Weather and expectations

One of my best and most important tips for traveling in Norway has always been the same: lower your expectations and have a positive attitude. Take things as they come and meet problems with an open mind. For instance, an experience can quickly be colored by how you have envisioned it beforehand. It's easy to be blinded by beautiful glossy images from adventurous places that you have seen online and assume you will be seeing the same view. A winter trip in Norway can be a dream, with stunning landscapes, snow-covered mountains, and the chance to see the northern lights dancing across the sky. However, Norwegian winter is also known for its unpredictable weather, and there may be many days when the weather doesn’t cooperate.

In coastal areas, you might experience mild days with rain, while in the inland and mountain areas, it’s often cold, snowy, and occasionally extreme. Wind, snowstorms, and temperatures well below freezing are common. This means you need to stay flexible and adjust your plans according to the weather...

Be realistic with your planning

The most important thing is to stay flexible and adapt your itinerary to the weather forecast. Example: ff you're dreaming of exploring Lofoten in the winter, but as you get closer to the trip the forecast says rain and wind - have a backup plan if possible. Maybe it's full on winter and cotton candy skies in the fjords down south?

Pack (and dress) for all kinds of weather

To enjoy your trip no matter the weather, it’s smart to dress in layers. Start with a wool base layer to stay warm even if it gets wet, followed by an insulating mid-layer, and finish with a windproof and waterproof outer jacket. A good pair of gloves, a hat, and wool socks are also essential. Remember sturdy, waterproof shoes, especially if you plan on hiking in the woods or mountains. Check out my packing list for what to bring!

Check the weather forecast and local web cameras

The weather can change within minutes, and what started as a clear day can quickly turn into a snowstorm. The YR app provides detailed weather information and is reliable for both short- and long-term forecasts. The Windy app is more detailed with things like cloud coverage and new snow alert. But don't be too caught up on checking it all the time, you can also just wake up and look out of the window :)

"What if the weather is just bad?"

You'll most likely encounter a few days of “bad” weather on a winter trip in Norway, but it’s all about perspective and planning.

Dark and brown days can be quite common, especially along the northern coast. The good thing is that it changes so fast. Even if it rains sideways one day, you might wake up to full winter and sunshine the next. So my best advice is to have enough time at your destination to hopefully catch a few great days.

A few things to do on cloudy days:

• Take a scenic train ride. Raumabanen, Flåmbanen and Bergensbanen are beautiful routes!

• Ice dip and sauna

• Hot chocolate and cinnamon buns, of course

• Local and second hand shopping. Maybe you'll find your new favorite knitted sweater?

• Knit... or you can make it yourself :)

• Go on a stormy (but safe) hike. Fresh air always feels good. Just make sure to wear the right clothes