TIPS

Tips 1 – Families with kids

Norway is an incredible destination for families. It is safe, scenic, and filled with opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Whether you are exploring fjords, spotting wildlife, or enjoying quiet evenings by a lake, this country offers the perfect setting for creating meaningful memories together.

Safe and Stress-Free
Norway consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world. This allows families to travel with peace of mind, knowing they are in a secure and welcoming environment.

Activities Kids Will Love
Across the country, you will find a wide variety of activities that appeal to children. From zoos and aquariums to playgrounds and climbing parks, there is always something to keep young travelers entertained. Many towns also offer free outdoor play areas and natural swimming spots, ideal for spontaneous breaks along the way.

Outdoor Adventures
Nature is accessible and inviting throughout Norway. Families can enjoy gentle walks, forest trails, lake paddling, and peaceful camping spots. Many areas have stroller-friendly paths and shorter hikes that are perfect for younger children.

Learning Along the Way
Norway offers engaging educational experiences without feeling like a classroom. Explore Viking museums, hands-on science centers, and open-air historical sites where kids can learn through touch and experience.

Family-friendly facilities
Hotels, restaurants, and public attractions are well prepared for families. You will often find children’s menus, high chairs, changing facilities, and welcoming staff who are used to hosting guests of all ages.

Planning a Road Trip with Kids?
We have created a selection of suggested itineraries designed with families in mind. These include shorter driving distances, time for breaks, and recommendations for activities suited for children.
Take a look at our family-friendly trip ideas for inspiration here.

Tips 2 – Food and beverages

Norway is an ideal destination for anyone who enjoys high-quality food, local ingredients, and culinary experiences rooted in both tradition and innovation. From rustic countryside meals to modern tasting menus, the country has something to offer every food lover.

Fresh, Local, and Seasonal
Norway’s clean environment provides an abundance of fresh ingredients. Seafood comes straight from cold, clear waters, while meats and vegetables are often sourced locally and produced organically. The result is food that is both nutritious and full of natural flavor.

A True Seafood Nation
Norway is world-famous for its seafood. Salmon, cod, herring, and shellfish are central to many traditional and modern dishes. Whether grilled over a campfire or served in a fine restaurant, seafood in Norway delivers a fresh and unforgettable taste of the coast.

Traditional Norwegian Dishes
The country’s culinary heritage reflects its geography and history. Classic meals like “Fårikål” (lamb and cabbage stew), “Lapskaus” (hearty meat stew), and “Rømmegrøt” (sour cream porridge) offer insight into how Norwegians have cooked and eaten for generations.

Modern Nordic Cuisine
Norway is part of the New Nordic food movement, which focuses on sustainability and seasonal ingredients. Across the country, you will find creative chefs reinventing traditional recipes using modern techniques. Many restaurants offer tasting menus built around what is available in nature right now.

Cozy Cafés and Simple Pleasures
Norwegians love their coffee, and café culture is strong in both cities and smaller towns. You will find inviting spots to sit down with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, a slice of cake, or a classic open-faced sandwich called “smørbrød”. It is a perfect way to pause and take in the surroundings.

Craft Beverages with Local Character
In recent years, Norway has seen a boom in craft breweries, cider houses, and small distilleries. Many of these use local ingredients such as berries, honey, or herbs. Visitors can explore this scene by joining tastings, visiting local producers, or attending one of the many regional festivals.

Food Markets and Festivals
All year round, Norway hosts events that celebrate local food culture. Farmers’ markets, seafood festivals, and food fairs are excellent ways to meet local producers and taste regional specialties. These experiences bring you closer to the culture, the land, and the people behind the food.

Whether you are a curious traveler or a passionate foodie, Norway invites you to taste its landscape, traditions, and creativity, one meal at a time.

Tips 3 – Traffic Rules in Norway

Driving in Norway is generally safe, smooth, and scenic. However, it’s important to know and follow the traffic rules to avoid fines and ensure a pleasant journey. Here are the key things to keep in mind when driving a vehicle, including campervans, in Norway.

Drive on the Right
In Norway, we drive on the right side of the road and overtake on the left. Overtaking on the right is not allowed unless traffic is organized in lanes (for example in city traffic or on motorways with multiple lanes).

Speed limits
Speed limits vary depending on the road type and location.
Unless signs indicate otherwise:

In cities and towns: 50 km/h (31 mph)
On country roads: 80 km/h (50 mph)
On highways: 90–110 km/h (56-68 mph)

Always pay attention to signs. Speeding fines in Norway are high, and enforcement is strict.

Seat Belts and Child Safety
Everyone in the vehicle must wear a seat belt, both front and back. Children must be secured in a child seat or booster appropriate for their age, weight, and height. This is taken seriously by Norwegian police.

Alcohol Limit
Norway has one of the strictest drink-driving laws in the world. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.02%. Even one glass of wine or beer may put you over the limit. Random roadside checks are common, and violations lead to large fines and loss of license.

Right of Way
At intersections without signs or signals, vehicles coming from your right have priority. However, most intersections in cities are marked with signs that override this rule, so keep an eye out.

Roundabouts
Roundabouts are common in Norway. Enter to the right and drive counterclockwise. Vehicles already inside the roundabout always have the right of way.

Pedestrians and Cyclists
Drivers must yield to pedestrians at all marked crosswalks. Be cautious of cyclists, especially in cities where many roads have designated bike lanes. When overtaking a cyclist, leave safe distance.

Mobile Phone Use
Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal. Only hands-free use is allowed. Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of accidents in Norway, so stay focused on the road.

Headlights Always On
In Norway, headlights must be on at all times, regardless of daylight or weather. Automatic daytime running lights are not always enough, so check your vehicle’s lighting.

Winter Driving
Winter conditions can be demanding, especially in mountainous areas. From November 1st to April 15th, vehicles must be equipped with winter tires. (a Happycamper is always equipped and safe).
Studded tires are allowed in this period, and highly recommended in icy regions. Roads are generally well-maintained, but be prepared for sudden weather changes.

Tolls and Ferries
Most major roads in Norway have toll stations, and many ferries (especially in Western Norway) are part of the road network. Tolls and ferry costs are automatically registered when using our campervans, with a small device in the front shield called “Autopass”, og “Skyttelpass”.
These charges will be deducted from your deposit after your trip. You will receive a full overview of the tolls and ferry expenses used during your rental period.

Driving in Norway can be a wonderful part of your journey. The roads are well-kept, the scenery is stunning, and the rules are designed to keep everyone safe.
Take your time, follow the signs, and enjoy the ride.

Tips 4 -What to bring in your luggage

When packing for a trip with a car in Norway, it’s essential to consider the diverse landscapes and weather conditions you may encounter. Here’s a comprehensive list of items to pack in your luggage.

Clothing for all weather
Norway’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers that can be easily added or removed. Include waterproof jackets, warm sweaters, long pants, shorts, t-shirts, hats, gloves, and sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots.

Rain gear
A compact umbrella and waterproof ponchos or rain jackets are essential, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.

Comfortable footwear
In addition to hiking boots, pack comfortable shoes or sandals for walking around towns and cities.

Swimwear
If you’re visiting during the summer months, don’t forget to pack swimwear for enjoying Norway’s lakes, fjords, and coastal areas.

Travel documents
Bring your passport or ID card, driver’s license, car registration, and insurance documents. Also, carry printed or digital copies of your accommodation reservations, itinerary, and emergency contacts.

Navigation tools
While GPS navigation systems are convenient, it’s wise to have backup maps, guidebooks, and a physical compass in case of technology failures or lack of signal in remote areas.

First aid kit: Pack a compact first aid kit containing bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, motion sickness tablets, insect repellent, sunscreen, and any necessary medications.
We always have forst Aid kit in our cars but it can be a good idea that you also bring your ovn personal one that might include other medications that our kits have.

Personal hygiene items
Don’t forget essentials such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, and any other personal care products you may need.

Electronic devices
Bring chargers for your phone, camera, and other electronic devices. Consider a power bank for charging on the go.

Entertainment
Pack books, magazines, travel games, or portable electronic devices for entertainment during downtime.

Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated by bringing a reusable water bottle that you can refill at drinking fountains or taps along your journey.

Snacks
Keep energy levels up with snacks like nuts, granola bars, fruit, and trail mix, especially if you’re traveling through remote areas with limited food options.

Reusable shopping bags
Norway is environmentally conscious, so bring reusable shopping bags for groceries and souvenirs.

By packing these essential items, you’ll be well-prepared for a memorable and enjoyable trip exploring the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Norway.