Planning a journey to Norway can be somewhat overwhelming, especially when you intend to spend ample time camping. Hence, I thought it appropriate to share my Norway packing list with all the essentials when preparing my 70L backpack for an extended trek through the wilderness.
Naturally, this list isn't exclusively for backpackers. If you’re embarking on an adventure with your camper van and plan to enjoy the great outdoors, it’s highly advisable to bring along many of the items below. As you may already know, Norway is a land of remarkable diversity, offering a wide range of conditions.
There's a saying that you can experience four seasons in one day here, and there's a lot of truth to it. From the picturesque, sunny southern coast, you can drive within a few hours to the high plains of the Hardangervidda, where the temperature can drop by 15 degrees and you might still spot patches of snow. You might start your day having breakfast in a t-shirt and end it in a woollen jumper, enjoying a beer outside your camper while gazing at the peaks of Jotunheimen.
Thus, this packing list is suitable whether you're going camping or planning a road trip with your car or camper, including several day hikes to Trolltunga or Preikestolen or whatever other obscure plans you might have:
Waterproof jacket and trousers
Lightweight windbreaker and hiking trousers with moisture-wicking properties
Woolen socks with a snug fit and preferrably an extra pair
Woolen sweater or jacket, or a lightweight down jacket
Lightweight tent (I always bring one, even if I'm staying in cabins, to ensure shelter in case of unexpected weather changes)
A thin mattress or underlay to separate you from cold surfaces
Woolen mittens or gloves that retain warmth when wet
Lightweight sneakers (useful if your hiking boots get wet)
Well-worn (!!!) hiking boots to prevent blisters
Shorts and t-shirt made of wool or synthetic fibres for warmer weather
A thermos flask, both for your morning coffee and to keep river water cool during warm days
Backpack with suitable volume
Waterproof bags for food and clothes (optional rain cover)
Sleeping bag when camping. Temperatures can drop at high altitudes, even in midsummer. Better too warm then too cold.
Power banks for charging devices
First aid kit with blister plasters and sports tape
Minimal toiletries and a small/lightweight towel (preferably biodegradable toothpaste)
Toilet paper and an extra garbage bag (there are no rubbish bins in the wilderness, and leaving trash is absolutely unacceptable)
Sunglasses and factor 50 sunscreen
Insect repellent/mosquito net
Map, compass, and waterproof map case, or GPS device
Multitool and duct tape
Matches/lighter
Propane burner for cooking
A simple kettle to boil water
A cup or bowl for diners and breakfast
Compact headlamp/flashlight
Cash/debit card
DNT key and digital membership card (if you plan to stay in DNT cabins)
Provisions! It's better to have too many than too few!
As I mentioned earlier, this list serves as an indication of essential items. Naturally, the type of trip you undertake will ultimately determine what you pack. Nevertheless, I hope I have been able to assist you to some extent. Should you have any questions, please feel free to send me a message via Instagram.