Norway's Southern Fjords and Pulpit Rock

Practical information about Scandinavian Hotels

Beds and room types. Hotel rooms across Scandinavia are typically furnished with twin beds that can be pushed together to form a double. Single rooms tend to be smaller than doubles and usually have a shower rather than a bath. Purpose-built triple or family rooms are uncommon. If three people are sharing, expect a standard double room with an extra bed added, which means noticeably less space than a purpose-built triple would offer.

Luggage. Porters are rare at Scandinavian hotels. You will generally carry your own bags, so pack with this in mind, particularly on itineraries with frequent hotel changes.

Wi-fi. Free wi-fi is standard across the vast majority of Scandinavian hotels at all price points.

Tea and coffee. Unlike hotels in many other parts of the world, Scandinavian accommodation at the 3-star level rarely provides in-room tea and coffee facilities. There may be a kettle, but often nothing to go with it. Many hotels do offer complimentary tea and coffee in the reception area or lobby, so it is worth asking on arrival. If this matters to you, it is worth checking with us beforehand or bringing a small supply of your own.

Lunch in winter. On itineraries that include lunch during the winter months, expect a warm soup with bread rather than a full cooked meal. This is entirely typical across the region and often very good.

Remote hotels in Lapland. At more remote properties in the far north, the hotel or lodge where you are staying will be your only realistic dining option for dinner. This is entirely normal and nothing to be concerned about. Menus are typically limited to one or two main course choices, but the food is generally home-cooked and reflects the local landscape and ingredients well.

Laundry. Self-service washing machines and dryers are typically located in the basement. If you are staying in apartment-style accommodation and cannot find them, ask at reception.

Practical budgeting information before your departure to Norway

Budget surprises

Norway has a few items that typically surprise first-time visitors. Alcohol and luxury goods are heavily taxed, so prices are higher than you might expect. On the other hand, everyday necessities such as bread and milk are taxed at a lower rate and are generally good value. Eating and drinking out, particularly in restaurants and bars, is where most travellers feel the difference most acutely.

Alcohol import allowance into Norway

If you enjoy a drink, it is worth bringing your full duty-free allowance into Norway when you arrive. Alcohol bought in Norway is significantly more expensive than in most other countries, and there are many lovely parks, hotel terraces and balconies where you can enjoy what you have brought with you.

Current allowances for travellers entering Norway are set by Norwegian Customs. For the most up-to-date figures, check the official allowances at toll.no before you travel, as these are subject to change. As a general guide, the current duty-free quota for spirits, wine and beer follows a tiered system that allows you to mix and match within set limits. Note that beverages with more than 60% alcohol by volume cannot be imported at all, and you must be over 20 to import spirits above 22% ABV.

It is illegal to bring more than the permitted allowance into Norway without declaring it and paying duty. Customs checks do occur, particularly at ferry and land border crossings.

A few other things worth knowing

One thing that catches many travellers by surprise is the cost of razor blades. Good quality razor blades in Norway are expensive compared to most countries, so it is worth stocking up before you arrive.

Travel Insurance and Safety

Travel insurance is compulsory for all tours with 50 Degrees North. The safety of our travellers, staff and operators is a major priority of 50 Degrees North. With an operational office in Norway, 50 Degrees North has access to an up-to-the-minute flow of information regarding the countries we work in. We are also in regular contact with the various operators we use. Their in-depth knowledge and understanding of their various areas is vital.