Norway is often ranked as one of the most expensive countries in the world – no doubt it is (2nd country with the highest cost of living). A cup of coffee can set you back the price of a full meal elsewhere. But this should never scare you away from experiencing its breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and vibrant cities. The good news is that a trip to Norway on a budget is entirely possible with proper planning and a few savvy tips.
Check this article out, too: 5 Best Norway Travel Guide Book List For Your 2025 Trip
Whether you want to chase the Northern Lights, cruise through majestic fjords, do whale watching (although this is a bit hard on a budget – check my blog post about it), or explore the cultural gems of Oslo, you can enjoy an affordable Norway vacation without missing out on the magic this Nordic paradise offers. Simple tips and tricks like staying outside the city centers, selecting hostels if you are young and traveling alone or as a couple, or simply camping outside (on a tent or with an RV) are great tips. But there are small things that you may not know, like how Norway’s allemannsretten lets you camp for free in many spots. Once you add spots where you can camp out in nature for free to your budget-friendly Norway itinerary – that changes the game.
I want to give you a rundown on how to see Norway on a budget and still see all the majestic beauties the country offers. Here are seven tips for an affordable vacation in Norway.
Planning Your Travel to Norway on a Budget
Traveling to Norway on a budget is possible with the right planning. But what should that plan look like? What kind of things should you look out for, and what do you need to be mentally prepared for? After all, it won’t be a lavish trip where you don’t need to think about anything else. It starts from day one – the planning. Start by choosing affordable Norway vacation ideas that fit your interests, whether it’s hiking, fjord cruising, or exploring charming towns. To stretch your budget further, opt for a budget-friendly Norway itinerary with free attractions, scenic routes, and affordable accommodations like cabins or hostels. I’ll get down to these later.
Then comes the booking part. You should book early and book for shoulder seasons. This means off-season, the beginning of spring, early fall, or even winter if you like cold and snow. It also means fewer people around. This makes your trip more enjoyable.
Try to use apps to find bookings and create itineraries like Entur. Opt for public transportation rather than renting a car or taxi. Subway or train tickets cost between $3 and $5. In Oslo, it’s generally the best and the cheapest. These are just the main things – let’s go deeper into them.
1- Travel During Off-Peak Seasons
Traveling to Norway during off-peak seasons can save you a ton of money. Flight tickets and hotels drop by more than 50% in certain places between summer and winter. Late spring and early autumn have fewer tourists and lower prices. Ticket prices for trains, like the Eurail Pass, also drop during these times. Traveling off-peak means less crowded places and more time to explore. You can enjoy Norway’s fjords and autumn colors without the rush. It’s a great way to see this beautiful country without spending much. Also, many people may miss this, but winter in Norway is exceptional. A ton of snow makes those beautiful fjords, little towns, and anything in between more beautiful. Of course, it means less time spent outdoors, but if you stay at special local places, you can enjoy the cozy atmosphere to the best of your ability.
2- Affordable Accommodation
I don’t need to explain why choosing affordable accommodation options is important for a budget-friendly Norway travel itinerary and exploring Norway on a budget. The important bit is what kind of affordable accommodation you can choose. In Norway – or Scandinavia – it’s more important because there are too many options. Don’t get lost in them!
Local Homestays
Sometimes, locals in Norway open their doors to tourists. This could be opening up one of their rooms on Airbnb or simply renting out a hut in a forest they don’t use in winter or fall. When I say this, I don’t mean those overpriced Airbnb apartments – no. I mean the real, authentic ones. Airbnb is still a great choice, but you can also look for local alternatives on Google. Booking also has some glamping options.
Couchsurfing and Housesitting
Couchsurfing is an online platform where people can open their homes for free to travelers who need accommodation. It’s perfect for those on a tight budget. It lets you stay with hosts for free and learn from locals. Housesitting is another option, where you take care of a home while the owners are away. Check Facebook groups or specific websites to see if any housesitting options are available.
Camping and Cabins
Norway’s beautiful outdoors make camping in Norway a great choice. On top of that, the “allemannsretten” lets you camp for free in Norway for up to two days. For a more comfortable stay, try campsites with indoor facilities. Renting cabins through Vrbo can also save you money. They often have kitchens, so you can cook and eat in.
Join the Norwegian Trekking Association for Discounted Prices
If you love hiking or nature, join the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT). DNT is Norway’s biggest hiking and outdoor activity organization. It was created to help tourism and develop it in Norway. So they are your friend! It can be a smart budget move. Membership gives you access to over 500 cabins across Norway at lower prices. These cabins range from simple huts to fully equipped lodges. They offer many options for different adventures. This way, you can enjoy Norway’s stunning beauty and culture without breaking the bank.
Spend More Time in Nature
Exploring Norway on a budget has many levels to it. Spending as much time as possible in nature is the most useful and budget-friendly. You can not only camp anywhere you want (as long as you are at least 150 meters away from a habituated place), but nature is also just amazing. Even if you are not on a budget, it’s a must-experience anyway.
Friluftsliv and Allemannsretten
Friluftsliv is a style of life Norwegians (or Scandinavians) follow. It means “open-air living” and promotes a nature-connected lifestyle. It makes your adventure in nature much better and saves money. Allemannsretten, or the right to roam, lets you freely explore public lands. You can hike, cycle, and camp without paying entry fees.
National Parks
Norway’s national parks are a must-see for nature lovers. Places like Jotunheimen and Rondane have excellent trails and views. These parks are full of plants and animals, perfect for hiking and picnics. They offer a chance to see Norway’s beauty without spending much. It’s a great way to enjoy your trip and save money.
Affordable Food
When in Norway, managing your food budget is key. But how are you going to manage that? What tips can you use? There are some – from cooking your own meals to eating at stores that offer discounts after a particular hour every day. You’ll need to do some research.
Cook Your Own
Undoubtedly, cooking is the best option to save money on food. If this will be your go-to in your trips, you need to select accommodation with a kitchen. Staying with locals, in hostels, or simply a tent with a cooker will do the trick. While shopping, try to get foods that are a lot in the local area, like Norwegian salmon or simple dairy stuff, cheese, milk, and so on. Buying items near their expiration date can save up to 70%. The “Too Good To Go” app is also a great way to get food at a lower price. It’s a fantastic budget hack for Norway.
Go for Local Food
If you can’t or don’t want to cook, the next best option is to go for local, non-touristy, and small places that offer local and real Norwegian food. Since they source locally, their costs will be lower, and because they serve the local community, their prices will not be touristy. Local markets are also good spots for fresh produce and seafood. This way, you can enjoy Norway’s food scene without spending much. Fast food like hot dogs from 7-Eleven are also just €2.50 each.
Getting Around in Norway on a Budget
With the country’s vast public transport system, getting around in Norway on a budget is easy. Even if you are in Tromso, Trondheim, Lofoten (I have itinerary articles on all these three cities, click on the name to check them out!), or somewhere remote, you will have some sort of public transportation to travel to and from the city. You can take buses, trains, or ferries. These options are budget-friendly and offer beautiful views of Norway’s landscapes.
Public Transportation
Norway’s public transport is both affordable and convenient. Travelers can buy passes for unlimited travel in certain areas. This is a great way to explore Norway on a budget. These passes come in different time lengths, like 24, 48, or 72 hours. The Bergen Card and Oslo Pass are great examples. They offer discounts and free entry to many attractions and museums. If you’re staying longer and will travel constantly, you may also consider renting an electric vehicle. It’s a green and cost-effective travel choice. Norway has many electric charging stations, so your trip won’t be interrupted.
Free or Low-Cost Example Activities
You can enjoy Norway’s beautiful nature and culture without spending a lot. That’s because there are many free or low-cost activities. Hiking, catching the Northern Lights, visiting national parks, or simply going to the beach. There are many free or low-cost activities to try.
Hiking and Outdoor Adventures
Norway has over 100 hiking routes across its fjords, coastal towns, and mountains. It’s an endless opportunity with amazing views! Hiking is a great way to see Norway’s stunning nature. Plus, it’s free. You can walk along the coast or climb mountains. Norway’s *Right to Roam* (Allemannsretten) lets you camp almost anywhere, as long as you’re 150 meters from private land. You can use that and spend nights at nearby hiking routes or fjords. For amazing views, try hiking in Jotunheimen National Park or near Preikestolen.
Museums and Attractions With Free or Discounted Entry
Many museums and attractions in Norway have free or discounted entry on certain days. In Oslo, the Oslo Pass is a great deal. It gives you free entry to many places and includes public transport. Don’t miss the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History or the Viking Ship Museum. They’re both worth a visit.
Northern Lights Hunting on a Budget
Seeing the Northern Lights is an unforgettable experience. You can watch it for free in northern areas like Tromsø in winter. To save money, be patient and wait for a clear night. Spend nights out camping in a tent or with your campervan. Combine the right to roam with a free activity, like you can with hiking!
Conclusion
Traveling to Norway doesn’t have to be expensive. With some planning and smart choices, you can see its beauty without spending a lot. You can explore national parks, enjoy the calm of fjords, or see the Northern Lights—all on a budget. By being frugal and using smart travel tips, your dream of a cheap Norway trip can come true. This means you can enjoy the country’s wonders without breaking the bank.
Planning your trip is all about strategy: pick what you like the most, book early, learn about the country’s rules (e.g., The right to roam in Norway gives you free access to accommodation), and you’ll be golden. Norway is no exception. Join the DNT, stay at locals’ houses, eat local food or cook your own, and, more importantly, see the fantastic nature of Norway. The last one is the easiest to do on a budget.
FAQ
What is the best time to travel to Norway on a budget?
The best time to visit Norway on a budget is during the off-peak seasons. Late spring or early autumn are great times. You’ll find cheaper accommodations and activities, and there will be fewer tourists.
How can I save on accommodation in Norway?
To save on accommodation, consider local homestays or Couchsurfing. Housesitting and camping are also cost-effective options. The Norwegian Trekking Association offers discounts on cabins and facilities.
What affordable food options are available in Norway?
Cooking your own meals with local ingredients is a smart choice. Buy fresh produce and seafood at local markets and stores. Eating at local eateries instead of tourist spots can also save you money.
Are there budget-friendly ways to get around Norway?
Yes! Public transportation like buses, trains, and ferries are quite affordable, and most have amazing views. Travel passes offer unlimited travel in specific zones, making it a budget-friendly way to explore.
What are some free or low-cost activities in Norway?
Norway has many free or low-cost activities. Hiking, cycling, and camping are great options. Many museums and attractions offer free or discounted entry on certain days. You can also see the Northern Lights for free in winter.
Can I affordably see the Northern Lights in Norway?
Absolutely! Northern regions like Tromsø offer free Northern Lights viewing in winter. Visit during off-peak times to avoid crowds and high costs.
What is friluftsliv, and how does it help with budget travel?
Friluftsliv, or “open-air living,” encourages outdoor activities. It promotes free or low-cost activities like hiking, cycling, and camping. This way, you can enjoy nature without spending much.