What to wear in Norway

What to Wear in Norway

Top style tips for Norway

  • Norwegians' dress is generally casual but neat and clean; sports and outdoor gear are common away from the cities.
  • Long pants, long-sleeved tops and boots are good to pack all year round – with extra warmer layers including sweaters, fleeces and knitwear for the winter.
  • For extra warmth pack some long thermal underwear – you'll be grateful you did.
  • light wool is a good choice to wear against your skin as it naturally helps to regulate your body temperature. It keeps you warm in the cold, wicks away moisture when it's hot, and doesn't retain odours – even after prolonged wear.
  • Remember to pack your sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection) as the sun can be strong even when the temperature is cold.
  • And take sunglasses as the sunrays reflect from the white snow and off the water of the lakes and fjords.
  • You may also wish to take something to protect your face and lips from the cold dry air. Children's faces in particular should be protected by using plenty of lip balm and clothing such as balaclava hats.
  • If it's likely to be snowing when you plan to visit, pack snow goggles – they really will help.
  • When hiking, wear sturdy footwear and always carry a snack, drink, warm clothing etc – and don't forget your camera!
  • Norwegians are really into woollen clothing, so with knitwear you will fit right in.
  • If you are looking for a highly versatile travel jacket to bring along we highly recommend the SCOTTeVEST range. Their range of jackets have been specifically designed with traveling in mind and include RFID security (to protect your passport information), 23 secure pockets and personal connectivity integration.

Pack for the weather

  • In summer (June, July, August) pack a range of layers for all weather conditions – warm and cold, wet and dry.
  • Sunny days in summer can be pleasantly warm – enough for shorts and t-shirts if you're not too far north. But the weather can change quickly, so always be prepared with a sweater and raincoat to hand – especially if you're venturing further afield on walks or hikes.
  • April and August are mosquito high times – make sure you pack insect/mosquito repellent then.
  • The winter months of November, December, January, February and March are freezing cold and, as well as layers, you need to pack a thick coat, gloves, warm hat and scarf, as well as really good boots with soft rubber soles.
  • It's important that you get soft rubber soles because even medium soles get really hard in the freezing cold. Make sure too that they have large spaces between the tracks, or the snow will get stuck in them and make them very slippery.
  • It rains throughout the year, so pack a waterproof jacket or light raincoat whenever you visit.
  • We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂

Shoes to pack for Norway

  • If you plan to dine in more up-market restaurants or hotels pop in a smarter outfit and shoes.
  • Remember a few well-chosen pieces of costume jewelry will transform any outfit.
  • And a pashmina is a versatile piece that will dress up any outfit too.

 

Clothing tips for women

  • If you plan to dine in more up-market restaurants or hotels pop in a smarter outfit and shoes.
  • Remember a few well-chosen pieces of costume jewelry will transform any outfit.
  • And a pashmina is a versatile piece that will dress up any outfit too.

Clothing tips for men

  • There are no specific things to bring to your attention, check out our packing list for our suggested capsule wardrobe.
  • For great versatile travel jackets with multiple pockets including RFID security options, we love the SCOTTeVEST range.

Regions of Norway

  • If cruising the fjords, any sunlight makes it incredibly bright so sunglasses are essential if you want to see the fabulous sights in comfort. It's also likely to be very windy out on the water so you'll need a sweater, fleece or coat, and perhaps a secure hat or hair band if you have long hair.
  • Bergen is known as the wettest city in Europe, so go prepared!

Other things to pack

  • Everything is expensive so make sure you pack everything you think you will need.
  • If you're heading to see the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights), remember your camera!
  • A lightweight day sack or beach bag will come in handy to carry your sightseeing essentials.
  • If you tend to buy bottled water, consider carrying a LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle – fill up from any source and get clean, safe drinking water without wasting plastic bottles.
  • To use electrical gadgets you may need a travel adapter plug, and also a step down voltage converter if your devices are not designed for European voltage (230V).
  • Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home!  Norwegian knitwear is a very popular buy, and although it is expensive there is a fabulous choice of high quality items which will last you for years.  Visitors can reclaim the VAT from larger purchases when they depart the country so keep your receipts.

 

Community photos of Norway