Hiking tips

Must-have packing list

Please note that these lists are intended for summer hikes. If you stick to forest and/or coastal trails, you can get away with a lighter load. Remember to bring extra warm clothing if you are going any other time of the year. The lists are based on the recommendations found on the Norwegian Trekking Association’s website.

Clothing

• wool or synthetic underwear
• wool socks/stockings
• windproof jacket/anorak or all-weather jacket
• hiking trousers
• T-shirt and/or light sweater of wool or fleece
• hiking shoes or boots

In your backpack or pockets

• rain jacket (if your jacket isn’t all-weather)
• rain trousers (if your trousers aren’t all-weather)
• cap/hat
• scarf/neck warmer
• gloves/mittens
• shorts
• water
• food

Sleeping outside? Don’t forget your camping gear

• tent
• sleeping bag
• sleeping pad
• portable cooking stove, fuel, and cookwear
• matches
• plate, cutlery, and cup

Stay safe

Norway is an incredible place to explore, with untamed mythical landscapes, mountains, valleys, and fjords. Before you enter the outdoors, get familiar with the nine simple rules of the Norwegian mountain code to help you stay safe.

1. Plan your trip and inform others about the route you have selected.
2. Adapt the planned routes according to ability and conditions.
3. Pay attention to the weather and the avalanche warnings.
4. Be prepared for bad weather and frost, even on short trips.
5. Bring the necessary equipment so you can help yourself and others.
6. Choose safe routes. Recognize avalanche terrain and unsafe ice.
7. Use a map and a compass. Always know where you are.
8. Don’t be ashamed to turn around.
9. Conserve your energy and seek shelter if necessary.

Read more about safety in the mountains

What to wear

Expect the unexpected. This may be the most important advice when packing for an outdoor adventure. Regardless of the season and the weather when you set off, remember that the weather can change quickly – especially in the mountains.

• Wear proper hiking boots – regular trainers doesn’t have a good enough grip for hiking, especially if you are going up in the mountains.
• Dress in layers to make it easier to control your temperature.
• Make sure that the outermost layer is wind and waterproof.
• As the Norwegians say, wool is cool. As opposed to cotton and polyester, wool breathes, isolates, keeps off moisture, and is temperature regulating and self-cleaning. Fleece is another good material, especially for winter trips.
• Use sunscreen – the sun can be deceptively strong, even in the winter and when it’s overcast or windy.