best time to visit norway in a motorhome

Campervanning in Norway – Tips, Routes & Destinations 2024

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Touring Norway in a Motorhome & Campervan

A truly beautiful country, Norway is a real bucket list destination. Mountains, glaciers and waterfalls appear around every corner and vast areas of wilderness and national parks wait to be explored. If you love adventure and raw nature, then campervanning in Norway is for you.

One of our favourite European countries for a campervan road trip, driving in Norway means big sweeping roads, exciting mountain passes and regular fjord crossings, as well as plentiful off-grid camping and outdoor activities.

We’ve spent months motorhoming in Norway and our advice and tips for campervanning in Norway come from our own lived experience. We cover driving, budgeting, where to stay overnight and off-grid and wild camping, to motorhome and camper van services and a round-up of the best motorhome destinations. In fact, you’ll find all the information you need for an amazing road trip in Norway!

Norway Motorhome Routes

Getting from the UK to Norway in a campervan is possibly the most challenging part of planning a Norway motorhome trip! There are so many options, but at some point, you’ve got to get your campervan over the water, it’s just a matter of how you do it and how much it costs! These are the best Norway motorhome routes:

The Bridges

This route involves taking the Storebaelt Bridge (Great Belt Bridge) in Denmark en route to Copenhagen and then crossing the Oresund Bridge (of BBC The Bridge fame) from Copenhagen to Malmo in Sweden.

This option gives you the opportunity to road trip Denmark and  see beautiful Copenhagen on the way through and experience both incredible bridges, their views and architecture. But, it’s not cheap and you still have the long six hour drive up the coast of Sweden.

Toll operators in Norway work with the bridge operators to provide discounts if you use electronic tags. Check the Tolls section below to find out more.

Storebaelt Bridge

(2023 prices for a one-way crossing)

• Up to 6m <3500kg = 270 DKK / 192 DKK discounted price
• Over 6m <3500kg = 605 DKK / 575 DKK discounted price
• Under 10m >3500kg = 605 DKK / 575 DKK discounted price
• Over 10m >3500kg = 960 DKK / 912 DKK discounted price

Oresund Bridge

(2024 prices for a one-way crossing)

• Between 6-10m = €119 / €55 discounted price
• Over 10m = €221 / €97.90 discounted price
• Over 6m + trailer = €221 / €97.50 discounted price

Is this your first time visiting Norway? Get all the information you need in our Norway Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

The Ferries

There are so many options here, although sadly no England to Norway ferry these days.

Ferries from Denmark to Norway

Getting a direct ferry to Norway from Denmark avoids the bridges and the long drive up the Swedish coast. Popular ferries from Denmark to Norway are from Frederikshavn to Oslo, Hirtshals to Kristiansand, Larvik, Stavanger and Bergen.

The longer crossings are not prohibitively expensive and sailing to Bergen gets you right into the beautiful western Fjords – balanced against fuel and toll costs, it may be worth considering.

Ferries from Germany to Norway

From Travemunde to the northeast of Hamburg, a nine hour crossing gets you into Malmo, costing at least 50% less than taking the bridge’s route, and you can stop and see Hamburg on the way!

You still have the six hour drive up through Gothenburg to Oslo and will miss the wonders of Copenhagen, but for those on a budget, this is a great option.  

Ferries from the Netherlands to Norway

Holland Norway Lines has introduced a new route from Eemshaven in the north of the Netherlands to Kristiansand. With three 18 hour crossings a week each way, you’ll arrive at 9am the next day feeling refreshed and ready to drive in whichever direction takes your fancy.

This cuts around 1000km of driving from the route and is a great option if you are planning to visit the western fjords and southern Norway, or if you’re planning to sail from the UK to the Netherlands.

We recommend finding the best deals and crossings with Ferryhopper , who make it easier to compare timings, routes and costs in one place.

The Alternative Campervan Route to Norway

If you have a lot of time, a ‘reverse’ route through Scandinavia could work. What we mean by this is to not follow the usual routes into Norway which most people take because they are time-limited, but take a ferry from Tallinn in Estonia to Helsinki in Finland, or Stockholm in Sweden, and then drive north and east until you get into Norway.

It’s a bit more complicated than that but you get the idea. There are worse things than travelling around Scandinavia in a campervan!

Looking for more driving routes to Norway? Our driving from the United Kingdom to Norway guide has eight options for getting to Norway , so you can find the perfect route.

Motorhome & Campervan Rental Norway

Campervan & motorhome rental norway.

Flying and hiring a motorhome is the best way to tour Norway if you don’t own one. Our recommended Norway campervan rental company is Motorhome Republic , which has depots in Oslo, Bergen, Tromsø and many other major Norwegian cities – perfect starting points to see all the best bits as you road trip Norway .

An aggregate motorhome and campervan booking site,  Motorhome Republic  pull together all the best deals from a number of rental companies, like Indie Campers, Campervan Norway, Arctic Camper and Cabin Campers to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English-speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

You can also hire a motorhome in the UK and drive it across to Norway. Most hire companies allow their motorhome rentals to be taken overseas, including our recommended rental company, Spaceship Rentals . With a depot in London, top-notch customer service and all the equipment you need for an easy holiday, Spaceship offers the best deals for Europe.

Best Time to Motorhome in Norway

October to april.

Can you take a campervan to Norway in winter? Absolutely you can but it will be cold wherever you go, and there’s likely to be snow… possibly quite a lot of snow, although the Scandinavians are really good at managing adverse weather conditions, so main roads do stay open.

November, December and January are dark months in the north of the country, and from November 27th until 15th January the polar night occurs when night-time lasts for 24 hours. Outside of these times, daylight hours are very short with maybe only a few hours of light.

Many campsites will close in winter, but if you’re travelling to Norway for winter sports or to see the Northern Lights, this is the perfect time.

It’s a good idea to make sure you’re well prepared with adequate heating and power in your van, and snow chains or tyres for when conditions require them. You’ll also need lots of warm clothing and thermal layers to keep you warm!

May to September

Campervanning Norway in the summer means the weather will be kinder, with July and August being the warmest months. Fjord swimming without a wetsuit is possible in the peak season and you’ll be comfortable during the day in shorts and a t-shirt. It can still be chilly in the evenings for Arctic campers, where the weather is also more unpredictable.

Between the end of May and end of July, you’ll experience the midnight sun phenomenon in the far north of Norway, when the sun remains visible at the local midnight and moves across the horizon from left to right.

Norway’s Borders

Norway is not a member state of the European Union. However, it is associated with the Union through its membership of the European Economic Area (EEA) and is an associate member of the Schengen Area, meaning you must include Norway in your 90 in 180 days calculation. 

Norway has open borders with Sweden and Finland, however, they still practice random border checks at some popular road crossings. You will find a ‘hard’ border if you arrive in Norway by ferry, and will need to complete a customs declaration form before you enter the country.

Many motorhomers travelling north through Sweden from the ferry will cross the border at Svinesund on the E6, where there is a permanent customs post. There is often queueing traffic to cross, although not many vehicles are actually stopped or searched.

The allowance for alcohol is small (1L of spirits over 22% volume, 1.5L wine less than 22% volume and 2L of beer up to 4.7% volume) and given the cost of buying booze in Norway, it’s tempting to stock up at the large supermarket in Sweden just before the Norwegian border. If you do get caught carrying more than your allowance, the fines can be large. 

Motorhome Norway & Brexit

Although the UK left the EU at the beginning of 2020, because the pandemic came swiftly on its heels, many of us are still realising the repercussions and getting used to how it affects travelling in a motorhome. You can find out all the details you need in our guide to motorhoming in Europe after Brexit . In the meantime, here are a few frequently asked questions and answers;

Do I need a visa for Europe?

Nothing changes with your passport, but from 2025, the EU will introduce the  ETIAS  (European Travel Information and Authorisation System), which will be an additional entry requirement for visa-exempt travellers and will involve the traveller registering their details online before travelling, mainly for security purposes.

How long can I stay in Europe?

UK citizens can only stay in the Schengen Area (a zone in Europe where countries have no internal borders and allow the free and unrestricted movement of people) for  90 days in every 180 days  in the Schengen Area. 

The 90 in 180 day rule works on a rolling basis and it can be difficult to work out whether you are within the rules or not, especially if you have visited the Schengen area on several occasions in the preceding 180 days. Use a  Schengen calculator  to ensure that you stick to the right number of days and stay within the rules.

What food can I take in my motorhome to Norway?

The European Commission says the following:

• Travellers are not allowed to bring in  meat ,  milk or their products .
• There is an exemption for  powdered infant milk, infant food, and special foods or special pet feed  required for medical reasons if weighing less than 2kg and provided that: such products do not require refrigeration before opening, that they are packaged proprietary brand products for direct sale to the final consumer, and the packaging is unbroken unless in current use.
• For  fishery products  (including fish and certain shellfish such as prawns, lobsters, dead mussels and dead oysters), travellers are allowed to bring in up to 20kg or the weight of one fish if this is higher.
• For  other animal products , such as honey, live oysters, live mussels and snails, travellers are allowed to bring in up to 2kg.

Can I use my mobile data in Norway?

It very much depends on who your mobile phone contract is with and when you started the contract. All UK providers now limit data usage in the EU in some way or another, and it’s best to check with your provider to make sure you don’t run up a big bill. You can find lots of information in our guide to the best SIM cards in Europe , especially if you’re planning to be away for more than a few weeks.

We have been using and recommend ConnectPls for cloud SIM connectivity in the UK and Europe. You can choose from unlimited data packs to just single days, depending on your needs. The device is no larger than a slimline smartphone, connects with up to ten devices, is charged easily with a USB and can be delivered within a few days of ordering. Use the code ‘thegapdecaders’ at checkout to get 50% off in the first month!

Can I take a pet to Norway in my motorhome?

Yes, you can take dogs, cats and ferrets to Norway. You’ll need to book a pet-friendly cabin or kennels on the ferry or travel via the tunnel from the UK. Your pet will need a microchip, a valid rabies vaccination and an animal health certificate (AHC).

When pets are travelling to Norway from countries in the EU/EEA (such as Germany or Denmark) the animal and necessary documentation must be presented to Norwegian Customs for checking. Walk or drive through the red zone in the Customs area to present your paperwork and pet.

When travelling to Norway from Sweden, the animal and documentation need not be shown to the Norwegian Customs if the animal has been kept legally in Sweden and meets all requirements for entry.

It can take some time to get all the documents together and the vaccines organised, so make sure you start the process well in advance.

More Norway campervan travel advice and guides;

• Tips for Campervan Rental and Motorhome Hire Norway (and the rest of Europe!)
• Europe Motorhome Touring Your Complete Guide
• The Best European Campsites – For Camper, By Campers
• Europe Motorhome Holidays – Ideas & Destinations
• 29 of the Best Van Apps – Free & Downloadable Now!

Is Norway Expensive to Visit?

Why is Norway so expensive? Norwegians enjoy a very high standard of living and are generally paid well, which in turn pushes up prices. There is no escaping that for foreigners, this is an expensive country and travelling in a campervan in Norway requires careful planning. Follow our Norway advice and travel tips to budget as effectively as possible.

Norway Prices & Tips

• Norway does not use the Euro but maintains its own currency, the Norwegian Krone, shown as NKR.
• Norway’s camping prices are similar to the rest of Europe in summer, although cheaper than the super-tourist areas of the Mediterranean, for example. We paid anywhere between NKR250-400 a night, including electricity. You normally have to pay extra for a hot shower, typically NKR30-40 for five minutes. Aires will cost around NKR130-200 a night.
• Fuel costs are similar or slightly higher than the UK, but considerably cheaper than France or Italy. Norway is regularly in the top ten most expensive countries in the world for both petrol and diesel. You can check global fuel prices here .
• Alcohol is really expensive. A beer, cider or glass of wine in a restaurant will cost between NKR90-120. In a  Vinmonopolet (government-owned alcoholic beverage retailer and the only company allowed to sell beverages containing an alcohol content higher than 4.75% in Norway) you will pay around NKR180 for a bottle of wine and NKR70 for beer and cider. Spirits cost considerably more, so we just didn’t drink them and enjoyed happy travels anyway!
• Norway food and drink prices vary – try to shop in the Spar or Co-op. There is no Lidl or Aldi, or their equivalent, in Norway (Lidl opened around six years ago, lasted two years and shut up shop!). Some food prices, like tinned and dried goods, are similar to the UK but fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, cheese and US products such as Coca-Cola are expensive in comparison. Local produce like salmon and goat’s cheese is expensive in tourist areas. 
• Eating out is costly. We ate out a few times and on one occasion paid NKR700 for two pizzas, burger and chips, two beers and a coke – that’s a €65 fast food dinner!
• Activities are about 20% more expensive per person than in the UK. There are lots and lots of free hiking and cycling routes and swimming opportunities wherever you go to help you save money. 
• Norway touring toll and ferry costs are quite high but it is almost impossible to avoid them! You can go onto the  AutoPass  website and attempt to calculate your road trip route in Norway but I wish you luck, it defeated us!
• If you can avoid the high season in mid-June to mid-August, some things like activities, motorhome rentals and campsites may be cheaper.

Average Cost of a Trip to Norway

It is impossible to say what the average cost of a trip to Norway is. There are so many variables such as length of trip, size of your campervan or motorhome, how you like to camp and which route you will take to Norway. 

How expensive is Norway compared to UK? Our experience suggests that the cost of visiting Norway is around a third more expensive than the UK or France, with our average daily spending money in Norway coming in at €65 a day. 

Yep, it’s expensive to road trip Norway, but budget carefully and it’s no more expensive than France or Switzerland.

Documents You Need to Travel in Norway

• You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from Norway.
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle. Update August 2021 – you no longer require a green card to prove you have vehicle insurance cover when travelling in Norway.
• Your UK licence allows you to drive in all EU countries. If you only have a paper driving licence or a licence issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man then you will need an  International Driving Permit .
• Breakdown cover documentation (not compulsory).
• Vehicle V5 logbook or vehicle registration document (which must show your correct address).
• Trailer certification if you are towing.
• Personal travel and medical insurance. The UK EHIC and  GHIC  card cannot be used in Norway.

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when motorhoming Norway. We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices and excellent service.

Motorhome Driving in Norway

Driving in Norway is a real pleasure. Norwegian drivers are usually disciplined and calm, happy to give way and wait where necessary. The road network is well maintained, even on smaller ‘B’ type roads, and often we drove long distances without seeing other vehicles, although expect roads around popular tourist attractions to be busy.

Western Norway is also home to an immense network of road tunnels which have mostly replaced the old fjord-side single-track narrow roads. These older Norwegian roads can be a bit narrow and tight so drive with caution, especially if you’re in a new motorhome, as you will meet lots of other large oncoming traffic.

Norway’s tunnels are legendary – well-lit, beautifully sealed and some even have roundabouts in them! Norway is also home to the Laerdal Tunnel, or Lærdalstunnelen , at 15 miles it’s the longest road tunnel in the world!

Do not underestimate how difficult and time-consuming it is to travel around Norway in a campervan, especially if you want to go north enough to see the Aurora Borealis or enter the Arctic Circle. It takes a whopping 30 hours of solid driving from the Lofoten Islands to Oslo for example .  

One thing every road-tripper we talked to said was that they had not given themselves enough time to explore the country fully. Do your research and plan carefully, it will always take longer than you think.

Motorhome Speed Limits in Norway

Always observe the speed limits when  campervanning in Europe . There are speed cameras just as in the UK, and the Norwegian authorities are pretty vigorous in their pursuit of people caught speeding and the non-payment of fines. This has not changed since Brexit as the information-sharing agreement with the DVLA continues.

Motorhomes < 3,500 kg

• Residential areas: 30 km/h
• Other built-up areas: 50 km/h
• Rural roads: 80 km/h
• Motorways: 100 km/h

Motorhomes > 3,500 kg

• Motorways: 80 km/h

Norway Rules of the Road

• A UK and EEA licence allows you to drive in Norway. If you only have a paper driving licence or a licence issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man then you will need an  International Driving Permit .
• If your driving licence does not have a photo, is written in an alphabet other than the Latin alphabet, such as Arabic, Cyrillic or Japanese, or the categories on your driving licence are different from the international categories pursuant to the Geneva or Vienna Convention, then you will need an IDP. You can find out more here .
• From 28th September 2021, UK registered vehicles will have to display a UK sticker on the rear of your vehicle, instead of a GB sticker, unless you have a new style UK numberplate which displays the Union Jack flag. All vehicles are required to display their county identifier.
• Your headlights must be adapted for driving on the right.
• You must drive with the low beam lights on all year long, even in the midnight sun season.
• You must carry a warning triangle and a reflective jacket when you’re taking a road trip in Norway, the latter is not compulsory but highly recommended.
• It is recommended that you carry spare bulbs for your motorhome or campervan’s external lights, a fire extinguisher and a first-aid kit.
• If you are motorhome touring in Norway in the winter you will need to use snow chains or winter tyres if there is snow or ice on the roads. You may be asked to purchase a set if you cannot evidence to the border police that you have them. Vehicles over 3.5t must use snow chains. For more information about driving requirements for winter tyres and snow chains in Norway,  click here .
• Motorhomes over 3,500kg and vehicles towing caravans or trailers must not exceed 80km/h regardless of the local limit. If the caravan or trailer is not equipped with brakes, the maximum speed is 60km/h.
• It may seem obvious and apologies if you know this, just doing my bit to keep you safe!! Brakes may overheat on long downhill stretches – to avoid this, drive in low gear. Eventual braking will require less force and brakes will stay cool.
• When driving uphill, watch the motorhome’s temperature gauge to avoid engine overheating in time. You will go up and down a lot of mountains, especially if you take on the Trollstigen road, one of Norway’s best driving roads.

Road Tolls in Norway

There is a sophisticated and comprehensive toll system in Norway. You will know you’re on a toll road by the signage of a camera and wifi, but it’s safe to assume if you’re on a major main road, it will be a toll road.

Now it starts to get complicated! The system is not straightforward but this is what you need to do in advance of touring Norway by motorhome or campervan:

• Register your campervan or motorhome for electronic tolls with one of the AutoPASS-authorised providers. Head to the section entitled ‘register a payment account for your foreign vehicle’. Leave plenty of time for this step, so your electronic toll tag can arrive in the post.
• Flyt is one of the user-friendly options on the list and we would recommend them. Their tag covers you for toll roads, bridges, tunnels and some fjord ferries in Norway and you are invoiced by email monthly in arrears.
• If you want an electronic tag to cover you for Sweden and Denmark as well, EasyGo operates this scheme and using it gives a discount on both the Strebaelt and Oresund Bridges when linked up with a BroPas account. EasyGo doesn’t actually issue the tags themselves, you need to use one of their operators such as the Oresund Consortium . We would suggest that the EasyGo tag is only worth doing if you’re planning to cross to Norway over the Danish bridges and/or travel in Sweden.
• If you choose not to have the tag (or the discounts), you only need to register with Epass24 who manage billing and collects monies on behalf of AutoPASS, who is the toll system operator (until April 2021, the collector was Euro Parking Collection, so if you registered with them previously, you’ll need to do so again with the new provider). Once registered, you can choose to get your invoice monthly by email and pay with a credit card or make payments via a linked credit card as you go.

It is not compulsory for you to have the electronic toll tag, even if you are over 3.5t – this rule is for commercial vehicles only. But, the tag does provide a 20% discount on the car rate if you decide to have one. Without the tag, the rate that motorhomes over 3,500kg are charged is typically 2-4 times the car rate.

If you don’t register, your license plate will be identified via ANPR and you’ll receive a bill in the post from Epass24 with an assumed class and emissions category, and a charge for not registering. Even though the UK is no longer a part of the EU, information-sharing agreements with the DVLA remain in place and Norway is pretty ruthless about tracking down no-toll payers.  

There is no manual way of paying tolls whilst travelling Norway, other than the Alesund Tunnel.

Low Emission Zones

There is a combined congestion and low emission zone in Oslo called the  Oslo Charging Scheme . The cost of entering the LEZ is calculated within the toll charges for driving in Oslo and is dependent on the Euro standard and fuel type. No sticker or vignette is required – AutoPASS will collect the toll along with your other tolls.

Oslo also operates emergency measures and closes to diesel traffic when emissions are high. 24 hours’ notice is given of any closure, you can  check here  for updates and current status.

Elsewhere in Norway, there are low emission zones in Bergen and Kristiansand, operated under the Bergen Charging Scheme and Kristiansand Charging Scheme . All three LEZ will be charged using the AutoPASS system.

But who wants to drive into a capital city in a motorhome or campervan anyway? Park or camp outside and use the excellent public transport system to get into the city centre. 

Fjord Ferries

From time to time, you will need to take a car ferry across a fjord. This is not a fjord cruise, but a quick crossing designed to get you from one place to the other as fast as possible, a bit like public transport.

It is not complicated, the road stops with no option to take another route and there is a ramp for a ferry there. Google Maps or your sat nav will know this and direct you accordingly.

There are generally two car ferries passing each other in the middle, and the operation of getting vehicles on and off is pretty slick.

Usually, the ticket seller will come to your van with a mobile card device and dispenser. Expect to pay around NKR120 for every ten minutes of ferry time in a class 2 campervan or motorhome, or use your AutoPass electronic toll tag to pay.

We loved this part of touring in Norway by campervan, it somehow felt more exciting than driving the M25!

Campervanning in Norway FAQs

Can i park a campervan anywhere in norway.

You can park a motorhome or campervan on the street or in a car park in Norway. You can also stay the night on private property if you have permission from the owner. The  allemannsrett  (all men’s rights) Norwegian law means that you can camp anywhere in Norway where the land is not owned or cultivated or where there is no signage forbidding it.  

How do I get from UK to Norway by motorhome?

You can get from the UK to Norway in a campervan or motorhome by crossing the English Channel to the continent, driving north into Denmark and crossing the Storebaelt Bridge and Oresund Bridge to Sweden before driving into Norway, or by taking a ferry to Norway from Germany, Denmark or the Netherlands. There is no direct ferry from the UK to Norway.

Is it easy to campervan in Norway?

Yes! Norway is a hospitable nation and welcomes van lifers who want to explore the diverse and stunning landscapes of the country. It may cost a little more than van life in Spain , for example, but it’s a real bucket list destination and well worth the effort and cost.

Is it safe to wild camp in Norway?

Absolutely. We have visited Norway twice in a motorhome, for several months each time. We usually spend about 80% of our time camping off-grid and Norway was no different. We loved the friendly people and the huge open spaces and never felt unsafe wild camping in Norway.

Campervan Services in Norway

Motorhome service points are pretty widespread and usually free although you might need a coin or two for a CamperClean automatic toilet cassette emptying machine if there is no other option.

You’ll often see water and waste services in petrol stations, and Park4Night  is an excellent way to find campervan and motorhome services as you travel Norway. You can also find information on BobilVerden and BobilPlassen websites.

Camping in Norway

Norway is very tolerant of campervan visitors and although numbers have increased exponentially over the past five years, we felt welcomed wherever we went.

You’ll be able to find camping outside all the major cities and near all the  top places to visit in Norway .

Wild or Free Camping in Norway

The  allemannsrett  (all men’s rights) Norwegian law was enshrined a long time before travelling in campers became such a popular way to see the country, but the spirit of the law stands and the best part is that it seems to cover campervans and motorhomes.

The gist is that you can practice off-grid camping in Norway where the land is not owned or cultivated or where there is no signage forbidding it.  

Follow the usual free and  wild camping good practice and don’t overstay your welcome – we would suggest one day and certainly no more than 48 hours in the same spot. Use  Park4Night  to find wild camping spots and best places for free overnight parking.

Always follow the ‘leave no trace’ principle, take your rubbish, black and grey waste with you or dispose of it in the proper place. 

Campsites in Norway

There is a good network of campsites for camper vans and campers with tents in Norway, although most cannot be booked and seem much more transient than those on the continent.

All have small sleeping huts or cabins to rent for hikers and offer kitchen facilities where groups of people can cook and eat together. This works well for those in touring cars with a rooftop tent or with a mini camper, where cooking facilities are limited. Visit Norway has a great blog post on the  top ten motorhome and campervan sites in Norway  which you may find helpful.

Norway camping sites don’t usually have bars or restaurants and people tend to retire early and rise early. Expect to pay between NKR250-400 a night, including electricity. There are normally extra charges for a hot shower, typically NKR50-60 for five minutes.  

Find motorhome sites Norway with Eurocampings , who have over 200 campsites across Norway, perfect for campervans and motorhomes. Some campsites are more informal than others and it’s not always possible to book overnight, but campervanners tend not to stay for long periods and pitches become available daily.

Campsites you find on Eurocampings will also accept CampingCard ACSI, which gives over 60% discount on Norwegian campsites outside of high season.

Motorhome Aires Norway

There are also good camping aires with motorhome and campervan service points across Norway, where you can find overnight motorhome parking and services like fresh water and cassette emptying.

Use  Park4Night  or  BobilPlassen  ( bobil  means motorhome in Norwegian) for up-to-date information about locations of rest areas and facilities. 

Similar to France Passion, which provides free campervan stops in France, Nortrip connects motorhome travellers who want to experience authentic Norway with hosts that have something special to offer like local farms, dairies, microbreweries, musuems, cideries and mountain shielings (smallholdings).

A physical book and an app, the Nortrip scheme allows members to stay on their hosts land overnight. Some hosts offer facilities, but not all do, and there is no obligation to buy.

For those travelling through Denmark to Norway, you’ll be please to know there is a similar scheme, called Pintrip .

Norway Campervan Essentials

Motorhome & Campervan Destinations in Norway

Wherever you go on your Norway campervan trip you’ll be wowed by the starkly beautiful landscape, with glistening deep blue fjords, dramatic mountains, ancient glaciers and waterfalls everywhere you look. If you can’t decide where to go, check out our three ready-made Norway road trip itineraries , for the best campervanning in Norway!

If you like being active…

If you’ve ever looked at those amazing images of people perched on tongues of rock, practising yoga on sheer cliffs or star-jumping off precipitously balanced boulders whilst gazing out over sparkling blue fjords, these three great hikes are for you!

Preikestolen

Pulpit Rock, or Preikestolen , is an easy 7.6km hike with a small elevation gain of 334 meters, and can be done in half a day with an early start. The best option is to begin the hike at the trailhead in Preikestolenhytta where you can  park easily , or  camp nearby .

There are zero facilities on the Pulpit Rock hike, so make sure to go prepared and take additional clothing as the weather in the fjords can be unpredictable.

Kjeragbolten

From Preikestolen, you can take the Lysebotn-Forsand car ferry along the Lysefjorden for the next stop, the Kjeragbolten hike. Kjeragbolten is a giant boulder wedged in a crevasse at 1084m on Mount Kjerag, the highest peak in the Lysefjorden. You can also base jump and climb here.

The hike to Kjeragbolten is around 11km long with 800m of altitude gain, and the round trip takes about seven to ten hours depending on your fitness and experience. You need to be in good physical shape and have some hiking experience before attempting this route.

The starting point is at the parking lot at Oygardstol , where there is also drinking water available. Just getting there involves a pretty spectacular drive up the Fv500 with hairpin bends aplenty! If you want to stay close overnight, try this wild camping spot further up the hill.

Odda is a great place to base-camp for the infamous Trolltunga hike through the glorious Folgefonna National Park. The most challenging of these three famous Norway hikes, the route is 20km across mostly flat terrain, but the path can be tricky underfoot and the weather changeable. 

Hiking Trolltunga  is not for the faint-hearted or unprepared but is an absolute must-do on your Norwegian campervan road trip.

RELATED POST: Norway Road Trip Itinerary – Three Unmissable Routes

Popular with motorhomes and road trippers, Flam is a small village right at the top of the beautiful Aurlandsfjord.

Surrounded by towering mountains, waterfalls, fjords and rushing rivers, this is a playground for hikers, water sports enthusiasts and mountain bikers, and is also home to the spectacular Flamsbana railway, considered one of the most scenic train rides in the world. Taking the railway to Myrdal and cycling back to Flam on the Rallar Road is a unique experience and sure to be a highlight of your stay.

From Flam you can follow the magnificent Sognefjord east to the stunning Jotunheimen National Park and into the ‘Giant’s Home’, a fitting name for this vast and soaring place where there are over 250 mountain peaks of almost 2000m high, and some of Norway’s very best scenery.

RELATED POST: Flåm Norway: Visitor Guide & Tips

Loen is where you’ll find the amazing skylift which takes you to the top of Mount Hoven for spectacular views of the blue-white Jostedal glacier. If you prefer to get to the top under your own steam, take the via Ferrata up and the zip-line down.

If sea-level activity is more your thing then head for the very Instagrammable, but glacial, Lake Lovatnet. Take a boat trip or go swimming and kayaking in the summer months, before stopping at  Sande Camping , possibly the best motorhome campsite in Norway.

At Hellesylt, take the ferry through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Geirangerfjord to the town of Geiranger itself. Expect the town and ferry to be busy, this area is one of the top road trip destinations in Norway.

As you leave Geiranger for Eidsdal and wind your way up the steepest section of route 63, along its eleven switchbacks hanging 700m above the fjord below, you’ll understand why this scenic drive is called ‘the Eagle Road’. 

At the highest bend is the most breathtaking view over beautiful Geirangerfjord, and the location of the must-watch-before-you-go movie, The Wave .

Lofoten Islands

One of the most stunning areas of Norway, the Lofoten Islands are where dramatic mountains meet brilliantly white sandy beaches, picture-perfect fishing villages of cute wooden houses dot the coastlines, and hiking trails snake their way through some of the most magnificent landscapes in Europe.

Are you new to motorhoming? Our motorhome beginners resources have everything you need from helpful printable motorhome checklists and easy guides to taking your first motorhome trip . Or check out our motorhome beginners e-book and find all our resources and guides in one place!

If you’re all about the driving…

Trollstigen mountain road.

The RV63 Trollstigen Mountain Road is one of the best driving roads in Europe . Incredibly beautiful, this road was opened in 1936 and includes eleven hairpin bends and a 9% incline.

Without a doubt, it’s one of the most dramatic and scenic roads in Norway. Stop at the Ornesvingen viewing point for incredible vistas, and again at the top to admire the Stigfossen waterfall before heading on to stunning Geraingerfjord, one of Norway’s eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Atlantic Ocean Road

A fantastic visual experience, Norway’s Atlantic Ocean Road snakes for around 30km across seven islands along the west coast like a silver ribbon dancing in the sunlight.

Award-winning, this road is a designated Cultural Heritage Site, a National Tourist Route, and has been recognized as the Norwegian Construction of the Century.

RELATED POST: Atlantic Road Norway: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!

Kystriksveien Coastal Route

If you’re heading to northern Norway, there are two different ways to get there. You can take the E6 Arctic Highway all the way or around 80km north of Trondheim.

But we think a far better way is to pick up the FV17 just after Steinkjer and take in the glorious landscape and coastal views from the magnificent Kystriksveien Coastal Route, one of Norway’s most scenic road trips and an official Norwegian scenic route.

Taking this Atlantic road route will add quite a few kilometres, two days and six fjord ferries to your journey, but the detour will be so worth it! You’ll cross into the Arctic Circle at 66 degrees, on the boat between Kilborghavn and Jektvik.

Norway Travel Inspiration

Atlantic Road Norway: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!

Best One Day Oslo Itinerary + Map, Guide & Tips

Driving to norway from uk – routes & tips.

Driving in Norway – All You Need to Know

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Norway Road Trip – Three Unmissable Routes

Norwegian life.

Norway is a vast country with only five million inhabitants, shaped by its Viking history, geography and unique farming culture, which is still alive and kicking today.

Things to Know About Norway

• There are a lot of vans in Norway from many different EU countries; we were surprised by how many.  But, this is a huge country and there is plenty of room for everyone, especially when you get off the beaten track, or head further north, whether you’re going hiking in Tromso or chasing the northern lights.
• Norwegian (and in fact most Scandinavian) society is based on Janteloven ( the law of Jante) which at its simplest describes the way that all Norwegians behave; putting society ahead of the individual, practising humility, equality, respect, and simplicity. Wealth is not flaunted, people don’t criticise others, and egalitarianism is key. This is not an actual law but describes how people should behave in society; it helped us as visitors to understand Norwegian culture and behaviour.
• Almost all Norwegians speak English at an intermediate level unless they are older and live rurally. 
• Norwegians work to live; Koselig  has no direct translation but influences Norwegian behaviour at weekends and holidays. This post by our friends at the  Life In Norway  blog explains the concept visually.
• Norway is on the verge of becoming a truly cashless society and are streets ahead of many other EEA countries. It is completely normal to pay for a €3 iskrem using a card or ApplePay.
• Recycling is important here; a pant (pledge) is charged on all bottles.   You can return the bottles to the panteroom to get your deposit back or press a button and give your deposit to charity.
• Norwegian people like their personal space. They will not willingly sit next to a stranger on the train or bus and prefer not to stand too close to others in queues. This is because there are so few Norwegian people in their huge country that they are used to having lots of room to move!
• Most grocery shops will be closed on Sundays. Garages will sell basic groceries but at inflated prices so better to be prepared and shop on Saturday.
• Alcohol in Norway is sold mainly by the state. Beer can be found in most shops but is only sold before 8pm on weekdays or 6pm on Saturdays and not on Sundays. For wine, spirits or stronger beer, you must visit one of the Vinmonopolet known to locals as pole,  found in most large cities and towns. Tax Is levelled on all alcohol with more than 0.7% by volume of alcohol and is pretty hefty, making booze really expensive. 

Food & Eating Out in Norway

Norwegian food can be excellent. Abundant seafood, local specialities such as reindeer, and a growing trend towards using hyperlocal, seasonal ingredients are undoubtedly the highlights.

• Norway loves meat; reinsdyrstek (reindeer) should be sampled if you are a meat eater and should be eaten on the rare side for the best flavour. Beef, lamb and venison are also popular and cheaper than reindeer.
• Vegetarian food is becoming more and more popular and we found multiple options of plant-based dishes on most menus.
• Salmon is the most eaten fish; farmed is much, much cheaper than wild salmon and often tastes just as good.
• You will also come across lots of raw, salted, dried and cured fish… it’s definitely an acquired taste but necessary when fishing is difficult as all the fjords are frozen.
• Potatoes are served with almost every dish, especially if you are eating out in a rural town or traditional restaurant.  
• Berries are delicious in Norway, they take longer to ripen and are thus more juicy and bursting with flavour. The raspberries are the largest and best we’ve ever eaten, expect to pay around NKR350-450 for a punnet. 
• Other berries include strawberries, blackcurrants, red currants, blueberries (sometimes called huckleberries), which grow on open uplands; blue, swamp-loving bilberries; red high-bush and low-bush cranberries and the famous  moltebær (cloudberries) which are highly prized and considered a delicacy. They grow one per stalk on open swampy ground and in Norway cloudberry patches are zealously guarded. Cloudberry jam is amazing with brown goat’s cheese (yes brown!) and fresh or sour cream on a fluffy pancake!!
• Brown goat’s cheese or brunost is a Norwegian staple and is eaten at all meals. It has a distinctive caramelised flavour and delicious taste which is rich and creamy – you should definitely try it!
• Breakfast in Norway is coffee, some sort of crisp bread (often the dieter’s favourite, Ryevita) with cucumber and tomatoes and maybe a boiled egg or pickled herring. You may find cafe’s selling toast or croissants and pastries in larger towns.
• Lunch is an open sandwich with meat, fish or eggs, and dinner is usually the hot meal of the day, served between 4pm and 6pm in the winter months, and considerably later in the summer. 
• We would say to avoid  torsketunger (cod’s tongues) and rakfisk (fermented trout) unless you are a particularly hardy type with the constitution of an ox!!
• If you get the opportunity, try the national spirit akevitt (aquavit), a potent dose of Norwegian culture made from potatoes and caraway liquor. Although caraway is an essential ingredient, various modern distilleries augment the spicy flavour with any combination of orange, coriander, anise, fennel, sugar and salt. The confection is aged for three to five years in 500 litre oak barrels that have previously been used to age sherry. Just go slow and don’t drive afterwards!

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The Smooth Escape

Nature & adventure travel blog

Exploring Norway by campervan: Everything you need to know

Driving through awe-inspiring landscapes, watching the Midnight Sun, falling asleep next to magnificent fjords and going for invigorating morning dips in the cold sea – this is what you can expect when exploring Norway by campervan.

There’s no doubt that one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Norway is to take a road trip through the country. With its jaw-dropping scenery, good roads and plentiful camping opportunities, Norway is a dream destination for motorhome and campervan travel.

What I love most about traveling with a campervan in Norway is the freedom it gives you. You can move at your own pace and have the flexibility to sleep wherever you want – whether it’s next to a beautiful sandy beach, a tranquil lake or a mountain. 

I took a 12-day campervan road trip through Northern Norway, discovering the natural wonders of Senja and the Lofoten Islands, and it was even more amazing than I ever imagined. These are the kind of places that make you wonder ‘How is this even real!?’.

In this guide, I’m sharing with you my best advice and tips for touring Norway by campervan, including driving tips, costs, where to go, where to stay overnight, the best time to visit, which campervan to rent and more.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase.

Renting a campervan in Norway

Some important factors to consider when renting a campervan in Norway are the size of the van, the number of seats you need and which amenities you want to have.

Norway has many narrow roads, especially in the areas around the fjords and mountains. It’s much easier to drive a smaller campervan on these roads rather than a large bulky motorhome or a caravan. 

With that said, we did see lots of motorhomes on our Norway road trip, so it’s certainly possible to get around with one if that’s what you prefer. You just need to be extra careful on those narrow roads and you might have a bit harder time finding parking.

Tip: If you’re planning to travel to Norway in the summer, which is the peak tourism season, book your campervan well in advance.

Our Wecamp van

We rented our campervan from a small local company called Wecamp and couldn’t have been happier with our experience. Our van was a converted Volkswagen Crafter with an automatic transmission. It was the perfect size for us and very comfortable to drive.

The main reason we decided to rent a campervan from Wecamp though was the beautiful interior of their vans. All Wecamp vans have bright wooden paneling which gives them such a cozy look. It feels like you’re inside a little cabin!

On top of that, their vans come with everything you need for your Norway road trip: a large comfortable bed, kitchen equipment, a tap, a heater, a fridge, camping furniture, power outlets and even a portable toilet. Another great thing about renting from Wecamp is that they offer unlimited kilometers so you won’t have to worry about any extra charges for driving long distances.

Take a look at Wecamp to see the prices and availability of their vans and remember to mention that you heard about them from me (The Smooth Escape) when making a booking!

Norway campervan rental cost

The cost of campervan rental in Norway depends on the time of the year, the type of van or motorhome you want to rent and what’s included.

In general, the prices range from 150 EUR/night for a very basic camper in the low season to 300 EUR/night for a bigger camper in the high season. The van we rented was about 200 EUR/night.

With some companies, you have to pay extra for things like pillows, duvets and sheets, camping furniture, cleaning and extra kilometers.

Documents for campervan hire in Norway

You must have a valid passport and a driving license to rent a van in Norway. You can use your valid driving license from any country for up to three months in Norway.

However, in some cases , an international driving permit is required as a supplement to your driving license – for example, if your driving license doesn’t have a photo or if the information on your license is written in an alphabet other than the Latin alphabet.

Campervan itinerary

One of the most exciting parts about planning your campervan road trip in Norway is deciding on the route you will take!

It might seem like an obvious choice to fly to Oslo (Norway’s capital) and start your campervan itinerary there. However, that’s not where you’ll find the spectacular nature of Norway.

If you want to cut down on some of the driving time, it’s worth taking a look at flights to Bergen, Ålesund or one of the airports near the Lofoten Islands (Tromsø, Bodø, Narvik) and renting a campervan there. These places are much closer to the stunning fjords and mountains of Norway. 

For instance, the drive from Oslo in the south to the Lofoten Islands in the north can easily take more than 20 hours. Unless you have ample time to spend in Norway, it would be a better idea to fly up there instead.

In our case, we flew to Tromsø in Northern Norway and rented our campervan there. We drove first to Senja Island and then to the Lofoten Islands and were absolutely astonished by the beauty of the landscapes in both of these places.

Be sure to check out my Lofoten Islands itinerary to get an idea of what to do and see in this amazing corner of Norway.

Tip: For more inspiration for planning your Norway itinerary, check out the Norwegian Scenic Routes . These are 18 selected roads which take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the country.

Here’s a little video of our campervan trip in Norway:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marjut | travel, adventure, nature (@thesmoothescape)

Driving in Norway

Driving in Norway is a wonderful experience in itself. The roads are well-maintained, surrounded by striking views and the local drivers are calm and polite.

However, you shouldn’t underestimate how long it takes to drive around Norway with a campervan. It is the longest country in Europe and because of the numerous fjords, mountainous terrain and low speed limits, it can take a long time to reach your destination. When planning your Norway road trip, be sure to add some buffer to the driving times.

Roads in Norway

In general, roads are in great condition but some of them can be very narrow and curvy. Thankfully, these roads often have small roadside pull-outs or ‘pockets’, which you can use to let the oncoming cars pass.

You should also expect to see many tunnels and bridges when driving in Norway. Some of them have height and weight limits so remember to pay attention to the road signs.

On the larger motorways, the speed limits are usually between 90-110 km/h and on the single-lane roads outside the cities, they are 60-80 km/h.

There are also a lot of toll roads in Norway, especially between the bigger cities. If you are bringing your own van, you’ll have to register with AutoPass , which is the automated system for collecting toll payments. But if you are renting a campervan in Norway, it is most likely already registered with AutoPass.

We spent most of our time on the Lofoten Islands where there are thankfully no tolls.

Car ferries are an important part of Norway’s transportation system. You might want to take your camper van on a ferry to cross a fjord as it can significantly shorten the driving distance. Or you might want to visit some islands that are not connected to the mainland with a bridge. 

Be aware that in the summer months, there might be long queues for the ferries and they often reach full capacity. For the more popular ferry routes, it is recommended to arrive at the terminal hours before to make sure you get a spot.

Check the ferry routes and schedules here .

Camping in Norway

When it comes to camping in Norway, the main decision you have to make is whether you want to wild camp or stay at organized campsites. I recommend doing a mix of both.

While campsites give you access to all kinds of facilities, such as showers, laundry, wastewater disposal etc., the advantage of wild camping is that you can have a more private and quiet stay close to nature.

I recommend using the  Park4Night  app where you can find campsites and free parking spots and read other travelers’ reviews.

Campsites in Norway

There are many campsites all over the country and they are often situated in scenic areas, next to beaches, fjords or mountains. They usually offer facilities like hot showers, picnic tables, Wi-Fi, washing machines, kitchen areas, electricity hook-ups and small kiosks to buy groceries.

The cost of staying at a campsite in Norway is around 350-500 NOK (30-45 euros) per night for a camper van and a little more for a motorhome or caravan. Showers cost about 20 NOK (1-2 euros) and laundry about 80 NOK (7 euros).

If you’re traveling in the peak season, which is June, July and August, it would be a good idea to give the campsite a call before you arrive and check if they have free spots.

During our Northern Norway campervan trip we had a really great time staying at Lofoten Beach Camp . It’s an awesome campsite with modern facilities, an amazing beachfront location, Arctic surfing lessons, kayak rentals, a beautiful cafe and a sauna with ocean views.

Wild camping

One of the great things about touring Norway by campervan is that you’re allowed to wild camp in a lot of places.

Norway’s Allemannsretten , or the right to roam, dates back to ancient times and gives everyone the right to experience nature, even in privately owned areas. This means that wild camping – also known as free camping – is perfectly legal in Norway as long as you follow a few rules.  

Rules for wild camping in Norway:

• The right to roam only applies to ‘open country’, i.e. land that is unfenced and uncultivated. Don’t camp on plowed fields, meadows or in gardens.
• You have to stay at least 150m away from the nearest inhabited house or cabin.
• You can camp for up to two nights in the same place without asking the landowner’s permission, except in very remote areas or mountains.
• Be considerate. Do not disturb the wildlife, damage nature or leave any waste behind.

Note: Don’t expect to find wild camping opportunities in larger cities. There are often signs indicating that overnight parking is prohibited or limited to a few hours for motorhomes and campervans.

Tips for traveling Norway by campervan

Food & water.

As eating out is very expensive in Norway, buying groceries and cooking your own meals will save you a lot of money. The cheapest grocery stores are KIWI, Rema 1000 and Extra. They can be found all over Norway.

Be aware that most grocery stores are closed on Sundays, so time your shopping accordingly.

While you can buy beer in supermarkets, the stronger alcohol is only sold in Vinmonopolet, a government-owned alcohol retailer. Bear in mind that you can’t buy any alcohol in the shops after 8pm on weekdays, 6pm on Saturdays and all day on Sundays.

Tap water in Norway is perfectly safe to drink. In general, you can also drink the water from mountain streams and rivers, just make sure there are no grazing animals around. You can fill up the water tank of your campervan at gas stations, campsites and service points for motorhomes, which are often free to use.

Shower & toilets

There are many public toilets in Norway, they are often free or cost just a few cents and in most cases, they are very clean. You can also find free toilets in gas stations. The campervan that we rented from Wecamp came with a portable toilet, which was great to have when there was no proper toilet around.

In case your campervan doesn’t have a shower or you just prefer a normal shower, you can find them at campsites. You might be allowed to use one even if you’re not staying at the campsite and you usually have to pay around 20 NOK for 5 minutes. Just ask the campsite reception.

An alternative to taking a shower is going for a dip in the sea or in a lake. The water is usually clean and very cold (especially in the regions above the Arctic Circle) and will definitely leave you feeling refreshed!

Waste disposal

Your grey water tank and toilet cassette (if your campervan has one) should only be emptied at motorhome service stations or campsites that have proper facilities for that. The service stations are often free but in some cases, you might need a few coins to empty the toilet cassette. 

Look for blue road signs with a motorhome and an arrow pointing down from it to find service points and dump stations or use the Park4Night app. 

You should NEVER dump your waste into nature or rivers. Emptying the toilet cassette of your campervan into public toilets is also prohibited.

What to pack for your Norway campervan trip

If you’re renting a campervan in Norway, you probably don’t need to bring much on your trip as the vans are usually equipped with almost everything you need. Nevertheless, here are some handy things to have:

• Towels – These are usually not provided by the van rentals or you might have to pay extra for them.
• Sleep mask – If you’re visiting Norway during the Midnight Sun period when it’s bright outside 24 hours a day, it’s a good idea to bring a sleep mask to get a better night’s rest.
• Earplugs – At some campsites or overnight parking spots, there might be loud birds, noisy neighbors or traffic sounds. Bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.
• Bug spray – If you’re doing your Norway campervan trip in the summer, a bug spray is a must. While we didn’t see many mosquitoes during our Norway road trip, we did encounter some aggressive horse flies that would have ruined some of our hikes if we hadn’t had a repellent!
• Head torch – Not necessary during the Midnight Sun period but throughout the rest of the year it would be useful to have for the evenings.
• Reusable water bottle – Be kind to the environment and avoid creating unnecessary plastic waste.

Best time to go campervanning in Norway

May to september.

This period is excellent for campervanning in Norway. As the temperatures are warmer and the snow has melted, it’s the perfect time for hiking and enjoying the beautiful nature of Norway.

July and August are the warmest months but they are also the busiest. Expect to see lots of tourists and other campervan enthusiasts.

In the summer, the days are very long so you’ll have many hours each day to explore the country. In Northern Norway, during the Midnight Sun period, the sun won’t set at all so you can just go hiking in the middle of the night if you want! It’s truly a unique experience.

October to April

Winter in Norway can be tough. You should expect lots of snow and freezing temperatures. Therefore, it’s essential that you have a heater in your van. In some parts of Norway, you might also need snow chains for your tires.

As long as you and your van are properly prepared for the weather, winter can offer some wonderful experiences, such as dog sledding, seeing the Northern Lights , snowmobiling, whale watching and skiing. Take a look at my Tromso winter itinerary post to get an idea of what your winter trip in Norway could look like.

Note that some campsites and waste disposal stations are closed in the winter season. Also, be aware that the days are very short in the winter and that during the Polar Night period in Northern Norway, you’ll only get a few hours of twilight during the day (the sun won’t rise above the horizon).

Norway by campervan: Final thoughts

If you enjoy campervanning or motorhoming, then Norway should definitely be on your bucket list! Our campervan trip there exceeded all my expectations and I cannot wait to go back to explore more of this stunningly beautiful country.

If you have any questions about exploring Norway by campervan, leave them in the comments below.

For more tips to help you plan your trip, take a look at my other Norway travel guides:

• 5-day itinerary for a Lofoten Islands road trip
• Things to know before your trip to Senja Island
• Hiking on the Lofoten Islands – 10 best trails
• Visiting Trollfjord on the Lofoten Islands
• 4-day Tromso itinerary for winter
• 10 beaches you need to visit in Lofoten
• How to hike Reinebringen, Lofoten’s most iconic hike

Enjoyed reading about campervan travel in Norway? Pin it!

Why you should take a Trollfjord cruise in Lofoten

Visiting Senja Island in Norway: A complete travel guide

Tromso itinerary for 4 days: The perfect Tromso winter trip

The perfect Lofoten itinerary: 5 days on the Lofoten Islands

Reinebringen hike: The most famous view in Lofoten, Norway

Hiking in Lofoten: 10 epic hikes on Lofoten Islands

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Definitive guide to touring norway with a motorhome.

After spending the last 6 weeks touring Norway in our motorhome I think we have found motorhome heaven! Norway has everything the enthusiastic motorhome owner needs. If you don’t own a motorhome or camper van, please buy one or hire one and take it to Norway, because you will be hooked, just like we are.

When to go to Norway

The best time to go to Norway is in the summer months, unless you want a skiing holiday. Many roads in Norway can be closed in winter, especially roads like Trollstigen . In fact the Trollstigen road had only opened a week before we were there and I would have hated to have missed the drive up there. There is a good website where you can check which of the scenic Norwegian roads are closed and also a table that shows you the dates that the roads opened for the past few years. You can visit that website here .

We arrived in Norway in early May and the weather was warm and sunny. The temperature reached 24C on several occasions, although Norwegians we spoke to said the hot weather we had was very unusual. I would also recommend being in Norway for their National Day on 17th May. It’s a fantastic spectacle to see so many proud Norwegians waving their national flag.

Days in Norway, of course, are very long in summer. We found it was still light at midnight and was light again at about 4am. Black out blinds in our motorhome were very useful in helping to get a good nights sleep.

How to get to Norway

If you are driving from the UK to Norway with your motorhome you will need to find the best way to get to mainland Europe. There are no ferries from the UK to Norway. Our route took us from Hull to Rotterdam on the overnight ferry and we then drove through the Netherlands and northern Germany to the port of Puttgarden. Ferries run every 30 minutes to Rødby in Denmark. We took this ferry route because we wanted to see Copenhagen and drive north through Sweden.

The most popular ferry route to Norway is from the Danish ferry port of Hirtshals, to Kristiansand in southern Norway. Ferries also operate from Hirtshals to Larvik. Ferries are operated by Color Line and the journey takes 3 hours and 15 minutes. The typical cost of a one way trip with a 7 metre motorhome is about €198, based on  June departure, but costs are higher in the peak season.

If you take the Puttgarden ferry (about €100 for a 7 metre vehicle) you then need to cross the Øresund Bridge to Malmo (€98) or take the ferry from Helsingør to Helsingborg in Sweden. You could then drive via Gothenburg to Oslo.

A more expensive option is to take the ferry from Frederikshavn in Denmark to Oslo. This is the 12 hour ferry route we are using on our return from Norway. The cost for us was £335, including a 2 berth outside cabin.

The cost of living in Norway

Norway is an expensive country to visit. They have a high standard of living and food prices are high. Diesel cost us about £1.45 a litre. Before setting off for Norway we took as much food with us as weight would allow so that we could limit the amount we spent on food in Norwegian supermarkets. Of course, we bought fresh food such as milk, salad, orange juice (applesin juice) and found that we used Bunnpris and Joker supermarket chains, not because we thought they were cheap, but because we just happened to find more of them.

Driving, Tolls and Tunnels

Driving in Norway is a joy. Speed limits are low and even the main roads such as the E39 can be narrow making journey times longer than you might expect. In general, the Norwegian speed limit is 80 kilometres per hour, except for in built-up areas or town centres, where it is 50 kilometres per hour unless otherwise stated. It can be as low as 30 kilometres per hour in residential areas, and as high as 110 kilometres per hour on certain dual carriageways and motorways. Penalties for exceeding the speed limit are amongst the highest in Europe and I saw several cars stopped by unmarked police cars. I was also randomly breathalised at a police checkpoint so don’t drink and drive.

AutoPASS is the Norwegian system for collection of road and tunnel tolls. There are very few manned tolls and instead automated VNPR cameras are used to record number plates. I registered my vehicle details with Euro Parking Collection (EPC) before entering Norway and they send an invoice for payment. You can read about EPC here.

I have never driven through so many tunnels in my life. Norway has over 1,000 road tunnels that cut straight through huge mountains and underneath the sea. The longest tunnel is over 15 miles long. Most are free but there are some where you pay a toll. Drive carefully through Norwegian tunnels because many are very long and narrow and quite often they can be very dark, especially until your eyes become adjusted to the change from bright sunlight.

Many tunnels in Norway are not lined with concrete and instead have just bare rock; we found these tunnels to be the darkest to drive in. You will also be amazed when you see tunnels with roundabouts in them and road junctions.

The best tunnel we drove through was the Vallavik Tunnel which is an incredible tunnel-bridge-tunnel combination which includes two roundabouts in it!

Ferries in Norway

You can hardly drive anywhere in Norway without using ferries. They are very efficient and run regularly. They are part of the fun of a motorhome holiday in Norway, but you need to budget accordingly. The cost of taking a motorhome on a ferry in Norway depends on the length of the motorhome. Under 6 metres is the cut off point and anything over than that costs on average about double. Our motorhome is 7 metres long and the amount we paid for each ferry we used is shown below. Bear in mind that if you say your motorhome is under 6 metres and they check you can be fined so always be honest.

Payments for ferries in Norway are normally paid after you have driven on to the ship but we paid in the queue for the Geiranger ferry. We paid all our ferry costs by card but cash is also an option.

• Halsa to  Kanestraum 320 NOK (20 mins)
• Molde to Vestnes 420 NOK (40 mins)
• Geiranger to Hellesylt 1400 NOK (1 hour)
• Lavik to Oppedal. 300 NOK
• Vangsnes to Dragsvik. 320 NOK
• Kaupanger to Gudvangen. 1580 NOK (3 hours)
• Harvick ferry. 258 NOK (20 minutes)

Where to go in Norway

Norway is an amazing destination to visit. It is perfect for touring. The scenery, the people, the culture, the towns and the quality of the campsites all stand out to make Norway our destination of choice, especially when touring with a motorhome. Norway is a very big country so when planning your visit don’t try to do too much; you can always visit Norway again. When planning our trip we originally wanted to visit the Lofoton Islands but we decided we would save Lofoton for another time after realising that we would be driving for longer than we wanted. Lofoten is 1,369 km from Oslo and at least 20 hours driving time on slow roads.

For more information about where we visited in Norway see the separate articles below.

• Driving from Sweden to Norway – Blog article here
• Driving the amazing Atlantic Road – Blog article here
• Molde to Alesund and celebrating Norway Day- Blog article here
• Geiranger and the terrifying Trollstigen road – Blog article here
• Geiranger ferry and the awesome fjord – Blog article here
• Briksdall Glacier and Melkevoll Bretun – Blog article here
• Dalsnibba – The best view in Norway? – Blog article here
• The highest mountain road in Norway – Blog article here
• Sognefjord – Longest and deepest fjord –  Blog article here
• Visiting Bergen in a motorhome – Blog article here
• Hardanger – The ultimate driving experience – Blog article here
• Guide to visiting Oslo with a motorhome – Blog article here

Using the Internet and mobile phone in Norway

Every campsite we visited offered free WiFi and sometimes it was good enough to stream You Tube or similar and sometimes it was very poor. We also have good data allowances on our phones. My phone has a 25GB data allowance per month and I found that more than enough for our trip.  Most mobile phone companies include Norway in their European roaming as part of your monthly phone, text and data allowance but it’s worth checking with your mobile phone provider.

Motorhome service points and free camping

The Norwegian word for a motorhome is ‘Bobil’ and the word for parking is ‘parkering’. Norway is a very big country with a small population, many of whom own a motorhome themselves and the country is very well geared up for motorhomes. Car parks often having specific places for motorhomes and if they don’t there is normally plenty of space available.

Motorhome service points, where you can empty your waste and fill up with water are plentiful in Norway. Petrol stations often have service points. The excellent app. Camper Contact has many of the motorhome service points listed and is well worth getting.

Norway also has plenty of free places to stop for the night. All the locations we stayed out appeared perfectly safe to us and there were often other motorhomes parked there too. We found it harder to find free parking places in the popular fjords area’s such as Geiranger, but maybe we didn’t look hard enough. We would rather pay to be on a good campsite in a great location rather than stay overnight in an industrial area, so we probably stayed at more campsites than we could have done. We found campsite prices to be fairly reasonable. The beautiful campsite at Oldevatn for example cost £18 a night, which is far cheaper than many campsites in the UK. Norwegian campsites normally charge about 40 Norwegian Krone extra per day for electricity and use of the showers can cost 10 Norwegian Krone a time , we avoided paying  this by just using our own shower for the most part. Campsites in the main tourist towns tend to be more expensive. For example we paid £30 a night in Bergen.

The majority of campsites in Norway that we visited had holiday cabins for rent of various sizes. It’s possible to just turn up without booking, apart from high season, and prices are quite reasonable. I enquired about several and was quoted between about £40 and £75 per night. It’s expected that you supply your own bed linen, but it’s possible to hire that too. If you don’t have a motorhome, consider taking your car and rent a holiday cabin similar to the one I took a photo of below.

How much did our motorhome trip cost?

Norway is an expensive country to visit but there are things you can do to reduce the cost. Food costs about 2 or 3 times more than it does in England so we took 2 large plastic boxes of food costing about £200, which I didn’t include in the table below. We did quite a lot of wild camping, but we could have done more, but the best campsites are in the best locations so we decided to use them.

Ferries are an inevitable part of visiting Norway. You can’t really avoid using ferries but you can avoid the expensive one’s that we used as a tourist attraction. Two ferries alone, Geiranger and Kaupanger, cost us £275 and we didn’t need to do these.

We didn’t really dine out but the amount we spent included 2 lunches and the inevitable coffee and cakes! What’s the point of visiting a country if you don’t do some tourism things? We visited many museums and other bits and pieces.

The cost of our motorhome tour of Norway was slightly above our budget and I haven’t included the cost of getting to and from Norway. We could have done it a lot cheaper. Overnight camping costs worked out at £18 per night on average over 45 nights.

Top tips for a motorhome tour of Norway

• When visiting popular cruise ports in Norway, such as Geiranger, Flåm, and Alesund try to avoid days when a cruise ship is visiting. Thousands of cruise passengers disembark and the towns can be swamped with tourists, not a pleasant experience in my opinion. Use crew-centre.com website for a full list of dates and cruise ship names. For example, if you arrive in Flåm expecting to use the Flåm railway and a cruise ship is in town you might find the train is fully booked.
• We didn’t book a single campsite in advance and there is no need to book ahead apart from popular places in high season. Driving takes far longer than you might expect due to low speed limits so we only planned a few days in advance and would turn up at campsites without a booking. We found the campsites to be very quiet, although weekends would get busy. Norwegians tend to take their main summer holiday from 21 June so from then it gets a lot busier.
• If you intend to steep roads such as Trollstigen make sure your vehicle brakes are in good working order!

I hope this guide helps you if you decide to visit Norway. It’s an incredible country but we did not see many people from the UK. Maybe it’s the perception that Norway is expensive, but that should not put you off visiting Norway, because it has an incredible amount to offer, especially if you are touring in a motorhome.

Please leave a comment if you have a question about visiting Norway with a motorhome or if you have any advice of your own to add. We would love to hear from you.

57 responses to “Definitive guide to touring Norway with a motorhome”

Brilliant guide David, as you know we were loving exploring Norway in our motor home at the same time as you and agree with everything you have said. It is the most spectacular country with truly wonderful people and we are missing it already. Great blog as always. So loved meeting you both on that remote snowy mountain road. 🌎

Heading to Sweden, Finland and Norway very soon, so bookmarked your page. Thank you, it will be useful. I live practically full time in my motorhome and travel the world. Had it shipped to Canada and drove to Alaska and back last year! facebook.com/smallhomebiggarden

Hi Alan. Thanks for commenting. Wow that’s amazing what you have done. We have just completed 12 months full time. Sounds like we have some catching up to do. Happy travels

Hi guys, I have been following your blog with interest and envy. Norway certainly looks stunning and is now on our (long list) of places to visit. Working full time limits the amount of time we have currently but I am sure we will get to Norway in our Motorhome one day. Wishing you many more happy adventures.

Hi Neil. Good to hear from you and I’m pleased you enjoy the blog. I hope you get to Norway in the future but in the meantime happy motorhoming!

great guide- thank you! We’re heading up to Norway in our motorhome next week- can’t wait!!

Enjoy. It’s a wonderful place for motorhomes.

Thank you so much for all the information. We are planning a trip to Norway next year and your guide is fantastic. All the best Carole

Thanks Carole. Glad you found the guide useful. Enjoy your travels. David

Very good and accurate report on motorhoming in Norway. I would thoroughly recommend the north of Norway – Lofoten, Vesterålen and Senja – but avoid from mid June to end July as it can get a bit crowded. I would also mention that there are many marinas and lots of these offer parking from spring to autumn and these generally have all services available.A very useful site that we use is http://bobilplassen.no/kart/ only in norsk but you should be able ti figure it out. ( I am a keen motorhomer and live in Norway.)

Hi Alan. Many thanks for your useful comments. We intended to go to Lofoten but decided it was too much driving this time. Thanks for the information about marinas. A beautiful country and a must do for motorhomers.

Some excellent advice and information, to take a trip to a Norway is on our list. Can I ask why you chose the ferry rather than drive up through Germany into Denmark and across the little belt bridge and Storebaelt Bridge. (e20) into Sweden.

Hi Julie. To get to Norway we drove through northern Germany to Puttgarden and caught the ferry to Rødby in Denmark and then drove to Copenhagen. We wanted to see a little of Sweden so we drove across the Öresund bridge to Malmo and then on to Stockholm. We drove north then to Sundsvall before turning west to Trondheim and then down the west coast of Norway. We then caught the ferry from Oslo to Fredrikshaven on the return because it’s something we have always wanted to do. Not the cheapest return ferry but there are many options we could have used. Hope that helps. David

What a fab guide! Norway has been on our “list” ever since we got our motorhome. This will come in very handy indeed. Thank you!

Thanks for commenting. Hope the guide inspires you to visit. We will be going again next year.

Superb guide and just what we needed for our trip next year. Thanks for putting it together and in such a useful and factual format.

Thanks Geoff. Hope you enjoy your trip as much as we did. Best wishes – David

Thank you David, great read, gave us some fantastic ideas, we have just paid our deposit on our first motorhome, and was hoping to take delivery in March but now advised July, we will definitely have Norway on our bucket list. I have flown to Norway on business many times in the past and travelled the country by train but did not see much of Norway on these trips, understand the daily costs. 👍 🇳🇴

Hi Andrew. I’m sure you will love your new motorhome and exploring in it. Glad you enjoyed the blog and thanks for commenting. All the best – David

Hi David Great info on your trip to Norway. We own an older but reliable motorhome which sadly has no turbo so hills are slow going and there have been times, like driving to the Mount Etna base station, when I thought we wouldn’t make but we did. Looking at your excellent photos the roads are steep with plenty of hairpin bends. As a seasoned traveller would you say they are steeper and more difficult than the mountain roads of The Scottish Highlands, Italy and Slovenia?

We want to make the Norway trip but also want to be sure the van will make albeit a bit slower up the hills.

Hi Rosalyn. Thanks for your comment. The mountains in Norway are not as high as in Italy or Slovenia, although we have not driven our motorhome in these countries. Many of the steep mountain roads in Norway like Dalsnibba can be avoided so I would say older motorhomes would be fine on most of the roads as long as your brakes are good! Much of the beautiful Norwegian coastal area does not have high mountain roads. Enjoy your travels. David

Hi David. Great blog and looks like a fantastic trip,my wife and I are looking to go for 2.5 weeks in June and hiring a moterhome we used to tow caravan for 15 years so have a good sense of the concept.Is it possible for you to send me the route you took to see Thank you Phil

Hi Phil. Our route was a total of 8 weeks so it probably won’t be suitable for a much shorter visit to Norway. Essentially, we drove to Stockholm and up the east coast of Sweden before driving west to Trondheim and then down the coast to Bergen. We then drove over the Hardanger plateau to Oslo. If I were you I would be getting the ferry from Hirtshals to Kristianand and then exploring the western side of Norway. Hope you enjoy it. David

Hi, I’ve just read your guide to touring Norway in a Motorhome as we’re looking at the possibility of doing this in ours in the near future. The only problem is that our Motorhome is 8.9m long. Having read about the narrow roads do you feel that it would still be possible in a Motorhome of this length?

Thanks for the message Dale. Our motorhome is just over 7 metres long and we had no problems, even on steep mountain roads. Good brakes are essential though! We saw a few longer motorhomes. It’s maybe not narrow roads that might be a problem but some mountain roads have hairpin bends that could cause a problem. The major roads though are very good. Maybe you could ask on a motorhome forum whether anyone with your length motorhome has had problems in Norway. Personally, I think it would be fine although bear in mind that you will pay more on the Norwegian ferries. Best wishes – David

Thank you so much David for all your wonderful information on Norway i am just looking to plan a trip there, you have helped so much. really a great blog. Happy Travels

Thanks for commenting on my Norway blog Vanessa. Glad you found it useful. Happy travels to you too, when we are eventually allowed to travel again!

We want to book a Norway motor home vacation , can you recommend a good website for renting out motorhomes. Also what kind of motorhome you would recommend to rent? We can only stay 7 days (more like 5 full days due to the airport arrangements) , which places you would recommend to see in this short time. Thank you

Hi. Thanks for asking about motorhome rental in Norway. We took ourown motorhome to Norway so I can’t recommend any particular company. I think it costs about 2,000 NOK per day so it’s not cheap. I did a search on Google and found quite a few companies who do motorhome rentals so it might be an idea to contact a few to compare prices. An alternative might be to hire a car and stay in cheap accommodation. Most campsites offer huts or some form of self catering accommodation. Best wishes David

Hello Garcia, This is probably too late to help you, but maybe David could add a line in the post?? I’m a Brit living in Norway since 2010 and we regularly rent a motorhome for a summer holiday. There are a few commercial places to rent from but by far the majority rent from private owners via our local ‘ebay’ site called https://www.finn.no/

As mentioned Norway is expensive and Motorhomes are crazy expensive and the only way that many folks can afford to buy one is to rent them out for a few weeks a year. Rental is also pretty steep, we’ve paid from 10,000 to 15,000 kroner for a week depending on the age etc. Quality is very good as they are privately owned. Be aware that cleaning is not included (although some let you pay for it) so you’ll need to allow a couple of hours to clean it at the end of your trip. Materials are provided.

We prefer to camp in the roadside spots (nearly always with one or two others for ‘peace of mind’) but we do find it difficult to plan ahead as these places are not kind of advertised etc. We’ve never not found a place to stay but it’s fair to say that occasionally we’ve stopped at less than ideal locations lol!

Food wise, it’s definitely more expensive but if you’re careful, it’s not crazy by any means, There are more and more ‘home brands’ and ‘first price’ lines and the quality is good.

Safety, never even think about it. I’ve lived all over the world and Norway is by far the safest place I’ve ever been. I often forget to lock up my garage full of construction tools, once or twice even with the garage door open lol! And I never lock my car at home and have found the keys in the ignition more than one morning.

Of course cities are cities and all have their rough elements, but out in the sticks it’s as safe as houses.

Ok, as you can imagine, I could go on 😉 Thanks for the article, it’s a good write up David! Cheers and hope you get to see more of this amazing country. Ian

Hi David, nice information. Do you have a map with the travel you did?

Hi Ismael. Thanks for your comment. I have a Google Map of the places we stayed in Norway and other places in Europe. You can view the map below. Happy travels – https://www.google.com/maps/d/drive?state=%7B%22ids%22%3A%5B%221LJpNNWFhb2EbTdVMM0otUZ3GTyxq6LDY%22%5D%2C%22action%22%3A%22open%22%2C%22userId%22%3A%22117560295096271464859%22%7D&usp=sharing

Thanks for your answer David, I have my route almost finish: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1a8LU9ub9nuVM2x9GrbbpYPlKh614JjXz&ll=60.79730266244792%2C9.60700901040505&z=7

I am wondering if you had problem with narrow roads, I took a look into same route using google maps view, and some of them has only one lane, did you have problem with this? Are there routes with a limitation in width of the motorhome?

Hi Ismael. We didn’t come across many single track roads on our motorhome tour of Norway. When we did, there were plenty of passing places, so we never had a problem. I can’t remember seeing a width restriction. The roads are good in Norway and traffic is generally light. The map of your Norway driving routes looks excellent.

Hi David. This is a very useful guide. Thank you for putting it together. I’m researching a good destination to explore via motorhome (with wife and 2 children) and Norway is a nice option. The only place we’ve ever rented a motorhome was in Iceland and the trip was incredible so we would like to do something similar again. I’m curious of your opinion…where do you think has been the best all around country to explore via motorhome? In terms of natural beauty, ease of getting around, campsite availability, etc. Thanks.

Hi Steve. Thanks for your question. On balance I would say France is the best country for motorhomes because it’s got everything from rugged coastlines, beaches and mountains in The Alps area. It’s also the most motorhome friendly in terms of places to stay. Having said that, our motorhome tour of Norway takes some beating due to the beautiful west coast mountains and fjords. The only downside of Norway is that food is expensive, but probably very similar priced to Iceland. Happy travels.

Hi David, Thank you for the excellent blog on Norway. I found it very helpful. We are planning a visit in May 2021 for 2 months or more. It may be that there will be a shortage of cruise liners clogging up popular areas if we are lucky! We are thinking of shipping our MoHo (7m) directly from Southampton to Drammen (Oslo) by RoRo and I have been quoted £950 oneway. We would consider driving back. I was wondering what you thought of this as an option. David

Hi David. Your idea of putting your motorhome on a ship to Oslo sounds like a good one. Not one I have considered. It’s the more expensive option but it’s probably the quickest way of getting to Oslo. I would recommend driving at least one way because our trip through The Netherlands, northern Germany and Denmark was excellent. Happy travels.

This was absolutely brilliant and gave us so much information. We purchased a VW California which we took delivery of just before Christmas (2020). I know we are in the middle of a pandemic but we have put our positive hats on and booked the Shuttle for end of June and will be travelling to the Lofoten Islands. So fingers crossed. Thank you so much for the blog and I will be returning to it as part of our research.

Hi Tracy. Many thanks for your positive comments about my Noway motorhome blog article. I’m really pleased you found it useful. Yes, it’s good to be positive about being able to travel again soon and I bet you can’t wait to start using your new VW California. It certainly will be an exciting trip to the Lofoten Islands, a place we didn’t make it to on our Norway trip, but it’s certainly on our list! Best wishes. David

Really enjoyed your guide. We plan to go in May and your blog will certainty help us plan our trip. thank you Philip

Very useful information David, thanks for that. I noticed you included costs for LPG. Do you have an LPG tank or bottles, and how did you get on filling up ?

Hi Colin. Thanks for your comments. Yes, we have a refillable gaslow system with 2 7kg bottles. We only needed lpg once and I found it using an lpg app. Norway is very motorhome friendly and many Norwegians own them. Happy travels. David

Is there a map that incorporates all of the scenic routes together?

Hi Alex. The Visit Norway website has all the scenic tourist routes with maps and you can find that here

Such a very informative website, David. We are currently planning a trip to Norway in May and the information on this page is brilliant. We intend to go right up to Nordkapp, weather permitting. Even though you went in 2018 it was great to see your budget page to get an idea of what expense there will be. Thanks so much.

Hi Margaret. Thanks for your nice comments. Nordkapp is a long drive but an exciting journey. Enjoy your trip. David

Hi, we’re going to take a motorhome trip in Norway this summer. I was wondering where one disposes soiled water from the motorhome? And how would you refill your water tank? Are there dedicated hookups in the overnight parking areas? I know campsites do provide hookups, but you often mention free overnight parkings. I’d appreciate the information. Thanks!

Hi Marina. Nice to hear from you. As you say, campsites have hookups and waste disposal. Free parking areas for motorhomes and camper vans do not have facilities for fresh water or waste disposal, however many fuel stations have motorhome service points that we used on our Norway trip. Many picnic areas also have toilets that you can use. Hope that helps and I hope you have a great trip to Norway. Best wishes – David

Hi we are thinking of driving from Tromso to Oslo in September in a small rented camper van. We would only have 17 days of road travel time. Is that just not enough time?? This is a great guide thank you.

Hi Julie. Thanks for reading my blog about exploring Norway in a motorhome/camper and thanks for your question. Tromnso to Oslo following the west coast route is about 1700km and that is about 24 hours worth of driving. 17 days is a good length of time to explore the best bits of Norway. If I were you I would spend more time exploring south of the Trondheim area, which in my opinion is the best bit, although you may also want to spend time in the Lofoten islands. There is so much spectacular scenery to see in Norway that you could easily spend a month there but 17 days is a reasonable stay although you will need to plan what you want to see and calculate how long you can spend in each of those places. Good luck and enjoy your Norway trip. David

Great blog- thanks for sharing. We are planning a trip up to Norway in August and I am thinking about all the logistics. Would you say it’s essential to put a Gaslow system in? Or is it at all possible to exchange gas cylinders in Norway. Thanks in advance for your help. Alice

Hi Alice. Thanks for reading my blog about our motorhome tour of Norway. We have a gaslow system and we did fill up in Norway. The Gaslow system, however is quite expensive to install, although cheap to fill up. I don’t know what the situation is in Norway about exchanging a gas cylinder. Might be worth asking the question on the Facebook forum Motorhome Adventures. I hope you enjoy your Norway trip. It’s an amazing place for a motorhome adventure! David

I like your Guide David and I’m also thrilled to see another Hobby. We’ve got a Hobbyvan which we bought in 2013 and have used extensively up to Covid. Now planning a trip to Norway in September with the idea of getting to the Lofotens and a bit further north. We’ll be there for at least two months so I’m going to take your advice and take it easy . Cheers Conor

Hi Conor. Thanks for your comment and it’s great to hear from another Hobby owner! Norway is a fantastic country for a road trip and I’m sure you will love it there. I’m envious that you are going to the Lofoten islands as we didn’t make it that far north. Enjoy your travels. David

Enjoyed reading your blog. I have a couple of questions if you don’t mind. Firstly our motorhome is 8.5 m long tag axle. Would there be many issues exploring the main tourist areas in this do you think, and secondly are dogs welcome in Norway? Thankyou.

Hello Eileen. Thanks for your comment and I’m glad you like the blog article about touring Norway in a motorhome. You won’t have many issues taking an 8.5 metre motorhome to Norway. The only thing I can think of is that you will pay extra on the ferries in Norway because of the length of your vehicle. There are many ferries on the west coast of Norway that are used to cross fjords instead of a long drive around!

As far as taking a dog to Norway is concerned, we are not dog owners so I’m not sure of any regulations but I didn’t notice any restrictions. You would be best to check this though. I found this website which might be helpful – https://www.norden.org/en/info-norden/travelling-dogs-or-cats-norway .

Happy travels! – David

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Explore Norway with a Camper: The Ultimate 3-Week Itinerary

Norway is a breathtakingly beautiful country, with an array of natural wonders and outdoor adventures that are waiting to be explored. And what better way to experience all of this than by renting a camper and setting off on a road trip? With a camper rental, you have the freedom to travel at your own pace, stopping wherever and whenever you like, making it the perfect way to experience Norway.

Whether you're an experienced camper or a first-time adventurer, this 2-week itinerary will help you make the most of your trip to Norway. So, let's get started!

Day 1-2: Oslo

Start your adventure in Norway's capital, Oslo. This modern city has a lot to offer, from museums and art galleries to parks and gardens. Take a stroll through the city center to see the famous Royal Palace and visit the Munch Museum to see works by the famous Norwegian painter, Edvard Munch.

If you have time, head to the Vigeland Sculpture Park, a park filled with more than 200 bronze, granite, and cast iron sculptures. Spend the night in one of the camper parks in the city.

Day 3-4: Drammen

Drive to Drammen, a city located about 40 kilometers from Oslo. This city is known for its picturesque waterfalls and parks. Take a stroll along the river and explore the city's cultural heritage.

Spend the night in a camper park in the city, and in the morning, visit the beautiful Marienlyst Park, one of the city's most popular attractions.

Day 5-6: Geilo

Drive to Geilo, a beautiful mountain resort in the heart of Norway. This area is known for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Take a hike in the mountains, go fishing, or simply relax and enjoy the view.

Spend the night in a camper park in the area, and in the morning, visit the Geilo Cultural Heritage Museum to learn about the history of the area.

Day 7-8: Bergen

Drive to Bergen, a charming coastal city located in western Norway. This city is known for its vibrant cultural scene and rich history. Take a stroll through the city center to see the famous Bergenhus Fortress, the oldest of Bergen's many historic buildings.

Spend the night in a camper park in the city, and in the morning, visit the famous Fish Market, one of the city's most popular attractions.

  Day 9-10: Ålesund

Drive to Ålesund, a picturesque coastal town located in western Norway. This town is known for its beautiful architecture, stunning scenery, and outdoor activities. Take a hike in the mountains, go fishing, or simply relax and enjoy the view.

Spend the night in a camper park in the area, and in the morning, visit the Ålesund Aquarium, one of the town's most popular attractions.

Day 11-12: Trondheim 

Drive to Trondheim, a charming city located in central Norway. This city is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. Take a stroll through the city center to see the famous Nidaros Cathedral, the largest medieval cathedral in Norway.

Spend the night in a camper park in the city, and in the morning, visit the Trondheim Science Museum to learn about the history and culture of the area.

 Day 13-14: Tromsø

Drive to Tromsø, a city located in northern Norway  , known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures. This city is located above the Arctic Circle, making it an ideal location for viewing the Northern Lights. Take a hike in the mountains, go fishing, or simply relax and enjoy the view.

Spend the night in a camper park in the city, and in the morning, visit the Tromsø Museum to learn about the history and culture of the area.

Day 15-16: Lofoten Islands

Drive to the Lofoten Islands, a group of stunningly beautiful islands located in northern Norway. This area is known for its stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and cultural heritage. Take a hike in the mountains, go fishing, or simply relax and enjoy the view.

Spend the night in a camper park in the area, and in the morning, visit the Lofoten War Museum to learn about the history of the area. xt here ...

Day 17-18: Bodø

Drive to Bodø, a city located in northern Norway. This city is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Take a hike in the mountains, go fishing, or simply relax and enjoy the view.

Spend the night in a camper park in the city, and in the morning, visit the Bodø War Museum to learn about the history of the area.

Day 19-20: Return to Oslo 

Drive back to Oslo, the starting point of your journey. Take one last stroll through the city, visit any museums or attractions you missed, and reflect on the amazing experiences you had during your 2-week road trip in Norway.

Conclusion: The best road trip with a camper

At Nordic Campers, we believe that a 3-week road trip is the perfect amount of time to experience the best of what Norway has to offer. It allows you to see a variety of landscapes, from the vibrant city of Oslo to the stunning Lofoten Islands and the Northern Lights in Tromsø. You'll also have the opportunity to partake in a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and exploring the cultural heritage of the area. With a camper rental, you have the freedom to travel at your own pace, and we're confident that you'll fall in love with Norway's natural beauty and charm. So, book your camper rental today, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

About the author

• Places to go
• Plan your trip
• Things to do
• Camper rental in Norway
• Essentials for Packing
• Mobile Apps in Norway
• Nordic Campers
• Tips for your Trip
• Top 5 locations in Norway

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Embracing the new #vanlife trend, the founders of Nordic Campers realized that Norway needed an affordable camper rental company that people could use on their adventures around the country. Our vision is to provide travelers with a completely unique travel experience as well as the most convenient and affordable campers in Norway.

Company Profile

Nordic Campers is a small family company that takes its pride in delivering good service to their customers. It was founded in 2012 and was the first mini-camper rental in Norway. Through the years is has kept developed and is now the most know campervan rental in Norway. Nordic Campers is recommended by www.visitnorway.com

Motorhoming in Norway: everything you need to know

Travelling to Norway is probably on top of every motorhome enthusiasts list. How could it not be? These amazing landscapes will keep on surprising you. Beautiful lakes, miles of woodlands, rough mountains and not to forget the world-famous Fjords! The best part of it all is that thanks to the 'allemansretten', you can go anywhere you want as long as you respect nature and environmental laws and leave everything tidy.

A tour through Norway with your motorhome is guaranteed to be one of the most special trips you will ever make. See the rugged south coast, drive from Trollstigen to Geiranger , wander off among the colourful wooden houses in Bergen and finish your motorhome trip along the Lofoten and the North Cape! You might even be able to see the Northern Lights during your motorhome trip! Have we persuaded you? Then keep reading to find out all about camping in Norway!

Want to know what the rules are when travelling through Norway with your motorhome? Then keep on reading.

Coloured houses in Bergen

Hardangerfjord

Spending the night with a motorhome in Norway 

According to the Norwegian law you are free to park your motorhome anywhere in Norway. The maximum stay is three days and there should not be a house in a radius of 150 metres. If you would still like to use a motorhome site in Norway you can find plenty on Campercontact.

Emergency phone number Norway  

Ambulance, police and fire brigade: 112

Mandatory to bring to Norway

In Norway it is mandatory to carry a warning triangle and safety vest in your motorhome. It is also recommended to carry fire extinguishers (not less than 2kg), as it is mandatory for motorhomes with Norwegian registration plates. 

For the most up-to-date travel information on Norway, take a look at the central government site.

Roads and traffic in Norway

Speed limits in Norway Speed limits in Norway:

• Within built-up area ≤ 3.5 tonnes: 50 km/h
• Inside built-up area > 3.5 tonnes: 50 km/h
• Outside built-up area ≤ 3,5 tonnes: 80 km/h
• Outside built-up area > 3.5 tonnes: 80 km/h
• Motorway ≤ 3.5 tonnes: 90/100 km/h (in summer this may be 110 km/h, follow signs)
• Highway > 3.5 tonnes: 80 km per hour 
• Fine indication from 20 km per hour: maximum €460. 

Tol in Noorwegen Since 2022, Norway's toll laws have been updated and toll collection is almost fully automatic now. However, this requires you to register your license plate and this can be done in 3 different ways. 

• If you do not register your motorhome's registration plate in advance, the bill will be sent to you by Sweden’s  Epass24 . This can sometimes take up to several months and you will pay the normal rate. A camper of >3500kg pays the truck rate (200%). 
• Register your registration plate in advance via Epass24 . This allows you to view and pay your bill by mail and also gives you the option to view your toll history. In addition you pay the low passenger car rate with a motorhome of >3500kg. 
• Purchase an Autopass tag, toll badge or OBUtag. This automates your toll payment and also gives various discounts on motorhomes of <3500kg and ferries. You can apply for your badge through 1 of these 5 providers: AutoPass tag can issue: Fremtind Service,  Flyt ,  Brobizz ,  SkyttelPASS  and  ØresundPAY . Please note: apply for your toll badge at least 10 weeks in advance.

Winter motorhoming in Norway

It is not mandatory to have winter tyres on your motorhome but the tyres must be suitable for all weather conditions. The minimum profile depth for motorhomes <7.5 tonnes is 3mm in winter. Additionally, if you drive a heavy motorhome it is recommended to carry snow chains. For company vehicles this is mandatory. Studded tyres are allowed under certain conditions. 

Bear in mind that mountain passes may be closed in winter. In addition, stricter rules apply to motorhomes registered as commercial vehicles (N1, N2, N3).

Environmental rules in Norway

There are low emission zones in Bergen , Oslo and Kristiansand . Here it varies per emission zone how much has to be paid to access the zone. 

Report a change?

The information on this page is checked regularly. Nevertheless it is possible that something has changed in the regulations in the meantime. All information on this page is therefore under reserve of possible changes. Have you discovered an error? Please let us know via our contact form and, if necessary, we will adjust it as soon as possible.

• Norway , Travel

A Beginner’s Guide to Motorhome Travel in Norway: Everything you need to know

Gorgeous landscapes, stunning fjords, friendly people… why wouldn’t you want to take your motorhome to Norway? We recommend taking the camper for a good tour of the immense country if you have the time. But here are 9 things we want you to consider when you want to go with your motorhome to Norway.

1: You will be doing a lot of driving

Norway is big. Yes, I understand that it depends on where you come from, but for a European country, it is significant. And with all the fjords and inlets, roads twist and turn a lot, giving you a LOT of kilometres to ride. Up and down mountains.

Be prepared to drive long ends if you want to go far. Or decide to take enough time to visit an area and take it slow, which is more our approach.

Some of the roads are stunning though, like the Aursjovegen. Check out our special blog about this stunning road .

2: Prepare for bumpy roads and small tunnels

The highways in Norway are great. The roads are well-managed and smooth. However, other roads aren’t always great, especially in the North of Norway. Especially in spring, after the snow melts, asphalt can be in bad shape. There are potholes everywhere, and the sides of the road can slope.

And those are the bigger roads, more driven roads. Some roads are gravel or lose stones if you get more inland. We’ve had muddy roads too. Make sure your campervan or RV is able to do roads like this and you feel comfortable riding on that kind of road.

And be aware of your height, especially in tunnels. We drove through quite a few tunnels that weren’t that big and where we had to drive in the middle of the road. Natalie was always happy when we didn’t have oncoming traffic in those tunnels because passing each other was quite a feat.

3: Be aware of changing weather

Even if you are going in summer, it doesn’t mean you will always get blue skies and sun. The weather in Norway is known for one thing: it changes all the time.

We mean that it can change within the same day. Don’t go up a mountain in shorts without bringing extra clothes. The weather can change in a second, and you might get really cold or really wet.

Talking about rain, we’ve had many grey days with temperatures of around 11/12 degrees Celsius in the North of Norway. So make sure you both have the clothes and amenities to cope with this and the right mindset.

If you hate dreary days, Norway might not be suitable for you.

4: Camp responsibly

In Norway, there are two main options for camping with your motorhome: you can go to a campground or park it anywhere else.

There are great campgrounds in Norway, with electricity, showers, waste facilities, and sometimes special facilities like saunas. But campsites in Norway are not cheap. In summer, they can cost about 35/40 euros per night. Which will add up quickly.

Your other option is to park the camper anywhere you’d like – well, almost. Norway has ‘allemannsretten’, which literally translates to everyman’s right. You have to right to roam free and park on uncultivated land in Norway. But it is crucial to do so responsibly . Take care of the land, the animals, the people and your neighbours. In doing so, we make sure we keep it fun for the people that come after us as well as the locals:

Think about the people around you. You can camp in uncultivated areas as long as you are at least 150 meters away from a house for a maximum of 2 days.

Apply the Boy Scout rule: Always leave the campground cleaner than you found it. Take your rubbish with you, and dump your grey and black water in the designated areas. Not in nature. It is terrible for the environment. And no one wants to find a nice spot in nature covered in filth.

And take care of the nature around you. Do not park on ground that will have trouble recuperating from your presence. We saw some people parked on moss that took 10 years to grow… and they destroyed it in a single night. It was uncultivated land, but the spot didn’t make sense. Several other spots on the same land were better suited for parking.

Be responsible with fire. Fires are mostly prohibited between the 15th of April and the 15th of September. It may be allowed if a fire hazard is very unlikely, so check the local regulations. When you build a campfire, make sure it is safe and put it out before leaving it.

5: Don’t underestimate the hiking trails

If you do not come from a very mountainous region and are not used to hiking in the mountains, please do not underestimate the hiking trails.

We knew we were not the best hikers, but we still had some experiences where we underestimated the challenge of a trail. Some trails had the rating ‘easy’ that we felt were far from easy-to-walk paths, but we managed to do them. Some you couldn’t even call paths as it was just painted markers on rocks. Multiple times we decided to turn around halfway because it became too difficult or too hard.

6: Keep your dog on a leash

By the way, no matter where you are, dogs must always be on a leash during spring and summer. The reason is all the wildlife and the babies they have in spring and summer. If dogs can roam free, they might scare animals, and parents might leave their newborns, who can not survive on their own. There is also the chance that dogs can severely harm or kill these vulnerable new animals. Although not all dogs chase wildlife, and the chances of anything happening might be small, you don’t want it to be your dog.

Letting your dog off leash where or when you are not allowed can lead to hefty fines. The fines again seem to differ per region, but we’ve seen fines of hundreds of euros. And that is if nothing happens. The consequences can be even more severe if your dog kills or harms wildlife.

The dates for this forced lead period depend a bit per region, but you can be sure it is in effect between the 1st of April and the second half of August. Check the local laws or signs for information. In autumn and winter, your dog can be off-leash if he/she is well-behaved and listens. But many Norwegians will still keep their dog on a lead, even in winter.

7: Use the public toilets

Need to use the restroom? There are public toilets at rest stops on bigger roads and popular roads, but smaller roads will not have any. But here is a little trick: most supermarkets in Norway have a ‘kunden’ toilet, meaning you can go there if you are a customer. A lot of malls have restrooms too.

If the above fails, and you need to go in nature, make sure to do this responsibly; use a shovel to dig a hole and make sure to cover it up nicely. But please only do this in emergencies.

8: Anticipate spending a lot of money

You probably already heard that food in Norway is expensive. You need to budget more for food than in other European countries. Or, if possible, bring your own stock of food and drinks. Although there are limitations on how much you can bring.

But did you know that is definitely the case for things with sugar? Norway has a sugar tax, meaning you pay extra for certain sugary goods.

Products that are notably expensive:

• Sweets and chocolate
• Chips (or crisps)
• Fresh vegetables

Oh, and did you know that not only is alcohol costly in Norway, but you also can’t buy it in the supermarket? You can get beer in supermarkets, but only before 8 pm on weekdays or 6 pm on weekends. For wine, spirits or stronger beer, you must visit the Vinmonopolet, the state shop for liquors.

But it’s not just the food that is more expensive. It’s just about everything: fuel prices, campsites, ferries. The nice thing is that the beautiful scenery is free and it is EVERYWHERE.

9: Don’t expect to eat out a lot

If you think food is expensive in supermarkets, you are in for a shock when you go out to eat! Finding nice restaurants outside the more prominent, touristy spots is difficult, and the food is costly. Oh, and you can almost forget about ordering a drink with it!

Storytime: Marten and I met some friendly people near Bergen that had just arrived and had gone out to eat on their first night. Without looking at the menu, they had ordered a bottle of wine. We were shocked because even a glass of wine will cost you about 15 euros in a restaurant. They were shocked too when they saw the bill! The couple had no idea of the prices of alcohol in Norway and had to revise their plans for the rest of the trip.

We hope you have a great time in Norway with your RV or van!

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We are Marten and Natalie. We are travelling through Europe in our camper and would love to share our stories with you about travelling in a motorhome.

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Travel to Norway with motorhome or caravan

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Norway is known for its dramatic mountains and scenic fjords. Traveling to Norway with a motorhome or caravan is a fantastic, and at the same time flexible way to experience this magnificent country. In this article, we go through what you need to think about before and during the trip.

Take the motorhome or caravan to Norway?

Many who have their own motorhome or caravan, or who rent a camping vehicle for the holidays, dream of Norway as a destination. Norway is popular as a camping country among other northerners, but also among, for example, Germans and Dutch. The country offers renowned beautiful nature, beautiful roads and many campsites. 

Rent a motorhome or caravan in Norway

If you don’t have your own camping vehicle, you can get to Norway by car, or by a plane, and rent a motorhome or caravan on site. At MyCamper you can search and book camping vehicles that are rented out in Norway. When you do your search, you get all the bookable vehicles on a map, so you can choose a vehicle in a place that suits you.

Entry rules in Norway 

To travel into Norway, you need an approved entry document. If you are a Nordic citizen, a driving license or a national ID card issued in a Nordic country is sufficient. Svalbard is, however, an exception where Nordic citizens also need a passport. If you are not a Nordic citizen, a valid passport is required, and from some countries outside the EU / EEA also a visa. During the pandemic, you need to check if you also need covid evidence and / or negative covid test. You will find current information about the pandemic and trips to Norway at   Visit Norway .

Please note that Norway is not a member of the EU. In addition to personal equipment for the trip, you can take goods worth NOK 6,000 with you duty free. This may include a maximum of 10 kg of food and limited amounts of alcohol and tobacco. You can see the exact quantities you may enter with on the Norwegian Customs website. Below you can see an example of a fee-free quota. Note that if you, for example, choose not to bring strong alcohol, you can bring a slightly larger amount of wine, etc.

• 1 liter of strong alcohol
• 1,5 liters of wine 
• 2 liters of beer  
• 200 cigarettes or 250 gram tobacco

Security and insurance

Norway is generally a safe and secure country to travel in, but as a traveler it is always important to keep track of the security situation and current events in the country you plan to visit. You can often find current information via your own country’s embassy in Norway.

Before you go abroad, it is also wise to review your insurance policies. Check both your own travel insurance (home insurance) and the motorhome’s insurance. If you rent a motorhome via MyCamper in a country other than Norway, you must also check that you are allowed to bring the rented motorhome to the country. This information can be found in the vehicle’s ad under “Rules”.

Cost of living in Norway

In Norway, Norwegian kroner (NOK) is used and the prices are relatively high. Prices in the capital Oslo can be compared with cities such as London, Paris and Singapore. Naturally, you who travel with a camping vehicle have many financial benefits, and can, for example, choose slightly cheaper overnight stays and to cook many meals in the motorhome or caravan.

If you want to witness Northern Lights in Norway, discover more about it in this article .

How to get to Norway by motorhome or caravan? 

Traveling to Norway by motorhome or caravan can be an exciting adventure. Which road is best to take depends, of course, on where you live, but perhaps also on prices, what you want to see along the way and which parts of Norway you plan to visit.

To Norway from the rest of the Nordic region

If you travel from the rest of the Nordic region, you are relatively close to Norway. From Finland you can drive via the northern parts of the country, or take a ferry to Sweden, for example from Helsinki to Stockholm, and continue from there to Norway. From Denmark you can take a ferry from Copenhagen, Frederikshavn or Hirtshals ( DFDS , Fjordline or Color Line ).

To Norway from the rest of Europe

If you are starting your journey in a European country outside the Nordic region, there are many different itineraries to choose from. Ferries run between Kiel in Germany and Oslo in Norway ( Color Line ) and between Eemshaven in the Netherlands and Kristiansand in Norway ( Holland Norway Lines ). You can also drive to Denmark and take a ferry from there, or take a ferry from Germany to Sweden, and then continue from there to Norway.

Driving in Norway

The standard on Norwegian roads is generally good. Many roads, however, can be narrow and curvy, and sometimes really steep. There are plenty of tunnels and road ferries, and you have to be prepared to pay tolls for roads and ferries. If you visit Norway in the winter, it is good to know that some mountain roads may be closed.  

In Oslo, temporary bans on diesel vehicles can be issued, if the particle levels in the air exceed a certain level. This doesn’t happen very often, but to be on the safe side, you can check the current rules for diesel vehicles in Oslo at Oslo municipality’s website .

In Norway, you have to pay tolls on certain roads. Motorhomes with a total weight of less than 3.5 tons pay as ordinary cars, while caravans over 3.5 tons have special rules. The system for charging tolls is called “AutoPASS” and the fee charged is called “bompenger”.

All toll stations in Norway are automatic. The easiest way is to register the vehicle in advance is on autopass.no . If you are traveling with a rented motorhome, you should check that the owner has registered the vehicle. If you drive past the toll booths without having registered your vehicle, invoices will be sent afterwards.

Ferries in Norway

All Norwegian road ferries are subject to a fee. Prices vary depending on the length of the trips and they were generally reduced by 30 percent on 1. of  January 2022. To get a discount on the prices, you can establish an AutoPASS advance agreement and order an AutoPASS ferry card.

Another option is the payment solution FerryPay, which means that the cost is automatically deducted from the payment card that you registered with AutoPASS. This payment solution doesn’t provide a discount, but you avoid getting invoices. You can read more and establish agreements at autopassferje.no . Please note that the above payment solutions apply to the ferries that are connected to AutoPASS for ferries.

Speed limits

Passenger cars and motorhomes with a total weight of up to 7.5 tons may drive a maximum of 80 km/h on country roads and a maximum of 90, 100 or 110 on motorways depending on road sings. For caravans, a maximum of 80 km/h applies on both country roads and motorways. Note that there are plenty of speed cameras in Norway.

Driving license rules

New driving licenses (manufactured after 19. of January 2013) have the same appearance and content throughout the EEA. If the driving license is older, there may be differences in the form of transitional rules. In the EEA, however, your driving license has the same authorizations as at home, and this applies even to transitional rules. Here you can read more about driving license rules for motorhomes and caravans .

If you got a Swedish B driving license before 1. of July 1996, and it hasn’t been revoked, you may drive a motorhome heavier than 3.5 tons, provided that it is classified as a class II passenger car and not as a lorry. Even if Norway has other rules, you can drive according to the Swedish driving license rules. If you are stopped by the police, it may be a good idea to be able to show an equivalence table , which you can download from the Swedish Transport Agency’s website.

Campsites and motorhome stop sites in Norway

Campsites in norway.

There are over a thousand campsites in Norway and many are beautifully situated close to mountains, fjords, seas and lakes. Some are small and personal, while others are large and filled with lots of activities for children and adults. To find campsites that suit you, you can, for example, search via ACSI Eurocampings or at camping.no .

Motorhome stop sites in Norway

In addition to campsites, you can also find various stop sites for motorhomes in Norway, with or without service. One way to find stop sites is to look at the map on bobilplassen.no . You can also use different apps, such as “CamperContact” or “Park4Night”.

Wild camping in Norway

Wild camping is allowed in Norway as long as you stay at least 150 meters from inhabited houses, and it is also allowed to spend a night in your vehicle in a parking lot. Please note that there may be local regulations and prohibitions. In some tourist-dense areas, especially in Lofoten and northern Norway, there may be special restrictions on wild camping, especially in the summer. On these areas you may need to stay at a campsite.

When wild camping, avoid private and cultivated land. You must not litter and you are obliged to mind the nature around you. Here you can read more about wild camping.

Motorhome emptying stations in Norway

If you wild camp often or stay at motorhome stop sites without services, you may need to look for emptying stations to empty wastewater (gray water) and toilets (black water). In Norway, you can empty at certain petrol stations and environmental stations. Also, you can often drive to a campsite and empty for a fee. An overview of places to empty in Norway can you find at bobilplassen.no . You can read more about emptying and cleaning a motorhome or caravan in this article .

Do you want to know more about the nicest campsites for families in Norway? Read more about them in this article .

Norway’s national tourist routes

In Norway, there are 18 national tourist routes where you can experience art, architecture and design, together with dizzyingly beautiful nature. Along the routes you can look out over the fjords, mountains, waterfalls and glaciers, and it is often possible to stop at magnificent viewpoints. The routes run partly along the coast and partly among the mountains in northern, western and central Norway. You can find more information about tourist routes at Visit Norway .

What to see and to do in Norway

There is a lot to see and to do in Norway, and for many it is above all, the wonderful nature that attracts. You can hike, bike, try rafting or take part in experiences such as seeing the northern lights or the midnight sun. Here are some tips on popular and attractive destinations:

• Kristiansand and Sørlandet , Norway’s southernmost region, offers beaches, islands and coastal towns. Here is also the world’s largest underwater restaurant  “Under”.
• Bergen and fjords on the west coast have both nature and culture to offer. In this area you can also find the famous cliff “Trolltunga”.
• Trollstigen is a 106 kilometer long stretch of road along steep cliffs, high waterfalls and deep fjords. 
• Trondheim and Trøndelag attracts with outdoor life, pilgrimage routes to Nidarosdomen (Nidaros Cathedral), musk oxen, exclusive restaurants and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Bodø is for you who want to experience a wonderful coastal town together with fishing, boat trips, and the world’s strongest tidal current.
• Lofoten is an incredibly popular destination with its high mountains, beautiful fjords and charming fishing villages.
• Tromsø is located in northern Norway and is a perfect place for you who dream of the northern lights, whale watching and midnight sun.
• Nordkap is a steep promontory furthest north in Norway. In the nearby Alta you can learn more about the Sami culture.

Do you need some inspiration for a road trip through Norway? In this article, you’ll find different routes for an unforgettable road trip through Norway!

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Exploring the Fjords: A Extensive Guide to Traveling in Norway with your Motorhome

Norway, with its breathtaking fjords, majestic landscapes, and charming cities, is a dream destination for motorhome enthusiasts. In this guide, we will explore important things to know before your travels. Read about essential travel tips, how to prepare for the winter roads in Norway, and recommended locations suitable for heavy motorhomes.

Things to know before hitting the road!

Plan early:.

Before taking off, plan your route and research motorhome-friendly campsites , especially motorhome parking areas. Norway offers a network of well-equipped campsites with stunning views. Booking before your travels advance is advisable.

Tolls and Ferries:

Be aware of tolls on certain roads and ferries that may be necessary to cross fjords. Plan your budget accordingly and check the ferry schedules in advance, including information about motorhome parking areas on ferries.

Travel Norwegian Scenic Routes:

Take advantage of Norway’s designated scenic routes specifically designed to showcase the country’s natural beauty. These routes are well-suited for heavy motorhomes and offer numerous motorhome parking areas for stopping, relaxing, and enjoying the surroundings. In the next section we will give recommended locations that are safe to travel to with 26T motorhomes.

Wild Camping Rules:

While wild camping is allowed in many areas, familiarize yourself with the specific rules and guidelines . Respect the environment and always leave your camping spot, including motorhome parking areas, as you found it.

Waste Disposal:

Dispose of waste responsibly. Most campsites and motorhome parking areas have proper facilities for waste disposal and recycling. Be environmentally conscious during your travels.

Pack Warm Clothing:

Throughout all the four seasons Norway’s weather can be unpredictable. Pack warm clothing, waterproof gear, and sturdy hiking boots. Be prepared for chilly evenings and sudden weather changes.

Tips When Traveling to Norway in Winter:

Winter tire requirement:.

In winter, ensure your motorhome is equipped with appropriate winter tires. Norway requires for vehicles weighing over 26T to be equipped with winter tyres from November 15 th to 31 st of March.

Snow Chains:

Carry snow chains for added traction, especially if you plan to venture into snowy or mountainous areas. This is mandatory in Norway, and the specifications can be found here .

Vehicle Winterization:

Winterize your motorhome to prevent issues with freezing temperatures. Consider using antifreeze and insulating exposed pipes. We have complied a winter checklist for you!

Recommended Locations for Heavy Motorhomes:

Geiranger fjord:.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Geiranger Fjord is a must-visit. Stay at the Geiranger Camping site and enjoy the breathtaking fjord views along with convenient motorhome parking areas.

Lofoten Islands:

The Lofoten Islands offer dramatic landscapes and picturesque fishing villages. Camp at Reine Camping for an unforgettable experience surrounded by mountains and the sea, with accessible motorhome parking areas.

Trollstigen:

Drive the famous Trollstigen mountain road with its hairpin turns and panoramic views. There are several motorhome parking areas where you can stop and capture the stunning scenery.

Jotunheimen National Park:

Norway’s largest national park, Jotunheimen , is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Camp at Gjendesheim for easy access to hiking trails and stunning alpine scenery, including motorhome parking areas.

Things to Take With You:

Camping essentials:.

If you are planning to go camping, pack good quality camping essentials such as a reliable tent, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment. Many campsites provide facilities, but it’s always good to be prepared.

Navigation Tools:

Invest in a good GPS navigation system to help you navigate Norway’s winding roads. Additionally, offline maps and a physical road atlas can be invaluable, especially when looking for motorhome parking areas.

Power Adapters:

Norway uses the European standard Type C and Type F power outlets. Ensure you have the right adapters to charge your devices at campsites, including the motorhome parking areas.

Outdoor Gear:

Bring outdoor gear for activities like hiking and fishing. Norway’s natural wonders are best explored on foot, and having the right equipment enhances the experience.

Embarking on a motorhome adventure in Norway is an exhilarating journey into nature’s wonders. With careful planning, respect for the environment, and an adventurous spirit, your road trip through the land of fjords will undoubtedly be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So, pack your bags, rev up your 26-tonner , and get ready to explore the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture that Norway has to offer. Safe travels!

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Visiting Norway by Motorhome

When looking at photos of Norway, it’s easy to feel like this magnificent country is ripped right out of the pages of a fairytale. With glittering fjords, dramatic coastlines, soaring mountain ranges and more, Norway is filled with incredible natural beauty. The only way to believe it exists is to see it for yourself. So for your next holiday, consider visiting Norway by motorhome! This will give you the freedom to plan your own route and take in as many sights as possible. Norway is best explored behind the wheel of a vehicle rather than public transport, and a motorhome means you’ll always have a place to rest your head.

Getting to Norway

It used to be far easier to drive from the UK to Norway, as until 2008 there was a direct ferry from Newcastle to Bergen. Instead, you now can take one of the other routes into Europe from the UK. You could take the Eurotunnel to Calais from Folkstone, which takes about 35 minutes. You could take the ferry from Dover to Calais, which takes about 90 minutes. Or you can take the ferry to the Netherlands , either Harwich to Hoek van Holland, Hull to Rotterdam or Newcastle to Amsterdam. 

From the north of France, your easiest route is crossing through Belgium via Antwerp and then driving through northern Germany. You can easily stop in Hamburg for the night. Then you can continue your drive north through Denmark and take the ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand, which only take two hours and fifteen minutes. 

From the north of the Netherlands, you’ll drive east until you cross the border to Germany by Hengelo. You can either stop at Hamburg for the night or continue to the Danish border and rest there. You can take the same ferry to Norway.

Camping in Norway

Unlike many other European countries, wild camping is permitted in Norwa y. This comes under the law of allemannsretten, also known as the ‘right to roam’. You can wild camp next to fjords, lakes and in the open country. You cannot camp on farmland or cultivated land. You can stay somewhere for a maximum of two nights.

If you’d prefer to stay at a campsite, here are the best options for camping in Norway with a motorhome!

1.  Adventure Camp Mehamn - Finnmark

Looking for a peaceful retreat for the evening? This campsite is situated by the harbour of Mehamn, the most northern fishing village in Europe. You’re within walking distance of all local facilities, including a supermarket, restaurant and bakery. On-site you’ll find an incredible seafood restaurant -featuring only local produce- and opportunities to go deep-sea fishing and on a jet ski safari.

Price: £33 per night for an electric pitch, four adults, one night.

Location: Vidar Karlstad, 9770 Mehamn, Norway

71.037992, 27.835307

2.  Neset Camping - Byglandsfjord

This peaceful, 4-star campsite offers an unfiltered view of Byglandsfjorden. It offers spacious pitches right next to the water, allowing you to start your day with a swim! There are three modern amenity blocks spread across the campsite, and over 200 power supply points.

Price: £11 per night for the low season, £35 NOK per night for the high season

Location: Setesdalsvegen 2033, 4741 Byglandsfjord, Norway

58.688126, 7.802515

3.  Landa Park - Forsand

Landa Park differs from other campsites in Norway due to the unique atmosphere, as you’re given the chance to stay in a real prehistoric village. It’s a great base for many great hikes in the area, such as Preikstolen and Kjerag. You can rent a bike or kayak from the campsite, or go on one of their organised fishing trips.

Price: £20 per night for one person, £4 per extra person

Location: Haukalivegen 24, 4110 Forsand, Norway

58.897582, 6.134995

4.  Ringøy Camping - Kinsarvik

Situated by a fjord, this campsite offers spacious grassy pitches, where you can choose your own spot. There is a rowing boat available on-site, which guests can use to explore the fjord for themselves. You can also end your day around a cosy campfire using the wood provided.

Price: £13 per night, £3 per person, £4 for electricity

Location: Kinsarvikvegen 1001, 5780 Kinsarvik, Norway

60.441166, 6.777950

5.  Kjørnes Camping & Cabins - Sogndal

You’ll find this campsite only 3km from the centre of Sogndal, making it a prime location to explore this incredible area. Most attractions are within an hour drive of the site. Dogs are permitted on site as long as they’re kept on a leash.

Price: £30 per night for two adults, £4 for electrical hookup

Location: Kjørnes, 6856 Sogndal, Norway

61.211422, 7.120314

Instead of choosing just one of these great campsites in Norway, plan a road trip along the fjords to stay at all of them!

Driving in Norway

Driving in Norway isn’t too different to other European countries. You also drive on the right there, unlike in the UK. It’s compulsory to have third party insurance, and to carry a red warning triangle and at least one fluorescent yellow vest in your car. 

Norway is home to harsh winters, so make sure to do your research on winter driving before you come. Your winter tyres must have a minimum of 3mm tread. From the 1st of November until the second Monday after Easter Sunday, you’re permitted to use studded tyres or snow chains. In northern Norway (Nordland, Troms and Finnmark), this period lasts from the 16th of October to the 30th of April. 

Some roads in Norway will have toll costs. This is collected automatically through an auto PASS . You can order these by post, and you pay a NOK 200 deposit for one. Simply attach the tag to the inside of your front windscreen and it will automatically work.

Best motorhome destinations in Norway

Now that you know where you’ll stay in Norway, and how you’ll get there, it’s time to consider the places to visit during your trip! It’s difficult to choose between all the great motorhome destinations in Norway, so a road trip is definitely in order to visit as many as possible. But take your time and be sure to rest enough, Norway is simply a country you might have to explore in several trips. 

Here are the top motorhome destinations in Norway:

On the southern coast, you’ll find Oslo, the capital of Norway. Oslo is renowned for its green spaces, museums, nautical history and delicious seafood. Travellers are often quick to dismiss Oslo, hurrying on to the natural sights of Norway, but we recommend taking at least two days in this bustling city. Visit The Viking Planet , a digital Viking museum, and then head to the world’s best-preserved Viking ships: Oseberg, Gokstad and Tune. Next, you can wander around the world’s largest sculpture park, Vigeland park, with a warm cup of coffee. 

Oslo is also recognised for its modern architecture, such as the modern quarter of the Bjørvika district. Twelve skyscrapers make up the Barcode, a stunning skyline along the water. Finally, head to Oslo’s pride and joy: the Nobel Peace Center. Every year, Oslo has the honour of awarding the Nobel Peace Prize. Learn about previous winners and their activities, as well as the history of Alfred Nobel.

Bergen is considered to be far more scenic than Oslo. It is surrounded by seven mountains and several fjords, including Sognefjord which is Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. Travellers often struggle to choose between visiting Oslo or Bergen, to which we say “Why not do both?”.

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Bergen is Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with restaurants, workshops, studios and boutique shops. It’s also home to the Bryggen Museum which houses displays and artefacts dating back to the city’s early settlers in the 14th century. Head down to the Bergenhus Fortress Museum

When travelling to Lofoten in Norway, it’s important to pack for any occasion, as the weather is known to be highly unpredictable! So don’t fret if you wake up to a rainy day, as you might end your day in some glorious sunshine. 

The Lofoten islands are a popular destination, so make sure to book your campsites in advance! The islands don’t really have the capacity for wild camping, so it’s better to pitch at a designated site for your time here. Given their extremely western location, you might decide to plan the Lofoten islands for a later part of your trip, and we recommend taking at least two nights in this gorgeous area.

Lofoten is the ideal place to see the northern lights if you’re here during winter. You can even book a trip to go horseback riding under the northern lights, or take another designated tour. Don’t worry if you plan to visit in summer, you can still enjoy the midnight sun, which is also stunning!

Only go hiking in Lofoten if you’re highly experienced and ready for a challenge, as it’s known to be one of the most difficult areas. If you’re determined to hike in Lofoten, we recommend visiting in the summer, from June onwards. Alternatively, you could always hike elsewhere in Norway during your motorhome holiday. 

The Geirangerfjord is another UNESCO World Heritage Site - Norway is simply filled with them! This fjord definitely deserves a spot on your Norway travel itinerary as experts aren’t sure how much longer you’ll be able to see it before it collapses.

You can see the fjord from various viewpoints, such as Ljeon, or go directly to the fjord itself. Viewing it from a viewpoint also allows you to see the waterfall powering down towards the fjord. You can also get great photos of the fjord from the Geiranger Skywalk at Dalsnibba, where you’ll see it from 1,500 metres above sea level. This viewpoint is open between May and October, depending on road and weather conditions.

We recommend visiting the Geirangerfjord through a scenic cruise . A boat trip allows you to ride along the length of the fjord, witnessing the stunning scenery and landscape as you go. This will allow you to pass the two most famous waterfalls, known as the ‘Suitor’ and the ‘Seven Sisters Falls’.

Geiranger itself is a small village, with approximately 250 residents. It’s a lovely and serene place to rest after visiting the fjord, with great overnight parking spots. You can visit the Norwegian Fjord Center, which offers a multimedia presentation on the history of the region and its inhabitants. 

Kristiansand

Deep in southern Norway, you’ll find Kristiansand. It’s particularly known for its old town, Posebyen, which is filled with traditional wooden houses. Be transported back to the old days of Norway as you stroll with a cup of coffee to keep you warm. 

In contrast, the centre is filled with striking architecture, such as the neo-Gothic Kristiansand Cathedral, which opened in 1885. Follow a tour of this incredible building with a visit to the Sørlandets Museum, which is filled with Norwegian art spanning from the 1800s to today. 

You can spend your afternoon at the southeastern shoreline, by visiting the Bystranda city beach and the 17th-century Christiansholm Fortress. If you’re a fan of seafood, head to the Fiskebrygga quay, where you’ll find fishmongers selling their catch of the day.

Ready to visit Norway by motorhome? Be warned, you’ll be desperate to go back again! But as we said, you might need several trips to do this country justice. Or aim to travel for at least three weeks and immerse yourself in the stunning wonders of Norway. This country is a sight to behold and the perfect destination for your next motorhome holiday. So pack your bags, plan your route and let the Norwegian adventure begin!

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How to plan your motorhome trip to Norway

Any motorhome owner will tell you how magical it is to travel to beautiful places in the comfort of their own private retreat. The beauty of having this opportunity in Europe is that our continent affords so much opportunity for exploration by road. If you’re thinking about your next big adventure, you can do no better than a motorhome trip to Norway. 

As a country with very liberal laws on wild camping and trekking and so much jaw-dropping scenery to appreciate, it’s the ideal destination for a motorhome holiday.

READ MORE : here are our tips on how to be a sustainable traveller

Why Norway?

Norway is full of Scandinavian charm and history, including its famous fjords, Viking legends, cultural heritage and even quaint fishing villages. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply want to cuddle under a natural light show in a glass igloo, Norway won’t disappoint. In fact, touring the country in a motorhome is an ideal way to experience the country.

Norway was also voted the  happiest country in the world in 2017 , so expect a pleasant stay filled with welcoming smiles and a polite community.

Get started on planning your trip with our tips below. 

Essentials before you go

Make sure you brush up on the country’s laws and customs before you go. Don’t assume anything. Norway isn’t an EU country and therefore does have some different laws when it comes to customs . As you’ll likely have food with you when entering the country, make sure everything you bring is legal and in the right quantities. 

Make sure you place a UK sticker on your motorhome so that it is clearly visible to anyone following behind you. Likewise, as driving is essential to your trip, bring the documentation that proves your vehicle is fully licensed and road-worthy. It’s also important that you cover yourself with motorhome insurance for peace of mind and statutory compliance . 

Plan your route

There aren’t any car ferries from Britain to Norway at this time, so you’ll need to travel to mainland Europe to access the Norwegian land mass. You can take the Eurotunnel or a ferry to the Netherlands, Belgium or France before continuing on. Clearly, you need to go for a substantial chunk of time to recover from some extensive driving to get there. 

As wild camping is permitted, you can stay for free right next to the fjords and lakes. You mustn’t stay anywhere longer than two nights, however, so be sure to plan a route that fits this rule. If you prefer facilities, there are plenty of campsites all around the country, often at less than £30 per night. This makes it an affordable way to see the country in comfort. 

Wherever you camp, make sure you’re a considerate traveller and respect the Norwegian countryside by employing a Leave No Trace policy, allowing others to equally enjoy its beauty.

READ MORE : Our team put together this awesome packing guide for every traveller

What to pack

You’ll need to pack according to the season, as with any holiday. If you go to Northern Norway during peak summer, you’ll experience what is known as the ‘midnight sun’, meaning the sun doesn’t set and it’s still bright at night. Prepare for this with adequate window coverings, as you may struggle to sleep. 

Spring, summer and autumn are usually warm, so you should prepare for mild weather. Pack to explore the many sensational hikes and tails with hiking gear, trail guides and equipment.

Generally, the further north, the colder it is. This means if you plan to travel in winter then you’ll need to prepare for the cold weather and snow with appropriate clothing and winter tyres. 

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• Jun 6, 2021
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Traveling in Norway with a CAMPER VAN

We rented a camper-van with Cabin Campers and off we went on a 5 day road trip in West and South Norway. Here are our tips and itinerary (with map).

The ITINERARY

We have been trying to travel as much as possible inside Norway, and what best way to do it than with a Camper-van.

We rented the Camper-van from Cabin Campers and off we went on a 5 day road trip, starting and ending in Oslo, and driving mostly through West and South of Norway.

To be honest, we didn't have a clear plan of where to go when we started this trip. That is also one big reason why we wanted to travel "with our house on our backs", so we could decide where to go and what to visit along the way.

The truth is, although it was end of May, which is supposed to be the start of summer in Norway, the weather was not the best. So our plan was to follow the sun and see where that would lead us.

Since we already knew most of the southern coast (blog post HERE ), and quite a lot of the interior part of Telemark (blog post HERE ) from previous trips, we decided to concentrate our trip around Folgefonna national park and the Stavanger coast line.

Because of this, we drove quite a lot (4 to 5 hours strait) on our first and last day so we could have more time in the areas we were more interested in visiting. But if you have more than 5 days, then I totally recommend adding more stops along the road we took in Telemark and on the southern road.

Click HERE for the map with pins

The CAMPER-VAN

We decided to rent the van with Cabin Campers firstly because they have the coolest decorated interiors. Like the name says, the vans are built and decorated to look and feel like a little cabin on wheels.

Some other reasons why Cabin Campers where ideal to us are, the van has a full equipped kitchen with a stove, a fridge and a sink with a tap with water. The van also comes with everything you need included, like the bed sheets, kitchen utensils, etc.

And maybe the most important reason of all, it was the perfect size vehicle!

It was small enough so that it was easy to drive, park and didn't need to pay extra costs in tools and boat tickets (it is under 6 meters long), but still big enough that we could live comfortably inside, with a nice sized bed, a table and a kitchen.

It was my first time traveling on a camper-van and I absolutely loved it! We even talked about buying one for ourselves!

When traveling with a house on wheels you get to stop whenever and wherever you want. Its total freedom and zero worries! So much so that we had no idea what time or day it was.

Parking overnight

Finding a parking spot to sleep is very easy in Norway since the law says you can park anywhere you want unless there is a sign that says otherwise, or it is a private area.

This gives you 3 different options: park on motorhome rest areas (free), on camping sites (pay), or, like we did, park wherever there is space to park (free).

This really depends on what type of experience you would like to have. You can even mix the 3 options depending on what is more handy at the time.

On city and town centers is almost impossible to park, since they try to be as car free as possible.

As you might have noticed by now, our camper-van does not had a toilet/shower.

This was not a problem for us, especially because we didn't want to have the trouble to have to clean/empty the toilet containers, etc.

But mostly because Norway has its roads well equipped with amazing public toilets that are open 24/7. Some of them are very architectonical and interesting to visit.

I found that most public toilets were well maintained, clean and even had heating.

Gas stations and public buildings like libraries and museums also have quite nice toilets open for the public to use.

Driving & Ferry boats

Driving in Norway can be an adventure! The roads are not the best and most of the times as soon as you leave the "high-way" you'll see yourself in a curvy narrow road in the middle of the forest, next to a fjord, on a 15 km long tunnel or on top of a high mountain.

Despite everything I found that people respect camper-vans and stopped to facilitate us driving by.

Whilst on a road trip in Norway you will for sure have to cross a fjord on a ferry boat at least once. These boats are new, fast and constantly going. And since our van was under 6m, we payed the same amount for the ticket as a normal passengers car.

Energy & Fuel

Cabin Campers vans are 100% prepared with solar panels so you can charge your phone and have interior lights.

They also have a heating system that works extraordinarily good. In just minutes we had our van super warm and the warmth would stay during the whole night.

The stove is connected to a gas bottle, and the sink tap to a water tank. This made it possible for us to cook our own meals during the whole trip.

Filling the van tank with gasoline was also very easy! I think in total on this trip we spent around 1.500 kr in gas.

This trip was in the end of May, which is the beginning of summer in Norway, and the days start to get very long. So we would have day light until around 1:00 a.m.

I really enjoyed this, and recommend everyone to travel around this time of the year. Firstly because you are able to enjoy the day until very late. It gives you varied opportunities to visit things, sleep or drive at different times of the day.

Secondly because there are not a lot of tourists, like you would get in the peek of summer. And you can still get amazing sunny weather.

After driving for 5 hours straight, our first stop was a refreshing one!

Låttefoss is a 165-metre tall waterfall that consists of two separate streams that flow down from the lake Lotevatnet, and as they fall, they join together in the middle of the waterfall, just before going under an old stone bridge.

You cross this bridge while driving on the Norwegian national road nr.13 and its a bit of a surprise if you are not expecting it because studently a gigantic waterfall emerges from one side and your car gets completely wet

This waterfall is extremely touristic, and so I was a bit afraid to be disappointed, but I was stunned! It is beautiful!

BONDHUS GLACIER / BONDHUSDALEN

Our next point of interest was the Bondhusdalen in Folgefonna national park. On our way there we stopped in Odda town for a bit of food shopping and snooping around the cute traditional streets. Then it was a quick and scenic drive thought valleys until we reach the parking lot where you start your hike to the lake.

Folgefonna has 3 glaciers on top of its mountains. The glaciers were growing during the 90s but have unfortunately been retreating since then.

The hike we took until Bondhusvatnet is an easy hike. A round trip takes about two hours. The trail is actually called Ice Road and it wasn’t built for tourists, but rather to transport ice, which was used for refrigeration in the towns and villages up and down the coast (yeah, just like in the beginning of the Frozen movie).

If you want to go a bit further there is a trail to the far end of the lake with a better view of the glacier. On this trail you will also encounter a stunning beach. It was definitely one of the most scenic hikes of my life!

STEINSDALSFOSSEN

From Folgefonna we continued our trip and took a ferry from Jondal to Tørvikbygd to get to Steindalsfossen.

Steindalsfossen is a 46 metres high waterfall in the village of Steine. From the parking lot, the path goes along the waterfall, up a hill, and behind it, where visitors can walk directly behind the powerful running water. It is a really cool experience!

We learned that this waterfall was actually an accident! It didn't existed a waterfall here, but due to some ice shifting during a winter storm, the river water was redirected to this cliff on a farmers land, creating therefore a waterfall. After that, people from all over Norway started to visit this waterfall making it one of the most visited places in Norway.

The GOLDFISH LAKE

Our next stop was a place I accidently found while searching for things to see and visit on the area. It is known as the Goldfish lake, because its waters all filled with gigantic orange and yellow fish.

It was supposed to be a quick stop, just to see if there were goldfish or not. But it ended to be one of our favorite stops on the whole trip.

The weather was incredible, the lake was beautiful and there were indeed lots of goldfish. They had a little pic-nic / grill corner at the park so we decided to stay for a couple of hours and cook our lunch there.

There is also a small beach where you can go for a swim (together with the fish). And this was clearly not a touristic spot so we even met a couple of friendly locals.

The zinc mines ALLMAN GORGE

We continued our trip heading south, with the plan to reach the coast close to Stavanger. On the way we had an important point marked on our map: The Allmannajuvet zinc mines in Sauda.

I say important because Peter Zumthor (one of the best architects of all time) has designed the new facilities at Allmannajuvet gorge which are composed by 3 buildings: an exhibition gallery, a café/restaurant, and the parking and toilets for visitors. And it was as incredible as I imagined it would be!

You can also visit the mines, which everyone says is a really good experience. Unfortunately they were closed when we were there.

The mines were in operation from 1881 to 1899. In order to reach the entrance of the mine, a spectacular road with bridges and climbing bits was constructed along the wild river. We were a bit sad not being able to visit, but there is always a next time.

We had already visited Stavanger a long time ago, but since it was on the way we decided to make a quick stop, mostly to visit the Oil museum and the Fargegata.

The museum really surprised me! I learned a lot about the discovery of Oil in Norway and the impact it had on the economy, culture and on what Norway turned out to be. Also, I loved how they had the actual real "objects" on exhibition. It was impressive and a bit scary as well. I totally recommend it!

Then we walked a bit thought the city, took some photos on the famous colorful street and on the old town with the white traditional houses.

But our initial plan didn't really involve Stavanger city center but the nearby beaches and culture/architecture points along the coast line.

Unfortunately the weather was not great... well, it was raining the whole time, as it always was every time I visited the Stavanger area...

So visiting the huge and beautiful beaches was not really as I had imagined it. Still, it was worth it, at least to visit one beach, since they are very different from the ones closer to Oslo. Bigger and "wilder" I would say.

I also had a lot of cultural and architecture points marked in my map on this part of the coast, so we made sure we stopped in every single one of them.

Our favorite stops along the coast were:

Reaching Sola beach is a very strange thing, since the beach lies side by side with the Stavanger airport. So when you are driving there you feel like you are doing something illegal or that maybe you have the wrong address.

Then you reach a street where on the left is the airport landing roads, and on the right is the beach dunes.

The beach itself is very beautiful and absolutely huge! Probably one of the biggest beaches I have seen in Norway. Here you have the actual ocean, not a fjord, which makes it so much like a "real" beach. It even reminded me the beach at my hometown in Portugal.

Sola Ruinkirke

This Church was first built around 1150 and was in use until 1842, when it began to decay. Then a painter bought the church ruins in 1871, and converted it into his private home. After 1940, the Germans took over the area and demolished the church.

From 1992 to 1995 the church was restored and rehabilitated in a mixed style where old and new where put together. Louis Kloster was the architect who won the competition and, in my opinion, he did an amazing job!

For those of you who like architecture with well executed details, this one is a must see.

Varhaug gamle kirkegård

This cemetery is on the farm Varhaug, (so expect so see lots of cows and sheep), and it has the most amazing view to the ocean.

We saw the sign of a culture point on the road and decided to check it out.

We found out that the church square is from the Middle Ages. Around 1200, the first church was built here, and there are many indications that it was laid on an old pagan place of worship.

I wouldn't say it is a spectacular church, but it is definitely one of those places where you can feel the history and the location looks like out of a movie.

Our last stop before returning to Oslo was Helleren. We arrived at the area already quite late during the night and got in awe with the rocky landscape. The narrow road curved around big blocks of stone while descending the scary edge of a steep rocky mountain until reaching the valley.

It was only in the morning, when we woke up and looked around, that we saw the beauty of this place. We had parked the car to spend the night right under the same slab as the two famous houses.

Helleren forms a natural roof and shelter that has been used by humans for thousands of years. The slab is large and the drop falls at a depth of 10 meters. There are two houses built under the slab. Their roof is not a "real" roof because Helleren protects them. Both houses are from the 19th century, but parts of the buildings can be much older. Probably there has been settlements in Helleren since the 16th century.

The houses are a very short walk from the parking lot and are open the whole year, 24/7.

You have to be careful, since they are very old, but you can visit the inside and see how people used to live here. It was a magical experience!

It was a great way to end our road trip, with sun and a scenic view, but unfortunately it was time to return to Oslo and deliver our Van.

I can sincerely say that this was one of my favorite trips in Norway, mostly due to the fact that we had so much freedom and so little worries.

No needing to plan where, when and how really gives you a totally different experience while traveling. That is why renting a camper van is such a good idea! I find Norway one of the best countries to do this since it is so easy to stop, sleep and visit whenever, wherever and whatever you want along the way.

A big thanks to Cabin Campers for partnering with us on this travel! We were really happy using one of their vans and will gladly do it again soon!

Watch HERE the videos from our trip:

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Touring Norway by Motorhome

Want to tour Norway by motorhome or campervan? This hands-on guide includes all the practical information you’ll need to know before you go!

Norway in a Nutshell

Key facts for touring norway by motorhome.

• Weather – for a snow-free journey, aim to be travelling in the far north in June, July and August where you can experience beautifully sunny days (and nights inside the Arctic Circle, where the sun will shine all night).
• Currency – Norway uses the Norwegian Krone (NOK) – and 10 NOK is roughly £1.
• Insurance – most motorhome insurance policies will cover Norway – check your policy. If you have breakdown insurance, check the repatriation limit, as we’ve been told it’s very expensive (several thousand pounds) to be taken home on a flatbed, and repairs in-country can be prohibitively expensive.
• Language – locals speak Norwegian but generally speak flawless English too.
• Place to Stay – Norway has a ‘right to roam’ law which enables motorhomes to free camp across much of the country. In addition there’s a good network of aires and campsites.
• Mobile Phone and Internet – although not in the EU, several UK-based telco companies offer pay-as-you-go or contract SIM cards where you can use your UK allowance in Norway, subject to restrictions. We use Three’s Internet with Legs SIM cards in Norway.
• Getting there from the UK – there is no direct ferry from the UK to Norway or Denmark, so gear up for a road trip folks! There are various bridge and ferry options available once you’re in Denmark.
• Renting a Van – if you don’t have the time to drive your own motorhome, there are several companies renting vans in Norway. Expect prices of roughly £700 to £2000 a week for a two berth panel van.
• Customs – Norway has customs controls limiting the import of alcohol, as well as other foodstuffs (you can’t bring in potatoes for example). Check the Norwegian customs website for more details.
• Pet Dogs – as well as a valid Pet Passport, your pet dog will need a vet-administered worming treatment before entering Norway, like when returning to the UK.
• Roads – generally well-maintained but speed limits are low. The fastest routes from Oslo in the south to the North Cape (about 1200 miles) go through Sweden, so Sweden’s sometimes used as a ‘back door’ into Norway. Many roads and tunnels are narrow, and you’ll need to allow more time for journeys.
• Headlights – you legally need your dipped headlights on when driving, even in bright daylight.
• Compulsory Equipment – download the AA’s latest requirements PDF to see what you need to carry.
• Tyres – check the AA’s page for the latest details . If you plan to travel to Norway in winter, be aware of the difficult road conditions and plan to use studded or winter tyres.
• LPG (Gas) – available from limited locations across Norway. Plan in advance to avoid running out.
• Tolls – Norway has various toll roads across the country but they aren’t massively expensive, and some are hard to avoid.
• Ferries – Norway’s coastline is enormously indented with fjords and peppered with islands, so you’ll most likely be using lots of ferries. They don’t need to be booked, but the costs increase dramatically for vans over 6 metres long, and for each additional metre.

Great Places to Motorhome to in Norway

Norway’s packed full of simply incredible places. Here are just a few of the ones we’ve visited. Click on the links below to get the full blog post, with  the GPS co-ordinates of where we stayed overnight.

• The North Cape ( blog post here )
• Midnight Sun in the Arctic ( blog post here )
• Senja Island ( blog post here )
• The Lofoten Islands ( blog post here )
• The Saltstraumen, Northern Lights and the Coast Route South from Bodø (first  blog post here )
• The Trollstigen Pass ( blog post here )
• The Dalsnibba Viewpoint and Geirangerfjord ( blog post here )
• The Briksdal Glacier ( blog post here )
• The Flåm Railway ( blog post here )
• The Village of Sand ( blog post here )
• Pulpit Rock ( blog post here )
• Oslo ( blog post here )

We found the Norwegian Tourist Board website to be really helpful in our planning ( www.visitnorway.com ). The site does a great job of guiding you around the attractions of this magnificent country. If you search the site for ‘motorhome’ you’ll also find details of service points at petrol stations and official parking areas.

The North Cape (Nordkapp)

Steinsvik, Finnmark

Senja Island

The Lofoten Islands

The Saltstraumen, Northern Lights and the Coast Route South from Bodø

The Trollstigen Pass

The Dalsnibba Viewpoint above Geirangerfjord

The Briksdal Glacier

The Flåm Railway

The Village of Sand

Pulpit Rock

A Quick Look at Norway – Some Short Videos

A quick demo of a motorhome using one of Norway’s many ferries.

Beautiful Haukland Beach on the Lofoten archipelago in the Arctic.

Trollstigen,  one of the most famous National Tourist Routes in Norway.

The Saltstraumen  strait with one of the strongest tidal currents in the world.

Nordkapp , the northmost point of continental Europe.

An out-of-this-world campsite near the famous  Briksdal Glacier.

How Much Does It Cost to Tour Norway?

Norway has a reputation for being incredibly expensive to travel. The great news for anyone with their own motorhome or campervan is this: that simply doesn’t apply to you! If you stock up well with food before entering Scandinavia, and limit eating out or buying local beer and wine, you can extensively travel this incredible country for not much money.

On our tour in 2016 we spent 11 weeks (78 days) in the summer in Norway and averaged less than £30 a day for two people plus a dog . That included all of our day-to-day costs: diesel, supermarket shopping before we entered Norway and restocking when we left, shopping in Norway, road tolls, LPG, overnight stays, visiting a museum in Oslo, ferries and so on. It didn’t include our one-off costs such as insurance and van depreciation, nor did it include the diesel, bridges or ferries to get to Norway in the first place.

* we stocked up with around £200 of food before we arrived and spent a further £100 when left to replenish empty cupboards. This additional £300 is included in the £15 per person per day average.

Norway by Motorhome – In Depth

When to go to norway.

Unless you are a fan of driving in the snow and ice, summer is the time to visit. The road networks seem to be fully open from the end of May until October and peak season is July, when the Norwegians have their summer holidays. The country is huge so there is plenty of room for everyone, but it’s worth making note that the motorhome parking in popular places and cities will get full in July. We arrived in the north of the country in mid-July, so by the time we hit the ‘hot spots’, we were out of peak season.

Midsummer is a huge thing in Scandinavia, so if you fancy a party make sure you are there for then. Getting up into the Arctic Circle during June and July will let you experience the Midnight Sun – we recommend eye masks as it really messed up our sleep patterns even though we blacked out the van as much as possible. From the end of August onwards, if you are lucky, you may get to see the Northern Lights too (the further north you are, the better chance you’ll have).

The weather in summer was generally warm, even in the Arctic. We needed sun cream on a fair few days, and sported shorts from time to time. Generally we’d be OK in walking boots, jeans and T-shirts with jumpers and a light coat.

Driving Your Own Motorhome to Norway

There are no ferry routes running between the UK and Norway, or even between the UK and Denmark, so it’s road trip time folks unless you find a freight service to ship your van across the North Sea. You have these options (with tons of variants in between):

• Fastest Route – EuroTunnel to France. Then drive across France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany to Denmark. Drive to Hirtshals in northern Denmark and take a ferry to Kristiansand. Google Maps shows this route as 1116 miles, and taking (an optimistic) 21 hours of driving, tunnel and ferries.
• Route via Sweden – as above, but instead of taking a ferry from Denmark to Norway, drive across the Storebælt toll bridge in Denmark, then the Øresund toll bridge to cross into Sweden. From there drive across the land border into Norway. Latest motorhome costs of the the Øresund bridge . Latest motorhome costs for the Storebælt bridge .
• Route from the Baltics – on a longer European tour you can take a ferry from Tallinn in Estonia across the Gulf of Finland to Helsinki. From there, you can drive north through Finland, across the Arctic Circle and cross into Norway either directly (makes sense if you’re heading for Nordkapp), or via Sweden (if you’re heading to the Lofoten Islands).

Whichever route you opt for, before driving into Scandinavia, make sure you’re well stocked up on tinned and dried food, if you want to avoid some of Norway’s high supermarket costs. Many motorhomes are well weighed down with wine and beer too, but be careful as Norway has strict limits on how much alcohol you can import.

Our Motorhome Route to Norway

In January 2016 we set off to tour Scandinavia. As we were aiming to get there for summer, we had a few months to spare. We spent a few weeks in the  ski resorts of France , before taking the Mont Blanc Tunnel into Italy. After eating our way across the country with plenty of ice creams, we nipped into  San Marino before catching a ferry to Croatia to start our trip north.

Through Slovenia, and Austria into Slovakia. Over  Tatras Mountains  to Poland before driving up through the Baltics – Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia from where we we caught the ferry to  Helsinki, Finland . Through Finland we took in the  Wife Carrying World Championships  in Sonkajarvi, and popped into Santa Claus’ home in the  Arctic Circle . Crossing into Norway we made our way to  Nordkapp, the top of Europe , before starting our trip south along the Norwegian coast.

We took over two months travelling down  through Norway , surrounded by stunning scenery at every turn. In Oslo we stood on the deck of  Amundsen’s ship, The Fram , before heading East into Sweden. We took the Oresund Bridge into Denmark and after a quick tour of the country we drove across the Netherlands to catch the ferry from the Hook of Holland to Harwich.

Renting a Motorhome in Norway

If you’ve not got the time to drive your own van to Norway, there are a fair few options for renting a van. The most obvious consideration, other than cost, is where you can pick the van up and drop it off in Norway. If your main interest is the Lofoten Islands and the Arctic, and you’ve only got a week or two, then a pick up and drop off in Tromsø or on the Lofotens themselves will make far more sense than Oslo or Bergen.

Companies like McRent ( mcrent.eu ) will provide you with a van in Norway, for a premium compared with Germany, but again if you’re limited for time it’ll be worth it. We also saw some small ‘Arctic Campers’ in summer on the Lofotens ( arcticcampers.no ), which were probably a good budget option to get a feel for the country.

Another option is to use AirBnB ( www.airbnb.co.uk ). Quite a few Norwegian van owners rent their motorhomes out by the night, and may prove to be the most flexible and cheapest option. Make sure the owner is agreeing to you driving the van around when you make the booking, and they’re not just renting it out as a static base.

Finding Places to Overnight in Norway

This is where Norway becomes into its own for the motorhomer. Norway, like much of Scandinavia, has an  ancient right of freedom to roam , which was enshrined in law in 1957 –  allemannsretten . Since the law was written way before modern motorhomes appeared, it doesn’t specifically apply to them, but the spirit of the law includes us van-travellers ( there’s an interesting article here  – in Norwegian but you can use Google Translate to read it). The general spirit is you can free camp somewhere under these conditions, although we came across exceptions to some of these rules:

• You need to be 150m from dwellings
• Stay no longer than 48 hours
• Don’t stay if there is an official sign requesting you don’t park there overnight
• Don’t put out awnings, chairs and so on
• Also, be aware of the rules around campfires in summer

In practice we found we could have free camped across most of the country, but we opted to pay for some aires and campsites so we could be in wonderful spots like  Reine  and  Briksdal . Note that unlike much of Europe, caravans use the same areas as motorhomes for free camping in Norway; don’t be surprised to see them parked up alongside you in an aire or car park.

We used these resources to find parking places:

• The park4night.com database and tablet application – in various languages with translation packs
• The  campingcar-infos.com database – in French
• The  ourbumble.com blog – in English
• A leaflet called ‘Camping’ from the Norway tourist info which unfolds to a big map which shows the picnic/rest spots – many of which were simply beautiful, safe, free and often with toilets available

Aires typically charged 10 to 15 Nok a night (£10 to £15), although the one at Reine charged an outrageous 30 Nok (:-)), made palatable by the simply stunning scenery. Campsites came in at about £18 to £25 a night with electricity and showers charged in addition, so we used our own facilities. In total we paid £378 (£52 of which was to park for the night at Nordkapp as entry was 260 Nok each) which roughly equates to £4.80 a night for all of our overnight parking and camping.

Driving in Norway

Norway’s a fairly easy country to drive around in the summer months, with the main challenge being the narrowness of the roads in some places (especially with other motorhomes flying towards you).

Norway is big, certainly bigger than we realised. We drove 4849 kilometres and that only took us around the edge. However, it isn’t just the distances in Norway that you need to consider, the roads are slow, very slow. There are two reasons for this; first they are twisting, wiggly, seemingly impossible roads and second the speed limits.

Outside of towns and villages the speed limit is usually 80 kph (50 mph), but in many places you’ll be lucky to consistently get close to the maximum speed. There are a lot of single track roads with passing places (marked by a white M on a blue background) which will slow you down. For this reason, many people use Sweden or Finland’s faster roads to get to where you want to start, or to get back from the end of your Norway journey. Their roads are also toll-free.

Expect to spend quite a bit of time in tunnels, some lit, some unlit, which may help explain the road rule that you need your lights on all the time. One day we drove 20 kilometres, 18 of which were in three tunnels. We marvelled at the ones with roundabouts in them and those that spiralled up through a mountain. In some we would descend down for kilometres until we were under the sea, then crawl our way back out for several more kilometres. Some are narrow, to the point passing places are used inside them, but these ones were generally not busy. Norway also has the longest road tunnel in the world (over 15 miles long!) at Lærdal, but if you aren’t in a rush then we’d recommend taking the  Aurlandsfjellet Tourist Route  which runs over the mountain above it.

There are several Tourist Routes across the country and most of them are fantastic drives ( here’s a good summary of the best ). It is worth sitting down and doing some planning, as to what you want to see before you set off, as to visit the main sights or drive the tourist routes you’ll normally need to either take ferries or pass road tolls to get there. We used a  Michelin Scandinavia Map  for planning and tracking where we had been, but it didn’t have enough detail on it for navigating by, so we used the excellent maps that we picked up from the tourist offices and our  TomTom Start 25  satnav, which came into its own in cities.

Road Rules in Norway

We discovered a couple of road rules while in Norway. In cities when there is more than one lane, the ‘slow’ lane is often only for buses and taxis – we did wonder why everyone was queuing in one lane in Trondheim until we spotted a sign! Traffic joining from the right has priority on junctions which had no ‘give way’ signs or painted lines across the junction, and cars wouldn’t hesitate to drive out onto the main road, so it’s well worth being aware of this one.

Toll Roads in Norway

When satnav chirped up our route would take us on a toll road we would ask it to recalculate to avoid it, this proved to be pointless as the alternative non-toll route would be a further couple of hours of driving and maybe include a ferry! Since April 2016 motorhomes are no longer charged the higher ‘over 3.5 tonnes’ rate, instead all tolls for motorhomes are the same as for cars. Across the whole country we clocked up around £56 worth of tolls. You have a warning sign that you are approaching a toll a couple of kilometres before it, then just before the cameras there is a sign telling you how much it will be, I wrote down each one as we passed it so we can check it off on our bills.

We initially registered with Norway’s  Autopass  scheme, which takes £30 from your bank when you pass the first toll then uses that money to pay for subsequent tolls, however the visitor’s payment scheme only lasts for two months. Once this ran out we registered with  EPC  who will invoice us for tolls after we return home. We initially used Autopass as we would not be at home to receive the invoices from EPC and pay them, however on registering with EPC we found they will send the invoices by email – if visiting Norway again we will just register with EPC and not bother with the Autopass scheme. When you see all the road and tunnel building going on, and think of the cost to maintain some of the mind-boggling stretches of road, the tolls are a small price to pay.

Update June 2022: the Autopass system has now been expanded to cover ferry use. With a 50% discount it’s well worth registering for Autopass before leaving home and getting a tag sent out. Click here for more information on Norway’s Autopass scheme and ferry discounts .

Ferries in Norway

On the ferries you are charged by your length. Under 6m and you are classed as a car, over 6m and the price doubles, with more added on for each metre you are over that.  The vehicle costs advertised include the driver, then you have to pay for additional passengers. Shorter ferries (10 mins) were around 100 Nok (£10) for us – as a motorhome under 6m plus one passenger. In total we spent about £230 on 11 ferries. If you are over 6m it is worth checking out the prices and calculating if it would be cheaper to amend your route.

The ferries all took payment via credit card or cash. You join the lowest numbered lane to queue and ferry employees will either walk the queue and take payment, or let you board first, then walk around and take payment and finally, for longer trips they may let you board then find a ticket desk and pay there. Whoever’s taking payment just asks how long your vehicle is, and how many additional people you have. We were never measured, and we took our bike rack off to ensure we were only 6m. We only heard of one motorhome being measured with a tape; their van was closer to 7m but even after being measured they were charged the 6m price! As with much of Norwegian society, the system seems mainly based on trust.

Petrol, Diesel and LPG

Petrol and diesel prices change throughout the day and vary from day to day and place to place. The cheapest day we found to be a Sunday, but other than that we struggled to find any sort of logic behind when they changed. Both fuels get more expensive the further north you go, the cheapest we saw for diesel was 10.69 Nok (about £1 a litre), the most expensive around 15 Nok (£1.50). Keep your eyes on the prices and fill up when you see it cheap.

LPG is no long as widely available as it was a couple of years ago (if our LPG Points of Interest on our satnav is anything to go by). It looks like they are favouring electric car charge points instead. LPG can still be found in most cities, sometimes tucked away on an industrial estate. We used the  LPG Norge website  to find places to fill up, but there are other companies supplying it, so will be more places than shown on here. If using the  MyLPG.eu  website, check when the stations were last confirmed as being open as many of them are no longer there. Note – if using Finland to get to/from Norway there is no LPG in Finland, so stock up before you cross the border.

We couldn’t see much standardisation between the LPG refill stations: some were manned, others you filled yourself. Some closed at night or on Sunday, some stayed open 24 hours. Some were fully automated. Some used the UK bayonet connector, others the French dish-style connector. Prices were typically around 70p to 80p a litre.

Motorhome Service Points in Norway

The campsites we used all had service points for motorhomes. Outside of official campsites there are plenty of options for discarding waste and taking on fresh water:

• Tømme stations – service points for motorhomes which were typically free, located in towns, at picnic spots and in petrol stations.  bobilportal.no (Norwegian) has a  list of them . Note that there’s little standardisation in the design of service points, unlike the commercial ones you find in France for example. In some places black waste (the loo contents) goes into the same drain as grey water, and in rare cases you may need to obtain a ‘key’ to lift the centre of a manhole cover.
• Lots of petrol stations provide free water, typically from a hose in a heated cabinet where you also get compressed air. They don’t charge for it, and we found no expectation that you buy fuel before taking water.
• The picnic/rest area network often has free toilets available which, unless signed otherwise, we’d occasionally use for black waste disposal. We  have a SOG unit fitted , so didn’t need to worry about damaging septic tanks with chemicals. We would say that while a SOG unit is useful to have, it’s by no means essential for Norway.
• We didn’t see any service points which provided electricity for battery charging, as you might see in France or Germany.

Using Norwegian Currency

Norway uses the Norwegian Krone (NOK, nok or kr). When we visited in the summer of 2016 the rate was around 10 nok = £0.95, so we simply divided prices by 10 to get a rough pound price. They no longer use øre which was their version of pence (100 øre = 1 Krone). Krone coins are 1, 5, 10 and 20 while notes are 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000.

Most transactions in Norway are done with a card instead of cash – the receptionist at the campsite in Oslo mentioned how surprised she was that we were paying in cash. We loaded £500 onto our Caxton FX card and used this for cash withdrawals while, everything else went on our Halifax Clarity Credit Card. We got so used to paying for everything on the card that we had to make an effort to spend the cash, and still left with some currency.

Buying Food and Drink in Norway

While in Norway we heard the phrase ‘Norway is for the eyes, not the stomach’, which certainly proved to be true. As it ranks among the most expensive countries in the world to live, this is reflected in the price of food, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks both in supermarkets and restaurants.

Supermarkets in Norway

Expect to be paying double the amount you would do at home for everything from basics like bread and milk to chocolate, biscuits and alcohol and you won’t be far off for budgeting. But look closely and you’ll see that there are some things that are reasonably priced. Buy the store’s own brand of goods, or from the ‘First Price’ range.

By having a good look we found custard cremes labelled as ‘Vanilla Biscuits’ at just over 16.60 Nok for half a kilo (some of the cheapest biccies in the shop), ready salted crisps were cheaper than flavoured ones (around 26 Nok for a big bag), so we added our own flavours (black pepper, fajita seasoning), own brand cornflakes were less than £1 for a huge box and you could get massive 5kg bags of rice for around a fiver. When buying bread look at the prices, there is usually one called Loft that is a fraction of the price of the others (6.80 Nok compared to 30 – 40 Nok). One of the best buys we found were from the ‘Extra’ chain of supermarkets, where you could get a cooked chicken for about 57 Nok. Finally, as always, keep your eyes open for the discount section, we picked up a huge piece of salmon for half price, cut it into sections and froze it for later.

The cheapest supermarkets were Rema 1000 and Bunnpris, but they did lack a bit in range. For a better range we used Kiwi, Co-op and Extra. We also found the Europris stores to be very good for snacks and treats as well as fishing gear (they are a bit like a Wilkos).

All drinks cans and plastic bottles have a ‘pant’ (deposit) on them, this is often in addition to the price on the label – usually 1 Nok for a can and 2.5 Nok for a bottle. Inside each supermarket you’ll find a machine you can put your old cans (un-crushed) and bottles into; it will then offer you the option of having a voucher to the value of the deposits or giving the money to charity. If you opt for the voucher you have to use it in that shop at that time, you can’t take it with you and use it elsewhere, so keep it handy for when you get to the till.

When buying alcohol, the supermarkets will only sell stuff up to 4.75%, so you’ll find beers, ciders and some weak wines in there. The prices on the shelf are usually per can (26 – 35 Nok for beer), and opening a six pack to buy just one can is quite normal. Check the percentage before you buy, as they have a lot of alcohol-free beers! You can’t buy alcohol from supermarkets after 8pm on a weekday, 6pm on a Saturday or any time on a Sunday, the shelves will be covered in a curtain to stop you from being tempted.

For anything stronger than 4.75% you’ll need to go to one of the state-owned ‘vinmonopolet’ stores which also sell spirits and wine, these tend to be in bigger towns. The prices in these stores are, as you might guess, exorbitant.

Typical Grocery Prices in Norway

These are all in Nok, divide by 10 for a rough UK comparison:

• 0.75l Milk – 23.90 (about £2.40)
• Tin of tomatoes – 4.10 (about 40p)
• Bottle of Bulmers – 51.40 (about £5)
• 500ml can of local beer – 30.40 (about £3)
• Loose potatoes (per kg) – 22.90 (about £2)
• Loose mushrooms (per kg) – 42.50 (about £4)
• Iceberg lettuce – 20.90 (about £2)
• 12 large eggs – 39.90 (about £4)

How to Avoid the High Supermarket Costs

How did we get around the high cost of food and drink? We stocked up massively before we arrived in Norway,  taking Europe by Camper’s advice  to ‘pack as though you’re going to the Moon’. Even the Norwegians are known to frequently nip over the border to Sweden for their shopping.

We had one under bench storage area which was full of tins. We bought a huge chunk of parma ham which lasted a couple of months in the fridge and was used as ham and bacon at times. We froze as much stuff as we could and stockpiled as much wine as we dare. Norway is not in the EU, so it has  import quotas on alcohol and tobacco  (remember the good old days when you could only bring home so much from abroad, well that’s how it is going to Norway). We were slightly (ahem) over the limits when we arrived in the country and fortunately for us there were no signs of customs officials when we crossed the border from Finland legally, we  should have paid duty on the excess wine  we had with us. If we’d have been caught, we risked a fine, and if you bring a lot in,  you may well be sent to court . We did see a transit van being flagged in for checking at customs when we left the country to go into Sweden, so it is up to you how much risk you feel you want to take.

Jay took up sea fishing ( no license needed for sea angling in Norway ), which helped to supplement our food stores and gave him a chance to sit in the sun and admire the scenery. Jay hasn’t fished since a child, and only picked up a cheap telescopic rod in Finland for about £40 ( one like this ) and used basic metal lures, about 14g in weight, and a spinner. He didn’t use any other bait, and didn’t use a boat to save on cost. Where we saw people using boats they pulled in lots of big fish, but we got our fair share just fishing in deep water on the edge of fjords. The Saltstraumen area was by  far the craziest fishing place  we’ve ever seen.

The fish were typically pollock and mackerel. From YouTube Jay learned the quickest method for killing them, and how to fillet them, so we could fit more in the freezer. The pollock isn’t particularly tasty so we cooked it in sauces, the mackerel was much tastier, quickly fried on both sides, just enough to cook it and keep it succulent.

Eating Out in Norway

I’ll confess now, we only ate out three times in Norway (two of those were take-aways) as the high prices took away any hope of enjoying a meal. Even a McDonalds Big Mac Meal was around 100 Nok (£10).

Drooling over restaurant menus, the cost of a burger and chips was around 210 Nok (£21), then you would need drinks on top of that. In some places a half litre of beer was 140 Nok (£14), enough to make you want to weep into it so it lasts longer.

Restaurant and take away prices did appear to get cheaper as you went further south in the country, but not by much. Our  double skillet  got plenty of use in Norway, as did our  outdoor camping gas stove , especially for cooking all the fish Jay caught.

Using the Internet, Phone and Post in Norway

During our stay, we used  Three Feel at Home pay as you go SIM cards  to stay connected to the Internet everywhere. This cost us £15 for 3GB of data, which lasted us about a month (we’re reasonably careful with how much we use). We checked the cost for buying a Norwegian PAYG SIM card instead of using the Three SIMs, but they were more expensive. Officially, each Three SIM can only be used for 2 months abroad, so we have multiple cards which we can rotate, and we use them in a MiFi-type device which shares the signal around inside our motorhome ( more details on our Internet system here ).

We also have a WiFi booster aerial, an early version of the  motorhomewifi.com iBoost , which was very useful for reaching distant WiFi access points while we were on campsites.

We used Three ‘Feel at Home’ SIMs in our phones, but these have a limit on the number of months they can be used abroad before they’re cut off. As we’d been travelling for some months our SIM was affected, which meant we lost our phone number too. For this reason we now use SIMs from 1p Mobile ( www.1pmobile.com ) in our mobile phones, which we know can be used abroad for four months before surcharges are applied to calls.

We sent a few postcards and birthday cards home. Ju picked up stamps from small post offices found in some of the supermarkets, and they reached home in 3 or 4 days.

Doing Laundry in Norway

We do a small amount of hand washing here in Zagan, but as a rule we like to use washing machines to clean our clothes, bedding and towels. While in Norway we mainly used campsites for laundry, but found a couple of washing machines and dryers at marinas which could be used by anyone for around £3 to £6. We didn’t spot any launderettes, but we didn’t search for them either.

Travelling Norway with a Pet Dog

Charlie, our Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, accompanies us on our travels, and came to Norway with us. To bring a pet into the country (and get back out again into the EU), they have to meet the EU Pet Passport rules, and also have to be treated for tapeworm before entering the country. We came in via Finland, which (as far as we can work out) meant we had to get him wormed by a vet in Estonia, which we did, but we didn’t need to get him treated again before entering Norway. We weren’t stopped at customs when we entered Norway from Finland, nor when we left Norway into Sweden, so neither our paperwork nor Charlie’s chip were checked.

We read somewhere that dog food isn’t allowed into Norway, but when we later checked the official customs web pages could find no mention of this, so we brought his dog food in with us. Again, since we weren’t stopped at customs, we’re not sure if this is legal or not.

Finally, we give Charlie the Seraquin joint supplement for his arthritis. We accidentally ran low on this in Norway, and found we couldn’t buy it in the country. Ju tried to order it online and get it delivered to a campsite in Norway, but it seemed import restrictions wouldn’t let us choose Norway as a delivery address. In the end we rationed his Seraquin dose, and picked it up from a pharmacy as soon as we entered Sweden.

Note that in the summer months you legally have to keep your dog on a lead when out walking them, between 1 April and 20 August to help protect wildlife. Apart from that, we didn’t see any restrictions on dogs going onto the beaches in Norway.

Wildlife in Norway

In the north of the country – particularly inside the Arctic Circle, you’ll probably come across reindeer beside and on the road. These semi-domesticated herds are owned by the Sami, natives of the north ( whom we learned about in Finland ), who manage the herds but in general they roam free.

Reindeer have zero road sense, and don’t much care about your vehicle when you’re sat behind them. Hitting one at speed wouldn’t be a good idea. Keep and eye out for them as you go, and slow to a crawl if they’re near or on the road. Look out for cars seemingly stopped for no reason in the road, they’re probably sat behind a reindeer or two. Shouting at them out the window seems to work to get them moving!

We saw lots of birdlife too, even becoming the victim of a territorial Arctic Turn at one point, which drew blood dive-bombing Jay on a beach in, erm, the Arctic. Moose are a bit harder to spot though and we only got a brief look at the one of them before it lumbered off into the forest.

Are You New to Motorhome Touring?

If you’re new to motorhome touring, then we wrote The Motorhome Touring Handbook just for you. It’s got all the info you need to quickly get up to speed choosing a motorhome and using it to take the biggest adventures of your life!

The Motorhome Touring Handbook is available as a paperback or Kindle eBook. You can read more about the book and buy it from Amazon.co.uk .

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Thanks for reading our guide to Norway! If you’ve found it useful, please consider sharing it using the buttons below? This really helps build the blog’s audience, which in turn helps motivate us to keep it alive and kicking. Cheers, Ju and Jay

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Please Comment to Share Suggestions or Feedback for this Guide

Great advice, thanks and thoroughly enjoyed following your travels.

Hi both, Thanks for sharing this its just what we need to help plan our trip to the top, hopefully more of the same for Sweden and Denmark and my planning sessions will made so much easier. Stay safe x

Fantastic, thanks for this.

Hi both, been following your tours but first time of posting, I really enjoy following you on your travels and thank you so much for the time and effort you put into your blogs.. Norway looks fab and the scenery is giving us itchy feet. Did you experience any problems with midges or mosquitoes? We are thinking that with the landscape looking so much like Scotland and all that water, that the little biters might be an issue?

Happy wanderings. Linda

Great to hear from you, thanks for taking the time to comment!

Nope, we didn’t have any problems at all. Finland was another story, mozzies everywhere by the dozen, (swines, swines!) but once in Norway we didn’t see any at all in 11 weeks. We mainly stayed on the coast, which might have helped, and we met one couple who’d had a few bites, so there must be some biters knocking about over there somewhere.

Cheers, Jay

Hi all, i was sent over here from a facebook friendly link. I am aabout to do a drive in norway next summer, a lot shorter than yours and i have loads of questions, if i offer a small donation to the diesel fund would you consider answering them

Hi Peter Feel free to ask away and we’ll answer as best we can. If you ask on this comment thread then others will get to see the answers too and hopefully also benefit. No need to donate to the diesel fund, we love helping folks who enjoy seeing the world. If you are planning on buying anything from Amazon in the near future, please feel free to use the link in the side bar, you still pay the same but the kind Amazon folks give us a few pence for sending you their way! Ju x

ok, here goes, i have combined all of next years holiday entittlement to one lump so we can try to do Nordkapp in our camper van, thats 28 days, allowing three days either side to get to and from Denmark that allows us 22 days in scandiavia , the general plan was a slow drive up the west cost of norway to Nordkapp and a faster drive down from Sweeden back to denmak. What i am looking for is time lines so we can better make use of the driving time. you said in this write up that driving is slower how much slower are your average mph around 50 which is main road uk average or slower 40 or less, i need to know so we can work out how much time we need to allow for the drive up. next up is how to get from denmark to norway, what do you suggest? 1, starting at Denmark. which is the better route to consider? we are aiming at Telemark as first planned point of aim, so from Denmark do we bridge drive to Malmo, or ferry from Frederikshavn to Goteborg, other suggestions could be Hirtshals to Larvik or Hirtshals to Kristansand. is there much difference from costs to time traveled to make any odds as we are time restricted we have a slightly larger allowences for the ferries just in case.thats for norway as well as traveling around from denmark.

the next ask is working up the west coast 2,Telemark to Trondheim, any suggested routes other than the E6??

3, Trondheim to Mo I Rana. the last time i was over here we were told about the Fv710 and Fv715 from Trondheim to Namsos, google maps is telling me is 250km and 5 hours, but how much does the ferry cost and in time how long does the ferry take, we were looking at spending a couple of days driving it, is it worth it or is the higher up route 4 better value for time and effort??

4, Namsos to Sandnessjoen, on the Fv17,, this is again on google at 6 hours long and 300km, so for a starter to get going is it as good as they say? also to make life more interesting, i see a much much smaller road and long path to travel via the Fv769 and Fv770 ( Ramsuika-Salsnes-Hofles-Kolvereid-Foldereid) out on the far coast line, maybe this is worth the ride out and we spend a few days extra out there

5, Sandnessjoen to Bodo, again the Fv17 springs to mind rather than the E6, but any help for ideas please.

6, heres a question from Bodo do i bolt strraight up the E6 to Narvik or do i ferry out to Reine at Lofoten and come back in on the E10 to Narvik??

I’ll do my best to answer as truthfully as I can – but I can’t answer all of the questions as I simply don’t know the answer. Here goes:

A. Driving speed – we had plenty of time so didn’t track hos long it took to get places. Most roads have a max 80 kph limit, but that wasn’t achievable on the majority of the roads we took due to narrowness, single width, hairpins, hills, oncoming traffic, roadworks, dark tunnels, animals on the road, the view distracting me all the time, waiting for ferries and sitting on ferries. My guess is we averaged between 30 and 35 mph in Norway. 1. Sorry, I don’t know as we’ve only been once. We took the bridge, but bear in mind costs for this bridge (there are actually two toll bridges – one to cross Denmark then another to get from Denmark to Sweden), and all of the ferries in Norway double if you’re over 6m long, then significantly increase with each extra metre. The ferry to Gothenburg seems the best option at a guess. 2. Again, we didn’t go across this part of the country so I don’t know. The E6 looks the fastest route on the map. The other alternative could be to avoid the south of Norway entirely and reverse your route – so you use Sweden to get to Norkapp quickly, then come down the north of Norway, crossing back into Sweden to get home quickly. This way you can maximise your time in the Norwegian Arctic, as you’ll have a good idea how fast the Swedish route is? 3. Sorry, we didn’t use the coastal route for this section. 4. Again, sorry, we didn’t use that route. 5. Yep, we used the coastal route here and very much enjoyed it. If you have a look at our map you can see where we stayed along the route, including a great free camping spot alongside a dam, and another on the main road with a great glacier view. 6. The Lofotens are a highlight of Norway, it would be a real shame not to see them. Senja island is very nice too. I’d maximise my time in this area if you can. The ferry from Bodo probably makes the most sense both time and cost-wise, but again it could prove expensive if you have a long rig.

time line and distence wise doing nordkapp to denmark via sweeden is around 30 hrs driving and 2300 kms, which is about 6-8 days if we over send time on the way up, this will give us 14-12 days to drive up the west coast. we decided to set a couple of fixed way points for the drive, one is a coastal drive, the Fv 17 has been suggested or the Fv110/115, we want to hit 68degrees so we can say were inside the artic circle and we are really more interested in north than south, i want to do south the year after but in the winter time rather than the summer time

7, Narvik to Alta we were loking to follow the E6 as a slow simple drive off

8, Alta to Nordkapp, E6 and E69

9, Nordkapp to Kirkenes, ( just to say i have looked at Russia again)

10, Kirkenes to Inari to Rovaniemi to Tornio to Lulea, or we miss Kirkenes to save time and drive south from nordkapp and do russia another year

11, Lulea to Lycksele to Ostersund Fv45 ( we like the idea of running down the Fv 45 from Lulea to Mora and down to Karlstad)

11 Ostersund to Karlstad

12, Karlstad to Goteborg and ferry back to Denmark to Malmo and drive back over the Bridges

As we have only travelled part of your planned route it may be worth asking some locals their views. We joined Bobilgruppa on Facebook where we got help and advice from fellow motorhomers in the country. Enjoy your adventures.

We’re setting off for a 5 month trip to Scandinavia in May this year with our cat and found the information in your blog a huge help. Thank you so much for taking the time and effort to help everyone. Kind regards John and Mary

Thanks for the comment John and Mary, means a lot to us. Have a great time on your tour. Cheers, Jay

Hi Js! I love your country guides, and have been reading the blog from the beginning over the last few months. Your writing is beautiful, and I feel like I’m reading a wonderfully descriptive travel book. I haven’t actually read a proper book since I started reading your travel diaries!

Just one wee point I noticed above, and I hope you don’t mind me pointing it out but it threw me for a minute while i worked out what was wrong, but in your section about parking resources, I think you are missing a zero off of each of your NOK prices, both in the table and the following , paragraph, first couple of lines.

Keep up the great work. I know you’re slowing down a bit and spending more time in places, and I’m looking forward to catching up with you in Morocco (on here).

Hi Jason, Thank you for your great blog. It might be a bit cheeky but would you mind answering a few questions please? Hubby and i are thinking about spending 2 weeks in a rented campervan in Norway, in mid-june. Our issue is that we won’t be able to do the south west (Geiranger ext..) and the north (lofoten/ senja)..So we need to choose..which is SO hard!

We JUST want to see awesome nature, wild camp away from crowds and do a fair bit of mountain hiking.

In your opinion, is the north better than the south for that kind of break? Have you got any Hidden gems to share regarding places to stop over night? Thanks,

For the wild camping, head north guys. The south is quiet but definitely busier with tourists as it’s easier to get to. Both areas have incredible landscapes and you’ll find beauty everywhere. Haukland Beach on the Lofotens springs to mind, but there really are so many lovely places. Have a look at the route map on here and you can quickly click on each place for a look at the parking areas. Cheers, have fun, Jay

Thanks so much for this. Just starting to think about Scandinavia as taking off with my 2 dogs and think mainland Europe will be too hot for them. This was so informative. Where are you going this year??

You’re welcome Ellie. Ah, this year, dunno. Tour de France is drawing us into southern France in the summer but apart from that, we’re not sure. Cheers, Jay

Can I just say thank you to the both of you – what a fabulous resource your website is. We are planning 6 weeks away in our motorhome Dolly this summer, with Norway being the main event – but we’ll also spend a week getting there and a week back. As I need to check my emails daily, could you please advise how much of the time your three SIMs managed to get a data signal. Did they work even in remote beauty spots?

Hi guys. The Three SIM worked pretty much everywhere. We uploaded blog posts from across Norway from each location we stayed in using the Three SIM, so you can get an idea how remote the locations can be. This applies to almost everywhere in Europe and North Africa now – unless you’re off in the desert or trekking in the mountains, you’ll get a data signal. It’s not always 3G, but it almost always works, amazingly. Cheers, Jay

Thanks for your info, very useful. Do you remember where you had your dog wormed, before crossing info Finland? Also did you drive through Russia?

Hi Sheena. Charlie visited a vet in Parnu in Estonia, full details can be found here https://ourtour.co.uk/home/vets-for-charlie-haapsalu-estonia/ We opted not to drive through Kaliningrad as we know people who have been before and weren’t very inspired. If I remember correctly, you had to buy a visa (and insurance as ours would not have covered it), so it would have cost quite a bit too. As for actual Russia, we wouldn’t have been able to visit as we hadn’t arranged visas before we set off.

Hello, I’ve enjoyed very much Reading your history of your journey throughout Norway. We found a lot of great tips and others so thank you for that. We are still enjoying our last week ( home at 26 june ) but wanted to let you know your blog was very helpfull. Thank you again, Inge and Patrick, Geel, Belgium

Thanks guys, much appreciated, happy travels, Jay

Just visited Norway on a 2 week cruise. Want to return independently in my motorhome. Can you give us some advice on ferries from the U.K to Norway or the route that we need to take. Really enjoyed reading your blog and watching your videos. They have inspired me and have allowed me to share with my husband the experience I had at NorthKnapp. Thank you

Hi Coral, sounds like you had a great time! As far as we know, there is no direct ferry from the UK to Norway. We drove across the Netherlands, Germany and Denmark’s toll bridges to get to Sweden, then crossed by land to get to Norway (actually in reverse but the route is the same). There may be ferry routes to Denmark or North Germany, we never looked as we wanted a shorter sea crossing for our pooch. Good luck, happy travels, Jay

I am planning a 2 week campervan trip in north Norway, so your blog tips are extremely helpful. Thank you for all the useful information and tips.

Thanks Nimish, have a cracking time!

Hello guys. We leave Cornwall on Tuesday for a 6 week tour of Norway and I’d just like to thank you for your amazing blog. Most of our questions have been answered reading through your posts and your passion for this country has got us very excit ed. Did you ever struggle to find places to camp?

Go go go! We had park4night and the camperstop book and GPS from ourbumble.com and had no trouble finding places. Cheers, Jay

£200 stowed food plus all your normal stuff. How far over the 3.5 tonne limit wher you? What food would you recommend stowing?

Hi Ian. My guess is we were over, but by how much I don’t know as we didn’t weigh the food. My fear with weight is steep descents, and we had no problems coming off some pretty steep hills, but it is a good safety point that you make. I’d pack anything which will last, dried food, frozen meat, pasta sauces, tins of vegetables, soup etc. You can find food which isn’t crazily expensive, but you will probably be wincing at most of the prices. Sea fishing gear is useful too. Cheers, Jay

There is also a ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand.

Hi, great blog very informative. If you hadn’t had your dog with you would you have made much use of a motorbike or bicycles? I am trying to decide if they worth the space/weight. Fraser

Hi Fraser – yes, we would have. Having a moped/motorbike would have been especially helpful for visiting cities and we may well get one in future, although we’d need to up-rate our van to allow it. Cheers, Jay

Well what an informative and fantastic blog, I have learnt so much, so thank you so much for taking the time out to write it. Just starting down the MH route after years of caravanning / camping etc, so it has been very useful indeed. I fell in love with Norway many years ago but have only had the odd trip there for photography, walking and a bit of climbing mostly in the winter. Your trip is stuff of dreams for me, so I’m planning to turn it into reality when I retire early the end of next year. I have a lot of problems convincing the wife however, as I have limited driving experience abroad, but of course I plan to give the van (when I get it) a good shakedown in the UK first. I would love to travel up in Northern Norway in the winter however common sense tells me this is probably not a particularly good idea, so a Summer to late Autumn trip will be the aim. Anyhow enough waffle from me. A big thanks from a newbie to motor homing, I have learnt so much here and I really appreciate you taking time out to publish it. All the best and Safe Travels Steve.

Thanks for getting in touch Steve and your kind words. Driving abroad becomes second nature very quickly and the roads are much quieter than the UK. I started driving our van in Finland and then into Norway as the roads were so quiet! Enjoy your next few months of planning and the adventures that will follow. Ju x

Wow…. just WOW !!!

Thank you for providing this depth of information and continued advice, what a wonderful resource.

All I need now is digest the information herein, pay off the mortgage and GO……

Great info! Love your blog style – very modern and useful. Ages ours a bit lol – and shows we’ve not updated it in decades! Off for 6 weeks in Scandanavia this year, so looking for tips – so thanks for sharing!

Hi guys, hey, thanks for Do Your Dream! Massively motivated us in our preparation. Have fun in Scandinavia, fantastic part of the world. Cheers, Jay

Hi can you list the most favourite free places to stay around bergen, we have just 2 days in a hire car :-)

Sorry Adrian, we were only there a couple of nights ourselves. Jay

This information is amazing, thank you so much, I will keep coming back to it.We are planning a trip this year with our 2 Spaniels on board our motor-home. I will be using all your advice. We will pack for the moon….

Thanks Wendy, you’re welcome! Jay

Hello! Thank you for all the information. My husband and I are keen to do Norway and are debating renting a motorhhome or doing some transit/organized tours. Our thing is we will be bringing our son who will be 16 months. Does anything stand out as something you suggest for our first trip with the little man? I like the idea of bringing tons of food and staying at the picnic sites to feel safer. thank you!

Hi Sinead. I’d imagine Norway to be the perfect country to travel with your son. Beautiful landscapes, very safe feeling, friendly people, very relaxing. I can’t think of any issues, but would arrive well stocked with food and anything else your son needs, as it might not be available in the North, or may be very expensive. Cheers, Jay

Hi guys. Great blog – thanks. As newbies we are worried about getting gas for cooking and heating as we travel. We are planning a three month tour of Norway and Sweden this summer and have stocked up with 2 x 6kg propane cylinders. We have no idea how long these will last us. Is it possible to get them re-filled or will we need to buy a Norwegian cylinder and regulator?

Hi Mike. 12Kg of gas for three months will be a push unless you plan to use mains hook ups a fair bit. You can’t usually get UK cylinders topped up outside the UK. We have a GasIT self refillable LPG system, but these aren’t cheap to fit (have a look at Safefill cylinders, they could be an option as they don’t need ‘fitting’). The best option is probably the one you suggest: get a local cylinder and pigtail, but this isn’t something we’ve needed to do so can’t tell you for sure. Cheers, Jay

Hi Julie and Jason,

Wow…..Thank you so much for sharing this very thorough and helpful tips. We are going to Scandinavia – mainly Sweden, Finland, Denmark and Norway with our friends end of May until mid-July, so there’ll be 2 motorhome.

This blog has so much details that we will definitely use for our trip.

I just have some few questions and clarifications if you don’t mind. I will break it down to 2-3 topics so it’s not to much for you to read and answer.

1. Currency – you mentioned here that you have to make an effort to spend to get rid of your cash. Do you think to change 100euro is enough? Just so at least we have some cash? Another thing, how about for laundry, did you not have to use coins?

2. Driving in Norway a. Roads – you’ve mentioned that you’ve traveled 4849 kms, is this just in Norway? Or is it the total kms you guys done for the 11 weeks trip? b. Ferries – you’ve mentioned under 6m – am I correct to say that up to 6m motorhome should be and to be charge as car with the driver? Then pay extra for the passenger? c. Tolls – you’ve mentioned that with EPC the invoice is being sent in your email. So how do you pay for the charges whilst you were still on road? Via internet in their website or do you have to go to their office to pay? Also, what’s the difference between Autopass and EPC? and which one you would recommend that is more useful and easy to use? d. LPG – we will be carrying 2 x 11kgs, this should be enough for 7 weeks trip right?

I think that’s it for now.

Thank you very much in advance.

Cheers, Mina

Hi Mina I will try to answer as best I can, but it’s a couple of years since we were in Scandinavia (and have been to a lot of places since) and things may have changed. 1. We found it was much easier to pay by card than cash, but we could spend cash it’s just not as common as other countries. I can’t really say how much will be enough for you as it will depend on where you are going and what you are doing, but I find it always makes sense to have some local currency in your purse – even if its just as an excuse to spend it before you cross the border into the next country! 2. a. The article is only about our time in Norway, so that will be the amount for there only – it’s a long country. b. Yes 6m or under on the ferry and you pay the car price (which includes the driver), passengers are extra. c. Autopass you pay upfront – put an amount of money into your account and it takes it from that, EPC will invoice you a couple of months after you leave the country. Both are paid online. d. Again I can’t really comment on how much LPG you will use as it depends what you use it for, where you are staying (campsites mean less gas use as you can use electricity instead for cooking and heating) and what the weather is like as that will determine how much you use for heating. I hope that helps clarify things a bit. Cheers Julie

Fantastic write up. Can’t wait to delve into the individual blog enteries

Thanks Gareth – Norway’s a fantastic country to travel by motorhome – hope you find the info useful and get a chance to travel there. Cheers, Jay

Very interesting and so informative. We are planning to go there ourselves after purchsing a motorhome this year. Your information and experiences, although 2 years ago, is still, I believe, very relevant.

Superb read – we will definitely be looking at this in the near future. Thank you for taking the time to enlighten us newbies. Your information will be invaluable. I do have one more question regarding motor home……….not taking into account financials, would you say a 32 ft (10m) rv will have any significant dramas ? Thank you in advance. Andrew

Hi Andrew and thanks! I can’t really answer your question, as our motorhome have all been much smaller than that. From what we’ve seen, 10m vans are of course feasible (lorries and coaches manage to get around!) but perhaps need more planning to avoid smaller roads and find suitable parking places. You’ll certainly be an object of fascination among your fellow motorhomers! Cheers, Jay

Hi. How strict are they on the ferries with the length? Ours is 6.39m. Great blog, thanks. Looks a fantastic place to travel. I might just have to get a Christmas job to pay for the extra expense of Norway!

Varies between ferries Kevin but not that strict. You’d get away with 6m for all but the real sticklers I reckon. Few had any kind of measuring system, but we have heard of the tape coming out on the one occasion! It is an incredible country to motorhome around. Cheers, Jay

Fantastic, thank you. Looking at Rv’s next June, just trying to decide on routes etc, this is very helpful.

Hello! Love your guys blog! Just wanted to ask exactly how you got from Denmark to Norway, we have a mercedes various so over the 3.5 tonnes too. Thank you!

Hi Hettie – we went the other way (Norway to Denmark), but in essence took the Øresund Bridge over to Sweden (has a toll), then drove to Stockholm, then across the land border into Norway near Oslo. You can take a ferry direct from Denmark to Norway, but we wanted to see Sweden. Cheers, have fun! Jay

Brilliant! thank you for your help Jay!

Superb site, very useful thanks. This is going to be our first time at turning left at Calais and the Norway blog is very helpful. Do you have the Ferries text squirrelled away in the site anywhere? You appear to have a duplication above.

Hi I really enjoy reading your blog/website. We would like to visit Norway this August and have 16 days to get there and back from the UK and travel around as much as we can… Would you say that is feasible and that 3 days/nights would be sufficient to make it up through Germany and Denmark and hit Norwegian soil on day 4? Given the time constraints we are thinking of concentrating on the South West and only as far north as Trondheim if we can make it but perhaps even only to Alesund or Molde if that is more realistic…(then back down to Oslo via Lillehammer?) I am just trying to get a feel for whether we are being too ambitious? Thanks again! Mark

Hi Mark. I think I’d consider hiring a van in Norway and flying out. If that’s cost prohibited, there are good free motorway networks in the transit countries, so 3 days seems feasible to me. Once you’re in Norway speeds drop significantly, and routes are more torturous, so your remaining 10 days might not get you that far (at least with knackering yourselves driving and rendering the trip awful as a result). I’d plan the trip day by day on Google Maps to see what is feasible. Cheers, good luck mate, Jay

Hi Jason, What an incredible life you are both living. Thank you for providing so much useful information. We are going to Norway for the first time in July and planning to spend 5 weeks there. Could you please help me with two questions. 1.We will be hiring a motorhome that is (L)6m x (W)2.1. We have driven a similar motorhome in Australia, but on long, straight roads. I am slightly nervous about driving along the west coast, given you refer to some of the roads being narrow and twisting. I notice your motorhome is largish, but how did you manage the hair pin corners and passing oncoming traffic on the narrow roads, and I imagine they have some of the best scenery? 2.How long would you suggest spending on the Lofoten Islands?

Much appreciated, Peter

Hi Peter. First off: thanks for the kind words, much appreciated. The motorhome you’re hiring is about the same size as ours and we didn’t have any issues on the hairpins. They’re often made for coaches to pass, so are easy in a 6m van. The narrow roads are harder to deal with but part and parcel of visiting the country. I made sure I knew how far to the right I could get, and tried not to get pushed down the road by following traffic. We had plenty of time so pulling to let traffic past wasn’t a big issue. The Lofotens are wonderful, as are the islands to the north. They’re a long way north though, and it’s hard to do more than 40mph across much of the country, so it depends I think on where you’ll drop your van off (you could drive through the Lofotens in 2 or 3 days, but it wouldn’t be relaxing). The fjords to the south are spectacular too. 5 weeks sounds like a long time but it’s a long country and there’s a lot to gawp at! Cheers, have a fantastic tour, Jay

Thank you for sharing.

Thanks alot for the advices that you offered to us , now just waiting to experience Norway by th end of july 2020 and for 3 weeks by using own camper

You’re welcome Haki, have a great trip! Cheers, Jay

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Guide to Camping in Norway + 10 Best Norway Campsites

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Posted May 03, 2023 in Travel Ideas

Posted May 03, 2023

Planning a camping trip in Norway? You’ll be pleased to know you’ve picked one of the best places in the world for wild camping! If you’re ready to experience waking up with a breathtaking view of the fjords, keep reading to discover all you need to know about camping in Norway .

We’ll guide you through important Norway camping rules and our list of the best campsites in Norway. Plus, top tips on when the best time to camp in Norway is and whether a campervan or RV will suit you best. Let’s go!

Norway Camping Rules: Can You Camp Anywhere in Norway?

First things first, let’s clear up what the camping rules are in Norway. You’ll be happy to know that you can camp almost anywhere in Norway!

This is thanks to the Right to Roam principle, which says that you’re free to explore certain natural areas. Because Norwegians love to spend time exploring the outdoors, the right to access nature is actually written into the law.

You can camp on public land among the forests and mountains. As long as they're, at least, 150 meters away from any private property, occupied buildings or any private campsites . If you keep this distance away from any cultivated land (e.g. parks and gardens), you can enjoy a beautiful night sleeping under the stars.

Note that you can camp in a natural spot, following these rules, for one night . If you’d like to stay for two nights in the same place, you’ll need to ask the landowner’s permission. This applies unless you’re in a very remote area or in the mountains.

Also note that these principles apply for camping with a tent. Campervans and RVs need to be parked at a designated camp area to help preserve the natural environment.

Aside from this, the main rule to follow when camping in Norway is to be respectful and considerate of the natural landscape. Leave the place exactly as you found it. Make sure to pick up any rubbish and only empty toilets in the areas that are clearly signposted; doing so elsewhere is strictly prohibited.

Right of Public Access in Norway

A common query is whether foreign visitors can camp in Norway's wilderness due to the right of public access. The answer is affirmative. However, there are specific guidelines to adhere to. For detailed government regulations on this, refer to:

• No.16 Relating to Outdoor Recreation from 1957
• No.82 Relating to Motor Traffic on Uncultivated Land and in Watercourses from 1977
• Update of the Norwegian Ministry of the Environment to No.16 from 2007

Camping in Norway's Wilderness

This section provides a concise overview of camping-related information. The content is an interpretation by the author and may not be exhaustive or entirely accurate.

Distinguishing Land Types

The regulations differentiate between cultivated and uncultivated lands. Cultivated lands include:

• Farm compounds
• Surroundings of residences and lodges
• Ploughed fields
• Hayfields and enclosed spaces
• Managed grazing lands
• Young tree plantations

And other similar areas where public entry might obstruct the owner or harm their property. If a location isn't cultivated or tilled in any other manner, it's deemed uncultivated.

Rules for Wilderness Camping

Tent camping in the wild is generally allowed on uncultivated lands without the landowner's consent, but there are guidelines to note:

• Camping in the wild is at your discretion (e.g., potential damages from wildlife).
• Do not obstruct the landowner.
• Ensure your tent is at least 150 meters away from occupied buildings (except in designated camping areas).
• Limit your stay to two days at a single spot (exceptions apply in mountainous or isolated regions).
• Avoid harming young trees.
• Do not litter.
• Leave your camping spot as you found it.
• Be aware of potential camping bans during hunting seasons.
• Additional restrictions might apply in protected areas (usually indicated on information boards).

These guidelines also pertain to daytime activities like picnicking or sunbathing on uncultivated lands.

Camping Beside Your Vehicle

Driving on uncultivated lands is prohibited. On cultivated lands, it's permissible only with the landowner's consent. However, you can park alongside public roads without causing damage or obstructing traffic. If you set up your tent next to your parked vehicle following the aforementioned guidelines, it's acceptable.

Wild Camping in Norway

If you’re in the mood for some wild camping, Norway is an amazing place to do so! Simply find a spot among the idyllic landscape to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep in the fresh air. What could be better than being greeted by the feeling of sunlight warming your skin in the morning?

Just be aware that there are some restrictions on free camping in Norway, in particularly touristy spots. Restrictions usually happen during the summer months . This applies in some areas of Lofoten and Fjord Norway. In these spaces, you must pitch your tent in a designated campsite. You’ll be warned by the ‘no camping’ signs around the area.

Having a Campfire When Wild Camping in Norway

When wild camping in Norway, you can have a campfire from 15 September to 15 April . However, during the summer season, open campfires in nature are forbidden. The exception to this rule is if you’re in a place where the fire hazard is low, such as by the coast or at an approved campfire site.

You can check the  forest fire risk in Norway , specific to your location, before lighting a fire. If you do decide to make a campfire, it’s important to bring firewood from home or use twigs that are already on the ground. Bear in mind it’s not allowed to chop down any trees . Also, it’s your legal responsibility to make sure the fire is safe and doesn’t spread. You must also completely extinguish the fire before you leave.

Fishing When Wild Camping in Norway

Fancy trying some fishing when wild camping in Norway? You’re allowed to fish in saltwater , including the sea and some fjords, without a fishing license. However, fishing in freshwater, such as lakes, ponds, rivers and streams, requires a license .

These inland areas of freshwater can have different fishing rules depending on their location. It’s then best to check any specific local rules. Also note that any fish you catch must be for your own use, and you can only bring a certain number of fish across the border.

Top fishing tip: Make sure to disinfect your fishing equipment when changing the water you’re fishing in. This makes sure to stop the spread of fish diseases.

Foraging When Wild Camping in Norway

You can pick berries and mushrooms for personal use when wild camping in Norway, as long as they are not on private property. Make sure the berries are ripe before you pick them and that you’ve checked which are safe for consumption.

Can You Camp in the Fjords?

Yes, you can camp in the fjords of Norway! The awe-inspiring fjords are an amazing place for wild camping in Norway. It allows you to start your day with a quick dip in the water, before taking a breathtaking walk along these incredible natural wonders.

Fjord Norway , located in the western area of the country, is bursting with picturesque and dramatic landscapes for you to explore. You can enjoy a challenging hike or relaxing fjord boat tour to soak in the beauty of the fjords, before finding a space to set up camp for the night.

Is it Easy to Camp in Norway?

With over 1000 campsites in Norway set among the country’s beautiful natural scenery, you’ll be spoilt for choice for a place to rest your head . Whether you choose to camp with a tent, campervan or RV, there are so many outdoor spaces in Norway that you can stay for the night.

Outdoor exploring is a major part of national life in Norway. You’ll find natural spaces are well-signposted and each local area has its own rules to protect the environment. It’s easy to find out where you can and can’t camp, with a whole range of places being free and available for camping in Norway.

Campsites Versus Wild Camping

If you’re considering whether to try wild camping in Norway, or whether to stick to designated campsites, here are a few things to consider:

• Campsites have all the necessary facilities, such as showers, bathrooms and kitchens , so this can be a more comfortable camping experience. You can choose to break up your days, so one day you try wild camping, then the next stay at a campsite, which will allow you to shower and wash frequently.
• You might prefer to stick to a campsite for the safety element , as you’ll be around fellow campers in an area that is usually safer from natural risks.
• Wild camping allows you to experience the freedom and beauty of nature to the max . You can really get up close to Norway’s beautiful lakes, forests, mountains and fjords.
• You have more freedom to choose a specific location when wild camping , as you’ll have the whole of nature to explore!

Ultimately, whichever you choose, camping in Norway is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Camper, RV or Motorhome For Camping in Norway?

Choosing between a camper, motorhome and an RV for your Norway adventure? The choice of which vehicle to travel in comes down to your own needs as travelers. If you have a larger group and need more room, an RV or motorhome might be more comfortable for you.

When choosing a motorhome rental in Norway , you have several choices of different sizes, so you can find the perfect one for your group.

If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, a campervan should have enough room for you. Taking a campervan rental in Norway will allow you even more flexibility and freedom. Campervans are generally smaller than RVs, which can be handy for narrower roads and remote natural exploration.

Best Time to Go Camping in Norway

Late spring, summer and early autumn are the best times to go camping in Norway . As the weather is warmer and it’s much more pleasant to be outside in the summer temperatures. During the winter months, many campsites are closed and some natural areas are also inaccessible due to snow and ice.

The camping season in Norway runs from April to September, with July being the busiest month due to Norwegian holidays . It gets combined with many international visitors touring the country at the same time.

10 Best Campsites in Norway

Ramberg gjestegard.

Located in the stunning Lofoten Islands,  Ramberg Gjestegard campsite offers space for tents, campers and RVs. Here, you’ll find a small service building with all the facilities you need. Best of all, you’ll be right in front of the sea by a beautiful, white sand beach at the foot of some towering mountains!

Ver esta publicación en Instagram Una publicación compartida de Ramberg Gjestegård (@ramberg_gjestegard)

Moysand Family Camping

In Southern Norway, we recommend  Moysand Family Camping , which is Norway’s only 5-star campsite! With all the necessary facilities, including a washer and dryer, this campsite is a brilliant location for an overnight stay. You’ll be close to a beautiful coastal trail and the picturesque town of Grimstad.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Moysand Familiecamping (@moysand)

Trolltunga Camping

One of the best campsites in Norway, Trolltunga Camping is located between two of Norway’s most beautiful national parks. It is the perfect location for keen hikers.  Trolltunga Camping has space for 60 tents, motorhomes and campers and offers all the necessary facilities.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Trolltunga Camping (@trolltungacamping)

Geiranger Camping

Perhaps one of the most spectacular camping sites for getting up close to nature. Geiranger Camping is located by the UNESCO World Heritage Geirangerfjord, offering a once-in-a-lifetime chance to camp on the bay of a fjord surrounded by majestic mountains and lush greenery.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Geirangerfjorden Feriesenter (@geirangerfjorden_feriesenter)

Preikestolen Camping

Another one for keen hikers,  Preikestolen Camping is located in the Stavanger region of Fjord Norway. It is the ideal place to start from when hiking to the famous Preikestolen mountain plateau. You will find sanitary facilities and grill posts here, as well as a restaurant and souvenir shop!

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Preikestolen BaseCamp (@preikestolen_basecamp)

Ringoy Camping

Want something a little more remote? We recommend  Ringoy Camping , which offers room for tents and campers along the shores of Hardangerfjord. Spend a night among the spectacular landscape here, as you soak in the peace and tranquility of nature at this beautiful fjord.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Silje Lerøy Raunsgard (@ringoy_camping)

Skottevik Feriesenter

At  Skottevik Feriesenter in Kristiansand, you can enjoy some fun activities, including beach volleyball and canoeing, or dine at the onsite restaurant. This beautiful camping site in Norway’s southern region gives you easy access to the beach and surrounding forests.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Skottevik Feriesenter (@skottevikferiesenter)

Fagernes Camping

For inland Norway locations,  Fagernes Camping is one of our favorites. This award-winning campsite offers places for tents and campervans. You can also enjoy cabins and apartments set in the beautiful Valdres Nature Park. Perfect for exploring!

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Fagernes Camping (@fagernescamping)

Lillehammer Camping

In Eastern Norway, we suggest checking out  Lillehammer Camping for a gorgeous location surrounded by trees, nearby the charming town of Lillehammer. With all the necessary facilities and 250 pitches for caravans and RVs with access to power, this handy campsite is open all-year-round.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Lillehammer Camping (@lillehammercamping)

Botnen Camping

Heading north along the coast of Fjord Norway? We recommend checking out the beautiful and understated  Botnen Camping . It is located on the coast of Sognefjord around 1.5 hours drive from Bergen. This small, well-equipped camping site offers peace and quiet for your night of camping.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Botnen Camping (@botnencamping)

Get Ready for Your Unique Norway Camping Adventure!

Who’s feeling excited for their own Norway camping trip? We definitely are! Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime as you plan your very own Norway camping tour, whether you choose to pitch a tent or rent a campervan.

We can help you out with the first steps of making your dream Norway vacation a reality with our range of affordable  Norway campervan rentals . Simply choose your favorite and hit the road, ready to sleep among marvelous fjords and glistening lakes – ahh, bliss!

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Join our Adventure: Get all my insider tips for motorhoming & road trips

If you’re a fan of INCREDIBLE scenery, mountains, waterfalls, lakes and friendly people, Norway is definitely a perfect road trip destination for you, whether it’s with a motorhome, campervan, caravan or car!

Here are some of our favourite places in Norway, plus road trip and van life travel tips, including the best destinations to visit, things to do, visiting the fjords and glaciers in Norway- plus how to travel Norway on a budget!

FREE CHECKLISTS

If you’re new to touring Norway with a motorhome or campervan, you might find these checklists useful to download before you leave:

• Europe touring checklist
• Motorhome maintenance checklists
• Pre-trip checklists

10 Best places to see the Northern Lights in Europe

Motorhoming & Campervanning in Norway- your Complete Guide

Flamsbana Railway- the most beautiful train ride in the world?

Is Norway expensive to visit? Here’s everything you need to know

Steinsdalsfossen Waterfall- the waterfall you can walk behind!

Weather and Waterfalls in Norway

11 BREATHTAKING best places to see in Southern Norway

Trollstigen Road- The BEST Motorbike Road in Norway!

Driving the Longest Road Tunnel in the world!

The best campsite in Norway??

Our secret find! Motorhome camping near Preikestolen

Sverd i fjell – Swords in the Rock

What are you looking for?

10 best campervan & motorhome/rv rentals in norway.

Brimming with the most striking natural landscapes, fascinating Viking history, and the most amiable people, road tripping Norway is one of the best travel experiences we have ever had.

We spent more than a month there back in 2018, and can honestly say it's one of the most camper/motorhome-friendly countries in Europe.

With ample wild camping spots across the country. The roads are also in perfect condition, and if you do get the chance to visit in winter, then I 100% recommend it.

Just be sure to get 4WD, like we did.

What's also great is there are tonnes of great campervan and motorhome rental firms in Norway.

Located all across the country from Northern Norway to the south.

And in this guide I want to give a good overview of the very best ones around, as well as which company might offer the best vans for your needs.

Let's get started!

Travellerspoint

How to book your chosen rental

Wherever possible in this guide, I have included links below to Motorhome Republic .

These guys are the world's biggest and best campervan/motorhome comparison site, working with the top rental firms each country has to offer.

I recommend them as the first place to begin your search for a rental, and here's why:

• Immediate availability search -Top rental firms in Norway sell out months in advance, so a quick search on here will showcase which companies still have availability for your dates
• See prices side-by-side -Rather than searching for prices through a dozen different sites, Motorhome Republic give you an immediate idea of how different firms stack up price-wise

What I also love about Motorhome Republic is their Vehicle Guarantee . Meaning, if your chosen rental firm lets you down, then they will personally guarantee you another vehicle of the same quality/specification from another firm.

What's more, they will solve all the stress and hassle in arranging this . This Vehicle Guarantee is something no individual firm can offer you, so it's why I would always recommend booking through them.

Plus, coupled with their Price Promise, you know you are always getting the cheapest deal as well.

For more info, read our in-depth review of GoSee Travel (Motorhome Republic) .

1. McRent - Our top pick for Norway campervan & motorhome rental

• Pick up/drop off location/s - Oslo, Trondheim, Bergen, Bjerkvik, Nordkjosbotn, Stavanger
• Price range - $$-$$$
• Best suited for - Families and couples 
• Availability - Check here

You may notice that McRent was also our top pick in the France campervan rentals post , but it’s also here on the number one spot for a reason.

Not only is this Europe’s biggest and most popular motorhome hire, it has six depots across Norway so you can pick up and drop off the vehicle anywhere that’s convenient for you.

We’d also go for McRent if you are planning a road trip to other European countries.

Even better, their focus on sustainability is quite admirable.

They even choose their suppliers based on some specific sustainability criteria!

Vehicles on offer:

The motorhomes are 2 years old or younger, and adhere to the Euro 6 emission standard .

Each vehicle comes with everything you need for a comfortable road trip, from kitchen and heating to a bathroom.

McRent also provides a 24/7 mobility guarantee and the most impeccable hygiene measures !

Even when travelling in the current situation, you won’t have to worry about cleanliness, which can be a huge load off your shoulder.

2. Rent Easy - Best all-round choice for motorhome rental in Norway

• Pick up/drop off location/s - Oslo, Ålesund, Bodø, Kristiansand, Sarpsborg
• Price range - $-$$
• Best suited for - Couples, families, and groups

For another all-rounder campervan and motorhome rental in Norway, check out Rent Easy !

Known for its wide range of options, this company offers premium vehicles and a super easy booking system, hence its name.

Yes, you can book online or in a local station.

With over 30 depots in Norway and across Europe, they boast excellent service that is both professional and welcoming.

So if you don’t know which motorhome to choose, the team at Rent Easy will be more than happy to advise you.

From compact city models and versatile active models, to large family models, there’s something here for every kind of traveller.

All the motorhomes at Rent Easy are on average 5 months old and 2 years old at maximum. They include a kitchen, washroom, heating, bicycle rack, and navigation.

Most of them also come with an automatic satellite system, TV, and a handy rearview camera .

Plus, if you rent for 15 days or more, you can enjoy complimentary unlimited kilometres. There’s also an airport shuttle service and pet-friendly options at some depots.

Customize your motorhome even more with add-ons like bedding, camp furniture, and crockery!

3. Touring Cars - Best premium campervan & motorhome rental in Norway

• Pick up/drop off location/s - Oslo, Trondheim, Tromsø
• Best suited for - Families 

When it comes to premium motorhome services, no one does it quite like Touring Cars , which has been a leading campervan rental company since its launch in 1982 in Finland.

With personalized packages, sustainable values, and authenticity, it’s the perfect option for exploring the hidden gems of Finland.

It embraces the Finnish sense of quality and reliability, which is perfect for customer satisfaction.

It’s super easy to tailor bookings to suit your travel needs and preferences.

What is so awesome about Touring Cars is their exclusive services, which includes VIP airport transfer and complimentary guidebooks to help you make the most of your adventure.

The high-quality German vehicles that make up the fleet at Touring Cars come in a huge range.

From smaller vans for solo travellers to 6-berth motorhomes fit for a family holiday, there’s something for everyone here.

We also adore the variety of add-ons you can choose, including a brilliant ready-to-go package to take care of your camping needs .

It gives you a final cleaning, raincoats, camping equipment, and even a BBQ set!

They are also a top pick for camper rentals in Wales , showing just how far across Europe you will find these guys!

4. Auto Europe - Europe’s most reputable campervan & motorhome rental

• Pick up/drop off location/s - 15 locations, including Oslo, Trondheim, Grimstad, Narvik, Stavanger
• Best suited for - Families and couples alike

There’s little doubt to reliability when it comes to Auto Europe, one of the leading car rental services in Europe .

With over 60 years of experience and 20,000 locations in more than 180 countries, they have won a number of travel awards and nominations .

That includes Europe's Leading Car Rental Company and a Magellan Silver Award in the “Overall Luxury Car Collection” category. They are also one of our top picks for motorhome rental in the UK .

Because of the sheer size of this company, you can enjoy low rates without compromising quality .

The best thing? You can pick up and drop off in fifteen locations across Norway !

Plus, there are always some form of promotions or deals going on at Auto Europe.

Their motorhome rental in Norway includes a huge range of models that come with premium amenities. From air conditioning and heating to a kitchen, shower, and water tank.

You can opt for a compact motorhome or a larger model suitable for a family vacation.

There’s also a standard or luxury option , depending on your style of travel and preferred budget.

Most of their vehicles use manual transmission and diesel as the power source.

5. Pure Motorhomes - Best budget campervan and motorhome rental in Norway

• Pick up/drop off location/s - 13 locations, including Oslo and Bjerkvik 
• Best suited for - All types of travellers 

The link we’ve attached itself is to book through Budget Campervans, but we wanted to highlight the vehicles from Pure Motorhomes in particular.

They offer some of the best and most extensive options for road trippers on a budget in Norway .

It’s proof that not splurging on your campervan rental doesn’t mean you’re stuck with shabby choices.

As one of the leading rental motorhome suppliers in Europe, Pure Motorhomes is the perfect go-to for various and affordable motorhomes .

The fleet consists of different types of motorhomes, including three types of bus and van conversions !

So whether you’re travelling solo or with a group, there’s everything from a 2-berth to 7-berth motorhome.

You can find the exact vehicle for you!

In addition, Pure Motorhomes offer exceptional mobility assistance. From Fiat’s on-road mobility program, emergency service, to Dethleffs’ safety package.

6. Arctic Campers - First mini camper and motorhome rental in Norway

• Pick up/drop off location/s - Oslo, Tromsø
• Best suited for - Singles and couples

Want a Mini Camper to accompany your epic drive across Norway? Arctic Campers has got you covered.

They’re also the nation’s first Mini Camper and auto transmission vans provider.

Arctic Campers has two depots in Norway: Oslo and Tromsø. The second of which is the start of what we believe to be one of the world's best road trips , heading all the way across to the remote town of Hamningberg.

Alternatively, head south from Tromso, driving through most of Norway before dropping in their other location in Oslo.

But the most exciting thing is that they’re working together with a mobile sauna rental.

Yes, that means you can use your campervan to tow a trailer sauna , which can fit up to six people at once.

Having a private sauna as you park on the fjords or hunt for the Northern Lights - that’s the dream, right?

In terms of vehicles, they specialize in compact vans that are small and compact, and easy to drive.

You can find anything from the most basic camper that sleeps two to a 4x4 for your rugged adventures.

They’re also all automatic transmission !

Their campervans also drive climate-neutrally for the entirety of your road trip. This offsets any carbon emissions from the diesel and petrol fuel.

7. CoolDrive - Best customer experience in a Norway campervan & motorhome rental

• Pick up/drop off location/s - Oslo, Stavanger, Trondheim, Tromsø, Bergen, Bjerkvik, Bodo, Grimstad, Kristiansand, Nordkjosbotn
• Best suited for - Couples and families 

Many customers are beyond satisfied with the services they get from CoolDrive, a pretty popular motorhome rental in Norway.

It offers pretty sweet deals considering their new vehicles, insurance and guarantees, and an excellent track record.

Although because of the high demand of rentals in the country, we’d advise booking in advance.

The team will get back to you within 24 hours at most, which we think is pretty terrific!

Oh, and not to mention the fact that they provide pick-up stations in 10 locations .

Couples and families alike can find the perfect campervan for them here, as CoolDrive offers compact and larger options.

Most use manual transmission and come with their own shower and kitchen facilities .

For their standard insurance, it includes third-party liability and collision damage waiver (CDW) with excess.

8. Motorvana

• Pick up/drop off location/s - Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, and Tromso
• Best suited for - Any traveller

Motorvana is a private RV rental that eases and simplifies the entire booking process.

It was established back in 1996 and serves numerous countries worldwide.

The brand’s value to ensure peace of mind is great as they do offer one of the most convenient and responsive services.

Best of all, they don’t charge any credit card fee when most other companies hide a 2% cost during payment.

Motorvana has an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars , which is quite impressive.

Their vehicles can comfortably sleep between two to six people , and use manual transmission.

The price for their rental also varies depending on size, seasonality, and optional extras.

If you go for one of their luxury models, you’ll even get some premium campervan accessories , like a flat-screen TV, roof air conditioning, and a premium kitchen set while on the road!

9. Campervan Norway - Best local motorhome and camper rental service in Norway

• Pick up/drop off location/s - Oslo, Tromsø, Bergen
• Best suited for - Groups and families 

Just as its name suggests, Campervan Norway is a locally owned and operated rental for those who want to explore Norway on wheels.

Their website is super easy to navigate, and booking your perfect van is also straightforward.

Your rental price includes unlimited miles, CDW insurance, local taxes, and a very helpful 24/7 breakdown service.

Their agents can also help you pick out the best vehicle for your exact travel needs. Talk about personalized services !

Campervan Norway’s vehicles are catered more towards small families and groups , as they can sleep between four to six people each.

But it does mean you can enjoy a comfortable road trip with loved ones and have enough space to move around inside.

All the necessary amenities are covered too - from kitchen and drinking water tank, to shower and a neat sound system!

Plus, the campervans also have large windows that let you drink in the spectacular views of Norway.

10. Cabin Campers - Most unique Norway campervan & motorhome rental

• Pick up/drop off location/s - Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger

Last but surely not least, we have a unique campervan rental for those of you looking for a road trip in Norway that is unlike any other.

Cabin Campers are affordable and truly one-of-a-kind.

This local company prides itself in its authentic campervan interiors inspired by traditional Norwegian cottages.

Staying inside their vans will make you feel like you’re holidaying in a stunning cottage accommodation, but with wheels!

Better yet, you can pay a 50% deposit and wait until two weeks before your trip to pay off the rest of it.

Each campervan comes with a double bed and seating for three, as well as an advanced electrical system and water system .

Cabin Campers also offers unlimited mileage, insurance and quality maintenance.

The 2.8-meter height of the interior also means you can stand up fully when inside . It’s a huge deal when you’re planning a longer trip!

Plus, their vehicles weigh less than 3500 kilograms, which means you can simply use a regular driver’s license .

Norway Campervan & Motorhome Rentals FAQ

How much does it cost to rent a campervan in norway.

The average campervan rents for £181 per day ( check latest prices here ), which can be quite expensive compared to other European countries. We recommend booking far in advance (even up to four months!) to secure the best deal and travelling during off seasons.

Although, the exact cost for renting a campervan or motorhome in Norway depends on the vehicle size and type, when you book it, availability, as well as the company itself. So make sure to compare a few different campervan rentals to get the best price!

If you'd prefer something cheaper, there are plenty of fantastic car rentals in Norway , but you'll then need to account for accommodation costs.

Can you wild camp in Norway in a campervan?

Yes! You can wild camp when driving a campervan in Norway as it is legally allowed. The Everyman's Right allows non-motorized travellers to camp anywhere in nature, but you need to park your motorhomes on pitches or on roadsides. It’s quite a lovely law that lets locals and visitors alike to enjoy the natural gifts of Norway.

However, note that this is only for uncultivated land that isn’t fenced in and that there should be at least 150 metres of distance from any house. You also need permission to camp longer than two days.

How old do you need to be to hire a motorhome in Norway?

While the terms and conditions vary for different rental companies in Norway, most of them require the drivers to be at least 25 years old. In addition, you will need to have at least two years of driving experience. Check requirements here for top brands.

What are some tips for driving in Norway?

Norwegians are big on sticking to the speed limit, which means you need to respect this and adhere to the 90 km/h limit on highways. Don’t drive aggressively or speed!

Remember that people drive on the right side of the street and to always keep your dipped headlights on. You’ll also find toll roads in certain areas of the country, like Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger and Trondheim .

Time to plan your Norway road trip!

Now that you’ve read all that you need to know about renting a campervan or motorhome in Norway, you need to map out the rest of your adventure.

As you plan for your ultimate road trip across Norway, we have some posts you might find useful!

From the best places to visit and things to do to the most picturesque road trips you can take.

Here they are:

• Best Places To Visit In Norway
• Lofoten Islands Travel Guide
• Best Things To Do In Norway

Leave a comment

Let us know what you think.

5 million people can't be wrong

The best time to go to Norway in 2024

Mar 18, 2024 • 5 min read

The best time to visit Norway will depend on what you want to do when you get there © Everste / Getty Images

Norway is known for its spectacular landscapes and, as one of the most beautiful countries on the planet, there's no such thing as a bad time to visit.

However, certain seasons will impact the many big attractions and experiences on offer – prioritizing what you want to do and understanding these seasonal differences will be key to planning your trip.

Summer is the most popular time to visit: it has the best weather, long hours of daylight, prices are generally cheaper and everything’s open. Winter is a magical and popular time to visit if you’re on a quest to see the northern lights. And for those looking to follow their own path along quiet roads to find a Norway stripped of all tourist hype, spring and autumn may be for you.

Here's everything you need to know about picking the best time to visit for your trip to  Norway .

June to August is the best time for good weather and cheaper prices

There is no better time to visit Norway than in summer. Let’s start with the weather. This being a Scandinavian country with much of its territory within the Arctic Circle, we can’t guarantee sunshine every single day, but from June to August, clear, mild days with a piercing blue sky are the norm. This is the best time to see the fjords, the Lofoten Islands or Svalbard at their most pristine and glorious.

Summer days here seem to last forever: north of the Arctic Circle, there is at least one day every year when the sun never sets. The further north you go, the more of these days you get. Even in Norway’s south, there’s no such thing as complete darkness throughout summer as the sun’s light from just below the horizon bathes the night hours in a sepulchral glow.

Summer is, of course, high season in Norway. This can mean that everything – from all roads and campgrounds to tourist attractions like boat cruises on the fjords – gets busy. This is also when most of the festivals happen, and when the majority of locals take to the roads. But traveling at this time comes with an unexpected bonus: unlike high seasons just about everywhere else, high season in Norway means cheaper accommodation prices. While this may sound counterintuitive, the reason is simple: Norway is one of the most expensive countries on earth, and the only people traveling at other times are business travelers on expense accounts. In other words, prices drop so that tourists can afford to travel.

There is one further advantage to traveling in Norway in the summer. For much of the year, Norway’s wild landscapes are susceptible to the kind of unpredictable weather you just don’t want to get caught up in. With that in mind, the hiking season  only runs for the three summer months every year. It’s also the best (and, in some cases, the only) time for cycling, white-water rafting and whale-watching off the coast of Vesterålen .

December to February is the best time for the northern lights

Summer may open up a whole world of possibilities but the Norwegian winter has a special (and increasingly popular) call all its own. This is the time of year when the northern lights dance across the sky in great curtains and cascades of shape-shifting colored light. Truly one of the natural world’s greatest spectacles, the aurora borealis happens year-round, but Norway’s long winter nights provide the perfect conditions in which to see them.

Yes, you need clear skies, which is never something that can be guaranteed in the depths of a Norwegian winter. And you never quite know when or where they’re going to appear. But when they do, it’s the kind of experience that lingers in your memory with all of the magic of a fairy tale coming to life.

Winter is also when the polar night descends upon the country, casting it into darkness for months at a time; the sun doesn’t even appear above the horizon from late October to mid-February in Svalbard’s Longyearbyen . But seeing the country at this perspective-altering time can be almost as memorable as seeing the northern lights. If you’re lucky, you’ll experience both.

When the sun is shining in winter, as it does surprisingly often wherever daylight occurs, the snows that cover much of the country transform Norway into a land of singular and spectacular beauty. Even in the iciest conditions, most of Norway’s roads remain open throughout winter, and elsewhere Norwegians take to the paths – whether to the local shops or out into the wilderness – on cross-country skis. If you’re not inclined to join them, there’s always dog-sledding, ice hotels and snowmobiling for those looking to immerse themselves in Norway’s frozen winter world.

March to May and September to November are the best times for quiet roads

With so much going on in summer and winter, Norway falls relatively quiet during the spring and fall months. And therein lies the appeal of visiting at this time. Beyond city limits, Norway’s roads are quieter by a near-exponential magnitude. It’s also easier to come by your favorite hotel booking, while weekend accommodation prices can be the same as those seen otherwise only in summer.

If you time your visit right and visit in late spring (May, for example) or early autumn (September), you might also enjoy some of the benefits of summer – cheaper hotels, hiking trails still open – but without the crowds to share them with.

And yet, perhaps the greatest benefit of traveling at this time is something less tangible. In many ways, this is an ideal time to observe Norway, to look through a window into the world of local life as it goes quietly about its business. It can be a far (and deeply satisfying) cry from the world of busy tourist attractions and carefree summer months.

This article was first published April 2021 and updated March 2024

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