Trip Planning
The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure.
The full Guide covers all 103 highlights,
ranked, mapped & put into context.
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Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus.
Travel Essentials
Norway doesn’t have specific vaccination requirements for travelers. However, ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date, like MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and DPT (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus). Consider a flu shot, especially if traveling in winter. If you plan outdoor activities, a tick-borne encephalitis vaccine might be worth considering. Always check current travel advisories for the latest info.
vaccination requirementsWhen I first started traveling, I often spent part of my first day in a new country hunting for a local SIM card. While this can still be slightly cheaper, it also takes time and planning.
These days, it's much simpler to install an eSIM before leaving home. Once you arrive in Norway, you can activate it immediately and have mobile data from the moment you land — which is especially useful for ordering transport or navigating away from busy airports.
There are many providers nowadays, and price differences are usually small. I personally go with Airalo, as it offers excellent network coverage throughout the country and strong global coverage, so you can manage multiple countries from a single app.
Get your e-sim for NorwayCulture & Customs
Norwegians value personal space and quiet. It’s polite to keep noise levels down, especially on public transport. Always remove shoes when entering someone’s home. Punctuality is crucial—arrive on time for any appointment or social event.
For LGBTQ+ travelers, Norway is generally welcoming and progressive. Public displays of affection won’t usually raise eyebrows. Women can travel safely alone, but it’s wise to take the usual precautions when out at night.
Do respect nature and follow ”Allemannsretten” — the right to roam, but leave no trace. Don’t forget that tipping is not expected; service charges are usually included in bills.
Trying traditional food is always a great way to experience the culture. Here are some must-try dishes for Norway.
- Fårikål: A traditional lamb and cabbage stew, often considered Norway’s national dish. It’s simple, hearty, and typically enjoyed during the autumn. This dish is cherished for its comforting flavors and cultural roots in traditional Norwegian cooking.
- Rakfisk: Fermented fish, usually trout, that’s been salted and left to ferment for a few months. It’s an acquired taste, but it’s an essential part of Norwegian food culture, especially in the lead-up to Christmas.
- Brunost: A brown, caramelized whey cheese that’s more sweet than savory. It’s a staple on Norwegian breakfast tables and is unique to the region, making it a must-try for travelers.
- Kjøttkaker: Norwegian meatballs made from minced meat, often served with potatoes, peas, and gravy. These are a comforting home-cooked meal with a taste of everyday Norwegian life.
- Lutefisk: Dried fish (usually cod) rehydrated in a lye solution before cooking. It’s a traditional dish served during the Christmas season, known for its unique preparation and texture.
Yes, the tap water in Norway is safe to drink, and locals drink it without a second thought. It’s recommended for tourists as well, so no need to spend extra on bottled water. Just bring a reusable bottle, and you’ll be good to go.
The main language in Norway is
Norwegian. Backpacking is way more rewarding if you know a bit of the local language, so I'd suggest brushing up on the basics just in case your Norwegian skills have become a bit rusty.
Want to understand locals better?The complete Travel Guide for Norway includes 52 essential words and phrases — greetings, thank-yous, ordering food, transport, numbers, and common local expressions you'll actually hear.
Get your local basic phrases 👉
Get the Travel Guide - is widely spoken in Norway, making it relatively easy for travelers to communicate. Most Norwegians are proficient in English, with many speaking it fluently. This is largely due to the country’s strong emphasis on English education in schools, as well as the influence of English-language media, such as films, music, and television.
In urban areas and popular tourist destinations, you will find that most people, including service staff in hotels, restaurants, and shops, can converse comfortably in English. Even in more rural regions, many Norwegians, especially the younger generation, have a good command of the language.
While English is commonly understood, it’s always appreciated when visitors make an effort to learn a few basic Norwegian phrases. Overall, travelers can expect minimal language barriers, allowing for a more enjoyable and seamless experience exploring Norway’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.
Money & Payments
The local currency of Norway is NOK (kr).
ATM Access: You’re covered pretty much everywhere, even in remote areas. Just make sure your card’s got international access. Look for ATMs with “Minibank” on them.
Cash vs. Card: Cards are king in Norway. Even small purchases like a coffee or a bus ticket can be paid with a card. Carry a small amount of cash for emergencies or tiny vendors that might not take cards, but don’t overdo it.
Currency: Forget dollars or euros; Norwegian kroner (NOK) is what you need. Most places won’t accept anything else.
Card Acceptance: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. Amex and Diners Club, not so much. A contactless card will make your life easier.
Exchanging Money: Skip the exchange counters at airports—rates aren’t great. If you need to exchange cash, head to a bank in town. Better yet, just withdraw NOK from an ATM.
Norway’s tipping culture is pretty relaxed; it’s not expected but appreciated. If you receive exceptional service in restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip is nice. Taxis don’t require tipping, but you can round up the fare if you want.
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Over the years, I've learned the importance of packing minimally. It's so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you're headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
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Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.