of our guests do not have a full Bear Grylls style wardrobe and that buying all the equipment for your Norwegian adventure can be expensive. It can also be challenging when it comes to knowing what to buy and which garments are ethically and sustainably produced. That's why we have now set up a collaboration with the Norwegian apparel company Amundsen Sports. Their standards are built upon the heritage of the great Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen, and provide smart, outdoor gear, inspired by Norwegian traditions combined with modern innovation that will last years beyond your Norwegian adventure.
As an Up Norway traveller, you can enjoy a 25% discount on their collection, and even get help from an expert to help you choose the right gear. The clothing can be ordered online and brought to your arrival destination in Norway. We also have partners all over the country who offer clothing and gear for rent should that be your preferred option. So whether you are embarking on a Frozen Family Fairytale, Norway's Arctic Circle Region or your own curated road-trip in the realm of Norwegian folklore we can guide you with all your packing needs.
If you are after an award-winning range of luggage and travel-gear, we have also established a partnership with the B Corp certified Norwegian company Db and can offer our guests 15% on all items within their online store. Db offers a range of backpacks and luggage solutions, from stylish backpacks for a city-break in Bergen to adventure backpacks that will remain comfortable after a long hike in the mountains. We love them!
Luxury lies in the experience of travelling, not in the accessories
Norway is far away and far out, so ‘luxury’ lies in finding a hearty balance of accessibility, simplicity, exclusivity and sustainability, while quality resides in the experience of travelling the land, not in the number of towels offered wherever you stay. When travelling off the beaten track, Norwegians like simple living and travel. They prefer to keep their untouched nature as it is: untouched.
Another factor is how Norway maintains strict policies regarding energy efficiency, and is steadily implementing further enhanced measures. This means that you won’t be provided with an infinite number of small bottles of shampoo and shower gel, but will instead need to make do with a soap dispenser. So, if you need a decent shampoo, body lotion, or other luxury items when travelling the Norwegian countryside, we advise you to bring your favourite. Happy travelling!
Good to Know
Have a look at the Norwegian statistics on consumer goods and services here.
Tipping is not compulsory in Norway, however, it is common to leave a tip of 10% at a bar or restaurant if you are happy with the service. Guides are not expecting a tip, but appreciate a tip if you are happy with their service. It is uncommon to tip taxi drivers or cleaning staff.
Both credit and debit cards are widely accepted. In fact, a lot of establishments are going cashless and prefer credit cards. You do not need to withdraw local currency (NOK) in cash to travel in Norway.
Norwegian kroner (NOK)
Central European Time (CET) and Central European Summer Time (CEST)
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